Fly fishing might as well be known as the “sportsman’s art.” Unlike bottom fishing and trolling, there is more to it than memorizing procedures. You can’t simply bait the hook, cast the line, and wait. There’s a technique that isn’t so much learned as it is inherent in the fisherman; some might call it “poetry in motion” with a flick of the wrist and a periodic yank of the arm. And if the technique is pure art, so too is the strategy behind it. A successful trip begins when you select the fly fishing lures – or flies – to tie at the end of your line.
Flies may be classified as imitative or attractive. The names mean exactly what they imply: imitative flies mimic food items found appealing by fish, while attractive flies induce aesthetic impulses with an array of bright colors, textures, and shapes. Aside from this distinction, flies can also be recognized by the manner in which they’re used. Dry flies are meant to be fished at the water’s surface, imitating small insects such as flies and grasshoppers. Emergers should be fished partially underwater, while and wet flies are entirely submerged. The latter two categories represent such things as worms and minnows. Most flies may be used in either freshwater or saltwater.
Flies are generally inexpensive, ranging anywhere from $1-$8 apiece. Most fishing outfitters carry sets or cases of flies that may include dozens of pieces, and this often represents the more economical way to go. Cabela’s offers a multitude of fly kits, from their 84-piece Trout Assortment to their more manageable 12-piece Trophy Trout Assortment. Pricing depends on the level of intricacy; some flies might appear to be assembly line manufactured, while others are handcrafted and hand painted. Cabela’s offers dry flies, emergers, and wet flies.
Orvis is another place to look for flies of all varieties. Most of their dry flies are available for under $2, yet they have the appearance of finely crafted lures. One model – The Royal Wulff – is bathed in brown, white, and red strands and convincingly mimics a mayfly. Meanwhile, one of their wet flies – The Egg Sucking Hornberg – gives the impression of a small feathered insect with orange and red strands interwoven with white and brown speckled feathers. Orvis also offers fly sets classified by fish type, such as the Trout fly set and the Striper fly set. These are quite a bit more expensive than generic fly kits, but they are very comprehensive.
Most outfitters arrange their fly fishing lures according to fish type, making it easy for the inexperienced fisherman to select the most appropriate fly. Before you make a purchase, you’ll need to be informed of the kind of fish you’ll be targeting. Always purchase a few more flies than you think you’ll need, as they often get lost in strong river currents and in the swift bite of a fish.
More information about about fly fishing and fly fishing lures………
Fly Fishing Tackle | Field & Stream | Striper Surf