Helicon Backcountry Charters

Catch and release angling on the flats of the Florida Keys requires several key ideas and methods. Aboard the Helicon we feel we address these in a totally professional and unpressured way. The goal here is to give you the best possible opportunities to catch that sought after trophy fish and release it to be caught again, without the undo pressures often associated with this type of sport. We are prepared to help the total novice as well as the angler who has fished for many years. We also realize that angler capabilities combined with weather, tides and the like, present situations that vary greatly, often from day to day. With this in mind, each day's fishing is tailored to factor in all the variables and to hopefully give you the best situations under which to fish. What we want more than all else is for you to remember and treasure your experiences aboard the Helicon and to return many times as a friend. You will be exposed to a lot of wildlife and ecological views and experiences along with the fishing. It is quite necessary to understand and be exposed to things that shape and affect our environment here and ultimately affect the health of our fisheries and marine ecosystems. We are a very environmentally aware business and have been since beginning in 1977. Saltwater fly fishing is among the fastest growing types of angling, and realizing this over the past years we have attempted to improve and adapt new methods to make your fly fishing trip as easy and unpressured as possible. In a field that is constantly introducing new tackle and techniques, we strive to accomplish a blend of the old tried and true and the new technologies. Realizing also that increasing numbers of guides, anglers and boats are beginning to put stress on the fisheries, we don't always fish the way everyone else fishes. If it takes more effort to produce, we always provide that effort. With over 25 years in the professional fly fishing business, we know the needs of the fly rodder and how best to work with the elements you will face. We will supply all tackle, flies and leaders if needed. All the flies we tie are cutting edge patterns which are constantly being improved, tested and redesigned to fit any situation, and are always fished barbless. You may of course bring along your own tackle and we encourage you to do so. We all have favorite outfits that we are most comfortable using and that can be helpful for you. Generally you won't have to place a fly more than 45-50 feet from the boat, and often 30-40 feet will do. Having said that, you must realize that the angler who can throw 90-100 feet in excellent conditions will usually have no trouble with the shorter casts in the wind. The angler with a 50 foot maximum cast will have some difficulty in the wind. Very long casts are usually not necessary, but the very long caster does definitely have an advantage. We realize that not everyone is an expert and we all had to start somewhere. We therefore encourage first timers as well as the most experienced flyfishermen and women to come fish with us. Patience and helpful guidance are so important in this business and our reputation is based on both. We want you to leave here excited, educated, relaxed, full of great memories and wanting to return again and again.