FS Digest

My dad was telling me that he used to do some fly fishing and that peaked my interests a little. I have some left over Christmas money and I was wondering how to get into fly fishing and tying up my own flies?

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by jhendee

Spiritof27 Loc: Lincoln, CA

A journey of 1000 miles begins with one step. That's how you do it. I say one of two ways. Either find yourself a good friend who can get you started, or depending on where you live, go down to your local fly shop and tell them you're interested in learning. They will be more than happy to get you started because they want you to become a customer. If there's an Orvis near you, they are very good, offering free classes and they'll even take you out to a river and let you try it all out. Beware. Keep your investment as low as possible when you start out. Used fly rods are everywhere - they belong to people just like you who were curious and found the entire thing just too daunting for one reason or another. If you get into it and you find you can't live without that $800 Sage rod, you can make that purchase at that time.

Flytier Loc: Wilmington Delaware

I found Cortland to be a usable and very affordable option for starting. I'm now at 13 rods later, but that's where I started too many years ago

Salesrep Loc: Maryland

Take a class or two before spending any money.Also think about what species you plan on Pursuing.Saltwater fish requires a heavier action rod, where freshwater species require a lighter action rod.
Fly tying will come later and just another step in the enjoyment of this new adventure
Salesrep

Dendo Loc: Napa, CA

Also note that Cabelas (Bass Pro) has some outstanding and inexpensive package deals on beginner rods, reels, lines and a few flies, etc. Certainly way enough to get your feet wet (so to speak). Look for local clubs or Park Districts that host intro lessons local ponds or in parks. Try to get tied in with a certified instructor or instructor candidate to get your moves down early.

Dendo Loc: Napa, CA

Sorry if this comes thru twice. As above, find a local club or instructor to get some exposure and get your moves right early. Then hit up Cabelas or BassPro for one of their starter packages. They are very inexpensive and get u a variety of good beginner gear. Stick it out with that gear as long as u can, then buy more top end stuff later, hopefully skipping that mid ground where folks spend a lot of money trying different gear.

MSHohman Loc: Nebraska

Find a local fly club in your area chances are they will more than happy to help without you spending any money. Once you gain some experience take the next step in buying your set up. By than you will be getting right fly rod for your target fishing.

Iteachflyfishing Loc: Rockaway Beach Missouri

The best way is to find someone like me who teaches Fly-fishing and supplies everything rod reel ect.. then if you don't like it your out no cost of a rod. But if you want a decent rod for a good price look on Amazon under Matchcatch.

trlittle Loc: Chico CA

I would join the local fly club, or go out with a guide

FixorFish Loc: SW Oregon

I went on their site. Looks like some very reasonable pricing for the goods offered. Thanks, Iteach.