Fly Fishing Gals

Required Gear to get Started

•  Fly Rod & Reel ($100+)
• Flies ($0.89+)
• Waders & Boots (Waders - $100+, Boots - $49.00+)
• Fly Vest ($29.99+)
• Nippers ($5.99)
• Floatant/Sinker ($3.99+)
• Strike Indicators ($1.99+)
• Extra Leader & Tippet ($3.99+)
• Polarized Sunglasses ($15.00+)
• Hat ($15.00)

Buying a Fly Rod

When purchasing your first fly rod, be sure and know what you'll be fishing.  A 5 weight rod has been described as an ideal first rod.  It can be used for Trout fishing as well as Smallmouth.  However, if you intend on doing little Trout fishing consider an 8 weight rod for Smallies.      

•  4 or 5 Weight - Trout
• 8 Weight - Smallmouth, Steelhead
• 10 Weight - Muskie, Permit, Barracuda, Baby Tarpon

Don't be scarred by the Backing, Fly Line, Leader, Tippet!

For the beginner the backing, fly line, leader and tippet seems intimidating.  However, most retailers will add your backing, line & leader to your reel at the time of purchase.  Don't worry!  Ask your retailer for a quick example of a few knots to connect your Tippet and Leader.  Don't forget to ask about a knot for your fly as well.

The weight of your line, leader and tippet should match the rod weight.  However, you can also use a 4 lb. leader with a 5 weight rod/line.  Don't be afraid to mix and match only by a few numbers.  

 Waders - Every Girl's Favorite

Every girl loves the idea of Waders!  Perhaps one day the industry will provide a more appealing wader for the female.  Until then, here are a few options for us girls.

Cabela's Dry-Plus Premium Waders ($130) 

Hodgman Women's Classic All Purpose Waders ($146) 

 Patagonia Women's Watermaster LT ($200)

Simms Women's Freestone ($200)

Consider the climate when purchasing your waders.  If the temperature is hot be sure and consider waders that are breathable.  If you plan fishing on those cold winter days consider waders that offer Neoprene to the knees.  

Boots

 Cabelas, Hodgman and Patagonia all provide boots for us girls.  Felt soles are recommended for wading in Rivers/Streams.  The cost ranges from $49.99-$150.00.

 Casting

Casting is what seems to catch everyone's eye, it is an art that takes time and patience to master.  There are several types of casting for each situation on the river. 

•  Overhead Cast
• Side Cast (Perfect for windy days or that secret spot under a tree)
• The False Cast (Used to change directions and involves 2 backcast)
• The Distance Cast (involves shooting the line and the double haul)
• The Roll Cast (perfect for tight places and no room to backcast)

Mending Line

When you cast across a current to slower water, the faster current catches the line pulling the fly downstream (drag) at a faster pace, spooking the trout in the process.  You can mend the line by flipping your rod/line upstream as soon as you finish your cast.

 Knots

They are several knots you can learn to help with your fly fishing experience.  However, only two are needed to survive.  

•  Clinch Knot or Duncan Loop (My favorite, it never fails) - Leader/Tippet to Fly
• Double Surgeon's Knot - Leader to Tippet

  Another great knot to learn if your line has a loop at the end, is the Perfection Loop.  You can easily attach your leader to your line with this loop.   

Still thinking "HELP!!!"

 Get started the way I did...  Find your local Cabela's Outfitter and ask as many questions as you can in the Fly Shop.  They are ready and willing to help out in any way they can, offering suggestions on gear, easy access fishing locations, perhaps a quick casting lesson to test out your new rod and plenty of help with those confusing knots.  Don't be afraid to just ask!  You'll soon find that Fly Shop will be your home away from home filled with your favorite fishing pals!  If you don't have a Cabela's retail store nearby, feel free to email us your location and we will do our best to respond with a local Fly Shop.  

 Get involved with your local Trout Unlimited Chapter.  You will learn about conserving, restoring and protecting the rivers you love.  Monthly chapter meetings are held where you can meet the people who truly share your passion as well as work to ensure the future of Trout fishing.  

 Get involved with the local Women's Outdoors Group as well as any classes offered by the DNR.