Fly Fishing Basics

Fly fishing is an old and rather unique method ofdragonflies, mayflies or other insects that are
fishing that is typically used to capture variousresting. Dry flies are usually coated with a
species of trout in streams and rivers. However,waterproof material to ensure that the fly does
fly fishing can be used to catch many differentnot absorb enough water to sink. Both types of
kinds of fresh water fish, such as bass, salmon,flies are usually made with small hooks and very
or walleyes. Even some ocean species, such aslightweight materials in order to resemble the
striped bass and tarpon, can be hooked on theinsects of the area and to assist with flotation.
open water using an appropriate fly. In fact,Since the flies are so light in weight, fly casting
almost any species that feeds on surface-dwellingalso differs from casting other types of fishing
bugs or other critters may be good targets forlures. Neither wet nor dry flies have enough
anglers using this method. For this reason, flyweight to carry them forward a long distance, so
fishing allows a lot of flexibility in that it can becasting is performed by the angler developing a
done from a boat, from the shoreline, or wadingback-and-forth motion through the rod to the
out into a stream or river.fishing line, which is heavier than the line used for
Unlike most other methods of fishing that rely onother kinds of fishing. A strong rhythm and good
a natural or artificial bait set or pulled at variousline control can carry a fly quite a distance with
depths under the water's surface, fly fishing isgreat accuracy. The action and rhythm of a fly
typically done at or within a few inches of thefisherman casting can also be very artistic, and is
surface. Because of this, fly fishing equipment isone of the most distinct and attractive aspects of
somewhat different that other types of castingfly fishing.
or trolling equipment. The rods, reels, lures, andFor any angler - either novice or experienced -
even the line, are specialized for this type ofthat hasn't tried fly fishing, it is highly
angling.recommended. Fly fishing involves the fisherman
Fly fishing rods are usually quite long whenmuch more than trolling or "drowning worms." The
compared to other types of fishing rods. Theywater, the conditions, the potential hot spots
can range from approximately 6 feet to 14 or 15where a fish may be lying in wait must be
feet long. The reason for this is that the rod isconstantly watched and analyzed. Fly casting
used to whip the line - and the attached fly -takes practice and/or skill to master, and provides
back and forth in the air to get the greatestmore satisfaction that just dropping a lure behind
distance while casting. A longer, more flexible roda moving boat. And the lightweight, responsive
also provides more action when reeling the catchequipment used in fly fishing makes hooking and
in, giving the angler the ability to feel what the fishreeling in a fighting fish a memorable experience,
is doing - and to be honest - making theeven when the fish isn't that large. All in all, it can
experience much more fun.be considered one of the most enjoyable and
There are two basic types of fly fishing lures -relaxing sports available today.
wet flies and dry flies. Wet flies are designed tois a new blog created to bring you the latest
float just under the surface to emulate a bug thatnews, commentary, product reviews and
has recently drowned or a nymph (a young insectannouncements for all forms of outdoor sports
that has not reached maturity). Dry flies float onand recreation.
top of the water's surface, and resemble