Fly Fishing

Fly Fishing Book

What are some good tips for a long time bass angler starting to fly fish for trout?

I have been a long time tournament angler for black bass. But starting out (as of last week) fly fishing for trout, casting is ok, but it seems that is one thing that will always need improvement. Would love some tips on books, vids, what flies to use when, ect. I live in MT and have acess to great fishing, so any clues to a good beginner spot would be a plus, and let me know if you want to go fishing!

The internet is full of resources. Coming from a bass background, you may find the most similar and most forgiving set of flies to use are streamers like wooly buggers and clousers because nymphs and dries require more experience to drift without any drag. You can use a heavier tippet like 4x and tie on a lightly weighted bugger, then just work it like you would a jerk bait, jig or plastic worm - up down or across they all work. Try stripping line at different speeds or just letting the fly hang in the current when it gets below you and slowly strip it back. Use a short leader and tippet no more than 8 feet until you get comfortable. Even 6 feet can catch fish if you have trouble getting the cast down with a longer leader. Pay special attention to areas under riffles and it's hard to go wrong. Use these in larger water if you can (2 feet deep is getting into good streamer water), then once you become more comfortable with casting a fly rod you might hook up with a fishing buddy to show you how to drift a dry fly. At that point you'll just need to slow down your cast and watch how others fish - there is little substitute for direct observation. Nymphs are probably the most difficult because if you use an indicator you'll get a lot more wind knots at first, and without one you really have to be familiar with presenting blind, drag-free drifts.

Fly Fishing Book

Product Description
Wild Water's new 4 piece Switch rods. This is a redesigned version of the popular River Run two piece single handed rods. The blank has been changed to four pieces to make traveling with the rod much easier. The foregrip and extension butt have been lengthened slightly to accommodate two handed casting. The stripper guides arrangement has been improved by adding a third, larger stripper. The blank taper is redesigned so the four piece design maintains the same comfortable, in-control, power feeling as the original 2 piece River Run rod. The reel seat slide ring has been changed to provide a firmer lock on the reel foot with less tightening required. The reel seat is anodized in a Gunsmoke color and is in a Downlocking configuration. Rod Specifications: Line Weight: 6 or 7; Rod Length: 11 Feet; Number of Sections: 4; Rod Case Length: 38 Inches; Flex: Mid; Rod Action: Medium-Fast; Rod Material: IM8; Rod Weight: 5.8 ounces; Grip: Switch; Rod Blank Color: Dark... Click Here For More Info >>
Wild Water Fly Fishing 6/7 Weight 11 Foot 4 Piece "River Run Series" Switch Rod

Product Description
Product Description The FL-Premium Series was designed to combine the look, feel and performance characteristics of many of the most expensive reels you can buy, at an entry-level price. Low price not withstanding, even the most discriminating experts have agreed the FL-Premium is a truly great, sensible fly reel. Housed in corrosion-resistant aluminum, ideal for saltwater. Unmatched high-performance center line disc drag system. Generous line capacities. Three-way adjustable drag alarm. Simple left-to-right hand spool interchange requiring no special tools. Rugged, reliable, and virtually maintenance free. An expensive reel in disguise... As the saying goes, "you can't judge a book from its cover," and you can't judge a fly reel by what's outside. The Premium Series fly reel proves it. The heart of the matter is what's on the inside the drag mechanism. A drag system that out-performs many of the most expensive reels at a fraction of the cost. The Premium'... Click Here For More Info >>
- Fly Logic Premium Series Fly Fishing Reel FLP567/C 5 - 6 - 7 Line Weight Aluminum Disc Drag Flyreel With Pouch | Charcoal Color

Redfish Fly Fishing

Fundraising carp tourney set at Gifford Springs May 21-22
Fly fishing has long been associated with a certain … “tweediness.” For years it was considered an upper-crust pastime, a diversion for the wealthy or the eccentric. You know, the pipe-smoking folks who use words like “summer” as verbs.

Fishing in the Florida Keys Islamorada

Fishing in the Florida Keys: Islamorada

At the southern most part of the United States, located between the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Florida Bay are the Florida Keys. Not only is this one of the most amazing places to vacation, with breathtaking scenery, sandy beaches, and crystal clear water; but there is an abundance of fish that inhabit the warm waters of the Florida Keys. Here, the enormous variety of fish species ranges from Kingfish to Permit. You can go off shore fishing for the big game such as Tuna and Marlin, but the Keys are also ideal for flat fishing on the Florida Bay for Bonefish or Tarpon. Each of the Keys is acknowledged for a special type of fish. Although the species of fish available may vary in different seasons, there is always something to catch year-round in the Keys.

Islamorada is one of the Upper Keys, and known as the sport fishing capital of the world. There have been more record-breaking fish caught here than anywhere in the world. Unlike anywhere else on the Atlantic Coast, the waters of the Gulf Stream are only a few miles offshore. These waters carry hundreds of different species of fish, as well as all warm water game fish that swims in the Northern hemisphere.

Fly fishing is becoming increasingly popular in Islamorada, catching many different types of fish. Some of the most popular fish caught on fly are Spotted Trout, Blue Marlin, Tarpon, and Bonefish.

You may choose to go offshore fishing in the breathtaking blue-green waters of Islamorada. Here you will find fish such as Sailfish, Dolphin, Marlin, Kingfish, Yellowtail, Wahoo, and Mutton Snapper.

If you fish in the beautiful backcountry bays, you will likely find Redfish, Snook, Sea Trout, Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, as well as many other fish. The waters here are calmer and shallower than that of the ocean. This allows for the use of flats and poling your boat.

Although you are likely to find most species of fish year round, there are certain seasons when specific fish are most abundant in the area.

Winter

Cobia, Grouper, Kingfish, Sailfish, Tuna, Shark

Spring

Blue Marlin, Dolphin, Snapper, Tarpon, Yellowtail, Wahoo

Summer

Tarpon, Dolphin, Yellowtail, Blue Marlin

Fall

Wahoo, Kingfish, Grouper, Bonefish, Snook

There are many fishing tournaments throughout the year in Islamorada. Some of these tournaments include; Captains take “the Cup”, Islamorada Swordfish Tournament, Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge, George Bush Cheeca Lodge Bonefish Tournament, and Hog’s Breath King Mackerel Tournament.

There are hundreds of fishing charters, boat rentals, and guides located at the many marinas, to familiarize you with the best areas to fish. The different fishing charters include backcountry flats fishing, light tackle fishing, party boats, and offshore fishing. Because of the importance of local knowledge, it is best to choose fishing charter captains from locals who are familiar to fishing in the area.

About the Author

Kristy Bateman is the writer for Earl's Blog on SellUrBoat.com.. These articles are unique and helpful to anyone interested in learning about boating and or fishing. Please visit SellUrBoat.com to view a variety of unique articles from Kristy. SellUrBoat.com is The Simplest Solution to Buying and Selling 'Ur' Boat.

Redfish Fly Fishing

Fly Fishing For Panfish

looking for bluegill and panfish jigs?

company in cincinati area that makes fishing jig called "rufus jr. jig fly "

Check gander Mountain. i think I bought afew there last summer. They are great jigs and the fish just love them! I have to go to the Gander Mountain here and I'll check for them. If u can't find any send me an e-mail and I might be able to send some to you.

Bluegill Sunfish - A Favorite Species of American Freshwater Fish

Bluegill sunfish are the most widely distributed panfish in North America. They are members of the same family (Centrarchidae a.k.a.Sunfish) as the largemouth bass. These colorful fish are well adapted to living in ponds, lakes, streams and even brackish water. Bluegill are often the primary food source for largemouth bass and other predators.

They rarely exceed 1 pound with 1/4 - 1/2 pound (7" - 9") being typical. Bluegill usually have a black spot or blotch near the base of the soft dorsal fin and a black flexible tip on the gill cover. The back and sides are dark green or brownish. The breast and undersides may appear yellow, red or orange. Males in the breeding season usually have a dark red to mahogany colored breast. The sides of the fish usually display a series of vertical bars, more prominent in smaller fish. The gill covers and chin are bright blue, giving the bluegill its name. Bluegill sunfish art is extremely popular mostly because the fish are so attractive and well respected.

Bluegill Sunfish Techniques

Most people started fishing as youngsters for bluegill and other panfish. Bluegill, ounce for ounce, fight as hard as any freshwater fish. Bluegill are fun to catch and make excellent table fare. Catching bluegill is common event throughout spring, summer and early fall. Some hardly anglers fish for bluegill while ice fishing.

Anglers target bluegills primarily with ultralight equipment or fly gear. Leaders in the half-pound to 3-pound class are common. However, new nearly invisible fluorocarbon lines and leaders allow for slightly stronger line to be used.

Baits for bluegill include crickets, mealworms, waxworms, redworms, earthworms, nightcrawler chunks and maggots. When using worms, be careful not to put too much bait on the hook, as bluegills are accomplished thieves. Some anglers target larger bluegills with live minnows or other large baits.

Bluegill lures include crappie jigs, ice tick jigs, microjigs, small spinnerbaits, small spinnerbaits, small grubs, small tube jigs, and miniature soft plastics. Fly fishing works great for catching bluegill. Anglers use a dry fly, nymph, panfish popper flies or terrestrial flies. Popular terrestrial fly patterns include crickets, grasshoppers, foam spiders, and ants.

How To Clean Bluegill Sunfish

1. Scale the fish with a fish scaler or dull knife. While holding the fish with one hand, use the tool to remove all scales. You must run the scaler or knife from tail to head in order to get the scales off. The skin should be smooth when all scales are gone.

2.Cut the fish's head off. make the cut at the back of the fish's gills. Cut through at this point.

3. Cut from the belly back to the vent, avoiding all organs. Remove all organs, saving the fish roe if any is found.

4. Cut off the tail and fins.

5. Rinse the fish and place on ice immediately.

About the Author

The author is an outdoor enthusiast, web designer and writes content for several outdoor websites including Chincoteague Island Virginia, Virginia Saltwater Fishing and Fresh Seafood.

Fly Fishing For Panfish

Streamers Fly Fishing

Fly Fishing: Types of Flies

Types of flies are also known as patterns. What exactly is being fished for and under what conditions determines the type of fly that is used. There are many different patterns that are used in fly fishing. They can be broken down into five main categories: wet, dry, streamer, nymph, and terrestrial.

Wet Fly

As the name inplies, wet flies resemble insects that are under the water. This includes dead insects that are coming up and emerging from the water. This type of fly can also be made to look like bigger water creatures such as leeches or crawfish.

Dry Fly

Just as with the wet fly, the name also gives away what it is imitating. Therefore, a dry fly is meant to look like an insect that stays on top of the water. While fishing with a dry fly it is usually necessary to dry the fly several times.

Streamer

This is a type of wet fly but it is meant to look like an injured bait fish. Streamers are larger than the other types of flies. They are used to catch larger fish that are predatory.

Nymph

A nymph is another type of wet fly. It is supposed to look like an insect that is coming out of its cocoon or its larval state. A majority of fish like to eat insects in this state.

Terrestrial

Terrestrial flies can be used as wet or dry flies. They are made to look like larger insects that mistakenly jump into the water and drown. These can be either made to look like an insect desperate to free itself from the water or as an insect that has already died and is simply sinking into the water without movement.

In fly fishing there are many different types of flies. While each type of fly has its own type of fish it is supposed to catch, many anglers will use any type of fly that they think will work on the fish at a certain time. The wet flies, dry flies, streamers, numphs, and terrestrials are the most used and most popular types of flies and will help bring a fisherman a lot of success.

Decisions can be critical when you are deciding on your fly strategy. Is there a color to prefer for the morning as opposed to the evening? Will those trout really even notice the difference between your flies or will any do when twilight hits? Should you tie your own or have professionally produced flies? Have fun and experiment and eventually you will find what suits your style of fishing and the type of fish you are trying to catch.

About the Author

For more tips and information on fishing, please visit http://www.fishingtipsabcs.blogspot.com and become a better fisherman.

Streamers Fly Fishing article

Product Description
One of the greatest challenges of learning to fly cast is the issue of finding room! Learning to form a proper cast usually requires significant space above, behind and in front of you. Additionally, learning to single-hand spey cast or roll cast is downright difficult without water. The new Echo Micro Practice Rod was designed to minimize the need for space without sacrificing rod action. This miniature rod comes with everything you need to practice casting -- the two piece, four foot rod, highly-visible line, yarn leader and even a small pamphlet on basic casts. The rod is perfectly balanced with the line and leader to force you to exaggerate the proper motions required to form a good cast. When used on a carpeted surface, you can practice roll casts and single-hand spey casts. The Micro Practice Rod acts and feels just like a standard fly rod, so transitioning from the practice rod to a real rod is simple. All this can be done from the comfort of your c... Click Here For More Info >>
Echo Micro Practice Fly Rod

How To Fly Fish
ON THE FLY: The truth about fishing licenses, 05-09-10
They’re back. Stripers are in and falling for all the usual flies, lures and bait.The weather is finally cooperating so there’s no reason not to get out and fish. I’ve been out scouting, doing a lot of hit and runs just to find out where they are feeding.  I stop at a spot with a 7 foot spinning rod, a Fin-Nor spinning reel with 8 or 12 pound test and soft lures.  If the stripers are there, I ...

How To Fly Fish

Product Description
Product Description The FL-Premium Series was designed to combine the look, feel and performance characteristics of many of the most expensive reels you can buy, at an entry-level price. Low price not withstanding, even the most discriminating experts have agreed the FL-Premium is a truly great, sensible fly reel. Housed in corrosion-resistant aluminum, ideal for saltwater. Unmatched high-performance center line disc drag system. Generous line capacities. Three-way adjustable drag alarm. Simple left-to-right hand spool interchange requiring no special tools. Rugged, reliable, and virtually maintenance free. An expensive reel in disguise... As the saying goes, "you can't judge a book from its cover," and you can't judge a fly reel by what's outside. The Premium Series fly reel proves it. The heart of the matter is what's on the inside the drag mechanism. A drag system that out-performs many of the most expensive reels at a fraction of the cost. The Premium'... Click Here For More Info >>
Fly Logic Premium Series Fly Fishing Reel FLP345/C 3 - 4 - 5 Line Weight Aluminum Disc Drag Flyreel With Pouch - Charcoal Color

Fly Fishing Tippet

Fly Fishing for Bass- Do You Think You Could Handle the Excitement?

Fly fishing for bass is one of the most popular types of fly fishing there is. The thrill of your first time to catch a largemouth bass, can be counted as one of the most thrilling fishing experiences you will have. Most anglers will use spinning or casting reels to catch bass. But if you really want a challenge, then you need to try fly fishing for one.

Fly fishing for bass certainly will not win you any fishing tournaments. But it is the most challenging way you will find to catch bass. It is far removed from most fly fishing techniques, such as fly fishing for trout in a mountain stream.

The rod used is heavier than those used for catching trout. Rods for bass fishing are usually 8 weight, a rod such as this is required because this type of fish takes some landing. Also the fly used would be larger as well. The leader used for this type of fishing would be shorter as well, 4-6 feet, with the tippet at around a 8 pound test line.

The best way to catch your first fish, is to cast your line from a boat towards shore, making sure it lands underneath trees and there branches. A technique that is known to work well, is simply letting the fly rest on the water for a period of time, then snap it across the water quickly, this is a great way to get the attention of any bass that are there. You will find that the popping sound of this action will attract the fish and then you can make your first strike.

Some of the best fishing you will find is in smaller bodies of water. Small county lakes and slow moving creeks are perfect for fly fishing. Slow moving creeks are a favorite, this is because can use the shore to cast from and position your fly in a favorable position, such as, beneath trees.

The thing about this type of fishing, is the fight the fish will put up, will make it seem far larger than it is. A two to three pound bass caught will seem and feel like a six pound fish. All this adds to thrill and excitement of your new fly fishing experience.

Fly fishing for bass is not only an exciting experience, it is also fun to do. So next time you are thinking of going fishing for bass, put aside your normal rod and reel, then give fly fishing a try. You will not regret doing so and will have the most thrilling fishing experience that you will ever have. Also just think about the tales you will be able to regale your friends with, about your new found experience. So are you up to this challenge?

About the Author

Greg F Williams runs a website about fly fishing. Did you find these tips on fly fishing useful? You can find out a lot free information more about the art of Fly Fishing Mastery by going to Fly Fishing Tips.

Fly Fishing Tippet

Fly Fishing Rods

I am looking to buy my husband a nice-but affordable-fly fishing rod for his birthday.?

We are both avid fishermen, but really only farmiliar with spinning rods, fishing for bass and pike. We just got a little place on a trout stream and I want to learn how to fly fish with my man. Any suggestions for two people just starting out? I don't want to invest a fortune because we still want to fish the lakes a lot too.

The one thing you didn't mention was your budget. What you and I consider "a fortune" is probably not similar. But, on we go.

Your best bet will likely be a beginner's combo that can now be had from a number of places for not more than $200 and probably much less. Walmart has them, but I would shy away from them -- I've seen a couple from Wally's and they're just not that great. Most sporting goods stores have them, too. Look around at the stores near you and see what you can find. You'll probably see prices ranging from $75 to $125.

If you left it up to me, this is what you and your hubby would get:

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20431-cat604907_TGP&id=0075491321246a&navCount=1&podId=0075491&parentId=cat604907&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=9IS&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true

A couple of my boy scouts have gotten Cabela's combos like this in the $120 - $175 price range over the past few years (not sure if this is the exact combo -- they've have several). They're quite good for the price. The problem with the REALLY cheap combos is that they're not good to learn with, you get discouraged, then you quit. These Cabela's rods are very responsive, the line and reels are halfway decent, and I've seen several boys really get the hang of casting with them.

For a trout smaller trout stream (fish 4 pounds and down), I'd go for a 4 or 5 weight. For a bigger river and perhaps some lake fishing, a 6 weight will do.

I can tell you this, though. Although the combo above will be okay for getting into fly fishing, I'll bet that once you start, you'll almost immediately want to move into some more serious equipment. It really gets into your bloodstream.

Fly Fishing Rods

Fly Fishing Rivers

Campgrounds, camping and fly-fishing rivers in California, got any INFO?

What is your opinion on any campground in CA?

I have stayed at many RV parks in California that have camping included.
It does sound like you are looking for something more basic, however.
What you need to take is the least you require for your stay.
This link below is to a real good website, it pays particular attention to fishing:

http://www.camprrm.com/California%20Campgrounds.htm

You can make reservations on site too.

I would recommend the Rock Creek Campgrounds, it is a complex of 14 campgrounds with individual and group sites along Rock Creek.
These sites are located near Crowley Lake, just south of the town of Mammoth Lakes in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. And they are pretty primitive, you should love it there:

http://www.rockcreeklake.com/camping/

The Best Montana Fly Fishing Rivers

There is no other place on Earth that is better known for its superb fly fishing than Montana. Montana boasts many fly fishing rivers that are quite simply a cut above the rest and an outing to one of these rivers is sure to bring in some trophy sized trout and create some memories that will last a lifetime.

The biggest problem is though, with so many great fly fishing rivers to choose from in Montana, how do you know which ones are the best? While you really cant go wrong in Montana when it comes to fly fishing there are three rivers in particular that are known by fly fishermen everywhere and are consistently getting rave reviews by those who are looking for keepers and those who simply enjoy to catch and release. These three magnificent Montana rivers are as follows:

1. The Flathead River: The Flathead River in Northwestern Montana is the first river that those in the know will bring up every time. Trout fishing in the South Fork of the Flathead is outstanding for two main reasons. The first is the fact that Montana officials have set limits to the fish that can be kept and many fly fishermen therefore struggle to find trout that are small enough to keep. The second reason for the great fly fishing is the fact that the river is somewhat remote and sometimes getting to that perfect spot is a job in itself. However, the fish are not as pressured as they are in other rivers and therefore are very susceptible to many different types of flies.

2. Clark Fork River: The Clark Fork River is located in Western Montana and is, in one word, exciting when it comes to fly fishing. Because the river is very long running at over 300 miles, the lower parts hold great habitats for fish to thrive in and thus provide a great place for fishermen to fish. Fly fishing and regular fishing will be greatly rewarded when a visit to the Clark Fork River is enjoyed.

3. Yellowstone River: The Yellowstone River is in Southwest Montana and originates of course in Yellowstone National Park. Because the Yellowstone River stretches such a big portion of Montanas landscape fly fishermen never really struggle with catching trout, but rather where they will begin and which trout they will count towards their limit. Add in the unbelievably beautiful scenery that surrounds the Yellowstone River and it is a true cant miss combination.

While there are many other rivers in the state of Montana that will produce many strikes to your fly fishing rig, these three will offer fish time and time again. All three also offer a good variety of fly fishing guides who can be hired by you or your group to ensure that you are led to the perfect trout hot spot.

No matter which one of the three Montana Rivers you decide to visit you are sure to get your fly fishing fix well taken care of. Just as other states are known for certain activities, when it comes to great fly fishing, there is nothing that compares to the wonderful rivers of Montana.

About the Author

Get lots more information on Montana fishing lodges, guides, and resorts at MontanaFishingToday.com.

Fly Fishing Rivers

Product Description
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Fly Fishing For Steelhead

Tips on Fly Fishing for Steelhead Trout

Steelhead trout are very elusive and acrobatic fish.  They are normally found in tributaries of the Great Lakes and on the West coast.  If you plan on going fly fishing for steelhead trout, you will need to know a few things beforehand.  This article will give you a few tips.

Water

These fish prefer to be in relatively slow water.  You can often find them near the shore.  You'll likely have the best luck casting near the shore initially, then going out to the middle runs.  It may be best to fish out of a boat if you want to cover as much water as possible.  This will give you access to the slower and deeper parts that you can't get to by wading.

Waders

Speaking of wading, you'll want to wear a good pair of waders when fly fishing for steelhead trout.  Since it'll probably be cold, you'll want waders made from neoprene.  In addition to providing much needed warmth, they also provide some buoyancy.  They should be at least five millimeters thick.

Rod

The ideal fly rod to use for these fish is sleek and light, yet firm and powerful.  These fish can get to be pretty big, so strength is important.  You also need to make sure that your rod is long enough so that you can properly drift the fly.  It's also a good idea to check your hooks periodically to ensure that they're still sharp.  They can come into various objects throughout the day and become dull which will reduce your chances of landing one of these fish.

Casting

Most anglers are taught to cast downstream when fly fishing for steelhead trout.  You can use either sinking or floating lines.  They will strike virtually anything that you put in front of their nose.  However, you'll probably have the most success using sand shrimp or cured steelhead or salmon eggs.

About the Author

These are a few tips on fly fishing for steelhead trout. If you're pretty new, there are many things you need to learn about the fly fishing basics. So, click here now to pick up some general fly fishing tips to get you started.

Fly Fishing For Steelhead article

Fly Fishing Guide
East or West, fly-fishing opportunities abound
You don't have to travel far from Sioux Falls to try your hand at fly-fishing. Panfish and bass are often the target of fly fisherman on nearby lakes Alvin and Lakota, and the new Family Fishing Park on the corner of 12th Street and Tea/Ellis Road has been providing action for anglers pursuing trout in the recently stocked lake. But if a road trip is in order, the Black Hills is great place to ...

Fly Fishing Guide