Fly fishing is a fun and rewarding hobby that requires knowledge of the proper equipment and technique. A fly fishing rod and reel is one of the most important pieces of gear for successful fly fishing.
Knowing how to use a fly fishing rod and reel correctly will help you catch fish more efficiently.
Choosing the Right Rod and Reel
The type of rod and reel you choose will depend on the type of water you are fishing in, as well as the size of the fish you are Targeting. Generally, longer rods are better suited for larger bodies of water, while shorter rods are better for smaller streams.
Also, heavier rods can cast larger flies farther, making them a better choice for larger fish species. Reels come in different sizes as well, with heavier reels being more suitable for larger bodies of water.
Casting
Fly fishing is all about casting your line into the right spot. To cast effectively with a fly rod and reel, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing your Target area.
Then hold your rod at a 45-degree angle to the water and point it at your Target spot while holding it firmly in your dominant hand. With your other hand, grab hold of the line just above the reel and pull it back until it’s tight against the cork handle on the top end of your rod. Then flip your wrist forward while releasing it slightly to launch the line out over the water.
Reeling In
Once you have casted out, wait until you feel a tug on your line before reeling in. Gently turn the handle on your reel clockwise to pull in some slack from the line before gently setting the hook by quickly jerking your arm up towards yourself. Next slowly crank in more slack until you have enough tension on your line so that when you gently pull back on your rod tip there is no extra slack left in between yourself and the fish.
Conclusion
Fly fishing requires practice but once mastered can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Choosing an appropriate fly fishing rod and reel depends upon where you are fishing as well as what type of fish you are Targeting; however, once selected knowing how to cast properly as well as how to properly set up and reel in will help ensure successful catches when out on any body of water.
