Gamakatsu Fishing
Carolina Rig
The Carolina Rig has been around for many years but is still a big producer for anglers all over the world. It serves many purposes that we are going to cover in this article. We will cover the different areas for fishing this technique and also the many different lures that you can utilize. Here is a step by step format you can use to load your boat with good numbers of bass.
First, we will cover the components that are required to get this rig set up. The first component is the weight. You will have to determine a depth and structure type you are fishing. This will determine the size of your weight. You want to always try and get by with the smallest weight possible. I would recommend a 1/4 oz. to a 1/2 oz. size. This enables you to get better hook sets. If the water you are fishing is relatively deep you may need to go to a 3/8 oz. or 1 oz. weight. There are many weight types such as egg sinker, bullet weight, weights with rattles in them and so on. They come in different composites such as lead, brass and tungsten. I would recommend using a bullet weight for getting through the vegetation a lot better. I also recommend using a brass or tungsten weight since many states have outlawed the use of lead.
The next component that will go on the line after the weight are the beads. There are two main reasons for the beads, one is to protect the line tie so the weight does not damage your knot. The second reason is to add a clicking sound when moved along the bottom. This sound mimics craw-fish or shad feeding on the bottom. Most anglers use a glass bead for this application. Thus far we have a weight followed by two glass beads. Let's move on to the next component.
The next thing you will need is a swivel tied directly to the line below you weight and beads. The swivel of choice is normally a crane swivel. The reason for the crane swivel is to prevent line twist. I try and stick with smaller swivels usually in the 20 to 30lb range.
We are now getting down to the length of leader you will need to use for the type of cover or fish that you are targeting. From the swivel that is tied on the line you will attach a leader. I normally use fluorocarbon line for this application, this makes the bait seem more natural. Although you need to remember that fluorocarbon does sink a little faster than mono-filament. The line spooled to your reel will be heavier than that of your leader. Here is an example, 17lb spooled on your reel and 14lb leader. You may need to use heavier line when fishing abrasive cover. This technique is usually used around grass vegetation which lets you get away with lighter line.
You will want to pay attention to the length of the leader you use. A leader may be from 12 inches to up to four feet. I normally keep my lengths from 24? to 36? this will normally cover the water column well. The shorter the leader the faster the bait will fall to the bottom. The longer it is the more natural it will look on the fall. It will also flutter from side to side a little better with a longer leader.
The hook size is up to the size of bait you are using. I like Owner or Gamakatsu 2/0, 3/0 and 4/0 hooks depending on lure size. I will use a variation of lures with this technique. My favorite choice is a Zoom trick worm. This bait looks extremely natural and pulls through almost any type of cover. I also like using a Senko on this rig, it seems to have a motion that you cannot get from other baits. These are just recommendations on lure choice. I am sure you will have many that you can experiment with and try on your next trip to the lake.
Let's talk about rod and reel choice. I like using a 7? 6? rod that I can really feel subtle bites with. Pinnacle makes a great rod for this called a Matrix. It is made from Kevlar and is very sensitive and strong. I also prefer a Pinnacle Pro Select reel for my Carolina rig fishing. This reel is very sensitive and is made with an all metal frame which helps you feel those light bites. A gear ratio of 6.2:1 is a good choice also.
One of the many ways to use this bait is to utilize it as a search bait. This let's you feel the bottom with you weight and determine the type of structure there. This lets you narrow down bait choice and presentation. The thing that can be challenging at times is setting the hook on long casts with this technique. I prefer to use a sweep hook set by reeling up the slack and sweeping the rod to the side, not up. This usually drives the hook into the corner of the fishes mouth for a good solid hook set. The great thing about the Carolina rig is that it can be fished shallow or deep depending on where the fish are you are targeting.
If you have not tried this technique before or just gotten away from using it you may be missing out. The next trip you take to your favorite fishing hole have one of these rigs tied on. It may just save the day!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
I need help finding a manufacturer of Japanese fly fishing hooks.?
I need help finding a manufacturer of Japanese fly fishing hooks. I've tried all the websites like tradekey.com, alibaba.com and ec21.com - I've had numerous Chinese companies send me crap for samples. I need quality, and quality is Japanese or Korean fly fishing hooks. Does anyone know of any Japanese hook manufacturers. Gamakatsu, Dai Riki and Daiichi are typical Japanese hook names, but who manufacturers these hooks. I need that info - email, website, something.-
ANSWER:
Well I am not sure what your looking for but here is soem random fly hook produsers you can get their name off this following paragraph and do a search on thempresent there are many hooks from many foreign producers available, often in similar shapes on strong, middle strong or gentle wire. We can mentioned the Japanese hooks Kamasan B 100, made of gentle wire in bronze and gold collor and sizes 10, 12, 14, or strenghten version Kamasan B 110. Other gammarus hooks are produced by the Japanese company Snake in cooperation with Jiri Klima company. SNK 100 hooks are made of stronger wire, in bronze colour and in sizes 6 – 18. The more gently wire is marked SNK 200 and hooks are in sizes 8 – 14.
Other Japanese marks are e.g. Maruto hooks. In streghten version 7245 are available in our country in bronze colour and in sizes 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, or with middle strong wire under the number 7248 in sizes 10, 12, 14. Other Japanese hooks are Hayabusha and for gammarus hooks again are designed heavier version 387 and lighter hook with marking 384. Those hooks you can get in bronze, black nickel, gold and red colours, sizes 8 – 18.
The japanese hooks from Tiemco company (TMC) are very popular but the price is at least double in comparison with other makes. Famous is the shape TMC 2487 G in gold colour and sizes 10 – 20. Also its barbless version – TMC 2487 BL in bronze version and same sizes or heavier version – TMC 2457. To those hooks can be added also version with straight eyes, TMC 2488 in sizes 10 – 20 or strenghten type TMC/TRP-SP 2499 BL with unique sharp spear (Spearpoint) on the top of this bronze barbless hook.
Out of the other European producers of hooks, we can mention the Austrian company Rossler and classical hook Admiral 4007/2 in bronze version and in sizes 8 – 18 or golden hook 4007/3 G which is available in sizes 10, 12, 14, 16. Mustad company from Norway has a long tradition in hook production as well, though for our purpose their products are not the best possibility. C068 are heavy and extra short hooks in sizes 6 – 22 or shorter hook C495 made of standard wire, straight eyed and small barb (6 – 18). The French company VMC produces two types of suitable hooks with barbs. VMC 7075 is available in sizes 12 – 18, bronze, gold and red colour and VMC 9202 in sizes 8 – 14 and bronze or gold colour.
It is not possible to miss the fly fishing power, England, especially Partidge hooks.
-
-
QUESTION:
Hook won't set when Cat/Carp Fishing?
I lately have been fishing for catfish and carp at the pond near my house. I have been using hotdogs and Gamakatsu Circle Hooks and have been trying to conceal the hook. I have been using about 1.5 inch hot dog slices on a 1/0 gamakatsu hook. When the i see my rod tip bend, i go over to my rod holder pick up my rod and the fish seems to spit it, i sometimes can't even set it.-
ANSWER:
With circle hooks you don't set the hook, you have to reel in the slack,put a little bit of tension on it, and it will set itself. Catfish like to pick at bait, you want to be careful when you feel a catfish nibbling at your bait, be very slow and try not to move the line around too much.Also a size 1/0 is too big for carp, you want to go way smaller, use panfish sized hooks.
-
-
QUESTION:
What is the best color soft plastic lure/ worm to use with a red hook?
I've heard before that red hooks work pretty well when bass fishing...something about it makes the lure/ worm look like its bleeding. My question is what is the best color to use with this hook. Does it even matter. I use a Texas rig on a size 3 round bend Gamakatsu hook usually. I think I've seen tv shows where the pro uses a light colored lure like chartreuse. Any help will do...thanks.-
ANSWER:
This is a pretty tough one because some will swear by the red hook and others, like myself would say it's all gimmick. If you understand the color spectrum under the water, Red doesn't really dissapear, it turns gray-black after a few feet. The idea behind the red hook is that it's supposed to be used for top water applications or within the first 3 feet in the water column. This is true to some degree but water clarity does play a major role here. Crystal clear water and you can see the red in the hook until it hits bottom. Tainted water and it's just a few feet. This in combination of a lure will make it look like the bait is flaring it's gills...a sign of distress or feeding, not bleeding. This is supposed to provoke an insticnt in the fish to attack involuntarilly. Yeah...anyways, You can use these hooks with any lure color you can dream up. They are supposed to be better with top water and down to 3 feet or so but like I said, water clarity is the key.
-
-
QUESTION:
which gamakatsu circle hook is smaller for catfishing.?
ok so i am thinking about switching j hooks to circle hooks, but they dont sell them around my place so i think about buying them online, i thought about buying a size 6 and a size 3/0, which one is smaller and better for catfishing that are around 1-5 pounds. also the bait i use, (shrimp) are an inch and a half, so that should help. thx f0r all answers nd happy fishing!!-
ANSWER:
I think you could get away using a size 6 for smaller catfish, one good way to determine the size of a circle hook, is to look at the size of the gap (distance between the point and the shank) If the size of the gap is smaller than the corner of the catfish's mouth, the hook will not set. You want to be pretty close to that size when buying your hooks.Both should work fine.
-
-
QUESTION:
how to use soft plastic worms to catch bass?
so i got some gamakatsu 4 inch soft plastic worms today and the coloring was black with purple sparkles and stuff cause i heard those colors are the most versatile and the lakes i fish in are darker anyway. but i am new to soft plastics! im a spinner bait guy and have no experience with these baits and i really wanna catch some bass on it! so where do i work it, how do i work it, when do i work it?
and i rigged it weedless with no weights.-
ANSWER:
Hi Matt
great question, the thing about useing plastics, is that you realy need more than one type in your tackle box. There are many types and depending on location you may need to look at size and weight's that your useing before you find the right balance. If you realy feel the need for more info, I have some great reading on the matter, hope you find what your looking for and then go out and catch some big Bass.
Good Fisfing
Edward Camille
ps checkout my address site
-
Float Fly Fishing
The Beach Waterpark Slide, Plunge, Splash And Float In A Tropical Paradise
Mason is a city in Ohio State of the USA nestled amidst the Midwestern States. It is a destination packed with fun filled activities offered via its amusement and theme parks, golf courses and water parks. One of the best water park attractions in Mason is The Beach Waterpark, resting around 20 minutes drive from Cincinnati. It has won accolades and high preferential ratings for being a family oriented water park that offers innovative concepts time after time.
The Beach Waterpark sprawls across 35 acres of tract, landscaped with a touch of tropical glamour. Its lush green expanse is speckled beautifully with white ocean sand, palm trees, cascades and rockworks. It even produces surf from authentic crashing waves bringing you closer to the heart of a tropical coastal paradise.
Among its top highlights and the most favoured rides is the Kahuna Beach Wavepool. Being one of the largest tropical beaches in Ohio it delights the visitors with a true tropical sensation. Aztec Adventure is a unique water coaster that raises your pulse to the beat of the thrill. For those who prefer fast paced action, do not miss the Typhoon Twist as it lets you travel at breakneck speeds for 1000 feet along a super thrilling super slide.
The longest among the slides at The Beach Waterpark is the Volcanic Panic. It covers scenic vistas while taking you along a thrill ride packed with twists and turns and even makes you airborne for a while surrounded by its water currents. For those who prefer sliding through tubes there is Watsui and Riptide. Emerald Bay is an attraction that welcomes all ages and includes several tubular rides among other attractions.
Counting an array of thrill rides and slides besides several irresistible attractions, the Beach Waterpark offers something truly exciting for everyone. The park also practices stringent safety measures at all times ensuring ultimate enjoyment, leaving you no trace for worries.
As it takes only around 20 minutes to reach here from Cincinnati you can spend your night at a Cincinnati hotel and visit this park with your family the next morning. Millennium Hotel Cincinnati sits in the heart of the city and is surrounded by Cincinnatis best shopping and dining venues. Some of the famous attractions also rest within close proximity to this Cincinnati Ohio hotel. Offering an array of amenities to suit both business and leisure travellers this hotel ensures you a comfortable stay in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
How do I make flies float for fly fishing?
I was trying my flies today which were dry flies and then kept sinking what do i do-
ANSWER:
First make sure the flies in question are dry flies. You say they're dry flies and I'm inclined to believe you. Not trying to imply you're dumb or anything, but it also sounds like you're a beginner, so just make sure they really are dry flies.Keeping a dry fly on top of the water is partly the fly's job, but it's partly your job, too. If you drop a dry fly on flat, still water, it should float. But once you start factoring in things like moving water, line drag, and presentation, it's not difficult to sink a dry fly. I guess what I'm trying to tell you is yes, your dry flies should float, but they don't float like a cork or a bobber -- they'll sink if you're doing something wrong. So, let's go through it point by point.
Moving water -- not all dry flies are good for fast or "jumpy" water. By this I mean peaking or curling waves, plunging water, swirling eddies -- like rapids. Even high winds can contribute to sinking a fly. Only really heavy-hackled, high-riding flies will stay afloat through that kind of water, like Wulff, foam flies, or caddisfly patterns. Wispy, delicate patterns will swamp in jumpy water.
Drag -- when you fish a dry fly, usually you will just let the fly drift. That is, you will let it float on the current (or sit stationary on stillwater). If you do this, the fly should stay afloat. If you jerk the line or let the line drag on the fly, the line will pull it under the water. In order to keep the line from dragging on the fly, you have to mend the fly line -- you have to take up slack and adjust the line on the water such that the line doesn't pull on the fly, nor leave too much slack for a striking fish. (Again, I don't know if you know about his or not, so I'm saying something that may be really obvious to you.)
Presentation -- if you slap your flies down onto the water, they'll swamp. Your cast should put the fly down gently on the water -- small dry flies shouldn't disturb the water surface at all.
False casting -- false casting is useful for drying off a dry fly between presentations. Dry flies don't necessarily stay afloat because they are perfectly dry -- most stay afloat because their hackles "walk" on the surface tension of the water, like a waterskeeter's legs. But it's easier for the hackles to stay out of the water if the fly is as dry as can be. False casting dries off the fly. You can also reel in the fly and dry it on your sleeve or flypatch. If you want to get really serious, carry a desiccant -- a small can of sandlike material. Place the fly in the can, shake it a bit, and the fly is dry.
Fly dressing -- there are many products on the market that you can apply to your dry flies to make them slightly more hydrophobic. These are usually waxy or oily substances that you rub sparingly on to the fly. I use Gink, but only on flies that have trouble floating over repeated casts, like delicate and exceedingly feathery mayflies. Two tips: first, use dry fly dressing on perfectly dry flies -- once the fly is wet, it doesn't work. Second, use it sparingly -- too much can actually work against flotation.
-
-
QUESTION:
what do i put the pro float on for fly fishing?
i have some pro float, what do i put the pro float on for fly fishing?-
ANSWER:
I've never heard of this product, and a quick Google search didn't help much. I figure it's one of two things -- it's either a fly floatant or a strike indicator float putty. Doesn't the product have a label or instructions? How did you come to have it if you don't know what it's for?Anyhow...
If it's fly floatant, like a semi-gelly stuff in a tube or small bottle, sometimes called "fly dressing," then it's probably to put on dry flies. There is a similar product called "Gink." It makes your dry flies slightly more hydrophobic and makes them float on the water better and longer. It's not something you NEED, but it can be helpful. Don't use too much or it will actually make your flies sink. Just put a tiny dab on your finger and gently rub it into the fly hackles.
If it's a float putty, it's meant to be used as a strike indicator for use with nymphs and wet flies. You take a little schtickle about the size of a pea or so (depending on the size of your fly) and you glom it onto your tippet or leader. It will act as a "bobber" if that helps.
-
-
QUESTION:
Fly fishing, float fishing, whats the difference if any.?
I was looking at a fly fishing kit, and on the box it said the kit included, a float rod, and a float reel, so, i'm a bit baffled as i've never fished before, any help would be appreciated in plain English please-
ANSWER:
Sorry, but a fly fishing kit wouldn't include a float rod and reel. You can't fly fish with either of those things (although some people do use flies, including artificial flies as bait on float rods).A float rod will usually be at least 12 feet long and is designed to cast a float using the weight of the float. The reel will usually be a fixed spool reel and line is pulled off the reel by the float as the cast is made. Unless it is a really heavy duty salmon rod a fly rod will usually be less than 12 feet, of a lighter weight than the float rod and is designed to cast a fly using the weight of the fishing line it is attached to. The reel will be of the centre pin variety and is not actually used in the casting process.The casting techniques are completely different.
-
-
QUESTION:
fishing a fly on a spinning rod or with a float?
i am new to fly fishing. lovin it. last weekend i was talking to a guy at a campground by a river and dam and he said he caught some fish on 'attractors' with his spinning rod and float. How does that work exactly. what are attractors and how do you use them with floats? wont the float spook the fish?-
ANSWER:
You can fish flies with a spinning outfit, but it's not the preferred method if you ask me, and, as luck would have it, you are asking me.The way you fish flies with a fly fishing outfit is that you cast your nearly weightless fly with the weight of your fly line and the elastic action of the rod. It's a great system that has evolved over many centuries. With a spinning outfit, you don't have a weighted line, so the weight has to be at the end of the line, where the fly is. Obviously, if you're using a dry fly, you don't want something that will sink the fly, so you use a bobber for the weight. You cast the bobber and the fly goes along for the ride. Yes, the bobber can spook fish -- at least much more than a fly landing by itself. The bobber can also swamp the fly and cause drag on your fly. The fact that you CAN use a fly on a spinning outfit is proof of how versatile that gear is, but it's still non-optimal -- basically a workaround.
An attractor is just a fly that is not designed to look like a particular creature. They're usually tied with some dramatic shape or color to "attract" the eye of a feeding fish. Humpys, Wullfs, Wooly Buggers, and Stimulators are attractors. So, the guy you were talking to was probably using a big fat attractor because it maintained buoyancy even after the splashdown of the bobber and it imitated nothing more specific than "a bug." Incidentally, the other broad category of fly is "imitator" which is meant to accurately imitate a certain insect or other forage.
-
-
QUESTION:
Float and Fly fishing for trout.?
While soaking my dough bait at a local lake in my area, I say this guy fly fishing the same lake. The only thing though was, he was catching these 2 and 3 bounders and I wasn't. I don't own a fly fishing outfit but I do have light rod ( 7'6", 8'6"and 9'6") . I'm wondering if anyone has used a spinning rod setup this way and what flys work for you? I live in San Bernadino area and the trout are planted, when they get around to it this year I hope.-
ANSWER:
Its totally possible, to fish a fly with a small bobber, but you wont catch as many fish as actually fly fishing, as your fly isnt very well presented, you may want to consider learning to fly fish, with a real fly rod and reel.
-
Fly Fishing For Bass
Fly Fishing for Bass
When you mention fly fishing to people, many times they think you are fishing exclusively for trout. However, there are some amazing spots you can fly fish for trophy sized bass as well. Both largemouth and smallmouth bass abound in rivers and lakes, so why not try your hand fly fishing for bass?
Many experienced fly fishermen report that bass fly fishing can be extremely challenging as well as extremely satisfying. Bass have larger mouths than trout, so your choice of lures is much more diverse. They strike hard and fight strong, so when you are fly fishing for bass, expect to be exhilarated by the fight in these guys!
Experts suggest that you use a 6-7 weight rod, but if you are especially experienced, you can use a 4-5 weight rod. If you choose the smaller rod, you may have trouble casting the larger flies, so be aware of that. You can use a floating or a sinking line with a weight forward taper. You should have a 7 to 9 foot leader tapered down to a 10 pound test.
Most bass are opportunistic feeders and will bite at anything. In general, however, flies for bass fishing are usually larger and influence a bigger bite. Try big muddler minnows, clousy minnows, wooly buggers, poppers, leech patterns, and crayfish patterns. Size 8 or 10 would be a little on the small side while size 2 or 1/0 would be a little too large, so opt for something in between.
Largemouth bass live in shallow water habitats among reeds, water lilies, and other vegetation naturally found in the water. They are adapted to warm waters in the 80 degree range and are seldom found deeper than twenty feet down. They prefer clear waters with little or no current. They stay fairly active year-round, but tend to stay near the bottom in the winter months.
Great bass fly fishing can be found in various locations throughout the United States. In the northeastern United States, try the rivers and streams in the Adirondack Mountains such as the Mohawk or Black Rivers. There are also some prized bass in the Great Lakes region. Southern Ontario in Canada can also provide some great opportunities to catch trophy sized bass.
Bass fly fishing can be a great experience for both the beginning fly fisherman as well as those with a little more experience. Fly fishing for bass requires a little bit of finesse and some tenacity when they bite. Stay with the fish and pull a whopper out of the water you can be proud of!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
How to fish bass in fall... tips or hints? Fly fishing for bass?
I am going to fishing at some reservoirs in Idaho. Supposed to be good bass fishing, but does bass fishing slow down in fall? How should I fish for them. i want to outfish my buddy so I need an 'edge'. Also, can you fly fish for bass right now? How can i do it? this will be happening at the end of October, btw.-
ANSWER:
I'm not a bass fisherman, but I can tell you that most reservoirs in the western states are LOW right now, especially the reservoirs used for agricultural purposes. They are at their lowest point of the year and will be for another few weeks -- the water has been drawn off for the year's final agricultural uses, but there hasn't been a lot of incoming moisture. Less water means better fishing. If I were going bass fishing at the end of October, I'd fish the way you normally do -- fish structure, weedbeds, and bars or points. You'll likely run into brown trout or rainbow trout -- stockies or naturalized nonnatives.During the few spin fishing trips I made this summer, I concentrated on Texas-rigged worms (Google it or search here in Y!A) and had just enough success with it that I'll be doing it more in the future.
I see a lot of bass and sunfish coming to the surface in the fall -- I don't know if it's the season or the available forage, or what, but I've always assumed they are after minnows, so imitating baitfish is something I'd try, too.
Yes, by all means take your fly pole and fish for bass (and whatever else is in the lake), especially if you see surface action. There are many kinds of bass poppers for fly fishing, and you can use streamers to imitate minnows, crawdads, etc. If you've never used streamers, it's not unlike spin fishing. Clouser Minnows, Micky Finns, Bunny Tails, and other fly patterns can be really deadly for imitating minnows. You'll want a heavier rod -- at least 5 weight but maybe 6 to be safe. Lots of streamers have bead or bullet heads, but if yours don't, use a sinking leader or add some splitshot. Assuming you're fishing from a boat, cast into shore or at an angle to the shore and retrieve as you would a spinner bait. For bank fishing, wade out if you can and cast back to shore.
Good luck skunking your buddy!
-
-
QUESTION:
Can I use regular bass fishing line as a leader for fly fishing?
Can I use regular bass fishing line as a leader for fly fishing? Or do I need to buy special leader line and where could i buy it? Tanks-
ANSWER:
Yes, you CAN use ordinary monofilament or fluorocarbon line as fly fishing leader. Your leader is primarily meant for use as the invisible barrier between your fly line and your fly, so there is no functional difference in that respect between fly fishing leader and ordinary fishing line.However, there is another, very important difference between ordinary fishing line and fly fishing leader -- most fly fishing leader is tapered. Why does this matter? Because it helps to transfer the energy of the cast evenly from the fly line and through the leader. When you cast fly line, you create a pulse of energy that begins in your arm, snaps through your rod, and is transmitted into the fly line. As this pulse moves through the system, it sheds energy into the stiffness of the rod, into the air around the fly line, etc. By the time the energy gets to the end of the fly line, there's not a lot left to shoot the leader out so that it lays flat on the water. A tapered leader uses this remaining energy more efficiently, resulting in a straighter, tighter, more controlled cast. A non-tapered leader can work, but you'll notice a difference in performance, particularly on longer casts, and particularly if you are a beginner at casting.
You can purchase tapered fly fishing leader anywhere fly fishing supplies are sold, even Walmart. They come in different lengths and linestrength, but most commonly fall between 7.5 feet and 12 feet. A 7.5-foot or 9-foot leader is good for learning to cast. Use longer leaders as you get better at casting. There are expensive brands and there are cheap-o brands. Avoid the bottom of the barrel, cheap-o brands, but don't spend all your money on the top-of-the-line leaders, either. Shoot for the - per leader range. After you fish for a while you'll develop preferences based on performance, appearance, cost, etc.
If you don't want to buy tapered leader, you can use a straight length of regular fishing line, but a better option would be to create your own tapered leader by tying line of various thicknesses together. This is how they did it before true tapered leaders were developed. For example, a 9-foot leader may be constructed of three 3-foot sections of 3X, 4X, and 5X line. While the energy transfer will not be as smooth as a fully tapered leader, a knotted leader can work almost as well.
Don't forget that you use tippet on the end of your leader -- anywhere from 1 to 3 feet of expendable (usually lighter) line that use use to tie on flies.
-
-
QUESTION:
How do i pick out flies for trout and bass? fly fishing?
I fish in Northern new jersey. on rivers and lakes. What flies are good and how do i fish them. Thank you i am a beginner.-
ANSWER:
Well go on to google and ask what flies are hatching at your time of year. You probably won't be able to observe which flies are flying around so I would rely on information gathered by other fishermen, the internet, and tackle shops. Right now I would fish Mayflies and focus on white Mayflies. Terrestrials are also doing pretty well near cover. Yellow stone flies will also work in some areas.
-
-
QUESTION:
fly fishing?
My B-I-L invited me to go fly fishing with him. Now i don't claim to be the best outdoorsman, but i have been steelhead fishing, bass fishing, and crappie fishing, but this one has me puzzled...... how exactly does one "fish" for "flies"? and how much meat could you possibly get off of a fly anyway? is my brother in law delusional? can anyone reccomend a good shrink?-
ANSWER:
Dude - is this the same B-I-L that you've mentioned previously in a YA Q? The one you wanted to stomp? If so, I would advise against going out in a boat alone with him. You saw the Godfather, right? Remember Freido??
-
-
QUESTION:
Fly fishing smallmouth bass?
Can you fly fish for smallmouth bass on a 4 weight rod? I realize its not going to be the best for casting the large flies typically associated with bass fishing but will it be strong enough not break on medium sized bass? If the fish is too big I could just break off the tippet but I need to know if I will be doing that often.-
ANSWER:
How big are the fish you're going after? Fish 3 pounds and under will be no problem. Just remember it's fly gear -- don't horse the fish in. Use your drag and backing wisely. Even a 4 pound will eventually come to a 4 weight rod. If you know what you're doing, I'd say you're safe up to about 5 pounds. After that, be careful, let the fish run, and try not to let him jump. You've got a net, right? Are you fishing alone? A buddy can be awfully helpful when pushing the envelope on your equipment. If you're really worried about breaking the rod, then, as you say, use lighter tippet (I'd start with 4X).You can cast large streamers and other flies with a 4 weight, no problem. I cast big, weighted Woolly Buggers, Mickey Finns, and minnows on my 4 weight and I get plenty of yardage. You can also try big poppers on the surface -- these can be very big in footprint but small in weight. Frogs, tadpoles, wounded baitfish, and even mouse poppers weigh close to nothing. Use some 4X or heavier leader with fluoro tippet to avoid propellering and tangling and I'll bet you can give the bass some real headaches.
Unless you're saying that it's one 10-pounder after another where you're going, I think you'll be fine. If this is some crazy paradise where you're into big-ish fish nonstop, then yeah, you might be asking for trouble. But I'm assuming you'd have some other outfit to fish with in addition to the 4 weight -- a spinning rod or whatever? What is stopping you from trying? I say go for it. It'll probably be a lot of fun.
-
Fly Fishing Tubes
Fly Fishing for Crappie
If you've never fished for crappie with a fly rod, then you've really missed something. In my opinion, crappies, and other panfish, are the ideal fly rod quarry for the following reasons;
Unless you live in Alaska or Hawaii, chances are good that you live within one or two hours from a body of water than has crappie in it. Crappies are seasonal migratory predators. I won't go into their seasonal habits here 00004000 because that is a subject unto itself. Suffice to say it helps to know your quarry. It's pretty simple for most of the year. If you find 'em'..you'll catch 'em. The notable exception is summertime, when crappies get moody, sulk and suspend in open water. They frequently get lock-jaw at this time and will even refuse a live minnow dangled right under their nose!
You don't need a 00.00 fly rod to catch crappie (or in my experience, any other freshwater fish). A .99 Wal-Mart special will catch just as many crappies as an 0.00 outfit from G. Loomis. For crappie, you want to go light. A 6-1/2 to 8-1/2' 2 or 3 weight fly rod is perfect for crappie. If you want to chase crappie during the summer, you may want to move up to a 5 weight rod with a sinking line, to get your fly to the depths quicker. All you need is a single action reel, and it does not have to be an expensive one. Next, you will need a WF2F, or WF3F, or ST fly line, or maybe a DT5S for summer. Top it off with a 5' tapered leader (crappie are not line-shy, so a long leader is not necessary) and a 4X or 5X tippet, and your almost ready to go.
If you need to learn how to fly fish, I'd like to recommend the premier website for all things fly fishing: Fly Anglers Online. Here you will find all the information you need, and then some, for learning how to properly fly fish, find your quarry, and make and maintain your equipment. There are thousands of proven fly patterns there, with complete directions and step-by step instructions for tying them. There is also a forum where you can ask us any questions you want.
A few accessories are nice to have. If you fish from a boat, and plan to crappie fish all year, a good depth finder is a necessity. You'll want a landing net, because crappies have very tender mouths and can tear-off easily. For the same reason, a floating fish basket or live well is good to have, because crappie can tear off of a stringer easily. You'll need a lantern for night-fishing. If you don't have a boat, you might want to look at the various models of Belly Boats, or Float Tubes. They are great for crappie fishing in still waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
what is the difference from the opened front fly fishing tubed to the closed fly fishing tubes?
I wanna know witch is better because I'm going to get one soon and i don't want to spend more on the worse product.-
ANSWER:
tubes are totally up to preference the open front allows you to more easily see the water right in front of you but leaning backward is mandatory for both. the open front allows you (I think) to relax your neck and that keeps me in the water longer. I fish docks and jetty's and like looking straight down into the water I am facing. Especialy when I get a toothy halibut on and its chomping on my leadhead when I have to get the hook out if he bit the tube I would shoot around backwards all over the waters surface until either all the air leaked out or I sank. Other than those reasons, a tube, is a tube, is a tube.
-
-
QUESTION:
Where can I find a fiber Heddon Bamboo fly fishing tube?-
ANSWER:
Ebay is always a good place to start.
-
-
QUESTION:
the best float tube fly fishing on the south plains ...panhandle of texas..rivers ,lakes..etc.?
thank you in advance if you can help out w/ a loocation or two-
ANSWER:
The links Airflow provided offer some great fishing, however they are in Central TX or East and Southern regions, far from where you've mentioned.The single biggest problem for float tube fishing in the TX panhandle or South Plains is the ever present mesquite tree (or bush). They are in or near every waterway in those regions. If you want some great TX bass fishing, just head over to Lake Alan Henry. It has all you are looking for and is regarded as the next Lake Fork (some say it's better, I'm not so sure about that). The lack of good flowing rivers limits your choices considerably in the areas you mention. Might I suggest you invest in a Jon boat or canoe?
A few other places to consider:
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/fish/recreational/lakes/inhillco.phtml
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/fish/recreational/lakes/inpanhd.phtml
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/fish/recreational/rivers/
-
-
QUESTION:
fly fishing question sinking line or intermediate line from a float tube on a lake?
would you use an intermediate line or a fast sink line when fishing from a float tube on a lake or would you only use the sinking line if you were casting from the shore?-
ANSWER:
It depends are what & how you're fishing. Either would be the right line depending on the circumstances. Obviously, the sinking line would get you deep if that's where you want to present your fly.
-
-
QUESTION:
Pontoon or kayak for fly fishing. 10pts guaranteed?
I am looking to buy a pontoon or kayak for fly fishing. I am not certain that a kayak will have the comfort for a full day of fishing like a pontoon. I absolutely love float tubes as they are very relaxing and I can enjoy the fishing experience all day.Which type of fishing do you prefer, pontoon for kayak and why? Thanks in advance.
-
ANSWER:
Have to agree with ya' on them float tubes;). The FT's now days are somethin' else what with the innovation of flippers for maneuverability and enough pockets that one could store just bout' anything in em' (within' reason). Our FT's were nothin' but a' zippered canvas wrap with an automobile inner-tube inside and hinged plastic flaps buckled to ankles of our chest waders ta' get us around;)...
Sorry for gettin' a bit nostalgic with the FT but, it just brought back some real good times/memories. Now for your comparison question ~ my opinion, pontoon over the kyak ie., more stability, not so much just for lakes or ponds but, RIVERS as well. Plus what AIRFLOW pointed out ~, one can stand up on them. By the way have done both Kayak and pontoon (friend of mine had one). So, to reiterate ~ pontoon <);).......Note: Might point out, dependin' on the material that is used on the pontoon, them hooks can be somewhat trecherous especially whippin' a' flyrod rig...
-
Fly Fishing Rods Reels
How to Pick Good Waders
Fishing Waders are sized several different ways. Fishing Waders come in different styles thast are mesured by height. The most important component when choosing a size is your shoes size. If you wear a size 12, then select a size 12, when selecting a boot-foot wader. Bootfoot Wader eliminate having to have separate wading shoes or boots. It's important to realize fishing waders are designed oversized to fit over clothes. Measure your chest below the breast wrap a flexible tape around your bo 00004000 dy. Measure your waist. Measure your inseam. This is the height from the floor to your groin with your shoes off. Measure your outer seam. This is the height from the floor to your chest measured with shoes off. This is less important when selecting stocking foot waders that will require separate wading shoes and or Wading Boots, which you must select you shoe size. Remember that Wading Shoes or Boots are not suppose to fit as close as hiking boots, but should have stiff soles and ankle support. Make sure Stockingfoot Waders come with gravel guards. They seal the seal between the wader and the boot.
Fishing Waders are available in several different materials. Selecting the proper material depends on climate conditions. Neoprene Waders made of a synthetic rubber, are excellent fly fishing waders for cold weather. Designed to hug your body and keep you dry. They are available in different thickness for cold or warm weather. When water temperatures are too cold to wade into current with no protection to keep you warm and dry. Breathable waders are made to keep water out and allow an anglers body heat and sweat to escape. Hip Waders are only hip high, with built in boots, these are good for low rising streams and warmer weather.
Each type of fishing waders comes in a variety of sizes and material. Stocking foot waders are the lightest, easiest to store & easier to put on than boot foot waders. Bootfoot Waders go from the foot up to the chest. Neoprene waders can become very warm on hot days since none of the person heat can escape. Sweat can also be a problem. Therefore knowing how to pick good fishing waders depends on several different factors. As a result it's important to realize that size and material are two of the most important features for picking good waders. A little mesuring and research should help you to know
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
What are some of the best fly fishing rods/reel brands?
Im going to check out this guys collection of older fly fishing rods and reels and hes wanting around 50 dollars for some of the rods but i don't know which brands are of great quality.
by the way i found out some are orvis and scientific anglers-
ANSWER:
orvis, sage, winston, thomas & thomas are some of the best. redington makes some nice rods and some cheap rods. g loomis makes some high end rods (but to be honest I have never met a fly fisherman that would admit to owning one). there are actually a lot of really good mid level rods out there but you'll need to do some research to know what your looking for. some bamboo rods are worth money some aren't same with fiberglass rods (lamiglass rods can be colletable).scientific anglers makes great fly lines, decent leaders and tippet but rods really aren't really their thing (and they are cheap)
-
-
QUESTION:
Saltwater Fly fishing rods and reels.?
Can somebody tell me the best Saltwater fly fishing outfit. And the best line, backing, and tippets for saltwater. And once I get all this can I use the same stuff for freshwater fishing? Or should I change the line out? Or what? Thanks!!!!!!
I fish for Redfish, Pompano, Jack Crevel, Flounder, and lots more. I might want a 10 weight rod? Or will a 9 weight do it's job? I am trying to stay under 0. That's why I go for outfit's they cost less, and most the time they work just as well.
what type of tapered line should I get, If the outfit doesn't come with good enough line?-
ANSWER:
Firstly no i dont recommend that you use the same fly rod for fresh as for salt because of the fact for fresh water they are generally allot lighter also i would recommend a 9wt rod for saltwater for playing fish such as bone fish, saltwater reels have to be large arbor design and able to hold allot of fly line and a good 100yds of backing in fact the more the better for playing big fish, for rods for saltwater i use sage, when it comes to reels i any make will do and as for fly line you cant go far wrong with this
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?id=0043861319711a&navCount=2&podId=0043861&parentId=cat20505&masterpathid=&navAction=jump&cmCat=MainCatcat20431-cat20505&catalogCode=IH&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat20505&hasJS=trueAny tippet material will do so long as its over 10lb i like florocarbon for this especially sightfree g3. You dont need any fancy tapers for saltwater fly fishing a simple weight forward will do
-
-
QUESTION:
Where can I buy A good Fly Fishing Rod and Reels Outfits?
Looking for Fly Fishing Rod and Reels Outfits with good qualty . Help!!!-
ANSWER:
Get a glance at http://www.globalsportsinc.ca/fly-fishing-rods-reels-fly-fishing-rods-c-233_234_245.html and buy Fly Fishing Rod and Reels Outfits to an unforgettable fishing experience in low price, high quality excellent varieties of rods. Check it out , its really a good one.
-
-
QUESTION:
Why do a lot of anglers own so many fishing rods and reels?
The only factors I really consider when purchasing a fishing rod/reel is length, strength, and reel ratio. I usually get the longer fishing rods it adds more distance when I cast and as of the reel it depends on what kind of retrieve I would prefer. However, I think just any rod/reel will do A 5 foot rod can cast about 80% of a 6'6 rods distance. A 3.2 :1 versus a 5.2:1 reel would reel in about 60% as quickly as the 5.2:1. So why do experience anglers tend to have so many rods/reels in their arsenal it does the same job, except that some are a little better than others. I only 3 fishingrods and 1 fly fishing rod
About the changing lures I just use a swivel. It is very efficent
Hergie you are right, but whenever I look back I feel guilty that I do use them all.
Came you have a good point that is way I have several rods. 1 for trout , 1 for catfish, 1 general purpose, and 1 fly rod
Fun you have a good point also, but I hike a lot .Therefore I carry light mobile equipment. Usually my trips compose of 1 rod and 2 max
Martin, youre right but I prefer higher ratios. It allows me to quicky reel them in but it is harder to present some lures
PD if I was in a tourament of course. I would spend 500 bucks on fish equipment and bring home that 10 g purse
Charles Sloan haha. I pick up that disease and paid for it. 75% of my inventory went out to family because I couldnt use them all
Chimp , one of the best fishermen I knew was a very honest guy. Thanks
Gold if I can truly give out more best answers I would certainly make sure you were one. I forgot about the lure size and action. You are correct abou tthe swivel and I will pay more attention to that
Mike were in the same profession but have different ownership values. I just give the ones I dont use away unless there were alot of good memories. For example I lost one of my rods to a snapping turtle. I was pissed and came back the next day hopeing he might return it. Then I found a rod right next to a tree, it looks like someone left it there. I still have that rod today and slayed many catfish and trout with it
Brandon, after looking at your impressive list I dont feel too bad. I dont think a lot of people can out fish you
Pooh , it seems like you can fish like you have 10 arms
Bobber, it looks like you can put on 12 different baits.
Fish I am guessing you have many rods too. bringing different baits is always a plus
Gone , that is very true. Yes I do believe our strive to improve and shopping addictions created this
Fish K, you nail it right on the spot . Down to every last bit of detail. Dont worry they will come back. We just need to get more people to ask intermediate to advanced questions more. Seriously I was about to walk away from this section. I know it sounds weird but that fishing spirit always bought me back here as it did with the others. They are here. However, if it wasnt we probably wouldnt be here. It was you that was always here and for that I do thank you-
ANSWER:
Red-"....some are a little better than others...."How MUCH better can be the difference between catching fish and not catching fish.
Why does a Golfer need so many clubs when they are only slightly different than all the others?
Because that slight difference can make a WORLD of difference in when (and if) you get to the hole!
Bass and Walleye fishermen are probably more inclined to have an arsenal of different action rods, with various line sizes, and various gear ratio's.
Mainly because Bass & Walleye fisherman need to be prepared for anything.
Here are the reasons you need multiple rods and reels:
#1. Breakage- No matter how expensive or excellent a rod & reel is they WILL have issues at some point. Best to have a couple on your boat or with you (when you go shore-fishing), "just in case".
#2. Every type of fishing has a kinda "perfected outfit" that works best for a particular type of fishing. (And, you may come up with your OWN perfected outfit that works best for you!)
For example: Most pro Bass Fishermen use heavier 14-17LB Mono line for med-large Topwater lures, (or a leader of 20-25LB). The Reason? Heavy Mono line stays higher in the water column (because of it's property's & diameter) helping fishermen "walk the dog" and fish frogs easier.
Having a rod strictly set-up for Topwater, Spinnerbait, large Soft Plastic's, Etc helps you to show-case your lure in a better manner.
# 3. It's faster!- Having to re-tie every other minute can be a waste of time, (and when money and trophy's are on the line Time IS money). Also, sometimes, you can CATCH that short striking Bass/Walleye if your able to QUICKLY shoot another (different) lure in it's face!
# 4. It's fun to collect and use different well-built tackle- There is nothing more fun than trying out a new reel/rod and realizing it will help you catch bigger & better fish.
Remember- 60-75% of being a good fisherman is having decent tackle, outfit's, and marine gear. If you are using quality gear you've WON more than HALF the battle!
Ask yourself- Would a mechanic only have one crescent wrench? Or a football player only own 1 football? OR an artist have only 1 paint brush?
Hope this helps clarify?
update: Thumbs to CD , CS ! Totally agree! (LOL)
update: Thumbs to GF! (It's good to have you back in YAnswer's. Now, if we could just entice Exert/Ingun/Sharon/Etc....lol)
-
-
QUESTION:
Are theses rods and reels any good for fly fishing?
i have a intrepid 78 LA a shakespeare professional 2528 and 2 okuma 380s reels and my rods are a leeda rimfly concept and a leeda xl rimfly-
ANSWER:
Yes, there's no need to spend a fortune on fly fishing gear if you're just starting out or don't have that much to spend on fly gear, leeda rods are good quality for the price, obviously you aren't going to get the same performance as say a say Z-axsis, but this is all in good time,soon you will be bale to get something a little better but for now they should last long enough, i would use the okuma reel as they often have a better build quality than Shakespeare, which have been known to snap at the reel foot in the lower priced models, just ensure you use a high quality line as that's the most important part, thats what carries out the fly, good makes to try are RIO, Airflo and Cortland.
-
Most common searches:
Fishing Float Making
Dry Fly Fishing
The term dry fly fishing is used because the line and the flies float. However, there are lines and flies used for wet fly fishing too. The line is made from a polyamide monofilament substance.
Dry fly fishing will allow the angler to be able to see the fish as it strikes the fly. Ninety percent of the trout feed on the bottom of the water; however, the other ten percent makes up the difference in the anglers thrill and enjoyment of surface fishing.
Dry fly fishing is hard compared to other fly fishing as the fly you are using has to be identical to the fly the fish are taking off the surface of the water. If there are no fish feeding off the top of the water then the best option is not to fish dry flies. But when the fish are feeding off the top every fly fisherman will agree it's the best kind of fishing you could ever have.
The dry flies are natural imitators because they attract the fish by looking and acting the same way that the fish's natural prey would. The fly should land on the water as softly as possible and be allowed to drift downstream.
The angler should be aware and have knowledge enough to be able to spot potential places where trout may be laying in wait. In high current streams and rivers the line may over take the fly; if this happens the angler should then re-align the fly's drift. This is a technique called mending. Mending is very easy to learn how to do when the angler can see the fly.
After several casts and especially after a fish has been caught, the fly may not float as well as it did at first. So a technique which is called false casting may solve the issue. This means that when you're about to cast, don't leave the fly touch the water like normal but give the line a few extra flicks. Floatant also is a great tool which can be dabbed on the fly and make it float.
Dry fly fishing can be more productive in small streams if the angler stays low to the ground. This will help the angler hide their shadow so that the fish cannot see it. Anglers should always be ready in case of a strike, if the angler is not paying attention they could miss the chance to catch the big one.
You can also fish with dry flies on a lake or still water and this is easier for a beginner as unlike a river the water does not flow so presentation of the fly is much easier.
You should always carry multiple amounts of the same fly as they do easily get damaged and there is nothing worse than catching fish then the fly breaks off or gets unraveled and you can't catch more fish as you don't have a replacement fly.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
Coarse fishing float making?
What is the name of the reed used in making waggler stems?-
ANSWER:
?? Wagglers are made out of any number of materials & certainly more than one kind of reed!
Norfolk (or just plain "water") reed is generally a good choice, being about the right diam. (2-6mm), smooth, thin walled & quite rigid.
-
-
QUESTION:
When making quill fishing floats, what's the best way to strip the feather from the quill without damaging it?
I recently tried for the very first time to make quill floats from goose feathers and I damaged the first quill causing a hole in it when I tried to strip the feather away from the centre quill.-
ANSWER:
I made one using this guide, try to use a stanley knife blade, they razor sharp and worked a treat for me, start at the top and work against the feathers.Happy fishing
-
-
QUESTION:
When making quill fishing floats, is it really necessary to varnish the quill to make it waterproof?
I would have thought that given the feathers come from birds such as Geese who already spend a great deal of their time on the water that the quills would already be waterproof and perhaps just need the tip painting in high visibility paints such as yellow, orange and red etc? Your opinion on this matter would be greatly appreciated-
ANSWER:
i tend to varnish my quill floats ,try to get a very light varnish ,tint it green or whatever colour takes your fancy i do the same with peacock quills; they make great floats and are easy to make,mainly i use matt varnish but you make your own choice just experiment with different methods and see how you get on ,good luck with your float making.
-
-
QUESTION:
Where can I find float blanks for fishing to make my own bobbers?-
ANSWER:
I don't think I've ever seen "blanks" being sold, but it is very easy to turn your own custom balsa fishing floats. It's easy to get started and most of the materials can be found at your local hobby shop (Balsa, high-vis paint, plastic tubing for slip floats or silicon tubing for fixed floats), bambo skewers from a grocery store (for fixed float stems), and/or your local hardware store (epoxy or poly finish).I now turn my floats on a lathe and do a whole production set-up to do high volumes, but I started out just turning them on a corded drill placed in a woodworking vice. I used steel mandrels cut from steel rod (hardware store) chucked in the drill and supported on the open end with a piece of wood with a hole in it. No need to get fancy or expensive.
I've included a link below to a good beginners article on making your own floats. Hope it helps.
If you run into any problems along the way just ask me. I'm sure I've encountered most of them by now!
-
-
QUESTION:
How do I make flies float for fly fishing?
I was trying my flies today which were dry flies and then kept sinking what do i do-
ANSWER:
First make sure the flies in question are dry flies. You say they're dry flies and I'm inclined to believe you. Not trying to imply you're dumb or anything, but it also sounds like you're a beginner, so just make sure they really are dry flies.Keeping a dry fly on top of the water is partly the fly's job, but it's partly your job, too. If you drop a dry fly on flat, still water, it should float. But once you start factoring in things like moving water, line drag, and presentation, it's not difficult to sink a dry fly. I guess what I'm trying to tell you is yes, your dry flies should float, but they don't float like a cork or a bobber -- they'll sink if you're doing something wrong. So, let's go through it point by point.
Moving water -- not all dry flies are good for fast or "jumpy" water. By this I mean peaking or curling waves, plunging water, swirling eddies -- like rapids. Even high winds can contribute to sinking a fly. Only really heavy-hackled, high-riding flies will stay afloat through that kind of water, like Wulff, foam flies, or caddisfly patterns. Wispy, delicate patterns will swamp in jumpy water.
Drag -- when you fish a dry fly, usually you will just let the fly drift. That is, you will let it float on the current (or sit stationary on stillwater). If you do this, the fly should stay afloat. If you jerk the line or let the line drag on the fly, the line will pull it under the water. In order to keep the line from dragging on the fly, you have to mend the fly line -- you have to take up slack and adjust the line on the water such that the line doesn't pull on the fly, nor leave too much slack for a striking fish. (Again, I don't know if you know about his or not, so I'm saying something that may be really obvious to you.)
Presentation -- if you slap your flies down onto the water, they'll swamp. Your cast should put the fly down gently on the water -- small dry flies shouldn't disturb the water surface at all.
False casting -- false casting is useful for drying off a dry fly between presentations. Dry flies don't necessarily stay afloat because they are perfectly dry -- most stay afloat because their hackles "walk" on the surface tension of the water, like a waterskeeter's legs. But it's easier for the hackles to stay out of the water if the fly is as dry as can be. False casting dries off the fly. You can also reel in the fly and dry it on your sleeve or flypatch. If you want to get really serious, carry a desiccant -- a small can of sandlike material. Place the fly in the can, shake it a bit, and the fly is dry.
Fly dressing -- there are many products on the market that you can apply to your dry flies to make them slightly more hydrophobic. These are usually waxy or oily substances that you rub sparingly on to the fly. I use Gink, but only on flies that have trouble floating over repeated casts, like delicate and exceedingly feathery mayflies. Two tips: first, use dry fly dressing on perfectly dry flies -- once the fly is wet, it doesn't work. Second, use it sparingly -- too much can actually work against flotation.
-
Most common searches:
Salmon Fishing Flies
Late Spring Trout and Salmon Fishing in Lake Michigan
Author: John Neilio
http://profishingblog.com/index.php
As the Lake Michigan water temperature warms in late spring, the combination of Salmon, on their annual migration northward and the more actively feeding Rainbows and Lakers, create fantastic fishing.
This article covers the areas of Kewaunee, Algoma and Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The fishing here typically starts in mid to late May and runs through the summer and fall. At the onset, fish can be found in around 100 feet of water, which is only a few miles off shore at Kewaunee and Algoma and on the Bank Reef at Sturgeon Bay.
All methods of deep water trolling can be employed such as downriggers and Dipsey Divers. Dipseys can be used off of wire lines or PowerPro rods. Another method, which is relatively new, is the use of lead core and copper lines to get your lures down. Lead core is color coded 10 yards per color and each color drops your lure about 5 feet down. Three colors will get you about 15 feet deep, five colors about 25 feet down and so on. Copper is typically run in 100, 200 or 300 feet per reel. Both these lines are generally backed with PowerPro and tipped with floral carbon leaders. One hundred feet of copper drops your lure about 20 feet, 200 about 40 feet and 300 feet of copper will get you down about 60 feet. If you are new to using copper lines, get advice from a dealer or someone who has used it. It is not easy to deal with.
If you choose to use surface lines with snap weights, lead core or copper you will have to use planer boards or skies to separate your lines and get them away from the boat. Run the highest lines furthest away from the boat, and set the deeper lines progressively closer to the boat. This helps a great deal with preventing fish tangling your lines.
There is an endless supply of lures to use for this type of fishing. Typically Pro King, Diamond King, or Moonshine spoons in bright colors with silver backs or diamond reflective patterns are good. E-chip Dodger or Spin Doctor and flies are also used with many different manufactures in many styles and colors. Bright colors with flashy tape are good choices. Faster trolling speeds are typically used in this type of fishing with 2 to 3 mph being most common.
For information on fishing in a particular location, check out the area sport shops, talk to local fishermen, listen to the marine radio or search the internet for local fishing reports. You can find a lot of info on the internet.
If you don't have a bigger boat and would like to participate in this fishery there are plenty of charters available in most towns along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Good luck and good fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
which is better for salmon fishing? fly rod or spinning rod?
I am trying to figure out which method for fishing is the better for catching a salmon.-
ANSWER:
The answer will depend on your skill with either system. Fly fishing is an elite sport while spinning is a common one. You need to learn how local fisherman are catching fish. Each area is different.
-
-
QUESTION:
What is a good fly rod for salmon fishing?-
ANSWER:
Depending what kind of salmon, anything from a 6 to 10 weight. This site has a good fly rod selector at the bottom of the page: http://www.orvis.com/store/shop.aspx?dir_id=758&shop_id=1446&cm_ven=performics&cm_cat=Cross%20Current%20Guide%20Service&cm_pla=NO&cm_ite=875&adv=875&bhcp=1
-
-
QUESTION:
whats better in runescape fly fishing trout and salmon or heavey rod fishing them?
whats better in runescape?-
ANSWER:
fly fishing. it's much more tranquil
-
-
QUESTION:
fly fishing rod help? salmon and trout.?!?
I went on the Bass pro website. I live in canada so cabellas isn't an option. So I found this combo and was wondering if it's a good rod to help me start fly fishing for steelhead, brown trout, brook trout and salmon. Im fishing the credit river which feeds into lake ontario. Can this rod handle the long fights of salmon and trout.
Also does anyone know any honeyholes on the credit?
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_90948____SearchResults-
ANSWER:
The reality here is that to best fly fish for salmon AND trout, you'll need two different fly fishing rods. The heavier rod won't be sensative enough for trout and the lighter rod you could expect to break fighting larger salmon in faster water.For trout:
Consider a 9' 5wt or 6wt. The 6wt will give you some versatility if you want to fight heavier fish also (ie a largemouth bass) in the future. Although the 9' 5wt you purchased is considered the go-to, most common fly rod configuration sold for trout on the market today.For salmon:
You'll need at least an 8wt. The most common rod choice for salmon is probably an 9' 9wt. I personally fish with a 10wt in case I get into fighting something really big or in fast moving water. I also like to hook and bring my fish in relatively quickly so I can catch another and not fight them all day. I am older and an 8wt would tire me out quickly. I've fished a March Brown 10wt travel rod in Alaska, Iceland and Ireland for salmon now for many years and I could not be more happy with that particular rod and that rod company. (www.marchbrown.com)Many companies out there will make rods that fit the description. A few questions already posted on Yahoo Answers detail the considerations for purchase and the best sites for fly rod reviews (fly-rods.net). My personal preference is to use travel fly rods because of their general ease in transport. Technology today has made them cast just as good as any other and I can take a few rods to the river at the same time. For example, when I fish in Alaska I'll bring my 10wt salmon rod and my 6wt trout rod for the same river. I usually bring another 9wt rod as a backup or if I'm fishing exclusively for reds. That's 3 rods and all March brown rods will fit inside my backpack for the hike in at the same time.
That is a long answer and I hope you find some of the information helpful.
-
-
QUESTION:
Fall salmon fishing help?
Hi, up until now ive been a trout fisherman mostly, fishing small streams with small trout. But this fall i really want to try out salmon fishing in the Lake Ontario tribs. But i really dont know where to start gear wise. I know where to go but dont know what ill need.I need tips from what kind of rod (not fly fishing) to the line, rigs, lures/baits.. everything basically.
Oh and the spawn runs include King Salmon mostly, but also Brown Trout and late steelhead runs.
-
ANSWER:
Not sure about how great the access is down that way;I used to fish more up along the Sauble (at the falls) just a ways from Owen Sound.Generally we used long (like 10 or 11 foot) medium/light action spinning rods with 4 pound test (monofilament)line.I used to buy pre-tied roe bags at a tackle shop up there-I'm sure there must be one or two in the GTA at least that sell them.Occasionally they would take a small spinner-like a Blue Fox Super Vibrax;(steelhead especially liked those) .Otherwise I just used a roe bag tied on a real small hook (size 8 roe hook) and a small split shot about 2 feet from it-casted upcurrent slightly and allowed to roll along the bottom .I never used slip bobbers or strike indicators etc. as that never suited "my style",though I saw a lot of other people use them.
-
Discount Fly Fishing Rods
Discount Kayaks - Buying Cheap Kayaks and Kayak Paddles
If you have plans on buying a kayak it would be best if you do some comparison first. There are things you need to considering before buying the kayak. The length, load capacity, weight, type of water, price and width are among the things that you consider in buying the kayak. Check first whether you need a tandem or solo inflatable kayak. The kind of water you will be dealing with is also considered. Upon deciding on these factors you can now start comparing the kayaks important specs and features.
The width and length is the first thing that you need to consider. Kayak will be tippier if you choose the skinnier and longer kayak. This type of kayak is also fast and will take paddling with less effort in order to have some speed. It will also be more stable if you choose a wider kayak. If you want to be in between, then you can choose the Recreational flatwater kayaks. This type of kayak will give you comfort and provides stability to get some decent speed.
If you have your kayak ready it is now time to choose the proper kayak paddle for your. To others it is not hard to find the right kayak paddle but for others it will also need some shopping and some time in order to pick the right paddle. There are 3 things that you need to consider to determine which the right paddle is for you:
- If you decide to do kayaking in white water then you need something that can withstand the condition of the water. It would be a different story if you are in touring kayak.
- Your body stength and height. If you are five feet and half tall then you may need a shorter paddle. You need a longer paddle if you are 6 feet tall.
- The height and width of the kayak. A longer paddle is needed if you are using tall or wide kayak to reach the water effectively.
After considering the three things it is also best to check the 3 major differences in paddle characteristics:
Paddle is different in shape and blade length, shape and shaft length, and the materials needed in manufacturing the paddle. Wide blade with large surface face can give better acceleration, but will also produce more resistance in the water. Usually it would take a lot of effort to use big bladed paddle than smaller one. If you are into touring it is an essential factor since you will need more endurance than speed. The paddler will be less tired is he will use blade that is long and narrow to strokes more and move through the same quality of water.
==>>Browse Latest New, Used Kayaksfor Sale
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
recomend me a good beginner rod/reel for ocean/bay fishing from this site!?
I'm in the navy and get a decent discount at thsi site so i am looking at gettign a salt water rod and reel for my beach house, it willb e used by all of us beginners, i used to fly fish but not these days, so recomend a good beginner rod and reel for fishing mainly off a beach so surf fishing.eangler.com
-
ANSWER:
a seven foot Shakespeare rod and reel combo can be picked up at wal-mart for bucks or so,,
you want a seven foot rod for greater casting distance,, med- size reel.. rig with #6 or #8 test line
will be good for fresh or salt water from bank or beach,,
you will want a spinning reel not a bait caster if you are just starting out,
-
-
QUESTION:
Please help a novice angler!?
Hello from Somerset (UK)!I am a complete newbie when it comes to fishing, and I do not have any friends who fish so everything I learn is from magazines and books.
I have a bare minimum of equipment which I think may be sub-standard and quite old; it has been scrounged from car boot sales and salvaged from the bargain bins of discount camping shops!
Basically I want to try my hand at fishing in a stocked lake near me. I have a free day tomorrow and so I thought I might head over there with a packed lunch and enjoy the 'summer' by the lakeside. Any fish I catch would be an unexpected bonus. I'd really like to know if the kit I have is adequate and meets the requirements of the fishery. Here's a link to their website:
http://www.viaductfishery.com/
I have a telescopic rod by 'Shakespeare' (about 8-9 ft) and a reel that looks very dated; it's small and is basically a narrow spool with a handle. I have several lures with three-pronged hooks, and a pre-rigged float with a small hook attached. For bait I have a can of sweetcorn.
Would this be sufficient for fishing such a lake? Obviously I am not after monster carp, just smaller species that can indicate what it is actually like to fish. I'm just worried that A) my kit won't meet the fishery rules and B) everyone else there will think I'm a bit of a moron for having such basic, old kit. Here is a picture of the reel I have:
http://a1bassfishinginfo.com/2009/05/fly-fishing-reels-know-your-facts/
Obviously I am a complete novice but I really just want to get going, and I can barely afford the £8 fee to get in the fishery so I'm really doing this on a super-tight budget!
Do fishery staff tend to be wandering around to check kit and make sure nobody's misbehaving, or are you just left quietly to your own devices in stocked lakes? I just want some quiet time without embarrassment.
Thanks!
-
ANSWER:
Don't be embarassed at being a novice. Everyone has to start somewhere and my bet is that, if you ask for advice, the staff there will fall over themselves to give it. Remember it's in their interests to ensure that you have a good and successful day as much as it is in yours. That way you'll go back. You'll also find that the other anglers are likely to be keen to help out. Angling is a very friendly sport.So far as your gear is concerned, your rod and reel are not ideal, but they'll do. You will find most people using longer rods - either "feeder" or "float" rods, and fixed spool reels. Most people start off float fishing but then change to feeders later. It's not that they're any harder to use, it's just that most people get increasingly addicted to carp fishing once they've caught a few and feeder fishing works well with carp.
Forget the lures and treble hooks completely. I love lure fishing, but it's an absolute no-no on commercial sites.
Your bait is fine. Sweetcorn works about as well anything on commercial fisheries and half the people there will be using it.
I realise that you're on a tight budget, but there are a couple of things I would recommend you spend a little money on at the site's shop. First of all, there are some big carp in there, so I recommend 8lb main line. 100 yards is all you'll need. Buy yourself a pre-weighted carp waggler float (the shop will show you how to mount it) some split shot and a pack of barbless pre-tied hooks. Size 12 or 14 would be about right. The total bill won't be much more than £10. You'll then have a setup that can cope with most of what comes your way. If you do hook into a big carp hang on though. They don't half pull back!
The site will have a few rules. They'll be clearly displayed. Just spend a moment or two looking at them and make sure you follow them. After that I doubt that anyone will check up on you.
One last point though, make sure you have an Environment Agency rod licence. If you are on a tight budget you can buy a day licence for £3.50 on line from their website. Don't spoil your day by getting nicked and taken to court! Here's the link
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/recreation/fishing/31497.aspx
I hope you have a great day. Wish I was there with you!
-
Fishing Rods Tackle
Different Types of Fishing Rods
Fishing rods are one of the most important accessories without which there's no point in going for fishing. Different types of fishing rods are available for different types of fishing. Check out the main 9 types of fishing rods that are used often:
1.Spinning Rods: These are the most common types of fishing rods that are easily available in the market. They are used for both heavyweight and lightweight fishing and are commonly used for catching walleye, bass and trout. Spinning rods are strong and durable enough to withstand the pressure or stress exerted by the fish on the rod. Designed as an eggbeater reel they are useful for retrieving and casting baits and lures. The usual length of a spin rod is between 1.6m to 2.5m.
2.Jigging Rods: These types of rods are generally seen on commercial boats as they can easily handle large baits and heavy lures. They are made of very strong and solid material as they need to tackle the changing currents of the ocean.
3.Surf Rods: Considered to be the longest among fishing rods, they are heavier than others. Surf rods are useful for catching big fishes. Their length usually vary between 3m to 4.2m.
4.Carbon Fiber Rods: These are hi-tech rods that are mainly used for coarse fishing. A variety of carbon fibers are used to manufacture them. Positioning of the bait in this type of fishing rod helps to catch big fishes.
5.Fly Rods: Fly fishing rods are generally used for catching fresh water fishes like halibut, salmon and trout. They are mostly built of carbon graphite. The three different types of fly fishing rods include:
1.Bamboo Fly Fishing Rod: This common fishing rod is preferred by most of the people who go fishing, as it is quite durable and suitable for most kinds of fishing situations. These type of fishing rods are very flexible and lightweight.
2.Graphite Fly Fishing Rods: These type of fly fishing rods are little stiff yet strong and effective. Many fishermen prefer using this due to their strength and performance. These fishing rods are available in various designs and patterns.
3.Fiberglass Fly Fishing Rod: Most of the fishing rods these days are being made of fiberglass. It is little heavier than the other two, which makes it unpopular among some fishermen.
6.Tenkara Rods: They are a combination of other rods, having all the facilities of carbon rods, fly rods, and telescopic rods. The length of these rods range from 11 to 13 feet. They are also very light, portable and easily available at almost every fishing tackle shop.
7.Game Fishing Rods: Game fishing rods are mainly used in deeper saltwater for game fishing. They are designed in such a way that they can catch large fishes like pelagic fish. They are quite thick and don't bend easily. In place of regular line guides, they have roller guides.
8.Boat Rods: They are considered to be a subclass of spin rods. Boat rods are heavier and shorter than other rods and are mainly used in saltwater fishing.
9.Trout Fishing Rods: The length of a trout fishing rod ranges from 7 to 10 feet. These rods are lighter than bass fishing rods. Most of them are made of granite and sometimes fiberglass.
Other types of fishing rods include crappie fishing rods, bass fishing rods, ice fishing rods, sea fishing rods, and ultra light fishing rods.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
were can i get free fishing tackle or rods?
i need some free tackle for my best friend to get him fishing thanks for reading it would be good if had answers-
ANSWER:
We have a 'freegle' website here where you give things away to people in your area. Maybe you can see if you have something similar in the US? Freegle recycles useful things. If not then put an advert in the local shops asking for free tackle etc in exchange for something you don't want of similar value. If you were here I'd give you a rod, net and tackle box that's gathering dust in our garage!! Good luck!
-
-
QUESTION:
what is the best fishing rod for like small fish and what is the best kind of tackle or bait?
i go fishing in my cousins lake and catch small trout and things what is the best rod and tackle or bait to use to catch them-
ANSWER:
a small 4 foot 6 inch to a 5 foot lite rod, like a berkley lightening rod and a small spinning reel, 2-6 pound test line, an live worms, or the spinners or power bait(orange or green paste)...they are some of the best baits and there are many more!
-
-
QUESTION:
how far up a tidal river can i fish with shore rods and tackle for sea fish?
i've been fishing a lake that has a tidal river (the stour,kent) one mile from where the river meets the sea. can i pop over and fish for the bass i've heard swim up?-
ANSWER:
As soon as you fish the lake you will come under the coarse fishing rules and you will need a rod licence for a start. The lake may be pivately owned and there could be other fees to pay. Why not fish the estuary of the river where the Bass are coming in, Bass always go to freshwater outlets looking for food that may wash down.... Good luck.
-
-
QUESTION:
What are the necessities for making a used fishing tackle retailer?
I'm going to try to start one of those "mom & pop" shops up for used fishing reels, rods, lures, sinkers, bobbers, etc. with some of my friends & family and was wondering what are all the necessities? I have a building for it. And am working on shelves, desks and such.-
ANSWER:
Your greatest challenge will be coming up with enough USED inventory to stock a shop sufficiently to the degree required from which customers will spend enough money to keep you in business. When you take into consideration how much money it will require just to keep the lights on and the heater fueled, to which you will have to add the expenses of insurance, business license, wages, etc. it starts out looking like their won't be enough inventory available to keep your customers coming back. Look at the general inventory in a regular sporting goods store....even a little hometown "mom & pop" shop and then try to imagine where you will come up with that much "used" equipment. You will have to buy a lot of it, and there goes UP the overhead and DOWN the profit margin. The idea sounds good. But in all practicality? It probably won't work. Where IS the most likely source for your very unique product line? You need to know the answer to that most important question before you start asking and answering all the others. Do a LOT of homework before you get too much time, effort, and money invested that may not find its way back again when the time comes to lock up the door for the last time. I do wish you a lot of luck though.
-
-
QUESTION:
Fly Fishing . . . What Type Of Rod/Tackle Should I Be Looking For As A Beginner?
I fish quite often, but I have never gone fly fishing before. When I went for a scenic drive one weekend I noticed TONS of people fly fishing along the side of the river. Looked as though they were salmon fishing. It looked like a lot of fun. So I wanted to give it a go. Since I have never gone fly fishing before I was wondering what type of rod I should be looking for and what type of tackle would be involved.Secondly . .are there any fly fishing rods for kids? My son LOVES to fish.
I live in British Columbia . . so I'm assuming the fish I'd be after would be Salmon-
ANSWER:
Go to the local shop that specializes in fly fishing equipment in your area. The salmon/ steelhead gear is heavier duty than a trout rod. All are fun and fairly easy to learn for the basics, but may take years to become a master at the sport. For a child's size rod, I suggest a fly rod for trout about 7 foot in a 6-7 weight. For you a length of 7-8 feet and a 7-9 weight. The shop personnel can explain all of these terms. Buy a couple of fly fishing magazines and do some reading. The sport is great.
-
Shop Fly Fishing
White River Fly Shopa, Fly Rods
A 179.99 US dollar Brass Pro Shops product may just be the answer to your entire fly fishing concerns. Brass Pro Shops is the perfect place to find any tool for an outdoor experience. They have a wide selection of products that cater to almost any outdoor activity needs. Also, Brass Pro Shops have the consumer’s satisfaction in mind. That is why they always deliver the best they can.
The designers of the White River Fly Shop™ rods have addressed many fly fishermen’s needs. May it be all about a certain feel or definite action, the White River Fly Shop™ fly rod is sure to be able to meet the demands. It could also be concerning a particular reaction to certain fly fishing techniques, still the White River Fly Shop™ fly rod can meet up to it.
The White River Fly Shop™ rod is making sure to bring out the best performance it could offer. This equipment is conceived with big Western rivers in mind. Fly fishing entails a lot of hard work. It is more often than not that you get to throw rigorous mends that have deep rigs for nymphing. Also you get to go around from bank to bank in a drift boat to thump them with the use of a sinking line. Every few seconds or so, one also gets to punch a dry fly to a new target. You may get a breather if the wind is lying low, but that is a more than less likely event, so it is best not to count on it.
Whatever angle you look at, fly fishing is strenuous but the White River Fly Shop™ fly rod hopes to remedy that. It is made of the latest technologies and top performing body parts. A White River Fly Shop™ fly rod is three-piece.
The blank is made up of graphite that has eighty five million tensile modulus. It is highly better than the majority in the market of fly rods which are only made of about forty to forty five tensile modulus that makes for a denser material that is more temperamental. But because of Brass Pro Shops’ breakthrough technologies, a much better White River Fly Shop™ fly rod is born. A new construction process is employed by Brass Pro to increase the material’s hope strength. The White River Fly Shop™ rod also has a distinctive look because of all these construction techniques.
The reel seat is machines and is anodized aluminium. Perfect for all the work and wear a fly fishing rod could be subjected to. There is really nothing better than the White River Fly Shop™ fly rod.
So with knowing all these, it is really a bad decision not to replace that crappy fishing rod you have with you now with the much better White River Fly Shop™ fly rods. Optimum performance and better handling is what you will be missing out if you do not get White River Fly Shop™ Two-Seventy Fly Rods.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
QUESTION:
Have you gone to Sage Fly Fishing Shop in Bainbridge Island?
I'm going there tomorrow and was planning on checking it out. Was to curious to find out if they had a discounted shop on site at their factory or nearby?? I know they dont usually sell at discount but thought perhaps they had something like this at their home base. Thanks!-
ANSWER:
take me with youuuuuuuuuuu!
-
-
QUESTION:
can you selll flies to fly fishing shops?
If you can do you have to have a license? And how old you have to be? And how munch will you get for the flies?-
ANSWER:
Yes, you can sell flies to fly fishing shops.Yes, you need a license -- a business license. You'll have to keep track of business fees and taxes. No, you do not need a license to actually tie the flies commercially, but various credentials and certifications will help. Like classes or learning from particular, well-known individuals.
There are no age requirements, other than the age restrictions on doing business. I'm sure there is a minimum age to get a business license.
I don't know how much a fly shop will pay you for flies, but I know that a fly shop near me marks up their flies by more than 100 percent. Considering that they sell their flies for around 90 cents a pop, I guess that means they're paying their tier 30 or 40 cents apeice..?
Things is, you've got to tie scores and scores of dozens of patterns, and they have to be very consistently tied. If you look at the flies at a good fly shop, all the flies look almost exactly alike, they're attractive, and they're sturdy. I know three or four guys who tie commercially or have in the past (including the guy who taught me), and they're all older dudes who have LOTs of time behind a vise.
You'll need wholesale connections to buy materials -- you'll need to make each fly cost you as little as possible and make your margins as wide as possible. Finding materials of high quality at good prices and quantities will be a big challenge. If you buy your materials from ordinary places (like fly shops), you won't make any money.
You also have to be reliable and flexible. You have to be ready to go all winter with no orders and then fill big orders at other times -- if you let your shop run out of BWOs in June too many times, they'll find someone else. On the other hand, you can't have a ton of materials and flies on your hands -- that stuff costs you money and you've got to be sending them out all the time. Finding several shops to tie for would be best, but of course that means tying more flies...
Sheesh, I don't even know much about this and it's already too complicated for me to even consider -- and I bet I'm simplifying things.
-
-
QUESTION:
Canadian fly fishing shops online?
Hey i want to find a online fishing shop with a good selection of fly fishing rods, reels and combos, ive tried cabelas (wont ship my rod) and wholesale sports (not a great selection) and im only left with bass pro shops, but if you have any other names that you have used but they need to ship to canada for cheap or preferably based in canada. ThanksP.S i live on Vancouver Island if that helps
-
ANSWER:
Don't know it this helps, but I have dealt with a company called Hook and Hackle with good results. They stock almost anything you need for fly fishing at a reasonable price and are very customer service friendly.
-
-
QUESTION:
Should I Become a Fly Fishing Guide?
Hello all, I am 19 years old, living in Colorado.. I am a college student in Western Colorado. I Love fly fishing an consider my self fairly experienced.. I spend my summers working at a guest ranch in the mountains, and fly fish the Big Thompson almost everyday after work ( during the summer)anyway, I have always thought working for a fly shop, and becoming a guide sounds like the life..
-any tips for someone looking to get started?
-what are some pros and cons?
- and what does it take to be a successful guide?Thanks guys!
-
ANSWER:
Here's some tips:NUMBER 1- Don't quit your day job! Do guiding on the side for (at least) 2-3 years. Most guides live off of repeat business. Allow yourself time to accrue clients.....
#2. Know the streams, inside and out- Contact a local guide in your area and tell him you'll work for free doing any choirs or guiding he needs doing if he will help you "learn the water". Surely you don't think you know the water's better than some old "crusty" 50-60 year old guide who's been fishing/guiding these waters all his life? Be humble, honest, and LEARN! Understand, you will be in direct competition with other guides; EXPERIENCED guide. Better to work for free and learn than to try to shaft the local guide out of his/her clients- which would be a loosing battle for you anyway.....
#3. Know the hatch- Keep a log of what hatched when and where and at what time.
#4. Purchase quality equipment and outfits- A client that pays top dollar is NOT always expected to bring his own rod/reel, waders and general tackle. You need to be able to fully outfit a client, (or 3) with top quality gear, (if need be). Do you have any idea how much that will cost? It's not cheap.......
5. "Catching" isn't always the most important aspect of guiding. Being very knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna, is. Having a good attitude, is. Being able to cook a "gourmet" shore lunch is. LISTENING to your client, is. SMILING, is. (you get the picture)
Fly-fishermen don't expect to load up their creel with fish every time they go. If you can offer a fun "experience" along with the "catching" you'll be off to a good start. Attitude is EVERYTHING. If you tend to not get along with people, then don't even start.
A good idea is to go to night-school or college for a biology degree. You may even want to take a few buisness classes. ADVERTISE!
EXPECT to be poorer than dirt for at least the first 3 years you guide full time.
Pray for fish.
-
-
QUESTION:
A question about "non-traditional" fly fishing?
I have a setup that I use with a regular spinning reel and rod and a dry fly. I cast the fly over tules and lilly pads in fast moving streams, let the bail free and wait for a top water strike or I use them for trolling shallow waters at really slow speeds. It works fairly well (not as well as traditional fly fishing i'm sure, but nevertheless, I catch fish). I am going to the Merced River in the Yosemite Valley in a few days and I have to use barbless hooks so I will be grinding down some of my dry flies but I just went and got some barbless wet flies. The guy at the store told me that if I am going to use them with a spinning rod (I was surprised he didn't kick me out of the fly fishing shop for the question) that I should tie one fly about 12 inches up from the tag and then another fly about 5 inches below the first. Then put a small split-shot at the end of the tag and tie a knot to stop it from moving or falling off. Does anyone else have any tips or experiences with fishing flies on a spinning rod?I would go get a fly rod, but I can't afford it at this time and I don't know how to fly fish with a fly rod. Thanks.
-
ANSWER:
I've been doing something like that for years with both dry flies and wet flies. A spinning rod set up with six pound line, a clear casting bubble filled halfway with water, a small barrel swivel and the fly on a twelve to twenty-four inch leader.I'll slide the bubble up onto the mainline, cut off twelve, sixteen, eighteen or twenty-four inches of my mainline and sit it aside, then tie on a barrel swivel just big enough to keep the bubble from sliding down over it, then tie on my mainline-material leader and fly onto the end of that.
I don't fish streams but use this cheesy method when trout get stocked and they readily strike. Sometimes with a dry fly on top, they splash on it and spray water thinking they're a wild rainbow or something, but most of the time they just barely strike and all I see is the float go down.
-
