Fly fishing is a perfect early spring activity when the weather's just warming up. You can book a guide or go solo almost anywhere in Colorado. An alternative to bait fishing, fly fishing forces you to slow down and live in the moment. It’s a great activity for people of all ages to enjoy for its flexibility and relative ease. Brock and Holden at Jax Fort Collins Outdoor Gear have a list of tips and tricks to get any beginner started on their fly fishing journey. 

Rods, Lines and Kits; What You Need to Know

For beginning fly fishers, knowing what rods, lines and flies to buy can feel overwhelming. The cheapest and easiest way to get started is by getting a kit. The kit includes a rod, line holder, furled line, and a variety of flies. If a kit isn’t your style then it’s crucial to know what type of rod to get. Rods are based on a weight system with the lowest number being the lightest rods and the highest numbers benign heavier. 5 weight rod is the most commonly used across Colorado. It is the perfect mid- grade rod to get started. Tip: be sure the rod and line number match up. There are different types of lines based on what type of water you are fly fishing in. Beginners want a weight forward floating line. 

Alternatives to Traditional Fly Fishing 

Fly fishing has grown immensely popular over the years. One offshoot of traditional fly fishing is Euro Nymphing which is a technique discovered by fly fishermen during competitions. It requires a different level of finesse than traditional fly fishing. It is great for brook trout and small streams. Euro Nymphing requires a different type of line called a sink tip line. 

Casting is Key 

The most important aspect of fly fishing is casting. The rod should feel like an extension of our arm as opposed to something you are holding. Praciting casting beforehand will allow for a smoother fly fishing experience. Tie yarn to the end of the line and practice the motion in your backyard, again and again until it becomes muscle memory. Proper technique for casting:

• Load up the rod behind your head 

• Wait for the line to unfold 

• Whip it forward 

• Allow it to fall straight and lay quietly