Fly Fishing Gear
What Is The Best Gear For Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing gear and how to choose it may, at first, appear a simple task. Your choice of essential fly fishing gear, such as rods, flies, reels etc., will have a major bearing on your level of success.
However your choice of the other fly fishing equipment that is available may not lead to success or failure but it will have a profound effect upon your enjoyment of the sport and your state of mind, so it could really be said that there is an indireect effect.
A simple mistake of choosing the wrong vest may lead to you being uncomfortable. You will therefore be irritated and therefore less able to concentrate on the task in hand. In the same respect you should ensure that your waders do not leak and that the soles are of the correct material for the location.
Fly Fishing Gear & Safety
I personally feel that, out of all the fly fishing gear available, it is the soles of your waders that should be considered as the most important. It is simply a case of safetly first. Sometimes it can be extremely dangerous to slip when up to the waist in water. Think about it for a moment and then consider how dangerous it is to wear waders with felt soles on an inclined bank that is wet, muddy and slippery, in such a case it would be far safer to have rubber cleated soles or studs (please be aware of the dangers of wearing studs while crossing a road!). Felt soles waders are best suited to use in an area where there are slippery underwater rocks.
Like all good anglers you will survey the location you are about to fish. While you are doing this keep safety in mind. Many times, while fly fishing on an open loch, I have witnessed individuals who insist and bringing every piece of fly fishing equipment, in their possession, with them to the waters edge. It is common to see many accessories attached over the shoulder or around the neck with a loop of elasticated material. I would hate to think that they may approach a small burn in the same manner as there is a very likely danger that the accessory will get caught, maybe on an overhanging branch or the bank, imagine the kick when it's grip is lost and the item thumps your back.
One Final Fly Fishing Gear Tip
If you are planning a day out fly fishing were it is likely that you will be bringing part of your catch to the table consider how you will transport the fish. Simply throwing your 2lb trout or prize salmon into a plastic carrier bag, and thrown into the boot of the car, is just not on and certainly not likely to keep the fish at it's best. I have seen the cooler box growing in popularity but I detest them, those brightly colored monstrosities!
I much prefer using the traditional fly fishing gear and, for me, nothing will ever beat the wicker creel. When I retain fish I line the creel with freshly cut fern, which is usually found nearby, and simply place the fish upon it and keep it cool until I reach home. Give it a try one day and see if you too notice and improvement in the flavor of your catch.
Other articles about fishing in Scotland and fly fishing that may be of interest:
Fishing In Scotland
An in-depth look at the popular pastime of fishing in Scotland.
Fishing Seasons In Scotland
An introduction to the seasons of Scotland, the weather and the fishing season for trout and salmon.
Choosing A Fly Fishing Rod
A short article about fly fishing rods that may be beneficial to both beginners and seasoned anglers.
What Is The Best Gear For Fly Fishing?
A look at the equipment and accessories available and what should be considered for best personal safety.
Fly Fishing Waders: A Look At Breathable Waders
As technology moves forward anglers take advantage of every edge they can get I believe these waders should be considered essential.
Essential Equipment: Fly Fishing Flies
A look at the fly fishing fly, how it works, fly fishing fly patterns and much more.
A Look At Some Salmon Flies
A selection of images showing the trusty salmon fly. To view enlargements just click the thumbnails.
A Look At Some Traditional Fly Fishing Flies
A selection of some of the many traditional flies available to the modern angler.
Wild Salmon Vs. Farmed Salmon
A brief look at the unfair battle of the wild Atlantic Salmon against the corporately supported farmed salmon.
Choosing Salmon Fishing Gear
A look at some of the many things you should consider before and during the purchase of salmon fishing gear.
Salmon Fishing on the River Girvan
A look at salmon fishing on the River Girvan and the wonderful Blairquhan Estate.
Sea Fishing in Scotland
A look at the sport of sea fishing including a few very important tips
Saltwater Fishing
A collection of general saltwater fishing articles not directly relevant with Scotland but somewhat applicable.
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