Fly Fishing Catch and Release

Once you make the decision that you want to become part off the world of fly fishing, you have to then decide if you are going to keep your catches or release them back into the water safe and sound. Some fishermen keep all the fish they catch, others release all that they catch, and some choose to use a combination of the two.

These fly fishermen keep only what they are going to eat, or give to other people to eat, and release all of the other fish they catch.

If you decide to practice fly fishing using the catch and release method, it is very important  that you crush the barb of the hook you are going to use. The other choice is to use a  hook without barbs. This is done to avoid any unnecessary injuries to the fish. It is also important to keep the fight as short as possible so the fish does not become overtired. At the first opportunity, bring the fish to hand but do not take it out of the water. While holding it under the water, remove the hook using a pair of fishing pliers.

If the fish seems to be too tired to swim away,  hold it gently just under the surface of  the water with one hand around its caudal wrist, which is just ahead of the tail. With the other hand, support the fish under its belly. Rock the fish gently back and forth making sure that the water enters its mouth and flows over its gills. Using this method, the fish should gain its energy back quickly. When you feel the fish try to pull away,  gently release your hold on it. Using the catch and release method of fly fishing can be very rewarding.

Often fishermen believe they should release the smaller fish that they catch and keep the larger ones. They might not be aware that the larger fish usually represent the more genetically suitable spawners. They are the ones that are the most valuable fish for keeping a healthy species. It is wiser to keep the smaller fish to eat and release the larger ones back into the water.

Some people while fly fishing,  feel that it is all right to catch as many fish as possible as long as they release them all. However, catch and release is not foolproof. Many fish are injured during the process and some even die. At times, even though the fisherman doesn't keep any of the fish he catches, the overall fish mortality rate for that day is higher then if he had caught and kept the legal limit. Most fish, even if they are not physically injured, will sulk for a while after they have been released because of the trauma of being caught and released.

Catch and release fly fishing can be a wonderful way to experience the sport. Every release of a fish contributes to the conservation efforts that ensures the future of having future stocks of fish.

As seen on : Let Them Live - Catch and Release Fly Fishing

Fly Fishing Equipment

Image via WikipediaImage via WikipediaJust as with any other sport, the equipment you use when fly fishing can be very important.  There are various types of equipment that you need when you undertake fly fishing, and be prepared because some of it can get quite expensive!

Of course, you’ll need a rod and reel.  What type of rod you choose depends on the type of fish you will be angling for.  Fly rods are ranked according to their net weight capabilities (nwt).  The nwt number will tell you what type of fish you will be able to catch.  Fish that weigh 8 pounds will require at least an 8 nwt rod, etc.   The larger the nwt number, the larger fish you can catch.

Some rods are multi-rated (e.g. 7-9 nwt).  These rods are good to use because they can accommodate a variety of fish, but multi-rated rods tend to be less flexible than single rated rods. 

Rods are made of fiberglass, graphite, or bamboo.  Fiberglass rods are durable and less expensive.  Fiberglass rods are best for beginning fly fishermen because they can be used in a variety of situations.  Graphite rods are lighter and will give you more fighting weight when it comes to landing a fish.  Bamboo rods can be expensive, but they are extremely strong and are suited to a more laid-back casting style.

Your fly line will need to match the nwt of your rod.  If you have an 8 nwt rod, you’ll need to use an 8 nwt line.  It is acceptable to go one or two sizes above or below your rod weight (i.e. 9 nwt or 7 nwt).  Buy line that is strong and durable.  Some lines are specially designed for freshwater, saltwater, etc.

You will also need to have a durable net that you can carry with you.  After the fish has lost its will to fight, a good net is used to scoop them out of the water.  This can be a big part of your fly fishing equipment because without a good net, you won’t be able to get your fish out of the water!

Having the right fly fishing equipment is important for both the beginner as well as the experienced angler.  As you get better and better at the sport, you will begin to see how important having good equipment can be.  You can always upgrade, so it’s good to start out small and work your way up to the more expensive stuff.  Your fly fishing equipment can make a world of difference between landing that big fish or catching an ordinary one.

Fly Fishing Calendar

Image via WikipediaImage by David Ascher via FlickrWhat are the best times to try and schedule a fly fishing expedition?  When we talk about a fly fishing calendar, we aren’t referring to a printed date book that you can hang on your wall.  We are talking about targeting and specifying the right times to fish and the right places to fish at.

The things you need to look at most when considering a fly fishing calendar is when the water will be at the right temperature that is prime for catching fish.  Depending on the area you are looking at for your fly fishing trip will depend on the right time to go.

In some places like California, the fishing is pretty good year-round.  While in other places such as Washington, you’ll want to avoid the water in the winter as the cold temperatures will stress the fish and they won’t be as plentiful.

Generally, the fly fishing calendar shows the best fishing in the spring and summer months.  Early fall will also find some places showing good fishing as well.  Almanacs can be helpful guides to guide you towards the best fishing times as can constant updating through Internet web sites.

Most places will give weekly, and sometimes daily, fishing reports on their websites.  They can tell you where the fish are biting and where the best places are to cast your line.  They generally keep these areas of their sites updated pretty regularly, so you can get quality reports just by looking at what others have to say.

Fish like warmer waters, although, there are other species that thrive in cold water such as salmon or steelhead.  In general, warm water will attract more fish.  However, if the water is too warm, the fish will be sluggish and will navigate to places where the water is cooler.

The fly fishing calendar used most often by experienced fishermen has been compiled over a period of time.  They spend a considerable amount of effort to estimate where and when the best fishing will occur.  Then they share it with others.  That’s one of the best parts of fly fishing – the camaraderie and sharing that can come about with a love of the sport.

You can compile your own fly fishing calendar with a little time and effort.  Just do your homework and keep copious notes.  When you see a trend, you’ll know it’s time to fish!  Then be sure to help your fellow fishermen as they try to figure out what you already know.  They’d do it for you!