Fly Fishing Women

Fly fishing women wear the same gear, they cast the same way, they tie their own flies; fly fishing
women are found on any waters where the sport is practiced. There are a few well-known
names amongst them. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, until her death, was an avid
fly fishing woman.

Organizations that are specifically designed for women who fly fish are to be found in
almost every state. There are women guides, women authors of fly fishing books, and
women can tell tales of fishing woes along with the best of them. Fly fishing is definitely
not an exclusively male sport.

How do novice fly fishing women get started?

If you want to become one of the fly fishing women, it is not hard. Join a fly fishing club
and learn the art from other anglers. If you are shy about being a novice in mixed
company there are women only groups around, or find a friend to go with you.

There are also women's fly fishing classes held at some community colleges. Private
organizations sometimes have at least one female instructor. Your local sports store
should be able to help you find a suitable class or group.

Fly fishing women as guides

The process of finding fly fishing women who also a guide is the same as find a male
guide. Do your homework by checking out her experience. Ask for references from other
customers.

Does this guide spend a lot of time on the waters she is going to take you? Quite frankly,
I believe that the sex of a guide doesn't matter a hoot as long as he or she knows his or
her stuff.

If you feel inhibited by working with a male guide, ask for a woman by all means. Just
remember that a guide is no guide at all if he or she is unable to give you a meaningful
experience on the water.

Equipment designed for fly fishing women

The manufacturing community is at last recognizing that fly fishing women make up a
decent percentage of the general angling world.

Gone are the days when women had to manage with over-sized and ill designed clothing.
Manufacturers are making waders, boots, and fishing vests for female anglers. They are
not just scaled down versions of men's apparel, they fit the female shape.

However, that does not mean that all women's fishing apparel will fit perfectly. You need
to go into a sports store that stocks the item you are looking for and try it on.

Yes, you can look a bit foolish, but if you intend spending a lot of time in the water,
waders that don't fit comfortably are going to be a problem. You can get them custom-
made if you are willing to pay extra (up to $100 is not unexpected).

Depending on your shape, you might find that men's waders fit you better than women's.
Again comfort on the water is what you are looking for, so buy the outfit that is right for
you.

The same thing applies to boots. I like to buy bootless waders. I purchase the boots
separately, trying them on with the thick socks I wear while fishing. A pair of boots
bought without room for the socks will make you miserable.

Glamour and fly fishing women

Sorry ladies, this is not a Miss (Mrs.) America sport. Fly fishing women are not often
seen in color coordinated, straight out of the salon, fashions. Muted tones of muddied
greens and browns are the thing in this sport. Fish are less likely to be spooked by these
camouflage colors.

Fly fishing clothing is designed to be practical and efficient. At the end of the day, form
fitting waders just make you darned uncomfortable. They also make it really hard to bend
down, or kneel, or even scramble up the river banks.

Remember that perfumes can transfer from your hands to the flies you are using. Fish are
attracted by fishy smells, but really shun Chanel #5 and the like.

Books written by fly fishing women

Fly fishing women have written books and articles that deal with all aspects of the fishing
craft. You'll find information on everything from buying your first rod to tying your own
flies.

Although the information in these books is mostly generic, that is, suitable for any fly
fishing person, there are some issues that are especially important for women.

When choosing a rod, for example, some women might find it more suitable to go with a
lighter weight or one that has a smaller grip. That being said, there are women who can
handle heavier rods with remarkable expertise. Go with what you can manage
efficiently.

Reading a few articles and books written by fly fishing women will give you a unique point of view on the angler's art.

The number of fly fishing women is greater than ever. Industry resources are increasing
in response. When your significant other announces that he is off on another of his nights
out with the boys, go pack your rod and tackle and head out for the nearest stream. You'll
likely find you're not alone.