While reading an excellent article on fly fishing from, Trout Lore, the author of the article quotes H.P. Wells from, “Fly Rods and Fly Tackle”. The quote is:
1st. To place the fly within reach of the trout without alarming it.
2nd. To handle it so as to simulate a living creature, and one tempting its appetite.
3rd. To do this in such a manner that if the fly is touched, the trout shall infallibly be fastened.”
The essence of fly fishing in 3 simple lines. Easily said or written but in practice it can be very difficult to accomplish. Another way of thinking about these caveats is that fly fishing is 2 parts technique (the first and third points) and 1 part knowledge/insight about the fish we are after. I realize this is nothing ‘earth shattering’ but clarifying these things should make me a better fly fisherman. Being new to this sport (coming up on year #2) I have been seeking to improve my newly-found passion. Practically, I will commit to the following:
- Increase Practicing Opportunities – I do not need water to practice casting. A deck or front/back yard (even in the snow) can be used practice.
- Increase My Knowledge – Making time to make observe fly cycles and hatching dates on my home waters. Then using this data to tie my own flies that match what I have just observed. Reading. Watching. Asking. Then, I will refer back to point #1.
Would you like to see how I am doing? I am starting a NEW fly fishing blog called Trout Waders. Bits and pieces of content will be added to this NEW site while it is under construction for a January 15 launch date. Trout Waders will:
- Present content of my fly fishing adventures in Huntsville (Ontario) area
- Provide local hatch information (as best as I can figure out to present this info)
- Information on gear, equipment, books, DVD’s, other fly fishing blogs
- Fly fishing quotes
- Definitions of terms, knots, and casts
- Fly Tying information and photos – as I am currently learning this process
- Provide a medium for visitors to share the experiences, photos, and techniques
If you are new to fly fishing you will feel comfortable at Trout Waders. I still do not remember the names of some of the knots or casts I use. Those pesky little knots still form on my leader.
I am learning as I go -warts and all!
Bill Anderson
Muskoka Outdoors
