Ask MidCurrent: Family Vacation/Beach Fishing Combos

Question: We’re planning a beach vacation to either the Gulf or East Coast this August. Any tips on surf fly fishing along these  coasts? Where are the top fishing/family beaches? What gear should I bring, and how can I involve the family without boring them?

Answer: You’re ankle-deep in warm surf, the sun barely peeking over the horizon, a fly rod in hand, the family either right by your side (or maybe still asleep) with the morning’s angling opportunities stretching as far down that sand as you care to walk and wade. That’s the magic of surf fly fishing during a family beach vacation. Whether you’re chasing redfish in the emerald waters of the Gulf or tempting stripers along the Atlantic, the coastal waters from Texas to Maine offer a smorgasbord of angling adventures. Let’s dive into how you can turn your family’s beach trip into a fly fishing journey where the peaceful lull of waves meets the heart-pounding thrill of a strip-strike, all while the kids build sandcastles nearby.

Gulf of Mexico: Where Redfish Rule the Surf
The Gulf Coast is a fly angler’s playground with its emerald waters and white sandy beaches. Pensacola Beach, Florida, is a hotspot that feels like paradise, while South Padre Island, Texas, offers diverse fishing grounds that’ll keep you guessing (and casting) all day long.

The Gulf’s Grand Slam
In these waters, redfish reign supreme. These copper-colored bruisers are like the bulldogs of the surf, putting up a fight that’ll make your arms ache and your heart race. But they’re not the only game in town. Speckled trout lurk in the surf, providing a good challenge for those who like finesse fishing. And if you’re looking for a real test of your skills, jack crevalle are like freight trains— hook into one, and you’re in for a wild ride.

Gearing Up for Gulf Success
When it comes to tackle, think versatile. An 8 or 9-weight rod is the workhorse of Gulf fly fishing— it’ll handle most situations you’ll encounter. Pair it with a floating line and you’re in business. Here’s a pro tip: consider overlining your rod (like using a 9-weight line on an 8-weight rod) to help you punch through those Gulf breezes.

For leaders, go with a 7-9 foot tapered setup, tapering down to 16-20 lb test. Add some fluorocarbon tippet in the 10-20 lb range, and you’re ready to rock.

Flies That Get Gulf Fish Fired Up
When it comes to flies, think “match the hatch” Gulf style. Crab flies are like candy to redfish, imitating the juvenile blue crabs they love to munch on. Shrimp flies are another go-to, mimicking the brown and white shrimp that call these waters home. The trusty Clouser Minnow is a versatile pattern, effective for multiple species. And if you want to see a redfish go nuts, tie on a spoon fly—the flash and vibration are often too much for them to resist.

East Coast: Stripers, Blues, and More
Heading up the Atlantic coast, the surf fly fishing scene changes, but the excitement doesn’t let up. From Montauk, New York (the self-proclaimed “Surfcasting Capital of the World”) to the diverse waters of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, the East Coast is a fly angler’s dream.

The Atlantic’s Awesome Foursome
On the East Coast, striped bass are the undisputed kings of surf fly fishing. These powerful, line-stripping fish are like the linebackers of the ocean, and hooking into one is an experience you won’t soon forget. Toothy bluefish. These toothy critters are always ready to crash the party and put up a fight.

For those who like their fish fast and furious, false albacore (or “albies” as the locals call them) provide heart-pounding action. And in the southern reaches, redfish offer yet another worthy adversary for the surf fly angler.

East Coast Arsenal
When gearing up for East Coast surf fly fishing, it pays to be prepared. A 9 or 10-weight rod is your best bet for stripers and blues, while a 7 or 8-weight setup is perfect for smaller species or calmer days. Floating lines are still the go-to, but don’t be afraid to pack a sinking or sink-tip line for those days when the fish are hanging deeper or when you’re targeting offshore species.

Leader and tippet setups are similar to Gulf recommendations—7-9 foot tapered leaders with fluorocarbon tippet in the 12-20 lb range, depending on your quarry.

Flies That Turn Atlantic Heads
The fly patterns that work magic on the East Coast are a bit different from their Gulf counterparts. Deceiver patterns are like striped bass kryptonite—they just can’t resist them. Surf Candies are another killer pattern, perfectly imitating the small baitfish that larger predators feast on. And don’t forget about crab flies, especially if you’re fishing the southern part of the coast. The Clouser Minnow remains a reliable choice here, just as effective as it is in the Gulf and pretty much anywhere else big fish eat little fish

Techniques for Coastal Conquest
Whether you’re fishing the Gulf or the Atlantic, some techniques hold true across both regions. Sight fishing can be incredibly effective when conditions allow—there’s nothing quite like spotting your target and making the perfect cast. When it comes to retrieving your fly, remember that variety is the spice of life. Mix up your stripping speeds to imitate different prey and trigger those strikes.

One of the most crucial skills in surf fly fishing is reading the water. Look for structure, rips, and color changes that attract fish. It’s like being a detective, piecing together clues to solve the mystery of where the fish are hiding.

Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Legal
While the thrill of the catch is what we’re after, safety should always be your top priority. Keep an eye on incoming waves, especially on the East Coast where they can be more unpredictable. And remember, we’re guests in the fish’s home—practice catch and release with care, handling fish gently to ensure their survival.

Don’t forget to brush up on local fishing regulations before you cast. Rules can vary by state and species, and the last thing you want is to run afoul of the law while you’re trying to enjoy your family vacation.

Making It a Family Affair
One of the best parts about surf fly fishing during family vacations is the opportunity to involve your loved ones. Use the beach’s wide-open space as a classroom to teach family members fly casting basics. It’s like planting seeds of passion for the sport we love.

Engage kids by having them look for signs of fish activity. It’s like a treasure hunt, with the prize being the excitement of spotting a potential catch. And don’t forget to use these moments to teach about marine conservation. It’s about leaving a legacy—nurturing a love for the sport and respect for the environment in the next generation.

So, yeah, definitely pack the fly rod along with the kids’ bucket and shovel, cooler of juice boxes, and sunscreen. Whether you’re chasing redfish in the Gulf or stripers on the Atlantic, surf fly fishing offers a perfect blend of angling opportunities and quality family time. The surf is calling—wade on in.