Fly fishing is a
recreational activity whereby an artificial fly is used as bait to catch fish.
The fly is fitted with a hook at the end of a line that is supported by a fly
rod for directing the line and a reel for retrieving the fly once a fish is
caught.
The types of flies
recommended for use in this sport should resemble colorful species that fish
can easily spot and spring up to take a bite. Natural invertebrates and other
smaller food organisms can also be used as bait and dangled above or on the surface
of the water to attract fish.
Fly fishing can be
carried out both in fresh water and salt water bodies. The choice usually
depends on your location. It is easier to catch fish through the technique in
lakes, ponds, and rivers when you reside inland. If you are closer to the sea,
salt water fly fishing would be most appropriate.
The most commercialized
bait for fly fishing is a Senko. This is a worm purposed to be fitted with a
fishing hook.
How To Rig a Senko
Push the hook through
the fat end of the worm right at its center then bring it back out. Make sure
that the worm is aligned to the hook. Tuck the sharp point of the hook back into the body of the Senko so that it is hidden from the fish. You are now
ready to fly fish with it.
Fresh Water Fly Fishing; Common Fish Types
You need to know your
fish first before you begin to fly fishing because you are likely to catch many
types of fish.
The most common great
tasting and nutritious species of fish you would find here are the trout,
salmon, and steelhead that are present in cold waters of rivers and rushing
streams. In the warm waters of lakes and ponds, expect to find the bass, pike,
panfish and the carp.
Great Fly Fishing Spots In North
America
In North America, where
I reside, there is a great variety of fly fishing spots along the many rivers,
streams and by the lakesides. Some states have fish size regulations. When you
catch fish, you are required to let it go if it is either too small or too big.
This serves to preserve
the population of fish in the region. I have been to about five states, and I
have fly fished in all of them.
The place I like most
was in Arizona at Lee’s Ferry; a section of the Colorado River. I caught half a
dozen medium sized trouts in just a day, and there was almost no competition as
not very many fishers know the spot.
Another great spot is on
the Penobscot River in Maine. There is a landlocked fishery at the west branch
where salmon is in plenty; you would not miss catching a few.
The fish fly heaven of
the United States is Montana. You would find fish flying enthusiasts lining the
rivers and you would not be judged if you catch and release, most people here
regard it as a fun sport. The popular rivers here for fly fishing include; the
Blackfoot River, Boulder River, Gallatin River, Madison River and the
Yellowstone River with a great open spot at the Yellowstone national park.
In Canada, Ontario
stands out as a great fly fishing location. You could catch smallmouth bass at
the Burnt River and Brown trout at the Grand River.
My Fly
Fishing Travel Destinations
Most of my travel
destinations have landed me in salt water fly fishing spots of open oceans,
bays, and estuaries. The common marine species of fish I have caught include
redfish, tarpon, snook, and bonefish. I would recommend the following fly
fishing travel destination from experience.
Abacos, Bahamas
This great spot lies at
the heart of the Caribbean. There are numerous fishing lodges and bonefish
flats in this region, plus the scene is beautiful. There are many areas of
skinny water without waves to distract your fishing escapades.
Alphonse Island, The Seychelles
It lies in the Indian
Ocean off East Africa. Here you would catch milkfish half the size of a fully
grown man. The luxurious Alphonse Island Resort is just a stone throw away to
cater for all your accommodation needs during your visit.
Iztapa, Guatemala
You could catch sailfish
here in the thousands. Also present are marlin, predator Dorados, and tuna. It
is among the best spots worldwide to catch, study and release fish. There are
many species of fish in great numbers.
Note that fly fishing in salty waters may require an
underwater gear to stay warm and safe. This is what you should wear under
water.
1. Swimming goggles to
protect your eyes from the stinging effect of the salty water.
2. Full body swimsuit to
protect you from stings by small sea creatures. They also dry faster preventing
you from catching a cold.
3. Flippers to easily
propel you in any direction in the almost stagnant waters.
About Author - Ted Thomas
Hi there, I'm Ted Thomas from GrayWolfLife, an ardent adventure writer. I write for readers with a genuine interest in enjoying the great outdoors. By sharing my experiences camping, hunting and fishing, I hope to inspire others to fully explore the depths of their passion.