Top 3 "Must Have" Fly Patterns

Please forgive me for the boisterous title of this blog. I understand there are literally thousands of patterns to choose from, varying in effectiveness depending on location, weather patterns, time of year, etc. The flies I am going to list below are my personal "must haves". These are my bread and butter flies, and they have served me particularly well in the trout streams of the West. Although mainly trout flies, I have also had success using these patterns on a variety of freshwater species including smallmouth bass, perch, sunfish, and whitefish (don't hate - it's a native fish!). The patterns I have chosen are a murder's row of simplicity, matched with an undeniable power to catch the attention of even the most stubborn fish. If you don't have them in your fly box already, I would implore you to add them to your repertoire for your next outing. Tried and true patterns, I hope you will find these flies as useful as I have.

Dry Fly: Purple Haze

"I am become death, destroyer of worlds." -J. R. Oppenheimer -Andy Carlson (probably), founder of the original Purple Haze. 

The Purple Haze mayfly imitation was created over 15 years ago as a spin-off of the typically gray-bodied Parachute Adams fly. Carlson's reimagining of this classic dry fly pattern to include an attractive purple body was likely considered ludicrous by uptight traditionalists, but it would quickly yield undeniable results when applied to trout water. Applied in the appropriate size, this fly's ability to match a variety of mayfly hatches is incredible. Whether it be BWOs, PMDs, or Green Drakes, the Purple Haze can make for a fantastic option as a searching pattern or a last-ditch effort fly. I am not pressed to say it can even be used as a small ant imitation in the dog days of the terrestrial season. I've personally seen this pattern work wonders in nearly any situation imaginable, and when the bite is on for Purple Haze, sometimes that is all the fish will even eat. 

Why fish are so attracted to such a clearly unnatural shade of purple? Beats me. But this pattern has proven itself as an absolute killer. I would especially recommend this pattern for use in alpine lakes. Making the long trek to a mountain lake, these fish typically see far less angling activity than fish in highly trafficked rivers. Already struggling to find adequate nourishment in the challenging environment of the high country, this amplifies their eagerness to bomb intriguing artificial flies on the surface. Dropping a Purple Haze in their line of sight in an alpine lake is almost unfair; they've never seen anything this delicious looking in their lives! Give it a try yourself, and I bet you will be blown away by the results.

Nymph: BH Prince Nymph

Another pattern known for its versatility in imitation, the Prince Nymph can present as a mix of mayfly or stonefly nymphs. With a bead head and dark body, its white wings and red collar add just enough flash to grab the attention of hungry feeders below the surface. Sometimes the flash even works as an irritant to entice an aggressive brown to take an investigative strike. In smaller sizes, this nymph works as a fantastic dropper that can trail larger nymphs, or fall faithfully below a foamy dry fly. This wet fly can be applied in all seasons, making it a truly timeless fly.

Oftentimes, you can buy these flies for cheap by the dozen in a pre-packaged box in a variety of sizes at your local fly shop. Be ready to lose these nymphs quickly when you fish them at the bottom of the water column, so it doesn't hurt to load up when you get the chance. The Prince Nymph is a popular pattern with many color and sparkle variations, so do not be afraid to experiment. I find myself using these heavily in shoulder seasons to catch the early and late emergences/hatches, and also as a winter standard to accompany squirmy wormies or rubber leg patterns. Drop it deep, and let the Prince Nymph work its magic!

Streamer: Woolly Bugger

The ol' reliable. The ugly bug. The last stand. Meat. When all else fails, it's time to get conventional. That is what the Woolly Bugger represents. 

When most people begin fly fishing, they are reluctant to use streamers because this angling tactic reflects exactly the kind of fishing they are looking to take a break from. So why use this strategy when fly fishing? News Flash: Streamers work. And they often catch very large fish. When fish attain a certain body mass, they begin to shift their focus away from insects and spend more time chasing wounded baitfish/larger meals instead. Fly fishing with Woolly Buggers may not have the same allure and beauty as fly fishing with intricate dry flies, but they present a very exciting meal opportunity to angry trout and can head fantastic results.

This pattern is best suited for situations with limited hatches, aggressive species (smallmouth, brown trout, pike), or an abundance of baitfish. Tactics range from stripping Woolly Buggers at triggering paces, dead drifting them with a bobber, and swinging them across currents. These flies are an excellent choice for nearly all rivers and lakes alike. Modern streamer selection can get complicated, but as you will hear from a multitude of experienced anglers and shops; the bugger, usually in smaller sizes, is still the most effective and reliable streamer pattern on the market. Make sure to have a dark Woolly Bugger for gloomy days, and a lighter one for brighter days. Don't overthink the bugger. It is a great tool to be employed in almost any circumstance.

Fly Fishing Alpine Lakes: Trail Lake

Trail Lake is the first installment in a series I will be working on titled "Fly Fishing Alpine Lakes". Creating this series is a tribute to my adventurous fiance Meg Hornby and her family of relentless mountain alpinists, accredited with coaxing me into demanding hikes up daunting peaks to hidden lakes. Although I may not always be quite as enthusiastic as them on the hiking portions, I am often dumbfounded by the extraordinary fishing these mountain lakes have to offer in incredible settings. These irreplaceable experiences I have been fortunate enough to have would not have been possible without their encouragement and guidance. For this, (and much more) I am extremely grateful.

Tail Lake

In the remote Lolo wilderness of Western Montana lies a quiet mountain lake deemed Trail Lake. I was alerted to this lake's presence upon conducting research to find nearby alpine lakes containing brook trout. Brookies are not a native species to this area, so my opportunities to target them had generally been slim to none. Although considered a somewhat uninteresting species of trout by some, this general scarcity generated my personal interest in pursuing them. I also consider brook trout to be one of the most visually stimulating of the salmonoid species, with their blood-red undertones, topographically striped backs, and intricate blue halos. As these fish swam in my mind, I quickly planned a trip based on old stocking reports and my new book on nearby hikes.

Access

This alpine lake is accessed south of Superior, MT, and can be located at N. 47.0051, W. 115.0420. To reach the trailhead, take USFS Road 250 for 18 miles, passing the popular Heart Lake trailhead. It is pretty easy to miss the righthand turnoff to USFS Road 388; I passed it initially on my visit. So keep those eyes peeled, and track your mileage! Please note that this is a steep, bumpy, narrow one-lane road with a massive dop off. It took me a bit of courage to make my way down in my Ford F150, but it is manageable with any vehicle capable of decent vigor. After nearly 3 miles, you will turn to USFS Trail 156 at the North Fork Trout Creek Crossing. From there it is only 1.5 miles to a small parking clearing, with the trailhead on the left just after the bridge.

The Hike

The hike is nearly 5 miles long on a relatively maintained trail in a thickly forested area. It is slightly overgrown in spots, including a few downed tree crossings, but nothing that requires an arduous effort to pass. The trail begins at a mild grade, slowly climbing until the final mile where the grade increases to a steep push. Trail Lake is not a difficult hike by mountaineering standards, but will certainly make the angler break a sweat on the final ascent to the lake itself. Be sure to grab your bear protection, as this is grizzly country. My fiance and I had a slight spook towards the end of our hike as we could hear a large animal nearby who refused to be deterred by our calls and yells. We cautiously passed, never determining exactly what we had hiked by.

Fishing

As you approach the lake from the trailhead, you will find yourself at the North end. When my party of two arrived, we immediately walked to the water to take a look. The alpine scenery is gorgeous around the lake - steep mountainsides booming with green brush, flanked by a resting rockslide with boulders the size of cars. To our backs, dense forest pushing us to the lake, with sparse, modest campsites to our side tucked tightly in the woods. After a moment to catch our breath and take in the atmosphere, we quickly plotted our attack strategy.

Finding a comfortable spot to fly fish was a tricky task. Floating logs prevented wading possibilities to True North, so we began our hike Southeast along the edge of the lake. There is a shallow stretch of water near the campsites on the Northeast corner that allows for about 20 yards of wading, but lacks structure and quickly gains to chest-deep levels. As we approached the Southeast corner of the lake, we began to observe more fish activity and structure, but the thick tree cover eliminated any casting possibility. Taking a deer trail, we made our way to the Southern bank of the lake, realizing this position offered the best mix of trout water, casting ability, and (slight) standing room. With a steep mountain incline directly behind us, and deep water immediately in front, wading ability leaves something to be desired.

Casting technique comes into play if you are planning to fish Trail Lake on your feet. Brook trout are typically willing and able to attack a fly, but presentation is made difficult by limitations inflicted through the alpine environment. We began by side-casting and roll-casting attractor dry flies below trees and brush to our right, only being met with success on our very best of casts. Brookies were slow to inspect our flies, but quick to grab them once they came to a decision. Splashing the water, these feisty trout attacked with vigor, and were brought to the net with immense struggle despite their small size. Although entertaining, the catching was generally few and far between, so we looked to move positions once again.

My fiance and I began to work our way to more open water containing deep underwater boulders and logs, but were met with disinterest from the resident fish when it came to the attractor flies. It was time for a change, so we switched tactics to dark woolly buggers, hoping to incite instinctual violence. We found this strategy to work with ease. Brook trout slammed our streamers, being particularly fond of the purple color. These trout increased in size too, and we began pulling brookies of sound strength and length to the net with consistency. Their haloed sides and topographic backs shimmered in the sun as they came to hand, and made for excellent pictures before they were released back into the water to fight another day.

As we approached the later afternoon, my partner and I decided it was time to leave this secluded gem; hopefully to return for another fantastic day of fishing at a later date. 

Final Thoughts

Trail Lake is a wonderful alpine lake to target a multitude of decent-sized brook trout in a land where they are seldom found. It is a rarely used lake, boasting mild difficulty to access, and should be obtainable to most outdoor enthusiasts with a free day. Next time, we plan to bring a personal pack raft. The hike was not demanding enough to constitute leaving the raft, and it would be an extremely helpful tool to improve fishing conditions across the lake as a whole. Also, it would be helpful to bring bug spray. We went in July, and small black flies were biting us relentlessly which made our standing position all the more uncomfortable. 

All in all, this is a lake I would recommend anyone visit in the area, especially those looking for a quiet and beautiful sanctuary. Trail Lake offers great fishing for those up to the technical challenge, rewarding all visitors with more than just a bountiful catch.

Top 5 Tips for Winter Fly Fishing

When fall comes to a close, most anglers prefer to stow away their rods and reels, hang up the waders, break out the fly-tying vise, and call it a year. Other anglers plan trips to warmer waters in exotic locations to satisfy their fishing needs. For the rest of us psychopaths, fly fishing doesn't stop when snow hits the ground. Believe it or not, fish are still (somewhat) active in the winter months, scavenging for enough food to sustain themselves through the season. To catch these fish, it is necessary to make tactical adjustments to combat the variables of this challenging time. Fly fishing in the winter is very different than fishing in warmer seasons of the year, and requires a different approach in order to achieve success.

Here is a short list of strategies I employ to increase my odds while fishing in the winter:

Top 5 Tips for Winter Fly Fishing

1. Staying Warm

2. Winter Flies

3. Low and Slow

4. Best Conditions

5. Tailwaters

Tip One: Staying Warm

This may seem like an obvious tip, but it is an extremely important consideration that greatly affects the type of day you are going to have on the water. Wintertime conditions quickly change with storm systems and wind, often dipping into the negatives. Staying warm is not only essential for your comfort, but it is imperative for your safety on these chilly days. Hypothermia is a serious risk and can be a real factor with an accidental slip into the water you are wading. There is an inherent danger to spending time outdoors in the winter, which is only amplified with time spent in the water. Taking the cold seriously and preparing for the worst is vital, and can be made simple by following a few thoughtful measures.

• Layer up! Multiple layers help to maintain body heat. Wear a beanie or other warm hat that covers ears. Moisture-wicking base layers and socks are key!
• Utilize hand warmers in pockets or gloves.
• Keep a dry cloth on hand. Fishing line delivers moisture to your hands, and freezing days require gear maintenance AKA chipping ice out of your rod eyelets. Use cloth to dry wet hands/arms.
• Bring a fire-starting device such as a lighter or small box of matches in a ziplock. This can come in handy if disaster strikes and you get soaked in the stream.
• Store a blanket and a towel in your car. Not only helpful to keep in your car for any winter disaster scenario, but is also a great tool to dry off and warm up after a day on the water.
• Keep moving! Don't be afraid to try multiple sections of water, or just take a short walk if you get cold. Moving helps elevate your bo
  dy's core temperature, so feel free to stretch those legs.

Tip Two: Winter Flies

In the heart of winter, there are occasional, area-dependent flying insect hatches that some anglers like to target, but these hatches are few and far between. Let's just face it; winter is not a good time for dry flies. I probably lost a few readers there, but if you are excited to work deep holes with wet flies and streamers, winter is your time to shine! Worms, small midges, attractor patterns, and stonefly nymphs are all viable wet fly options, as well as baitfish and crayfish patterns for streamers. The following is a list of must-have nymph patterns for most winter fishing situations.

• Squirmy Wormy. Many fly anglers call this pattern sacrilege, but I call it effective. This pattern works all year, regardless of hatch or water condition. Pink or red are your best bet.
• Zebra Midge. One of the smallest nymph options, this little guy has a tendency to attract big fish. A superior tailwater pattern, this general chironomid imitation makes for the perfect dropper to imitate any small bug existing under the water's surface. Black or red are killers.
• Rainbow Warrior. Unlike its tropical name, this warrior works wonders in cold environments. Its colorful head makes way for a shiny body that proves itself irresistible to even the most stubborn trout.
• TJ Hooker. My personal favorite rubber legs pattern, the TJ Hooker is a fantastic lead fly to weigh down your set-up. This yummy pattern works year-round and has a tendency to attract larger trout.

Tip Three: Low and Slow

Due to freezing water temperatures, trout tend to look for the warmest possible areas in the stream. This is typically in the slowest moving water and deep pockets, where they are not required to work very hard or use excessive energy. Trout are in an energy-conserving state during the winter, and are often so lackadaisical they will only move a few inches at a time for a drifting food source. Winter fish also show a tendency to congregate in larger groups together, all forced to hold in the same areas to avoid excessive energy use and vigor.

What does this information mean to the angler? It means that these fish are harder to locate, but if you can find one, you are likely to find others. Be on the lookout for deep pools and drop-offs, slower flows on the inside of bends, and long deep runs. Remember: low and slow water is key! If you start to catch trout, it is best to stay in place and feed them all the hits from your box. If you aren't catching anything, feel free to move on to the next target area.

Tip Four: Best Conditions

Fishing during the chilliest parts of the day can be a miserable experience. Cold winter conditions not only affect us, but they also affect trout populations immensely. Due to the low water temperatures, trout are nearly slowed down to a halt and only move as much as absolutely necessary during the coldest parts of the day. This means that during the heat of the day (warmest water temps), trout become much more active.

Fly fishing in the early morning and late evening may be the best tactic for other times of year, but during the winter months, the best time of day to fish is the afternoon. With a few hours of sun to warm up the water, this is your most productive window of opportunity to work the stream. It is helpful to keep in mind the previous day/night's conditions, as storm systems or sub-zero freezes will affect the following day's recovery rate as well. Ultimately, remember to sleep in, and get off the water as soon as it becomes too cold. Enjoy the afternoon sunshine and look for some fish!

Tip Five: Tailwaters

Are you getting the wintertime fishing blues because all of your local freestone rivers are frozen? Don't fret! Tailwater fisheries are here to save the day!

Dams create a consistent flow of water that fish can rely on and often do not reach the same freezing temperatures experienced by their freestone relatives. Trout patterns nearest to the dam remain the least affected (the further from the dam, the colder the water gets) and can be counted on in even the worst of conditions. Directly below dams, tailwater fisheries also have a lesser affected bug cycle, continuing to produce midges, shrimp, and scuds. Sometimes reaching a tailwater fishery requires a trip, but it is well worth the hassle to satisfy your irresistible fly fishing cravings.

Please note: Not all tailwaters stay unfrozen! My current residence in Wisconsin has two tailwater salmon fisheries nearby that both freeze solid during the winter. Be sure to perform your due diligence by researching your local fishery to determine if it is fishable during the winter.

Conclusion

"Just because it's winter, it doesn't mean fly fishing is over." You will hear this in many fly shops you visit, and sometimes they will even tell you it is one of their favorite seasons to fish. There are little to no crowds, the fish are still swimming around eating, and it can be a beautiful time of year to be outside. Winter is certainly one of the more challenging seasons to fish, but catching trout can be accomplished using sound methods with the right approach. You may be in for a surprise; winter fishing can lead to some impressive results!

Top 5 Tips for Fly Fishing with Nymphs

When most people think of fly fishing, they only think of fishing on top of the water. The exhilarating rush of a trout rising from the depths like Jaws, slamming a finely detailed dry fly on the surface. For the so-called “dry fly purist”, this is the only way to target fish with a fly rod. For those of us who are interested in actually catching fish, fishing below the surface is a perfectly viable option and often a more successful one. Wet fly fishing with nymphs may not be as romantic as fishing with dry flies, but using a bobber gets the job done just the same. It is a tactic that in some ways requires more research but can also lead to higher reward and overall understanding of the aquatic life cycle.

Top 5 Tips for Fly Fishing with Nymphs

1. Use an Efficient Wet Fly Set-Up

2. Cast to Avoid Tangles

3. Adjust to the Appropriate Depth

4. Cover the Water

5. Mend the Line

Tip One: Use an Efficient Wet Fly Set-Up

There is an abundance of ways to gear up a nymph rig, and with more time on the water, it is likely you will develop your own individual preference. For instructional purposes, I am going to go over my personal nymphing set-up and explain why it works for me.

For targeting trout species, I will either use a 9ft or even a 10ft rod in the 5wt category. 10ft is my personal favorite for nymphing, as it helps me cast and mend a bit more efficiently with the slightly added length. 

Using floating line, I will attach a 9ft tapered leader – typically in 4x strength for targeting most trout. I find the end of tapered leader a bit too fine for my liking, and I will sometimes cut off nearly a foot for peace of mind (NOT REQUIRED).

At the end of my leader, I will tie on my first nymph. One nymph is a perfectly fine option, and this may help avoid tangles when casting. Adding two nymphs is a very effective alternative. I typically add two nymphs, as I believe an added fly will increase my catch opportunities, and the extra weight allows these nymphs to sink quicker to target the trout. I like to start with a larger fly as my initial nymph, and a smaller fly as my secondary nymph.

To add a secondary nymph, I use a cinch knot to tie added tippet to the hook of my first nymph. This begins as a loop that I place over my hook.

Next step is to turn the tippet 5 times, then push the guide end of the tippet back through the initial loop on the hook.

Final step is to hold tension to the bug and the guide end of the tippet with one hand, pulling the rest of the tippet to secure the knot with your other hand. I will often wet the line with my tongue, so friction doesn’t disrupt the completion of the knot. 

After this step, tie the secondary nymph to the end of your tippet. I like to have around 18in length between my lead fly and my secondary fly.

Depending on the flow of the water I am fishing, I will add split shot to ensure my nymphs make it to the lower water column. The best way to add split shot is to start with a single bead, then continue to add more as you probe to reach the bottom of the stream. I usually prefer to use Size 1, and to add as necessary. Split shot is added above the first nymph and can be applied at various lengths. Common places to add split shot are 8in above the first nymph, to stray line remaining after adding additional tippet to pre-existing leader, or above a swivel/tippet ring. Adding weight can be as simple or as complicated as desired, but it should be added in a way that does not result in an abundance of tangles (SEE TIP TWO).

Lastly, adding the bobber, or strike indicator as it is tenderly referred to in the fly fishing community. I prefer to use twist on strike indicators that are easily adjusted, and generally stay firmly in place. Strike indicators are adjusted for depth and should be attached at one and a half times the depth of the zone you plan to fish. I judge this distance off my lead fly. A trick I like to use is to let my lead fly sink to my feet where I am wading. Using this, I estimate how much deeper the water will be where I am fishing and use the “one and a half” distance rule in order to determine my bobber placement.

Tip Two: Cast to Avoid Tangles

Tangles and nymph fishing tend to go hand in hand. With all the extra materials added to the line, throw in a little wind and poor mechanics and massive tangles are sure to form almost instantaneously. Casting with unevenly dispersed weight is a far less delicate version of the single dry fly cast, and it is notably less intuitive. Although practice using a nymph rig is the best cure for tangle situations, here are a few tricks that may ease some of the difficulty that comes with using a new tactic.

1. Do not cast past your limit. Try to cast to an attainable distance and work your way to reach further distances. Forcing a long distance cast often leads to mistakes and closes your casting loop. Open loops are key for casting with heavy nymph rigs to avoid tangles.

2. Avoid halting cast momentum. When line abruptly stops mid cast, it increases the chances of your flies interacting with the split shot and/or bobber. If you get a hit on your strike indicator and commit a false set, just ease into another back cast. Smooth action leads to smooth results.

3. Cast forcefully when encountering wind and elements. Heavier nymph set-ups can beat the wind, unlike lighter dry flies. Maintain a smooth cast, but do not let the forces of nature bully you. Use your dominant elbow and the hand on your line to deliver the power needed to complete a cast with intent.

4. If you keep getting tangled with a full set-up, make adjustments to dumb it down. This can mean reducing split shot, fishing with a single nymph, or simply using a large dry fly and adding a nymph below, eliminating the bobber. Sometimes it is necessary to reduce gear, and practice fundamentals until you are confident enough to cast a fully loaded heavy nymph rig.

Tip Three: Adjust to the Appropriate Depth

Trout tend to hunt for the most available food source, and often the most attainable food source is at the rivers floor. I am going to avoid a full-on biology lesson for now and try my best to keep it simple; trout like to feed near the bottom of the water column. Nymphs primarily exist in this lower section of the river, so you will need to get your wet flies down as close to the floor of the stream as possible. 

When wet flies reach the bottom of the river, they will bounce and slide across rocks, boulders, or any other type of material presiding in the area. This will result in your strike indicator slightly bobbing and shifting as it drifts across the water. The frustrating nature of fishing with wet flies is that they often get snagged and stuck on underwater obstacles: Believe it or not, this is a good sign! This means that your nymphs are in the correct place, navigating across the bottom of the stream. If you are not getting snagged at all, or catching any fish, this can be an indication that you are simply not deep enough. Make a small adjustment to your bobber (I usually will add around a foot or so) and try again. Continue this process until you are confident that you are at the bottom, or if you begin to catch trout. 

When your bobber drops, SET THE HOOK. This is going to inevitably result in snags but will also result in caught fish. Too often have I hesitated on a hook set because I am afraid it will result in a snag. Snags are inevitable with nymph fishing, and they should not prevent the angler from taking risks to catch fish. Another strategy I like to use while nymphing is to cast above drop-offs. This requires snagging risk as well; I cast to very shallow sections of water above the drop off which are prone to grabbing flies. If I were to cast directly to the pool, I would minimize snagging risk, but I would also miss the holding lie that is directly below the shelf. Being willing to cast to challenging sections can result in great results if one is willing to bear the risks associated with nymphing.

Tip Four: Cover the Water

A classic wet fly strategy is simply covering all the water. When approaching a promising run, it is helpful to start at the bottom of the section, and to slowly work your way up. Before immediately charging into the river to wade, it is essential to consider the water directly in front of you. Occasionally trout are caught in the shallows, depending on time of year and food availability. Practice by starting your casts nearest to the bank, working each consecutive cast further across the water. Once an entire section is covered, you will have a chance to take a few steps upstream and attack the next section.

As we covered in Tip Three, adjusting your strike indicator is key, especially when reaching deeper sections of the river. If needed, more split shot can also be added to assist your nymphs in reach the lower water column. 

Making constant adjustments is mandatory in order to cover the entire section confidently without leaving favorable holding lies unaccounted for. Some holding lies are more obvious than others, but it is worth testing a variety of water in order to initiate a response.

Tip Five: Mend the Line

Similarly to fishing with dry flies, mending the line is a very important aspect of indicator fishing with nymphs. As the wet flies travel below the surface, they need to be presented in a complete dead drift. Natural nymphs do not have swimming capability and will either crawl across the rocks at the bottom of the river or be pulled into the swift current, floating helplessly. Any sort of drag from the nymph looks unnatural to an approaching trout, causing the fish to intentionally avoid consuming the suspicious material. This makes mending paramount in order to create the perfect drift in order to fool trout.

Mending with a nymph set-up does not need to be as painstakingly cautious as mending with dry flies. Because the fish we are targeting reside at the bottom of the water column, they are not as sensitive to unusual activity on the surface. They are looking to the rocks for food source, not at the ceiling of their limitations. This allows the angler to perfect their mend and readjust it multiple times to make it as ideal as possible. Fishing with wet flies is a great way to practice mending for the novice, as it is more forgivable than other methods.

When mending, lift the tip of the rod slightly, feeding small amounts of line back through with your retrieving hand, and turn your line upstream. This should create slack on the water in a snake-like pattern. If faced with different speeds of current, more adjustments will be required. Continue to adjust until the line on the water is slack enough to create a dead drift, but maintained enough that a proper set can be accomplished.

Conclusion

I started fly fishing with dry flies only and began my transition to wet flies while living in Bozeman, Montana. At first, I was overwhelmed with the idea of fishing with nymphs. It seemed like a complicated process and an alien concept compared to fishing with a single dry fly. After reluctantly performing research and acquiring the necessary gear, I was eventually ready to hit the water. What I found is that my catch rates doubled almost instantly, and I now had a much better understanding of trout habits and aquatic insects. Now, after some time applying this tactic to the water, I am convinced that nymphing is a fantastic way for fly fishers of all levels to improve their game, and to intimately learn the ecosystem that allows this sport to exist. With the tips I have listed above, I hope to create a starting point for anyone looking to try an alternative genre of fly fishing that consistently proves its effectiveness.

Trials and Tribulations of a Self-Taught Angler

Fly fishing is a skill passed down by great generations of anglers. Many anglers I meet in shops or on the water will tell you it is a family tradition. Otherwise, I know plenty who have been introduced to the sport by experienced friends or guides. This leaves a population of folks who discover fly fishing on their own; true pioneers in their own right. Fly fishing can be a complicated activity, one that only increases in difficulty for those with no previous knowledge or background of the sport. Without casting instruction, the guidance to read water, or a pre-established biological background, fly fishing is arguably one of the most challenging hobbies to pick up from scratch. This is a lesson I had to learn the hard way.

I was introduced to fly fishing at a very young age in a relatively unique way. My father was born to a large, Irish Catholic family that can be traced to two places: County Mayo, Ireland, and Chicago, Illinois. Coming from the west of Ireland, it was probably considered that South Side Chicago would be the final destination of our kinsfolk. This decision was only solidified as my family deepened their roots to the city, becoming teachers and police officers who truly committed their lives to serving their community. For any of the family members to move would be an astonishing decision, one that would require deep contemplation and introspection. Or maybe this choice would simply require a viewing of Robert Redford’s classic film adaptation of A River Runs Through It. Thank God for Brad Pitt and thank God for the nineties, because without that movie I would not be here today. My father packed his belongings and headed for Missoula, Montana, where he met my mother and started his life anew.

In somewhat ironic fashion, I was never taught how to fly fish. I grew up hearing stories about my dad’s days in the backcountry pursuing slashing cutthroats and buttery brown trout, but that was about the extent of my fly fishing upbringing. As far as my father was concerned, his days of fishing the blue ribbon streams of Montana were long gone, a distant memory as he relocated to Washington. My interest in the sport remained dormant for my adolescent years. Besides these stories from my father, I had no experience with fly fishing at all. I never saw anyone fly fish in Spokane (not to discredit the underground community dedicated to fishing native redband trout residing in the area). This changed when I found myself living in Missoula, Montana, following in my father’s footsteps to discover the adventure that lie within this wild state.

There are many towns across the country where one can live a life without exposure to fly fishing. Missoula is not one of them. It would be practically impossible to avoid running into one of the many fish sculptures, fly fishing murals, shops. Popular local beers are named Double Haul IPA, Fish On! Pale Ale, The Hatch IPA. You can even buy flies at any of the Ace Hardware stores in town. I remember walking across the Madison Street Bridge and being mesmerized by a row of folks fly fishing below the DoubleTree Inn, and quickly learning that this is a daily occurrence in the summers here. There was not a single moment that started my fishing career; it was a true subliminal brainwashing that ended with me walking out of Cabela’s with a cheap rod and reel starter kit in hand.

For how obvious and inviting the fly fishing culture is in the area, approaching of Missoula’s storied rivers for the first time is an entirely different story. Montana’s big sky never felt bigger, and I never felt smaller as I proceeded toward the rolling blue waters of the Bitterroot. It is a surprisingly overwhelming ordeal. My experiences at the river were usually synonymous with relaxing at the bank or floating down the current with a beer in hand. Now that this is a mission to catch trout, my perception multiplies. First of all, the river is alarmingly loud. This inhibits my ability to think as clearly and simultaneously reduces my sense of security. I have a constant feeling to look over my shoulder, just to ensure nobody is watching my pathetic attempts at casting. Or to check for bears, another concern for a Washingtonian transplant. When I step into the water, it feels cold and strong. My feet are weighed down in the water, and the unstoppable force of the current makes me uneasy. One false step will have me on my ass, and this happens more than a few times in those initial days on the water. 

Now I must decide where to cast. Fish are in the water, right? I guess I’ll just cast there. No fish? Might as well cast to the same spot again. There was no rhyme or reason to my early fishing process. I often found myself casting to the middle of the stream, where my bug would nearly bounce off the water until quickly being swallowed whole. No matter what time of year it was, I only casted a cheaply made Morrish Hopper or a ridiculously large Purple Haze. These were the only flies I could get to stay somewhat afloat, as I had no understanding of floatant or fly dry. Mending was another completely foreign concept, and this did not help my drift situation one bit. How was I ever going to catch a fish? After a good handful of completely fishless outings, I figured it was time to swallow my pride and consult one of the many local Missoula fly shops. 

Walking into a fly shop can be an intimidating experience. Most of them are absolutely stuffed to the gills with any and all fishing equipment imaginable. Filled with rods and reels, varieties of lines, endless boxes of flies and fly tying materials, shops can be hard to navigate even for the avid fisherman. As I attempted to navigate the complexities of this alien environment, a shop associate approached me. “What are you looking for?” I really had no idea where to even start. Do I tell him, “Everything”? Confessing my lack of knowledge and experience felt like a mortal sin among this setting. A shameful endeavor for my considerable ego. Instead, I played it cool. “I’m good man. Thanks!”. Walking out of the shop was a relief. In my hand were more Morrish Hoppers and large Purple Haze. Back to exactly where I started.

Fast-forward two years, I had yet to catch a fish. The only improvement made in my game was a slight increase in my casting distance, and maybe some added patience. I had come to accept the fact that trout are not real, and if they were, they must have a personal grudge against me. Trying not to allow my frustration to dwell, I decided on bringing my fly rod with me for an overnight camping trip to the remote mountains of Idaho with a few buddies from school. If anything, the case worked as a formidable hiking stick, and if we were to encounter a body of water, I could pass the time by practicing my casting. Fly fishing clearly did not involve much catching for me, but I had become fond of the practice of throwing and retrieving line, at least as a source of cheap entertainment.

 

With some time to kill after we arrived at our camp, our small crew decided to walk down to a mountain lake we passed previously on our journey. Hiking stick in tow, I followed my friends as we descended into the area containing a deep pool of crystal clear water, mirroring the mountains above. A beautiful sight, I was content to stand on an emerging boulder near the bank and once again struggle to catch the elusive species I doubted even existed. After gearing up my Purple Haze, I made a rather pitiful first cast that awkwardly plopped on the water a mere ten feet from me. Immediately, something from the depths slammed it, taking my fly deep below the surface. This moment shocked me with excitement. I quickly jolted my rod up to the sky to fight this animal I finally had at the other end of my line, praying that I would be able to finish the job. Stripping in my catch until it was close enough to manage, I grabbed my line and pulled a rather small, yet stunning native cutthroat trout out of the water. I let out a primitive yell, followed by comical laughter. “Holy shit, I caught a rainbow trout!” I misdiagnosed to my friends. As far as I was concerned, I was officially a fly fisherman.

The passion I had for this sport greatly intensified after my experience finally catching fish. It was possible. Fish ARE real. Success is something that I am capable of and can invest in. I wanted nothing more than to relive that experience, but in order to recreate this moment, I knew I needed help. It was becoming clear to me that I was only limiting my growth by refusing to ask questions when I was in the presence of other anglers. My stubbornness needed to take a backseat, and I needed to admit I was a beginner who desperately needed help. So that is exactly what I did the next time I went into my local fly shop. Instead of being ridiculed or spited by the shop assistant, I was welcomed and educated. Despite my fears, it became a delightful experience, and I began to improve rapidly.

Learning to fly fish is a challenging endeavor, yet a rewarding one if one has the willingness to stick with it. It takes patience and persistence to approach the water every day in this demanding search for excitement. But despite the intense effort it takes to catch fish on the fly, the challenge is one of the most attractive qualities about it. If fly fishing was easy, anglers would be catching massive trophy fish left and right, but the reward would not be nearly as enjoyable. The reward is not only the beautiful animal that you have an opportunity to interact with, but the science of the process it takes to finalize a catch. The tedious hours spent outside in cold conditions, the time it took to research the local hatch, the mend that took years to perfect for the ideal drift. What used to seem like the worst part of fly fishing, is ultimately the best. As I have come to discover, beginners are not the only ones tested; advanced anglers also constantly struggle to tackle their next objective within the sport. Fly fishing is a challenge worth embracing, with a meaningful pay-off that justifies itself time and time again.

Review of the Scheels Outfitters Premium Fly Fishing Combo

Review of the Scheels Outfitters Premium Fly Fishing Combo

Different species of fish require different gear for fly fishing, and I was determined to step up my streamer game this past summer in order to target larger brown trout and pike. My go-to fly fishing rod at the time was a 10 foot, 5 weight Orvis Recon. This is a fantastic rod for casting dry flies from a raft, or controlling a hefty nymph rig, but struggles with casting larger, meatier streamers. I knew I needed something heavier, so I began to search in the 7/8 weight category.

What initially caught my eye with the Scheels Premium Fly Fishing Combo was the price point of $174.99. Affordability was a must because this was going to be a secondary rod, and this rod sits at a price that “premium” rods rarely fall on. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to feel it for myself at the store and compare it to the other rods. It certainly matched up to other premium combo kits such as the Orivs Encounter and the Reddington Field Kit that I had the opportunity to hold. With the price being a major sell point to me, and a Scheels warranty on the rod, I decided to ultimately give this rod a try. I have had the rod for 6 months now, and it has been tried in battles with bass, pike, trout, and salmon.

Rod Review

The Scheels Premium Combo rod specs are 9 feet in length, consist of 4 pieces, and includes a cork handle. The action of this rod is listed as soft progressive, which I would consider a middle ground between slow and fast. Ultimately, this is realized in the stiffness felt in the rod while casting. From what I have determined, this rod performs much more like a fast action rod in this sense, and unfortunately, its stiffness along with its weight leaves the impression of a cheaper rod. This is not a light rod; stock reel included, this rod is going to make your arm sore on a full day of casting. While this is not a super light and flexible rod, it allows an advantage for casting distance. Flies of all sizes can be confidently launched far ranges from the Scheels Premium Combo. The element of accuracy leaves room to be desired, but there is never a question of getting your monster streamer to the targeted position, or even further. Most anglers should be able to confidently cast far across the stream with this rod, even if it does not hit the precise location you are aiming for. 

This rod handles exceptionally well for a 7/8 weight, as it has performed for me remarkably when fighting larger fish. Where this rod lacks in playfulness and flexibility, it makes up by its ability to handle strong fish, worthy of a measurement and a scale. This rod is businesslike in the way it can steer fish of all sizes and does not strain itself to bring these specimens to the net. In my experience testing this rod, I have been able to fight adult king salmon with a comfortable rod bend and was never once in doubt of this rods ability to maintain control, driving these large fish to the finish line. If you are looking for a flexible rod with a lot of play, this is not what you are looking for. Otherwise, if you are looking to battle a fish comfortably, without too much hassle, this rod will be a fantastic option for you.

Reel Review

Fishing reels on fly fishing combo kits are typically one of the first items an angler will look to replace. Combo kits are made to allow the fly angler to go from store to water as fast as possible, and will willingly sacrifice quality for necessity when it comes to the reel. Reels are commonly referred to as lowly “line holders” in fly fishing culture, and this couldn’t be more obvious when using most combo kits. Fortunately for the Scheels Premium Combo, the reel is actually one of its greatest advantages. 

The reel included in this combo is a large arbor reel, made not of cheap plastic but strong metal and pre-loaded with floating line. This is a heavy-duty reel, that performs excellently in all conditions, facing dirt and grime without challenge. There is a quite hefty weight to this reel adding to the overall weight of the rod, but this is more than manageable given the reel's ability. The drag is adjustable to take on extreme weights, matching the altogether toughness of this combo kit. It may be difficult to find that sweet spot in your drag between too light or too tight, but with some adjusting it can be found. You will also notice the reel has a silent retrieve, but you get what you pay for, and if you are looking for the sexy sound of clicking when a fish tugs your line, you will likely not find it in any combo kit. The floating line included in this reel is also a “you get what you pay for” attribute, but I prefer to fish my streamer rods with intermediate to full sink line, so I replaced the pre-load line immediately upon purchase.

Overall Thoughts

You would be hard pressed to find another budget friendly fly fishing combo kit that matches the ability and performance of the Scheels Outfitters Premium Fly Fishing Combo. It is not the perfect fly rod and has room for improvement regarding the stiffness of the rod and the excessive weight. This is still a rod under $200, so it will not stack up to elite rods in the higher price points. But for rod that will get you on the water same day, you will not be disappointed in this rod's ability to sling a big streamer or to direct a fish. This is a quality fly fishing rod that will allow you to catch a range of larger species, including those commonly considered above a 7/8 weight’s abilities. All things considered, this is an excellent combo kit with immense value for a budget price point, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to target a wide variety of freshwater species without breaking the bank.

Top 10 Fishing Tips for Fly Fishing Beginners

Fly fishing is a challenging sport. Plain and simple, this is not a sport for the weak of heart. For an activity that is so seamlessly performed by expert anglers, it is a surprise to many who pick up their first rod and reel combo kit that it can be such a challenge even to cast a fly onto the water. Learning fly fishing is a journey, and it seems everyone remembers their first fish, big or small. Bringing that stocked fingerling to a fishing net has never been so exciting as to the angler who has logged countless hours acquiring the skills necessary to complete a cast, follow a drift, strike on a bite, and complete a scuffle. 

As patience is a virtue to the fisherman, it is a requirement for a fly fisher. Unfortunately, many are turned away from the sport due to the complexities of the craft and little to no reward after much time spent on the water. But this does not have to be the case, as there are a handful of tricks and tips that can jump-start ones fly fishing adventure. Believe it or not, there are ways to catch the elusive creatures that lurk in our local waters on the fly, and it might just take a few slight adjustments to meet the results one desires.

Top 10 Fishing Tips for Fly Fishing Beginners

1. Reading the Water

2. Fishing Tactics

3. Time of Day

4. Where to Fish

5. What to Use

6. Using Your Feet

7. Setting the Hook

8. Fighting the Fish

9. Visit your Local Fly Shop

10. Get on the Water

Tip One: Reading the Water

There is a reason this is our first tip: In many respects, this is the most important facet of fly fishing, or fishing in general. If you are fishing in water where there are no fish, there is a zero percent chance that you will catch a fish. If you are fishing water that holds fish, then your chances of catching a fish increase drastically, even in you are not using the best available bait. Being able to read the water will take research and practice, but it begins to come naturally after enough time spent observing your environment. The species you are fishing for will likely determine where they are in the water, but here are a few general places you may find trout or similar freshwater species:

Structure – Look for underwater structure such as downed trees and logs, boulders and rocks, weed beds, man-made structure, etc.

Foam Lines – Often rivers will create oxygenated foam bubble lines, a source of entrapment for bugs as well as a break in the surface that protects the fish from the eyes of aerial predators.

Drop Offs – See subsurface level changes and underwater ledges where fish seek shelter.

Tailouts – This is the end of a river run, and is characterized by its slower, shallower water before the next riffle.

Seams – Looking for seams where fast water meets slower moving water, creating a split in the water flow.

Tip Two: Fishing Tactics

Understanding fishing tactics is key to success on the water. Many anglers only understanding of fly fishing is lazily casting big dry flies over ideal water where a big brown trout will erupt with a dramatic display of strength. But the truth is that at least 70 percent of a trout’s diet is consumed underwater. If we are playing a numbers game, it is clear that a majority of trout will primarily focus their diet on the earlier stages of bug life that preside below the water’s surface.

There are many factors that dictate a choice tactic for a day of fly fishing, but ultimately if the method you are using to catch fish is not working – it may be worth trying something different. Fly fishing primarily consists of three forms of tactics:

Dry Fly - This is the tactic of presenting a floating insect by drifting it across the water’s surface, instigating a strike from a fish below.

Wet Fly - This strategy is characterized by using a sub-surface insect or other fish food, that is drifting BELOW the water’s surface. These “nymphs” are carried by the waters current at various depths to reach feeding fish.

Streamer - This tactic is the imitation of a baitfish to trigger either an eat, or a reactionary strike from a predator below. Streamer fishing is the most similar tactic to conventional fishing, as it is primarily an attractor type of bait.

Tip Three: Time of Day

When fly fishing, it is important to consider the fish species you are targeting, and what time of day they will be most likely to feed. Feed times often change and are affected by a handful of variables. Variables to consider are as follows: What time of year are you fishing? What kind of bugs are available, and what time will they be active? How is the weather affecting the water temperatures? What water temperatures are best suitable for the fish you are targeting?

For example: If you are targeting trout in the summer, it would be wise to get to the water early when they are feeding on a morning hatch of insects in the cooler water temps. The evening will also present a suitable window for trout to feed on a low light hatch, along with the water temperatures beginning to drop to more comfortable conditions. The time of day will completely flip for the winter, as the water can often be too cold, putting trout in a near comatose state. The best available fishing time in winter will be during mid-day, which is likely the warmest part of the day when water temps will ease up on the trout just enough, allowing them to pursue a winter snack to fill their survival needs. Determining best time to fish is crucial to increasing the chances of landing your preferred species.

Tip Four: Where to Fish

Determining what water to fish can influence your success or destroy your chances. Hiking a fishing rod ten miles to an empty alpine lake will certainly put a damper on your day. There are many tools available for you online that you can take advantage of before a trip to help ensure you are not wasting your time. Online, you can determine stocking reports, check satellite maps for streams available on public land, and do research on your local waterways.

Another aspect to be aware of is the amount of angling pressure a certain area receives. Some waters hold amazing opportunity but may be overcrowded, resulting in combat fishing and overfishing. Other waters receive little to no pressure, so the fish are more apt to attack your fly. It always depends on what your preference is, and what success looks like for you. If you want to fish a big, busy river for one big monster, go for it! If you want to fish a small, quiet river for plenty of little fish, the chance is there. Planning ahead and choosing the best access point will maximize your time on the water and help you reach your goals, whatever they may be.

Tip Five: What to Use

Choosing what type of fly to use can be as complicated, or as simple as any angler desires. When you go into a local fly shop, you will be faced with a hundred varieties of royal wulffs, stimulating gypsies, X-Caddis, Quigley cripples, and parachute adams. These names alone can be daunting enough to make the novice angler scratch his head. At the end of the day, if you accurately present a fly where a hungry fish is feeding, you are giving yourself a decent shot at getting a bite. The next level of fly selection is to observe your environment. Are there mayflies buzzing about? What about the sound like the clicking of grasshoppers in the overhanging brush? It is helpful to scoop up a handful of water to see what kinds of insects may be traveling on the current. Another helpful trick would be to pick up a small rock from below the surface, and observe the aquatic life crawling on the flip side of it.

If you do not have an exact fly match for the insect you find in your fishing environment, it is important to consider the following:

Size

Insect stage (surface, or subsurface insect)

Color

Tip Six: Using your Feet

Too often do fly anglers forget that their feet are some of the most important tools they have available, and that these limbs can be applied to their advantage at a moment’s notice. Using your feet to help catch fish is a trick unfortunately many anglers disregard. The strategy here is simple; if the fishing is bad, move on. There is a tendency for fly fishers to stubbornly hold their ground, relentlessly casting to the same patch of water or pod of fish that just doesn’t seem to reciprocate with any sort of action. The next thing they realize is that day turns to night, and all their time on the water has quickly faded into dust. There is nothing wrong with using those legs and walking to the next available fishing hole. Sometimes even the most promising waters do not deliver, and hooking fish on the fly is not a forcible activity. In most fishing circumstances, there is plenty of water to be explored, and maybe the best option is to call it a draw. Walking on offers a world of opportunity, and maximizes your area covered on the water.

Tip Seven: Setting the Hook

Many forms of fishing require a strong, almost violent hook set, in order to embed a large hook through the tough jaw of an angry fish. Conventional fisherman will set the hook so hard, that it almost seems as though their rod is about to explode into pieces. This is NOT a strategy that works best in fly fishing. Due to the remarkably small size of most fly fishing hooks, along with the extreme thinness of the tippet at the end of you leader, the chances of the hook missing the fish’s mouth are amplified as is the potential that the tippet will snap altogether. Setting the hook needs to be very quick and reactionary, but only requires the light lifting of the tip of the rod in order to complete. The hooks on flies may be small, but they are incredibly sharp and will not miss the chance to embed themselves into the desired fish (or as many of you know, an angler’s body). Getting your timing right on setting the hook can be challenging due to the swift nature of the action, but it is rewarding when you connect with a fish and can confidently move on to managing the following run. Remember to keep at least one finger from your lead hand on the line, so that you will only have to perform the single action of lifting that same arm, rather than two separate actions of lifting the rod and pulling line from your secondary, less-available hand.

Tip Eight: Fighting the Fish

Sometimes getting a fish on the hook is the smooth part of fly fishing, but then bringing the fish to a net can be a completely chaotic experience. With a fish’s frenzy of movements, it can be challenging to take control of the situation before it’s too late. Certain species are exceptionally acrobatic - flinging themselves out of the water, shooting downstream with the current, then turning upstream just in time to give a roll on the surface, resulting in your fly launching out of its mouth. What are the best ways to combat these slippery animals?

1. Keep the rod tip up, even if this means holding the rod high in the air. 

2. Control the head of the fish. If it goes left, guide it right, and vice versa.

3. Keep tension on the line, but be ready to give some line if the fish needs to run.

4. Strip the line in for small fish, use reel for big fish. The fish will let you know.

5. Only use the net when you are confident the fish is ready. Nets scare fish.

Tip Nine: Visit your Local Shop

The best way to learn about your local fishery is to go to a fly shop in your town and talk to an expert who fishes the area themselves. Fly fishing can be difficult, but difficult pursuits build strong communities. With a cheerful attitude and the purchase of a few flies, most shop employees are more than happy to respond with a rundown of the area and some local intel. This includes a friendly heads up on fishing conditions, what flies have been working for the guides in town, and maybe even the location of a river that would be worth your time. The fly fishing community is a relatively small one, but it is a community that responds well to those determined to share in the passion of the great outdoors and the pursuit of catching fish.

Tip Ten: Get on the Water

Get on the water! The best way to learn about fly fishing is to go out and practice the sport. Every day logged on the water is a day to improve your skills, whether that is by victory or defeat. Tactics will slowly improve with every fight and every fish caught or lost, even if the lost ones break your heart. Conditions are never completely perfect, and many times an angler meets the most success on days they never could have previously imagined. But those possibilities are only realized with a rod in hand and boots in the water. Outstanding fly anglers are not born experts, but are developed from a mix of persistence, dedication, and stubbornness that other sportsmen struggle to comprehend. Train your skills relentlessly on the water, and success is bound to follow. Tight lines!