Fishing is an exciting topic that has a unique place in some people’s hearts. Anglers are typically dedicated to this topic and constantly look for ways to improve their fishing techniques.
If you are a beginner angler or are entirely new to fishing, there are many things that you need to learn from experienced anglers.
Several types of fishing are available, and one popular method is fly fishing. You can learn more below if you don’t know what it is.
If you have heard of it and are wondering to experience it practically, you might wonder, ‘what is a good beginner fly fishing setup?’
Look no further, as we have provided a complete guideline for a beginner fly fishing setup.
What Is Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing is a fantastic sport that can take you to picturesque natural environments. It is an angling method in which you use a weighted lure to catch bait.
The weighted lure is an artificial fly resembling baitfish or other food organisms.
Fly fishing can be done in salt or freshwater. It is mainly famous as a method for catching salmon, trout, and grayling. However, it can also catch other fish, including carp, bass, pike, panfish, bonefish, redfish, snook, and striped bass.
As a newbie, there is a lot to learn about fly fishing, but it is worth your time and effort. It might initially sound overwhelming, especially with reels, fly rods, weighted lines, and casted techniques different from traditional casting forms.
There is so much gear that you should have for fly fishing. It might sound too much initially, but don’t worry; you’ll get the hang of it soon.
What Is A Good Beginner Fly Fishing Setup?
The first thing you must consider for fly fishing is to be prepared with the correct equipment. Beginners must be equipped with essential fly fishing equipment to get out there and start fishing.
Here is a list of the essential gear you need for fly fishing.
Fly Rod
The fly rod is one of the most vital fishing gear you should have. They come in a multitude of types, lengths, and weights. Let’s look at these features individually.
Weight
The fly rod’s weight goes hand in hand with the weight of the fly line it is most suitable for. A fly rod can handle a fly line one weight above or below the fly line’s weight.
As a beginner, a 5 to the 6-weight fly rod is versatile and allows you to catch small fish quickly.
Length
The fly rod is a large lever that is there for casting. The longer your fly rod is, the easier it is to cast longer distances.
A 9-foot fly rod is ideal for beginners to cast long distances.
Type
There are different types of fly rods used for various purposes and conditions. Here are the types of fly rods available.
- Single-handed rods
- Spey rods
- Switch rods
Fly Reel
The fly reel is another vital fly fishing gear. It helps create drag that lets anglers land fish, storing and releasing the fly line.
Here are two types of fly reels:
Click & Pawl.
The classic fly reel is renowned for the clicking sound that is heard when a fish begins pulling out line. It uses a straightforward mechanical drag that any angler can rely on.
Disc Drag
It is a more modern approach to reels where it functions more like the car’s disc brakes. The system can produce a smoother range of drags that click & pawl.
Fly Line
Fly lines allow anglers to cast distances. It also lets them present their flies in natural ways. There are different tapers and types of fly lines, as given below.
Tapers
- Weight forward: The most common fly line taper gets more weight near the casting end. Therefore, it is much simpler to cast the line out further.
- Double taper: The double taper puts the weight to the middle of the fly line so that the line tapers out equally in both directions.
Level line
This is not commonly used as it is more difficult to cast. However, it is cheaper than tapered lines.
Types of fly lines
There are many different types of fly lines, including the ones below.
- Floating fly lines are the most commonly used fly lines that do what their name states, float.
- Sink tip line combines a floating and a full sink line.
- Full sink is where the complete fly line sinks at a rate stated in the box. It is excellent for fast-moving and deep water, where getting the flies deep enough to reach fish is challenging.
- Saltwater fly lines are more commonly used to cast in windy conditions as they are more manageable in such situations.
Leader,
The leader is the clear part connected at the rear of the fly line. It is typically heavyweight where it attaches to the fly line and will taper down in thickness to the point where the tippet attaches.
Leaders are generally 9 feet in length and often come pre-tapered. Most anglers prefer these leaders because of their ease of use and performance.
Tippet
The tippet is a thin line that attaches to the end of the leader and, after that, to the fly. The tippet must be lightweight for it to be able to land the fish you are after.
A thin line means there is less chance that the fish will see it. Tippets come in various sizes that are suitable for catching different types of fish.
Backing
The fly backing is a strong, thin line attached to the fly reel’s arbor. It is the first to be put on the reel and lets you fight fish that take your fly. It also allows you to pull the line out of your reel past the fly line.
Flies
The essential part of fly fishing is the flies. There are two main categories of flies; dry flies and wet flies.
Wet flies are meant to get wet and sink. Dry flies are intended to rest on top of the water’s surface.
Miscellaneous Fishing Accessories
Apart from the fly rod and reel setup, here are a few more accessories to help make your fly fishing adventures fun and exciting.
- Fly fishing net: It will make it easier to get hold of the fish.
- Fly fishing vest: It makes it possible to keep the gear near you.
- Polarizing sunglasses: They will protect your eyes from the sun and cut the glare from the water to help you see better.
- Waders: They will allow you to get into the water whenever you want.
Putting It All Together
Now that you’ve learned about fly fishing gear, it’s time to put them together. It’s a simple task that takes a bit of practice. You need to have some basic knot-tying skills.
Here’s how you do it.
- Attach the reel to the rod according to manufacturer instructions. Typically, the reel will slide onto the rod and lock in place.
- Retrieve your backing, and pull off approximately 100 feet.
- Pull off approximately two to three feet of the fly line and tie it to the backing with an Albright knot.
- Pull off another 90 feet of fly line and clip it.
- Spool the line until it gets close to the outer rim, and then trim off the extra backing. Remove the backing and fly the line.
- Tie the backing using an arbor knot. Make a loop using a braided knot at the end of the fly line.
- Attach the leader with a loop knot.
- Attach the tipper to the leader using a triple surgeon’s knot.
- Attach a fly to the tippet using an improved clinch knot.
The Basic Fly Fishing Cast
Now that the gear is all together, it’s time to move on to casting. There are many types of casts with benefits and drawbacks. Focus on a cast type based on these factors:
- Location
- Type of fishing you want to catch
- Cast the distance you wish to achieve
- Personal choice.
The most basic type of cast is the overhead cast, a foundation cast for many beginners.
The Overhead Cast
The concept behind the overhead cast is to bring the fly line above your head and behind and then cast it in front of you to the target location. Here are the steps to do it:
- Hold the rod as you would when shaking hands with another. Your thumb should be on top and pointed towards the rod’s rear.
- Pull 30 feet of fly line with the rod pointing downward and wiggle it up and down.
- Step back so that the fly line extends out before you.
- Lift your arm until the line is tight.
- Rotate your arm backward, bring the rod to a 1 o’clock position, and pause until the line forms a loop behind you.
- Then, bring the rod forward to a 10 o’clock position.
- As the fly line extends out into the water, lower your arm to lay it out on the water. Ensure the line is tight at this point.
Find The Ideal Spot
Now that you’ve got the correct gear, know how to put it all together, and know how to cast it, it’s time to find the ideal spot.
It’s more of a personal preference, and you will realize it over time, out of the experience. The best way to find the perfect spot is to ask your local fishing shop.
Another way is to join local fishing clubs and online fly fishing forums where you can learn more about fly fishing from those who have experienced it.
Here are a few must-haves in finding the ideal fly fishing spot.
- It should be close to your home so you can go there after work or on weekends.
- It should have a large open space to cast without worrying about your line getting caught up in trees.
- It should have several fishing areas so that there is less competition with other anglers.
- It should consist of beautiful scenery that makes you want to be there.
More Fly Fishing Tips
Here are more tips to remember when fly fishing:
- Allocate enough time for fly fishing. You won’t have a good fly fishing experience if you are in a rush. So, ensure you have nothing planned to spend more time on this experiential activity.
- Bring a friend along with you so that you won’t get bored. Having a partner is always fun when doing these kinds of activities.
- Give yourself ample time to get used to this fishing technique. It takes time and could get frustrating initially, but hold on because you will eventually master it.
Final Thoughts
A good beginner fly fishing setup is essential to become successful at this activity. Once you have the correct gear, set it up together, and learn how to cast, finding an excellent spot to fly fishing is essential.
Remember to follow the tips given here next time you fly fishing with your fishing buddy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Fly Rod Is Best For Beginners?
A fly rod between 8 and 9 feet is ideal for beginners.
What Is The Best Weight For Beginner Fly Fishing?
A 5 to 6-weight is best for beginner fly fishing.
What Should A Beginner Look For In A Fishing Rod?
A beginner should look for a fishing rod that is versatile, easy to use, lightweight, and inexpensive.