Saltwater fly fishing opens up an entirely new way to experience the coast, and you do not need a full kit overhaul to step into it. Many trout outfits already have everything required to make that first cast in the salt. Whether you are joining us for the festival or planning your own first adventure, here is a simple guide to the essentials.
Bass and Mullet: Two Fish, Two Approaches
Bass are the thrill seekers’ favourite. They hit flies hard and they’re rarely fussy about what they eat. The real challenge is finding them, as bass don’t always reveal themselves easily.
Mullet behave very differently. They’re easy to locate on beaches, estuaries, harbours and almost any shallow water. What makes them tricky is their caution. Mullet are selective and often inspect a fly more than once before deciding. When it all comes together, though, they are incredibly rewarding.
The reassuring part is that both species can be targeted with kit you may already own.
Your Beginner-Friendly Kit List
Bass:
A 9 ft 8 wt rod is the classic choice for bass. It gives you the power to cast in the wind and turn over larger baitfish flies. But you don’t need to rush out and buy one.
A reservoir-style 10 ft 7 wt trout rod works brilliantly in the salt and is commonly used by UK anglers. Even lighter trout outfits can land bass. The only limitation is how well they can cast a medium baitfish pattern.
What you need:
• A 9 ft 8 wt rod, or your 7 wt trout set-up
• A trout reel
• Weight-forward floating line, plus an intermediate or sinking option
• A 9 ft tapered leader at 16 lb, preferably fluorocarbon
• One spool of 16 lb tippet
• A small selection of saltwater flies: baitfish, Clousers and Deceivers in sizes 4, 2 and 1. Chartreuse, blue, white, grey and orange all work well. Adding a surface fly, such as a Blue Slider or gurgler, opens up more exciting fishing
Mullet: Subtle, Simple and Surprisingly Addictive
Mullet reward a lighter, more delicate approach. A 9 ft 6 wt is ideal, although a standard 9 ft 5 wt trout rod works well too.
What you need:
• A 6 wt rod, or your 5 wt trout outfit
• A trout reel with a smooth drag
• A weight-forward floating line
• A 9 ft tapered leader at 12 lb, plus 5 ft of 10 lb tippet
• One spool of 10 lb tippet
• Small shrimp patterns in sizes 12 to 14
Other Useful Kit
Whether you’re attending the festival or fishing your local coastline, the following items make life easier:
• Landing net
• Rucksack, sling pack or waist bag
• Chest, thigh or waist waders and boots
• Waterproof jacket
• Fleece or warm layer
• Sun cream
• Nippers and a hook removal tool
• Polarised sunglasses for visibility and eye protection
• Safety glasses for night sessions
• Head torch
• Portable power bank
Looking After Your Kit
Saltwater is tough on gear, but a good rinse after each session goes a long way. Wash your rod and soak your reel in fresh water before leaving them to dry. Rinse waders, boots, jackets and even your flies. Removing salt crystals prevents corrosion and keeps everything performing as it should.
Saltwater fly fishing is accessible, exciting and a brilliant next step for anyone who already loves fly fishing. With the kit you already own and a few coastal-ready essentials, you’ll be well prepared for bass, mullet and everything the tide brings.
If you would like to build confidence with your kit and learn directly from our community of guides, join us at the Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival from 2nd – 5th July 2026. Book your ticket now.
