Fly Fishing Basics

If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of fishing beyond the sit in a small boat and throw your live bait type, we’ve got the solution for you.

Fly fishing is one of the most fun and relaxing activities to do whether you’re on vacation or just in your day-to-day-life. This historic type of fishing has now grown to become a fishing community favorite with exceptional fly fishing bait techniques, fly fishing locations, and required permits for the activity (see below).

In this blog, we’re going to go through our fly fishing basics, to help anyone who is just getting into the sport find their place!
 

What is Fly Fishing?

Fly Fishing is a beloved type of fishing activities that uses a lightweight lure to catch fish. It differs from traditional fishing due to the casting motion. Also, when fly fishing for trout, fishermen are traditionally standing in the water.

You can also fly fish in virtually any water – salt or fresh. The type of fish you’ll catch will differ based on the water you’re in, however, this makes the activity more fun as you learn the different types of species. Trout and salmon are typically found in fresh water, whereas triggerfish and striped bass can be found in salt water.

The process is done by using a variety of fly fishing equipment and casting a specialized weighted line in order to attract and hook a fish. To learn more about that, see our previous blog post of the best types of “bait” for fly fishing.
 

Fly Fishing Basics You Need

Whether you’re a seasoned fly fishing professional or a brand-new fly fisherman, it’s always best to know the basics of what you’ll need. Experts might already have this equipment, however here’s a reminder of what you’ll need before you head out on the water!

• Fly Rod & Reel - A fly rod is not like your traditional fishing pole. Often made of graphite, a fly rod is very long and flexible, which is optimal in its design as its primary function is to bend when it is cast into the distance.
• Fly Fishing Line - Unlike traditional fishing lines that are lightweight and only weighted down by the bait, fly fishing has a weighted line that is used to propel a fly through the air and land in the desired vicinity.
• Wading Boots - Because fly fishing is done while standing directly in the water, large wading boots are required to make sure your feet, legs, and torso are covered. Especially in areas where the temperature is colder, these wading boots, also commonly called, “waders,” will provide comfort and temperature protection against rocks and chilly waters.
• Fly Floatant - A fly Floatant helps keep your fly from sinking and thus keeping it dry, allowing it to sit high on the water while it drifts down.
• Fly Box - A fly box is where you store and organize your flies. Inside, there are individualized pockets where you can attach your flies.
   

How to Fly Fish: The Basics

While we could write an entire blog post itself on how to fly fish, we’ll stick to the basics here and give you a summary of how to fly fish. For additional help, contact one of our fly fishing experts who can help you with an in-depth lesson!

After you’ve connected your fishing line to the fly, we first recommend practicing outside of the water to get an idea of how to cast. Practice getting your precise wrist and arm movements correct in order to transfer the optimal amount of momentum.

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with casting, head out onto the waters and give it a try for yourself! Use the downstream momentum of the water to keep the fly floating in a natural direction. If it starts dragging, you’ll know it’s time to cast again.
 

Do I Need a Permit to Fly Fish in Cherokee?

While it varies from state to state, when fly fishing in Cherokee Enterprise Waters, or in the Qualla Boundary, a tribal permit is required.

Don’t have one yet? Don’t worry, it’s easy!  Simply review our fishing rules and regulations code and purchase a permit before your next fly fishing adventure; permits can be daily or special use.
 

Plan Your Fly-Fishing Adventure in Cherokee, North Carolina!

Ready to take on the open water and try out a new, fun activity? Start here, in beautiful Cherokee, North Carolina! Filled with rich history and stunning, scenic views, Cherokee is the perfect place to forget your worries and start a new fly fishing family tradition!

To learn more about fly fishing in Cherokee or to get started, please contact Fish Cherokee today!