FS Digest

Hey everyone I’m debating if I should get a fly rod or a traditional spin reel for my first pole. I do plan on eventually getting both but I’d like to get proficient in one first ( fly fishing appeals to me more ) Also for fly fishing, can you catch pretty much all types of fish or are you limited ? Any suggestions and answers are appreciated !

--
by Bubba_Gump56

flyguy Loc: Lake Onalaska, Sunfish Capitol of the World!

You do what you think you should do, but think you should start with a spinning rod. They are much easier to use efficiently. If you start with a fly rod you are going to scare all of the fish away just getting your fly out there. No, you can't catch any fish with a fly rod. They don't work very well bottom fishing.

fishyaker Loc: NW Michigan (Lower Peninsula)

Good advice from FlyGuy. It really boils down to what you like to get out of your outdoor experiences when it comes to fishing. Initially, depending on the waters you will fish, the odds are in your favor to catch more fish with a spinning set up. The longer you fish throughout your life, the more it becomes less about catching and more about "enjoying" the time you spend on the water. Catching fish is a bonus, and you will discover this all in good time.

OJdidit Loc: Oak Creek Wisconsin

I agree that a spinning gear will present more options to catch more fish. Save the fly rod until you become proficient at fishing. Good luck!

bapabear Loc: Blaine, Washington

Definitely spinning, but also get a bargain priced garage sale fly rod if you have bluegill around. when they are hitting the surface it is a great way to learn to fly fish. After thrashing the water, they will be back shortly so you can do it again. Short casts with a very small popper or sinking fly can be done with most any weight rod, though a size 6 or7 are great starter rods, usually available and the most forgiving when learning to cast. The blue gill will both teach you to set the hook and fight the fish while enjoying a great fishery. Just a word of advice. Do not cast to the rise. cast to three feet over it. The fly will gently fall and a lot of mistakes will be eliminated. Have fun

Able Man Loc: North Coast (Cleveland, Ohio)

If you have to choose, I too, would suggest a spinning outfit. If you can afford both right now, make sure you get some unbiased advice on which flyrod/ reel you ought to buy & take it out in a field and practice casting.

Lil Al Loc: Central Coast California

Fly guy has given you the best advice for that situation

FinFisherman Loc: Born in Ohio - 40 yrs Florida- Clearwater,Fl

You are right fly but other than a flounder most fish come up. There are weirdos that even fly fish tarpon.

Able Man Loc: North Coast (Cleveland, Ohio)

I sure enough have read that, in a magazine, years and years ago!!!

dryb Loc: Sharon CT

Im not a good fly fishermen.I like to fish when no one is looking . Thats just me so when you don’t do it right you’re by your self

fishyaker Loc: NW Michigan (Lower Peninsula)

In my opinion, fly fishing has been shrouded in some sort of mystery over the years that can seem intimidating when you are beginning to try it. That is what kept me from it for a while in my early youth. I thought "you must have an incredible skill to do it". It seemed so ethereal, and that you must drink scotch and smoke a cigar during or after it in order to succeed and join an elite club.

Then one day, after watching some people do it proficiently, I realized that is was actually a very simple basic movement and coordination of rhythm with special timing. Yes...different than just casting a spinning rod with a weighted lure attached...but nevertheless...a casting motion. Sure there are numerous variations to the physics of the basic way to propel a fly, but with some practice and diligent effort, you will be doing it all with great ease!

Please do not lash me for suggesting that fly fishing was or is a snobby way of fishing! I have great respect for the history and heritage of the process in all of it's manifestations and incarnations. When you really get immersed in it, fly casting is a very rewarding and satisfying way to fish. Books have been written on the philosophy of it all...but in reality, it is just one more way of adding enjoyment to your passion of fishing!

StlhdSlayer Loc: Portland, Oregon

FinFisherman Loc: Born in Ohio - 40 yrs Florida- Clearwater,Fl

Get yourself a fly rod reel try it you might like it.

Bud369 Loc: Cape Canaveral, FL

Agree with getting a spinning reel first. You’ll get instant gratification by catching fish right away. Fly fishing requires a longer learning curve with proper gear, casting, presentation, fly hook variations, etc.

FinFisherman Loc: Born in Ohio - 40 yrs Florida- Clearwater,Fl

He can catch fish the first time he uses a fly rod. I did. True it was a 4" sun fish and it was a live grass hopper but that was the first rod I held. Once he uses a fly rod he's hooked!