Fly Fishing

Jess

I live in Central New Hampshire and am just beginning to gain an interest in fly fishing. I do not own any gear and was hoping for some advice on good "beginner" rods. I would most likely be doing freshwater fishing, lakes, streams, for the time that I learn. Thanks for the help

mnflyangler1 · Posted: Wed 04/22/09 3:21 pm Post subject:

A good way to start is maybe get a redington, scientific anglers, or cortland begginning pack. But if you know you are going to really be an avid fly angler you might want to buy your own stup. I would reccomend going to your local fly shop and trying some rods. Personally I love temple fork outfitters lefty kreh series one fly rod because it is very well priced, its versatile, durable and it is to me an overall good rod for about 109.95 but than you have to purchase a reel line backing etc. But usually a good way to start out is to buy a beginner pack from st. croix, scientific anglers, redington, or cortland. And than if you decide you want to upgrade and become more dedicated I suggest you go to your local fly shop and just look and hold rods. And get a feel for what you like as for reels I would do the same thing. For line I like scientific anglers floating weight forward and as for the weight of the line you just want to match it with the rod you have. Usually a 5 or 6 weight rod is what you want for trout fishing and if you will be fishing creeks you may want a 4 weight. And as for leaders and tippet carry a variety of sized leaders that match the correct size flies you will most likely use in your area. As for flies there is the million dollar question what are the fish eating? The most vital way to approach this question is to go to your local fly shop and learn about the hatches on the creeks and rivers you will be fishing. I'm pretty sure the people at your local fly shop can assist you in fly selection and can talk to you about the local hatches in your area.

Kennebecster · Posted: Thu 04/23/09 10:05 pm Post subject:

Most of your rod companies now have excellent equipment, but go to your local fly shop and explain what you are interested in and what you are looking for. Sage, temple fork, redington.... the new tech. is so good that its a matter of personal choice, as time goes by you may decide to upgrade to a different style of rod. having taught some fly casting I think that and 8 foot 5 weight outfit, or an 8 and one half foot six weight outfit would cover almost all of your fresh water fishing situations. A reel with an adjustable drag works best and I am a believer in orvis braided leaders for their ease of changing tippets.
As far as flies, well your local fly shops where you are fishing can fill you in as to what works in your area, don't be a fraid to experiment though. Good luck and have fun!