Fly fishing is an angling method of catching fish that uses an artificial lure known as a fly. The fly is basically an imitation of any insect. The fly is usually cast into the water using a fly rod, reel, and a specialized weighted line. Since this method is a lightweight form of casting, it requires a significantly different technique than its counterparts.
Getting into fly fishing as a beginner can be pretty intimidating. Not only do you have to learn the angling technique, but you also have to invest in gear and other necessities. You must invest some money in the practice. The most significant part of this investment goes towards purchasing equipment. In this write-up, we look at all the equipment you need and the cost of acquiring them.
How much to invest in flyfishing gear
Before getting into the cost elements, you must first know the type of equipment you need. Below are some of these things;
Fly fishing rod
This is one of the essential pieces of equipment for fly fishing. Compared to conventional fishing rods, fly fishing rods are pretty lightweight and thin. They also come with rings called guides which are used to control the line. These rods also have handles and a reel seat where the reel is mounted. The handle is usually short to allow for fast and whippy action.
For this reason, you cannot use a traditional fishing rod for fly fishing. For a beginner, you need a simple fly road that is easy to cast. This will help you learn good technique and build on it later.
How much does a fly rod cost?
There are numerous types and brands of fly rods selling for as much as 1000 dollars. However, as a beginner, you do not need a fly rod made with the latest technology and materials. You can get an efficient fly rod for about 150-300 dollars.
The fly reel
This is also essential fly fishing equipment. It is used as a line holder. However, modern design performs more functions than this. They help you with balancing the fly rod and smooth performance. They can also be highly instrumental in helping you land the big fish. For a beginner, you need a fly reel with enough capacity to hold your line. However, you must also ensure that its size and weight are well balanced with the rod.
How much does a fly reel cost?
You can get a solid fly reel for about 100 dollars. However, if you are pressed on cash, you can also consider some below 100 dollar options.
The fly line
The fly lines are vital in this technique of catching fish. The lines are where the entire fly casting and presentation of fly comes together. This is because energy is transferred through the fly line to cast the fly ahead of you. Therefore, the weight of the line is significant as it allows for easy angling. The weight of the line is what bends the fishing rod, which then turns, sending the line forward. Its number rating usually determines the weight of the line. Typically, the larger the number, the heavier the line, for more info click here. There are two types of fly fishing lines. The first one is the floating line. It is used to present flies on the surface during dry fly fishing and beneath the surface in wet fly fishing. The second one is the sinking line. This one is only used for wet fly fishing. When choosing the best line, you must consider the weight, type, and quality.
How much does a fly line cost?
For a beginner, you can get a good quality line for around 50 to 80 dollars.
The leader and tippet
The fly fishing leader and tippet are responsible for providing the transition from the fly line to the fly. They are essentially a single component since the tippet is found at the end of the leader (a transparent material at the end of the fly line). The tippet extends the life of the leader. Their primary purpose is connecting your fly line to the flies. Secondly, they are used to transfer the energy in the line through the casting stroke through the line to the fly. Doing this causes the line to roll over and straighten. You can purchase these components in packets.
How much do a leader and tippet cost
A packet of leaders and tippets go for around 20 dollars.
Flies
The flies are at the centre of fly fishing technology. The flies are used as bait for luring fish in fly fishing. They are usually designed to look like real insects that different types of fish eat. Therefore, the market features a wide range of fly options and the choice you make usually depends on where you want to go fishing. Your choice should also be based on the species of fish you are after.
How much do flies cost
Most stores sell these components in one dozen packets. For one dozen flies, you may have to spend about 50 dollars.
Fly fishing clothing
As a beginner, you would also benefit from getting the following fly fishing clothing
- Waders- these are not 100% necessary. However, if you plan on getting in the water, you may have to get them. They offer insulation from the cold and allow you to access fishing pools and move away from the shoreline. Waders can cost you between 250-300 dollars.
- Boots- you may want to couple your waders with boots for protecting and insulating your feet. A good pair of wading boots should cost you around 150 dollars.
- Vest or chest pack- for this component, you may have to spend around 180 dollars depending on the quality and brand.
- Sunglasses- you will need a pair of polarized sunglasses to help you see the fish in the river. These cost around 30-300 dollars per pair.
Conclusion
In general, you may have to invest up to 3000 dollars on the equipment mentioned above or more. The best thing to do is to go for quality and affordable items so that they can help you as you continue mastering this fishing technique. You can always choose to forego some items that are not mandatory.
