fishing basics Archives

What is Fly Fishing?

Posted on March 15, 2024March 15, 2024 Oscar Gipson

Fly fishing is a timeless angling technique that has captivated enthusiasts for centuries. Unlike traditional methods that rely on weighted lures to cast lines, fly fishing employs lightweight artificial flies made of feathers, fur, and synthetic materials. This unique approach requires anglers to delicately present the fly, mimicking the natural movements of insects on the water’s surface. Fly fishing is not just a sport; it’s an art form that demands patience, skill, and an understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

The Essence of Fly Fishing

At its core, fly fishing is about more than just the catch; it’s about immersing oneself in nature and embracing the serenity of the great outdoors. Whether wading through a pristine river or casting from the banks of a tranquil lake, fly fishing offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world. The rhythmic motion of casting, the soothing sound of water flowing over rocks, and the anticipation of a strike create a sense of tranquility and mindfulness that is unmatched in any other outdoor pursuit.

The Craft of Fly Tying

Photo Courtesy of Old Town Canoe – Johnson Outdoors

Central to the art of fly fishing is the craft of fly tying. Fly tying is the process of creating artificial flies that imitate the appearance and behavior of natural insects and baitfish. Anglers meticulously select materials such as feathers, fur, and synthetic fibers to craft lifelike imitations that entice fish to strike. Tying is not only a practical skill but also a creative pursuit that allows anglers to experiment with different patterns and designs, customizing them to suit specific conditions and imitating the prey species that fish are feeding on.

Beyond its practical application, fly tying serves as a form of artistic expression for many anglers, who take pride in crafting intricate patterns and mastering the techniques of this ancient art. Whether tying classic patterns passed down through generations or inventing new creations inspired by nature, the tying process is a deeply rewarding aspect of the fly-fishing experience.

The Thrill of the Catch

While the catch is undoubtedly exciting, the true thrill of fly fishing lies in the process itself. Whether casting dry flies to lure in trout on a summer evening or drifting nymphs through fast-flowing riffles, each scenario presents its own set of challenges and rewards. From reading the water and understanding fish behavior to selecting the right fly and executing the perfect cast, fly fishing offers a constant opportunity for growth and learning. It’s a sport that encourages anglers to push their boundaries, hone their skills, and embrace the joy of the chase.

Fly fishing is not just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that fosters a deep appreciation for nature and a sense of camaraderie among fellow anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice angler, this activity offers endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and connection with the natural world. So grab your gear, head to the water, and let the magic of fly fishing take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

How to Fish in New Water

Posted on April 12, 2022April 8, 2022 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of Freshwater Vacation Rentals

If you’re a lake homeowner and angler, chances are, you know your lake very well. You know exactly what time to wake up to get on the water, you know what times the fish are biting, and you know what sloughs to try for good luck. However, when you’re exploring a new lake for the first time, you might feel uncertain. How do you know where to start? Whether it’s a large or small lake, the same rules tend to apply for fishing in new water.

Do Your Research Beforehand

Before you arrive, learn as much about the lake as you can! The internet is a wealth of knowledge with maps of topography, online resources, and blog posts. Additionally, there are plenty of videos (like this one for Lake of the Ozarks) of anglers who are familiar with your lake area. Locally, you can also gather intel from your neighborhood bait shop or other community lake resources.

Assess the Season and Temperature

Without knowing a new lake, you can rely on the general rules of seasonality and temperature, which play a huge role in the location of fish — no matter the lake! It’s important to consider both factors, as they intersect with one another. In winter, fish seek out the warmest waters available. Due to lake stratification, the warmest spot on cold days is at the bottom of the water. However, if there’s a spike in temperature, they’ll swim toward the center of the lake. In spring and summertime, it’s best not to fish in deep water when instead, fish will be spawning in shallower areas.

Pay Attention to Environmental Micro-Changes

The best anglers know that these rules about seasonality are simply guiding principles, rather than infallible truths. It’s just as important to keep a keen eye on the micro-changes in the environment — the day-to-day differences on the lake. For instance, if you’re in a heatwave but there’s a sudden cloudy day, fish will take the opportunity to feed, which in turn, is an excellent opportunity for you to fish. Micro-changes also include adjustments in water level. For instance, when water levels rise, fish gravitate closer to the shallow shoreline waters.

Know Your Type of Bait Fish

On any lake, an essential part of fishing is knowing what bait to use. On an unfamiliar lake, the best way to gauge this is by observing the baitfish that your target is already chasing after. Have you noticed a group of minnows around the dock? Or white suckers swarming in one particular slough? These observations clue you into what your target fish is after, and you can choose similar bait that will lure them in.

Take a Bird’s Eye View

When fishing in new water, many anglers make the common mistake of stopping at one intriguing area of the lake. They see a slough they like, turn off the motor, and stay there. However, there are many benefits to surveying a larger portion of the lake first! This tactic will help you understand the lake on a holistic level, learn the ideal hiding spots for fish, and ultimately improve your ability to quickly understand and fish on a new lake.

We hope these tips help you reel in more fish, as you explore your next lake area!

Best Practices for Catch and Release Fishing

Posted on September 18, 2020January 13, 2021 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of the National Park Service.

Fish and wildlife experts disagree on the ethics of catch and release fishing. According to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), it’s cruel. Their opinion is backed by the research of scientists like James Rose, who told the New York Times that fish do feel a little pain.

However, proponents of catch and release fishing assert its conservation benefits. According to the National Parks Service, it allows more native fish to remain in the water and reproduce in the ecosystem. Some lakes such as Deerfield Lake and Westcolang Lake only allow catch and release fishing for this reason. Whatever your stance on this controversy, if you decide to try it, it’s important to do it properly to decrease fish mortality risk.

We talked with Greg Gerlich, assistant regional director for the fish and aquatic conservation program in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to learn best practices. Based on his expertise and research as a fish biologist, he feels that “done properly, catch and release can be a way to enjoy fishing, particularly for people who don’t want to harvest the fish. It’s also very rewarding.”

So, before grabbing your fishing rod, consider these best practices for catch and release fishing.

Stick to Active Fishing

As opposed to passive fishing (e.g., nets, longlines, and traps), active fishing involves intentionally watching your contraption (e.g., fishing hooks and seining). With active methods, fish are less likely to swallow the bait and stay on the hook for too long. This is safer because when anglers are consciously paying attention to their bait, it’s easier to bring in a fish quickly and release it.

Gerlich adds, “Another key point is that you don’t want to overplay the fish and fight to exhaustion. It’s also important to make sure your line is sufficient weight and quality to bring in fish quickly.” Essentially, active fishing helps with speed and reaction time. The faster you can reel in the fish, the faster you can release it.

Limit the Fish’s Time Out of Water

To reduce the fish’s stress and ensure survival, minimize its time out of water. This shorter interval involves thinking ahead of time. Get your line, tackle, and bait in order, pre-plan your photograph, and make sure your hands are wet to reduce the loss of the fish’s protective mucus. Then, lift the fish efficiently for a quick photo and immediately release it into the water.

A few tools can help enable a quicker release. According to the National Parks Service, artificial lures are the best choice for catch and release fishing because the hooks are easier to remove. Barbless hooks are much easier to remove. Plus, according to one Florida study on snappers and groupers, there’s no difference in catch rates between barbed and barbless hooks. Overall, stay mindful of handling the fish as little as possible.

Keep the Species in Mind

The impact of catch and release fishing differs depending on your lake’s biodiversity. Gerlich warns, “You don’t want to practice on species in water that is pushing their psychological tolerance.” One example is trout fishing. According to Gerlich, water above 70 degrees negatively impacts trout, especially if they’re stressed. Avoid trout fishing in these warm waters.

Similar precautions apply to fish that reside in deep water. A deep-water fish has limited time to acclimate to each water stratification level when you’re reeling them in. According to South Carolina Coastal Resources, this is called “barotrauma,” referring to a body part or organ’s injury due to sudden changes in barometric pressure. Snapper and grouper are most commonly affected by barotrauma. To remedy this, use descending devices to return fish to their homes at lower depths.

Do Your Research

If you aren’t sure what precautions to take for the fish in your lake, educate yourself. If you’re on a private lake, talk to the homeowners association and connect with other anglers. If you’re on public waters, contact the state’s fish and wildlife management agency and your local fisheries.

Especially if you’ve just bought a lake home and you’re new to the area, it’s important to inquire about best catch and release practices in your area. Gerlich adds that sporting stores and fly fishing shops are excellent resources for anglers too. “It’s their business to know what fish are out there,” he says of guides at fly fishing stores.

Are you an avid angler at your lake house? What other catch and release fishing practices have you adopted?

Guide to Fishing Basics

Posted on February 28, 2015November 18, 2022 Glenn S. Phillips

Fishing can be a fun recreational activity or even a great way to make a great homemade meal. Whatever your reasons are, you will need to know some fishing basics before you get started.

Purchase Your Gear

Before you can do anything fishing related, you must get your fishing license.

If you go to your state’s website, they should have a direct link to the Department of Fish and Wildlife or Department of Natural Resources and find out what the process is to obtaining a fishing license. It typically costs around $10 to purchase your license.

You will obviously need a rod and reel. Start with a basic rod and a spincasting reel as it is the most beginner friendly. You will also need some bait which can be anything from a can of worms or crickets to fake worms or jigs.

Picking a Good Fishing Spot

Stop by a local sporting goods store or ask some local fishermen in the area where the best fishing spots are. Sometimes municipal parks have fish in their ponds that they allow anyone with a license to fish. Find a spot, but be mindful of others and do not crowd other fishermen.

Catch a Fish!

If you do not know how to tie a hook onto your line, your best bet is to bring an experienced fishing friend with you. Ask them to teach you how to do a clinch knot which is simple and best for beginners.

Keep or Throw Back

The first step in learning when to keep or release is measuring the size of your fish. You can typically tell by the size immediately if it is one that you want to keep. You might also want to purchase a fish identification guide to help you to determine what kind of fish to keep. If it is going to give you bragging rights with your buddies, it is probably a keeper.

If you are a beginner fisherman, educate yourself before you get into the real deal of fishing. If you have a friend make sure you bring him/her along with you.