Fly fishing is a technique that can be enjoyed by anglers of all ages and gender. This outdoor activity is a great pastime that is exciting, fun and one that helps to teach patience. After all, to be a success at fly fishing the angler must be patient. Fly fishing got its name because this technique uses a fly rod, line and artificial fly lures to catch fish.
The fly rod is designed to have a very flexible tip and normally ranges around seven to nine feet in length. The line is usually coated with plastic and weighs enough to allow you to cast the line directly into the targeted area. The flies used for this type of fishing range in a variety of sizes, colors and weights.
In the past, fly fishing was mainly used to catch trout but anglers are now learning that it is a great technique for catching bass as well. If you have done a lot of fishing in the past, then you know that bass can put up quite a
fight that can last for a long period of time. This makes fly fishing even more exciting and fun which is one of the reasons why bass fly fishing is becoming more popular all the time.
You will find that it makes a difference in the amount of success you have when bass fly fishing if you learn as much as you can about their natural habitat. This would include everything from knowing the type of food they eat naturally to where the best fishing places are located. Below you will find some basic information about bass that can help make each one of your fishing trips a more fun and successful one.
Basic Information about Bass
Bass eat a variety of foods but some species of bass may prefer one type over another. Where the bass is located will also affect what types of food they eat because different types of food sources are found in different types of water.
It would be to your advantage to learn about the natural food source in the area you are fishing so you will be able to better choose your lures. Some of the most popular natural foods for the largemouth and smallmouth bass are flies, crayfish, nymphs, worms and baitfish.
Bass can see very well in all types of water but they tend to be blinded by the sun shining through the water, which is why they stay mostly in the shallows. Due to their ability to see so well, they will go after the bait you present if it is done correctly. Bass will lay in wait and when potential food swims by, they snatch it up and return to their previous position.
July 1, 2009
Bass Fly Fishing – How to Do it, Tips
June 30, 2009
Fly Fishing in Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge, Colorado is known for its majestic mountains that draw hikers, bikers, skiers and snowboarders from all over the country. The mountains and trails of Breckenridge is busting with activity and excitement in every turn. But amidst the splendor of the trails, summit country’s numerous rivers and streams is also overflowing with excitement of different water sports. Whitewater rafting and fly fishing just to name a few. So if you’re planning a trip to Breckenridge, consider spending some time in the water, a day of two of fly fishing will guarantee you a relaxing, engaging and exciting time of spending the day outdoors. Remember to check rules and regulations for limits and restrictions, there are different rules for each body of water. Make sure to acquire a fishing license as well.
Expert fly fishers usually flock to Breckenridge when the run off starts, Breckenridge local fishing spots are popular because not only do they have the best trouts to catch but the view is just fantastic. But even experts don’t know the waters that well, so they hire a guide to take them to the best spots. So if you’re new to fly fishing, you ought to hire a guide as well, they will give you tips on the best techniques to hook that trout, or what kind of fly bests attracts a kind of fish, or even teach you how to do a perfect cast.
When you’re new to the sport, it never hurts to read and learn about the sport beforehand. Getting some background of the new sport you want to try out will definitely help you. Even though guides will help you through the most basic information first, it never hurts to study on your own before taking your trip. Take the extra step to learn about fly fishing, read about the sport, the gear, the equipment and its uses, but most of all; the basic principles of fly fishing. Make sure to acquire a license and check on the internet and read about the different regulations and limits of fly fishing in the area you are going as well.
Now you feel you’re ready to spend the day fishing. Not quite yet. Make sure you have the right gear in order for you to have the most fun out of the day in the water. Spending the day in the water is sure to keep you wet and cold, so make sure you have wader and boots. Boots are necessary to keep you upright when wading in the water. Their soles are made for the slippery stream and river beds. Waders are worn to keep you dry in general. Beginners and even professional fishermen that don’t know the fishing areas well are bound to some slips and falls throughout the day. Since you will be spending most of your time on your behind, well fit waders will definitely keep you dry. Being wet and cold is not so much fun than going home because you are wet and cold. That could totally ruin what is supposed to be a perfect fishing day. Make sure to wear a wading belt. When you’re casting, most of the action is done by your upper body, from the waist up, leaning forward and back can take a toll in your lower spine, wading belts help prevent this, they also help keep the water out of your waders when you fall and water starts to seep in, wading belts are know to save lives too. Spending the day outdoors mean getting close to nature, and too close to insects. So instead of taking your concentration from fishing because the flies are bothering you, slather a generous amount of insect repellent, make sure it is non-toxic for the fish and other wildlife. Breckenridge is known for its sun filled days too, so to keep yourself sun burn free, apply sunblock every few hours, and make sure its non toxic too. Wear a hat and sun glasses to complete the look. Keep hydrated by taking frequent sips of water or your favorite energy drink.
Fly fishing is a very popular sport. It can be both very relaxing and quite exciting too. And you will probably enjoy the sport more when you’re surrounded with the most beautiful Rocky Mountains covered with aspen trees and wildflowers. Whichever season you’re coming, fly fishing in Breckenridge will most definitely be on top of your must to do list the next year.
June 30, 2009
80% of Trout Food is Found on the River Bed or Just Off of It! – so Czech Nymphing is an Essential Fly Fishing Technique
Czech Nymphing – The Essential Fly Fishing Technique
Czech nymphing was introduced to the UK in the 1990 World Championships. The Czech team beat the UK International teams on the Welsh River Dee. The Czechs caught grayling in numbers from places that were thought impossibly fast or deep previously. This sent shockwaves through the world of competition angling. The technique is today considered to be pretty much a standard – an essential part of every grayling anglers armoury.Firstly, let’s take a look at the flies, the Czech nymph has many, many variations, but all are based upon one simple design, utilising a heavily-leaded hook. They are intended to be fished very deep, in fast water, weight & a slim profile are important.
Tackle
A 5 or 6-weight rod will be sufficient, 9′ to 10′ is ideal for better control of the flies. Leader should be of about 9′ in length, NOT tapered as they are counter-productive as tapered leader won’t sink quickly enough. Just use something like 6lb down to the top dropper, with 4lb from there down. Use two 5-6″ droppers, one about 18″ above the point fly, the other about 18″ above that. The true Czech method is to fish the heaviest nymph on the top dropper, so that it helps carry the other flies down to the correct level. To help ensure rapid sinking of the flies, degrease the leader. You will be looking for takes on the end of the flyline, so depending on your eyesight you may wish to use some sort of bite indicator.
Tactics
Obviously, with this technique you do not need to restrict yourself to Czech nymphs. The key is to use heavily-weighted flies, so goldheads, caddis will do just as well. ’Matching the hatch’ is not a priority with this fishing! This is an active searching method and, as such, technique is more important than specific pattern.
Andy is a passionate fisherman and always looking at new materials and flies and their effects on the quarry fish.
June 28, 2009
Finding Solitude While Fly Fishing in Montana
One of the best parts about the sport of fly fishing is experiencing the scenery and calmness around you as you are trying to land your big fish. Montana is a great place to find some solitude while fly fishing. In fact, the vast expanses that surround the rivers and streams in Montana can provide you with some of the most relaxing solitude anywhere.
Montana fly fishing is legendary. Anglers from all over the world travel to Montana to experience fly fishing the blue ribbon trout rivers and pristine mountain lakes. Whether an angler seeks to battle trophy sized wild rainbow trout on the Yellowstone River or to experience the solitude of a high mountain lake, Montana provides fly fishing experiences like no other place can.
Montana provides such an abundance of opportunities that visiting anglers frequently have difficulty in deciding where to start their fly fishing adventure. There are so many beautiful places in the hills of Montana that can provide both solitude and great fishing, many people might be overwhelmed. But so many choices provide for some amazing chances at bagging that championship fish!
For example, Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park is a beautiful spot for fly fishing. Flanked by mountains, this lake is not only a beautiful place to catch fish; it’s also an amazing spot for reflecting and relaxation.
Of course, the Yellowstone River is the longest river in Montana. It is free of any major dams, and its flow is not regulated in any way, so you can find an abundance of fish in the solitude of the mountain air. In fact, the Yellowstone River is internationally known as one of the premier trout rivers in the United States.
Even though you can expect to catch a variety of trout including rainbow and brown, you will also find whitefish and sturgeon aplenty. Even though the Yellowstone River is quite well known for its fly fishing in Montana, it is not overtaken by so many fly fishers that you can’t find a spot. It remains a beautiful secret available to those who are looking for the solitude of the Montana countryside.
Finding solitude while fly fishing in Montana is a relatively easy proposition. All you need to do is a little bit of research and ask around. Those who are proud of the fly fishing waters in Montana are always more than happy to share the beauty of their state with people who are wanting to fish the waters.
June 28, 2009
Fly Fishing in Canada
Canada is a beautiful place to visit. When you are planning a fly fishing trip, you’ll find an amazing adventure in Canada! Many of the rivers and lakes where fly fishing is the best are in remote areas, so when you choose fly fishing in Canada, you’ll have privacy with the added perk of some great fishing!
Some of the best fly fishing in Canada is found in the province of Ontario. There are many lodges you can choose from to stay at when you are there, but be warned that most of them are in very remote places where you are likely to be left alone with your party and can only get in and out by plane or train.
The Brown Bear lake system in Ontario is considered one of the best fly-in trophy smallmouth bass lakes in the area. The fish here average between two and three pounds, but four pound fish are common every season with some trophy wall hangers of 5-6 pounds being caught each year.
Norse Lake is a prime example of a remote Canadian fly-in wilderness lake. The lake is protected by a high, picturesque landscape that stays relatively calm even in windy weather. Here, you can catch beautiful walleye, Northern Pike, and smallmouth bass. Trophy sized fish are found every year, so fish this lake for some great opportunities.
Populus Lake offers twelve miles of beautiful water and land for you to explore when fly fishing in Canada. There are numerous channels and bays dotting this lake with all sort of landscape features like rock outcrops and weed beds which are prime breeding ground and hiding places for fish. This lake is situated in a very remote area with walleyes, trout, and Northern Pike in abundance.
Picture a cool, clear Canadian lake with lots of trophy sized smallmouth bass and Northern Pike and you’ll have Treelined Lake. This lake is so clear, you will be able to see the fish clearly near the shoreline. Wildlife is abundant here and it’s not uncommon to see a moose feeding on the shoreline in the twilight. You’ll find some real trophy sized fish on Treelined Lake with Northern Pike averaging over 5 pounds and smallmouth bass at 4-5 pounds.
Because so many fly fishing spots in Canada are located in remote locations, you’ll find peace and serenity during your fly fishing trip there. Enjoy the beauty of the Canadian wilderness while you catch the fish of your dreams. There are so many choices available to you that when you choose Canada for your next fly fishing trip, you’re sure to come away a winner either way!
June 28, 2009
Fly Fishing Calendar
What are the best times to try and schedule a fly fishing expedition? When we talk about a fly fishing calendar, we aren’t referring to a printed date book that you can hang on your wall. We are talking about targeting and specifying the right times to fish and the right places to fish at.
The things you need to look at most when considering a fly fishing calendar is when the water will be at the right temperature that is prime for catching fish. Depending on the area you are looking at for your fly fishing trip will depend on the right time to go.
In some places like California, the fishing is pretty good year-round. While in other places such as Washington, you’ll want to avoid the water in the winter as the cold temperatures will stress the fish and they won’t be as plentiful.
Generally, the fly fishing calendar shows the best fishing in the spring and summer months. Early fall will also find some places showing good fishing as well. Almanacs can be helpful guides to guide you towards the best fishing times as can constant updating through Internet web sites.
Most places will give weekly, and sometimes daily, fishing reports on their websites. They can tell you where the fish are biting and where the best places are to cast your line. They generally keep these areas of their sites updated pretty regularly, so you can get quality reports just by looking at what others have to say.
Fish like warmer waters, although, there are other species that thrive in cold water such as salmon or steelhead. In general, warm water will attract more fish. However, if the water is too warm, the fish will be sluggish and will navigate to places where the water is cooler.
The fly fishing calendar used most often by experienced fishermen has been compiled over a period of time. They spend a considerable amount of effort to estimate where and when the best fishing will occur. Then they share it with others. That’s one of the best parts of fly fishing – the camaraderie and sharing that can come about with a love of the sport.
You can compile your own fly fishing calendar with a little time and effort. Just do your homework and keep copious notes. When you see a trend, you’ll know it’s time to fish! Then be sure to help your fellow fishermen as they try to figure out what you already know. They’d do it for you!
June 27, 2009
Tips When Fly Fishing For Bass
Anyone who really enjoys getting out in the fresh air to do a little bit of fishing may end up developing a taste for fly fishing. This type is quite a popular, and can involve fishing for trout or even bass. It basically depends on what type of fish you wish to catch!
The great news for anyone looking to getting into fishing with a fly rod for bass is that there are several places throughout the United States that are known as hot spots. With a little bit of research, you could even find a couple of wonderful areas within a decent driving distance from your home.
Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and striped bass can be caught with a fly fishing rod. Some of them can be challenging, especially because they are a fairly aggressive fish that are large in size. As a matter of fact, many fishermen will tell you that their feisty nature is one of the main reasons why they like bass fishing in the first place. The thrill of the challenge and the reward that comes with the catch can make all of your preparations very worthwhile.
Fly fishing for bass will require a rod that is able to stand up to the entire process. The rod will generally end up going through a tremendous amount of pressure once a bass is hooked on the line. Not being able to hold the weight will result in breakage of your rod or even the loss of the entire rod altogether into the water.
Additionally, it is also important that you do a little bit of research on rods before you actually buy one. You can always go to your local tackle store and get a feel for your fly rod before buying it. This will ensure that you will have a fly rod that is comfortable for you and easy to grasp. These considerations will be important once the bass is caught up on the hook.
After you choose the fly rod that suits your comfort level, also consult with the people at your local fishing tackle shop to make sure that you get the best flies to go along with the size of bass that you will be fishing for. There are even a number of flies that can be used in fly fishing that will help you with smallmouth bass fishing, largemouth bass fishing and striped bass fishing. Asking the expert at the store will ensure that you have everything you need before you head out.
June 27, 2009
Fly Fishing Rod-Reel Combos
Some people refer to fly fishing as an art. It is graceful to watch and quite amazing to see expert anglers dancing the fly on the water. In order to partake in this angling dance you need the proper fly fishing rod-reel combo. Fly fishing rod-reel combos can be purchased as a set or one can pair up their own.
There are several different types of fly-fishing reels; small, medium, and large arbors. The size of the arbor relates to how much line your reel uses per crank of the rod. Qualities to look for in your fly fishing reel are if they are made of a high quality aluminum, designed for precision, have a smooth drag with instant line release, waterproof and corrosion free. You can purchase fly fishing reels now for left or right-handed anglers and some companies offer reels that have been ergonomically designed for the avid angler to avoid undo stress on the anglers’ wrist.
There are three basic fly fishing actions used, slow, medium and fast. Slow action rods are great with smaller fish and are extremely bendable. They are great for accuracy but can be difficult to control for a novice angler. The slow action rods are best for short-range casting. For novice anglers, the medium action rod is better. They still have the flexibility needed in the middle and tip of the rod and are great for any range casting.
The fast action fly fishing rods do not offer much bend except in the tip. They are better suited for long-range casting and bigger fish. Rod length is also significant in your choice. Short rods measure less then eight feet, have less action, and are a good choice for smaller creeks or streams. Medium rods range between eight and nine feet and are universal as far as cast lengths and water types. Large fly fishing rods measure over nine feet and are best suited for larger fish and bodies of water.
Fly-fishing rods are made out of fiberglass or graphite. Graphite is the more expensive of the two but due to their lightweight in nature, allow for better accuracy. Fiberglass is universal in use but actually holds up longer then the graphite. The rod material ultimately is more of a personal preference. The anglers grip on the rod is important in relation to the size of game. The Cigar grip works well for smaller fish. Half-Well grips are generally on medium rods and work well for medium sized fish. The Full-Well grips you will find on large rods for large game fish.
Your fly fishing rod and reel combo does not have to be expensive to be effective. In pairing up your own set, make sure your reel balances out your rod; large reel requires a large rod. By matching up your rod, to your reel to the intended target, you cannot go wrong.
June 26, 2009
Great Fly Fishing Tips
Most people think of fly fishing as a peaceful sport. They picture themselves standing on the banks of a beautiful river, whipping a fishing rod back and forth and sending a fishing line flying back and forth above their heads in a manner that is relaxed and graceful. They can see the line flying about, tempting one trout after another. Maybe they’ve seen a movie that features fishing, or they went with a friend. Whatever the reason, the person is now interested in fishing and wants to learn more.
Chances are this person is you. You’ve done your research. You’ve gone shopping and spent a small fortune on fishing equipment. Now you are ready to head out to the water…technically. Sure you have all of the right gear, but have you been given any fly fishing tips?
This article serves to give you a few basic fly fishing tips that, hopefully, will help you come home much richer in fish than when you left.
Make sure that you practice casting. The more time you spend practicing your casting, the better you will get at it. The best way to practice casting is to use a flat surface outside of your house (definitely do not practice casting indoors, it would lead to inevitable disaster). Mark a few targets on this flat surface and then go out for a little bit each day and practice casting to these targets. This will help you to improve your casting accuracy.
Choose a rod that feels comfortable for you. You know what kind you will want, flexibility wise, but choose one that is the right length as well. If you are short, you will probably get hung up if you try to use a rod that is too long. To this end, you will want to learn how to hold your fly rod correctly. This type of fishing is not a quick sport. You will want to be able to hold onto this rod comfortably for long periods of time.
The best bait is a natural prey of the fish you are trying to catch. There are experts who swear that the fancy bait is not necessary and that all you need is a simple worm. In the event that you would like to buy the fancy bait, you should choose bait that mimics a worm or a grub and is brightly colored so that it will attract the fish’s attention.
Waterproof your dry flies. This will help them to float on the water for a longer period of time. You can do this with Scotch-guard (which can be found in almost any general goods store). The waterproofing keeps them from becoming waterlogged and sinking.
Make sure that your knots are tied tightly and effectively. A knot that is tied improperly or that is too loose could spell disaster in fly fishing.
These are just a few of the many fishing tips that anglers will share with each other when they are out fly fishing. A simple search through the internet or your local library is sure to turn up pages more.
Get The Insider, Professional Fly-fishing Tricks, Tips and Techniques at http://www.flyfishinglessons.org
June 26, 2009
Fly Fishing- Discover The Joy Of The Exciting Pastime
If you are trying to look for some new hobby and cannot decide if you want something in form of a sport or something artful and creative or simply something to keep yourself relaxed and escaped from pressure. Well, you could plan doing all of them simply by learning fly fishing. It would not merely be a relaxing experience, but rewarding as well.
At the outset, before you get into fly fishing, you need to get in contact with someone who knows to fly-fish. You could approach your friend, a local group, co-worker or even a local guide or an instructor. This would be helpful when you have questions in mind and when you want some partner to enjoy with the hobby. As this is done, you could get the basic gear and head towards some spot.
How to go about the same…
Whether you prefer simply wading in water or plan to go in the boat, always ensure to go around the afternoon. It is true that fishing, conventionally, is either an early evening or an early morning activity; however, when you land up in a new unknown area, chances are that you might get lost, left in dark or remain stumbling around the place you don’t know much about. Ensure to get a map about the waters which would explain the turns and bends and do everything possible to know and learn about the waters where you would be fishing. It would be a wise idea to let some acquaintance know about the venue and your plans before you go fly fishing. It would always take a little bit of your experience and time before you learn fly fishing.
Sources to learn
If you are interested to know more about Fly fishing or gain some the knowledge in depth, you would check out for DVD’s, books, easy instructions at some local tackle shop, magazines or even the internet etc for the topic. It would be real fun in discovering ways to learn fly fish; however when things are new it could turn to be frustrating. Ensure to give ample time to yourself and bring in the patience, as you go about learning this activity. It would be good to keep practicing your techniques before approaching fishing. You could practice casting and any newly acquired skill in sore open space or your backyard. The art of fish flying is similar to imitating the natural and regular patterns of a fly. These skills would come right through proper practice. Never attempt to practice in water when you are just beginning. This is because you may get distracted and start generic fishing instead of practicing fly fishing. You may also not pay attention towards the area surrounding you, which could be unsafe especially if the focus is on the casting. Discovering various skills of fly fishing is indeed a real fun. You could consider it to be some activity to be done along with your family or a group of friends or perhaps simply an individual pursuit.