I’m going to be in Flordia for the Daytona 500. So I figured I’d bring a rod for the surf.
Is Fl. one of the states that requires a salt water fishing lisence? If yes how much is a weekend lisence?
I have from 7-10 wt systems for salt which would be best for the Daytona surf? What if anything can I expect to catch out of the surf in mid Feb.? I assume i’d be well off with Clousers and Decievers. What would be the best choice of colors.
Thanks in advance,
Tom
FL does require a saltwater license. They are not overly expensive. You can find out by searching on line.
jed
The Merrit Island/Mosquito Lagoon area is not far down the road from Daytona
Just sayin’ 
This is probably not the best time to fish the surf with a fly as the fish are not as close to shore as they are in the warmer months. If you have waders, there are plenty of spots to wade the Mosquito Lagoon for reds and trout.
Capt. Chris Myers
Tom,
Being from up North you might not need waders. The water is not so cold by our standards. I was down in FLA about a month ago and was wading without any issue.
jed
Tom, bring the #9 weight just for the winds & anything that might take a fly. Reel should have 200 yards of #20 backing or #30 if you prefer. For fishing an intermediate line works better in the surf & a floater for the flats & backcountry. This time of year #1 & #2 hooks are probably best. A few crab patterns & some EP baitfish flies are good additions to the Clousers & deceivers, probably in chartreuse over white & white over white or off-white & Flats Dudes’ Golden bendback for the backcountry. Non-Resident licenses for 3 days saltwater are $6.50, but ask for the $2.00 snook stamp since they are in season even though they’re in the backcountry. Freshwater licenses are sold seperately. Not sure what’s on the other coast at that time of year, but probably similar to what’s over here except they have schoolie dolphin :!: 8)
A month ago, our water was in the 70’s. Last week it was in the 40’s and this week it ranged from 52-60. Most of our water is very shallow and one cold night causes the temps to drop quickly.
Just wanted to say thanks for the info and advise.
Sorry to say I didn’t get to fish, with temps in the morning in the 20s’ and highs only getting into the 50s in the afternoon at which time we were at the track I never got to wet a line. It was like the weather followed us from NY.
Tom
Of course, as soon as you left, the cold followed you back. It’s been beautiful this week with 70’s and 80’s and tons of hungry fish.
That’s what happens in Florida, usually when the college bowl games are scheduled. All those from up north bring the weather with them & when they open their luggage & car trunks all at one time the temperature changes :!: :lol: :lol: