Bass Fishing Information

Paul Winter asked:


Fly-fishing is a form fishing that uses a different method of catching the species that live and breathe under water. The method is referred to as angling. This method is used to target mostly trout and salmon. Recently the target list has extended to fish like bass, pike and carp. Historically fly fishing an ancient method of catching fish that originated in Scotland and Northern Europe.

There are many and various types of flies being used in fly-fishing. In modern fishing methods there are various types of fish being used to catch the designated target. The following is a list of types of fish; dry flies and emergers (for example midges or stoneflies), nymphs (for example mayflies or eggs and worms), streamers wet flies (for example buggers and leeches), saltwater flies (for examples sailfish and marlin), bass and panfish flies (for example crawfish and eels), salmon and steelhead flies (for example Atlantic salmon flies).

Certain gear is needed when fly-fishing. The first item on the list is fly rods, in which size and usage is important. It is important to match the fly rod with the fly line according to weight. Matching the weight of the two items is important to have positive casting results. The size of the fly rods can be anywhere from #0, #1, #2 and are used for the lightest trout and panfish rods up to powerful and heavy #16 rods for the largest saltwater game fish.

Another item needed for fly-fishing is a bamboo split cane. This allows for a better performance in the freshwater trout fishing situations. Synthetic fly rods are usually used and offer a greater versatility, stiffness, power and performance than a bamboo split cane. The advantages are that they are less expensive and require less maintenance. Finally, fly reels are manually operated. Although in recent years, more advanced models have been developed to deal bigger fish and more demanding situations. These models increase the drag and retrieval performance.

Fly-fishing is an ancient method of catching fish. It is more demanding because you are limited to the types of fish you can catch. You need the appropriate gear to catch the trout or the salmon. Today’s modern techniques used in fly-fishing have been developed to meet more challenging situations, such as bigger weight of the fish. These modern advancements prepare the fly fisherman to successfully meet his quota by using the methodology appropriately.

There are many popular locations for fly-fishing mostly in the Northern United States and Canada. Alaska is another popular place for the activity. Some places in the United States are Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Montana and California are just a few places.

Paul Winter asked:


Distinctly different from any other method of angling, fly-fishing is a style angling that has a history dating back to ancient times. While some fisherman may use a rod and reel to sit back, relax and perhaps catch a fish; the fly fisherman wades into the water and uses his honed skills to lure the fish to bite. Fly fishing has several distinct characteristics that make it different from any other style of angling, the main being the technique and bait used, and the special fly fishing equipment the angler uses.



Fly-fishing has developed, as a standard, a variant rod and reel that works a bit differently than the traditional closed or open spool reels. Fly rods are light and flexible, and usually made of fiberglass or other composite materials. Fly rods are made to different lengths, so when you choose your fly fishing equipment, it’s best to know what species of fish you’re after. Traditionally the fly angler seeks to catch trout or salmon, but other species of fish have been known to be responsive to the fly angling method.



The fly rod has another unique feature, that is, the type of fishing line a fly rod uses is usually thicker than any other type of angling line. It’s the weight and thickness of the line, combined with the weight of the fly, that gives fly-fishing it’s unique casting techniques.



Although the fly rod is an important piece of fly fishing equipment, it’s the type, weight, and color of the artificial fly that affects the art of angling for the fly fisherman. Flies fall into three different categories, surface floating flies, partially submerged flies, and below surface flies, each having it’s own specific style of casting.



Fly fishing equipment can be expensive, but don’t worry, the fly rod is usually the most expensive purchase, the flies and fishing line are relatively inexpensive. Often, experienced fly fishers will eventually learn how to create their own flies to use. This gives your fly fishing experience a custom feel to it, and can cut down costs dramatically. If you’re a beginner, finding a mentor can be the best way to learn about and get the feel of each article of fly fishing equipment.



So, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a seasoned angler or just interested in learning about fly-fishing, try it out! Fly-fishing is a sort of ‘antique technique’, passed down from generation to generation. With the right knowledge and correct equipment, fly-fishing is a hobby that can last a lifetime.

Chad Venturanza asked:


Clueless about fly fishing?

Me too!

I have been really curious about this sport for some time now. I’ve seen it done countless of times.

Tried it. Failed.

People have endlessly and tirelessly, with their utmost patience and understanding tried to rub off some fly fishing skills on me - but to no avail.

I have resorted to reading, for now. I decided that whatever I can’t do, I might as well LEARN - even just in theory. It helps. I think of my self right now as “A work in progress”.

Let’s all learn the basics. DEFINITION OF TERMS!

A brief definition about some terms I need to know about fly fishing.

What is Fly Fishing?

Fly fishing is an ancient and distinct angling method, developed primarily for salmonids (trout and salmon, mostly) and now extended to other species such as pike, bass, and carp, as well as a wide range of salt water species.

Fly casting is gripping or holding a fly rod correctly and to adopt the correct stance to maintain comfort and balance. The most basic rule to casting is based on the way a clock looks. Your head points straight up to 12:00, your cast (the tip of your rod) should go back to 10:00 and then forward to 2:00, releasing your line at the end of the forward motion. It is a common mistake to dip the rod below those two positions and almost always ends in a line tangle!

Angler. (Does that have anything to do with Math? I hate Math!)

That would be YOU silly! Someday, IF you learn how to fly fish, you will be called an angler. A person catching fish or shellfish with no intent to sell, this includes people keeping the catch or people that practice the “Catch and Release” method (highly recommended).

The Essentials - If you don’t have a complete list of these, you’re NOT Fly Fishing!

Fly Fishing rods are long, thin, flexible rods sometimes made of bamboo, but more recently from man-made materials. Fly rods tend to have large diameter eyes (or guides) spaced along the rod to help control the movement of relatively thick fly line. To aid in the freedom of movement required to skillfully cast with a fly rod, there is usually little to no butt (handle) extending below the fishing reel. Although fly rods are mainly used for casting from fixed positions, they can also be used for trolling for fish.

Fishing Reel is a device used for the deployment and retrieval of fishing line using a spool mounted on an axle. They are used in conjunction with the fly rod and are attached to the base or handle of the rod.

Fishing line is any cord made for fishing. Important parameters of a fishing line are its length, material, and weight (thicker, sturdier lines are more visible to fish). The refractive index is also important—lines with a refractive index similar to water are almost invisible to fish. The most important parameter in deciding what line to use is its strength. This is the amount of weight the line can hold before snapping. One must balance the trade-off between strength and visibility.

Flies as Bait? Are you kidding?

Flies or Artificial flies are constructed — “tied” onto a hook with thread, fur, feathers and other materials — in sizes and colors to match naturally occurring food or simply to excite a fish. And to add more confusion, the names of flies: Wet and dry flies, nymphs, scuds, eggs, streamers, steelheads, bass flies, salmon flies,and saltwater flies.

You will be considered a well equipped fly fisher if you bring waders, wading boots, vest net, polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes and see through the reflection on the water, a hat for the harsh sun, sun block and bug dope (bug repellant) - if you don’t want to be eaten alive by bugs before you even catch a fish!

Armed with the stuff I read, I went about to experience Fly Fishing without even going near a body of water.

Wondering how?

A site that sells fly fishing products - with pretty pictures too! - Riverbum.com

Verlyn Ross asked:


A fly fishing rod is the most important piece of fly fishing gear that you can buy. Fly Fishing rods are long, thin, flexible fishing rods, combined with heavy line, designed to cast a fly. A fly usually consists of a hook tied with fur, feathers, foam, or other lightweight material.

There are a number of considerations that you should evaluate in selecting a fly rod to meet your individual needs.

You should carefully research the materials that are used to produce fly rods. Manufacturers typically make fly fishing rods out of fiberglass or graphite. First, let’s look at fiberglass. Experts and beginners alike can use popular fiberglass fly rods in most fishing conditions. By contrast, graphite fly rods are generally more expensive than fiberglass. And, lightweight graphite fly rods typically allow more accurate casting.

Let’s examine the actions of different fly rod types. Slow-action rods - you can reel in small lightweight fish with these flexible rods. Slow-action rods have the most bend, making them difficult for beginners to control, but offer great accuracy for short-range casting. Medium-action fly rods - beginners usually find medium-action fly fishing rods easy to handle. Fast-action fly rods - Stiff fast-action rods bend at the end of the rod and do not have a lot of give.

Shorter fly rods generally have less action than longer rods because they generate less torque when casting and reeling. Use short fly rods, measuring less than eight feet, in tight fishing situations where trees, bushes, stream size, or other objects will restrict your movement. Medium-sized fly rods, between eight and nine feet, provide the action, casting control, and strength you may need. You can use medium-sized rods in most fly fishing conditions. Large fly rods measuring more than nine feet - make the ideal choice for longer casting and the pursuit of big-game fish.

Additional Design Details of Fly Fishing Rods:

Fly rods come in a wide variety of line sizes, from size #0 rods for the smallest freshwater trout and panfish up to and including #16 rods for large saltwater gamefish. Fly rods tend to have a single, large-diameter line guide (called a stripping guide), with a number of smaller looped guides (aka snake guides) spaced along the rod to help control the movement of the relatively thick fly lines. Fly fishing rods are long and light and combined with heavy lines that provide the casting weight. Fly fishers use the weight and design of the line to cast the fly quickly and efficiently, without reeling in the line between casts. Fly rods are designed to let you sense a strike, set the hook, and fight and land the fish. Fly fishers speak of a “soul” in a rod, a quality present in all great fly rods.

As indicated earlier, instead of a weighted lure, a fly rod uses the weight of the fly line for casting, and lightweight rods are capable of casting the very smallest and lightest fly. Typically, a monofilament segment called a “leader” is tied to the fly line on one end and the fly on the other.

A rod is usually also classified by the optimal weight of fishing line or in the case of fly rods, fly line the rod should handle.

To prevent interference with casting movements, most fly rods usually have little or no butt section (handle) extending below the fishing reel. However, the spey rod, a fly rod with an elongated rear handle, is often used for fishing either large rivers for salmon and steelhead or saltwater surf casting, using a two-handed casting technique.

Note, that it is important for fishers to experiment with several different types of fly fishing rods to decide exactly what fits their style and ability.

For your comfort level, fly fishing needs to be your supplier’s passion in addition to it being their business. If possible, develop a personal relationship with him/her. They can be immensely helpful to you.

Fly fishing normally happens in the most beautiful natural surroundings where fly fishers often find themselves; a lonely meandering stream in the forest, a peaceful river deep between the valleys, or a tranquil blue lake somewhere up country. What a wonderful sport!