Jet fighters on a fly rod

Think of a supersonic jet fighter. The sleek lines of the fuselage, the sheer power and the grace of its movement through the air. Pointed at the front like a spear with such thrust in the tail. Take the above properties and put it into water and you simply have the group of fish we refer to as the 'Billfish'; Black, Blue, Striped and White marlin, Sailfish, Spearfish, and Broadbill Swordfish.

When you watch for the first time any of the Billfish turn on a sixpence to feed on baitfish with such effortless ease it is truly mind blowing. There is no escape from these ruthless hunters.

Traditionally billfish have been caught on conventional tackle but over the last 10 years more and more people are taking up the challenge of catching these fish on a fly rod.

Everyone has their own ideas on what equipment should be used for the different species but the rule of thumb would be that for Sailfish, Spearfish and White Marlin a 12 weight rod would be most appropriate and for the other fish at least a minimum of a 14 weight or above.

Reels should have suitable backing of at least 500 yards with superior drags. Fly lines, leaders, shock tippet, class tippet must all be absolutely perfect as these fish will find the smallest kink in the armour. Let us not forget the business end of this entire operation, the fly. Flies can vary from 6 inches to 20 inch monsters.

With the changing times of this sport more and more skippers and crews worldwide have adapted their methods to raise, tease, and then allow the angler to hook these fish on the fly. Co-ordination, communication, team effort and experience are the key to casting and making catching this one of the most exhilarating forms of fly-fishing that anyone can experience.

I have yet to see a first time fisherman cast to a billfish, have the fish crawl all over the fly and whether they connect or miss the strike they inevitably end up quivering and shaking with sheer excitement.

Once a fish is hooked the fight can last for several hours after the long initial surges and runs at the beginning. It is always a danger time when the fish jumps but with a cool head and the angler keeping calm the situation can normally be overcome. The key to this type of angling is not to rush but to take your time and be patient. Once a fish has been played and brought along side the boat, conservation is key. International research on billfish and billfish stocks is still in its infancy. Tagging and releasing is vital if we are to learn more about habits, migration, breeding patterns and how these fish live day to day.

If you fancy the challenge of catching swimming 'jet fighters' with a fine piece of string and having the time of your life while you do it, with all the emotions that this type of fishing can bring - don't hesitate, get out there and give it a go! It's great!

Peter Gibson