Fly Fishing Wyoming

I wonder what it is about fly fishing shops that makes it impossible for we fisher people
to pass them by. Is there a hidden angler casting an invisible leader that attaches to any
piece of clothing remotely associated with fishing?

Could it be that tackle stores exude an odor that causes the unsuspecting fisherman to rise
and follow? I don't know what it is, but it sure makes fishing stores attractive.

Different kinds of fly fishing shops

If you are a connoisseur of fly fishing shops you'll be aware that there are as many
varieties as there are spots on a brown trout.

There are shops that cater for all sports including fishing. The expert fisherman usually
scorns them. Newcomers can find some useful bits and pieces if they look closely enough
and there are certainly salespeople willing to sell novices as much as they want which is
usually twice as much as they need.

Then there are the fishing/hunting stores. At least these usually have someone who knows
how to fish and is willing to give you great advice.

Of course it might be advice on subjects other than fly fishing, but if you listen carefully
you might pick up a tip or two. You might also leave the store with gear suitable for
fishing any rivers in any country in the world, except the one right outside your door.

Specialist fly fishing shops

Now I'm a real addict of the specialist fly fishing shop. If there is a fly fishing heaven
then it has to have one of these stores.

The specialist shop has a large area where you can inspect every fly that has ever been
invented, each variety in its own little cube. Along the center aisles are fishing rods to
suit every need and every skill level. I wonder if they need field testers?

You'll see float tubes and pontoon boats hanging from the high walls and trophy fish hanging
beneath them. The implication is that these beauties have been caught on tackle
purchased from the store. They're probably right.

To further peak your interest, fly fishing shops often have brag boards where many
fishermen and women are highlighted along with pictures of their mega fish. Of course
there's always the small print that, like my diet program, says "results may not be
representative".

What you can buy at fly fishing shops

Any decent fly fishing shop will have a large array of tackle. If you intend fishing an area
with which you are not familiar, find a salesperson who fishes the local water regularly.

Before you enter the shop, think about what you are going in for. You'll save money if
you stick with your plan (good luck). Look at the flies that match the hatches on water
you'll be fishing.

You might be tempted to buy several line weights and sinking rates. Not much good to
you if they don't work with your rod. A beginner will fall into this trap. I know; I've been
there. You think that the more tackle you have, the better angler you'll be.

Too many anglers are walking around with tackle that they'll never use. Be bold, say no
thanks once in a while. The money you save might pay for your next fly fishing trip.

You can buy tackle and you can purchase boxes to carry it. Tackle boxes come in all
styles, shapes, and sizes. I prefer one that allows me to adjust the compartments. My
favorite has a couple of pockets on the outside to hold small fly boxes or bits and pieces
that I use often.

You can also buy fishing clothing at fly fishing shops. Vests, waders, boots, jackets, hats,
the list goes on and on. Again, be selective and choose the gear that suits your needs.

Essential to the fly fisherman is a pair of Polaroid sunglasses. These will enable you to
see into the water and also protect your eyes from wayward flies and sun. Fly fishing
shops usually have a large selection.

Fly fishing shops can be extremely addictive. It is wise to have a non-fishing buddy
accompany you when you go shopping. Give your partner the list of things you need and
instruct them to drag you out when you've bought what you planned.

Promise your buddy a great reward for his or her help; dragging crying adults from the fly
fishing shop can be really embarrassing.

White River Fly Shop Triangular Double Fly Rod Case
Price: $29.99
The perfect way to reduce the number of fly rod cases you travel with. Whether you travel by air or car to your favorite water, these high-quality fly rod cases provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing your treasured rods are well-protected. The triangular design of these cases makes them much stronger for their weight than a comparable round tube. Holds two fly rods. Made in USA.

White River Fly Shop? Rod and Reel Cases
Price: $39.99
The best rod and reel insurance available! These affordably priced White River Fly Shops Rod and Reel Cases feature rugged 1000 denier Cordura material over a durable PVC protective tube. These lightweight, easy-to-carry rod and reel cases have YKK zippers, and are lined with nylon for additional padding. Color: Olive. Imported.

Fly fishing rod cases are designed to prevent your rod from breaking when it is in storage
or when you are transporting it to your favorite fishing hole.

Why use fly fishing rod cases

On a recent trip overseas my father gave me one of his fly rods. He didn’t have a fly
fishing rod case spare so we made do with a home made canvas cover and a piece of pvc
pipe. The rod made it back through the rigors of international travel without a problem.

The time and effort that went into the home-style rod case would probably have been
better spent going to the local tackle store and buying a rod case. Still, we fisher people
are a sentimental lot and I have the pipe, still sporting its tickets and identification labels,
stashed on a shelf in my garage.

Without the case, it is unlikely that the rod would come through the trip unscathed. Fly
rods are expensive and fragile. It doesn’t take a lot to damage them, especially the
vulnerable tip section. I am surprised at the number of anglers I see fighting their way
through brush and trees and using their unprotected rods to push the vegetation aside.

If you carry your rod uncased, you are asking for a broken rod. Rods carried loose in the
back of your truck, will roll around. Tips hit windows or other objects in the car and are
broken. Breaking a rod while fighting a lunker trout is one thing, breaking it before you
even reach the water is another.

I remember from sad experience a time that I reversed my car into a shady spot under
some trees. When I reached for my rod, securely attached to the roof rack, I saw that it
had run up against a branch and what was once a two piece outfit was now a three. No
rod case!

What to look for in a fly fishing rod case

Fly fishing rod cases come in a variety of designs and prices. Personal preference is fine
but make sure that the one you buy will do its job adequately.

A soft case works if it has plenty of lining materials to protect your rod. The best cases
include an interior rigid tube with a built in rod sock.

I prefer a case that I can open fully to access the rod. One with a long zipper which means
I don’t have to slide the piece in or out works for me. If you do have to insert your rod
pieces from one end, make sure that you slide the thicker end in first. Never insert the tip
of your rod into the case as it can catch and break.

If you like to carry your rod ready rigged, you can purchase fly rod cases that have room
for the attached reel. A quality case will have the reel fitting well padded and preferably
with moisture wicking capabilities. This can be either as holes in the pocket from which
water can drain or will be constructed of moisture wicking materials such as neoprene or
Polartec®.

A shoulder strap is a nice convenience if you are packing your rod any distance. If you
are hiking into the back country and strap your rod to the side of your backpack, watch
out for overhangs or bushes that might snag the case. The rod will be protected, but you
could find yourself brought to a sudden halt.

What is available in fly fishing rod cases

If you carry a couple of rods with you, you can get dual fly fishing rod cases. Most come
in sizes to fit one, two, three, or four piece rods.

Rod cases come with soft outer materials or with hard cases. There is a square rod carrier
designed to stop your rod from rolling around on luggage carriers at the airport. If you
travel a lot and have your rod in the hold, the square design might be worth looking at.

A case for a three or four piece rod will often fit in the overhead luggage compartment on
the plane which is where I like to have mine. Be prepared for customs and security
checks on carried-on rod cases.

I see that there is a combo luggage and rod carrier on the market. You can carry your
clothing and rods all in one unit. I like the sound of that although I haven’t had a close
look. It might prevent the “left behind” syndrome that gets all of us at one time or
another.

If you go searching for fly fishing rod cases on the Internet, you’ll be bombarded with
information and reasons why a certain fabric, style or brand is better than any other. As
long as the case protects your rod, your personal preference should be the determining
factor. Think about where you spend most of your time fishing and how you get there,
and you have the basis for selecting the case that will be most useful to you.

There are so many choices to make when it comes to boat fly fishing. As more
and more anglers venture out on the water, they do so in a variety of craft. However, most
fly fishermen prefer smaller fly fishing boats. Why? Fish often feed in areas that are difficult for
larger boats to access.

Inflatable boats such as pontoons and float tubes are ideal as fly fishing boats. Their use
is increasing every season on lakes and still waters everywhere.

Hyde Drift Boats Fly Fishing Hat Drift Boat    US $13.02

Hyde Drift Boats Fly Fishing Hat Drift Boat    US $8.00

BOAT SEA FISHING POLARIZED SUNGLASSES MENS NEW CARP FLY    US $5.95

Personal Fly Fishing Inflatable Pontoon Boat CIMARRON    US $219.99

Fly Fishing Basics Knots Equipment Casting Drift Boats    US $3.99

9ft Tieton Pontoon Fly Fishing Class II River Boat seat    US $327.22

Fly Fishing Decal ST17 Outdoor Fishing Boat Stickers 6    US $2.99

FLY FISH FISHING BLACK CAP HAT SPORTSMEN BOAT BOATING    US $7.99

Fly Fishing Decal ST19 Outdoor Fishing Boat Stickers 6    US $2.99

INTARSIA MARLIN suit fly rod spinboatgame fishing    US $39.72

View Page:   1  2

Powered by PHPBay Pro

Boat fly fishing skills

Once you have decided on your fly fishing boat you need to develop your boat fly fishing skills.
Fishing from a moving platform takes some getting used to. Even a boat at anchor on still
waters will move when you move.

Fishing punts have the advantage of being able to enter weed-covered water where fish
are often holding. Boats like these are often used for fishing towards the shoreline,
especially useful when targeting bass or spawning trout.

Casting a fly line from a boat requires both skill and balance. It is even more difficult if
you are fishing moving waters. You have to take into account the movement of the boat
as you cast otherwise your line might not land where you had planned.

Navigating moving water takes some practice. The rule of thumb on moving water is to
aim the boat in the direction the current is moving. If you have to negotiate rapids, then
stow your fishing gear and point the bow of the boat towards the tongue, or vee, and enter
the rapid there. If you are moving forward you can see any problem spots as they appear.

Much of the time on moving waters you will want to get out of the boat and wade. If this
is your fishing preference then buy a boat with easy access. It is fine to clamber out and
fish a pool or two, but if you can't get back into your boat you are faced with the problem
of manhandling it to a safe place. That could be a few miles downstream.

Boats for fly fishing are often portable and light weight. Anglers will hike several miles
to a mountain lake or river carrying an inflatable float tube so that they can still get on the
water. Some float tubes fold into their own backpack, convenient for the hiking angler.

Pontoon boats are excellent for fly fishing. They are easily set up and come with
inflatable or permanently inflated hulls. I prefer the inflatable for portability reasons but it
is a matter of choice. Once set up both the rigid hull and inflatable pontoon works equally
well. It takes a few practice runs with a pontoon boat to fine-tune your fly fishing skills
on the water.

Boat fishing fly rods

Boat fishing fly rods are no different than those you use from the shore. From the boat
you don't often have structure behind you to interfere with your cast. If you are sitting
low in the water, like in a float tube or low punt, make sure that your rod is long enough
so that you don't touch the water on your back cast.

I prefer a 9 foot rod for most of my fishing. The longer rod allows for easier back cast when
sitting low in the water and is much easier make mends when foating down a stream.

If you are using an inflatable fishing boat, make sure that there is a place to attach your
rod. It doesn't take much of a knock to send your loose rod into the depths. This is an
expensive lesson to learn and can really leave you feeling very frustrated. I haven't lost
a rod like this but I have caught one as it was going down. If you lay your rod down, take
a second to strap it to your tube or pontoon boat.

Boat fly fishing

Fly fishing boats allow the angler to access water not available to a shore fisherman or
woman. Boats designed for fly fishing can be relatively inexpensive. When you go looking make
sure that the one you choose is suitable for the type of water you intend to use it on.

White River Fly Shop? Fly Tying Kit - Trout Tying
Price: $59.95
One of the most rewarding experiences in fly fishing is catching a fish on a fly of your own creation. To help you reach that goal, the folks at White River Fly Shop have created this series of fly-tying kits that include everything you'll need to learn how to tie your favorite flies, including a FREE instructional DVD featuring Lefty Kreh! In this kit, you'll find high-quality tools, vise, hooks, and materials, all carefully selected to make your introduction to fly tying simple and enjoyable. The effective handcrafting trout kit includes material and DVD instruction to tie the following patterns: Wooly Booger, Pheasant Tail Nymph, Gold Ribbed Hare's Ear Nymph, Elk Hair Caddis, Adams, and Flying Ant. These patterns are equally effective for sunfish angling!

Like almost everything else in the fly fishing arena, there is an abundance of fly tying kits designed to attract the angler who wants to tie his own flies. They range in price (and quality) from under $50 to over $200. It's another case of what you pay is what you get.

Buying fly tying kits

A fly tying kit that falls apart after its first use is not going to enamor you of the art of tying flies. So even if this is a 'find out if I like it trial' for you, I recommend that you buy a quality beginners kit. You can always pass it along if you decide fly tying is not your favorite thing to do.

You can purchase a fly tying kit complete with tools and fly tying materials or one with just tools, or one with just materials.

Be aware that a fly tying kit does not necessarily include the tools. Look carefully at what is listed so you won't find yourself with a mass of hackles, threads and hooks but no tools.

The most important of the tools you'll use is the vise. When you purchase your fly tying kit, make sure that the included vise will firmly hold a variety of hooks, small and large.

The kit should also include a bobbin, preferably ceramic, a threader, a bodkin, and a whip finisher. I recommend that you buy the tool kit only. That's where the bulk of your money should go.

Buying fly tying materials later allows you to select those that are suitable for your fishing waters. The generic ones included in some fly tying kits are not always useful other than for practice.

The best and worst of fly tying kits

Fly tying kits are a great way for beginners to have a go at this aspect of fly fishing. They will give you a chance to see what is involved without incurring great expense.

The disadvantages of fly tying kits are that you don't have the selection of tools you have when buying by piece, and you have little choice of what is contained in the kit. The cheaper kits have cheap materials and will not last for very long.

Tying your own flies can turn into a rewarding experience. Using poor quality materials can quickly turn the experience sour. If you are going with a fly tying kit buy the best you can afford and check carefully to see that the tools included are quality ones. You'll be thankful down the road.

With the advent of the fly fishing chest pack, is the fisherman's vest a thing of the past?
Maybe not, but the chest pack is certainly something to consider when heading for the
trout stream.

Watermark Fly Fishing Guide Lite Chest Pack Tan Vest    US $15.00

William Joseph Fly Fishing Solo Chest Pack Evergreen    US $23.50

Redington Fly Fishing Vest Chest Pack    US $5.00

New Patagonia Fly Fishing Hip Chest Pack    US $35.00

Watermark Fly Fishing Chest Pack Tan Vest Closeout    US $.99

MFGGS FLY FISHING CHEST PACK    US $7.49

Allen Fly Fishing Essential Compact Wader Chest Pack    US $19.99

Fly Fishing Anglers 2 sided Chest Pack Fieldline NEW    US $9.99

NWT FlyteDeck Fly Fishing Chest Pack Light and Easy NR    US $35.00

Fishpond Fly Fishing Blue River Chest Pack Khaki Red    US $.99

View Page:   1  2

Powered by PHPBay Pro

Taking a look at fly fishing chest packs

Fly fishing chest packs come in assorted sizes and styles. Some of them are almost a
hybrid of the fishing vest, others a jumped up fanny pack. Its usefulness depends on how
and where you are fishing.

The most basic of the chest packs is a fanny pack that is worn around the chest. These
will carry not much more than a small tackle box and some sunscreen, which is fine if
you are planning on fishing close by your car or campsite. They are not suitable for a full
day out on the water.

Larger fanny packs will hold more equipment, but still not the amount afforded by the
multi-pocketed vests.

Much more suitable is the full chest pack that wears like a vest. It normally has adjusting
shoulder and waist belts, with enough pockets to satisfy most anglers.

These vests sometimes come with a back section designed to hold a hydration pack and
your lunch. The hydration system is great when the sun is beating down on you, but who
has time for lunch when the fish are biting?

Advantages of fly fishing chest packs

Wearing a fly fishing chest pack will certainly make you consider carefully the tackle that
you need before you step into a flowing stream. You'll have to be selective and know the
waters well, so that you don't leave the perfect fly, or change of leader, back in your car.

The main disadvantage of a vest is getting it to fit properly. Most vests are on the large
size and tend flap around and can catch on branches and overhanging whatevers at the
most inconvenient time. The chest pack fits snuggly avoiding most hang-ups.

A good chest pack can be adjusted to ride higher when you're wading in deeper water so
that your tackle has a reasonable chance of staying dry. The various straps are great for
attaching miscellaneous goodies, including your net.

I've seen a chest pack that allows you access to inner pockets through the outer ones.
Also there are some that have a strap to secure the pack when you need to get to inner
pockets by unzipping the front.

Disadvantages of fly fishing chest packs

The very thing that can make a fly fishing chest pack a good choice is also its greatest
disadvantage. If you need to carry a large amount of tackle for the waters you are fishing,
the chest pack holds less than the traditional vest.

Many manufacturers of fishing vests now offer at least one fly fishing chest pack. Head
off to a fishing supplies store that carries a variety and try them on. You'll be able to
decide which one is most likely to work for you.

If you can't find one at a store, try an online search for fly fishing chest packs; you'll be
surprised at the number of hits you receive.

Bamboo fly fishing rods used to be the classic rod. Their popularity declined with the
advent of the graphite pole, but bamboo rods have never disappeared and it is still
possible to buy one or have one custom designed.

Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook Sinclair Fly Rod book    US $75.00

Vintage Bamboo Trout Fly Fishing Rod Johnny Walker 86    US $41.59

RAREVINTAGE STJOE SPECIAL 3 1 9 BAMBOO FLY ROD    US $39.95

VINTAGE BAMBOO FLY RODS 3    US $36.00

6 Bamboo Fly Rod Old New Agate Tip Top Guides sz 7 8    US $24.99

ANTIQUE OLD FLY FISHING REEL BAMBOO ROD HEXAGON 3 PC    US $19.00

1950 Bamboo Fly Rod 100 Perfection Snake GuidesSz 3 0    US $49.99

1950 Bamboo Fly Rod 100 Perfection Snake GuidesSz 4 0    US $49.99

Bamboo Fly Rod 6 1 2 foot 2 2 2 3 wt Magnigficent    US $299.95

Vintage MONTAGUE Bamboo fly Rod Handle Mid Section    US $7.99

View Page:   1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  10

Powered by PHPBay Pro

Bamboo fishing fly rods, whisperers on the water

I once made the mistake of sleeping under a large stand of bamboo. During the night a
slight wind arose. The creaking, groaning, and wailing of bamboo in motion soon woke
me. It was an eerie, somewhat disturbing sound.

The very flexibility and movement in bamboo that gave me a sleepless night, is what
makes bamboo fly fishing rods revered among many anglers. An Internet site devoted to
fly fishing with bamboo rods shows that there are still many anglers who are devotees of
this rod building material.

Proponents of the bamboo rod often say that the rod speaks to them and there is certainly
a sense of life in a bamboo rod that you don't feel in graphite ones.

The design of bamboo fishing fly rods

Bamboo was one of the first materials used in making fly rods. Over the years there have
been a few changes in how they are constructed, and a well-made bamboo fishing fly rod
performs extremely well.

Bamboo rods are not constructed from one piece of cane. Instead, triangular strips of
bamboo, four to six of them, are glued together to form a hexagonal shape. They are
tempered until they appear as one piece

The flexibility of bamboo, which gives it its nice movement, can also cause it to distort so
rod manufacturers usually impregnate the bamboo with other compounds.

A rod that is not impregnated with plastics or similar materials will require more
maintenance. The cheaper rods have several coats of varnish will need touching up on a
regular basis.

Action of the bamboo fishing fly rod

Bamboo fishing fly rods are generally slower action rods. They are a little heavier than
their graphite or fiberglass competitors. For a slow action rod using the very lightest of
tippets, you cannot beat bamboo.

Collecting bamboo fishing fly rods

Just because something is old, it does not mean that it is a collectable

In the early days of bamboos fishing fly rods, mass production occurred just as it does
today. Mass produced rods do not bring good dollars.

If you are seriously interested in collecting antique bamboo rods, look for one that was
handcrafted by the masters. Any rod you find that was built by John Landman, Hiram
Leonard, or Thomas Chubb should be worth a bit, especially if they are in prime
condition.

A quality bamboo fishing fly rod will cost you big bucks. Prices can range from several
hundred to several thousand dollars, but you can bond to these rods like no other I know.
As you lay a fly softly over a wary brown, you'll hear the rod whispering approval and
you'll know that the cost of this tool was well worth the dent in your wallet.

White River Fly Shop 20-Piece Trout Starter Assortment
Price: $19.99
One of the most complete trout fly assortments ever assembled, this starter assortment consists of 10 of the most productive patterns. Veteran fly fishers tie on these ?go to? flies in any water, under any weather condition. This Trout Starter Assortment includes 2 of each of the following patterns: BH Brassie Prince Nymph BH C-N Pheasant Tail Flashback Elk Hair Caddis Sparkle Caddis Pupa High-Vis Parachute (BWO, Adams and PMD) MFC Chernobyl Ant Black Krystal Bugger

Every fly fisherman or women has some favorite flies in his or her tackle boxes. Many of
them have fly fishing fly assortments to die for. These anglers know that having the right
fly at the right time can make the difference between a successful trip and an
unsuccessful one.

The beginning angler can find the variety in types of flies, their patterns, and their sizes
very confusing. Some will purchase a grab bag of assorted flies in the hope that one or
two of them will bring results.

What is available in fly fishing fly assortments

Grab bags of fly fishing fly assortments are just that. You purchase a selection of flies in
quantities of 10, 20, or 50, or whatever the store offers. These grab bags are filled with
generic flies, supposedly successful on any and every river, stream, or lake.

Unfortunately this rarely proves to be the case. The flies are chosen by the seller to
whatever specification he/she decrees. The buyer does not get to choose what is in the
bag. A tackle box may or may not be included.

Some grab bags do allow a limited choice. You can select whether you want only dries,
or only wets. Again, you do not often have a choice of the fly patterns that are included.

The better fly fishing fly assortments are those that allow the fisherman or woman to
select exactly what is included in the package. If you are fishing a particular stream
where one or two patterns are usually successful, you can ask for those to be included.
You can also state what size you need and the quantities of each of your chosen fly to be
included.

Benefits of fly fishing fly assortments

Purchasing a ready-made fly fishing fly assortment can be a cheaper way of filling your
tackle box. Provided the seller allows you to have some control over your choice, you
will soon build up a fine fly bank.

Having an odd "trier" isn't a bad thing either, for the times when the old favorite isn't
working.

Some stores will suggest a fly assortment for specific waters. This is great for those times
when you are intending to fish unknown areas. A quick online search will put you in
touch with stores that provide this service.

Beginners fly fishing fly assortments

A good fly fishing fly assortment for the novice angler should include some basic
patterns in several sizes. A few attractor patterns can tempt trout when you don't have the
exact fly to match the hatch.

If you are fishing wets, remember that they mostly imitate the adult stage of insects found
in the water. A selection of these in your tackle box in the smaller sizes is a good idea.
Small flies will catch big fish.

A good point to mention here is that sometimes the fly is not the problem when the fish
aren't biting. Your leader can spook fish. If you are matching the hatch but still not
catching fish, try changing your leader to a lighter one. It might make the difference.

One or two streamers like woolly buggers of different colors are another good addition to
your fly fishing fly assortment. Fish these down near the bottom of the river to attract big
lunkers that won't rise to feed.

Once you become more experienced in reading the waters and what is happening on and
in them, it is probably better to collect your own fly fishing fly assortments. A fly fishing
fly assortment that is representative of the waters you usually fish is one that will bring
you the best results.

Madison 7' Pontoon Boat w/ Stadium Seat
Price: $279.99
With a combination of comfort and convenience, the Madison inflatable pontoon boat allows you to focus on fishing. Features heavy-duty pontoons with abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms and tough nylon tops. Powder-coated steel tubing makes a sturdy frame. Includes brass oarlocks and 6' two-piece aluminum oars. Pontoon seat rides high for improved visibility, and safety is enhanced further with double-hull pontoon safety bladders. Inflating and deflating are made easier with combination fill/quick valves. Inflation regulator prevents overfilling, and tow rings and oar retaining straps are added features for convenience and safety. Other features include: Fully padded seat that conforms to the body and adjusts for back angle and distance to foot rests. Seat is extra tall for additional back support and non-slip foot rests accommodate any leg length 12' side pockets and 2 insulated drink holders Large zippered pocket on seat back "Cooler-sized" back mesh storage platform Detachable mesh stripping apron with ruler Detachable foam fly patch Specifications: 7' pontoons 350-lb. capacity Assembled size: 84" x 50" and 32" inflated height to top of seat Weight: 46 lbs. 1 year warranty

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

After a frustrating weekend fishing I had to rethink my tactics. The bass were around, as
were the trout, but the only people catching them were fishing from boats. I'm not in the
market for a big bucks craft, but I watched closely as one angler caught his limit from his
fly fishing pontoon boat.

Winter is slow in leaving these parts so the thought of having my nether regions
immersed in icy waters put the idea of a float tube way down on my list. The guy on the
pontoon boat was sitting well above the water.

Casting from the pontoon boat looked pretty easy. He laid out that line in a perfect arc
towards the weeds where the hungry fish were waiting.

I went home and began to research the specs of the pontoon boat.

What's available in fly fishing pontoon boats?

The wide selection of fly fishing pontoon boats available testifies to their popularity.
Most are in the 8 – 9 feet size and most have v-shaped bladders that maximize their
maneuverability on the water.

Pontoon boats come with either inflatable or solid air bladders. The one you choose will
depend mainly on how you plan to transport it. The inflatable type will fit inside your car
when deflated and can be carried to the water to be inflated.

The solid bladder pontoon boat is less portable than its inflatable cousin. You'll either
need a big truck to carry it in or a roof rack to tie it to. However, it's a lot quicker to set
up when you get it to the water.

If you plan on hiking into mountain lakes to use your pontoon boat, then the inflatable is
a lot lighter and the better choice. Although the bladders are strong and designed to take
some rough handling, make sure that you have a repair kit with you for those unexpected
problems.

Some pontoon boats are rated for whitewater, some for only quiet and sheltered waters.
Don't make the mistake of using the latter on the rapids. They will not respond and can
cause a nasty accident, the least of which will be the demise of your boat.

Pros and cons of fly fishing pontoon boats

Fly fishing pontoons are designed with several compartments for storing tackle. Look for
plenty of d-rings for attaching extras like nets and fish finders. Rod holders are a great
added-extra also.

Fly fishing pontoon boats can go places where larger boats cannot. There are now models
that hold two people if you want to take a companion with you. Conversely, pontoon
boats will not take you where large boats will. Use a pontoon boat wisely.

The larger the pontoon boat, the more difficult it is to manage. If you plan on taking a lot
of gear on the water, you'll need the bigger pontoon. Overloading a smaller boat is
dangerous. Don't do it!

You need to check fishing regulations before launching your pontoon. On some waters
the use of any craft on the water is prohibited, and that includes float tubes and pontoon
boats.

Pontoon boats are less expensive than the average fishing boat, and more versatile than
the tube. They keep you up out of water, well almost. Some pontoons can be manouvered
by a combination of oars and feet.

Inflatable pontoon boats take a bit of time to set up, but that time is well worth spending
if you want to access those places inaccessible by foot, but where the fish are holding.

It takes a bit of practice to get used to maneuvering fly fishing pontoons boats, but once
you have got that down, they are a very versatile fishing platform.

If you plan on building your own fly rod, there are fly fishing rod materials that you will
need. Buying quality blanks and components will ensure that you'll enjoy the rod for
years to come.

The rod blank: the first and most important of fly fishing rod materials

After you've considered the type of rod you want to build, your first purchase will be the
rod blank. This is the most critical component of all your fly fishing rod materials.

Rod blanks are available in several materials. Graphite is the most commonly used, but
fiberglass and bamboo blanks are still available. Play around with a few before you
decide.

Try a few false casts to get the feel of the blank in your hands. You are going to spend
some time together. A short time fishing with an ill-fitting rod quickly reduces your
enjoyment level.

Fly fishing rod materials must compliment each other

Fly fishing rod materials that compliment each other are essential if you want a balanced
and versatile finished product. If rod weight and line weight do not match you will find
casting difficult at best and impossible at worst.

It is critical to the finished weight, feel and action of your rod that the snake guides are
the right size. They vary according to the rod blank you are using. Ask the advice of a
knowledgeable salesperson for help on this.

It is possible to buy a custom made reel seat and grip to fit your rod blank, but often you
will have to enlarge the hole by using a round file or similar tool. If the grip or seat is too
large then you will need to wrap tape around the blank to make it fit snuggly in place.

The other items needed to complete your materials are a tip top, the guide that is placed at
the tip of the rod, a stripping guide, a hook keeper, and a winding check.

The tools of your fly fishing rod materials

Your fly fishing rod materials should contain some specialized tools. If you are using a
tapered rod blank, a tapered reamer will make the job of sizing the grip much easier. A
round file will suffice if you haven't got the reamer.

You'll need a sharp knife (exacto type) and scissors to cut threads and trim bits and
pieces. A tape measure and marking pen will help you place the guides correctly.

A fly tying bodkin helps to align the thread wraps, eliminating any gaps and ensuring an
expert finish.

To keep tension on your threads a weight bearing device of some kind is necessary. It can
be a special thread tensioning tool or anything that will maintain good tension on the
thread as it winds onto the rod.

To ensure all the components stay in place you'll need epoxy glue (slow-setting), thinner
or epoxy brush cleaner, sandpaper of differing coarseness, and masking tape.

With the above-mentioned tools in your fly fishing rod materials kit, you are ready to
begin building your own rod. Quality materials will produce the best results. Your local
rod building suppliers will give the advice on the components that match the blank you
choose.

So you've learned all the basics, you've spent some time on the rivers, and you know that
this sport is going to control your life for the next twenty years or more. Now you want to
try fly fishing rod building.

First purchase for fly rod building: the rod blank

Before you begin fly fishing rod building you'll need to consider the type of rod that you
want to construct. Your style of fishing, the places that you intend to fish mostly, and
your abilities will all impact the type of rod that will suit you.

Personal preference plays a lot in deciding the rod blank that best suits your needs. The
main thing that you need to know is that the rod blank and the line weight you will fish
need to compliment each other.

If you fish in windy conditions, or on waters where long casts are required, your rod
blank will need to be around 9 feet long with a fast action. Conversely, casting light lines
in confined spaces requires a shorter, lighter rod with a moderate action to help make
delicate presentations.

If you've ever fished from a float tube, you'll understand that a longer rod will give you
the higher cast needed when you're sitting low in the water.

Taking the time to consider your normal fishing conditions before purchasing your rod
blank will help you make a suitable choice. Remember, quality costs, but the results
show. Buy the very best you can afford.

The extra components for fly fishing rod building

Aside from the rod blank you'll need the following components before you can begin fly
fishing rod building. A reel seat, grip, winding check, and hook keeper will take care of
the butt end of the rod. Make sure that these items suit the blank you are purchasing.

Components for the rest of the rod include stripping and snake guides, and a tip top (the
ring that sits at the end of the rod). You'll need thread for attaching these guides.

Fly fishing rod building: putting it all together

Fly fish rod building is more than buying the equipment and slapping it all together.
Completing the rod takes time and patience.

It is possible to buy a complete kit with instructions. The advantage in this is that you
have everything at hand. The disadvantage is that you do not have the chance to
personalize the components so that they are exactly what you want.

Before you begin to put it all together you need to know which side to put the guides on.
Your rod blank is more flexible on one side that it is on the other. The guides will go on
the natural curve, or the weaker side.

When you use epoxy glue, for attaching the tip top, etc, remember that you need to clean
up any drips or excess glue immediately. Even alcohol will not work after the glue has
set.

Placement of the reel seat comes next. Measure where it is going to go but do not glue it
in place. You might need to cut off a piece of the butt to have the reel seat in the correct
position.

Prepare the grip. If you are building it yourself this is the time to do so. If it is ready-
made, you might need to enlarge the hole so that it fits tightly. If it is too big then you'll
need to wrap tape around the butt for a proper fit.

After the grip is in place add the winding check. It will be held in place by the wraps so
you don't need to glue it down.

Fly fishing rod building: completing the project

Once the rod butt end is complete, it is time to place the guides, usually one per foot of
rod. In order to wind the guides on you'll need to have some tension on the thread.

Once you have all the rod components in place, it is time to personalize it with your
signature or other mark(s). After the ink is dry coat it with a protective finish.

Cover the rod with thin coats of rod varnish or another recommended finish. Follow the
manufacturers instructions closely. Do not touch the rod while it is drying!

After everything is dry glue the reel seat in position. Your rod is finished.

There are classes, books and Internet sites to guide you through the processing of
completing your fly fishing rod building project.

If this is your first attempt, I strongly suggest that you get some instruction. You will be
putting a lot of time and money into building your own rod; it makes sense to find an
instructor to help you through the process of fly fishing rod building.

White River Fly Shop? Classic Reel and Travel Rod Combo
Price: $199.99
White River Classic Outfits You get the Classic fly rod matched to ourClassic reel, known for its flawless multi-discdrag, machined and anodized aluminumconstruction, and attention to craftsmanship. We'll also include weight-forward CV2 fly line, Magibraid? backing, a tapered leader, and, of course, the rod sock and tube. Reel models 7 weight and above include a Full Wells grip and fighting butt. White River Classic Fly Rods Crisp, precise, beautifully crafted! For seasoned pros and entry level anglers alike, this has become our most popular series of rods. Smooth casting, medium-fast action IM-7 graphite blanks appointed with high-quality components such as Fuji? Hardloy? stripping guides, handsome rosewood reel seat with nickel fittings, oversized stainless steel snake guides, andpremium-grade, custom-lathed cork grips. Sock and heavy-duty rod tube included.

Fly fishing combos are ideal for the beginning fly fisher. As any fly fisherman or woman will
tell you, a balanced outfit is essential if you want to have a good fly fishing experience.
Quality fly fishing combos come with matched fly rod, fly reel and fly line.

How not to buy a fly fishing combo

You can run off to your local department store, check out the sports department and leave
with a $30.00 fly fishing combo in hand. That’s all very fine if you are going out for a
one day fly fishing trip and have no plans to cast a line again.

If however, you have decided to learn the art of fly fishing, a cheap combo will
disappoint you more than having an empty creel.

Components of the cheap outfit are unlikely to be balanced. That means that the rod, reel
and line are not designed to compliment each other. They will feel awkward and
uncomfortable.

How to buy a fly fishing combo

Matching equipment is the key to both fly fishing pleasure and success. No, I don’t mean
that your rod, reel and line should all be color co-coordinated. The line weight needs to
match the rod weight and the reel should balance them both.

Before you consider the combo, you need to think about the type of fly fishing you are going
to be doing. Are you targeting the small, easily spooked trout of high mountain streams?
Are you looking for fighting rainbows in lakes and larger rivers? The answer to these and
other questions determine the combo that you should buy.

Another consideration is the geography of the waters you fish. If they are difficult to
access with a lot of vegetation, you’ll need a short rod that is easy to cast and control.
Lake fishing sometimes requires long casts into deep water. Your combo needs to be
capable of sending out a long line.

For your first combo, consider buying a general purpose one that will suit most of the
conditions you will fish. A 5 or 6 weight, 8 to 9 foot rod should be about right. (The
numbers on the rod blank indicate the weight of the line that should be used.)

As you become more experienced and fish more specialized water, you can purchase
additional equipment.

Many fishing combos come already rigged for fishing with fly line and backing on the
reel. The salesperson where you make your purchase will add backing and line for you if
necessary. Other combos require that you buy the line separately. Make sure that you get
line to suit the rod.

Types of fly fishing combo outfits

Fly fishing combos are designed for different fishing conditions. This is the basis of your
initial choice. Once you have decided the conditions you will be fishing, you can have a
look at the variety of fly fishing combos to suit those situations.

Buying the best quality you can afford will ensure that you have a combo to last for
several years. However, you can buy a good combo outfit for about $100.

If you do a lot of hiking into rivers and streams, you can buy a combo with a rod that
breaks down into as many as four to seven sections. I love these rods as they can be strapped
easily to the outside of my backpack. There are no long pieces to be trapped and damaged
by overhanging trees and bushes.

Other rods come in two or three sections. Whatever you decide on, you need to buy a
case if one is not included. Rods are delicate; it does not take much to snap the tip, and a
rod traveling loose in your vehicle is an accident waiting to happen.

Sometimes a cheap fly fishing combo will say that the rod is made from graphite. Usually this
means that there is some graphite content in the material but it will be minimal. A true
graphite fly rod will be more expensive, but its cost is balanced by the ease with which it can
be cast. It will also be lighter than its cheaper cousin.

A good equation to remember when purchasing a fly fishing combo is that a long fly rod will
cast long distances more easily than a short fly rod. A short rod is much easier to cast in tight
places. All the components of the combo need to balance. Ask for advice from a
reputable outfitter, they’ll help you buy the fly fishing combo that will please you and
bring in the fish too.

Try a keyword search on fly fishing accessories and you'll come up with a
conglomeration of equipment from nail clippers to carpet cleaner. Well, I think I'll leave
the carpet cleaner at home, but the nail clippers could sure come in handy.

Making the choices in fly fishing accessories

Considering the limited carrying capacity an angler has when he or she steps into the
water, manufacturers of fly fishing accessories have some remarkable products they
believe you can't live without.

Now I'm not talking about tackle here. I'm thinking about all those extras that are
designed to ensure that your 30 vest pockets are all filled.

Making the choice of what is necessary and what is not, can be very hard for an angler
who is addicted to "stuff". Some items will make your fishing life a little easier; some
will just fill empty space.

Helpful fly fishing accessories

Clippers are helpful fly fishing accessories. Used to clip any excess line from your fly, or
to remove the fly from the line, or even to remove hackle from a fly so that it resembles
what is hatching, they are less likely to give you a stab than sharp nosed scissors.

My eyes are getting a bit tired now, so I like to use a hook holder. It has saved me from
many a pricked finger as well as enabling me to attach the fly to my leader much more
quickly.

If you are fishing dries, a fly dressing is something well worth adding to your pockets. A
dressing holder is not necessary. Just don't put the dressing bottle in the deep pockets of
your vest.

That brings up the idea of organization. If your tackle boxes, or fly fishing vest pockets, are
organized, you'll probably find that you can limit the number of fly fishing accessories
that you need.

Put small items in small pockets, frequently used items close at hand, and put each one in
the same place every time you use it, so that you can access it quickly.

A measure of some kind is a good idea if you intend taking your catch home. Rather than
adding a tape to your accessories, think about putting markers on your rod to indicate
size. As long as the marker doesn't interfere with your casting, anything will do.

Some fly fishing nets come with measures on them. They are either dyed onto the net itself or
attached to the handle as a retractable tape. The advantage with the net type measure is
that you can check the fish without removing it from the water.

A lanyard is a popular fly fishing accessory. It will hold regularly used items close at
hand. On the down side, remember that the more you have hanging on your vest or on
you, the more there is to snag if you take a dunking. I prefer to keep my items inside my
vest pockets.

If you just can't turn away from gadgets, I guess those luggage tags would come in
handy. If you attach one to each of your fishing vest pockets you'll remember where all
those fly fishing accessories are.

You only have to take a quick look to see that there is a great deal of fly fishing
equipment available. In this article I want to give you some pointers to help you gather
the fly fishing equipment best suited for your needs.

The fly rod: the first item of fly fishing equipment

There are a few things to consider when adding a rod to your fly fishing equipment. You
could go and purchase a general purpose combo outfit which would be adequate for most
situations, but perfect for none. If you spend little time on the water then this is the least
expensive way to go.

If you are a serious angler, then you need to know that a rod is more than a straight piece
of bamboo, graphite, or whatever, that holds your line. The action of the rod will
determine how the line flows and ultimately how the fly is presented on the water.

Naturally the ability of the angler will have a lot to say in the matter also, but a good
fisherman with a poor rod will struggle to cast well.

Fly rods are designed to carry a fly line of a specific weight, or range of weight. Before
you purchase a rod, you need to consider the type of fishing you will be doing and the
weight of the line suitable for that fishing. Those two issues determine your rod selection.

The smaller the fly you will be fishing, the lighter the line, the lighter the rod you will
use. Target small fish, fish small weight is the general principle here. There are
exceptions of course.

If you regularly fish in windy conditions, consider using a slightly heavier rod and line. A
light rod is a beggar to cast into the wind. If you are fishing for salt water trophies, you'll
need to use a heavy rod and line to handle the conditions.

The weight of the rod is only one of the considerations to make. All rods come with
taper. Taper is the degree of flexibility built into the rod. Tapers come in a range from
fast to slow.

A rod with a fast taper flexes mainly at the top. These rods are great for fishing in tight
spots and windy conditions. A slow tapering rod flexes further down towards the butt
end. If you are using a light leader and need to make delicate presentations, this is the rod
of choice.

A rod with a medium taper is a good all round rod and will enable you cast well in most
situations.

Rods vary in length and again knowledge of where you will do your most fishing is
important in the decision. Generally the larger the space, the longer the rod you need.
Anything less than 8 feet is a short rod and ideal for fishing in confined areas. A rod in
the 8 – 9 foot range is the most commonly used for all situations.

If you are fishing open water or lakes and reservoirs, a longer rod of 9 feet plus, will let
you make long casts and give you plenty of line control. It will also give you an aching
arm at the end of the day until you get used to handling it.

Adding the reel to your fly fishing equipment

It used to be that the reel was just a mechanism to hold your line. Now days, the reel is
just as important a part of your fly fishing equipment as the line itself.

If you have to budget somewhere, the reel is probably the one thing you could get away
with buying a cheaper model. That being said, the better your reel, the less likely it is to
fail on you at a crucial moment.

Before you buy your reel, look to see what line capacity it will hold. The numbers are
either on the reel itself, on the packaging, or on the instructions that are included. They
will read something like this WF+100YDs 14lb. The numbers mean that the reel will
hold 100 yards of weight forward line of 14lb strength.

Many anglers like the larger reels as they are supposed to retain less line memory.
Memory is the curl in the line created by its being wrapped around the reel. A line that
retains memory is hard to cast flat on the water.

Don't forget that in choosing your reel you have to allow for the backing that you will
need to include. About a quarter of your reel's capacity should be given over to the
backing line.

Reels have a drag system. There are two types of drag; the click or ratchet system and the
disc system. The disc is the better system and will handle larger or more aggressive fish.

A caution here, if you are fishing in salt water, you will need a reel suitable for that
purpose. Your freshwater reel is not designed to handle salt water and will quickly
corrode.

Most reels these days are adjustable for left or right handed retrieve, and are easily
changed.

Fly fishing equipment: the line

The line makes up the third consideration in setting up your fly fishing equipment. Fly
lines come in several varieties. You can have a floating line, a sinking line, a weight
forward line, a double tapered line. And fly lines come in different weights as well.

Before you bought your rod, you thought about the conditions you were going to fish and
the line you should use. The line weight must be compatible with the rod weight.

You buy your rod to handle the line; you buy the line to suit the rod. You can get away
with slight variations, but using a heavy line on a light rod will adversely affect your
casting abilities.

Fly lines are not long when compared with other fishing lines. They average from 90 to
about 120 feet. Also, unlike other fishing, it is the line that carries the fly to its
destination.

The most commonly used fly line is the weight forward, floating line. I seldom use any
other as I can fish both wets and dries with this line and I find it easier to cast and control.
The only advantage I can see with the double taper line is that you can reverse it on your
reel if the end begins to wear.

If you are into extreme casting you might consider a shooting head line. But these are
difficult to control when you need to make a short cast or precise presentation.

Sinking lines are recommended if you are fishing the bottom of deep water and need to
get the fly down quickly. You can achieve this with a floating line, a short leader and a
small weight at the head of the fly. Some anglers prefer the sinking line and that is a
matter of choice.

I like to use a colored floating line as it helps me see what is happening on the water. Fly
fishing is a visual sport and seeing the take is important if you want to set the hook. A
sinking line is better to blend into the color of the water so that it does not spook wary
fish.

These three items make up the essential components of your fly fishing equipment. Once
you have purchased these you can begin looking at the accessories you need to get you
out on the water.

As anglers we spend a great deal of time mulling over the comfort and fit of waders, boots, trousers and every item in our fishing regalia. When it comes to the fly fishing vest, we often look at the
number of pockets and forget to check how the vest fits.

NICE L L BEAN FLY FISHING VEST SIZE LARGE    US $15.00

Fly Fishing vest Orvis XL includes goodies    US $31.69

MENS WOOLRICH FLY FISHING VEST KHAKI TAN MEDIUM    US $19.95

Columbia Sportswear Mens M Khaki Fly Fishing Vest PFG    US $29.99

Columbia Fly Fishing Vest XL NEW    US $15.00

Near Mint Garcia Fly Fishing Vest One Size Fits All    US $5.90

Pflueger 22 pocket Deluxe Fly Fishing Vest Size M    US $24.99

Fly Fishing vest    US $1.25

WILLIAM JOSEPH RIPTIDE Fly Fishing Hip Fanny Pack Vest    US $78.00

Columbia Fly fishing Vest Ms Large Great condition    US $17.00

View Page:   1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9

Powered by PHPBay Pro

Just relying on size is not
enough. Fly fishing vests come in all weights, materials, and patterns. We need to consider where
and when we will be using the vest and make our choices based on these issues.

A vest becomes tiresome very quickly if it falls around your knees
because it stretches too much, or bangs and rattles with each step you take. Try on the vest before you buy it. Does it have some padding or at least some support on the shoulder and neck area?

This is where you will feel the stress of added weight after a few
hours fishing. If you can, add a few bits and pieces to the pockets and check how it all sits. Remember that mesh is cooler but will stretch more than other fabrics and adjust the fit for that.

Types of fly fishing vests

Modern fly fishing vests come
in all shapes and sizes. Like your other fishing equipment, buying the best you can afford makes sense. Notice that the best is not always the most expensive. Yes there are the yuppie vests out there designed to convince other anglers that there is an expert in their midst. At the end of the day though, the vest isn't what catches the fish!

If you spend most of your time wading as you fish, it makes sense to buy a short wasted vest that keeps your equipment out of the water. If you fish in severe weather, a vest that allows
you to wear several layers of clothing underneath is the right choice for you.

For those who fish from floating armchairs or from boats and inflatables, there are fly fishing vests that double as PFD's. Chest vests are great when fishing small streams and rivers when access is difficult. (It's easier to disentangle yourself from the front than to find yourself hanging from a branch that has threaded through the back of your vest.)

In the end, the type of fly fishing vest that you choose will largely be based on personal preference. Comfort, durability, fit, and the ability to carry all that you need are the main
considerations for selecting a vest that will see you through several seasons of fishing.

I can't guarantee that you will catch more fish by wearing a fly fishing vest, but you are less likely to fall over a net that is hanging from a D-ring on the back of your vest. A wallowing fisherman impresses neither the fish, nor the neighboring angler!

Some basic information on fly fishing rods will help you make the right choice. Selecting the correct fly rod is the first step in having a great fly fishing experience. The correct rod will be matched to the type of fishing you do as well as your casting style.

VINTAGE FISHING LURESABU SPINNARENFLY ROD SIZEL S    US $9.99