Need help with sailfish

[Phil42518]

I'll be traveling to Zihuatanejo, Mexico in a couple of months to fish for sails, and I wanted to spend at least one day trying with a flyrod. Trouble is, I don't know squat about fishing for sails, and I have several questions. Will be using the 12 wt. I use for tarpon, will I need a floating line, or can I get by with the intermediate sink that I have??? Also, can anyone give me any ideas on how to construct the leader?? ie 100lb shock?? how long?? Lastly, what's the best way trigger the strike and set the hook?? Imediately? Let the fish turn? Strip set?? Thanks much, hope some kind soul can help. If you know of any articles I can look up, I'd appreciate that too. Good luck.

[adrian]

Hi Phil

Just came accross your post. I would recommend Trey Combs book - Bluewater Flyfishing. Covers all major species including sails, techniques etc. Check out Amazon.com for best price.

Good luck - Adrian

[tomas]

I'd reco you use a 8 ft leader (60#-40#-20# tippet(15 inches)-80lb shock (12 inches). Connect the tippet to the shock with an albright. I've done well pulling 3 moldcraft wide ranges with an extra skirt - 2 from flat lines and one on rigger opposite casting side at about 7-8 knots. Tease the fish all the way to the boat, yank the teaser and throw the fly just beyond and to the side of the fish. You want the going away bite, otherwise you'll get a bill set and it'll come loose. In terms of fly line, floating is fine, and you can cut it down to 60 ft. That'll create less tension on the tippet on a long run. Also, keep a 50lb outfit ready in case a blue marlin shows, or you can throw the fly at her too.