Get Started: Fly Fishing
March 26, 2018
Written by: Tim Lewis
Fly fishing has been a passion of mine for 5 years now. My first introduction to fly fishing was as a student at Ferrum College where noticed a fly fishing trip posted on the Ferrum Outdoors website. Intrigued, I signed up and the next thing I knew I was fishing with Angler’s Lane at their Rivenridge property on the Piney River. I was so mesmerized by the experience that I returned multiple times during my time at Ferrum. Eventually, I purchased and accumulated my own gear and started fishing on my own. I knew I had found a lifelong hobby and passion. Since coming to Liberty University to pursue my masters and career in outdoor recreation, I have had the privilege to reconnect with Angler’s Lane and the local fly fishing community. This has led to part-time employment with the shop as well as the opportunity to be on the facilitating side of LU’s fly fishing trips as an Assistant Director with Outdoor Recreation. From student participant to full-time employee, it has been a privilege to return to the area and share the same trips and experiences with LU students that first ignited my passion 5 years ago.
What I’ve learned over the years is that fly fishing is growing in popularity, particularly with younger demographics. Younger enthusiasts are catching the bug and finding ways to make the sport accessible and affordable to more audiences. One of the biggest stigmas about fly fishing is the perception that it is an elite gentleman’s sport that requires thousands of dollars before even beginning to catching fish. Fly fishing is really not as expensive and lofty as it appears. Like all hobbies, you can spend as much or as little money on it as you’d like. However, you do not need to start out with a “Cadillac” fly rod; a “Chevrolet” will be fine! I am still using a “Toyota” myself.
To get started, you will need to purchasae a fly rod and reel combo. These packages come with a medium weight fly rod,
reel, fly line, leader, tippet, storage case, and a few flies; everything you need to catch fish. You can purchase these combo packages for $150 easily. Redington and Cabela’s are my favorites brands. It always helps to know a few people who are already active fly fishermen. Most fly fishermen are more than happy to lend you a few starter flies and helpful hints to get your feet wet. I will forever be thankful to those friends who lent me my first San Juans and Woolly Buggers and taught me how to cast!
Next, you need to find a good fishing hole. This can be a little more challenging as most self-respecting fly fishermen will not give away their favorite fishing spots as readily as they will a fly from their collection. You need to build connections and credibility. To do this you should stop by a local fly shop, talk to the experts, share stories and pictures, and buy from them; let them know you are serious! In no time, you will have a network of fly fishing buddies who will always be looking for partners to fish with. Fly fishing, as well as outdoor recreation as a whole, is all about networking and connections; who you know dictates what you know. I also recommend purchasing a National Geographic Trails Illustrated map for your area. These maps will show you where the stocked rivers are as well as the native streams. Also helpful is the VDGIF website that offers a plethora of helpful links, maps, and descriptions of Virginia’s fishing waters.
If you are having a difficult time getting into the sport, I encourage you to come on one of Outdoor Recreation’s many trip offerings! We go fly fishing with Angler’s Lane every semester; a day trip in the spring and a multi-day fall break trip in the fall. We also are always creating new and exciting events on campus such as our Fishing Derby and Fishing clinics. Our partnership with Angler’s Lane has something to offer all ability levels! Many of our OR staff are fly fishing enthusiasts as well and are always happy to share their knowledge and get people excited about the sport! Drop us a line!