Outdoor Blog

Fly Fishing 101: Everything You Need To Know

Published

3 years ago

July 24, 2021

Fly fishing is an amazing outdoor sport that any angler can pick up. The calming sounds of running water and enjoying a beautiful day outdoors cannot be matched.

However, fly fishing is a bit different from its simple cousin. There are specific fishing techniques as well as equipment that you need in order to make sure you have the best fly fishing experience possible. In this article, we’ll go over all of the basics to help you get started on your fly fishing adventure!

What Is Fly Fishing?

Before we get started on specific techniques and necessary gear, let’s discuss what fly fishing actually is. To put things simply, it is a type of fishing where you use a lightweight lure to catch fish. This type of lure is called an artificial fly.

These artificial lures typically resemble the food sources of many of the larger types of fish found in rivers and lakes such as trout, salmon, steelhead, and bass. Another big difference between normal fishing and fly fishing is the casting methods.

Becoming an expert fly fisherman requires a lot of skill!

While we won’t go in-depth on these techniques right now, we will go over the basic principle of casting. With normal fishing, an angler will typically rely on the weight of the lure that’s at the end of their line to cast. With fly fishing, it’s more like you’re casting your line, than your lure.

This is a very tricky process. During fly casting, you have to make the lure seem natural enough that a fish will go after it. There are also a variety of different casts that are appropriate for different situations. What’s more is that you also have to master the movement of your lure beneath the water, in order to properly attract fish.

It can be a difficult process to learn at first. Many first-time fly fishers may get their lures and lines caught in the trees behind them, or fail to properly cast. While the learning curve may seem daunting at first, the sport is truly relaxing and rewarding once you’ve mastered it.

Fly Fishing Equipment

Now that you know a little bit more about the sport, let’s take a look at all of the essential gear you’ll need. We’ll start with arguably the most important part of fishing, the rod.

Fly Fishing Rod

At first, you might think that any old fishing rod could be used to fly fish. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. These types of rods are specifically made for the sport and have more differences than similarities when compared to normal fishing rods.

When compared to any run-of-the-mill fishing rod, a rod constructed for fly fishing will be much lighter and thinner. It has all of the other parts that are typical of a fishing rod: a handle, a reel seat, and line guides. Of course, even the line guides are different as they’re smaller and fixed closer to the rod itself.

Another key difference is that the reel seat, or where the reel is actually mounted, is found lower on the end of the rod than a typical fishing reel. The main reason for this is to create a good balance in the rod. Something that’s pretty interesting is that fly rods are actually in the same classification as your average spinning reel rod.

However, the difference here is that the weight of a fly fishing rod comes mostly from the line, instead of the rod. There are a few types of fly fishing rods as well. They’re broken up into categories based on the length of the rod. The reason this is important is that the length of the rod will determine where it can be used most effectively and which casting methods you can use.

As an example, if you’re fishing on a smaller stream, you’ll want a 6-7 foot long rod. Like all other fishing rods, a fly rod is made from a carbon-fiber material. However, this is not the only thing they’re made of. Some rods are made using fiberglass, graphite, or even bamboo.

The different materials actually make a pretty big difference not just in the feel of the rod but in performance in a variety of situations. Because this is an article about the basics of fly fishing, we recommend looking into fly fishing rods that are made using graphite.

The reasoning behind this is how versatile this material is. It is very lightweight and strong, making it able to stand up to harsher conditions when compared to other rod materials. It’s excellent for beginners as you don’t have to get used to all of the nuances that come with rods made from other materials.

Line

Next up in your fly fishing arsenal is the line. Like with the rods, you can’t use any old fishing line with your fly reel. You’ll need a special type which is an aptly labeled fly line. There are a lot of different types of fly lines out there featuring different styles and materials.

We’ll give you an overview of them and point you in the right direction. To name just a few different lines: full-floating lines, partial-float lines, sinking lines (which all have various sinking rates), and full-sinking lines. We cannot even begin to list all of the different fly lines out there which are specially made to catch a certain type of fish.

Ideally, fly anglers want to match the type of line with your environment as well as the fish species you’re going after. The most commonly used type of line, and the one we recommend for beginners, is the monofilament full-floating line.

The weight of the line allows the whole length of it to float comfortably on the surface of the water. This fly line is generally seen by anglers as the best choice for all-around fly fishing as it’s great for most situations and is perfect when utilizing typical techniques.

Lures

Obviously, you can’t go fishing without a lure. As we said earlier, fly fishing requires a special type of lure known as an artificial fly. These lures either imitate a fish’s natural prey or attract a fish using a varying range of methods. There are three different types of artificial flies: floating flies, partially submerged, or underwater.

The underwater, or below surface flies are broken up into three sub-categories: nymphs, streamers, and wet flies. Floating flies are also known as dry flies. This type of lure is generally used in tandem with a floating line. These types of lures are generally supposed to represent prey that floats on the surface such as dragonflies, ants, grasshoppers, and even mice or frogs

Using dry flies to catch trout can be a lot of fun!

These flies are great for freshwater and trout fishing. Partially submerged flies are also known as emergers. This type of lure covers a wider variety of prey than a dry fly. They tend to mimic baitfish, crayfish, leeches, worms, and other different species of aquatic insect life.

These types of lures will sink just below the water line to perfectly mimic the appropriate prey. Wet flies tend to imitate minnows or leeches. These flies will sink a lot more below the surface than a partially submerged fly. The thinking behind this type of lure is that they imitate an aquatic insect during its growth stage, also known as “nymphing” hence the nickname given to this lure.

These lures do require a tippet, so be sure to get yourself one. An interesting fact about these lures is that you can actually make them yourself! Through a process called fly tying, people have been making these lures since at least the year 200!

Waders

This piece of fishing gear is essential if you want to go angling in deeper waters. They allow you to get into a better position so you can cast downriver, avoiding having to reset your cast often. You can find these for sale at most outdoor sports stores and even Amazon.

Casting Methods

Now that you know about all of the necessary pieces of equipment you need to have a full fly fishing arsenal, we will move onto the more complicated part, casting. If you’re going to go fly fishing, you need to know a few different casting techniques. We’ll start by taking a look at the basic fly cast, the brickwork of every good caster.

Basic Fly Cast

As the name suggests, this is an easy and straightforward cast. First, you’ll need to start with your rod pointing down, with some of your line laying in the water in front of you. Next, you’ll need to smoothly, but quickly, bring your rod tip behind you from the first position.

Pause for but a moment, to allow your line to unfurl a little bit behind you. Now, use your forearm to whip the rod forward, abruptly stopping your hand’s movement. This type of cast is not unlike how you would cast a normal fishing rod, but there are a few differences that you’ll need to not in order to master this technique.

For example, the pause as you bring the rod backward is important as you need to let the line out. You need to remember that the purpose of the technique is to bend the rod so that it has adequate power when brought forward.

Roll Cast

There are some situations where you will just not have the room to make a proper, full-length cast. Perhaps there are too many trees or bushes behind you or maybe other anglers prevent you from casting over your shoulder. Whatever the case might be, this is when you should use what is called a roll cast.

A roll cast is performed by first leaving some of your line in the water and start with the tip of your rod behind you and turned outward. Your hand should be next to your ear and across from your shoulder. Begin to bring your rod forward quickly and as your hand moves forward, stop it abruptly but give the rod a push with your thumb. It is essentially a flick of the wrist!

Bow and Arrow Cast

This type of cast is pretty much exactly how it sounds. You are essentially trying to use your rod like a bow and arrow to fling your line as far out as you can. This is definitely one of the more difficult and technical casts that a fly fisherman can utilize.

However, the reward is being able to reach places in rivers or streams that a normal cast could never permit. To perform this cast, you’ll first need to grab the loose part of your fly line slightly above the cork grip. Now, point your rod tip at your desired target.

You’ll then want to pull back on your line to create a bend in the rod. We recommend pulling your hand back to your ear. Once you’re all lined up and your rod is nice and bent, release your grip on the fly line and watch it go soaring to your target.

Double Haul Cast

Next up is the double haul cast. This is a type of cast that is really meant to be used when you’re using larger flies. These larger lures can sometimes be a bit cumbersome and can mess up a typical cast. When you find this happening to you, that is when you should be utilizing this type of cast.

Because of the extra distance and utility with heavier flies, this is an exceedingly popular casting method with saltwater fly fishermen. To execute a double haul cast you’ll need to first start your cast like any normal one by flicking your wrist back and forth.

As you’re flicking, you’ll need to create tension on your line. To do this, pull down on the slackline as your rod goes forward and backward. When you’re ready to send your fly into the water, flick your wrist back and pull your line just as the fly hits the water.

Then, flick forward and pull on your line but let go of it just as your rod comes forward. This is an extremely effective type of cast if you have a lot of line that you need to cast out. It takes a lot of the stress and effort of the cast out of your wrist and shoulder by utilizing the force and tension caused by pulling on the part of the fly line that’s slack. This is why you’ll see so many people use it for saltwater fly fishing.

Steeple Cast

Now we have the steeple cast. At first, this may seem like a very strange type of cast, because of the technique behind it. However, it shares the same type of usefulness found in the roll cast. It allows you to perform a cast while you’re in a tight space or while on smaller rivers and creeks.

To effectively perform this cast, you’ll need to start with a very steep backcast. You’ll essentially want to bring the tip of your rod to an almost 90-degree angle above you in a quick motion. Then, bring your rod down quickly and cast forward, stopping abruptly when the tip of your rod is at about your eye level.

You’ll then want to slowly lower the tip of your rod to let the fly line out of your reel. Something to keep in mind while performing this cast is to make sure you don’t make it super powerful. Overpowering your cast, especially when the rod is coming down, can cause you to slap the water with your rod.

One of the worst things you can do as a fisherman is scaring all of the fish away!

Final Verdict

After reading this article, you should have enough knowledge of fly fishing to head out there on your own. Remember, it’s a game of patience and technique so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get bites immediately. Now, grab your favorite tackle box, your rod, and waders and catch some trophy fish!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

3 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

4 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

6 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.