Dale Perez

Years Fishing?

63

Years Guiding?

48

Who introduced you to fly fishing?

My Father instilled in me a life-long love of angling. Now, for many, many years I share my enthusiasm with clients and friends.

Can you tell us a little about your home waters and the fish you pursue there?

I fish the pristene waters from Biscayne Bay through Key West, and Everglades National Park. My guiding, targets Tarpon, Bonefish,Permit, Snook,Redfish and Sea Trout.

What's the height of the season for you? What time of year is your personal favorite?

The height my guiding season is March through July. I love to pursue Permit on fly. My favorite time for that is July through October. I also love to fish for Snook during that same time period.

What are your favorite travel destinations? What's on the bucket list?

I have traveled to Argentina to fish for Golden Dorado. I have also traveled to Montana to trout fish. Alsaka providing amazing experiences catching Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Artic Char and Grayling. I would love to fish Australia and the Seychelles.

What you like most about Thomas and Thomas rods? Which rods do you fish?

Thomas and Thomas rods have the power I need to deliver the fly to my targeted species. They are well-crafted light and beautifully designed. Typically I fish 8wts. through 11wts.

What's your current go-to fly?

That would depend on what species I am fishing for. For Tarpon, I use a Chartrues toad, for Permit my invention/desgin, 'Dale's Permit Assasinator.' When fishing Snook, Redfish, and Trout, a white deceiver. My choice for Bonefish I use a shrimp pattern.

Other than fly tackle, what piece of gear do you find indispensable?

High quality Polaroid sunglasses are indispensible.

My favorite thing about guiding is:

My favorite thing about guiding are the many wonderful relationships I have developed over many years of guiding. I love to be a part of the thrill of watching anglers catch their targeted species, and knowing that I had a part in helping them make the catch.

From the angler’s point of view, what do you see as the main value of going on a guided trip?

Anglers benefit and maximize their opportunities by fishing with an experienced guide who knows where, when and how to go for the targeted species.

What can new fisherman expect to get out of a guided trip? My favorite thing to teach a client is ...

I enjoy providing an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives. We often encouter Manatees, Bottlenose Dolphin, Sea turtles, and amazing bird life. My degree in zoology adds their enjoyment of nature and breathing clean, fresh salt air. My top goal is give tips on how to catch the fish we are pursuing.

What's your ideal lunch when on the water? What do you actually pack?

I pack a sandwich, fresh fruit, potato chips if desired and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

What fly fishing blogs/magazines do you read regularly?

Fly Fisherman Magazine, The Drake.

When I'm not fishing you'll find me:

Bow Hunting, gardening, traveling to interesting places. I love the mountains.

  • Dale Perez
  • Dale Perez
  • Dale Perez
  • Dale Perez