Most saltwater flats destinations are in remote and isolated locations, which means that its always a good idea to bring everything with you that you will need for
your fly-fishing trip.

Below is a list of items that I always have with me before I step into a skiff to go flats fishing for the day. 

Good quality rain gear

Like with a float day trip, this is the number one item and is a critical piece of gear. Not only will a good raincoat keep you dry but it will also keep you warm. I once got stuck in a four-hour rainstorm in Punta Gorda Belize without a raincoat and was hyperthermic within 2 hours. Not smart. I always have a raincoat with me!

Fishing tools

A good set of pliers, forceps, durable nippers, a nail knot tool, a hook sharpener, a compass

Thick soled flats boots

This will kind of depend on where you are going. In places like the Seychelles, Turneffe, Belize and Christmas Island, you will need thick soled boots. In places like Ascencion Bay Mexico, and most of the Bahamas, where there is not a lot of wading, you don’t need heavy duty flats boots. Make sure to get a boot that offers ankle support. A lot of wading is in uneven terrain and a sprained ankle can ruin a trip. Ankle support is really important!

Back up Polarized Sunglasses

Glasses can break or fall overboard. Having a back up pair in a hard case in your flats box is just smart. Amber/yellow/copper for cloudy days and green/blue lenses for clear days.

A good fishing hat

It will both keep the sun off you and cut down on glare. Underside dark billed hats are best for reducing glare.

Flies and Tippet

A lot of flats locations do not have easy access to a fly shop or mail order service so you will need to bring your own flies and tippet. I travel with everything from 8 pound tippet up to a spool of 100 pound for GT’s and tarpon.

A spool of 30 and 40-pound wire

For toothy critters. I love to fly fish for big ‘cudas so a spool or two of wire is essential.

Wading pack with water bottle

Sunscreen

Minimum of 30 SPF and probably better with 50. Make sure it is waterproof. The sun can really cook you out on the flats and most flats skiffs do not have overhead sun protection.

Bug Spray

Tropical environments and especially mangroves can be loaded with both no-see-ums and mosquitos. Bug spray is always in my fly box.

Camera

Remember to bring a camera or your iPhone.

Medications

Tylenol or Advil if you have back issues or sore knees. If you are allergic to wasps and bees, an Epipen should be in your pack where its easy to access.

Snacks

Some pre packaged snacks like beef jerky and granola bars, just in case