Blog Post #3: How to Fly Fish

Fly Fishing

Other than spearfishing I have an interest in other forms of fishing such as fly fishing which is prevalent in Utah. At Utah State University there is a river known as the Logan River that runs right by the campus. I met someone at the local sports store and he was kind enough to take me out fishing. We started at the lowest part of the river and we focused more on the casting and floating the fly.

When you are first starting out it is important that you have all the right equipment because without the proper tools it can be even more difficult to catch a fish. You will need a fly rod, fly reel, floating line, leader, flies, waders, boots, a net, and patience.

The first step once you have your rod set up and you begin approaching the river is to find a spot where the current slows down usually behind a bend or rock formation.

Then it is important not to spook the fish so one must slowly wade out into the water without causing too much disruption.

The third step is to pull out some line and let the fly float down stream to load up for your first cast.

Once the line and fly is loaded with tension down stream, you can give your rod a hardy flick at the desired spot and mend your line so that the fly floats true. It is very important to give your fly a natural presentation which comes with practice.

As the fish takes the fly you bring the rod straight up to set the hook, fish on!

The fish is now hooked and it is important to maintain a decent amount of pressure on the fish but not enough to rip out the hook, this comes with practice and messing around with spool tension. I tend to leave my drag very low and control the tension mainly with my hand, incase the fish makes any sudden jerks or jumps.

After the fish has tired itself out it is time to bring in your catch so you get your net in the water and bring your rod way above your head. By doing so the fish should come to you and be ready to scooped up.

Success, you have caught your first fish! It is important to keep the fish in the water to ensure it makes a fast recovery and is ready to reenter the current.

I hope this information will help you on your way to becoming a fly fisherman and it is always important to respect nature and to never discard trash in the river.

Image of me fishing in French Meadows

#bears #fish #boating #lake

How to cast a fly rod:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAyj9KF_MQE