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CATEGORIESIf you’re looking to get hooked on fly fishing, you’re in luck. This Active Junky guide is packed with all the info you need to know before purchasing a fly fishing set-up.
[Editor’s note: This guide is designed for a beginner angler looking to chase trout, farm pond bass, bluegill, etc. on medium sized rivers, ponds and lakes.]
Rod length: The length of the rod determines how well your rod will perform in certain casting situations. On small streams where casting room is limited, a 5’ to 8’ rod is optimal. On a larger river, when you are casting longer distances or require more line control, a longer rod is a better option. For beginners, an 8’6’’ – 9’ rod is a solid place to start as it can handle a multitude of scenarios.
Rod weight and line weight: The weight of your rod and line will help determine what types of fish you can cast to, catch, and control effectively. This is important because mismatching line weight with rod weight results in poor casts. For example, a rod rated for #5 line is designed to cast and “load” a 5-weight line most efficiently. Heavier line will over “load” or bend the rod, and a line that is too light would not “load” the rod adequately. For a beginner, a solid weight is a 5-weight rod.
Pieces: The rod is broken down, generally, into 2 to 4 pieces. Obviously, it’s easier to travel with a rod that breaks down into more pieces. Generally, the 4+ piece rods will be more expensive, but the added cost is worth it if you plan on traveling.
Prices: Pricing ranges from $40 over a grand. A beginner on a budget can obtain an excellent starter rod for around $100.
Therefore, a beginner rod should be medium-fast action, 8’6’’-9’0’’ long, 5-weight and 4 pieces.
Cheap leaders are tempting, however this is one area of the set up where you want to buy higher quality items; quality leaders will last you longer and are less likely to break.
Size: Leaders come in various tippet sizes (diameters). The tippet is the end of the line that connects directly to your fly. Tippet diameters are displayed by a number followed by an “x”, i.e. 3x, 4x, 5x, etc. Generally, you’ll want to stick to a leader with a tippet size of 5x, which has a break point around 3.5-4lbs.
Type: Leaders are made with two types of materials, monofilament and fluorocarbon. Monofilament has more strength and stretch, but fluorocarbon is less visible to fish. Monofilament is more reliable as it is stronger, however on heavily pressured trout streams, fluorocarbon makes all the difference. When fishing for bass or bluegill and streamer fishing for trout, monofilament is a safer bet.
Traditional anglers have used vests for years. More recently, the “fly pack” has become more popular. Vests provide a simple and effective way to carry all the necessities; they’re comfortable, slender, and won’t get in your way. Packs provide more room. However, they can be more cumbersome and less comfortable. Vests range from $50 all the way up to a few hundred dollars, so keep it simple (unless you are trying to make a fashion statement). Packs follow a similar price pattern; the key is finding a pack that fits your immediate needs. If you have extra disposable income and want the versatility, get a vest for small trips and a pack for longer ones.
The next step? Waders. Now that you have all the gear to catch the fish, you need to be able to comfortably pursue them.
There are three main choices when it comes to selecting waders; neoprene, rubber, and breathable waders. Each type has a specific application and benefits as well as disadvantages. Neoprene is the very durable option and the best option when warmth in cold conditions and is required. Rubber waders are usually an inexpensive and durable alternative.
Neither compare to the versatility and value of breathable stockingfoot waders. Breathable waders allow for maximum comfort on warm days, and with a few thermal under layers, adequate comfort on cold days as well. Stocking foot waders are preferred over boot foot waders. Although these have traditionally been the most expensive waders, advances in technology and a competitive market have decreased pricing considerably. Again, find a comfortable pair that meets your budget.
There are several types of wading boots available today; picking a pair depends on the type of fishing you prefer and how big your budget is. Felt bottom boots are excellent for wading and provide adequate traction – they are also generally the cheapest. Studded boots are generally rubber-bottomed boots with metal studs. They offer the best traction, but the rubber-bottom will lead to a slight increase in price. Studs are if you aren’t accustomed to trekking across slick river bottoms and through fast moving water.
Rubber-bottom boots gained popularity as they do not carry the water born diseases that felt bottom boots do. This is an excellent option if you have enough money in your budget, as they tend to be a more expensive choice. If you want to maximize the use of your wading boots, pick up some neoprene socks and enjoy the experience of wet wading on warm days.
Above all else, remember not to get caught up in the fancy options – at least at first. Keep it simple and spend on affordable, quality gear. Like we said earlier, once you fall in love with the rivers and streams, you’ll be happy (and ready) to upgrade your kit.
