10 Reasons Fly Fishing Is Easier Than You Think

Fly fishing is defined as a type of fishing that utilizes artificial ‘flies’ to lure and catch fish. It may seem intimidating, but now’s the time to put your fears to rest. This popular recreational sport isn’t nearly as complex as you believe, though the casting technique is different than what you’re likely used to.

Check out these 10 solid reasons why fly fishing is easier than what you’ve heard or been told:

1) You Can Learn To Read The Water

Reading the water you’re standing in or near isn’t that complicated. For example, bubbles indicate that trout, one of the main fish types caught by fly fishing anglers, are feeding. Rocks, fallen trees, and overgrown banks on your water source are common fish hangouts, as they help protect fish from predators. Drop-offs, or sections of deeper water, are also favorite haunts, as are seams, or areas where a fast current meets a slow one.

2) Using The Four Fly Types is Actually Quite Simple

Learning different fly types is a simple process, as there are four basic options:

• Dry Flies: Imitation flies that floats along the water’s surface.
• Nymphs: Subsurface flies, nymph flies that are imitations of insects that dwell on the river bottom.
• Emergers: These are flies fished just below the surface, or a little deeper.
• Steamers: Steamers refer to imitation minnows, crawfish, leeches, and other fish yummies.

3) There’s No Wrong Time or Place for Fly Fishing

There’s essentially no wrong time or place to fly fish. Do so in the open ocean, your favorite Colorado river, mountain stream, lake, or creek—as long as you’re following national and state rules and regulations, where and when you want to fly fish is completely up to you.

4) Casting is Easier Than You Expect

Mastering how to cast is a straightforward process, with timing being one of the most important elements. Keeping your wrist locked is also imperative to proper casting. Working with local fly fishing experts is ideal for learning how to cast the right way, and the experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly team at Fly Fishing Outfitters is one of your best options. Any of our guides will show you how to cast in very little time. For optimal results, use lines that are about 35 to 40 feet in length. Longer cast lines take more time to learn, and aren’t usually necessary anyway.

5) The Gear Needed is Minimal

Fly fishing gear is quite basic, and includes the fly rod, reel, and line. Fly fishing anglers employ different knots in conjunction with the type of line they’re using, but as long as you can make at least one knot you’ll be in good shape.

6) Beautiful Scenery Adds to the Experience

Want another reason fly fishing is easier than you think? You’re surrounded by the beauty of nature! Whether fly fishing on a mountain lake or the Colorado River, you’ll get to enjoy the stunning landscapes. This definitely eases any stress you associate with fly fishing!

7) Learning How to Fly Fish is Quick

Most learn the art of fly fishing in a month or less. It’s entirely possible to master the technique in a day, as long as you’re working with an experienced angler.

8) Fish Are Plentiful

The image of a fisherman sitting out on his boat in the middle of a lake for hours on end isn’t part of fly fishing. Once you learn where fish feed and otherwise hang out, it’s unlikely you’ll have any issues catching them. Trout, bass, and other fly fishing catches are found in abundance in Colorado’s rivers, making it very possible to score a great “catch of the day” your first time out.

9) It’s Always Easy to Learn When You’re Having Fun with Friends

Learning fly fishing with others adds to the fun and lessens the stress, while giving you a chance to “compare notes.”

10) Practice WILL Make Perfect (or close to it)

As with most things, as long as you’re diligent about practicing your fly fishing technique, you won’t have any problems. That’s the main thing about learning to fly fishing—practice! It’s not that fly fishing is ridiculously difficult; it’s just that it takes dedication. Once you fully realize that, you’re well on your way to becoming a successful angler.