The Complete Coastal Quiver texas saltwater fishing, texas fishing, wadefishing, wading, bay fishing, speckled trout, redfish, snook, tarpon, texas redfish, texas speckled trout As saltwater fly fishing increases in popularity, more anglers are drawing a line in the sand. On one side stand conventional tackle anglers. Fly fishing enthusiasts comprise the opposite camp. In fact, within the conventional tackle segment there exists several major sub-groups; baitcast vs. spinning, bait vs. artificial, etc. This should not be an either/or decision. All of the above mentioned tools and techniques have their place. Fishermen who are able to master and apply each of them will find success more often than their single-track counterparts. The normal evolution of a coastal angler is something like this: Early on, bait is the rule. As things progress, bait is used to locate fish, then a switch to artificials occurs. Once a sufficient amount of confidence is acquired in hardware, bait is left behind. Eventually, some anglers use lures as locators and then use a fly rod to partake in the bounty. In the end, a few fishermen switch wholly to fly tackle. Whereas this type of progression can provide invaluable knowledge, too often anglers lock in on a single phase of the process. Usually, these fishermen refuse to take the next step while also abandoning the previous steps. The key to becoming a well-rounded angler is to learn each phase and continue to use them as dictacted by the prevailing conditions. Now, it literally takes hundreds of days on the water to get a firm grasp on the various tackle and techniques. But, there are some basic guidelines that can help usher things along. When choosing between natural and artificials (flies and conventional lures), several factors play a role. For example, schoolie specks find live shrimp are irresistible, while trophy sized fish require a meal with more sustenance. The obvious choice would be finger mullet. However, since it is very difficult to cover a substantial amount of water with a live mullet, a mullet-imitating plug would be a better choice. As far as those schoolies are concerned, situation would further complicate the matter. If the fish are scattered in relatively deep, off-colored water, a shrimp and popping cork rig may be the best probing device. Conversely, fish found in shallow or clear water may spook from such a noisy contraption, dictating the use of a light jig, or better yet, a fly. Futhermore, when fishing under birds, a jig or spoon is a faster, more efficient means for catching and unhooking fish. Big bull reds running in the surf offer another prime opportunity for someone with bait-rigging skills. Since these big schools move through infrequently, a natural bait set to intercept is much more bountiful than constant probing with plugs or flies. Conversely, odds of taking reds in ultra-skinny water favor the angler wielding a fly rod. The accuracy, deft-touch and rapid fire ability of a long rod is unmatched by other types of tackle. One last consideration when making your selection is the mode of transportation. Jetty walkers, wade fishermen and kayaks certainly can travel much more freely with plugs and flies than with baitbuckets and livewells. Boating anglers aren't as restricted and often in murky water and high wind, a stocked livewell can save the day. Successful fishermen treat tackle and techniques as tools. Since most days on the water present a variety of challenges, the more tools you can use, the more problems you can solve. texas saltwater fishing, texas fishing, wadefishing, wading, bay fishing, speckled trout, redfish, snook, tarpon, texas redfish, texas speckled trout