We’ve created a quick checklist of essential tasks to make sure
you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead. If questions come up or you
need anything at all, just give us a call, we’re here to help every
step of the way.
To-Do List:
✓ Arrange flights to/from Austin (AUS), Houston (IAH), or San Antonio (SAT), Texas
✓ Arrange a rental car
✓ Purchase a Texas fishing license (see below)
When traveling to Bay Flats Lodge, a 9-foot, 8-weight fast-action rod is the gold standard for most sight-casting situations, though a 9-weight is an excellent addition for punching through the afternoon wind. Pair your rods with high-quality, anodized saltwater reels featuring corrosion-resistant drags and at least 100 yards of 20- or 30-pound backing.
For line choice, weight-forward floating lines in redfish-specific tapers are essential for turning over flies in the salt. Your leaders should be 9 to 10 feet long, tapered to 16- or 20-pound fluorocarbon; we recommend bringing extra spools of tippet in those sizes to match. Since you will be primarily sight-casting in the flats, focus on size 4 patterns or smaller. Proven producers include shrimp and crab imitations like Redfish Crack, Skinny Water Shrimp, and Baffin Blue Crab. It is wise to carry a variety of eye weights—ranging from plastic and bead chain to heavier dumbbell eyes—to adapt to changing water depths and tides.
Bay Flats Lodge - Provided Equipment:
If we were to choose only one fly rod to take with us to Bay Flats Lodge, it would be a fast-action 9-foot, 8-weight four-piece travel rod. An 8-weight provides the necessary backbone to punch bulky fly patterns through a stiff Gulf breeze while remaining delicate enough to land a fly softly in front of a tailing redfish in the skinny waters of San Antonio Bay.
Since fishing at Bay Flats Lodge primarily involves sight-casting, most presentations will utilize a size 4 hook or smaller. Proven producers include various shrimp and crab patterns tied with bead chain or plastic
eyes for a soft entry. However, it is also important to carry a range of flies with weighted dumbbell eyes to effectively respond to deeper water or faster-moving tides.
We understand packing for an adventure is not easy. On a trip like this it is very important to have everything you need and nothing you do not. As the climate is extremely changeable and a wide range of temperatures and conditions can be expected, we recommend layering clothes. Anglers should be prepared with sun protective clothing, fleece/soft shell jacket, and a rain jacket. Synthetic fabrics are preferred to cotton. Dress at the lodges/camps is neat but casual.
Contact our expert, Blake Katchur, below for more information about this unique destination and to inquire about setting up the perfect trip to match your goals.
303-794-1104
Blake@anglersall.com
