One of the popular debates that have remained over the years is naming the best expedition between fly fishing vs spin fishing. Generally, fly fishing takes place on the water in motion. However, reservoirs, ponds and lakes are also explored this way regularly. In comparison, spin fishing, which is also called bait fishing, is done mainly on reservoirs, ponds and lakes.
In this guide, you will learn answers to common questions like what is fly fishing, what is spin fishing, among others. You will also come to understand the peculiarities of each of them and the benefits of learning both types of fishing skills.
Table of Contents
An Overview of Fly Fishing
The main objective of fly fishing is to deceive a fish into thinking that a fly is in sight. This artificial fly is made with items like feathers and hair. When it is professionally done, the artificial fly looks like regular bait-fishes or invertebrates. You can cast the fly with a reel, weighted line or fly rod.
Since the fly has no weight, you need to be perfect with the casting techniques because you cannot use regular methods. One of the most demanding tasks to do is master the casting technique, which is one of the things beginners struggle with. However, if you are resilient and watchful, you will pick up the skill fast.
People who do fly fishing desire to challenge themselves with a more demanding form of fishing. Usually, they use this challenging experience to see how many fishes they can capture within a stipulated time frame. The concept of fly fishing was borne out of the scope of providing a fishing expedition challenge.
With this scope, professional anglers have exploited this method to create a seamless way of catching fish. Fly fishing is more easy and peaceful, and it comes with some benefits like relaxation and the likes. The beauty of fly fishing is, it can be done in both salt and freshwater environments. Hence, it is a skill you must harness and use to your advantage.
Also Read: Best Spinning Rods – Top Buyer’s Guide
An Overview of Spin Fishing
The scope of spin fishing is to capture lots of fishes. It would interest you to know that spin fishing is a multi-purpose way of fishing. If you want to capture various species in addition to trout, you would be surprised at the massive results you will yield from it.
Based on professional anglers’ views, they believe that the use of resistance lures like crank baits gives spin fishing an edge over fly fishing. While this view is not far-fetched, the real purpose of spin fishing is usually to bring great results. The type of reel and rod used in spin fishing is different from the ones used in fly fishing.
If you want to go spin fishing, it is best to use the closed-face reel or the open-faced reel. The spin fishing rod does not come with a trigger at its base. And this feature is what primarily distinguishes it from a regular baitcasting fish rod. As you would expect, the casting technique of spin fishing is different from fly fishing.
Differences in Technique Between Fly Fishing vs Spin Fishing
The fishing technique of fly vs spin fishing is largely different. For fly fishing, the weight of the graded fly fish line shoves the fly in the direction of the prey, which is also the target. However, in spin fishing, the casted weighted hook shoves the lure in the fish’s direction.
It is vital to note that fly fishing gear cannot be used for spin fishing, and spin fishing gear cannot be used for fly fishing. If you are new to fishing, you have to know that one of the differences between fly fishing and spin fishing lies in how they are exploited. Both methods of fishing are not the same.
However, if you feel more adventurous, you can combine both of them by doubling the equipment. If you are looking to cover a broad range of water within a short period, the better method is spin fishing. However, anglers prefer fly fishing because it allows for a definite embodiment of food origins. Hence, you are likely to get more fish with fly fishing.
The best technique for trout is fly fishing because all trout feed on bugs. On the other hand, if you are not stuck on trout, you can catch anything you want, provided you can create a replica of the food source. Also, if you have good fishing gear, you can catch any fish you want with fly fishing. Even though both of them can be used in saltwater, the more preferred method is spin fishing.
Also Read: Best Fly Fishing Reels – Expert Buying Guide
The Biggest Difference Between Fly-Fishing and Spin Fishing
It would amaze you to know; that gear is the greatest difference between fly fishing and spin fishing. For fly fishing, it employs the leader and calibrated fly line to move towards the target. Spin fishing makes use of the weighted hook casting to reach its destination.
Spin fishing allows a professional angler to cover a broad area of water in a shorter period. And for fly fishing, it is easy for the angler to precisely symbolize food sources during fly fishing. Bearing this in mind, fly fishing provides more fun for anglers than spin fishing. The fact is, you will derive more fun from catching fishes via fly fishing than spin fishing.
When you reach your fishing spot and see several fishes coming to the surface to feed on dry flies, using a spin fishing rod would be a disservice to you. However, if you use a fly fishing rod, you are entitled to several hours of catching many fishes. Some professional anglers have opined that fly fishing ensures that you have a better relationship with the water.
If you want to enjoy fly fishing, you have to carefully monitor the water thoroughly to pinpoint the fish. It is also vital to spend ample time dissecting the water conditions. When it comes to spin fishing, you don’t need to know more about fly fishing. For some people, they find fun and enjoyment when they learn and connect to the water body.
Which One is Best Between Fly Fishing and Spin Fishing
Most anglers usually find it challenging to pick between fly fishing or spinning. However, the fact is, deciding on the best between fly fishing vs spin depends on your preference. What some people do is, they try out both types of fishing to find the one that matches their interest more.
It is not a bad idea to learn both fishing skills because you might need any of them at any time. People who are used to spin fishing can learn several things by learning fly fishing techniques. The same applies to fly fishermen. If you prefer to fish in saltwater, you will prefer spin fishing, and if you want to catch some fish in a lake, a spin rod will be of better use.
In comparison, if you seek an exhilarating fishing experience that you can have with family and friends, fly fishing is the best option. And because it is not as easy to learn as spin fishing, it provides the satisfaction you crave when it is mastered. The fact is, there is no straightforward way to tell which is best for you.
Spin fishing rods are inexpensive. For fly fishing rods, you can hire one to test before you purchase your own. The moment you master the art of fly fishing, it can be added to your hobbies list. So, if you are considering the cost of buying the fly fishing gear, one source of relief is the long-term prospects.
It would interest you to know that several fly fishermen use their fly fishing gear for a long time. And when you integrate other factors and benefits, you will see that it was a valuable purchase.
Also Read: Baitcaster VS Spinning Reel – Make Your Job Easier
Conclusion
When it comes to fly fishing vs spin fishing, the truth is, we all have our preferences. There is a fly fishing vs spin fishing debate among anglers on the best method of fishing. However, it would amaze you to know that no one is wrong and everyone is correct.
Some people do not see anything fun in fishing; what they are after is catching fish for feeding or sale. Such people will not fancy fly fishing; instead, they might prefer spin fishing. Although nothing beats having to learn a new fishing skill because it makes you feel resourceful, and it helps you connect properly with nature.
For fly fishing, it can be done at any age, and your experience or fitness level is not a barrier. The process of using a fly bait to capture any fish species is often an interesting one. And to achieve this, you just need basic knowledge and some simple tools.
