Everglades Fly Fishing
Explore The Everglades And Sight Fish For Tarpon, Snook, And Redfish With Capt. Jeff Legutki.
Fly Fishing In The Everglades
There are a lot of different ways to fish the Everglades, but Capt. Jeff Legutki’s favorite way is with a fly rod. Most anglers will agree that not only is fly fishing the pinnacle of the sport, but it is also the most rewarding way to fish shallow water.
Fly fishing isn’t necessarily a numbers game. In fact, if numbers are your thing, then there is probably a better way for you to fish. It is the challenge that fly fishing presents and the experiences that fly fishing leads to that tends to draw people to it.
The Chase
With the boat on plane and the wind in your face your journey begins with a ride through the labyrinth of mangrove islands that make up the Everglades National Park. Some days, the boat ride will be ten minutes, other days the ride might take an hour or more. Nobody really knows what goes through Jeff’s head when he is deciding on where to start fishing. Guides like Jeff posses a sixth sense, and as his internal fish detector goes off, the boat slows, he hands you a rod, and jumps up on his poling platform.
The Hunt
While standing at the ready on the front of the boat, you are quietly poled along searching for clues. The Everglades is a big area that appears that it should have fish in every spot. The fact is that although there are fish everywhere, they use different areas at different times for different reasons and can be difficult to find. Anglers new to the Everglades are often overwhelmed by the scene, as finding the signs that fish are close is a learned skill. The fish in the Everglades don’t give themselves up all that easily. A dimple, a ripple, a push, a pop, a splash might be the only indicator of their presence.
The Target
The reality is that most likely Capt. Jeff is going to see the fish before you do. He has been staring into these waters for over 30 years and has the eyes of an osprey. Ok maybe not an osprey, but he knows what he is looking for. The water color/clarity in the Everglades is conditional and varies greatly. In one area it might appear black while in another, yellow. Around the corner it might be clear green or chocolate milk brown. No matter what the water looks like, Jeff will help you see the fish and prepare for a shot.
The Shot
In preparation for the shot, Capt. Jeff will position the boat while taking a lot of factors into account. His goal is to put you in the optimal position to make the best presentation possible. Making long casts in the Everglades is not always necessary, but helps when the situation calls for it. Accuracy, speed of delivery, and fly control is paramount to feeding fish flies in the Everglades. Most fish prefer a fly that is presented in a manner where it swims in front of their face and triggers a reaction bite. It is rare to see a fish move more than a foot to eat a fly.
The Bite
Enticing a fish to bite your fly isn’t always as easy as it sounds. No two shots are the same . Different fish in different conditions might be looking for different presentations. Quickly reading the fish’s behavior will give insight as to how best to present the fly. Capt. Jeff will instinctually coach you thru the process and let you know to “pop, pop, pop” or “slide, slide, slide”. When the fish eats, a moderate strip set will usually do the job of setting the hook.
The Fight
When hooked, most fish will want to instantly run by default. The rule of thumb here is if the fish wants to run, let it run. If it wants to take you to the reel, manage the line and let it take you to the reel. If it wants to run straight at you, strip as fast as you can and try to stay tight. Many fish will jump and try to take you into the mangroves. Use your best discretion as to how much pressure to apply and try to break that fish’s spirit without breaking the line. This part is really up to you, and the part that many folks enjoy most.
The Reward
Sometimes everything goes right, and you get the opportunity to man up and grab your fish. Capt. Jeff will most likely scream “Whoa!” in your face and help you get a couple quick pictures of your trophy before reviving and releasing the fish. You will probably be smiling from ear to ear, and there will without a doubt be a high-five, some knuckles, or that awkward high-five/knuckles combination. Some people like to celebrate this moment with a libation or what have you. Enjoy yourself and do your thing. Jeff is a pretty cool guy, and will be ready to put you on the next fish whenever you are.
The “Big-3” Fish Of The Everglades
Tarpon
Tarpon are the showboat of the Everglades. Their massive size, willingness to eat flies, and acrobatic nature make them a fan favorite and the reason why South Florida fishing guides are so busy between the months of March and June.
Snook
Sight fishing a big Everglades snook with a fly rod in shallow water is without a doubt one of the greatest hunts in North America. Snook inhabit almost every corner of the Everglades, yet their wariness and tendency to allude anglers adds to their appeal.
Redfish
Do not underestimate the awesomeness of the redfish. They are one of the heartiest species of fish that inhabit the waters of the Gulf coast and Southeastern United States. The Everglades is their Sothernmost range and a great place to spend time chasing them.
Some Of The Other Species We Fly Fish For In The Everglades
Permit
Tripletail
Jack Crevalle
False Albacore
Cobia
Goliath Grouper
Sheepshead
Pompano
Seatrout
Everglades Fly Fishing Charters
Capt. Jeff Letgutki offers full day and half day fly fishing trips from Naples , Marco Island and Everglades City year-round for anglers of all abilities. Multiple boats are available for groups of more than 2 people. Contact us for current rates and availability. All trips include tackle/flies, fuel costs, launch fees, and a cooler with water and ice.
Payments And Deposits
Cash, Check, or Venmo
Credit cards through Venmo (service charges may occur)
$100 per day per guide deposit for all trips
Mail deposits to:
Jeff Legutki
1229 Lake Shore Dr.
Naples, FL 34103
What To Bring
Polarized sunglasses (copper, amber, and green lenses preferred)
Hat and any needed sun protection (mask/gloves)
9, 10, 11, & 12 wt. rods (if own gear is preferred)
Quick drying sun protective weather appropriate clothing
Rain gear, jackets and pants
Shoes with non-marking soles
Any food or drinks needed for the day