I’ve often described fly fishing as my “yoga on the river”. Standing in a river for hours focusing on placing your fly or perfecting that next cast, in one word- Zen. It was always a novel idea but I didn’t try fly fishing until I was in my late 20’s. I was a tad intimidated by the gear, the knots and understanding what flies to use. But after going on a few walk and wade adventures and not one to play the “helpless” gal I was soon determined to learn and become self sufficient so my better half and I could enjoy our own river stretches without me running back to get a fly tied or fish unhooked.
My first order of business was to purchase my very own 6 weight rod, line and small collection of flies. Although I didn’t know what half of it really meant or that I MAY have chosen flies purely based on colour (ok maybe just one). The way I saw it was my gear, my problem- so let’s figure it out…
Understanding the Basics:
First step is understanding your rod, reel and line from top to bottom. Here are the basic connections and knots from reel to fly. Although to be truthful by buying pre-tied leaders, I really had to just perfect the Surgeon’s Knot to connect leader to tippet and the Improved Clinch Knot to connect the all important fly. (Check out the video links as I find it easier to learn than from pictures). If you have shaky hands like me, it can be an extremely frustrating task to learn a new knot, but practice make perfect! It’s also extremely satisfying to reel in a fish with gear that you set up completely yourself.
Don’t Be Afraid to Accessorize!
It’s just the worst when you are standing in a river trying to get a fly out and you really need forceps, or a net. Or your fly is in need of repair or extra floatant. If you are planning to walk and wade it’s more than likely you will not be a hop, skip and a jump away from your vehicle or even another person. So don’t skimp on getting yourself the basic accessories:
- Lanyard for carrying extra tippet, flotant, nippers and forceps (See Orvis’s Women’s River Lanyard in the link)
- Polarized Sunglasses- So much easier to see the fish with
- Backpack or Wading Vest- Carry your lunch, extra jacket and first aid kit and still fish with ease.
- Net
- Hat
And remember to enjoy your time on the river! Fly fishing is a lifelong pursuit so enjoy learning and don’t feel guilty if you throw on a wildcard “pink” fly- just cause it looks fun 🙂
