Equipment for Fly Fishing

Fly fishing can seem daunting, if only because of the amount of equipment involved. But how much of that is purely for show? We’ve put together a list of what you actually need to get started to make your first fly fishing experience a little less complicated.

Five-weight rods can handle any fish from 6 inches long to five pounds. For fish of this size, most fly reels, regardless of price, will work just fine. Weight-forward, five-weight floating lines work best for five-weight rods. Floating line is a simple place to start practicing your cast and works with wet and dry flies. Weight-forward just refers to the line’s taper.

Braided Dacron backing isn’t essential, but it will prevent any big fish from taking all of your line and make bringing your line back in a lot less painless. A standard nine-foot, 5X leader is the way to go with a five-weight line. These are tapered monofilament line. Keeping 5X tippets to replace portions of your 5X leader is always a good idea.

Neoprene waders will keep you warm in cool weather, but with the Summer season coming in, we suggest either going big with waterproof/breathable waders (a bit expensive, but often with a lifetime guarantee) or fabric waders. Fabric waders are prone to leaks, but are one of the better options to avoid an uncomfortable trip.

Other items to never forget on your trip are wading boots, clippers, fly floatant, a net, forceps, a leader straightener and a fly vest or chest pack. These last two items should be comfortable as well as functional, as you’ll be wearing them all day.

Contact Marble Canyon Outfitters to get started on a guided day of fly fishing. You’ll be glad you did!

Source: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/03/04/1103605/want-to-fly-fish-heres-what-you.html

Common Fly Fishing Mistakes

There are plenty of nice adjectives that get kicked around when we talk about fly fishing – serene, peaceful, patient – but easy is generally not one of them. Fly fishing is hard, no doubt about it, and there is plenty of room for errors that can make it even more challenging. These simple errors sometimes discourage novice fly fishers and keep them from pursuing the sport further. Fortunately, many of these mistakes can be easily identified and rectified, making the experience of fly fishing a whole lot more enjoyable. Today we'll look at a few of these common mistakes.

Approach with Caution

It's easy to get excited and go happily sloshing out into the Colorado River, but this is probably not in your best interest. Bear in mind, any sudden, noisy movements you make will immediately be noticed by any fish in the area. Before you enter a stream or river, scout it out from the shore. Look for any spots with lots of insect activity. There are likely to be fish nearby, and the imitation insect at the end of your line will have an easier time blending in. If you see any rocks jutting out of the water, consider using them as a perch while you fish. This will give you a bird's eye view of the water and minimize your chances of spooking the fish.

Slow and Steady

A fast, rushed cast has a greater chance of spooking fish and tangling your line. Do your best to stay relaxed and find a nice, slow cadence for your cast. It will take a good deal of practice and diligence to maintain this relaxed posture, but it will also greatly increase your chances of success.

Remember the Plan

It's called fly fishing for a reason. The goal is to imitate the action of an insect on the end of your line, thereby enticing unwitting fish to take a nibble on your hook. Before you head off to a local fishing hole, do some research to find out what kind of insects are common to that ecosystem. Choose your flies accordingly and do your best to imitate the movement of the real thing. Getting fish to buy your insect parody will also take time, but it is one of the most rewarding aspects of fly fishing technique.

Learning to fly fish shouldn’t scare away those who are looking to enjoy nature and take part in the rich American pastime. At Marble Canyon Outfitters, you can learn new techniques right here at Lee’s Ferry on the breathtaking Colorado River. Visit our website to get started today.

For More Details, Visit Home at http://www.LeesFerryFlyFishing.com

Fly Fishing as Therapy: How Angling Can Help PTSD

While fly fishing is not often seen as the most glamorous activity out there, it’s been garnering a great deal of attention in the press for a very virtuous reasons. It’s been has been embraced as a way for veterans of war to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. Many organizations have been formed to promote this cause, and it’s been highlighted in countless news stories

Water has been a source of healing since ancient times, and fly fishing involves wading in the water, casting a long line, and seeing what can be caught. Indeed, many men, war vets or not, have found a peaceful serenity in the joy of being out in nature, breathing in the air, listening to the birds, and trying to catch ever-elusive fish.

When a person has gone through a traumatic experience, as is prone to happen in the chaos of war, the images and sounds of those dangerous times can haunt them for years to come. PTSD is something that too many soldiers suffer with; fly fishing, however, calms them.

Putting a person’s mind and body at ease is no easy task in a world that’s full of traffic, pollution, noise and people. So a fly fishing “getaway” is an ideal situation for people who want to escape to a quiet, pretty place, away from the crowds and the city. We’re proud to be a part of this peaceful outlet, and encourage those who feel like they could benefit from this therapeutic activity to try it.

Marble Canyon Outfitters at Lees Ferry offers guided fly fishing experiences in northern Arizona. In the Colorado River at the head of the Grand Canyon, this dynamic area is like visiting another planet—far from the suburban look of most of America, this is an out-of-the-way, relaxing place where the fly fishing is great and the surrounding scenery will enliven your senses like nowhere else can. 

For More Details, Visit Home at http://www.LeesFerryFlyFishing.com

What Should I Wear When I Go Fly Fishing?

As with most outdoor activities, being well prepared for a fly-fishing trip is key. There are certain circumstances to observe when getting ready to go out for the day, with articles of clothing to strap on for every fly-fishing need. While you may not always need everything mentioned, it's a nice overview of what's out there.

The Basics

Because fly-fishing requires you to be on the move, equipment is often out of reach. A quality fly-fishing vest or shirt can serve as a wearable tackle box, made of durable fabric, and with an abundance of pockets to store flies, hooks, and other supplies.  One important thing to keep in mind when choosing a vest or loading it up for the day is the way it distributes weight throughout your body. During a long day of fishing, a heavy vest puts more stress on your frame than you might think. Depending on the weather forecast, dress in layers so that you can add and remove clothing for your own comfort and safety.

Ready to Wade

Fly-fishing involves a great deal of time wading in water, so you’ll want to acquire a solid pair of wading boots. You’ll also want something to wear underneath them, as cold water temperatures can be uncomfortable, even through good boots. Just make sure that whatever you choose to wear is breathable. There are different types of wading apparel available, as each angler tends to settle on what they feel most comfortable (and dry) in.

Wet-Resistant

If possible, see that whatever you wear will dry relatively quickly if it happens to get wet. Even if you don’t think you’re in danger of falling in, splashing water and condensation can still be a nuisance over time. Besides, even the most experienced anglers take the occasional tumble. Some choose to wear a special belt over waders to keep them from becoming waterlogged in emergencies.

Blending In

Why go through the trouble of strategizing and casting perfectly if you’re scaring the fish away to begin with? Avoid bright, unnatural colors and go with neutral shades that blend in well with your surroundings. White, gray, brown, or even light blue are all fine choices when it comes to the color of your clothing.

Block the Sun
A pair of polarized sunglasses might be the most important item, aside from your rod, that you can bring fishing. Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from the Sun’s rays, they also eliminate glare and allow you to more easily spot fish. To protect the rest of your body from the hot Sun, you’ll want to wear a brimmed hat and apply sunblock to exposed parts of your body. Even if the weather is a little chilly, the Sun can shine just the same.

For More Details, Visit Home at http://www.LeesFerryFlyFishing.com

Fly Fishing Etiquette

The list of things that can ruin a fly-fishing excursion is very short, but poor etiquette from a fellow angler is certainly on it. We understand that amateur anglers can make innocent mistakes, so our guides can help to make sure you follow the proper procedures on the Colorado River. In fact, fishing areas with an abundance of guides tend to run more smoothly and instill a more respectful atmosphere. There are a few things to think about before your trip.

First and foremost, anglers must respect the space of others, whether they happen to be fishing or not. Fishing spots are claimed on a first-come, first-served. If you come across a group of anglers in a desired area, you’ll need to either wait or move on. While it’s always a nice gesture to give up a productive fishing area after you’ve enjoyed it for some time, it’s never required.

If you find it necessary to approach or pass another group or individual, be sure to do it very carefully. Pay attention to the direction they’re casting in and leave plenty of space so as not to spoil the water they’re fishing in. Wade only when necessary, keeping in mind that fish can be rattled quite easily, even with shadows from above or far-away vibrations. Upstream travelers always have priority over downstream ones. However, an angler with a fish on his line is always considered to have the right of way.

Conversation on the river is a sensitive subject, and every angler is different. Don’t bother a stranger with small-talk unless it’s clearly wanted. At the same time, if you’re in doubt of a fellow anglers plans, you should always ask. Similarly, do everything you can to communicate your own plans with others, possibly even leaving notes where appropriate. Remember to offer advice to other anglers only if asked, and to always politely. Even if a someone is breaking etiquette, try to be nice about it.

As exciting as a fishing trip with your buddies might be, don’t act like you’re in the end-zone seats at a football game. If someone else can unwillingly hear you, you’re probably being too loud. Watch your choice of language in case of younger, impressionable anglers. Don’t litter and be careful with any source of fire. And if you see a sign that says “No Trespassing”, obey it. Common sense goes a long way, and good behavior shouldn’t keep you from having a good time

While respect to other anglers is important, respecting the fish you’re targeting is another key to proper etiquette. Pinch down barbs on hooks if they have them, and make sure your net and hands are good and wet before they encounter a fish. Once you’ve got the fish properly handled, be careful not to squeeze or poke it in sensitive areas. When throwing fish back into the river, photograph it as you wish and get it back in the water as quickly as you can. If a hook is stuck, cut the line and throw the fish back before it suffers too much.

Proper standards of etiquette allows all anglers to be on common ground, and to have a more enjoyable overall trip. Fishing Lee’s Ferry with Marble Canyon Outfitters will help you to stay within the unwritten rules and have a great trip at the same time.

For More Details, Visit Home at http://www.LeesFerryFlyFishing.com

Five Benefits of Using Fly-Fishing Guides

1. Know Where to Find Fish

For guides, fishing is a full time job that provides intimate knowledge of where to find the most amount of fish under different weather conditions and at different times of day. Even experienced anglers can benefit from a guides familiarity with a particular fishing location. You’ll catch more fish, which is the point of it all anyway, right?

2. Ensure Proper Technique

While the cast in fly-fishing is a true art, it requires a great amount of technique to be precise and effective. Guides can provide indispensable training on the fly to help you have a more productive day, and become a better angler in the process. Working with an expert provides comfort that you’re doing things the right way.

3. Improve Fly Selection

The presentation of the fly to a fish is meant to simulate the delicate approach of insects to the water. This makes the selection of a fly crucial, and dependent on a variety of shifting factors. Fly-fishing guides know which flies to use where, when, and for which fish.

4. Always Have The Best Equipment

Using fly fishing guides keeps you from having to stay current with the best fishing equipment and the expertise to operate it. Most important of all, the boat, which most anglers would have to rent anyway, is included. While there is a list of equipment that each angler must provide, you can focus more on items that serve your personal fishing needs.

5. Enjoy Your Trip!

All of these factors combined lead to less worry and planning time for your fly-fishing expedition. You’ll feel more free to enjoy the trip, and in the case of Lee’s Ferry, the beautiful Colorado river and its surrounding landscape.

For the best fly-fishing guides at Lee’s Ferry, contact Marble Canyon Outfitters to plan your trip today.

For More Details, Visit Home at http://www.LeesFerryFlyFishing.com

Lee's Ferry Fly Fishing for Beginners: Assembling the Tackle

Those looking to start fly-fishing are likely already experienced in spin fishing. Because of the differing techniques, aspiring anglers will need to put together a new tackle before practicing their cast. These are the parts that you’ll need to become familiar with.

Rods

Much like the baton of a symphony conductor, anglers see their rods as extensions of their bodies, an appendage used to direct a graceful work of art. They come in 2-piece, 3-piece, and 4-piece varieties depending on how portable the rod needs to be when unassembled. Longer fly rods provide better line control, but are difficult to maneuver in small spaces. Most beginners start with a medium weight.

Reels

Fly reels hold the line. The mechanisms involved with pulling in a catch are usually the most important factors when shopping for reels. Some are more sensitive than others are, and each reel has a different drag system to keep a potential catch from swimming away. You’ll also need to decide whether you’ll be reeling in with your left or right hand. There is more than one method of handling a reel, so ask a knowledgeable shopkeeper to show you different ways, and decide which one feels best.

Fly Line

This is what most differentiates fly-fishing from the more common spin fishing. Different fly lines are ideal depending on what type of fish you are targeting. Also, fly line needs to be properly paired with the rod. Unlike lines used in spin fishing, fly lines provide the weight needed to deliver the bait. Due to its goal of mimicking the landing of an insect to lure a fish, this delivery is referred to as the “presentation”. Fly lines should be cleaned between uses.

Fly Leader

The fly leader essentially extends the fly line, although with a special shape and material for a more delicate and convincing presentation.  It can be tied to the fly line by hand, and should also be chosen based on the specific type of fishing you will use it for.

Flies

All of these feet upon feet of rod and fly line end, after a good cast, with the presentation of the fly. The fly should be a replica of a native insect appealing to the type of fish. It’s attached to the tippet at the end of the fly leader.

For a truly awesome experience with some of the best fly-fishing you can imagine, take a guided tour with Marble Canyon Outfitters this season. For More Details, Visit Home at http://www.LeesFerryFlyFishing.com