Fly Fishing for Beginners: 4 Useful Tips for Getting Started
Over 7.8 million people practice the sport of fly fishing in the United States. The sport's relative solitude and requirement for focus make it a great way to relax. Professionals from ecologists to neuroscientists have praised its effects.
Yet, of all the types of fishing, fly fishing can be the most daunting. It has a reputation for being more challenging than spin fishing. But that doesn't mean it's impossible for a beginner to enjoy the sport.
With a little knowledge, you can start enjoying this rewarding hobby. Get ready to dive in with this guide to fly fishing for beginners.
Fly Fishing for Beginners: Overview
The relief many feel out on the water has made outdoor sports more popular than ever in these tumultuous times.
Surveys of young adults show far higher rates of participation in fly fishing this year than in any year prior. In interviews, students point to the sport as a way to connect with nature and with their families.
What Is Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing is a popular type of angling. It uses a lightweight lure, or "fly," as bait. Fly fishing uses a specialized fly rod and a weighted line.
You can fly fish in the open ocean, in lakes, or in streams. It's an effective method for catching salmon, trout, and grayling, among other fish.
What Are the Benefits of Fly Fishing?
The greatest benefit of fly fishing is focused relaxation.
In 2008, the Benson-Henry Institute published a study of fly fishing's impact on the body. Researchers discovered fly fishing induces a physiological "relaxation response": the hormonal opposite of the "stress response."
Fly fishing evoked this relaxation response in study participants. After eight weeks of practice, 50% of people in the study were able to lower the dosage of their blood pressure medications.
What Types of Fly Fishing Gear Do You Need to Get Started?
To learn how to start fly fishing, you need the right tools. Talk to local fishermen or guides to learn what works best in your region. At the very least, you will need:
A fly rod
A fly reel
A weighted fly fishing line, including:
Backer
Tippet
Leader
An array of choice flies
Four Fly Fishing Tips
Fly fishing gets easier with practice. But, when you first start out, there's a lot to learn. Here are four tips to get off to a solid start.
1. Choose the Right Flies
The right flies mimic the local insects accurately. Use a dip net to catch nymphs and emerging insects, then examine them. It's also a good idea to observe insects flight patterns on the water's surface, to mimic.
You can also learn by talking to other fly fishers, and by doing something as simple as turning over stones.
2. Master Big, Easy Ties First
If you master the big easy ties first, you'll have the confidence and skill to tackle something harder. Woolly buggers, Woolly Worms, and Montanas are all smart choices to start with.
Try practicing at home by watching tutorial videos, or learn from pros at your local bair shop.
3. Consider Your Location
Fish tend to hole up in certain places to save energy. Cast upstream of the places you suspect fish to be hiding. Current seams, transitions, undercut banks, and obstructions make for popular fish residences.
4. Stay Safe
Check the weather conditions before you head out—and pack accordingly. If you're wading, bring smart rubber boots and a belt with necessities (like clean drinking water).
In general, don't wade into water past your calf. Make sure to pinch any barbed hooks to avoid accidental injury.
Top Tier Boats and Gear
At Eastern Angling, we support fly fishing for beginners and pros alike. Our world-class guided trips use only the best gear. If you're ready to get the most out of your fly fishing experience, contact one of our experts today.