If you’re thinking of trying your luck at fly fishing, here are some tips to help make your first time out all the more enjoyable.
First of all, don’t let the “myth” of fly fishing spook you. You know that myth: that fly fishing is a sublime art, quite difficult and truly mastered only by a very few.
Instead, understand that fly fishing has become extremely popular in recent years, with many fly fishing companies now offering affordable lessons. In fact, you may find that your first fly fishing outing takes place in a fishery instead of a swiftly moving river.
As you research the gear you’ll need to buy, look for a combo — a rod, line, reel, and a few flies. This will be much less expensive than purchasing these items separately.
While you don’t need to buy the “best” or most expensive equipment for your first time, you should know that the type of fly rod you get is very important. You can save money on this crucial item when you purchase it in a combo deal
Don’t worry about getting outfitted in everything a fly fisherman could possibly need. All you really need is mentioned in the combo advice, above. In addition, you’ll also need a landing net, a priest (a blunt instrument for killing fish quickly), a bit of mono filament, and a good pair of nail clippers to cut the mono filament. This is really all you need for your first try at fly fishing.
You’ll want to be sure you dress properly, of course. Steer clear of bright colors (they can scare the fish). Green is a good color, but other than a fishing waistcoat (the vest with all the pockets), you really don’t need anything else.
You may want to invest in polarized sun glasses, however. These can help you see the fish in the water and — far more importantly — protect your eyes from the stray flies/hooks that can come at you.
Many experienced fly fisherman will tell you to stay in one spot for only about 30 minutes. If you haven’t caught anything in that amount of time, move on to another place on the river/stream.
Finally, don’t worry about trying to master the art of long casting your first time trying out fly fishing. Many fish — often the biggest — lie near the river’s bank, especially under branches that hang over the water. You can easily bag some great fish right near the shore. Let the fly fishing “show offs” long cast in the middle of the river while you hook the big ones!
About the Author: Aaron Garcia is a fishing enthusiast who has taken fly fishing trips around the country including Montana, California and Colorado. His best experiences, however, have come on the ranch properties of Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
