Fly fishing is the most demanding discipline of fishing as it requires a high level of skill, patience and skill unlike other fishing techniques. Precise technique is required to place the fly on the water and outwit the fish. This makes fly fishing a challenging but rewarding hobby.
What makes fly fishing so fascinating?
Fly fishing isn't just about catching the fish, it's also about the beauty and artistry of the cast. Unlike other fishing techniques where the rod is thrown into the water, fly fishing involves throwing the fly to the surface of the water to lure the fish. This requires a high degree of accuracy and finesse to create a natural movement of the fly and thus successfully fool the fish.
Fly fishing technique
It is considered an art form that requires a certain amount of practice and experience to master. In general, the technique of fly fishing consists of three basic movements: the backswing, the forwardswing and the set down.
- The Backswing:
The backswing is the first step in fly fishing. You hold the fly rod behind you and bring it backwards in one quick, fluid motion. You should make sure that the fly line spreads behind you on the water or in the air. - The forward swing:
Once you have completed the backswing, bring the rod back forward in one fluid motion. You should make sure that the fly line is moving forward in a straight line and is held at an angle of about 45 degrees to the water surface. - The weaning:
Once the fly line is fully extended, let the fly land on the water. It is important that you place the fly gently on the water to avoid creating unnatural waves.
There are many variations in fly fishing, depending on what species of fish the target fish is and what body of water you are fishing in. It takes time and practice to master the technique of fly fishing, but it can be a very satisfying and rewarding activity once you've gained the ability to place the fly exactly where you want to outsmart the fish.
What equipment do I need to get started?
Fly rod
You need a special fly rod to cast the flies on the water. A rod that is around 2,5m long and has a line class of 4 to 6 is a good choice for beginners.
fly reel
A fly reel is important to accommodate the fly line. The reel should fit the fly rod and be spooled with a suitable line.
Fly line
The fly line is the heart of fly fishing and must match the rod and reel. A floating fly line of the line grade recommended for your rod is best for beginners.
Leader
The leader is a thin, transparent thread that is attached between the fly line and the fly. There are different types of leaders for different fishing situations.
air travel
There are many different types of flies suitable for different types of fish and bodies of water. As a beginner, you should focus on a few basic flies such as dry flies and wet flies.
Accessories
A landing net, scissors to cut line, pliers to remove hooks, and a backpack to carry your gear are also essential.
The most popular waters for fly fishing
Bavaria
Isar, Lech, Loisach, Ammer, Alz, Mangfall
Baden-Württemberg
Danube, Neckar, Kocher, Jagst, Enz, Murr
Lower Saxony
Weser, Elbe, Aller, Leine, Hunte, Oste
Rheinland-Pfalz
Moselle, Nahe, Ahr, Kyll, Lahn, Saar
Brandenburg
Havel, Spree, Dahme, Nuthe, Nieplitz, Dosse
Saxony
Elbe, Mulde, Spree, Zschopau, Schwarzwasser, Weisse Elster
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Peene, Warnow, Recknitz, Tollense, Trebel, Zarow
Schleswig-Holstein
Eider, Trave, Schwentine, Sorge, Schlei, Treene
Nordrhein-Westfalen
Lippe, Ruhr, Möhne, Lenne, Emscher, Bigge
Hessen
Lahn, Fulda, Eder, Diemel, Werra, Schwalm