Before you start thinking this is a major undertaking, forget the fact that there is been a tremendous amount of information published about saltwater fly fishing. For those who have never picked up a fly rod, all of this information about fly fishing and accessories can be quite overwhelming. The good news is that like any type of fishing, fly fishing can be as complicated or is easy is you cannot make it. In addition to that, you do not need a tremendous amount of either knowledge or equipment to get started. Contrary to what you may think, you will not need to spend your life savings on equipment that will help you land fish. There are however, some basic equipment needs that are required, and this list should help you get started.

The first thing you will need is a good fly rod. Most saltwater fly anglers recommend an 8 or 9 weight for average salt water fishing. This includes the average saltwater fish in the Northeast such as bluefish or striped bass. Most anglers recommend a rod length of typically about 9 feet long, since they give you the leverage that you need to cast the line. Anything much longer than that becomes hard handle. Most tackle shops will carry a good quality rod for somewhere around $100.

The next thing you will need is a reel that matches your rod. The good news is that reels are rated exactly the same way as fishing rods are rated. If you have purchased an eight weight rod, you will need an eight rated reel. This is pretty simple to understand. The best choice for saltwater applications is the larger arbor reel. These allow you to have a couple of hundred yards a fly line backing, which is easily accommodated on a wider and deeper spool. This additional length is necessary in the event that you hook a large fish, and he decides to make a long run. These fly reels with good drag systems typically cost less than $100.

The next piece that you will need is fly line and backing. Inexpensive fly lines are a good choice for those just starting out. Make sure the line weight matches your rod and reel, and that you use a floating weight forward line. You will not need sinking lines right away. Before you add your fly line to the reel, fill it with fly line backing. Dacron line rated at 20 to 30 pound test is usually your best option. It is typically best to ask the tackle shop to wind the line for you, since they have winding machines.

Finally, you will need leaders and flies. The best leaders are made from monofilament of fluorocarbon line. This piece of line should be the same length as your rod, and should be attached to your fly line before you tie on your fly. Your local retailer will be more than happy to make recommendations the leader sizes and this will depend on the type of fish that you are going after. Tapered leaders allow for unfurling at the end of the cast.

The final piece of the puzzle is a small selection of flies. In this instance, your best to tap into local sources of knowledge to make a decision as to which flies are best to use. You really only need a small selection of surface flies and streamers in a variety of sizes and patterns to get started. As a general rule, the clerks at local tackle shops will be able to point you in the right direction. Once you have been able to fish a few times on your own, you will quickly determine which ones work best for you.

When you are out saltwater fishing it is important to make sure you have the right supplies. Some of the most popular brands include Shimano Reels, Penn Saltwater Reels, and Team Daiwa Reels.