Fly Fishing Basics
Posted in Fly Fishing on the August 8, 2007
Unlike most other methods of fishing that rely on a natural or artificial bait set or pulled at various depths under the water’s surface, fly fishing is typically done at or within a few inches of the surface. Because of this, fly fishing equipment is somewhat different that other types of casting or trolling equipment. The rods, reels, lures, and even the line, are specialized for this type of angling.
Fly fishing rods are usually quite long when compared to other types of fishing rods. They can range from approximately 6 feet to 14 or 15 feet long. The reason for this is that the rod is used to whip the line - and the attached fly - back and forth in the air to get the greatest distance while casting. A longer, more flexible rod also provides more action when reeling the catch in, giving the angler the ability to feel what the fish is doing - and to be honest - making the experience much more fun.
There are two basic types of fly fishing lures - wet flies and dry flies. Wet flies are designed to float just under the surface to emulate a bug that has recently drowned or a nymph (a young insect that has not reached maturity). Dry flies float on top of the water’s surface, and resemble dragonflies, mayflies or other insects that are resting. Dry flies are usually coated with a waterproof material to ensure that the fly does not absorb enough water to sink. Both types of flies are usually made with small hooks and very lightweight materials in order to resemble the insects of the area and to assist with flotation.