Step one in getting started fishing on fly rod and reel is selecting an entry-level rod with its length and weight being identified – for instance 9 foot #6 rods can easily be identified this way.

Select a floating line to match the rod. If fish are near the surface, this would be optimal; otherwise an intermediate or sinking line might be better suited.

Rods

Fly rods are flexible sticks used for fishing with bait or insects on lines attached. A fly rod may consist of one piece or multiple sections connected together with hinges that can fold together. Multi-piece rods typically feature alignment dots on their sections for easier assembly; when assembling them together make sure that all these dots line up so the guides align properly with the reel.

Graphite is the material most often utilized when it comes to fly rods, though some anglers prefer fiberglass or bamboo rods for their feel. When starting out fishing, quality graphite rods with actions suitable for trout or similar fish would likely be best suited.

Line classes (or rod weights), also referred to as rod weights, range from zero through fourteen. While lighter rod classes might work for trout and panfish fishing on small rivers, higher classes might be more suited for salmon or steelhead fishing on larger bodies of water.

Reels

Purchase of an appropriate reel is an investment; therefore, look for something sturdy. Cheap models bend easily, rendering them useless when faced with that once-in-a-lifetime catch on your line.

A quality reel should feature an intuitive drag system that’s simple and effortless to use and maintain, as well as satisfying clicks that get your blood pumping when that 14-inch Colorado River cutthroat snags your fly.

Most reels are designed for left and right-handed anglers to use with equal ease, and more expensive reels often utilize machined from bar-stock aluminum rather than casting from mold, making them lighter and more resistant to saltwater corrosion. Furthermore, their drag system may feature superior components and their design may include disc-drag systems or cog-and-gear mechanisms like the Redington Rise.

Lines

Fly lines typically measure around ninety feet in length. Their design includes a thin section in the rear that thickens to form a head at its end where your leader is attached; this thin line is known as running line while its larger portion in the front allows you to make powerful long distance casts.

Floating lines are designed to float freely on the water surface for presentation of dry flies or poppers, or when used for sighting strike indicators on the water surface during nymphing. Weight forward taper lines (often denoted with WF on their packaging) have longer belly sections with heavier tip or head weightings for casting in windy conditions while double tapers feature identical tapers on both ends, which allows for precise shorter casts.

Flies

Flies are artificial insects used to mimic natural prey and attract fish to fishing rod and line. There is an enormous variety of fly patterns designed for specific environments or fish species.

Backing is an equipment exclusive to fly fishing that serves a specific function: providing 150+ yards of reserve line in case a fish runs away from your reel.

Fly lines come in various styles and configurations; most anglers start out using a floating line that remains on the surface throughout its length. Other choices may include intermediate lines and sinking lines as well as weight forward taper and shooting head lines.

Accessories

Specialized fly fishing tools make life easier, including cutting line and knots, keeping flies fresh, and tying them. New anglers may feel intimidated by all of the fancy gadgets found at guides’ pegboard walls or fly shops; however, most fisheries can be approached successfully using only basic patterns and equipment.

Magnetic net release holders keep an angler’s net secure during landing fish so they can grab it easily when it’s time to release their catch. A micro trash container should also be considered essential as debris such as tag ends can harm the environment or end up in fish mouths; there are specially-designed lanyard-style containers dedicated to anglers; however, empty pill bottles will suffice.