Fly fishing is different from traditional fishing methods in several important ways. These important distinctions serve to make the fly fishing rod the most important piece of fly fishing equipment you buy.

Traditional fishing uses a rod equipped with nearly weightless, transparent, monofilament line to cast a weighted hook into the water. Fly fishing essentially reverses this process by using a weighted, translucent line to cast a nearly weightless hook into the water. The action of the fly fishing rod is essential to being able to cast the fly.

Fly fishing is also different from traditional fishing in that the fly fisher never puts their rod down. Fly fishers cast the entire time they are fishing. This makes the decision of which rod to buy very important. Anglers who are fly fishing will spend the entire fishing day with the rod in their hand making casts.

The method of bringing in a fish is also different when fly fishing. While the fishing reel is very important in traditional fishing it is not nearly so important in fly fishing. Fly fishing uses a technique of stripping line by hand. The fly fishing reel is largely used as a storage compartment for spare line.

The choice of which fly fishing rod to buy is indeed a very important decision that will impact your enjoyment of the sport a great deal. Nearly all modern fly fishing rods are made from some type of graphite compound. There are a few bamboo rods still made but they are quite expensive compared to a graphite rod. There are many choices of graphite fly fishing rods available though.

Fly fishing rods are categorized by weight (for instance, a 6-weight rod - also written as 6wt). The weight of the fly rod you buy will be determined by where you intend to fish. It is important to use line that matches the weight of the rod when fly fishing. Some rods are designed to be multi-weight rods and may safely be used with several different weights of line.

One general rule when shopping for a fly rod is to purchase the most expensive rod you can afford. This advice is based on the understanding that the rod is the most important piece of fly fishing equipment in your fly fishing outfit. You can always upgrade your reel later if you decide you want a better reel.

It is always a good idea to visit shops that sell fly fishing gear before making a final decision. Even if you plan to purchase your fly fishing rod through a shop on the Internet it will be helpful to actually handle several different rods before making a final decision. Remember too that while fly fishers tend to be an opinionated bunch, fly fishing rods are largely a personal preference. If a rod just does not feel comfortable in your hand it does not matter how many experts recommend that rod. Your choice will also be influenced largely by where you intend to fish. For instance, small mountain streams in New England will require a lighter rod than large rivers in the Rocky Mountains or Utah.

Popularity: 71% [?]

If you’re new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!

Are you ready to go after the tasty, wily Walleye? Here is what you need to know to get you started fishing for Walleye:

When to fish:

Many anglers will tell you that fishing for walleye is best during the spawning season. Walleye spawn during the end of March until the end of April depending on the location. The best time to catch the walleye is after spawning when they are heading back to the deeper water. The best water depth is about six to thirteen feet. The water temperature should be around fifty degrees. You can catch a male Walleye anytime before, during and after spawning, but the females do not eat during spawning. Keep in mind that the male walleye eats smaller portions after the spawning process.

Where to fish:

If you place yourself at the mouth of streams and rivers just as spawning is ending, you will have a better chance of catching the walleye. Another are to sit and wait for the walleye is just outside the mouth of a stream or river, just before they start heading out to the deeper water. It is always best to wait until spawning is done before trying to catch a walleye. They are more active and tend to start eating more than they do during the spawn.

What to fish with:

When you are fishing for walleye after the spawn, use live bait. The smaller the bait the better off you will be. A small minnow or even a small leech will attract the attention of the walleye. If you choose to use artificial bait, you will want to use chartreuse and orange baits or maybe even a lead head jig. Remember that walleyes are short strikers. They inhale the bait as well as anything around it. You want to have something that will hook right inside their mouth for easy removal. If you move your line to fast, you will disrupt the flow when they strike causing you to lose the fish and more than likely the bait.

Other options:

The second best time to catch walleye is in the fall. Walleye feed more just before the winter. At this time, you want to use large live bait or even larger artificial baits. The bigger the bait, the more likely the fish is to attack. You can use a night crawler, but they are smaller and the walleye will go for bait that is larger than waste its time on your night crawler. Determining which bait to use is going to be decided by weather and water conditions as well. If you are fishing the weeds, you are going to use a lead head jig and the artificial bait. You will use the drop and sink method of fishing the weeds.

Get all your gear for any outdoor sport from Thompson Outdoor Supply.

Popularity: 80% [?]

Fly fishing is a popular and exhilarating sport enjoyed around the world. Popular fly fishing destinations exist across the vast expanse of America with Alaska being one of the most favored by the discerning fly fisherman. One thing, besides the excellent fishing, that many of these wonderful places share is breathtaking scenery. Fly fishermen appreciate the unspoiled and natural beauty of the surroundings they enjoy while fly fishing and many are very keen conservationists.

Other continents offer superb fishing opportunities and the best fly fishing in the United Kingdom can be found across Scotland. The range of fishing in Scotland is incredible from the world renowned rivers of the Tay and Spey to the large famous lochs right down to the multitude of small salmon runs in many truly unique places such as the remote Outer Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland.

A fly fishing vacation in Scotland could see you fishing for Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout one day and the next you could be reeling in a huge Atlantic Salmon, Grayling or even a huge Pike. To make the most of your holiday you will need to understand the fishing seasons, luckily you are able to fish for Rainbow Trout all year round and there are plenty of well stocked lochs to be found in all Scottish districts. However different areas often have slightly different seasons for fishing Salmon and Brown Trout.

Generally the Salmon fishing season runs from February through to late October and the season for fishing Brown Trout is usually from the middle of March until the end of September/beginning of October. If you are planning a fishing trip to Scotland it is often best to arrange a package vacation or to book a hotel in Scotland which has fly fishing. Many hotels across Scotland have their own fishing rights and private fishing and nearly all are within easy reach of prime fly fishing locations.

Package deals reduce the stress of organization and allow you more time to enjoy your vacation. There is no need to worry about arranging your fishing permit, fly fishing tackle, choosing the best rod or reel as such things are usually taken care of with a wide choice of equipment available. If you decide to organize your own fishing trip it may be worthwhile contacting your hotel for advice, just let them know that you plan to spend time fly fishing and they should be able to furnish you with all manner of local information to help make your time in Scotland memorable.

Employing the services of a local gillie is always a wise decision, gillies know the local waters well, they know all the best spots and what are the most successful flies and tackle. They will also know exactly where to get the correct fishing permits for each location. If you don’t use a gillie nearly all permits are available locally and your hotel will know where you should apply.

Fly fishing can be enjoyed by all of the family and Scotland has fishing suitable for all skill levels. There are many A.P.G.A.I. (Advanced Pro Game Angling Instructor) qualified instructors to choose from all with suitable experience to enhance the skills of beginners and seasoned veterans alike. With such a wide and varied selection of fly fishing venues in Scotland it may be necessary for you to adapt your fly fishing technique to match the area and using a fully qualified fly fishing instructor will help you develop such skills. Again, if you ask at your Scottish hotel they will let you know where to find a suitable instructor. You never know you might learn something very useful.

Fishing in Scotland is great fun, so, when you are planning your next vacation give Scotland some serious consideration and I guarantee that you will not be disappointed.

Andrew Kelly has lived in the Hebrides of Scotland for 16 years. Initially concentrating on accommodation in the Hebrides he began writing for the Internet he began writing about vacations in Scotland in general and has now published tens of thousands of pages and articles across many popular sites.

Popularity: 86% [?]

Fly fishing is a special approach to fishing. Fly fishing is different from bait-casting or spin-casting because fly fishing uses a weighted line to carry the nearly weightless bait forward when casting. Traditional fishing tackle is designed to have a nearly weightless line carried by weighted bait on the end. Because of this important difference fly fishing has its own gear, equipment and terminology.

Fly fishing also requires some different techniques than traditional fishing. Traditional fishing may involve casting a baited hook and waiting for a fish to bite or casting and retrieving a baited hook. However, fly fishing involves casting repeatedly with brief pauses to allow the fly to float in the current.

Fly fishing rods are different than traditional fishing rods in several ways. Fly fishing rods are longer than most fishing rods with their length frequently between six and nine feet. Some fly fishing rods are even longer than nine feet, particularly those rods designed for salmon or steelhead fishing.

Fly fishing reels vary from traditional fishing reels as well. Fly fishing actually does not require much use of the reel. Early fly fishing reels were little more than storage space for the line. Fish are not reeled in when caught; rather, the angler strips line with his or her free hand. Many fly reels still are very primitive with designs very similar to those used in the 19th century.

Fly fishing line is quite different from traditional fishing line. While traditional fishing line is made of a clear, monofilament material, fly fishing line is comparatively heavy and translucent. Fly fishing line may be designed to float or to sink depending on the style of fishing it is intended for; the line also may be tapered or level, again depending on the type of fishing that is planned and the preference of the angler. Fly fishing line is available in different weights. Heavier line can be cast further and has greater wind-resistance than lighter line. However, a lighter line may provide for more precise casting by an experienced angler. Fly fishing line is normally around 90 feet long but may be attached to a backer to lengthen the overall line available for fish that like to fight.

A leader is attached to the end of the fly fishing line. The fly is tied to the end of the leader. The leader is a clear, monofilament line normally between six and fifteen feet in length. The leader is tapered to a narrower diameter an the end of the line.

Fly fishing is also special because of the variety of fishing opportunities it provides. Fly fishing techniques can be used on streams, rivers, ponds and lakes. Fly fishing works in salt water and fresh water, cold water and warm water. Fly fishing can open up many opportunities to fish new waters because the techniques and equipment are so adaptable.

Fly fishing includes an interesting history that extends back at least to the second century. Macedonian fishermen successfully used artificial flies on six-foot poles to catch fish with. Fly fishing popularity increased in 19th century England and Scotland before catching on in the United States.

Fly fishing is a historically interesting, challenging approach to fishing. Fly fishing offers many opportunities and variations to anglers. Fly fishing also includes a nostalgic element that may not be found with other fishing styles.

Popularity: 58% [?]

Lake Erie is one of the largest U.S. lakes, and Lake Erie fishing charters is one of the best ways to experience it. It does not matter if you are a life long fisherman, new to the sport, or never held a rod; heading out on the waters with a Lake Erie fishing charter will be a fun filled fishing adventure.

Because Lake Erie is so large, you can choose from a number of spots to fish. From the edge of Michigan to the boarder of Canada, and throughout Northern Ohio you can find places to head into the water. Wherever you decide to head into the water at, you can jump on a Lake Erie fishing charter and do a little drift and casting, or trolling for some trophy walleye. A fishing charter will not only help you get some good walleye, but you can also fish for perch and smallmouth bass. Like most other charter companies, a Lake Erie fishing charter will be run by an experienced fisherman who knows the Lake Erie waters. He will know the best places to catch the fish you are looking for, the best time of day to go fishing, and he will be able to offer some sound advice on how to catch some great Lake Erie fish.

One of the great things about a Lake Erie fishing charter is you can rent one for the day for yourself if you need some rest and relaxation, or you can take a few friends and have an adventure together. Also, Lake Erie fishing charters are great for families. In a day when everything is high-tech, and high speed, it is good to just get away and back to nature, and what a better way to get back to nature than to go fishing. What a great way to spend family time, fishing out on a boat on Lake Erie. A fishing charter can provide a nice quiet setting, encompassed by beautiful lake surroundings. It’s a great place to catch up on life, and make some memories that will last a lifetime.

Whatever your reason, renting a Lake Erie fishing charter is a great opportunity to have some fun, catch some fish, and enjoy and experience like none other. You can get great fishing tips, learn new things, and generally have a wonderful fishing experience. For more information you can contact local fishing charters, and find out whatever you need to make your next Lake Erie fishing trip an amazing adventure. For any season, or any reason, enjoy a Lake Erie fishing charter.

By: Eliseo

Eliseo is an avid fishing guy. For more fishing info visit www.charasfishinginfo.com

Popularity: 74% [?]

Fly fishing is a popular sport around the world with millions of men and women enjoying fly fishing each year. Where are the world’s best fly fishing destinations for that dream vacation? A lot will depend on how much you want to spend and the type of fly fishing you enjoy but these are some of the world’s best fly fishing locations.

No consideration of the world’s best fly fishing locations would be complete without the chalk streams of Hampshire, England. This is where modern fly fishing really all began. Izaak Walton, author of The Complete Angler published in 1653, fished these very waters. These waters are carefully managed with private, scheduled access only. But if you want a taste of authentic, English fly fishing, Hampshire might just be your destination.

The rivers of Labrador in eastern Canada are still home to native brook trout. Labrador’s brook trout approach sizes seldom, if ever, seen in the United States. Brook trout of three to eight pounds are reportedly quite common with some being even larger.

New Zealand’s North and South islands are well known for their fly fishing. Crystal clear waters are home to both brown trout and rainbow trout. New Zealand has opposite seasons to the United States so fishing New Zealand allows you to literally have the best of both worlds. New Zealand has been called a trout fishing mecca for the incredible fly fishing opportunities it provides anglers.

Patagonia, Argentina provides yet another reverse-season fly fishing paradise. Argentina’s rivers are home to brown trout, brook trout and rainbow trout. The Rio Grande River in Tierra del Fuego is also home to sea-run brown trout reputed to be the largest anywhere in the world.

Belize is well known for its saltwater fly fishing. Fly fishing in Belize provides the opportunity to catch bonefish, permit and tarpon all in the same day. Once you have had your fill of fly fishing there is always scuba diving or just relaxing on an incredible beach. The variety of activities available during a Belize vacation can make this location the perfect destination if your spouse is less thrilled than you are with fly fishing.

Christmas Island in Kiribati is a world-renowned bonefish fly fishing location. Christmas Island’s shallow flats provide some of the world’s best bonefish and trevally fishing anywhere. Christmas Island has long been a popular, saltwater fly fishing destination.

Alaska offers some of the best fly fishing in the United States. The diversity of choices makes this an obvious consideration in the Americas. From streams to lakes and from rainbows to salmon Alaska is a dream fly fishing destination.

Where in the world should you pick for your next fly fishing vacation? Much will depend on your location, your budget and the style of fly fishing you want to experience. Fly fishing is a popular sport around the world with options for just about everyone. Whether you like saltwater or freshwater fly fishing, islands of mainland, there is a dream fly fishing destination for you.

Popularity: 57% [?]

Fly fishing is a sport that is enjoyed around the world. Millions of people have discovered the joy and excitement of fly fishing. While fly fishing is practiced in every state in the US some areas naturally rise to the top as offering the best fly fishing around.

The Catskill Mountains of New York are renowned for fly fishing. The late 19th century saw anglers in the Catskills developing artificial flies designed to imitate natural insects. The Beaverkill is perhaps the most popular of the Catskill rivers. The Willowemoc and the West Branch of the Delaware River are also very popular with fly fishers.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming and the surrounding area offers near-unlimited fly fishing options. The Snake River and Jackson Lake are popular fishing choices outside of Jackson Hole. Jackson Hole is accessible by ground or by air to the Jackson Hole airport. Jackson Hole provides more fly fishing options within a few miles than any angler could explore in one visit.

Henry’s Fork of the Snake River offers legendary rainbow trout fishing. This area, particularly around Harriman State Park (Harriman Ranch) is legendary for its fly fishing. The area is open and offers unobstructed fishing. Downstream from Harriman Ranch the fishing is reputed to be faster paced.

The San Juan River in New Mexico affords excellent year-round fishing. The 10-mile stretch of river below the Navajo Dam boasts 10,000 fish per mile of river. The section below the dam is populated mostly by rainbow trout with brown trout and cutthroat trout found further along the San Juan.

Gallatin River around Bozeman, Montana is renowned for rainbow trout. Nearby, just south of Livingston, creeks have up to five insect hatches each day. DePuy’s, Nelson’s and Armstrong’s all have fantastic rainbow trout fishing. Armstrong’s Spring Creek is a meadow stream from 50 - 100 feet wide and known for its rainbow trout. Spectacular mountain scenery rounds out the fly fishing experience here.

The Wind River Range in Wyoming has an estimated 700 trout lakes. These lakes include cutthroat, brook, rainbow, grayling, brown and golden trout. This range is primarily high country and offers great hiking as well as fly fishing.

Michigan’s Au Sable River offers 180 miles of trout fishing. Located in northeast Michigan, the Au Sable River is home to rainbow, brook and brown trout, as well as steelhead from Lake Huron. The Au Sable offers a variety of fishing conditions along its distance.

The Jacks River in Georgia is a Conasuaga River tributary. The Jacks River is largely in the Chattahoochee National Forest and therefore is accessible to the public. The Jacks River provides fly fishing opportunities for rainbow, brown and brook trout. The area is popular with hikers but sees fairly light fishing activity.

Northeastern Utah’s Green River offers extraordinary trout fly fishing. The tailwaters below the Flaming Gorge Dam offer outstanding trout habitat. It was this 30-mile section of river that produced a 30 pound brown trout only 10 years ago. Unfortunately, this secret is out and summer finds the river quite busy. Early spring and fall offer less competition and a very large number of trout.

The United States boasts some great fly fishing waters. There area even more opportunities if you venture north into Alaska or Canada. As this list shows though, there are many great fly fishing opportunities right here in the United States.

Popularity: 46% [?]