Fly Fishing is an Art

Unlike bait-fishing and trolling, fly fishing is a carefully orchestrated movement that mimics a fly alighting on the surface of the water in the hopes of catching a gorgeous rainbow trout or largemouth bass.

Avid fly fishers have spent years practicing the 10-2 movement, carefully casting with just the right amount of snap to land the biggest fish in the river. It’s no easy feat. In fact, fly fishing is one of the most challenging fishing methods to learn, but it is well worth the time and effort. Many fly fishers also learn to tie their flies, and the results are intricate and functional.

If you’re interested in learning how to fly fish, we’ve put together a guide on how to get started. Remember, it takes practice. Don’t expect to buy a fly reel, walk out to a lake, and succeed on your first try.

• Do your research. Since fly fishing requires such exact movements and care of the line, you’ll want to not only read up on it but watch numerous how-to videos before you start. Many experts have shared their methods, and you want to listen to their advice.
• Choose a rod, reel, and line within your budget. There’s no reason to buy top-of-the-line equipment when you’re just getting started. Save that $500 set up for later on down the road.
• Set it up, and practice. Then practice some more. As I’ve mentioned, this method is very exact, and one wrong move can land you with a tangled line or a fly that isn’t hitting the water correctly. To be successful, you want to devote time and effort to perfecting your cast.
• Purchase a handful of flies to get started. Making your own requires a carefully orchestrated and well-stocked workspace. Save this for after you’ve perfected the art.
• Practice the knots required for tying your line correctly. Both the “double surgeon’s knot” and the “clinch knot” are excellent starting points.
• Catching a fish is one thing; removing it from the line is another. Make sure you’re fully prepared to get that monster trout off the line once you’ve hooked it.
• Invest in the proper attire. While it’s possible to fly fish from a bank, it’s much more effective mid-river. A good set of waders and non-slip boots are imperative. They should have felt along the bottom to ensure you don’t slip on the rocks.
• Research the best fly fishing areas near you, and make sure you have the proper fishing license. If you’re fishing for trout, most states require an extra trout stamp and have regulations about where and when you can fish, including what you can fish with. Your fishing trip can quickly become a nightmare if the DNR rolls up and you aren’t following the law.

If you’re genuinely interested and aren’t successful on your own, consider taking a class. Many fly fishing stores offer classes, and numerous guides offer weekend get-aways to give you an intensive learning experience. This is an excellent option for those who aren’t sure if this type of fishing is right for you. They provide everything you need, so the investment is basically in the knowledge, and they can guide you on what to purchase for your expeditions later.