Getting started in fly fishing can be overwhelming. There are so many different styles of fishing and lots of gear that is designed for a very specific use.
The most important thing is to know what type of fishing you plan to do. The optimal gear for fishing on a large salmon river in Alaska differs greatly from the optimal gear for targeting small brook trout in a Pennsylvania creek. If you don’t know exactly what you would like to fish for, that is absolutely fine. Getting in touch with a local fly shop and asking them where a beginner should learn the basics is a really good idea. Remember that there is no such thing as a dumb
question, ask any question that comes to mind, the more you ask the faster you learn.
Here are some questions to ask, the answers will likely help you feel more comfortable buying fly fishing gear.
- What type of fish are most common in the area?
- What rod weight is best for the local fisheries?
- Do the local fish mainly eat other fish or do they eat insects?
- What kind of tactics (Indicator, surface flies, or streamers) are most productive?
- What size flies seem to work best?
- What is the largest size tippet that will work?
- Are the fish easily spooked?
- Do I need waders?
- How far will I need to cast?
- Do I need a reel with a strong drag?
- Will I be fishing in saltwater or freshwater?
- How deep should I be fishing?
These are some basic questions that should get you started and help you consider the different avenues of fishing to pursue. As you get comfortable with fly fishing gear and terminology, you’ll find that things become much easier. Keep in mind that everyone fishes differently. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment. Find the tactics that work for you!
If you’re confused about fly fishing gear swing by the shop or give us a call and remember, there are no bad questions.