Gonzaga Fly Fishing help

[Gr8fuldude]

Hey Domtesta,

I'll be going on this trip also. Last year in October in Gonzaga I had a blast catching foaming skipjacks in the 4 to 8 pound range on my nine weight, every single fish took me into my backing and provided a great fight. I didn't catch anything bigger than those skippies, but lawdie they were great fun.

Fast forward, I broke my nine weight this spring and bought an 8 weight echo rod for my next trip down. I think it'll get the job done against the skippies (I do have a nicer reel this time). Personally I think a 12 weight would be too big for what you are likely to catch down there. I think anything from an 8 to 10 weight is about right. Maybe some of the other Gonzaga flyfishers will weigh in on their opinion.

See you in Gonzaga!

Paul

[Mike scales]

8-10 weight you should be fine. Although we did encounter 25-30lb Jack Crevally foaming around us at one point where I think a 12 weight would be mandatory against these beasts. Also, steel leaders. Tons of Sierras there, they will saw you off unless you have that steel leader. Floating and sinking line to cover all water columns. Can't wait to go end of October! I plan on bringing my vise and some materials to match the hatch.
Tight lines!

[makobob]

The fish, including sierra are targeting micro bait. 1-2 inchers, so most flys will work, most of these minnows are pretty transparent. Wire leaders do not seem to slow the bite, these fish when hungry are not too picky. Size matters, but larger baits will till get bit. 8-10 weight tackle will handle most fish. Reels need a smooth drag. I fish only a sinking line. It seems to cover most situations for me. Last week we got a skipjack tuna, had reports of dorada inside island, saw big schools of roosterfish crashing 12 inch mullet on the beach in front of our place. Guys cooling off in the water had them swim right through them. Sun glasses, sun screen and face masks and hats are a must. Can be cool in the evenings, I have fire wood. Tight Lines.