Fly fishing is one of the world’s most popular sports. Unlike traditional fishing which usually uses live bait such as worms or squid, fly fishing involves artificial lures to catch fish. In addition, fly fishing requires the fisherman to stand up and wade in water versus sitting down on a shoreline or in a boat. This type of fishing is called angling, because the method uses an angle, or hook attached to a rod in order to catch fish.

Fresh and salt water fly fishing are both common, although most people tend to fly fish in fresh water streams or lakes. This form of fishing is known all over the world as the best method for catching salmon, trout, bass, and pike, just to name a few. Some say fly fishing first began during the Roman Empire when villagers would fish off the shores with lures made of feathers. In today’s modern world, fly fishing has become a sort of art. Handmade lures are a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. The sport really took off in popularity during the 1920s when fishermen would flock the rivers of the Catskill Mountains and Lake Erie, where some of the best fishing could be found.

Unlike traditional fishing methods, fly fishing differs because of the way the line is cast. The fisherman casts out the line instead of focusing on the lure. By casting the line as far out as possible and letting the lure do the work, fish naturally want to bite onto it, resulting in a catch. The natural movement of the line combined with lifelike lures often yields a very good, fruitful catch. There is a certain amount of technique involved in fly fishing, mainly the movement control of the casting itself as well as the manufacturing of the lure. A good lure is often the key to getting a catch.

There are several elements of fly fishing tackle necessary to enjoy a day out fly fishing. First, a good rod of a specific weight and length is needed. Most rods for this type of fishing are specially designed and are longer than traditional fishing rods. Fly reels designed to store fly line are required in order to get the best cast possible. Specially manufactured lines designed to be light yet sturdy are used for fly fishing. Perhaps the most important piece of tackle is the lure itself. These lures can be made of a number of materials, and many experienced fishermen like to make them by hand. These artificial flies are designed to resemble a fish’s natural prey such as worms, insects, crustaceans, and even birds and reptiles.

Fly fishing is truly a sport for those who have a desire to enjoy the outdoors and have skill and patience. It takes time to learn the sport of fly fishing, but the rewards are many. For more information about fly fishing, please refer to the following websites:

• Fly Fisherman – This website provides a wealth of resources for the fly fisherman.
• Fly Fishing 101 – Some helpful tips for the beginner.
• What is Fly Fishing? – The basics of fly fishing as well as some photos.
• National Parks – Some information about fly fishing from the National Park Service.
• Introduction to Fly Fishing – An overview of the sport of fly fishing.
• Video – This video explores fly fishing on the rivers of the Catskills.
• Confidence & Fly Fishing – Discover how one woman gained a new sense of confidence through fly fishing.
• Trout Fishing in Jersey – Insight into the trout fishing climate in the state of New Jersey.
• ABCs of Fly Fishing – This simple guide provides photos and info. about the basics of fly fishing.
• Fly Casting – This helpful rundown explains the basics of fly fishing casting.
• Fly Fishing Courses – Find out more about how you can take a course in fly fishing.
• Fly Fishing for Carp – The basic techniques and more on fly fishing for carp.
• Fishin Secrets – A fun website with loads of resources about many aspects of fishing.
• Strategy Tips – Informative article containing some strategic tips for fly fishing.
• Fly Fishing Tips – This website contains several helpful tips for fly fishing.
• Trout Fishing – Everything you need to know about trout fishing.
• American Museum of Fly Fishing – Home page for the American Museum of Fly Fishing.
• Fly Fishing History – Some articles and notes on fly fishing of ages past.
• History of Fly Fishing – More about the history of fly fishing, from a conservation standpoint.
• Tackle Guide – This web page will help guide you through the needed tackle for fly fishing.
• Gear – Find and purchase high quality fly fishing products here.
• Reviews – This site offers reviews on gear and much more.
• Fishing Gear Overview – What to look for when purchasing different pieces of fly fishing gear.
• The Fly Shop – Your one stop shop for fly fishing trips, gear, resources, and more.
• Washington Fly Fishing – A resource guide for fly fishing in Washington State.
• ABC of Fishing – An online community of fellow fishermen.