Q I usually fish for brown trout with a small fly rod is this a problem ?
A No - we will help you adjust your style for each species
Q I am worried about using heavier fly rods, flies & lines
A You will find that after a few minutes casting with a larger fly and a little guidance from Max you will quickly find your your natural timing and rhythm.
Q I do not usually cast long distances - will I need to double haul ?
A First and foremost - we fly fish for enjoyment. Your casting is not under scrutiny and we do not adopt a judgmental attitude. A straightforward overhead cast will serve you well in all situations. NO FANCY CASTING REQUIRED ! On occasions a long cast can be useful but is by no means essential to catch fish and enjoy your fly fishing in Thailand. If you like to double haul and throw long lines - great ! When fishing from a boat, Max will discreetly direct the boatman to adopt a position which will suit your comfortable casting distance. When fly fishing from the bank, Max knows where the fish lie within your comfortable casting range and will guide you accordingly. Remember, fly fishing with us is not a test of casting ability or endurance - it’s about enjoyment and personal fulfilment. We use stealth and experience to approach and catch the quarry.
Q If I bring only one fly rod & fly reel - what would you recommend ?
A A 9-wt saltwater fly rod will cover most situations. It is light enough to allow a days casting without undue fatigue and will handle most species except for very large predators. Match it with an oversize fly reel, for example a Tibor Riptide, to hold lots of backing. Complete this with a floating, intermediate or intermediate sink tip and fast sinking line.
Q I would like to fly fish for large Arapaima but do not have a large rod
A We recommend at least a 12 wt, a 13 wt Sage Xi2 Saltwater fly rod is ideal. We keep a 13 wt Xi2 Saltwater fly rod and Tibor Gulfstream fly reel for your use when fishing for Arapaima. There is no additional charge for this.
Q Why do you recommend saltwater fly rods ?
A Because saltwater fly rods are designed to throw larger flies like the flies we use. They are also designed to deal with larger, hard fighting fish - the fish we catch !
Q Will I need rainwear ?
A Yes - but you can forget the fancy expensive goretex stuff. In our experience a simple military style ground sheet / poncho is best. It is quick easy to take on and off - you need only poke your head through the hole !. When sitting in the boat, it covers all of your body, legs and feet. Put your tackle bag between your legs to keep your fly fishing gear dry. Condensation is not a problem. Cheap and effective. We keep them available for our guests to use.
Q Will I need waders ?
A No, we fly fish from boats and banks. We do not wade. Comfortable shoes or sandals are sufficient.
Q What colour Polaroid lenses are best for fly fishing in Thailand ?
A Anything but grey or blue. Max uses medium amber in large Ray Ban aviator style frames
Q Are there fly fishing shops in Thailand ?
A Only our fly shop. We sell RIO fly lines, tippet, wire tippet, accessories and Flies. Fly rods and fly reels are not available in Thailand.
Q What fly fishing accessories / gadgets should I bring with me to Thailand ?
A All the gear you are comfortable fly fishing with. We have no restrictions on how much gear you can bring when fly fishing with us.
Q Should I bring any of my trout fly fishing tackle ?
A The smallest size tropical line available is a 6 wt. A 6 wt fly rod can be used when fishing for Java Barb and Nile Tilapia.
Q What flies should I bring to fly fish in Thailand ?
A Bring all of your flies. For example - Tarpon, Bass Popper, Bluewater, Streamers, Large Tubes, Salmon and Salt Poppers all have their uses. Poppers with weed-guards are important. The Enrico Puglisi style baitfish with Rattles are ESSENTIAL to bring with you - they are not available here in Thailand.