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Everything you need for fly fishing

Everything you need for fly fishing

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IN THIS ARTICLE:

Fly fishing is different enough from regular fishing to warrant its own category. It’s a level-up, and it adds a degree of difficulty in a variety of ways. Some people relish the challenge, while others are content to fish as they’ve done since they first learned. In short, fly fishing attracts a certain breed of anglers — it’s not for everyone. If you want to step up your game, you need different gear and need to know why they’re important for your success.

Why is fly fishing different?

For every angler you ask you get a different answer, but fundamentally, it’s in the cast. The rod is longer and lighter than a typical rod and the fly is much lighter than the lures and bait you use in other types of fishing. Additionally, the line is heavier. In essence, when you’re fly fishing, you cast the line rather than cast the bait. This can be difficult for beginners and requires a bit of practice to get it right. Some anglers who’ve been at it for many years still have trouble. It’s about presentation and getting the featherweight fly to mimic the behavior of an insect on or in the water, depending if you’re dry fly fishing or wet fly fishing.

Essential pieces of gear for fly fishing

While there’s other gear you may want when fishing, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, fishing pliers, a landing net and more, this list of items is specific to fly fishing. It includes the basic essentials for the activity.

Best fly fishing gear

Redington Path II Fly Fishing Combo

If you’re new to fly fishing, this combo comes with a rod, reel and line. You can’t make a mistake by purchasing a noncompatible element. It is portable, has medium-fast action and offers smooth casting. It comes in four pieces for easy transport.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Wild Water Standard Fly Fishing Combo Starter Kit

This comprehensive fly fishing set is lightweight and has a 9-foot rod made of black graphite. The kit includes a large-capacity fly box, nine flies, line and a tapered monofilament leader. It’s best for freshwater fishing, such as rivers, streams, lakes and ponds.

Sold by Amazon

Martin Complete Fly Fishing Kit

If budget is the most important thing, this combo kit should top your list. It lets you enter the world of fly fishing for a reasonable price. The rod comes with a reel, line, leader, a six-piece tackle set and a booklet that walks you through getting started.

Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods

Frogg Toggs Men’s Hellbender Stockingfoot Chest Wader

With this chest wader, you can fish wherever you please. It’s waterproof, breathable, lightweight and abrasion-resistant. The neoprene booties have gravel guards and lace hooks. There’s a large chest pocket along with two zippered hand-warmer pockets.

Sold by Amazon

Field and Stream Men’s Fly Fishing Vest

This stylish khaki vest has a front zipper closure, numerous pockets for small essentials and a hook-and-loop rod holder. It’s available in sizes small through XXL.

Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods

Fishingsir Fly Fishing Flies Kit

If you’re new to fly fishing, you should try everything. With 120 pieces, this kit lets you do that. You get 45 dry flies, 45 wet flies, 10 streamers, 15 nymphs and five emergers. Also included is an ABS fly box with a silicone seal.

Sold by Amazon

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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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