Fly Fishing: 4 Interesting Facts You Probably Didn't Know

Fly fishing is a sport you may have already heard about but let us tell you a few things about it anyway. For instance, it is quite a unique activity involving an artificial lightweight fly pattern instead of bait or lure.

This form of fishing may seem similar to your typical fishing day, but the experience is entirely different, and these exciting facts about fly fishing you didn't know are about to show you just that!

What Exactly Is Fly Fishing?

Fly fishing is another way of fishing where instead of using your usual fishing rod, you use a lightweight fly with an artificial fly attached to it to attract the fish you plan on catching for sport or for eating. We promote catch and release, but If you are planning on eating these fish, there are different types of fried fish that you can catch to satisfy your hunger.

This fishing method is considered one of the most efficient and effective ways of fishing. Furthermore, this method is best in fresh rivers instead of lakes. This is an entirely lightweight experience. We aren't talking about the difficulty but the fact that you don't need to carry much heavy equipment. And as a result, the process becomes way less troublesome.

Generally, rivers and still waters are the prime spots for fly fishing. Such ponds and lakes will be the most advantageous for you. Moreover, if your list of prey has salmon, bass, or any other species, then fly fishing should also be the preferred method.

The rod, line, leader, tippet, and flies can be modified to create the best combination capable of luring out the fishes you want. The most significant advantage is that it's inconspicuous, meaning that fishes won't realize the trap you've set for them.

Now that you know some of the basics let's get to the interesting facts about fly fishing that you probably didn't know!

Some Interesting Facts About Fly Fishing

Now that we've told you what fly fishing is, it's time to get down to the interesting facts about fly fishing you didn't know before reading this article!

Fly fishing may seem simple, but there are many things that amateurs with untrained eyes may miss. From picking the right flies to choosing every bit of your equipment, let's get down to the facts!

1. It's a Great Activity for Kids to Go Outdoors.

Do you have children who seems to have lost all interest in outdoor activities and instead prefers to stay indoors glued to a screen?

Well, fly fishing might be the activity to intrigue them and get them outdoors!

There are several training classes for kids to learn fly fishing in Denver and all over the globe, where fly fishing is a regular practice. Furthermore, fly fishing classes will introduce your kids to all the equipment required for the activity and how to use them properly.

As parents, you probably want your kids to get out of the house and find a fun activity that intrigues them enough to get them running out the door. Fly fishing can be this activity for them with the proper lessons and mentoring. After all, what's better than a family trip where the kids and parents can do some fishing together?

2. The American Walton (Thaddeus Norris)

As described by the name he gave by noted journalist Arnold Gingrich, Thaddeus Norris is considered one of the great fathers of fly fishing. Norris was creative and found the perfect solution to fishing in the American rivers and streams as English tactics were useless.

This was way back in the 1800s, but his name is still brought up to this day as the father of fly fishing. He combined his knowledge of fishing and the equipment used at the time to create what we now know as fly fishing. In other words, he used his excellent ability to make the most effective fishing method that would be used on the side of the Atlantic for generations to come.

He was also the creator of several rods made of maple, ash, or perhaps lancewood around the 1870s. This rod is currently in Mrs. Frances Borie's Museum and even has engraved recordings of his catchings. Furthermore, there are only original 10 Thaddeus Norris rods known to exist in the world!

Although he sounds like a simple rod maker, he played a massive role in how fly fishing is now done worldwide. Some of his books are still considered the best fishing books to have been written. The American Fish Culture (1868) and The American Anglers Books (1864) are still regarded as top-notch in the art of fishing. These books were written with his knowledge and stories from fishing trips.

3. Fly Fishing Can be a Dry Way of Fishing

Did you know that fly fishing is done with dry artificial flies? These equipment are designed to look like flying insects that the fish can nibble up from the water's surface. Although fly fishing can be both dry and wet, dry fly fishing is what most fly fishers start out with.

What do you wear for dry fly fishing, you ask? Well, what comes to mind when you think of a fisherman? The fishing vest, right? Well, that's one of the things you should wear for sure. You should also wear a raincoat, so all the splashes of water don't go on disturbing you or causing you to catch a cold.

It would be best if you had some waders and wading boots so you could move freely in the water and remain free from all the harm that the waters may bring. A wader belt will also be a great addition to your gear. And lastly, who can forget a fisherman's iconic hat and sunglasses?

4. Historical Facts from Fly Fishing

The first and the original fly fishing reels were made in England during the industrial revolution. News had gotten out soon enough as the Americans heard of fly fishing, and the sport caught the nation by surprise in the 1920s.

Speaking of fly fishing, although modern technology and equipment have made it much easier and more convenient, did you know that the first traces of the sport can be found in 200 AD? How's that for a little-known fly fishing fact?

We hope that these interesting facts you didn't know about fly fishing have further intrigued you about the activity, and you are now convinced of the need for a fishing trip for you and your family!

Fly fishing and fishing, in general, are undermined as quite simple, but the further you swim down into the lake, the more there is to find, and we hope that you do just that! Good luck!

FAQs

What Is the Best Fly for Beginners in Fly Fishing?

Beginners should start with wet flies or nymphs as they are much easier to use for catching trout.

What Is the Difference Between a Wet Fly and a Dry Fly in Fishing?

The wet insects will look like insects living around and below the water, where fishes swim to nibble them up. The dry flies, on the other hand, represent prey that fishes can catch by getting out of the water, which can be pretty tricky if not done correctly. This is why it is recommended for novice fishermen.

When Should I Go Fly Fishing?

This depends on what fish you want to catch if you wish to use dry flies or wet flies, and the overall bag of equipment you have prepared for fishing. The best time is probably during sunset and sunrise.