A lot of people are starting to fly fish. It’s easy to understand because it is more challenging and very addictive.


If you are thinking about taking up fly fishing I recommend that you learn all that you can abut the sport before you start buying equipment. Rods, reels, line and flies are going to be something completely new to you.





The fly fishing rod will more than likely be your first purchase. These rods come in all styles and weights. The most common are 2,4,5 and 6 pc models that can come in lengths from 6 to 16 ft. When purchasing your rod you want to make sure that you get one that will match the line you plan on using, which will in turn need to match the type of fishing you plan on doing.


The line that you chose can very greatly as well. You can get different types of line for different types weather or different types of casting. For instance, if it is a windy day, you will want to use a different type of line than you would use on a calmer day. It’s always a good idea to have different types of line with you so that you can change when necessary. Or better yet, keep a different spooled reel readily available for a quick change.


Flies are probably the hardest item to purchase when you first start out. There are so many different styles and sizes. There are some that will float and some that will sink. You will read many articles and books that talk about matching the hatch. What they are referring to here is find a fly that matches the insects that the fish are currently eating. When you are a beginner this can be a little more difficult than they make it sound. The best way to start is to go to bait shop that is in the area that you are going to fish. Ask them what the fish are hitting. Most bait stores that are located in a fly fishing area carry flies and will gladly tell you what is working that week. Buy a variety. When you get to where you are going to fish, ask the other fly fishermen what’s working. You’ll find out that they are more than helpful when it comes to showing you’re their special tricks and tips. Eventually of course you will want to start tying your own. We’ll discuss this deeper on another date.


Waders are another item that comes is different styles. You have rubber waders with boots built in. You have neoprene ones that also have the boots. Then you have the higher end style that are a polyester type fiber with neoprene, but you will need to purchase the foot gear separately. The style of waders that you purchase will depend on two things. First what type of weather will you be fishing in, and second, how much do you want to pay. Like everything, you get what you pay for. In the case of waders it has to do a lot with comfort. The more you pay, the better they will fit and the more comfortable they will be.


The fly fishing vest is another important item that you will need to consider. When you go out and purchase your vest, think pockets. The vest is you tackle box. You will need to get one that can hold all of your gear.


That’s pretty much all that you need to get started. There are a few more items like a net and such, but you can work without one for now.


Happy Fishing!

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