New to Fly Fishing? Buy the Correct Equipment Designed for the Beginner

Fly fishing is much more challenging than spinning reel or ‘regular’ fishing. In regular fishing you cast your lure or bait into the water, it sinks and then you wait for a fish to swim by and grab it. But if you are interested in catching the big fish and the smarter ones, you will have to be more clever as they will not generally bite on a lure or a worm dangling from a hook.

The type of fly fishing gear you will need depends on the kind of fishing you plan on doing. Are you going to try to catch salmon from the coast or smaller trout from a river in the mountain? Each will require different equipment to maximize your ability in catching the fish you want.

Fly fishing rods are designed to cast for a specific line weight. The size number on a fly fishing rod is linked to the size of the fly line you are using. For instance, a three weight rod is made to cast a 3 weight line. The larger the number, the bigger the rod and the heavier the line. As a beginner you should choose a rod that is designed for use in streams and ponds which would be five or six weight fly fishing rods.

When choosing fly fishing reels, it is vital that you make sure you buy a reel that was designed for the type of fishing you plan on doing. Just like with the rods, reels are sized according to the type of line being used and the line you use depends upon the type of fish you wish to catch and the location you are fishing. Be sure to buy a reel that is made for fishing in ponds and streams as these fly fishing reels are ideal for the beginner. Look for a reel that features a large arbor which is the center of the reel. If you use a reel with a larger arbor, you will not need to make as many cranks.

Any good fly fisherman will tell you that you should learn tie your own flies as this is the sign of a good fly fisherman. You can find fly tying kits both locally and online that will teach you to tie some of the most used patterns in fly fishing. Remember that fly fishing is more an experience than anything and that it takes time to master the techniques. Consider learning how to cast from someone who has experience fly fishing as it is easiest to learn this way.