Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

681 | Christmas Island Fly Fishing with Rick Lee - Hawaii, Bonefish, Captain Cook

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Episode notes

Presented By: On DeMark Lodge, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Heated Core, Angler's Coffee

Rick Lee, Hawaiian fly fishing master and saltwater expert, is back on the podcast, and today, we're diving into the waters of Christmas Island and Hawaii.

Rick’s got the scoop on where to find the biggest bonefish, and he’s sharing some tips on how to DIY your fly fishing trips across Hawaii. We also dive into the crazy world of triggerfish. Ever wonder why they’re called that?

Plus, he’s got some wild stories about Captain Cook’s adventures (and how he met his end in Hawaii).

Show Notes with Rick Lee on Christmas Island Fly Fishing.

02:33 - We catch up with Rick Lee since our last chat in Episode 116. Rick is still guiding out of O‘ahu while raising his kids.

We also discuss the challenges and progress of conserving Hawaii's coastal ecosystems. He said he's helping educate visitors about protecting the bonefish and other species.

07:26 - We catch up with Rick about his time in Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was in Christmas Island when things started to get serious and had a narrow escape, catching the last flight home before the island closed for nearly three years.

He said tourism in Hawaii took a huge hit, but the silver lining was there was no traffic, no crowds, and empty surf spots.

Fishing in Hawaii: What You Need to Know

09:52 - Rick shares some helpful tips for those planning a trip to Hawaii. He said that while Hawaii isn't a top destination for fly fishing, it’s a great activity to add to your vacation, especially if you’re looking for a few hours of fishing before the family wakes up.

Oahu has some of the world’s biggest bonefish, but with so many people and tourists, the fishing pressure is high. But Rick still recommends bringing your gear out for an adventure.

Aside from bonefish, Rick says you can also fish for triggerfish and some varieties of goatfish.

12:37 - Rick shares that Oahu has flats around the whole island, but winter can bring dangerous surf on the north and west shores, while the south shore gets more giant waves in the summer.

For those looking for specific spots, Rick recommends contacting his team for personalized advice based on where you’re staying.

Gear Rick suggests using a 7 or 8-weight rod, a floating fly line, and a tapered leader. For flies, crazy Charlie patterns in tan, brown, or orange work well, as do mantis shrimp patterns.

17:28 - Rick talks about catching some really big bonefish in Hawaii, with some reaching over 30 inches! The average fish on their charters weighs around 5 pounds, but you can catch ones that are 7-10 pounds pretty often.

22:53 - Rick explains that Hawaii’s warm water temps stay consistent all year, from the mid-seventies to low eighties. This means you can fish for bonefish pretty much any day of the year. However, late summer and fall can bring rainy weather and strong winds, making fishing tougher. But if you’re up for a challenge, the fishing is still great year-round.

Casting in the Wind

23:54 - Rick says the key is to slow down and keep your stroke smooth and powerful. He also recommends casting sidearms to help the fly cut through the wind more efficiently.

When it comes to rods, it’s all about personal preference, but fast or medium-fast action rods work best for wind and saltwater fishing.

As for fly lines, shorter, quicker shooting lines are great for windy days, while longer lines help with delicate casts when the conditions are better.

27:25 - Rick says there used to be a fly shop called Nervous Waters in Hawaii, but it closed down when the owner retired. If you’re heading to Hawaii, you must bring everything you need.

Fishing at Christmas Island

36:40 - Rick shares about Christmas Island, a remote spot south of Hawaii, where you can fish in a beautiful 145-square-mile lagoon. It’s known for its incredible fishing variety, from bonefish and triggerfish to big tuna and sailfish.

Triggerfish can grow up to 20 pounds and live in coral forts with special defenses. Rick talks about how tricky it is to catch them, but with the proper techniques, it’s one of the world's best places for trigger fishing.

Rick explains that a Christmas Island day isn’t just about targeting one fish species. You could start with milkfish, which travel in huge schools, and then switch to offshore fishing for tuna or sailfish. After that, it’s back to the lagoon to target bonefish and triggerfish. And when you think it’s over, giant trevally might pop up.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/681