Fly fishing is an ancient and peaceful approach to angling that appeals to fishermen from all walks of life. David Ellerstein of Jackson Hole Anglers, fly fishing outfitters in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, says that understanding fly fishing is about more than just learning how to choose a fly and cast your line. Here, Ellerstein explains some of the more subtle elements of fly fishing and why learning from an professional guide is the best way to go.
Fly fishing, Ellerstein says, “is a bit of an art form.” While someone with a traditional rod, reel and worm can certainly catch fish, fly fishing involves a completely different approach. “When you go fly fishing,” he says, “you’re almost purposely making it more difficult for yourself. It’s a more challenging, artful way of catching fish.”
What is Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing, Ellerstein explains, is a fishing method that involves the use of artificial flies (lures) rather than bait to attract fish. The flies, usually made from hair, feathers, fur and other materials, are designed to mimic the food - local insects, baitfish and other prey - of the target fish species. In fly fishing, a special fly rod and fly line are used. One of the biggest differences between fly fishing and bait fishing, Ellerstein says, is the way the line is cast. Rather than relying on the weight of the bait to propel it through the air, fly fishermen must rely on the weight of the line itself for casting distance. For this reason, fly fishing line is heavier than other types of fishing line and is usually coated with plastic for extra weight.
Presenting the Fly
“The most important element of fly fishing,” Ellerstein says, “is the presentation of the fly.” Fish, he explains, don’t care about your casting - it takes place in the air, where they can’t see it. What the fish care about is how the fly is presented, or what it looks like as it’s drifting down the river. Is it dragging? Is it drifting drag-free? Is there line piled up around it? The fly will only be effective if it’s convincing. Making it convincing, Ellerstein explains, is where the art comes in.
“One of the most important, but often overlooked, elements of presentation,” Ellerstein says, “is the mend.” Mending, he explains, is the act of adjusting your fly line to reduce or eliminate the amount of drag it’s placing on the fly. Your best chance at a catch, he says, is maintaining a drag-free drift (like an insect), in the strike zone, for as long a period of time as possible. Learning to adjust your line properly takes time, concentration and lots of trial and error. But getting it right, says Ellerstein, is a big part of becoming a successful fly fisherman.
How to Learn
The best way to learn fly fishing, Ellerstein says, is from an expert. While anyone can pick up fly fishing equipment at a local sporting goods store and watch some videos online, the best way to “really get it” is to work with a professional instructor. Ellerstein’s company offers guided fly fishing trips to some of Jackson Hole’s most popular spots. These trips, he explains, are perfect for beginners. “We can take someone who knows absolutely nothing about the sport of fly fishing and have them catching fish very quickly.”