Fly Fishing

Nymphing is a fun and productive method for catching trout in general, but with steelhead, this special technique can be one of the most effective ways to hook up consistently. Learning how to effectively nymph fish will change the way you approach spring steelhead fishing.

Although the Northern Midwest is known for countless miles of pristine trout streams and lakes, every year anglers are discovering how fun and exciting spring pike fishing can be. Fly anglers need not be experts to catch the toothy critters, but simply have a basic understanding of their behavior and feeding habits.  

A friend and I spent time on a small, rough and tumble creek fishing for rainbow trout one morning into the afternoon. Between us we caught sevent nice rainbows measuring between 18 and 26 inches.

As spring works its way into the many rivers and lakes that make up northern Wisconsin, the thought of casting large streamers to pike and smallmouth excites most anglers. At one point or another, all fly anglers who fish with large weighted streamers have those flies get a little too close.

Stoneflies can produce some fantastic nymph fishing, especially in the cold flows associated with the spring months. These big tantalizing insects are prolific in most cold, clean streams found throughout the greater U.S. making them a staple in the diets of large trout. For most inexperienced fly anglers, using a tiny nymph pattern does not seem like it could strike up interest from trophy class fish; but out of all the lunkers caught every year, a large majority of these fish are taken by nymph patterns.  
   

Other than trout, it would be hard to imagine a freshwater quarry better suited for the fly rod than smallmouths, particularly those inhabiting rivers and large streams. The reason they are such a good fit for the long-rodder is their aggressive feeding habits and their penchant for compact, bite-sized meals.

"I own it." That statement has been the catalyst for countless serious debates about the finer points of the perfect trout rod. Fly fishermen are passionate folks and those participating in the continuous flow of discussions promote the rod that fits them best.

A Little History

Most of the fly anglers that I have fished with over the years have only ever tried adult dry fly patterns. Yes, there is a time and place for Caddis dries, but fishing emergers and nymphs will make you much more successful.

You've heard about the simplicity and effectiveness of fishing with a tenkara fly rod and decided to give it a try.

Several things related to fly fishing can be confusing to a beginner. Rod action is one of them. Here's an in-depth look at fly rod actions and their advantages and disadvantages.