By Sheila Lee
So, you decided to try fly fishing! Awesome! I think you are going to love it! But how in the world do you find out what you need? You need fishing gear, and the choices can be overwhelming. Let me break it down into a manageable list. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to get the job done.
Here is what you need to start fly-fishing
- Fly rod-I use Orvis Encounter 9 foot 5-weight.
- Fly reel-I use Orvis Encounter size 5. You can order the rod and reel combo at orvis.com.
- Fly-Fishing line-As a rule you want to match the weight of the rod to the weight of the line (for example 5-weight rod, 5-weight line). And I prefer a floating line as it is the most versatile. The line I use is Rio Trout LT which is a weight-forward, triangle taper line. The taper puts most of the weight toward the front of the line which helps with casting distance.
- Leaders and tippet-I like a furled leader with a tippet (it saves me from constantly changing leaders! The tippet I choose depends on the fishing I am going to do. For dry fly fishing, I use a monofilament tippet in size 5x-7x. For fishing below the water’s surface, I prefer a fluorocarbon tippet again in size 5x-7x.
- Waders/ wader pants or wading socks. My waders are Caddis Wading Systems Deluxe Women’s Breathable Stocking foot-Teal.
- Socks-make sure you wear some when wearing waders. During Summer or any warm weather, most any socks will work fine but during Winter I suggest wool hiking socks to keep your feet warm!
- Boots-I love my easy on/off RedHead Lug Sole with the Velcro straps available at Bass Pro Shops.
- Vest-Lightweight and must-have pockets for tackle supplies, hooks for nippers and hemostat, and a D-ring on the back for your net. We are still trying to find the perfect vest. Some vests don’t dry quickly once they are wet. So, we are currently searching for a lightweight but quick-drying style.
- Net-must be big enough for that big one! We prefer silicone as it is easier on the fish and does not remove their protective coating. Something to check is the length of the elastic cord. Make sure you can reach it and scoop your fish comfortably.
- Hat-must be cute! Because the fish know! LOL. But seriously, a hat can help provide protection from the sun. Sunburn can ruin a great day on the water.
- Sunglasses-preferably polarized to see into the water better reducing glare. Seeing into the water is particularly important when sight fishing and when you are casting to a single specific fish.
- Fly fishing tackle-wet flies, emergers, streamers, dry flies, nymphs etc. (what are they feeding on at that moment?) Research the stream and look for current fishing reports. Local fly shops are great sources of information and tackle.
- Dry fly flotant keeps the small flies from becoming waterlogged and riding high on the surface of the water. Nothing is worse than a sinking dry fly.
- Indicators or bobbers and always use the term “indicator” to sound “in the know” otherwise you sound like a newbie.
- Stringer if you intend to keep any fish for dinner. Any type will work just choose your favorite. I hardly ever use one but when I do the old-fashioned chain type is my choice.
I know it sounds like a lot and is a little intimidating to get started but don’t let that stop you. What you get out of it is worth it!
My husband has taught me a lot over the last three years about fly fishing and I still have a lot to learn! Just when I think I have it sort of figured out “they change it”. They change the newest latest best thing!
What it boils down to is: Are you having fun? Are you enjoying the beautiful outdoors? The memories of spending time with your family fishing are going to stay with you forever.
Life is very unpredictable and so is fishing. Just when you think you found out the secret to catching that next big one…you don’t! Funny how that works.
Enjoy the moment.