Ultimate Fly Fishing Frequently Asked Questions – 41 Answers

Flyfishing is a wide and varied sport and like most sports takes a bit of time to get to know all the principles and techniques that make the sport so interesting to many.

As a beginner, you will find you have more questions than answers so we have put together this list of Frequently Asked Questions that will help you get started.

Q) What is the point to fly fishing?

A) The point to fly fishing is to induce a take from a fish with an artificial lure called a fly.

These flies are made by tying materials like fur, hair, tinsels and feathers onto hooks.

These are then cast using a fly fishing rod, line and reel that are specially designed to cast the fly onto the water with accuracy and nice presentation so as not to spook the fish.

Not like traditional fishing fly casting requires a forward and backstroke to load the rod to project the fly forward.

A task that when mastered is an art form that many enjoy as much as catching fish.

Many species can be targetted while fly fishing including trout, salmon, pike, bass, carp, in freshwater and tuna, tarpon, bonefish, giant trevally in saltwater to name a few.

In fact, most fish will come to a fly if correctly presented to them and many fly anglers are adding to the list of species by coming up with tactics to do just that.

Q) Is fly fishing better than regular fishing?

A) There is much to debate as to which type of fishing is better but to many, the art of fly fishing offers a more tranquil pastime than regular fishing.

As fly fishing requires the angler to present a fly to a fish with precision and delicacy most find this a pleasant challenge.

In fact it has been used to help veterans struggling to get back to normal life as a way to calm and soothe them.

The need to induce a take to the artificial fly from the fish also requires special techniques and abilities that many strive to achieve.

As most species of fish will take a fly the technique can be used in almost any situation.

Fly fishing casts have been developed to allow fly anglers to fish different types of beats and bodies of water including single and double spey, switch, roll, snap t, snake roll, arrow, reach and tuck.

Fly fishing can also be practiced at night when the special dark take can heighten the senses to a degree that give so much pleasure to those who partake of it.

Q) Is it hard to fly fish?

A) To a beginner fly fishing may look hard and at the start, there is a lot to learn.

Setting up the fly fishing rod, reel and line at the start can put a lot of new anglers to the sport off.

Learning the fly fishing casts how they work and for what situations.

Which flies are required for which species and how to present and fish them provides a challenge that many take a lifetime to learn?

I would suggest getting yourself a guide to show you the basics on how to set up your fly tackle.

How to do the basic fly fishing casts and how to present your flies to the fish.

With these basics, you can get fishing quickly and then continue to find information on all things fly fishing by going to your local tackle shop or joining forums and Facebook groups to ask other fly anglers how they do it.

Listening to podcasts like the great one Tom R does at Orvis and reading websites like this one will all add to your knowledge.

However, like anything worthwhile in life, the more you put in the more you will get back as learning and practicing will provide many hours of enjoyment.

Q) Is fly fishing worth the money?

A) Fly fishing is no different than any other sport there is equipment for every level of user from total budget-conscious beginner through intermediate and affluent expert fly anglers.

At each level, the equipment prices can match any budget and scale.

Typically an angler can get into the sport with a beginner fly fishing combo all ready matched and balanced ready for fishing for as little as $30.

Some come complete with leaders and flies so no other equipment is required.

You can then build up your selection of flies over time by buying or indeed tying your own patterns another element to the sport.

The amount of pleasure a person can get from fly fishing a small river chasing trout for instance outweighs any worry about it being worth it.

The calming effect alone leaves many coming back for more time and time again trying to get away from their hectic work and family lives.

You can of course spend a whole lot more on a better fly fishing combo.

Anywhere from $300-$1500 is possible and then you start to look at the apparel and extra kit that can be bought like boats and waders.

However, these extras are not required at the start and can be purchased as and when you grow enough in the sport to warrant having them.

Q) Can you fly fish with a normal rod?

A) You can fish with a normal rod but you cannot fly cast in the traditional fly fishing sense.

A traditional rod can be used to cast a bubble with flies attached or weights.

The important thing to remember is that most flies have little weight and need something to get them out so a bubble/bopper half-filled with water or lead weights pinched onto the line a few feet from the flies will help to cast them out.

Then a gentle retrieve will guide the flies over a swim or fish.

For instance, disabled anglers can do well using the above methods as some are unable to cast a fly rod due to the action but can cast a bopper out into a stream or pond.

So they can enjoy using fly patterns although not traditional fly fishing.

A thought to remember here is some waterways have special limits on how a species can be fished for so it’s well worth checking before fishing with a bopper or weights as these may not be allowed and get you banned from such an area.

Q) What kind of fish do you catch with fly fishing?

A) Fly fishing can be used to catch almost any type of species of fish.

Some methods require a bit more thought but if it eats bugs then there is a good chance you can catch it on a fly rod.

Traditionally in freshwater fly fishing is used to catch trout, salmon and grayling along with pike, bass, carp and panfish.

Also, marine species like tarpon, bonefish, redfish, striped bass, snook are readily caught from the shore and boat.

Species like shark, tuna, marlin, sailfish, dorado, giant trevally are also now widely sought after too.

Species that swim on the bottom like ray, flounder and fluke can be readily caught on a fly rod you just need to sink your flies down to them to induce a take.

Fish are not that picky when it comes to their food and will easily take a fly over a bait most days.

So get fly fishing for what’s in your water.

Q) Do Fly Fisherman catch more fish?

A) Fly fishing does allow itself to fishing in many fishing situations for many target species so there is the possibility of catching more fish.

With experience and learning how to cast and present your flies to target species properly your catch rate will increase.

The selection of fly pattern, the depth it is fished, the speed it is fished all play important parts in the process and getting these correct will help a fly angler catch more fish.

Does it mean they will catch more fish than a coarse angler feeding maggots to roach remains to be seen but there is in my opinion more opportunity for a fly angler to target more species than a regular angler and so the possibility to catch more fish.

Q) Does fly fishing use bait?

A) Fly fishing does not use bait in the traditional sense but rather an artificial lure called a fly which is made from feathers and fur to induce a take from a fish.

The fly is cast out with the use of a special fly rod and fly line that use their weight and flexibility to cast a leader and fly which can be almost weightless out in front of the angler.

A process of retrieval is used to then induce a take from a fish.

Then the rod and reel are used to play and land the fish quickly so it can be released safely if required.

In regular fishing, a bait can mean anything from a spinning or jigging lure to a fresh bait like worms or sandeels.

These although work well with a regular spinning rod would not work well on a fly rod as its flexibility would not lead to a good cast.

Q) How do you fly fish for beginners?

A) Fly fishing requires special equipment like the fly fishing rod reel and line.

These are matched by weight so they perform well together along with a fly leader or tippet and flies.

The fishing fly is a small hook that has materials like tinsel, fur and feathers tied onto it to resemble an insect or bug.

This fly which is almost weightless is cast out onto the water using the fly line as the weight to give it a momentum that is generated by the casting action of the fly rod.

The fly fishing cast brings the fly line back and forth until enough load is generated in the rod to expel the cast out into the water.

When done correctly the fly line, leader and fly will roll out in a loop until the fly lands lastly on the water with a nice gentle drop.

This gentle presentation will not scare the fish and hopefully, with a retrieving action, a take can be induced from the fish which can then be landed with the rod by winding the fly line back onto the reel as the fish allows.

As fly fishing anglers get better at the sport the art of fly casting can become a pleasant pastime to leave a strenuous worker feeling tranquil and enriched in nature.

Q) Is fly fishing a good hobby?

A) For me I have to say fly fishing is a great hobby.

Not only are you getting out into nature and absorbing some of the peaceful environment you are in but the art of fly casting can be a sport all of its own.

Not to mention the chance to catch some fish the icing on the cake.

Fly fishing casts are wide and varied and there are new ones being created by individuals who find new ways to work a particular problem.

Learning how to perform each of these well will keep most individuals happy for a long time.

Manufacturers are always releasing new products that are designed to help make tight casts in difficult areas allowing fly anglers to fish areas that were not available to them months or years ago.

Trying to match the hatch can keep fly anglers busy for days and weeks when hatches of insects are attracting native trout or bass driving them crazy when they swim by your fly to take the natural insect on the water.

Cracking this code is so much fun and alone makes fly fishing a good hobby.

Q) Is fly fishing a sport?

A) Fly fishing is a sport as well as a hobby.

There are many many competitions around the world to compete in from local river and stillwater day tickets to world stage competitions.

Every year the world fly fishing international competition is held over 6 rounds of fishing with the overall team and individuals being awarded prizes.

The competition is organized by FIPS Mouche is an abbreviation of “Fédération Internationale de Peche Sportive Mouche” and has run for the last 40 years.

Currently, the Czech Republic are the leaders with 10 golds and Pascal Cognard the top individual with 3 golds for France.

The USA has currently 1 silver and 1 bronze medal with England having won 5 golds.

Other top events include the Florida Keys Tarpon Gold Cup and Fly vs Jerk competition run by Kanalgratis.

Also, there are competitions for ladies and the youth so everyone is covered.

In fact, most fisheries will run a competition or two every year.

Just check your local fly shop for any in your area if you are interested in competing you never know you could be the next Pascal!

Q) Do fly fishermen catch and release?

A) In recent times the practice of catch and release has become more prominent.

As wild fish become harder to find most fly anglers will release a fish to be caught again and again by other anglers.

Some fisheries actually request that all fish be released and will train beginners on how to do it quickly so the fish does not undergo undue stress.

There is a scientific study being done called Keep Fish Wet that shows anglers that extra time holding on to fish to take pictures can stress them beyond successful release.

However if done quickly and correctly there is evidence that fish can go on to grow, spawn and survive to live a long life.

There are many fly anglers who like to take a fish home for the pot and this too is fine if the fishery allows it.

After all, we did all start out as hunter-gatherers so bringing home the dinner is still satisfying.

Q) Can you fly fish in saltwater?

A) There are loads of species of fish that are in saltwater that can be fly fished for.

There are probably as many fly angler who fish in saltwater as there are who fish in freshwater.

With species like tarpon, bonefish, tuna, marlin and shark to target there is plenty of excitement to be had.

Fly fishing gear has to be a bit more specialized for fishing in marine conditions as salt water is very corrosive.

Rinsing off in freshwater directly after a session on the sea will help protect your gear but it doesn’t stop it completely.

Saltwater fly fishing adds new dimensions to fly fishing with things like onshore winds, currents, very deep water and sun glare.

These make saltwater fly fishing demanding but with a bit of practice they can be overcome.

The most exciting thing about shore saltwater fly fishing is you never know what species of fish takes your fly.

You could be targeting bonefish and get slammed by a redfish or small shark.

Every day is a new adventure and probably why so many now do it.

Q) How do you cast fly fishing?

A) Fly fishing has many casts.

The basic is the overhead cast and requires the lifting of the line from in front throwing it behind and then forward again to allow it to cast out onto the water.

This requires the rod to be loaded with energy to allow the line to be sent forward.

The aim is to cast your fly which is almost weightless with the fly line (the weight) out in front so it unfolds in a nice gentle presentation so as not to spook the fish.

If you can imagine your rod as a hammer and you are trying to hit a nail on a wall in front of you.

This shows the movement to be from 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock.

The rod needs to come to a sharp stop at each point to make the fine unfold away from the tip guide.

Q) Is fly fishing becoming more popular?

A) I would say fly fishing is indeed more popular than before.

Fly fishing is general back in the 1900’s was for the gentre only.

Special permits contained a ghillie or guide available for you all day.

A sit-down lunch and a wee dram was the going rate for the rich and famous.

The local man hadn’t a hope of getting to fly fish the main salmon and trout rivers.

Nowadays this has changed for the better where anyone with a valid license or permit can fish the river they have paid for.

You can book a day or half-day on just about any stretch of water you like.

There are always exceptions to the rule where some destinations require booking a weeks fishing and cost a hefty amount but if you are willing to spend they will accept you.

I have spent a week on the Yokanga for my fortieth birthday. A great time fly fishing a great wild river but not for everyone’s budget.

The fact that you can fly fish for so many species today also adds to the attraction of the sport and the increase of so many taking it up.

Lately, more and more ladies have also taken up the sport and manufacturers of gear have seen this and responded with specially designed apparel and fly gear for them.

So a sport that was once just gentlemen of wealth is now open to everyone who wishes to try it.

Q) What season do you fly fish?

A) The main season for fly fishing is from spring until fall, especially for trout.

Other species can be fly-fished for at different times usually to allow them to spawn in peace.

For instance, Grayling are a winter species and many trout anglers turn to them over the winter before going after trout in the spring again.

Also depending on where you are Salmon can be fished for most of the year however are most prolific during the summer months.

Steelhead or ocean-going rainbow trout are also a mainly winter species coming into rivers late fall to winter to spawn and leaving in Spring.

After a season of trout, fishing steelhead adds a bit of extra activity during the winter for anglers in the Pacific basin, especially in North America.

Tarpon a marine species has its main season from March to July with the height around June with many pro anglers heading to Florida to catch them.

You can if you want to fly fish all year through as there are species to catch in every waterway you can travel to.

Q) Is fly fishing a solitary sport?

A) Fly fishing isn’t strictly a solitary sport but you can fish on your own if you want to get away from it all and get back to nature.

There is a lot to be said for the tranquil nature of fly fishing and taking off to a river or stream on your own with your favorite fly combo and a box of flies can be an uplifting experience.

The passive effect of the fly cast in fly fishing has been recognized as a great stress reliever and has been used to help re-nationalize veterans with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Like all sports, however, it can be very competitive and fly fishing with a group of buds can also be a fun experience.

There are competitions all the time if you look around and a day of fly fishing can introduce you to new friends who love the sport too.

I enjoy it both ways but sharing experiences with friends tops it for me.

Q) Who are the best fly fishers?

A) There are many who fly fish now and there is a common debate about who are better anglers males or females.

Both with plenty of practice and knowledge can become accomplished fly casters and anglers catching many species adeptly.

However, there seems to be a growing theory that women are indeed better than men at the sport.

It seems to boil down to several differences between the sexes that provide the ladies with better angling skills.

First off ladies are more patient and don’t rush into a beat with the bullish mentality of men who seem intent on casting to the far banking from the start.

Ladies will start slowly and concise checking out the water close to them before moving on.

They seem to be able to take on new information from guides readily when men seem to think they know better.

They also in my opinion make better conservational decisions leaving the river the same way they found it.

Also lastly females have the benefit of not having testosterone which apparently fish can smell in the water which can put them off the fly.

Don’t believe me guys then check out some of the records set by lady fly anglers over the last few years in both casting distances and species.

Q) Do fly fishermen eat fish?

A) Fish are good for you and tasty to eat and fly fishermen know this will take a few home to be eaten.

Sport fishermen the world over are more conservation-minded so many fish are returned to the water to fight another day.

Also, many fisheries are strictly catch and release so fish are not allowed to be killed and taken home.

99% of the time this will be the case but occasionally fish that put up a good fight are too badly drained of energy that returning them is not possible so they are humanly disposed and taken home to be eaten.

There are other fisheries like the Pacific coast where the Salmon returning will die upon spawning.

These fish are widely sought after by many in Alaska and Canada and North America to be saved and stored for the Winter to keep them and their families fed.

Some may think the killing of fish is barbaric but it has been done since the beginning of time and when done correctly is perfectly acceptable.

Q) Do you fly fish for salmon?

A) Do you have to stand in the water to fly fish?

It is not necessary to stand in the water to fly fish but on many occasions, it will improve your chances of catching if you do.

For instance, Salmon fishing requires the fly to be swung around in the current until it reaches directly downstream or the dangle with many fish being caught at this position.

It would be impossible to get your fly to this point if not wading in the water.

River fishing in general means bankings are heavily obscured with bushes and tall grass hence getting into the water and wading the fly angler can get that fly out to the fish without getting caught in the undergrowth.

There are other occasions when wading is not required like float fishing down a river in a boat or fishing from a pier and if a bankside is kept clear fly fishing can be done without a problem.

Q) What Temperature do Flies Hatch?

The best insect activities in early spring are during the warmer times of the day.

Things slip into the evenings, and we welcome summer.

You will catch the best fly hatches in June.

Afterwards, some hatching activities move to dusk and overnight, especially caddisflies.

It might proceed for a few hours to dawn.

In August, mornings are the best. The trend reverses in the fall.

Dusk hatches will start again in September. October sees midday action.

Often, hatching pales similar to spring since most species are finished.

But, some exceptions are Dicosmoecus caddis found in the West.

Temperature is one of the most crucial controlling factors a fly angler should master when it comes to flies and hatches.

Most fishing flies prefer particular air and water temperatures for their emergence and more coordinated activities.

Their preferences vary hence why you should know about specific species. I have only covered the general trends.

Warm days push hatches to the evenings in spring and fall. Summer and cool days see then back in the afternoon.

Hot days tend to push evening hatching activities into the following morning.

Q) How do you Land a Trout with a Fly Rod?

Striking and playing a trout are among the steps before landing it. It is the end of the game for this buddy.

It can be problematic to land a fish alone, especially if you are a novice. Lift your rod tip higher to get your net under the trout.

You want to reduce the angle between the net and the fish. Avoid lifting the rod tip higher with the fly line running down closer to the fish.

It poses a higher risk of breaking your rod. Experts call this ‘point-loading’, meaning the trout’s weight is not transmitted along the rod but down of it.

Your landing net should have an extendable or collapsible handle to work efficiently. Once the trout is in a place you can net, gently pull its head over the net’s rim.

Flick the rim up and lift your net simultaneously. If you do it right, the fish goes to the bottom of the net.

Sometimes, the fish can freak out and swim off. Avoid chasing it and allow it to get into position before another landing attempt.

If you are on a catch-and-release mission, keep the trout in water as much as possible. You want to release it into the water when still alive.

Q) What is Drag in Fly Fishing?

Having drag on a fly means that your line and leader are in very high tension in the water, unnaturally pulling the fly. Usually, bugs or flies in the water column drift naturally at a pace similar to the water.

You should present flies in a manner that imitates the natural drift of insects. Tiny bugs don’t swim and swing at a high-speed rate.

When fly fishing for trout, you need a drag-free drift unless you want to swing wet flies downstream and across or strip streamers.

It is necessary for dry flies and nymphs even though there are instances when dry fly fishing or nymphing where you need to skate flies or tight lines to imitate specific bug characteristics or habits, the most success is achieved going the drag-free way.

Drag in flies means they are racing through the feeding lane faster than the currents. Trout won’t recognize such flies as food.

The solution to this is mending your fly line. You must have an excellent drift to present flies to trout.

Sometimes, achieving excellent drag-free drift where you are can be challenging.

Move about the fishing hole and find a better place to properly reach the fish with your casts and mend the line well.

Check for areas with debris floating downstream or bubbles. Your flies should float similarly.

Less drag means more fish!

Q) What is a Good Fly Casting Distance?

The experts will say accuracy over casting distance. But, distance is still a consideration when casting, so we still address it.

Few anglers can cast full weight-forward lines. A shooting head and fly casting distance of 100 ft or 30 metres are decent.

Most species are caught between 12 and 20 metres. Fewer anglers can cast up to and past 130 feet or 40 metres.

Even if they do, the sight isn’t beautiful. The fly will hardly be part of the fishing rig because it is the furthest away.

To get a more decent casting distance, mind your technique. Your timing should be perfect.

Double hauls are a natural part of a great distance cast. Practice makes perfect, and that is the absolute truth.

Practice allows you to learn while casting different circumstances. You will learn how to train your strokes.

It is crucial to trim your gear. Properly match your fly rod and line alongside the casting style.

Beginners often face underlining. Good leaders stretch well to allow for longer casts.

Shooting head fly casters can use longer heads while maintaining weight.

Weight-forward casters can get fly lines with longer heads.

Longer heads allow for more fly line in the air, thus elongating your casts.

Q) Is it Better to Fly Fish Upstream or Downstream?

Trout anglers are concerned about fishing upstream or downstream and which of the two is the best way to go.

It is an unending debate, but I will share my facts.

It is better to fish upstream when fishing for trout. Aiming upstream allows an angler to use the water and wind currents to their advantage.

You want to be less undetectable to fish, meaning it is safer fishing upstream than downstream. But, there are instances when fishing downstream is sensible.

Fishing upstream means you are casting and moving upstream from where you are. You want to walk upstream against the currents on a river or stream.

Fishing downstream means casting and moving downstream or down the current from where you are. It means you are fishing along the river or stream with the current.

It is sensible to fish upstream when you want to reduce dirty water and noise (the fish need to be less weary) and increase your bait presentation.

Fishing upstream allows you more help from the current, and moving upstream is safer than downstream.

Fishing downstream is less tiring, and there are minimal chances of the fish spotting your line and tippet.

Q) What’s More Important, Fly Rod or Reel?

Different anglers have different opinions. I think the rod is the most critical gear of all fishing tackle.

It is recommended to carefully select one depending on your type of fishing and budget. Fly rods are responsible for throwing casts, lure action and battling a fish.

The reel will come second if we are only comparing the two. Its task is reeling in your line.

Did you know that all fly reels will perform such a basic function? I understand that some are costlier than others.

Entry-level fly reels have the most basic features and components. High-end options are made from high-grade materials and boast advanced features.

However, regardless of the price, the function is the same across all.

A fly rod caters to much more that can determine angling success or failure. Your rod is how an angler casts its bait or lure.

The fly rod will dictate a bait or lure’s action in the water. Also, the strength and size of these rods determine your battles and if you win or lose.

You hold the fly rod in your hand, and it should be comfortable. Neither should it be humongous nor tiny.

Since it isn’t a mechanical gear, a rod can last a lifetime.

Q) What Time of Day is Best for Dry Fly Fishing?

The general rule of thumb for the best time to dry fly fish is to do it an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset.

But there are several factors like weather, hatch patterns, and daily cycles.

Regardless of where you are, one thing we share is the daily cycle where light comes in the east and sets in the West. Most fish are most active at these hours, nearing dawn and dusk.

Most anglers realize high activity early in the morning; that is why it is considered the best time of the day to hook a fish.

Fish start approaching the water surface one or two hours before sunrise.

They will be feeding on bugs on the water surface. Dry fly anglers love taking advantage of such bursts of activities.

Even though this is the peak time, fish remain active throughout the day. Late mornings see the sunrise and warmer temperatures.

Some species head deeper, reducing activity on the top and sub-surface of water, which prolongs to midday.

The sun descends late in the afternoon, and temperatures begin cooling. Local fish species start bursting with activity, which could last until 7 pm.

Q) What Size of Fly Hook is Good for Largemouth Bass?

Generally, hooks from size 1/0 to 3/0 are the best for largemouth bass. Bigger hooks prevent small fish from grabbing them.

The result could be losing your bait. Tiny hooks can be swallowed by fish, leading to a gut hook.

This is fatal to largemouth bass and other smaller species. As much as size is a primary concern, wrong hook styles lower the chances of hooking a largemouth bass.

No hook sizing standards exist across all manufacturers. A size 2 from one brand might be smaller or larger than the exact size of another company.

Usually, anglers try to maintain a single brand. Most manufacturers adhere to sizing standards in their companies.

This should help you choose the right size of hook for largemouth bass.

Q) Can you Catch any Fish Fly Fishing?

You can catch any fish fly fishing if you combine the right gear, fly, and angling method.

Theoretically, fly fishing aims at catching certain fish using artificial lures that imitate food for the target species.

It means that any fish species feeding on small creatures and insects on the water surface or underneath can be caught on a fly.

The methods of fly fishing include nymphing, streamer and dry fly fishing.

For monster seawater species, an angler uses artificial flies that imitate bigger lures like small fish and crayfish. Your fly choice affects your catch regardless of where you choose to fish.

Fly fishing is among the popular fish catching in fresh and saltwater. You can hook anything from trout to sharks.

The secret is mastering how to use fishing flies to catch any fish species. It has been popularized as a trout fishing style for a long time.

But you can use it for anything, including redfish and snook.

Q) Is Trout Fishing the Same as Fly Fishing?

No. Fly fishing is a type of angling (a broad category) where an angler uses artificial lightweight lures to catch fish.

Trout fishing is the act of catching a trout by any legal method allowed for it.

It could be through fly fishing or spin fishing. Years back, you could spear fish for trout in some areas, but this has been banned since trout are considered game fish in most parts.

Fly fishing is, however, generalized as the method of catching trout because it yields faster and more efficiently. But, this type of angling is open for use on any fish species.

Trout fishing is possible with any tackle as long as the hook is the right size. But fly fishing limits you to specific gear for this style of angling.

You need a fly rod, fly reel and fly line to complete your tackle. Most anglers prefer the lightest yet practical fly fishing components to play trout.

Since trout fishing isn’t as limiting, you can get a spin cast or spinning combo loaded with a 2-8lb monofilament line and a 6-8ft light-rated rod. This combo is excellent for beginners.

Q) Why can’t I Catch a Fish Fly Fishing?

If you fly fish without catching any fish, you probably get a bad drift. Your presentation is crucial and determines whether you land a fish or not.

Your flies might be the wrong ones. Know the type of food your target species likes and match the current hatch for more success.

Sometimes, you can have the right fly but the wrong size. Avoid using giant flies since they lead to fewer takes and minimal success.

You might be fishing in the wrong area. Your spot might be the problem even if you get your tackle right.

Target areas where fish hold like deep pools, boulders, undercut banks, weed beds, eddies, around structures, holes and slow deep water.

You are fishing at the wrong time. For most species, the best time of the day to fish is early morning before sunrise, the evening before sunset and in overcast conditions.

Check if you are spooking fish. Some species are very weary, and the slightest commotion will push them to hide.

You might be fishing the wrong depths. Fish prefer different water depths depending on the weather, season and time of the day.

Q) Where do you keep your Fish when Fly fishing?

Unless you plan on using the conservation technique of catch-and-release, you need to know where to keep fish when fly fishing.

If you plan on eating the fish you catch, you can kill and dress it immediately.

But, this is likely to interrupt your angling experience. You can place fish on stringers and lower them in the water.

A stringer is a line of wire, chain or rope that an angler uses to string their catch before immersing in water to keep them alive.

You can place the fish in wire mesh baskets before immersing in water. Ensure that the baskets are deeper to avoid the fish from jumping out.

Some anglers put their fish in a live well. These wells accommodate all their fish, and it is easy to net them when you want to use them for food.

Bring a pail or cooler with shaved ice. You want to keep the fish cool and make smaller ones go dormant.

Q) How did Fly Fishing get its Name?

Fly fishing got its angling name from the lures used in the angling method. Anglers started exploring the role of artificial lures in 1836.

Avid anglers have found fly fishing books with instructions on the technique and tackle dating back to the 15th century.

In 1653, Izaak Walton, a fly fishing author, wrote that this method of fishing was part of human history for about 2000 years.

The idea of artificial flies came from anglers discovering that trout and other fish feed on flies and insects.

This knowledge helped them deduce where to position their fishing lines.

Also, they observed that creatures lure their prey by their safety or appearance for food. It adds a lot of dimension to the art of fly fishing.

Fly fishing has since remained the same in most ways. The only primary differences we can see are in the quality and design of the tackle. Otherwise, the overall techniques are the same.

Q) How Big is the Fly Fishing Market?

The fly fishing market is rapidly growing, with more than 17% of Americans combing rivers and streams in search of fish. Fly fishing isn’t the most popular as other forms of angling.

Before the pandemic, the USA recorded 7 million fly fishermen/women. Its popularity is growing, and research shows that tackle’s online and physical retail sales have increased.

Anglers are looking for new challenges, thus increasing the growth rate of the fly-angling market. Between 2018 and 2019, the number of anglers increased by 100,000.

The US had 76.7 million fly angling trips in 2021. Those who went to cast did it on averagely 10.9 times.

Even though females are gaining interest in the sport, males still dominate at 70%. In terms of age, the majority fall between 25 and 34 years.

But, research reports fly anglers from 6 to 65+ were interested in the sport last year. The fly-angling industry in the US is worth almost $750 million.

Q) Can you Fly fish in the Ocean?

Yes. You can fly fish in the ocean, but it is a different experience compared to doing it in freshwater—most saltwater game fish like attacking lures but can take flies.

It means that a considerable number of species are available to be caught on flies in the ocean. Unlike angling trout in rivers and lakes, your tackle for ocean fly fishing should be beefier.

The minimum is an 8-weight combo for species like snook and redfish. If you are out for tarpon, sailfish or cobia, go higher with an 11 or 12-weight combo.

Also, you will often deal with the wind as you make your precision sight casts. Practice will help you perfect your skills and seal the deal.

Q) Does Fly Fishing use a Hook?

Fly fishing uses a hook in most cases. There are many hooks made to suit your fly fishing needs and preferences.

These hooks are made of an eye, shank, bend, gap, barb and point. The best fly fishing hook for your needs will depend on the flies you are tying, your target species and if you are fishing for catch-and-release or food.

Dry fly hooks go well fish dry flies such as royal wolf or Adams. These are lightweight, streamlined and sharp.

Such hooks sail cleanly through the air, and they float nicely and high with the correct additional material. Some standard dry fly hooks are Klinkhamer and terrestrial, but more exist.
Standard dry fly fishing hooks start from size 10 to 26.

Wet fly hooks are graded into a lightweight, medium and heavy. These sink lower than dry hooks and are in different shapes to take varied patterns from wet flies to nymphs.

The commonest is Sproat and round bend. Round bend wet hooks have completely rounded curves from the shank’s end to the hook’s point.

Sproat bend hooks are flatter as they bend to approach the point. The flatness is for added strength and traction.

Wet fly hooks’ standard sizes range from 8 to 22.

Nymph hooks are straight with wider gapes and can be barbless or barbed. You attach them to pheasant tails to lure trout.

Nymph hook standard sizes start from 6 to 22.

Scud hooks attach crustacean and larvae-shaped lures. They have short yet curved bodies mimicking shrimp, starting from size 6 to 22.

Streamer hooks range from size 4 to 12 and are bigger than the dry fly, wet fly and nymph hooks. Modern designs use articulated hooks.

The streamer has two hooks on each fly for more movement and an increasing hook-up percentage.

Speciality hooks are unique in appearance and designed for particular patterns. Specific tiers make these.

Q) Can you Fly Fish a Lake?

Yes,fly fishing in a lake is possible. But, for success, you need to combine the correct fly fishing tackle, skills and read the water to know what fish are feeding on.

In most instances, fish in the lake are deeper in the column. It is vital to learn how and where to get your flies. Since lakes don’t experience yearly runoffs, fly fishing opportunities are available most of the year.

Most lakes go through a turnover twice annually. It means the water in the lake turns over from top to bottom.

Lakes have still waters, and shorter rods might not help. Longer fly rods allow you to hold back casts off the water level.

The best fly rod length for lakes is 8.5 to 9.5 feet. But some anglers love longer poles of about 10.5 feet.

Ensure that your long fly rods are lighter and responsive. Get 7-weight fly rods if fishing in the wind.

Match the fly line to the rod. Additional line weight helps cast and gives an angler backbone to catch bigger fish.

Q) Why is Fly Fishing so Addictive?

Fly fishing is addictive because it offers more fun and captivating experiences than other types of fishing. It helps the body to release positive endorphins for positive emotions.

As humans, we have a craving for contentment and happiness. Fly fishing gives us a good break from the concerns of daily life and allows us to experience comforting and rewarding feelings.

Modern life is quite hectic, and fly angling drives us into sheer tranquillity and peace. When on a river or stream, you relax and break from the day’s bothers.

It is fun to spend time outdoors alone or with other anglers. Luckily, this isn’t like tennis or badminton, where you must have a partner to complete the game.

You can fish alone and feel fulfilled. Or, you can team up with other fly fishers and have a good time.

Fly fishing is an adventure and allows you to travel and explore water spots in other regions.

There are so many fishing destinations worldwide, and while doing what you love best, you get to learn about new cultures and see beautiful scenery and landscapes.

Q) What Month Should I Start Fly Fishing?

You can start fishing any day or month, but it is best to go out when the season peaks in April and October. Some anglers brave the winter cold and make fly fishing a year-round pleasure.

Also, with the weather changes today, there are more warm destinations to make fly angling an annual sport. Fly fishing months will depend on the species you want to catch.

Also, are you willing to get on the water? Regardless of your skill level, it would be best if you had the correct tackle and know-how to make fly fishing an all-year-round sport.

It is easier for most anglers to fish during warm months. But, each season has its unique fly angling opportunities.

Some anglers swear by winter because of less traffic and the energy of finding fish in adverse conditions. Others prefer the traffic and will be out in peak seasons.

Q) Where is the Best Place to Fly Fish?

The best place to fly fish is where you find the most fulfilment. It could be in your local river, or you might be the adventurous angler that loves exploring other fishing destinations.

Sometimes, spending on a fly fishing vacation outside your state is worth saving for. There are numerous fish species you can catch on the fly.

Their homes range from fresh to saltwater, seas, lakes, oceans, rivers, streams, ponds and estuaries. Local waters boast a lot of potentials that are hardly exploited.

A few anglers will insist on fishing their nearby waters and will rate them as the best they’ve tried. Others prefer a little adventure and crave different fly fishing destinations.

If you are a travelling angler looking for the best place to fly fish, try the United Kingdom, Iceland, Russia, Alaska, Brazil, New Zealand, Cuba, Brazil, Tierra Del Fuego and Montana.

The above locations shouldn’t limit you. There are hidden fly fishing gems worldwide that might surprise you.

Q) How do you Fly fish in the spring?

For most fly anglers, the onset of spring welcomes a trout season teeming with activity. Even in summer, brace yourself with some winter tactics for more success.

Slow presentations are crucial. The start of spring has colder waters, and the secret is slowly presenting your nymph or streamer to catch monsters.

Have your presentations and flies deeper in the water column in early spring. Study the water temperatures and maximize opportunities above 50 degrees F since most freshwater species are active.

Spring rain and runoffs lead to muddy water. Go for brighter and slightly gaudy bugs for fish to differentiate food from the murky waters.

Go big and flashy on your flies for spring fishing if your river is muddier and higher than usual. If it is clear and low, which hardly happens in spring, keep presentations smaller and lighter.

Try out the local tailwater if there is any in your area since they fish well in spring. The dam-regulated water flows are variable.

These will have fantastic dry fly hatches in early spring while nearby rivers defrost at this time. Take advantage of the midges, mayflies and blue-winged olives.

So there you have it 41 FAQ’s on fly fishing.

Loads to get your head around and will probably create more questions for you to discover.

Tight Lines and keep fishing.