If you are interested in fly fishing, there are several things that you will want to have to be able to fish correctly. Having all your essentials is imperative so that you can catch what you want to and have a great time.
Fishing License
Before you start fishing, it is imperative to have a fishing license for your state. If you do not have your fishing license and a game warden comes to you, you could face serious fines and could even face jail time in some instances. On top of having your fishing license, you will want to make sure that you know all the laws in your area about fishing. There are certain fish that may not be allowed to be fished during certain times of the year, and there may be weight limits to what you can catch. Knowing these things will help you to be legal while fly fishing.
Fly Rod
Once you have your license and know the laws, you can work on getting your Fly Fishing Gear. The first thing you will want to purchase is your fly rod. There are several different weights of rods out there, and which one you purchase will depend on what kind of fish you want to fish for.
Fly Reel
When you purchase a fly rod, you will also need a flywheel. You will want to make sure that you get the right reel that matches the weight of your rod.
Fly Line Backing
You will want to make sure that you have a fly line to your reel arbor before adding any line to your reel. This helps to serve as a backup if your fish decides to take a long swim. It also helps to prevent your fly line from wrapping too tightly, as that can cause kinks and memory coils. The fly line backing should be at least 100 yards.
Fly Line
When choosing your fly line, you must choose it based on what your rod weighs. There are many different types of lines to choose from. Since you are a beginner, you will want to choose a weight floating line.
Leader
You will want to have a leader on your reel once you attach your fly line. The leader should be about nine to ten feet. You should build your own tapered leader, or you can purchase one. If you are constructing your own leader, make sure that you are using the heaviest material for the section that is attached to your fly line first.
Flies
Flies will help to entice your fish to bite, and you will need to ensure that you have good flies. The two best flies to get for a beginner are the topwater popping bug and the Clouser minnow pattern. These choices are great for both saltwater and freshwater.
Line Snips
You will want to have a pair of line snips in your fishing gear. This will help to make it easier to change out your fly and change out your leader.
Hemostat
When you catch your fish, you will need to remove the hook, and this can be done with a hemostat. A hemostat can be used to soften the barbs on your hooks, making it safer if you plan on catching and releasing.
Safety Equipment
If you are fly fishing from a boat, you will want to make sure that you are wearing Coast Guard Approved PFD. If you are fly fishing in a stream or river, you will want to learn how to use your waders correctly. Waders can be different and made specifically for certain types of water. You will also want to make sure that you have sunglasses, gloves, a cell phone, and more. You should also tell a loved one where you will be fly fishing and what time you expect to return. This can help to ensure that someone always knows where you are at in case you become lost or injured.
Fly fishing is an excellent sport where you can have fun and also catch fish to eat. Having the right equipment as a beginner will help to ensure that you are able to fish when you want to. If you are just getting started in fly fishing, make sure that you read up on the sport and learn how to do it well.
- Polarized Sunglasses: Good-quality polarized sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and help you see fish in the water.
- Fly Fishing Books or Guides: Consider reading beginner-friendly fly fishing books or hiring a fly fishing guide to learn casting techniques, basic entomology, and fish behavior.
Before you head out on the water, practice your casting skills in an open area to become familiar with the fly rod’s motion. With the right gear and a little practice, fly fishing can become a lifelong passion that connects you with nature and brings you closer to the fish you seek.