Basics about the "Fly" Fishing

Using a Sub-Surface Fly

There is a trick to using a sub-surface fly so that it catches more fish:  deodorize the fly before you use it by rubbing it with mud or underwater plants.  This will mask the chemical and human smells that are attached to it and that may distract the fish from striking.

Keep your Dry Flies Floating Longer

One way that you can keep your dry flies floating higher and longer on top of the water is by waterproofing them.  Take a can of Scotch-guard, the same stuff that you use to protect your furniture, and spray those flies that you plan on taking fishing with you in the next few days.  Let them dry overnight before using them. 

The Scotch-guard will put a waterproof protective coating around your flies and prevent them from becoming drenched with water.  This will allow them to float higher and longer on the water.

Using Dry Flies in the Afternoon

If you're fly fishing in the afternoon you'll want to use dry flies.  The main reason for this is that the sun will be warming the water and the air.  And this means that you'll see hatches of little black flies.  This is a great time to do some dry fly fishing since you can present a fly that is similar to an adult insect.

Basic Tools for Tying Flies

There are some basic tools that you'll need for tying flies.  This includes:

" A bobbin to hold the thread while you're tying.
" A vice to hold the hook while you're tying.
" Hackle pliers to keep a firm hold on delicate and small feathers.
" Needle point scissors for cutting and trimming materials.
" A bodkin and half-hitch tool for help tying the half-hitch knot.
" A vise material clip for holding all the materials firmly in one place.
" Head cement that is used for both gluing and to add a finish.

Tying your Fly to the Tippet

You may find that there are times when you have difficulty tying the fly to the tippet. This can happen whether you're in the water or up on the bank.  A good trick to help you is to hold the fly up against a background that is single colored, such as the sky.  The background will be able to help you see the fly easier and tie it to the tippet.