Fly fishing is an age-old sport that requires skill and technique. One of the most important aspects of fly fishing is understanding the water, which is why anglers use a variety of techniques to help them understand where fish are likely to be found. One of these techniques is called ‘riffling’ and it can be used to great effect when fly fishing.
What is a riffle in fly fishing? A riffle is a fast-flowing, shallow section of water which can be found at the beginning or end of a pool.
It’s usually just a few feet deep and contains many small stones and rocks which act as obstructions for fish. Fish will often take shelter in these areas, as they provide protection from predators and a food source from the bugs and larvae found amongst the rocks.
When casting your line, try to focus on the riffles as this is where you’ll find bigger fish. The key to successful riffling lies in making sure you drift your line across the surface of the water at just the right speed – too fast and your bait will be pushed away from where it needs to be; too slow and you won’t attract any attention from passing fish!
How To Riffle Fly Fishing:
- Cast your line upstream so that it drifts down towards you.
- Keep your rod tip low so that it follows along with the current.
- Maintain a slow but steady speed as you reel in.
Tips For Successful Riffling:
- Keep an eye out for eddies or pools where larger fish are likely to congregate.
- Use smaller flies on lighter tippets for more delicate presentations.
- Change up your casting angle often so that you don’t spook any wary fish.
