Hi all
off to sw scotland early september, idea was largely to river fish but have been investigating sea fishing (rock and pier) which i have no experience of.
Could do with a little advice about gear.
I've read (somewhere) that if i use a graphite reel it is saltproof - is this correct? and also do i need a saltwater fly line - i'd look at using one of two unused and unwanted freshwater rods, 9ft and 10ft, 6/7 and overlining by one. Reason i don't want to purchase new gear right now is 1) empty purse and 2) don't know if it's branch of the sport i'd be pursuing regularly due to location.
Lastly - looking at pollack,cod, mackerel - which flies do you suggest? i've got some clousers.
thanks, grey

You could be excused for assuming that a "graphite" reel is salt-water proof - and, indeed it may be so. However, it may well have some metal components (probably inside where they are not immediately apparent) and there is a fair chance that these will be susceptible. The answer to this is to make sure that you wash out well in freshwater after use. Preferably take apart, and dry as well. Lines need not be specialist saltwater lines - in tropical situations, the correct lines are vital, but for occasional use in british saltwaters you will have little trouble with lines designed for freshwater use. Overlining has some advantages in terms of getting your flies nearer to where you want them (rarely near enough in my experience - the sea is a big bit of water) but another "trick" is to make sure that you use line cleaner regularly. Not only will thus clean off the deposits of salt which can drastically curtail casting distance, but most will add distance due to their lubricating properties. Some people have their own magic potions - mine is a liberal coating of Mer car polish, well dried off. I've never wrecked a line with this, but I offer no guarantees! Scientific Anglers also do a good cleaner which lubricates, and there are plenty of others. Clousers make an excellent start - take a variety of sizes, colours and weights, and you won't go far wrong. I like to have a few crazy charlies with heavy bead eyes, which can be very effective for flatties if you find a spot with a clean, sandy bottom. Just pretend you're after bonefish, and you may well find a decent flounder or plaice attached. Best of luck.

Thanks Cubera all useful stuff - i've got an ancient pot of Mer in the shed so i'll dig out a cheap(ish) line and get it coated before i go on hols.
Really quite excited about this new foray into the unknown - been watching some clips on you tube and it looks like fun!
thanks again grey