For this, you will need to have some technical knowledge and specific equipment. Indeed, this practice requires specific equipment, which can vary depending on the technique you will use. You will not use the same equipment for dry fly fishing or for nymphing. This will also be the case depending on the strength of the river you will be fishing.
One of the most important aspects comes from the choice of your line. Its number and profile will allow you to adapt to the conditions you will encounter. Fishermen at sea will not use the same equipment for their streamer as trout enthusiasts in a small stream. The reels chosen will also depend on this choice, as will the rigging.
Once you are comfortable with your choice, all you have to do is understand the technique in your garden, and then by the fast waters in the right season. The advice of a few fly fishermen will always be welcome, both for the right gesture and for discovering aquatic life and the underwater environment. You'll be left to scrutinize the water's surface, looking for your first rise.
The different Fly Fishing Techniques
Dry fly fishing is probably the most well-known technique among true enthusiasts. It's also one of the most fun to practice. It allows you to always keep an eye on your insect imitation, letting it drift on the water's surface in the most natural way possible. It will require a large observational effort. You will need to be able to cast in the right place with a fly that matches the current menu.
Another fly fishing technique is wet fly fishing, which offers an imitation of a small creature. Trout particularly love invertebrates, which are a massive source of food. In this case, you also need to be observant. Observing the grounds and the environment, lifting stones, will be essential habits for the success of your day.
Nymph fishing is the third major fly fishing technique. It offers a technique that gets closer to the bottom. It imitates an invertebrate moving along the bottom with the current. It's often very effective once you've learned to control the drift well.
Other techniques exist, like streamer fishing, or variations of the techniques mentioned. If lure fishing interests you, check out our article on the best soft lures.
Choosing a rod for fly fishing
The choice of your rod for fly fishing will directly depend on the technique you want to use once you're by the water. Several technical concepts and details need to be taken into account to be part of the fly fishing community.
The action of the rod can vary greatly. You should choose the one that best suits your fishing style. Dry fly technique is quite versatile in terms of action. But hunting trout with a wet fly can be very challenging with a too-fast action. Choosing a progressive action will ensure fewer breakages and improved effectiveness when setting the hook.
The length also plays an important role. The length of the blank can vary significantly depending on the river's profile and the technique. When fishing with a wet fly, generally longer models are required for good drift control. In contrast, shorter rods are becoming more common in dry fly fishing.
Fishing at sea or targeting predators like pike require quite different specifics. Lengths can easily exceed 10 feet and be capable of handling lines heavier than 10.
A fly reel for all types of fishing
The reel for fly fishing is often a line reservoir. It can hold several tens of meters of your line. It can usually be classified into three main categories: automatic, semi-automatic, and manual reels.
You'll need to choose from the characteristics of these products to offer perfect adaptability to your technique and your line diameter. Line capacity is thus a key element. Most of the time, you can rely on a size indication on the variations to make your choice.
Weight is also an essential aspect. Often heavy, these reels should balance your rig and above all not weigh too much on your arm and shoulder. Choosing a lightweight product ensures comfort that isn't always easy to find.
Finally, the drag is also a crucial element. It must be powerful enough to react to large predators while being sensitive enough to enjoy the fight with smaller fish.
An Infinite Variety of Flies
Flies are there to imitate either an insect, an invertebrate, or possibly small animals. You can count on a huge selection of flies, in terms of models and colors. But for those who tie their creations, the only limit will be your imagination.
You will need to choose the number of your hook based on the species you are targeting. For the larger flies, you can also rely on a tube setup. This helps protect your fly and allows you to equip it as you wish.
The most important thing when choosing your fly is observing the wildlife, season, and sometimes the advice of experienced individuals. It's necessary to have a well-stocked box to try to offer a model that looks like those flying during your session.
