The Baja's East Cape popularity has really boomed in recent years with the fly fishing crowd. No need to go into that but, with this new found popularity comes lots more pressure on the fish, the beaches and the overall Baja experience. Now, I’m not suggesting that this is a bad thing. I think it’s great for any and all fly angers to get out and give this fishery a serious effort. It will open the minds for the trout die hards and refine and improve the skills of the true saltwater fly fishing freaks.
Roosterfish are not easy to catch on the fly or on live bait for that matter. I can only compare trying to feed a fly to a big Rooster is like enticing a tiger to eat a watermelon. It can be done however the stars have to line up just right.
Now, smaller roosters are a bit more cooperative when casting a fly to them. They seem to have a more eagerness about them when eating the fly and are far less discriminate. So, for that reason these little rosters are the perfect Baja fly rod fish.
Targeting roosters is a pretty simple game. Find a beach where deep water pinches close to a beach, the presence of lots of bait and a knowledge of the tides and last but not least: a lot of patience. If the bait is present the roosters will show up….eventually.
Now lets talk tackle.
A solid 9 or 10 wt rod with an intermediate line and a 9 foot 20 lb florocabon leader will do the trick . Oh and don’t forget the stripping basket. You’ll thank me the fist time you run and gun your first rooster from the beach. No need to explain you'll understand when it happens.
How about flies?
Mullet patterns, sardines patterns; small, medium and large. Just make sure they are NOT dressed to heavily and the hooks are ultra sharp. Remember less is more when tying or buying flies for Roosterfish.
Baja's East cape is worth the trip. Make sure you go May- July to ensure prime time Roosterfish fly rod action!
Best
Conway
Where to stay
http://www.rancholeonero.com/
Who to fish with
www.baja-anglers.com
www.thereelbaja.com
