Getting Started

Long Island, New York, stands as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting pristine beaches, abundant marine life, and some of the finest saltwater fly fishing opportunities on the East Coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler seeking a new challenge or a beginner eager to delve into the world of fly fishing, Long Island's coastal waters provide an exhilarating playground.

Given the frequent inquiries I receive about fly rod and reel recommendations, mostly from individuals just venturing into the realm of fly fishing, I've decided to create a dedicated video. This video will cover the basics, including how to assemble a fly fishing outfit and how to embark on your journey into fly fishing.

A fast action fly rod (8-10 weight) and reel specifically designed for saltwater conditions, paired with cold water intermediate fly line is all you need to setup a fly fishing outfit for most of the inshore fishing on Long Island. Add fluorocarbon leader material between 12-20lb and a spool of 18-20lb steel wire for bluefish and you are all set to tie your flies.

An assortment of saltwater flies such as Clouser Minnows, Deceivers, and UV Resin Minnows in different colors will complete your fishing setup.

Choosing the right fly rod as a beginner can feel overwhelming, with a wide array of options available across a range of prices, from a few hundred to over one thousand dollars. To navigate this sea of choices effectively, I recommend test casting fly rods spanning the entry-level to high-end spectrum. This hands-on approach, coupled with consideration of your budget, will help you find the perfect rod to suit your needs and casting style

Choosing the right fly line for your Long Island fishing adventure is straightforward. Opt for a cold water intermediate line, which is ideal for most fishing scenarios in the area. While fly lines come in three types—floating, intermediate, and sinking—an intermediate line will suit the majority of your needs on the water.

We've used the following products and have placed links directly to vendors that offer them to you.

Fly Rods
Rise Fly Rods: https://www.risefishing.com
Sage R8 Core Fly Rod: https://alnk.to/3ngpL7S
Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod: https://alnk.to/2uGCRnm

Stripping Baskets
Orvis Stripping Basket: https://alnk.to/dLh7Di0
Ahrex Flexistripper Line Basket: https://alnk.to/3ngpLrb
AVENTIK EUPHENG Fly Line Basket: https://shorturl.at/gBEK9

Fly Reels
Orvis Mirage Fly Reel: https://alnk.to/b7xKV4K
Tibor The Everglades Fly Reel: https://alnk.to/aWCZWmy
Hatch Iconic Large Arbor Fly Reel: https://alnk.to/dLh7Dsa
Orvis Hydros Fly Reel: https://alnk.to/g3aYo5K
Nautilus CCF-X2 Fly Reel: https://alnk.to/dprBFUS
Sage Spectrum Fly Reel https://alnk.to/gp0ulFv

Fly Lines
RIO Saltwater fly lines: https://alnk.to/hhAhfEf
Scientific Saltwater fly lines: https://alnk.to/6mPir59
RIO Saltwater fly lines: https://alnk.to/7M9mhJg

Waders
Orvis Mens Ultralight Convertible Waders: https://alnk.to/44VrGMH
Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Waders: https://alnk.to/btngSVh
Simms Men's Rivershed-Half Zip Fleece: https://alnk.to/eOLFwgy

Understanding the Basics

When it comes to saltwater fly reels, the options also greatly vary in both price and performance. However, for most inshore fly fishing ventures on Long Island, beginner anglers can suffice with a reel specifically designed for saltwater conditions that matches the weight of their fly rod. In your search, prioritize value, exploring both new and used options to find the best fit for your needs

Long Island's coastal waters boast a rich diversity of saltwater species, including striped bass, bluefish, fluke (summer flounder), weakfish, and more. To enhance your fishing success, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the habitats and feeding patterns of your target species. Additionally, gaining insight into factors such as tides, currents, and seasonal migrations will greatly inform your fishing strategy.

In an effort to demystify the challenges that beginners may encounter in saltwater fly fishing, the following video offers a concise introduction to this world. My goal is to provide insights that I wish I had known when I started.

I hope this guide aids you in your journey, and I look forward to seeing you on the water!

Sergio

The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Saltwater Fly Fishing, Long Island video.

Products tested on this video