New to the Town

Africa

Hi All,

I have recently just arrived in Fort Lauderdale. I am all the way from South Africa. I have just finished my studies down there and am travelling.

Brought my fly gear along. Its an Orvis Clearwater 5wt rod and reel.

I am wanting to get stuck into some fishing, however I have no idea where to go.

Would anyone be interested in maybe a day trip sometime soon, possibly on the weekend? Would love to get stuck into some new species that we don't get back home.

I am happy to chip in for fuel and such to get places or if a boat is needed.

If this is not possible. Could I get some info on the standard places to go? Where is it legal to fish and such, I don't want to be fishing private waters without consent or such.

Im really looking at getting into some small tarpon, redfish and peacock bass.

Greatly appreciate any info,
Cheers.
Mike

LighthouseKip

Your 5 wt is under-gunned for the salt, but you can handle peacocks and largemouth with that. You won't find any redfish around Ft Lauderdale. Your best bet, if you don't have access to a boat, is to fish the roadside canals from foot. Any of them really. Look for culverts and spillways. Just do a google maps search near where you are, and you'll find canals. Tie on a big black or purple wooly **** and you'll be able to catch just about anything that is swimming. Largemouth bass are big and plentiful, peacocks are around but much more shy this time of year. There are also cichlids, gar, and snakeheads. You can get quite the mixed bag from the canals. Good luck!

saltybum

Might want to check out a fly shop for more info and maybe an 8wt to open up more opportunities.
Let us know how you do.

Africa

Thanx for that info. Hopefully I can get stuck into something in the next few!

twobbles

Yea for sure go talk to the guys in the ole florida fly shop or even the bass pro down there off griffin rd