Fly Fishing Gear Checklist
Fly fishing is a kind of angling method where an artificial “fly” is used to catch the fish. It is very important to have the right fly fishing equipment for you to be successful. Some basic accessories include fly rods, fly reels, fly lines, fly leaders and and tippet.
Fly box: There are necessary to help organize your fly fishing lures properly
Fly Rod: You can select from a wide variety of fly fishing rods. They come in various weights, materials and lengths. Common materials used are graphite, fiberglass and bamboo.
Choosing the correct length is also vital. Shorter rods of about 6-8 feet are suitable for fly fishing in brush-lined streams. Longer rods of about 9 feet are better for fly fishing in big rivers. You are also able to control your line easier with a longer fly rod. You will need heavier rods for heavier fish. Beginners can start with a 5 or 6 weight rod.
Fly Reels: There are automatic and manual fly reels. The automatic ones are less preferred because they tend to be heavier for their size and they have limited line capacity.
The fly reel should match the weight of the rod you buy. By doing this, there will be enough room for backing and for the fly line itself. Make sure the fly reel is weather resistant. It will get wet and therefore it is necessary that it is rust-proof.
Fly Line: Artificial flies (the bait) are weightless and that means you’ll need some weight to carry the flies to your target. The line is what provides the weight to deliver the fly once it is cast. Lines are chosen based on several characteristics. These include length and weight; shape and construction; tapers; color; and coating. Learning how to tie a fly knot is a great skill to have.
There are many types of lines such as floating, sinking, and sink-tip. For beginners the best would be to get the weight forward line. It is easier to cast on because the bulk of the line weight is designed into the front part of the line. If you already have a fly rod and a fly reel, you will need to determine the weight of the fly rod and the weight of the fly reel and then buy fly lines that have the same weight. Fly rod weight = fly reel weight = fly line weight.
Leader and Tippet: The leader is what connects from the end of the fly line to the fly. The leader and tippet help you to cast and straighten the line out by transferring the energy through the fly line all the way to the fly. Some fish are able to see the fly line and swim away as a result. A right leader can be used to create a seemingly invisible connection between the fly line and the fly. It tapers down from the fly line to where the fly is attached so that the fly appears to be in its most natural manner.
Flies: This is the bait. Different variations of flies are used for different conditions, such as fishing at the surface of the stream or from the bottom of the stream. Buy an assortment of artificial flies. Packages are available that include a variety of dry flies, nymphs and streamers.
Fly Waders: Waders are recommended for you to keep dry when going into shallow waters. They should be breathable and light as possible so that you are comfortable. Select the stockingfoot waders because they are more versatile than the bootfoot waders.
Boots: Get a good pair of boots suitable to use when fishing. Do not get ones with felt soles because boots with felt soles are not durable and do not provide good traction. Get boots with rubber soles. You can add aluminum studs for extra traction.
Fly Net: .Nets with a soft rubber mesh pocket, are key for fly fishing anglers.
Other fly fishing tackle needed including, hats, sunglasses, sun protection, vests and other accessories.