Fly fishing is a lifelong pursuit and hobby, suitable for young children to senior citizens. It takes skill, patience, knowledge and keen powers of observation. Oh, and patience. Did we mention patience?
In fly fishing, the angler uses an artificial fly to catch fish. The fly must be light enough to float on the surface of the water and the angler will use the appropriate equipment and methods to make the fly appear to be a meal for fish that swim just below the water. The fly is cast using a fly rod, reel and a specialized weighted line. Many anglers hand-tie their own flies to resemble natural insects and other food. Others purchase premade flies.
For your first few times, we recommend consulting a reliable local guide. He or she can help match your equipment to the local conditions and species of insects and fish.
Fly Rod:
The exact specs depend on your chosen location and type of fish. Most beginners should start with a nine-foot rod and four or five weight line.
Fly Reel:
Like rods, reels vary considerably in price. For basic fishing in rivers for smaller fish, the characteristics of the reel don't matter much.
Fly Line:
There are many different types of line, stronger lines are used for larger fish, but also weigh more, so a balance in weight and strength is essential. Check out Rio's Line Selector tool for help.
Leader and tippet:
The leader and tippet connect the end of the fly line to your fly.
Flies:
Basic fly packages will include a range of dry flies, nymphs and streamers.
Line cleaner, clippers, nail knot tool, fly box, fly floatant:
Pack extras of many of the small items you'll use a lot. We recommend small tool kits available in most shops.
Sunglasses:
Polarized sunglasses will cut down on glare and let you see into the water.
Waders:
These come in a variety of types, including zip-fronts, standard front and boot-type. Sizing can be tricky, so we recommend buying from a brick-and-mortar store where you can try them on.
Boots:
Felt or rubber-soled boots keep you standing in the water.
Take Me Fishing
Run by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, this site helps beginners get started.
Redington
Redington manufactures a wide variety of equipment for anglers of all skill levels.
10 Things I Wish I Knew When Learning to Fly Fish
An excerpt from this article: “Everyone starts out in the same place. Some have friends or family to help them along and learn at a quicker pace, others are venturing down this road alone. There is always something out there though that you wish you had a little insight into when you are getting started fly fishing.”
Beginner rod-and-reel packages
“A great way to get started is to purchase a preconfigured package of rod, reel, line. You can be certain that the equipment is properly matched and balanced to improve your casting. You will also save some money by purchasing preconfigured packages.”
Videos by Orvis
Sponsored by rod-maker Orvis, these videos cover everything you need to know.
Podcasts by Orvis
More in-depth information in the form of audio podcasts.