Fly fishing is a fishing technique used for capturing fish. The general concept of fly fishing is baiting the fish with a fly and placing it slightly on the water’s surface to attract unsuspecting fishes. The major reason why this technique is used is that fishes primarily feed on invertebrates or bug-like creatures. Hence, it is easier to bait them with this knowledge in mind and capture several of them.
Some people ask questions like “what is fly fishing?” because they confuse it with conventional fishing methods. For other fishing methods other than fly fishing, when the bait is cast, it is given to the fish underneath the water. The only way to beat this confusion is to compare fly fishing to these conventional fishing methods by pointing out their basic peculiarities.
It is correct to say that fly anglers are a different breed, and the reasons are not far-fetched. It would interest you to know that fly anglers have obsessive and compulsive behavior and good attention-to-detail. This is one of the several instances why they have crazy fly fishing ideas, unlike general anglers.
On each fishing expedition, fly anglers learn what makes these fishes tick, and they integrate these lessons into their next fishing trip. Anyone who starts as a beginner fly angler would enjoy the whole growth process because there’s a lot to explore. What’s more, fly fishing provides an avenue for you to relax in some beautiful aquatic surroundings.
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Fly Fishing in Saltwater and Freshwater
Fly fishing can be carried out in salt and freshwater, and anywhere the fish would be lured to opt for a supposed fly. In the United Kingdom, the variation in water temperature is not conspicuous. Fly fishermen focus fully on Salmon or Trout, alongside other species like chub, barbell, pike and grayling.
In other places in the world, fly anglers consider Salmon and Trout as prized possessions. While in the North American region, the difference in the freshwater fishing expedition is between warm-water species like bass and cold water species like Salmon and Trout.
For Saltwater fishing, the regular games for fly anglers are wahoo, marlin and tuna. And because they are large, state-of-the-art fly fishing gear is used to capture them. The reality remains that the fish can targeted with a fly bait; it can be caught.
Also Read: Best Saltwater Fishing Rods – Choose the Right One for You
Vital Tools and Accessories for Fly Fishing
New anglers who are venturing into the world of fly fishing might be challenging for some of them to know the right tools and accessories to use. I have outlined some basic tools and accessories that every fly angler will need for a successful fishing expedition to help new anglers. Below are some quintessential tools and accessories you would need for fishing.
1. Magnetic Release Holder
The Magnetic release holder allows the fisherman to attach the fly fishing net to the fly-fishing vest. The way it works is that the magnetic release holder comes with a magnet that impacts about twelve pounds of brute force, ensuring the net is secured but easily detachable. This allows the angler to proficiently use the net to land any fish of his choice.
If the magnetic release holder is absent, it would be challenging for the angler to grab the net when there is a fish in the catch. Magnetic release holders are not expensive, and generally, they go for around $15. The amazing part about the magnetic release holder is, beginners will find it easy to use after a few trials.
2. Polarized Sunglasses
Several people know Polarized Sunglasses to cut across the glare. When you are fishing, you need polarized sunglasses to view through the glare of the water. This means that anglers are better equipped to see through and into the water. Besides, they can view their fly as it floats on the water.
It is correct to say that an angler who does not have polarized glasses would be “blind.” Depending on your budget, you can get any kind of Polarized glasses as they perform the same function. So, if you want stylish ones, you can be sure they will be fully effective.
There are two primary features that professional anglers would want in their polarized sunglasses. First off, the Polarized sunglasses should come with scratch-resistant lenses. During fishing, any object might come in contact with the lenses and damage them in the process.
With scratch-resistant lenses, potential damages would be deflected. The second feature is durability. It would not be cost-effective for an angler to replace or buy another pair of sunglasses because of an accident. You can get polarized sunglasses ranging from $10 upwards on the market.
3. Fly Dressing/ Fly Floatant
The fly dressing is also called fly floatant, and it is a crucial tool for any professional fisherman. The function of the fly dressing is to ensure the flies are buoyant. Better put, fly dressing helps to keep dry flies floating on the water’s surface. When there is no fly dressing, the dry flies will become quite filled with water, and they will not float adequately.
When a fly does not float properly, the trout will most likely ignore it. The best way to use a fly dressing is to use it on a thoroughly dry fly. Then, the fly should sprayed with the floatant. If the fly is wet, it is best to shake effectively to remove the water. When the fly is dried for a minute or more, apply the floatant.
4. Fishing Hat
A fishing hat is one tool that every angler should have, particularly during summer. The function of the hat is to prevent heat and sunburn. And in combination with the polarized sunglasses, it allows for better performance on the water. You can decide to get a fancy fishing hat or not; what matters is, they all perform the same function.
Also Read: Fly Fishing VS Spin Fishing – Most Effective Tips
Reasons Why Many Anglers Love Fly Fishing
If you have the question “what is dry fly fishing?” or “what is meant by fly fishing?”, then this piece helps you understand why many anglers love fly fishing.
1. It Is a Form of Workout.
It would interest you to know that fly fishing is an accidental form of exercising. If you are not used to going to the gym, engaging in fly fishing is an ideal alternative. And the beauty about it is, you will enjoy the warm and fresh breeze that the water provides, which is good for your lungs. If you spend most of your days flying fishing, there will be a definite change in your physical and mental health.
2. It Teaches You More Tactics.
Generally, people who partake in fly fishing are smarter anglers than their counterparts who don’t, and the reasons are not far-fetched. There are a lot of features to observe when you are undergoing fishing. You will need to pay attention to the water movement, and you also need to understand the feeding habits and patterns of the fish.
This is like a puzzle that enables you to unravel more tactics that make your fishing expedition an interesting and memorable one. You will also learn various seamless ways to lure and capture a fish. Fishing allows you to put your brain to work. You will find yourself contemplating various decisions that would supposedly land you a great catch. This will propel you to come up with your tactics.
3. It Provides a Series of Challenges.
If you are someone who loves being challenged, you need to try out fly fishing. If you want, you can participate in or attend a fly fishing show to see the various exploits fly anglers are performing on the water. You need to realize that fishing is not a sport you will master on your first try.
It is a sport that demands lots of practice before you become an expert. And with each fly fishing expedition comes various challenges that will sustain your interest and make you look forward to the next trip. If you don’t catch a fish during your first trip, you don’t have to discouraged as there would always be another avenue.
4. It Is Interesting and Fun.
There is no one who has participated in fishing that cannot attest that fly fishing is fun. If you are fishing alone or not, fly fishing is one of the best means to enjoy yourself. You will surprised at the immense solitude and satisfaction that you will derive from fly fishing.
You can decide to go into quiet regions where there are not many people and enjoy your fishing expedition. If you are searching for a pastime to enjoy, you can take your friends along with you and have a swell time.
Also Read: Best Fly Fishing Reels – Reviews and Buying Guide
Conclusion
Having read this guide, the question “what is fly fishing?” has been better explained to you, and it is imperative to note that anyone can be a fly angler. It is undeniable that fly fishing is one of the most interesting fishing activities in the world. It is not like a regular fishing expedition; there are fishing tips that allow the angler to become smarter.
And it equips the angler with critical decision-making skills that transcend other aspects of their lives. Though I say anyone can master it, keep in mind that fishing is not an activity that can be mastered instantly. It requires intense practice to get better over time.
