Fly fishing is a type of fishing that is a little bit different than the worm fishing you might be used to from your childhood. Fly fishing uses a variety of artificial flies that are all handmade and either float, sink, or just go below the surface. All fly fishermen use six pieces of equipment when they are fishing. These are a fly rod, fly reel, fly line, leader, tippet material, and flies.
Fly Rod
A fly rod is similar to other fishing rods but it has some small differences. It has a lot of power in the butt for casting, and is typically about eight and a half to nine feet long. This is the most important piece of equipment to have in fly fishing, without it you cannot fish. They come in many different actions but medium action is very common and is recommended for beginners.
Fly Reel
Fly reels are the next most crucial piece of equipment you will need. A fly reel is used to hold your fly line and to provide drag when fighting a fish. For a beginner I would suggest buying a balanced outfit that comes with a loaded fly reel. The reason for this is because it will be easier for you if it is all setup already providing a completely balanced outfit which includes rod, reel and line. A balanced fly fishing outfit is almost always easier on your wallet. Once you gain more experience you may choose to upgrade your equipment but to start I would suggest a balanced outfit.
Fly Line
Fly line is used to launch your fly through the air. This line is thick and generally a highly visible color, usually weighted near the tip to help it get better momentum. The fly line, when used with special casting is cast out to present the fly. Fly line comes in two primary types. They are floating line and sinking line. The Floating line is usually very bright and easy to see while the sinking line is darker in color to be less visible to the fish. Most people I have talked to use floating line the majority because sinking line is much harder to control.
Fly Leader
The fly leader is attached to your fly line. This is usually clear in color and is where you tie on your fly. It is usually tapered so that the part of the line where you tie your fly on is thin. The fly leader is usually about eight to nine feet long, and is used to help present the fly in a natural state.
Tippet Material
Tippet is added to the leader after you have cut off some flies and the line is not tapered like it was originally. The tippet materials main purpose is to extend the life of your leader.
Fly Fishing Flies
Fly fishing flies are the most critical part of fly fishing. They are all hand tied using a variety of materials. These flies are made to imitate large assortments of insects. Fly fishing flies come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors and make up many different fish species primary diet.
Fly fishing is a fun sport and very easy to get into. The best way to learn more about fly fishing is to buy a beginner book. Books in the For Dummies or Idiots Guides books on fly fishing are great reads and will really break down all the basics for a beginner.
Richard Grubb - I have over 6 years of experience as a professional pastry chef. I also have a blog about fly fishing as well as many other blogs.
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