Any Fly Fishermen?

[Joe S.]

Is anybody out there a fly fisherman? If so, how often to you get to go? What are your key stomping grounds? You don't have to say, but I'm curious what your favorite fly is.

[dinosaur]

I fly fish a few times a year. Mostly I spincast for bass and bluegill or tightline for catfish.

There isn't much in the way of good trout fishing in my immediate area so I fly fish for bluegill and bass. I also fly fish in June for carp. This is the time of year when the mulberries fall into the water and the carp love them. You make a fly that looks like a mulberry, dip it in fruit juice and fish. Carp are incredibly strong swimmers and have terrific stamina. If you hook a ten pound carp on a fly rod, expect to be at it for quite some time. It's awesome.

[Frederico]

I've recently started fly fishing in Maine with a colleague who is teaching me. I've only been twice, both times to small trout streams. I'm still learning about flies - so will follow this thread with interest.

I have learned two things - the style of fly depends on the bait. Mayflies and caddis need different flies - but don't ask me !

Secondly - flies are expensive !

[Joe S.]

Maine has some superb fly fishing opportunities. There is much to learn and you are fortunate to have a friend willing to share and teach. Stick with it!

[Joe S.]

Flies ARE expensive. You might consider learning to tie your own. It's a great thing to be doing in the winter in preparation for fishing season.

[Lorax]

I used a fly rod for about 98% of my fishing before I moved to WI. Now it's at a pathetic 15%. I really should do more.

I used to help run exclusive trout fishing clubs for a private landholding company where I used to work. I would fish myself downstream or between those and other clubs at least 5-6 days a week after work.

[Bambi]

Sounds like you like fly fishing quite a bit better than spin fishing? What is it about fly fishing that you enjoy so much? Does it have anything to do with the kind of fish you're after?

[gray wolf]

i fly fish the black river about 50% of the time ....10% of remaining time i fly fish the salmon river .. both are in north central ny ... i have 155 arces with a great trout stream in it and fish there once in awhile ... 8'6" white river 5 wght ...with a mayfly after the drop .... fresh rainbow for dinner .....

[mikepond]

I would love to learn but it seems like it might be far out of reach. I am not all that coordinated to start with and I know there is a knack to it, but unsure if its something that I would catch on quickly with.

[dinosaur]

Originally Posted by Bambi

Sounds like you like fly fishing quite a bit better than spin fishing? What is it about fly fishing that you enjoy so much? Does it have anything to do with the kind of fish you're after?

Not really. It's just different.

And flies are expensive. But not really. You don't have to buy live bait or procure it yourself. And you don't have to rebait your hook.

Also flyfishing allows for pinpoint accuracy casting and, even with a wetfly, allows you to watch the fish strike.

Aesthetics are another factor. Flyfishing is quiet and gracefully serene, until the fish rises and explodes on the topwater.

It's a worthwhile experience.