Milkfish

Unlike most flats species that pursue their prey, milkfish sit in feeding lanes and collect small bits of algae. So, rather than stripping the fly, anglers must make a very accurate presentation and drift it into the dash, akin to the way one might deliver nymph patterns to a feeding trout. This species is incredibly difficult to fool and proves vexing to many anglers. However, the challenge makes them a worthy adversary and their explosive fighting nature make them a prized catch.

Gear Overview

Flyrod

9 to 10 weight fast-action rods, such as the Sage Salt, Scott Meridian or Hardy Pro-Axis.

(Our Pick) Scott Meridian, 909-4

Reel

Saltwater reels are extremely important, especially for milkfish and their blistering runs. We recommend a high-end reel with a superior drag holding 300 yards of 30-40lb backing. Match the reel to the appropriate rod weights above. Top brands are Hatch, Tibor and Nautilus.

(Our Pick) The Hatch Finatic 9-Plus

Lines

A versatile, weight-forward floating line is ideal. Choose from the many great salwater-specific tapers available from SA and RIO.

(Our Pick) Lines from the Scientific Anglers. We prefer the Mastery Series.

Leaders/Tippet

12 ft. 20lb. tapered fluorocarbon leaders are your best bet. You need it to be light enough to fool them but heavy enough to keep them out of the coral heads.