Alaskan Fishing Trips – Pristine Fishing Getaway

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I still remember my first of many Alaskan fishing trips.  I was in my early 20s, and a buddy of mine had connections with a construction company that won a bid to build a backcountry fishing lodge in a remote corner of Alaska.  He told me that the work would be hard, but it would pay well.  I didn’t have any plans for that summer besides my crappy job that I hated anyway, so I figured I might as well sign up.  The other benefit he mentioned was that we could fish any time we were off.  We are both avid fly fishermen, as were some of the other crew members, so that was a no-brainer for me.

Alaska

I quit my job and spent the summer building a lodge and adjacent detached smaller cabins way off the beaten path.  All our equipment had to be flown in, and we were completely cut off from civilization.  It was awesome!  The work was hard and tiring, but it was amazing how much energy I had left when it came time to fish.  Summers in Alaska have the advantage of not really ever running out of daylight.  After work, we would all get our gear on and head down to the local river and fish for as long as we could.  Every day for about 3 months, I fished for at least an hour.

Now you can hardly call that fishing experience a vacation, because of the daily work schedule, which ended up being something like 12 hour work days.  But for me, I had a hard time telling myself that I was working.  The location was stunning.  We were surrounded by snow capped peaks, and there was literally not another human being for hundreds of miles.  Being able to fish everyday, even though my body ached and was ready to sleep, made the summer more of a vacation than a work assignment.

Since then, I have tried to return to Alaska every few years.  But now, I just go for the fishing.  That summer, I caught trout and salmon on a daily basis.  I learned a lot about the habitat and the different salmon runs.  On each of my return Alaska fishing trips, I feel like I have an advantage over other fishing tourists, because I spent 3 straight months fly fishing the backcountry.  I made so many great memories that summer, and each time I return, they come back.

Planning Alaskan Fishing Trips

There are many different Alaskan fishing trips locations to choose from.  It really depends on what kind of fishing you want to be doing.  If you are an avid fly fisherman, you will want to plan a backcountry fly fishing adventure, including fly-in fishing.  If you like deep sea fishing, there are miles and miles of coast line to troll and explore while you fish for halibut and sea run salmon.  You will need to determine your destination first, then plan Alaskan fishing trips lodging and other accommodations.

One great way to do it is by planning all inclusive Alaskan fishing trips.  These trip packages will include travel, lodging, meals, and guide/charter services.  What you get when doing this is peace of mind from having to plan several different aspects of your trip, as well as cheap Alaskan fishing trips packages to choose from.  Bundled plans will always save money in the long run.  Of course, the best Alaskan fishing trips will offer all of this at a discount, with great amenities and accommodations.

Shop around to find the best deal.  Read some customer reviews online to learn of the company’s quality of service.  And above all, get ready for a relaxing, peaceful, and pristine fishing getaway to Alaska!  Happy fishing.

Abu Garcia Reels – Thoughts And Reviews

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There are many different companies on the market today that produce high-value and high-quality fishing reels. Shimano, Daiwa, Okuma, Penn, Abel, and Shakespeare are a few of them that come to mind. When considering fishing reels that serve dual purpose in freshwater and saltwater, one company really stands out. Abu Garcia is that company, and below you’ll find my thoughts and small product reviews on some of their new fishing reel lines.

Abu Garcia is a company that started off in Sweden in the early 1920s producing watches and other timing devices, such as taxi meters and telephone timers. The founder’s son was a fishing enthusiast, and during World War II when demand for the timing devices they created dropped off, the company moved towards creating fishing reels. Their most popular fishing reel line, the Ambassadeur series, was first introduced in 1964, and remains one of the most popular baitcasting reel models on the market today.

Abu Garcia has obviously been around the block. They have a lot of time and experience in creating high-quality fishing reels. But just because a company has been around for a long time doesn’t necessarily mean that they are keeping up with technology. Let’s look at a few of the newer Abu Garcia lines of fishing reels to see if this company has kept up with the competition in terms of implementing lighter, sleeker, and more advanced materials on their reels.

Abu Garcias reels can be broken down into these categories:

  • round baitcasting
  • low-profile baitcasting
  • spinning

Baitcasting Reels

Abu Garcia has round big game and baitcasting reels, and breaks their low profile baitcasting reels into three lines: Revo, Orra, and Max.

Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Classic

The Abu Garcia Ambassadeur C3 Classic is a round baitcasting reel that is the newest in their most successful and popular fishing reel line throughout the years. This fishing reel offers Abu Garcia’s trademarked Carbon Matrix Drag System, which features a three ball bearing core with instant anti-reverse attributes and six pin centrifugal brake. This drag system is one of the smoothest on the market today. Coming in at between 9.3 and 11.3 ounces depending on the model, it is very lightweight and sleek. The Ambassadeur series is a freshwater and saltwater baitcasting reel, and can be used effectively for medium-sized ocean species. I have owned my Ambassadeur C3 fishing reel for going on 10 years now, and have not had any problems with it. I have fished successfully in freshwater and saltwater applications, and this reel just keeps on going. Scan a few other online reviews of this reel, and you are likely to see the same story about the performance and durability. Priced at around $100, you will not find a better long-term investment than this baitcasting reel.  Click here or the picture below to see the price, read more review, or purchase this reel.

Abu Garcia 6500C3 Ambassadeur C3 Baitcast Round Reel (3 Ball-Bearing, Gear Ratio 5.3:1, Capacity 14/245)

Abu Garcia Revo MGX

The Abu Garcia Revo MGX is a low-profile baitcasting reel that pushes the limits of ultralight fishing gear. Coming in at just 5.4 ounces, it’s hard to believe that this fishing reel is loaded with features. First of all, the reel is made from a single piece of patented alloy, which does not sacrifice strength. Carbon side plates and aircraft grade aluminum gears round out the rest of the reel with strong lightweight construction. The same trademarked Carbon Matrix Drag System as found in the Ambassadeur series is also used on the Revo MGX. There are 9+1 (yes, count them 10) stainless steel anti corrosion ball bearings included in this reel, providing a butter smooth action. Did I mention that it only weighs 5.4 ounces? I am somewhat of a stickler when it comes to the weight of my fishing gear. But ever since I purchased this reel, it’s hard for me to use anything else. Priced at around $350, it is definitely not for everyone. More budget minded anglers might be better suited purchasing the lower priced Revo S or Revo SX. But if you’re looking to shave ounces off of your rig while not sacrificing quality, the Revo MGX might be the reel for you.

Abu Garcia Hi Speed Revo MGX Low Profile Baitcast Reel (12-Pound/115-Yard)

Abu Garcia Orra Inshore

The Abu Garcia Orra Inshore low-profile baitcasting reel falls between the Revo and Max lines of reels. Priced at around $130, you will likely not find a better saltwater baitcasting reel for the money. With six stainless steel high-performance anti corrosion ball bearings, Carbon Matrix hybrid drag system, a corrosion resistant alloy frame, a pitch centrifugal brake for greater cast control, and brass gears for a long, durable life, this reel is simply loaded with features. Weighing just 8.8 ounces and with a larger spool capacity, this low-profile reel is ideal for hard running saltwater fish. When it comes to weight, it’s pretty hard to beat the Revo MGX, but this reel does not cause fatigue when fighting heavy sea fish all day long. It is a great option and great value for the price.

Abu Garcia Orra Inshore Low Profile Baitcast Reel (12-Pound / 175-Yards)

Abu Garcia Black Max

The Abu Garcia Black Max is a low-profile baitcasting reel that might be one of the best values on the market. Priced at around $50, it is hard to beat the features and price included in this package. As part of the Max line of bait casting reels, the Abu Garcia Black Max might not be as light as the Revo MGX or as popular as the Ambassadeur C3, but it certainly doesn’t lack for features. There are 7+1 stainless steel ball bearings included in this reel, offering a smooth action. The internal gears are made of brass, increasing the life and durability of the reel. The frame is made of graphite, which is not as durable as the alloy used in the Revo MGX, but is lightweight and economical. Abu Garcia markets the Max line as ‘maximum performance and value.’  Click here or the picture below to read other customer reviews, view prices, or to purchase this fantastic reel!

Abu Garcia Black Max Low Profile Baitcast Reel (12-Pound/145-Yard)

Spinning Reels

When it comes to spinning reels, Abu Garcia breaks their options up into three different lines: Revo, Orra, and Cardinal.

Abu Garcia Revo Premier

The Abu Garcia Revo Premier is Abu Garcia’s top-of-the-line spinning reel. Priced at around $250, and weighing between 7 and 9 ounces depending on the model, this reel offers a lightweight high-performance competition to the market. This reel is similar in features, price, and weight of the Shimano Stradic line. The Revo Premier does have 10 anti-corrosion ball bearings which offer a very smooth action. The body and spool are made of a new Nano Shield technology that allows the materials to be 300% stronger than graphite but 50% lighter than aluminum. If you are looking for high-performance, this is Abu Garcia’s spinning reel to invest in.

Abu Garcia Revo Premier Spinning Reel (8-Pound / 130-Yards)

Abu Garcia Orra SX

The Abu Garcia Orra SX spinning reel is a more affordable option to the Revo Premier. Priced at around $100 (and $79 for the Orra S), there are still a lot of features for the money. Included are 8+1 anti-corrosion stainless steel ball bearings, Carbon Matrix Drag System, brass gears for extended life, and a corrosion resistant alloy frame for use in fresh or saltwater. If you are a stickler on weight like I am, this reel might seem a bit on the heavy side. But for the price, you can’t go wrong.

Abu Garcia Orra SX Spinning Reel (4-Pound/135-Yard)

Abu Garcia Cardinal 400i

The Cardinal series of Abu Garcia spinning reels are meant for budget minded anglers. With the 100i priced at $35, the 300i priced at $40, and the 400i priced at $50, there are a few different options available. The main difference between these three models is the number of bearings included. The 100i has 4 bearings, the 300i has five bearings, and the 400i includes 7 different bearings. The 400i is also significantly lighter than the 100i model. These fishing reels are basic and are not as high-quality as some competition on the market, such as the Shimano Spirex (which costs around $50, the same as the 400i model). If you are just starting off in fishing and need a cheap spinning reel, there’s no reason not to get a reel from this line.

Abu Garcia Cardinal 400i Series Spinning Reel, 10-Pound/210-Yard

Thoughts

I’m a big fan of Abu Garcia baitcasting reels. They really shine when used for larger fish and saltwater applications. As mentioned above, the Revo MGX has been one of my favorite baitcasting reels that I’ve ever used. I haven’t owned it for very long, so we’ll see if it lasts as long as the Ambassadeur C3s that I have fished for around 10 years. Abu Garcia spinning reels are not bad, but I find that Daiwa and Shimano compete very well in that category, and often have more options available. One thing is sure: Abu Garcia knows how to make high-quality fishing reels. Their top-of-the-line reels may not be very affordable, but they perform as well or better than any that I’ve ever used. To answer the question posed at the beginning of this article, I believe that Abu Garcia has definitely kept up with, if not surpassed, the competition in terms of implementing new technologies and materials on their fishing reels. Hopefully these Abu Garcia reviews will help you if you are on the market for either a new baitcasting or spinning reel. Be sure to shop around to find the best deals on Abu Garcia reels for sale. And as always, happy fishing!

Here is a list of similar articles that might help you out in your search for a saltwater fishing reel.

  • Abu-Garcia’s – Revo Toro Winch – The Rambling Fisherman | The … – Abu-Garcia’s Revo Toro Winch. Level wind reels (LWR) seem to be the standard reel that are being used on the Vancouver Island rivers for steelhead and salmon. LWR’s are great because they cast easily, they allow for free …
  • “NEW” Abu Garcia Revo MGX « James Caldemeyer – Such users will be banned from commenting on this site. “NEW” Abu Garcia Revo MGX. Posted: November 26, 2011 in Fishing Gear, Videos Tags: Abu Garcia, james caldemeyer, lake fork, reel, Revo · 0. Share this: Share. Facebook · Twitter …

Terminal Fly Fishing Tackle – More Important Than You Might Think

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As you might have noticed, I write a lot of articles about fly fishing on this website.  The fact is, I absolutely love fly fishing.  It is one of my favorite hobbies, and I am absolutely a junkie for anything related to it.  If I’m not actually fly fishing, I’m writing about it, tying flies for my next trip, or shopping for some new gear or accessories to try out.  I have been lucky enough to have family members who also enjoy it, and have made many friends who will drop what they are doing to go wet their line with me.  Below, I will talk a little about the importance of terminal fly fishing tackle to your efficiency on the water.

I have noticed that over the years, my approach to fly fishing has shifted from being obsessed with the technical aspects (casting, retrieving) to being more focused on the fly fishing tackle that I am using.  Techniques won’t catch fish alone, and I have found that choosing the right fly and using the right sized tippet will do a lot more for landing a fish than a perfect fly presentation.  Fish are more forgiving, I have learned, if the terminal tackle (fly, leader, tippet) is right, even if the presentation might be a bit sloppy.

I am not saying that casting techniques shouldn’t be mastered, or you don’t have to be careful when casting to finicky fish.  All I am saying is that I believe that choosing the right tackle is more important than just about anything else in fly fishing, including the cast and presentation.

I also believe that choosing the right fly fishing tackle takes more time to learn and master than casting said tackle to a feeding fish.  Most anglers refer to this as ‘matching the hatch,’ but tackle refers to more than just the fly pattern.  Terminal tackle includes your leader, tippet material, any strike indicator or weight that is used, and the manner in which you apply your fly floatant (to some extent).  All of these items need to be incorporated in the most natural way possible, and they will all affect how the fish views your presentation.

Fly Fishing Tackle – Terminal Requirements

Lets look at the leader and tippet, for example, since I have already talked about the importance of matching the hatch with trout flies in other articles.  The leader and tippet material provide an even taper from your fly line to your fly.  Your leader will start out thick at the junction with the fly line, and taper down to a specific diameter, which depends on the size.  These sizes are given a number with an ‘X’ designation, such as 3X, 4X, or 5X.  Lower numbers have a thicker terminal diameter than higher numbers.  Tippet material will have a consistent diameter, which also corresponds to the number associated with it (the same as leader).

Now that the number designation is explained, choosing the right size of leader and tippet needs to be addressed.  The size of the leader and tippet relates to its strength.  The higher the number, the thinner the diameter, and therefore the weaker its strength.  This strength involves not only the ability to withstand big fish, but the ability to turn over heavier flies, possibly with weights.  Higher numbered leaders and tippet material is best suited for casting small dry flies on small streams for smaller fish.  The opposite is also true (larger numbers = larger flies and larger fish).

One more thing to consider here:  the thicker the leader and tippet material, the more likely the fish will be able to see it.  On spring creeks and other streams with high clarity, fish might be spooked by thicker leaders.  Backing off a few numbers will decrease your overall visibility and make your presentation look more natural, but will also decrease the overall strength of your setup.  You will need to be more careful with your hooksets, and you will need to play the fish more rather than dragging it towards your net.

Don’t Forget The Natural Fly Fishing Tackle Look

I can’t stress enough the importance of natural looking fly fishing tackle.  The more natural it looks to the fish, the more likely they are to take your fly.  If you are on the market for cheap fly fishing tackle, be sure to look for online fly fishing tackle shops.  You will be able to shop around and compare prices better than if you were to shop your local fly fishing tackle shop.  For increased organization, be sure to invest in a fly fishing tackle box or fly fishing tackle bag.  And as always, happy fishing!

The Importance Of A High Quality Saltwater Fishing Reel

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Have you ever gone fishing in salt water with a fishing reel that you thought was a saltwater fishing reel, only to discover later that it really wasn’t a reel suitable for the sea at all?  I have.  I took a reel that was marketed as a universal fishing reel, capable of being used in fresh or salt water, on a trip to the Florida Keys to fish for tarpon.  The reel was a little undersized for the big fish I was after, but performed OK at first.  The first big fish I hooked into went on a blistering run and apparently the drag couldn’t keep up and the line snapped.  I borrowed a friend’s reel the rest of the trip.

A few days later, I checked on that reel again and found that it was starting to show corrosion on the outside.  If it was already showing corrosion on the outside, then it was probably rusting on the inside as well, so I pitched it.  Since then, I have been very careful when choosing a saltwater fishing reel.  There are a few things you should consider as well.

Characteristics Of A High-Quality Saltwater Fishing Reel

First of all, the reel needs to be made of high quality, heavy duty materials.  The fish you are going after in the sea have a much wider range of size than freshwater species.  The fish are simply bigger and stronger and have a lot more room to run.  The reel needs to be able to stand up to this type of punishment.

Secondly, the reel needs to be made of corrosion resistant materials.  Salt water is more damaging to metal than fresh water.  Remember that just because a reel is marketed as a saltwater reel doesn’t mean it really is.  Get some feedback from other anglers or talk to some fishing reel experts at your local tackle shop.  You could even read some customer reviews online.

Lastly, you will need to make sure the reel you get has a high quality drag system.  This is very important, and shouldn’t be looked over.  The heavy, powerful fish that you will be pursuing at sea can go on swift runs, pulling the line through your drag system at blistering speeds.  If you skimp on your reel and go with a sub-par drag system, you will be leaving yourself open to losing fish.  When looking for a high quality drag system, the more ball bearings, the better.  It needs to be smooth, but able to add resistance to the fleeing fish in order to wear them out.

Best Saltwater Fishing Reel Brands

There are many different brands of saltwater fishing reels on the market.  Some of the bigger names include Abel, Abu Garcia, Shimano, Sea Striker, Okuma, Penn, and Daiwa.  I like the Okuma Cedros that is featured in the video above because of its versatility.  Abu Garcia makes quite a few high quality saltwater baitcasting reels, so check out this article for more information.  If you are on the market for a high quality saltwater fishing reel, it is important that you read some saltwater fishing reel reviews to get a better idea of the quality of the craftsmanship.  It is always good to get other opinions, and reviews offer insights from other anglers that have purchased and used them.

Okuma Cedros CLD-10S Lever Drag Saltwater Fishing Reel

Shopping Tips For Saltwater Fishing Reels

A great way to save money when shopping for these items is to look for them used.  Ebay is a great place to look for a used saltwater fishing reel.  You can bid on the items and often win an auction for a fraction of the retail price.  Check your local classifieds as well.  Buying used has its disadvantages, however, so make sure you will be able to check the quality of the reel before the sale is final.  You definitely don’t want to buy a broken reel.

Hopefully, this article has been a saltwater fishing reel guide if you are looking to buy one.  Make sure you follow these tips so you don’t have a saltwater fishing experience like me.  Get the best saltwater fishing reel you can, and rest assured that it won’t fail you when a big fish strikes.  Happy fishing!

Choosing Deep Sea Fishing Charters

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For many anglers, getting away from the land and fishing out at sea is the only way to go.  Deep sea fishing is one of the most soothing fishing experiences out there in my opinion.  What better way to get away from all the cares of the world then literally getting away form them!  Deep sea fishing not only allows you to remove yourself form the stresses of the day to day grind, but allows you to pursue and catch large fish.  The ocean is home to countless species of fish ranging from barracuda and tuna to swordfish and marlin.  The most popular method for catching the larger species is by trolling for them, but fishing off the side of a stationary boat is another option. Below, we will talk about tips to finding the best deep sea fishing charters on the market for your next fishing trip at sea.

Plan Your Deep Sea Fishing Trip

There are a few things to keep in mind when planning a deep sea fishing trip.  You will first need to choose a location.  This can be off the coast of Alaska or Florida or California.  The type of fishing you want to do will partially determine where you end up going.  Once you have chosen your location, it is important to plan well in advance and find a charter company to hire.  In a tourist fishing destination like Alaska, there are so many different charter companies to choose from that it might be difficult to make a decision.  This is where reading some deep sea fishing charters reviews will help you out.  These reviews will help you to see what other anglers liked and disliked about the services provided.  These reviews can usually be found on fishing forums and travel websites.

Find The Best Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Finding deep sea fishing charters that fall within your budget will take some careful searching.  Try searching for a deep sea fishing charters guide online, and compare the prices between the different options.  Some packages will include lodging, meals and other accommodations, especially if they involve deep sea fishing charters in Alaska.  Because Alaska is off the beaten path, many Alaska deep sea fishing charters will bundle accommodations with the fishing to make your travel coordination easier.

My favorite deep sea fishing trip was off the coast of Alaska.  I caught some enormous halibut and a few different species of salmon.  It was not only a great fishing experience because of the number of fish I caught and the size of them, but the scenery was magnificent and breathtaking.  Deep sea fishing is a wonderful way to get away from the cares of the world.  Whether you are planning on fishing for Alaskan halibut or deep sea marlin, be sure to do your homework and find the best deals and services when it comes to deep sea fishing charters.  Happy fishing!

Get Away To A World Class Fly Fishing Destination

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Fly fishermen typically portray wanderlust type characteristics.  This is easily apparent by the fact that they often wander the shores of a river or stream in search of the next hole just around the corner.  I can second this notion, and can see this characteristic in my own fly fishing behavior.  I will often get tired quickly of a stretch of water and will almost yearn to fish a stretch out of sight around a bend upstream.

Fly fishing is the perfect fit for anglers that can’t sit still in a boat.  The gear and accessories that are utilized in this sport cater to the ability to seamlessly move around without having to go back for a new fly or other tool.  If you are stricken by this wanderlust characteristic, you might consider taking up fly fishing.  There is never a dull moment if there is ample water to search and cast into.

For many fly anglers, exploring new waters is a great way to spend an afternoon fishing.  Fishing the same holes and stretches of water can get old.  That is where getting away to fly fishing destination options around the country and world can bring a new excitement into this sport.  There are many fly fishing destinations around that world that are considered world class, including Alaska, New Zealand, and Chile.  What many American fly anglers don’t realize is that there are world class fly fishing streams and rivers in the lower 48 states as well, and they might be right in your backyard.

Alaska Fly Fishing Destinations

Alaska is considered by many anglers as the fishing Mecca of the world.  There is not only deep sea fishing for halibut and salmon along the hundreds of miles of coastline, but countless backcountry rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes full of native species of trout and grayling to cast to, not to mention the epic runs up the rivers by the five different species of salmon.  Because of the remote nature and natural beauty of this fishing paradise, Alaska fly fishing destinations rank in the top locations in the world.

New Zealand Fly Fishing Destinations

New Zealand is another destination for fly anglers to explore.  The crystal clear rivers and streams of this small south pacific island are home to large native brown trout that fight aggressively.  The blue color of the water is almost unreal to behold, and the long flight to this fishing paradise is worth it just to get a glimpse of the natural beauty with your own eyes.  New Zealand fly fishing destinations will not disappoint in the quality of the fishing, the size of the fish, and the splendor of the scenery.

Chile Fly Fishing Destinations

Chile’s Patagonia is another premier fly fishing location in the world.  The rustic and rugged backcountry adventure that awaits you in this wild location might not offer the diverse wildlife that Alaska has to offer, but the quality of fishing is right up there with the best fishing in the world.  Native brown trout are the main draw here, and the blue waters are reminiscent of New Zealand.  The fact that there are few people around and a minimal civilization impact adds to the mystique of fishing and exploring the Patagonia.

I have been lucky enough to fly fish all of these locations in my life.  They all offer exactly what is described above – natural beauty, native species of large fish, and the ability to explore new waters.  What I have determined recently is that I don’t need to fly around the world to find world class fly fishing.  The lower 48 states offers a wide variety of US fly fishing destinations that can match these other ‘world class’ destinations in at least a few of the categories.  Let’s focus on the western states as an example.  Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, and Colorado are rocky mountain states that all have multiple blue ribbon trout streams.  I have been fortunate enough to live many years right in the middle of these many different western US fly fishing destinations, and I have not been disappointed.  The fact that some of these fantastic rivers are only a few hours drive away makes it very appealing to stay closer to home and explore new waters here.  I might not get the chance to fish alongside a grizzly bear or practice my Spanish, but the fishing I have found is every bit as good.

There are a lot of different destinations for fly anglers to get their exploration and wanderlust fixes appeased.  These include Alaska, Chile, and New Zealand, but also include many different rivers and streams in the lower 48 states of the US.  Look around and find some new waters to explore, and as always, happy fishing!

Choose The Proper Fly Fishing Equipment

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Fly fishing is one of the most visually stunning sports out there.  Not only are the hand tied flies a form of art, but the casting techniques used put on an amazing display of motion amid the beauty of nature.  Mastering the art forms used in fly fishing takes time and practice, along with an equal amount of patience and perseverance. It is also essential to utilize the proper fly fishing equipment, which we will discuss below the fly casting video.

It is important for a beginner to start off with the right equipment before diving into learning the complex casting techniques that are needed to become a successful fly angler.  There are many different types of fly fishing equipment that are needed, ranging from essential gear items like a fly rod and reel, to optional accessories and tools like knot tying tools and fly floatant.  Below is a link to a high quality Redington starter kit (highly recommended), and below that link is a fly fishing equipment guide to help you get started with the right gear.

Redington CT Classic Trout 9054 Fly Rod Outfit (9'0", 5wt, 4pc)

Fly Fishing Equipment Essentials

First of all, you will need a fly rod and reel.  These can be purchased as a combo (the Redington link above), or separately.  If buying them separately, make sure they are a matching weight rating.  The weight rating is a whole number that signifies the type of line that can be cast proficiently with the rod and reel combo.  Once you have a rod and reel that are the same weight rating, choose a line with the same rating.  There are many different fly lines available from sinking lines (for wet flies and nymphing) to floating lines (for dry fly fishing) with differing tapers (fly fishing line is discussed in depth at this link – Fly Fishing Line).

Once you have the right setup, you will need to focus on gathering an assortment of flies.  There are so many different trout flies and flies used for other species of fish.  Dry flies, wet flies, nymphs, streamers, poppers and bucktails can be used for most species of fish out there.  The best way to know what you will need is to study the waters that you regularly fish.  Find out what types of insects are present, and what the fish’s diet consists of.  As you learn what types of flies you will need, you can gather a supply of the different patterns that you can use.

If you plan on wading cold rivers, you might consider investing in a pair of waders and some wading boots.  For cold weather and cold water, neoprene waders will insulate your legs and keep you warm and dry.  For warmer weather wading, breathable waders work the best at allowing your legs to remain cool and dry.  The boots you use can come with rubber soles, felt soles or soles with metal studs for extra grip on slippery rocks.

There are many different accessories and tools that might also help you to catch more fish.  A fly fishing equipment list of accessories and tools might look something like this:

  • Hemostats
  • Nippers or clippers
  • Knot tying tool
  • Landing net
  • Wading staff
  • Fillet knife
  • Multi-tool
  • Thermometer
  • Fly floatant
  • Weights
  • Strike indicators
  • Fly boxes
  • Fly patch
  • Stomach pump
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Fishing hat
  • Camera

These are some popular accessories and tools that many fly anglers will utilize while on the water.  They are meant to help you to land more fish and spend less time fumbling around with tedious and time consuming tasks.  To organize and store all of these items on your person as you fly fish, get a fly fishing vest or fly fishing chest pack.  All of your essential gear will be within reach and neatly stored and organized.

Summary

These are some of the fly fishing equipment basics.  If you are just getting started into fly fishing, this list of fly fishing equipment for beginners should set you on the right path.  Before buying any piece of fly fishing gear, be sure to read plenty of fly fishing equipment reviews.  These reviews will allow you to see what other anglers liked and disliked about specific items.  They will help you to find the best deals on the market.

Once you have the proper gear, you will be able to effectively learn the complex skills and techniques that a fly fisherman must master to become successful.  Good luck assembling your fly fishing rig and learning the necessary skills.  Happy fishing!

Why Use A Fishing Guide?

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Growing up, I used to wake up early on Saturday mornings to watch fishing shows on ESPN and the Outdoor Network.  This used to bug my brothers to no end because I would beat them to the TV and they couldn’t watch cartoons.  I loved watching anything about fishing, from Jimmy Houston Outdoors to Fly Fishing The World.  Most of the TV shows that were about fishing included the use of an experienced fishing guide.  I learned at a young age to associate fishing success with the use of a seasoned guide.

Why Use A Fishing Guide?

I have since been on many different fishing trips across the country and into Alaska.  I notice that when I take the time and spend the money to hire a guide or charter service, I end up enjoying the experience more.  This is for a few reasons.  First, I catch more fish.  How can you not enjoy yourself more when you are landing more fish?  Second, I don’t have to think and strategize as much.  This reason is slightly complicated, but let me explain further.  If I were to go fly fishing alone to a river I have never fished before, it might take me a few hours to find out what the fish are eating.  It might take me longer to search for and find feeding fish.  Utilizing a guide that has many years of experience fishing a specific water or location will get rid of all the guesswork and put you right where you need to be to catch fish.

Don’t get me wrong – I enjoy fly fishing on new waters and learning how to catch fish.  But on a fishing trip to a new destination, spending a few days getting acquainted with the waters without any success can almost waste the trip.

Find The Best Fishing Guides

I am a firm believer in utilizing fishing guides.  The professional anglers on those Saturday morning fishing shows weren’t too good to use them, and neither am I.  Not all fishing guides are the same, however.  I have had my fair share of duds over the years.  I have learned a few tips when looking to find a fishing guide.  First of all, read online fishing guide reviews.  These reviews will allow you to see what other anglers liked and disliked about their services.  If they were good at locating fish and getting other anglers into the action, then they will most likely be able to do the same for you.  These reviews can be found on travel websites, online fishing forums, and fishing destination websites.

Also, look for guides that are experienced and have years fishing on the same waters.  Time is experience in the fishing business.  I spent 4 years during my undergraduate studies fishing the same stretch of river, and I learned where the fish were at different times of the day and year.  I know what flies work and what scenarios to use each one in.  A guide that has time and experience on a certain river, lake, or stretch of ocean will be able to do the same for you.

Summary

Whether you are planning to utilize an Alaska fishing guide, a fly fishing guide, or a deep sea fishing guide, be sure to do your homework.  Utilize the tools listed above to find fishing guides that have time and experience on the water.  Once you find one, get ready to follow their instructions with exactness, and get ready to catch fish!  Happy fishing!

Choosing The Right Trout Fishing Lures

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Some of my best memories of fishing are associated with trout fishing with my family in the mountains.  Growing up, we used to go on camping trips in Wyoming and Montana during the summer for family reunions.  I used these trips as opportunities to fish nearby streams and lakes for trout.

I learned early on that casting the wrong lure or fly at hungry trout does nothing more than spook them away.  Trout are picky eaters.  They are very particular about what they eat, and this makes it challenging to land trout on a consistent basis without using the right lure.  Matching the hatch doesn’t just apply to fly fishing.  It also applies to using a spinner or jig that matches aquatic life that the trout are used to seeing in their natural habitat.  Foreign appearing lures do nothing more than spook wary fish.

Picking The Right Trout Fishing Lures

Choosing the right trout fishing lures comes down to a few things.  Ask yourself a few questions about the lures you are using.  Does it fit the environment?  Will it do more to scare a fish away than incite a strike?  Does it represent a significant meal?

  • The first question is an easy one.  If the lure looks like an alien life form and has no reason swimming in the waters you are fishing, it probably won’t be a successful pattern.
  • Question number two is a little more difficult to answer, and mostly has to do with the size and shape.  Think of it this way:  is the lure you are casting almost as big as the fish that you are casting to?  I have had some extraordinary success landing the biggest fish in certain holes by casting lures slightly smaller than the littler fish.  This is a great tactic for specifically targeting the lunkers of the bunch.  You just need to be sure there is a lunker in the hole that will hit that large lure, because most of the smaller fish will dart for cover.
  • Question number three has to do with the ability of a trout to gain significant calories while exerting limited energy.  This will also be determined by the way in which you retrieve your lure.  If you cast it into a swift current and rip it back to you, the fish would have to exert a lot of energy to chase after it in the current, which it might not be willing to do.  A jig bounced off the bottom very slowly allows the trout more time to consider its value as a relatively easy meal.

Trout fishing lures vary greatly in color, size, and function.  Some work well in murky waters with low visibility, and other work well in crystal clear waters.  Some work well in calm lakes and ponds, and others work in swift currents.  Others are successful when fished on the surface, while some need to be fished off the bottom.  Here are a few highlights of different types of trout lures and baits most commonly used to target them.

Flies

Eastern Trout Fly Fishing Flies Sampler Plus Fly Box

Fly fishing is a common way to land these beautiful fish.  Fly fishing utilizes hand tied flies that mimic natural insects and other aquatic life.  Flies can be fished on the surface as dry flies, or under the surface as nymphs, wet flies, and streamers.  Drifting nymphs, dry flies and other wet flies in the current of streams is a very successful way to land trout.  Stripping trout streamers on lakes and deep holes on rivers might possibly yield large trout.

Spinners

Panther Martin Bass and Trout Annihilator Spinner Fishing Lure Kit, Pack of 6

Spinners are probably the most common trout lure for spin cast fishing.  Spinners imitate a swimming baitfish, and come in a variety of sizes and color combinations.  For lakes, try using gold and silver bladed spinners, especially when fishing deep or with trolling gear.  Spoons are a good substitute for spinners in lakes.  These types of spinners have a more deliberate motion that mimics a wounded fish.  This is often irresistible to hungry trout.  For streams and rivers, size your spinners based on the size of the water and fish present.  Larger spinners work well on big rivers, and smaller spinners work well on smaller streams.

Jigs

Utilizing jigs for trout fishing is a great way to bounce a bait off the bottom to bottom feeders.  They also work great in lakes around cover.  I had a good friend growing up that swore by tiny white jigs for trout fishing a spring fed river close to where I grew up in the Midwest.  I also witnessed him land one of the biggest rainbow trout out of that river with his ultra light spinning combo and jig, a whopper that topped 7.5 pounds and had the girth of a football.  They work, and are very easy to fish.  For small streams, sneak up to the edge and dip them over the bank into deep holes for the best results.

Other Trout Fishing Lures

There are a variety of different plugs, crankbaits, jerkbaits, and topwaters that are commonly used in bass fishing that work well for trout.  These lures also imitate baitfish, and can produce large results.

The most successful trout fishing lures are lures that will produce in a variety of scenarios.  I have yet to find a silver bullet trout lure, but Mepps lures come pretty close on small streams.  My go to fly for most situations is a green wooly bugger, because most trout streams that I fish have a large leach population.  This fly will usually land me a few decent sized fish each time I use it.

Practice Makes Perfect

You will need to develop a sense for what works in a given situation.  It takes time to be able to ‘match the hatch’ as they say, but the knowledge and experience will allow you to enjoy more fishing success.  This goes for trout fishing lures for streams and trout fishing lures for lakes.  Every scenario will be different.  Do your homework.  Be sure to shop around for cheap trout fishing lures on the market.  Usually, buying them in bulk will get you the best deals.  And as always, happy fishing!