Catching Texas' Trophy Trout on Fly Rods texas saltwater fishing, texas fishing, wadefishing, wading, bay fishing, speckled trout, redfish, snook, tarpon, texas redfish, texas speckled trout Most flats fishermen feel February offers the best chance for trophy speckled trout. For whatever reason, relatively few fly fishermen take advantage of this seasonal opportunity. However, rather than focusing on the restrictions of fly tackle, anglers should realize there is more than one advantage to the long rod while stalking super-sized specks. There are essentially two ways to catch big trout; blind-casting and sight-casting. This holds true regardless of tackle. Now, it would be a lie to say that a fly-rod can outperform a baitcaster when it comes to covering water while blind-casting. But, for those determined long-rodders, it can be done. The keys to successful blind-casting are the same whether using fly or plug gear. It is essential that the angler use a big, visible bait and cover as much water as possible. The first fly to come to mind for this type of service is the popper. True, poppers can produce, but most sizable poppers represent a casting challenge. Therefore, their use should be limited to structure fishing around reefs, docks, bridges, etc. Far better choices for the blind-casting fly fisher are large streamers. Patterns such as Sea-Ducers and Deceivers offer a generous profile and cast relatively easily. Launching these patterns with a intermediate line aids their castibility tremendously, not to mention it is easier to detect strikes with the slow-sinking line.   Probing wide expanses of water with bulky flies will certainly draw strikes, but expect to put in a plenty of time casting between bites. However, sight-casting is tailored made to fly fishing. When the fish are in shallow, clear water, there are some tremendous benefits to fly tackle. Probably the greatest advantage a fly rod has in this situation is the accurate, deft presentations that are possible. A skilled fly caster can place a fly within a foot or two of a sulking speck and even the largest fly will land softer than a hard-plastic topwater plug. Again, go with big streamers. The Sea-Ducer is probably the best all-around choice, although bunny leeches, bendbacks and Deceivers also work well. The key unleashing a fairly long (50 - 70 feet) cast with a minimal amount of false casts. Trout on the flats are extremely wary and even those spotted on the horizon must be cast to immediately. More often than not, trying to wade or pole closer only serves to spook the fish. This may sound impossible, but is actually within the reach of most modest casters. All it takes is a little practice. Before heading out on the flats, spend some time casting to a hula-hoop set at various distances. Keep plenty of line stripped out and make sure you can keep it tangle free. Try making all casts with one or two false casts. Work to eliminate any unnecessary motion and remember, time is of the essence. Each passing second allows the fish to get a better sense that danger is approaching. texas saltwater fishing, texas fishing, wadefishing, wading, bay fishing, speckled trout, redfish, snook, tarpon, texas redfish, texas speckled trout