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

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month 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.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter