Flats Fishing: The Angler's Guide

Flats fishing indeed can be straightforward, as its name suggests. The quintessence of this type of fishing involves stalking a variety of fish in endless shallows and pristine, expensive flats.

Once a fish is spotted, you cast your line. And, yes, you guessed it right! Patience is a crucial quality, but it also makes this fishing approach too slow for some at first glance because not everything is always what it seems. 

Excitement is hidden in patience, insight, sharp vision, and overcoming obstacles such as sailing or trampling and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions. That's why the focus is on thorough preparation and the ability to adapt. 

This guide was created to reveal the joy of this type of fishing and present what you need to embark on an adventure. We'll delve into essential fishing gear, techniques, and strategies and highlight the best flats fishing locations. So, let's go!

Understanding Flats Fishing

Flats fishing includes all those techniques performed in shallow, clear waters, often less than 3 feet deep. Those areas can be brackish tropical and subtropical waters with sandy or grassy bottoms.

Also, in different freshwater areas, steady rivers and river mouths. The more complex the fishing technique, the more challenging it is, especially in water areas under tides and currents because they are home to many game fish species.

Although flat fishing implies various techniques, experimentation, and improvisation, it often boils down to sight fishing and fly fishing. Both approaches require sharp vision, stealthy movements, precise casting, and specialized gear. What they all have in common is calmness, patience, and, at the same time, tension and the entire presence of all senses, as well as an exciting experience of connecting with nature.

Why Choose Flats Fishing

Although it is generally accessible to everyone, and every character type can find joy in flats fishing, it may hold the most for those who like to work out strategies, love a sense of control, and have minds quickly adapted to sharp focus. You will need those skills regardless of which flat fishing technique you choose. So, if you find yourself in those words, flat fishing has strategies that will suit your angling aspirations.

The good thing about gear prices and fishing is that there is a huge range to choose between the more expensive and cheaper options. 

Reaching different milestones in this fishing type often requires a lot of practice and gathering knowledge of species, gear, environment, and how to turn it into a fruitful fishing adventure.

In addition, anglers are attracted by the excitement of spotting and casting in clear, shallow waters and the visual beauty of tropical coasts, remote islands, or the landscapes of freshwater areas. So, if you are a fan of such scenarios, you must admit that resisting is not easy.

When to Go Flats Fishing

Although theoretically possible, flats fishing is tricky during rain or unstable weather. If you are, e.g., in the sea or ocean environment, the season, tide, and weather all affect the fish's behavior, so your whole strategy and plans can be lost.

In principle, spring and early, mild fall are ideal for flats fishing because the fish are more active due to the warmer waters, while, for example, the best time to fish during the summer is in the early morning and late afternoon. 

Winter can be challenging due to the colder waters, but there are regions with mild and not-so-typical winters. Consider the effect of unstable weather on fish behavior and consult the long-term weather forecast before going on a flat fishing expedition.

Fish Species Commonly Caught by Flats Fishing

As we have already told you, flats fishing may seem calm and flat. Still, it is a well-controlled and exciting chase precisely through control, which allows anglers to catch various exciting and challenging species of fish in shallow, clear waters.

• Bonefish: When you first see it, you would never know that this flat fish can be quite a challenging catch. Strong and fast, they are sought after for their explosive runs and are a real test of fishing skill and patience.

• Permit: Known for their awkward and challenging behavior, Permits are prized for their powerful running and fastidious feeding habits.

• Tarpon: The "Silver King" is a favorite of almost all anglers because it is solid and combative. Tarpon fishing in the early morning or late evening can be a genuinely spiritual experience.

• Redfish This commodity is a very popular target due to its abundance and readiness to catch a variety of baits. They can be found in tailings in shallow waters, creating an exciting visual fishing experience.

• Snook: These fierce fish are also often found in the shallows near mangroves and grassy areas. Aggressive and acrobatic, you have to be very careful while approaching them. 

• Spotted Sea Trout: These are found in grass flats and estuaries. They are very popular among lowland anglers and are known for their colorful patterns and delicious fillets.

• Jack Crevalle: Dominant species, brute strength, and ruthless combativeness. They are often found in residential schools and are less picky about what they eat, meaning that with good access, it can end up on your table relatively quickly.

• Cobia: Not so familiar, but they can still be found cruising the flats. They can be spotted swimming near stingrays or other large marine animals, which adds to the thrill of the chase and is delicious. 

• Blacktip Shark: Maybe you didn't expect it, but you can catch this type of shark using flat fishing techniques. Blacktip sharks are an impressive opponent in light combat.

• Ladyfish: Often referred to as the "Poor Man's Tarpon," they should not be underestimated; they provide quite good resistance and are a fun catch, especially for those who want to practice their casting and fighting techniques.

If, for some reason, these species are few or do not satisfy your fishing curiosity, rest assured; the variety of fish species available for flats fishing is wide, and in addition to the ones we mentioned, with a bit of luck, you will come across many more.

Essential Gear for Flats Fishing

Although the gear for flat fishing techniques is different, the selection is usually excellent and easily adaptable to everyone in terms of price and style.

Rods

Whichever rod you choose, remember the target distance and the type of fish and that it preferably combines lightness and strength. Here are the most commonly used in this fishing types.

• Fly Rods: This rod type is almost essential to flat fishing equipment. It is typically 8 to 9 feet long and weighs 7 to 12, depending on the target species. If you decide on a lighter one, the fish must also be lighter, such as Bonefish and Redfish, while heavier rods (10-12) are necessary for larger species, such as Tarpon. 

• Fast-Acting Rods: These rods are great for casting long distances and handling strong fish while providing strength and support in any windy situation. 

• Spinning Rods: They are a common choice of most flat fishing enthusiasts due to their versatility and ease of use. They are usually between 6.5 and 8 feet long and have medium to medium-heavy power. In flats, fishing techniques are used to handle Snapper and Redfish. Spinning rods are sensitive and capable of fast and accurate casting. 

• Casting Rods: Those are less common in flats fishing, although some flatline anglers still use them. These rods typically range from 6.5 to 7.5 feet in length, with medium to heavy, and are preferred for their accuracy and the backbone they provide, which is essential for handling robust and hard-fighting fish. 

• Travel Rods: Designed for anglers who must pack light and travel to fishing destinations. There are several versions, mostly the spinning and fly versions. They can be broken down into multiple pieces (usually four or more) for easy transport. They offer performance comparable to one-piece rods, making them suitable for serious flatland fishing.

Remember to maintain your rods and store them properly; they will serve you well for years.

Reels 

After the rods come the reels, which must support the performance of the chosen rod and line. Pay attention to the following: 

• Fly Reels: Fly reels are essential when targeting species such as Bonefish, Permit, and Tarpon. These are not harmless fish, and reels must be of high quality and resistant to corrosion. Those reels are smooth and have a powerful pulling system to control the running of solid fish. A sealed drag system is desirable as it protects the reel from salt and sand, ensuring its smooth operation when fighting powerful fish.

• Spinning Reels: They are simple and effective, making them an excellent choice for flat fishing. They are lightweight yet durable, with a robust resistance system to handle species like Snook and Redfish. Choose spinning reels with a higher gear ratio because they allow fast line retrieval, which is crucial when fishing in shallow, clear waters. 

• Baitcasting Reels: They are uncommon for flat fishing, although anglers use them when hunting larger fish. They allow greater control and precision, especially for casting heavier lures. A robust drag system is necessary to handle the powerful rushes of fish like Tarpon. High-quality baitcasting reels designed for saltwater use will have corrosion-resistant components and smooth, reliable performance.

• Travel Reels: These reels are designed to support the compactness of travel rods and for those who need compact, portable gear without sacrificing performance. Available in spinning and fly reel versions, travel reels are more straightforward to disassemble for transport but still feature durable construction, corrosion resistance, and a reliable drag system to handle the rigors of flat fishing.

Take care of all your flat fishing equipment, regardless of the price, because that's the only way it will serve you longer, whether top-notch quality or more modestly priced.

Rigs

Whichever flat fishing technique you choose, quality rigs ensure the bait is presented naturally. Here are the types of rigs recommended for flat fishing.

• Dropper Rig: This type has a dropper and is usually used in flat fishing to present multiple lures at different depths. It consists of a central line with one or more short leader lines (droppers) attached at intervals, each with a hook or bait. It's great for targeting species like Walleye and Redfish, as the dropper allows anglers to cover more water and increase their chances. 

• Carolina Rig: The famous Carolina rigs are popular for targeting bottom-dwelling species in flats fishing. It has a sliding egg sinker on the main line, followed by a swivel, leader, and hook, which allows the bait to move freely. The Carolina rig is particularly effective in sandy or muddy flats where fish feed on the bottom, and combining it with fluorocarbon leaders increases the chances of a successful hookup.

• Popping Cork Rig: This is a float (pop-up float) above the leader that keeps the bait suspended from the bottom and creates noise and disturbance on the surface to attract fish. It consists of a central line tied to the plug, a leader attached to the bottom, and a baited hook or artificial lure. The noise and vibrations it produces mimic the sounds of the movement of the prey and thus can attract fish from a distance to the flats. 

• Double Rig: A double rig, often called a tandem rig, has two lures on the same line, allowing anglers to target multiple fish simultaneously. The rig involves tying a second leader and a hook to the main leader, usually 18 to 24 inches apart. It is effective for raising fish such as sea Trout and Bream, providing the opportunity to catch two fish simultaneously.

The best thing you can do is always have spare rigs, especially if you have a wave of slaving luck.

Lines

Choosing the right line will ensure an excellent strategic bait presentation and safety when maneuvering the fish. 

• Monofilament Line: This type ensures versatility and lightness, even though its core is just a single nylon strand. It is almost non-stretch, which helps to absorb blows from fish, and nearly invisible underwater, always in water areas where flats fishing is practiced. However, over time, habs are degraded and significantly reduced due to exposure to UV radiation. 

• Fluorocarbon Line: Also barely visible, but unlike monofilament, it is more resistant to UV and abrasion. Accordingly, it is more durable. It is also denser, which allows it to sink faster and makes it suitable for quickly placing baits at the desired depth. It is often used as a leading material in combination with a braided main line to combine the advantages of both types. 

• Braided Line: If you need an extremely strong line, the braided line is number one. It is made of multiple strands of synthetic fibers woven together, which results in a thin diameter compared to its strength and allows for longer casting and deeper penetration through vegetation. It is very resistant to abrasion and applicable when fishing around oyster beds or other rough structures. However, it is more visible in clear water and may require a fluorocarbon leader to reduce visibility.

• Hybrid Lines: Hybrid lines combine the best of monofilament and fluorocarbon, resulting in a balance of strength, sensitivity, and low visibility. These lines provide flexibility and ease of handling with the abrasion resistance and properties of fluorocarbon. They can be a good choice for all-round fishing, especially in different conditions where the advantages of both line types are helpful. 

• Intermediate Fly: This fly line is used to present flies at medium depths and is generally good for fish that do not feed on the surface but not deep either. It is usually clear or has a low visibility color to avoid scaring fish in clear waters. 

Each line type has specific advantages, and you can adjust it differently.

Hooks

The choice of hooks for flat fishing is quite varied, and you can find a type for any fish. 

• Fly Hooks: They are primarily used for fly fishing and are designed explicitly for tying flies in the flat fishery. You will find them in different sizes and shapes to suit different fly patterns and target species. They have sharp tips for efficient hook sets and corrosion-resistant finishes. Common types include straight shank, curved shank, and wide gap hooks, each selected based on the specific fly.

• Circle Hooks: Classic and multifunctional, they are also inevitable in flats fishing. They are often used during catch-and-release because they are made to hurt the fish as little as possible. These hooks are ideal for live bait fishing and can be used for various species, including Snook and Redfish.

• J Hooks: They are also standard; they are used with different types of bait and come in different sizes, making them suitable for targeting various species, from small Bonefish to giant Tarpon. They have a sharp point and a traditional hook shape, which allows for an easy hook set. 

• Treble Hooks: They have three points, often used with artificial lures and when fishing for species like Snook and Jack Crevalle. These hooks must be extremely sharp and corrosion-resistant to maintain their effectiveness. They can be more challenging to remove, making them less ideal for catching and fishing than single hooks.

• Inline Hooks This type could be a second option or replacement for treble hooks on lures to facilitate easier hooking and releasing. They have a straight handle and eyelet, aligning the hook tip with the lure's body. They are strong, sharp, and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for various flat fishing species, from Redfish to Tarpon. 

Quality, corrosion resistance, and good maintenance are critical factors for all hooks used in saltwater to ensure durability and performance.

Standard Bait Selection Used for Flats Fishing

Flat fishing allows for a variety of baits, both live and artificial. Below are the most commonly used baits.

Live Bait 

Live bait fishing is a natural and clean method that does not produce unnecessary waste. The smell, movement, and texture of live bait are irresistible to fish, making it a popular choice. 

• Live Shrimp: A common choice, practical, and versatile, it attracts species such as Redfish, Shrimp, Sea Trout, and Bonefish. It is best to attach them to the tail or horn because they will be lively, i.e., perfect for various mounting methods such as popping corks or stud heads. 

• Crabs: Crabs, tiny blue and fiddler crabs, are irresistible for targeting Permit and Redfish. They can be placed on circle hooks and allowed to move naturally along the bottom. 

• Mullet: It is traditionally used to target Tarpon, Snook, and Redfish. It can be used live or cut, often free-standing or under a float.

• Pinfish: Pinfish are essential for targeting larger predators such as Tarpon and Snook. They usually hang through the back or lips, which allows them to swim naturally. 

• Sand Fleas: This species effectively targets pompano and other surf-dwelling species. They are presented on small hooks with light leaders close to the bottom. 

• Sardines: Sardines are versatile bait, and it's not wrong to always have them with you. They can be used live, dead, or as cut bait, free rigs, or fished under a float.

• Squid: The squid will effectively provoke the predatory instincts of Sea Trout, Redfish, and Snapper. It can be used whole or cut into strips, fished on a jig head, bottom platform, or under a float. 

The great advantage of live baits is that they are natural, which, with a good presentation, will dispel any doubt in the fish.

Artificial Bait 

Artificial bait is very popular and versatile in flat fishing. It offers a versatile and reusable alternative to live bait. Artificial bait is designed to mimic the appearance and movement of natural prey and is all quite realistic. 

• Soft Plastic Lures: Soft plastic lures imitate shrimp, crabs, and small fish. They can be set on weedless hooks and are effective for Redfish, Bream, and Sea Trout. 

• Hard Baits: This group includes Baits, lures, and topwater lures designed to resemble baitfish or other prey. You can target various species with them, emphasizing Tarpon, Snook, and Barracuda, providing realistic action and sound to attract strikes. 

• Flies: Flies are primarily used for species such as Bonefish, Permit, and Tarpon. They mimic shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish when cast accurately, offering a realistic display. 

• Jigs: Jigs come in various shapes, sizes, and colors and can be topped with soft plastics or regular fish. They are used in multiple techniques, and in flats fishing, they help catch a wide range of species, including Sea Trout, Redfish, and Snook.

Artificial lures are an adaptable and durable option for fishing on the flats, which provide the necessary precision and good imitation in different fishing scenarios.

Where to Go Flats Fishing

Only some types of shallow water are ideal for flat fishing and provide perfect conditions for targeting specific types of fish. Here are the most common flat fishing locations: 

Coastal Areas 

The coastal areas are the first choice of all anglers who like this type of fishing. Located along ocean and sea coasts, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, these areas offer spacious, shallow waters with sandy or grass bottoms where you can target Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit.

River Mouths and Estuaries 

River mouths and estuaries If you are a lover of freshwater flat fishing destinations, you will primarily find such locations at river mouths and estuaries. Often, these places are meeting points of sea and river water, so-called brackish environments where you can catch fish typical of these types of water: Snook, Tarpon, and even Bass.

Islands and Atolls 

Depending on where you are in what part of the world, most tropical islands, and atolls have spacious flats ideal for fishing giant Trevally and Milkfish. Besides unquestionable fishing opportunities, these are almost heavenly locations to enjoy stunning beauty.

Mangrove Flats 

These are, in fact, coastal flat swamps, extremely rich in marine life because such habitats provide shelter and feeding ground for many fish species. These areas are often found in tropical regions and are ideal for targeting Snook and Redfish species.

Flats Fishing Techniques

You understand by now that flat fishing techniques are narrowly adapted to shallow and vast waters. Whichever of the following methods you practice and love, they all come together because you need light but strong and sufficiently flexible gear.

Sight Fishing 

This technique is the main feature of flat fishing. It is appealing, even hypnotic, since you are focused and lost in a fishing world and water environment. The focus is on treading tropical flats and standing on platforms or skiffs that usurp the fish and their habitats even less.

When you spot a fish, you must become quieter and more invisible, cast as precisely as possible, and present the bait most naturally without disturbing the fish. Redfish, Snook, Sea Trout, and Tarpon are mostly caught this way. The real challenge lies in delicately luring fish without spooking them, making the moment the fish take the bait particularly rewarding.

Fly Fishing 

Fly fishing is one of the favorite flat fishing techniques, often interpreted as the most artistic of all forms of fishing. It involves casting a light artificial fly that imitates natural prey with the flick of a specialized fly rod and reel. Mastering the art of fly fishing on the flats lies in presenting the fly with delicacy and surgical precision. 

You can perfect this technique throughout your life because there is never a never-ending skill-hooning fishing story. What is also important is that you can practice it from boats, and depending on whether you are in salt or freshwater, you can catch species such as Trout, Bass, Bonefish, or Redfish.

Spin Fishing 

Spin fishing is another common technique used on flats. It is based on light to medium tackle and contains a spinning reel. It is mainly combined with baits such as soft plastics, jigs, and topwater but relies on spinner bait, a hybrid with a rotating blade that entices the fish to bite. 

When you wind the line backward, the lure blades rotate with the water's current, causing noises transmitted through the water and provoking predatory fish. Thanks to the spinning reel, this technique allows for longer casting and is effective in windy conditions where fishing could be challenging.

Polling 

Polling is a traditional, even somewhat primitive, technique that involves using a long pole to propel a skiff through shallow waters silently. The Pole must be 20 to 30 feet long, to which an elastic band is attached, and then a pole with a rope, a float, weights, and a hook. 

The pole above the water allows precise bait placement in the target spots. The elastic system absorbs shocks, making it easier to handle the fish. The depth is adjusted using the float. It is more practical for calmer freshwater waters.

Wading 

Wading is also old-fashioned but effective and fun. It is enough to put on the boots and slowly explore the flats by treading like that. Wading is a reliable and inconspicuous way to fish in the flats. This approach also allows going to deeper waters and combines it with fly fishing. It is mainly practiced in freshwater environments.

This technique allows for a more intimate connection with the environment and can be very effective, especially in areas that boats may not be able to reach. 

Chumming 

Chumming means spraying small amounts of bait into the water to intrigue and attract fish to the area. This technique can help attract fish closer to the boat or angler without sudden movements and agitation of the water. Although less common in clear flats waters due to the potential to spook fish, chumming can be effective under certain conditions and for certain species.

Final Thoughts

At the end of our exploration of flats fishing, we have nothing left but to thank you for being with us until the end! We have also given you valuable experience and insight into flat fishing types! 

Of course, we'd love to hear about your experiences and any additional tips you might have. We invite you to share your thoughts, questions, and favorite fishing stories in the comments below! As always, we are waiting for you impatiently!