In the lead up to the second annual Orvis Beginners Saltwater Weekend, we wanted to interview the festival guides about their experiences, what they hope to see at this year’s event and their top tips! Today we hear from Philip Spratt who we are lucky enough to have had on board since our very first Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival in 2020.
How did you come to be involved in the BSW?
Through attending the St Mawes festival and meeting the Orvis team through my participation in that festival and being asked if I would be happy to support, which I was delighted to do.
What are you hoping the attendees will take away/learn from this year's event?
My hope is that attendees will see the exciting opportunities that the coastline offers to the fly fisherman, and the fact that you don’t just need freshwater to use a fly rod.
What would be your top tip for a saltwater beginner?
The number one tip is to learn how to double haul. It is an essential skill in the salt and one that can be transferred to freshwater.
What are you personally hoping to bring to the event?
My number one hope is to bring my passion for saltwater fly fishing, to enjoy the environment and embrace the challenges. My fishing journey started as a young boy fishing in saltwater using conventional bait fishing and starting fly fishing in saltwater saw me return to my roots. There are many dimensions to consider - species, tactics, tides (spring and neap) and finding locations. Fishing for truly wild fish is a joy. Oh, and it’s free!
What would be your go to kit list for bass and mullet?
I have an 8# Orvis H3 for bass and have a first generation hydros reel. I have a hydros saltwater floating line and an intermediate, both of which I have had for a number of years. After my experience with the H3 I’ll be looking to get a 6# H3. I have too hydros reels for the 6#, with hydros saltwater floating and intermediate lines. I use the floating line for mullet and the intermediate for bass if it’s not too windy.
