Fly Fishing Gear
There have been century long battles and arguments over whether the quality and price of fishing
fly fishing gear
kit has any influence on your success when fly fishing. Many-experienced fishermen believe that their success is due to their sophisticated kit, so what equipment do you need for fly fishing?
There are 3 essential pieces of kit you need to start fly fishing, the first is a sturdy fly rod, these are usually thin and flexible and made of modern composite materials such as fiberglass, carbon/graphite or carbon/boron composites and are specifically designed to cast an artificial fly. Generally the size of the rod you need is dependant upon the size of the fish you’re seeking to catch. Along with your fishing rod you will need a fishing reel and a fly line. Fly line is heavy in order for the fisherman to cast the lightweight artificial fly as far as possible; it is often coated in plastic and thicker than usual coarse fishing line.
A fishing net is an essential piece of equipment, without one it is unlikely you’ll be able to lift your fish out of the water. There is a massive range of fishing nets, and, much like fly rods; the size of them is dependent upon the size of the fish you plan on catching.
The last essential piece of kit needed for fly fishing, and the most important is the artificial fly used as the ‘bait’. Flies are categorized in 2 different groups, either imitative flies or attractive flies. Imitative flies are designed to resemble natural food that fish are usually attracted to such as insects. Attractive flies are brightly coloured and out of the ordinary compared to the fish’s usual prey, which instinctively causes the fish to strike out of curiosity. Flies can be further categorized into Dry flies (on the surface), Emergers (partly submerged), and Wet flies (below the surface). A dry fly represents insects such as ants, common flies, and dragonflies, Emergers represent aquatic larvae and nymphs and Wet flies are representative of minnows, or leeches or any other small aquatic fish. The final decision rests with you as to what colour you’d like, size etc, many people have their own preferences but that doesn’t mean they’re always right or successful!
Along with your fly rod, fly line, reel and artificial flies you can get more accessories and equipment to add to the enjoyment of your fishing trip. Other equipment you may be interested in includes a fly fishing bag for carrying all of your gear in or a keep net.
All of this equipment should be readily available from any local fishing/angling shop.
