Choosing the perfect fly fishing gear can be overwhelming for newcomers. Walking into a fly shop with racks of seemingly identical rods and staff weathered by thousands of days on the water can be intimidating.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps to take. Let us walk through the components of a complete beginner fly fishing rig.
1. Rod
Fly rods are designed to strike and fight fish, so they must be flexible enough to bend under pressure. That is why a quality rod is an investment you will likely keep for years. However, buying the wrong rod can leave you struggling to achieve your fly fishing dreams or, worse, contribute to waste in delicate ecosystems that put species beyond fish at risk.
You are figuring out what length rod to buy starts with, considering where you will be fishing. If you plan to target small trout on the local creek, consider a 4-5 wt. This is in the middle of the range that works for most beginners but keeps your casting distance realistic as you learn to cast.
New anglers should also consider rod action. A fast action is stiffer and better for learning to cast, while a slow action offers more flexibility for those with a solid casting form. Finally, choose whether to go with a graphite or fiberglass fly rod. Graphite is the standard, but fiberglass has advantages worth considering.
2. Reel
Entering a fly shop with racks of seemingly identical rods and staff with faces weathered by thousands of days on the water can be intimidating for newbies. However, if you have the right tools, you can learn the basic terminology and technicalities to make you feel comfortable navigating the options.
The most essential gear to pick out first is your fly reel. This is because it will build the foundation for your entire setup. It will determine how well you cast your fly and how much effort is required to fight a fish.
A good reel should have a moderate drag system and be easy to use. It should also be sized correctly for the fly line you are using.
The spool size of the reel will dictate the line weight it can accommodate. A giant spool will accommodate heavier lines, while smaller spools can only handle lighter lines. Another thing to look for in a reel is its porting. These holes and open spaces on the reel’s body can help relieve weight or allow more airflow for a smoother drag.
3. Line
There are many fly lines, but what you need depends on where you will be fishing and the flies you will use. In general, beginners should start with a floating line that will allow them to present a variety of flies at the surface and to cast at longer distances.
Choosing the right fly line will depend on many things, but the most crucial consideration is to match the line weight to the rod you have chosen. When purchasing online, check websites that offer discounts like the Orvis promo code suitable for shoppers. Almost all rods will have a recommended line on the package, usually listed by the number of pounds per foot.
This will ensure that the line has enough power to carry your flies. It will also help to ensure that the line turns over nicely. There are also a variety of tapers and densities available, depending on the conditions you will be fishing in. Generally, a shorter, more delicate front taper is best for presenting tiny emergers or dry flies to rising fish. At the same time, complete sinking lines help reach deep water targets that are holding near the bottom.
4. Fly
Depending on the species of fish you want to target, you may need dry flies at the water’s surface, nymphs under the surface, or streamers (more giant flies that mimic baitfish or aquatic life) moving through the water. To ensure you are using the right fly size, you will need a line rated for the type of fly you are targeting; these are labeled by their “line weight,” which varies from 0 to 12 ounces.
To avoid losing your flies while casting, look for a fishing vest or pack with smartly-placed pockets and compartments for storing your flies, leader and tippet material, strike indicators, and accessories like nippers, hemostats, zingers, and floats. Some even have submersible zippers for protection if you end up with a surprise swim or rain shower while on the water.
A good net is also essential to help you land fish safely, especially if you’re practicing catch and release. Consider something that features a moderately long handle for comfort and a rubber mesh to minimize harming the fish when it’s netted.
5. Accessories
The endless gear options can be overwhelming, especially for new anglers. A little guidance is needed to make the best decisions before dropping your paycheck on every conceivable piece of terminal tackle.
For example, the tippet that connects your fly to the leader is critical to success. You need a thin line that is nearly invisible in the water and strong enough to withstand the fighting strength of a fish. Choose fluorocarbon or monofilament based on the environment you will be fishing in. Fluorocarbon is more expensive, but it floats better and is less visible to the fish you are targeting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, essential accessories include a pair of polarized sunglasses to help you see fish beneath the surface and float to keep your dry flies afloat. A magnetic net release lets you quickly grab your net while landing a fish.
Thermometers are a valuable accessory to have on hand for predicting hatches and determining the activity level of fish. Using a zinger, these thermometers pin nicely to a pack or vest and provide an easy-to-read readout.
