The Growing Hobby Sport of Fly Fishing

For those not indoctrinated in the ways of fishing, chances are that you will not know the difference between fly fishing or which end of a rod and reel to use. Fly fishing is an art onto itself and can be quite different from a regular rod and reel casting method you use for fishing in a lake, bay or off-shore.

Defining the Sport

Fly fishing is a time-honored angling technique in which you use fake flies and other artificial “bait” that resembles the natural food that fish consume. These flies are often made from natural materials like feathers and fur as well as artificial materials like plastic which can then be tied to simulate fish’s favorite foods like insects, larvae or minnows.

The fishing rods used in the sport are usually light in weight but the fishing line will be heavy so that it will have the weight and force needed for casting it out. The rods could be made out of natural materials like bamboo as it is light, yet durable and strong or equally light synthetic materials like fiberglass or a carbon graphite combination.

There is a reel spool, a bit different construction from a casting reel that is attached to the fly fishing rod to hold the fishing line. Most fly reels are operated manually rather than having automated parts. The line often used in this particular type of fishing is made using a monofilament core encased in a plastic sheath, typically PVC for strength and durability and come in a variety of diameters.

How to Get Started

Fly fishing is a quickly becoming a more popular sport as people are seeking sporting hobbies that are relaxing, fun and challenging. Both men and women are finding themselves immersed in the world of fly fishing with its unique casting style and techniques for capturing a variety of fish in different settings from creeks to lakes to oceans.

While this particular sport can get quite expensive, you can get started for around $100 - $150 for a basic rod, reel, fishing line and specially tied flies. As time goes on and you improve with practice, you can invest in higher quality equipment and take more risks like booking a fly fishing vacation in the streams of Alaska or in the New England area where the creeks, streams and lake are bountiful.

If you have no knowledge of the sport, stick with the advice of seasoned sales professionals who have been fly fishing themselves. Invest in a few lessons at your local fishing and outdoor store or pick up a few instructional videos so that you have the basics of casting down before your first fly fishing foray.