In theory, fly-fishing is a simple sport: Pick a body of water, choose a fly-fishing rod, select your “fly” (or bait), tie a secure knot, cast your line and, hopefully, land a fish on the other end. Sounds simple, right? Not so much. There’s a tremendous amount of time, research and know-how that goes into fly-fishing. There’s also a lot of money you can spend on a seemingly endless list of fly-fishing gear. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give fly-fishing a go.
Despite its intimidation factor, flashy gear and technical lingo, fly-fishing doesn’t have to be all that complicated. I’ve experienced this firsthand over the past year as I’ve learned how to fly-fish myself. This year, I went out on my first drift boat ride, caught my first rainbow trout, tried winter fly-fishing and tied a fly on all by myself. Simply having an interest to try fly-fishing is a first step. From there, you just need a foundation of simple knowledge, beginner-friendly gear and the willingness (and patience) to learn.
What is fly-fishing and how to get started
Take Me Fishing, an online resource that helps beginners learn the basics of fishing and boating, is a great starting place to build a foundation of fly-fishing knowledge. Its expansive database of blog posts and state-specific information covers most of what you need to know to get started — from how to buy a fishing license and register your boat to recommendations on where to go.
According to a Take Me Fishing blog post on the key differences between fly-fishing and regular fishing, “The technical difference between fly-fishing [versus] regular fishing is that with the former, you use a weighted line (fly line) to cast or otherwise present to a fish an unweighted object (some type of ‘fly’). Whereas with the latter, you use a weightless line to present to a fish a weighted object (some type of hard or soft lure and/or some type of natural or prepared ‘bait’).”
Simply put: When fly-fishing, you’re focused on casting the line, not a lure.
“Casting is the foundation of fly-fishing,” says Brian Quick, director of outfitters at The Fly Shop in Redding, California, who manages the shop’s guide service, private waters, school and fish camps. “The best investment you can make early on is to hire a professional, certified casting instructor. It isn’t rocket science, but learning the basic concepts of casting a fly rod, receiving one-on-one feedback and how to critique your casting so that you can correct and improve your casting skills is invaluable.”
Tom Rosenbauer, an Orvis fly-fishing expert, podcast host and author, says fly-fishing tends to be a bit more difficult than regular fishing — specifically when it comes to casting. Fly rod casting uses a back-and-forth motion of the rod and leverages the momentum of the line to send the fly out in the water. Rosenbauer says a fly-fishing cast requires more manipulation of the line with your hand and takes a bit more practice than a cast on a traditional spinning fishing rod. Orvis offers free online video lessons to help you learn the art of casting. You can also seek out a learn-to-cast class at your local fly-fishing shop or hire an in-person instructor.
Types of fly-fishing
The first step of fly-fishing is deciding where you’ll fish and at what time of year. The season and the location of your fishing spot will determine the type of fly rod and fly you’ll need for your outing. Vying to land a brown or rainbow trout on the Yellowstone River in Bozeman, Montana? Fishing winter waters for steelhead on the Boardman River in Northern Michigan? Casting for brook trout on small streams in Southern Vermont? Each of these scenarios will require a different “rig” or fly rod setup as the type of fish, time of year and location determine what the fish are eating.
The three most common types of fly-fishing include dry, wet and streamer fly-fishing. Dry fly-fishing uses a fly that floats on top of the water. A dry fly mimics an insect riding the current and a fish will come to the surface to eat them. Dry flies can be big and buoyant or feathery and light. Wet fly-fishing targets fish eating underwater and uses nymph flies or bead head flies that sink. Most trout eat underwater, so it’s a popular method for catching fish you can’t see from above the surface. Streamer fishing imitates swimming bait fish, crayfish and other aquatic insects. Anglers using a streamer will manipulate the line with their hand by pulling it in to make the streamer look like it’s moving or swimming.
“I won’t even admit how many times I went trout fishing with a fly rod before I caught my first fish,” says Rosenbauer. “Be patient and be observant of the environment around you — find where the fish are in the water, watch how they are behaving and see what their prey are doing. Generally, the more observant people are, the better anglers they are.”
‘Match the hatch’
Flies imitate the insects that fish are feasting on above and below the water. The four most common categories of flies you’ll use when fly-fishing are nymphs (or wet flies), emergers, streamers and dry flies. Insects, and the flies you’ll use to imitate them, are regional, and their hatching cycle depends on the time of year.
As insects hatch throughout the seasons, fly anglers must “match the hatch” by selecting what insects the fish are eating at that time of year and location. The best place to start when purchasing flies is to connect with your local fly shop where they’ll have local insight on what insects the fish are feeding for that specific time of year and for the exact body of water you’ll fish on.
Avid anglers like Erica Nelson, an Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing guide with Willowfly Anglers, host of the “Awkward Angler Podcast” and co-founder of REAL Consulting, which guides fishing organizations toward racial equity and inclusion, say you actually don’t need that many flies to get started. Her recommendation is to buy up at least two of each of the following to start out with for trout fly-fishing: Wooly Buggers, Zebra Midge, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail and San Juan Worm.
“The ones listed are typically used year-round; however, the more you get dialed in, you will likely change up your fly patterns,” says Nelson. “Your apparel and gear will shift as the season changes, as well as fly choices. That said, it’s OK to set a budget, and you don’t have to buy what they recommend — often they provide many options and don’t feel pressured to buy them all.”
Fly-fishing tips for beginners
Visit your local fly shop
Need gear? Not sure what the fish are eating? Curious about public access points? Local fly shops can also be a wealth of knowledge for regional fishing insights, knowledge and gear.
“Nine out of 10 fly shops you walk into will be welcoming and helpful,” says Rosenbauer. “Walk in and introduce yourself as a beginner. They’re likely to be very patient and walk you through what you need to know. But, if you do walk into a fly shop and nobody gives you the time of day or they ignore you after finding out you’re a beginner, then walk out and find another shop.”
If you’re not quite ready to invest in your own gear, fly shops can also be a great place to rent gear, especially when traveling to fish. While gear is critical for fly-fishing, Molly Winston, a Utah-based fly-fishing guide with Park City Fly Fishing Guides, says you can start with a foundational amount of gear and rent anything else you still need. “If you’re starting out, all you need is a rod, reel, fly line, leader and flies — and your local fly shop may even rent you a rod, reel, waders and boots for an affordable price to try it out before you go all in.”
Hire a guide
Guides can be a game changer on the water. Hiring a guide, especially as a beginner, can be a smart idea if you want to learn the basics and have the best success at catching a fish your first time (or few times) out. Guides bring local knowledge for the waters you’re fishing and can help teach and coach you while you fish.
For Angelica Talan, a Washington, D.C.-based angler and fly-fishing content creator, hiring a guide she can relate to and feel comfortable with has been a huge impact on her experience on the water. “For me, hiring female guides [instead of male guides] has been a bit more nurturing, a little more supportive and positive, and focused on teaching you from where you are,” she says. “Women tend to bring a can-do attitude and cheerleading quality to the water.”
Find community and connection
A recent study from the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation found that only 19% of anglers typically fished alone, with eight in 10 participants choosing to fish in groups of two to five. Even more: 4.1 million Americans tried fishing for the first time in 2022, up from 3.7 million from 2021.
As more anglers flock to fly-fishing, beginners have a lot to gain from finding a community of like-minded anglers to connect with and learn from. Beginners should consider attending community meet-ups and regional events to seeking your local chapters of Trout Unlimited to joining affinity-based groups like United Women on the Fly, Confluence Collective and Brown Folks Fishing to learn more from anglers they relate to and feel comfortable with.
Beyond community, fly-fishing also has a huge impact on connecting anglers to themselves and the world around them while on the water. “I have found enormous mental health benefits from connecting with myself, with others and with nature while fly-fishing,” adds Talan. “As a mother, fly-fishing has helped me reduce stress and has really made me feel freer and safer on the water.”
Gear up for your first fly-fishing adventure
The gear list for fly-fishing can feel endless. A fly-fishing rod, flies, a floatant, indicators, waders, boots, sun protection, glasses, a fly line, nippers, a net and a waterproof backpack to carry it all is just the tip of the iceberg. Yet, a basic foundation of fly-fishing equipment, including a solid set of waders, boots and a beginner fly rod kit, is a great place to start.
If you’re ready to invest in your own fly-fishing gear, we’ve got you covered with these expert-approved and beginner-recommended items:
Fly-fishing rods
Not all fly rods are created equal. You’ll want to consider the type of water you’re fishing as well as the price point you’re willing to spend on a rod. For beginners, our experts recommend purchasing a rod “kit” that comes with the rod and all of the components you’ll need for fishing, including a reel, line and carrying case.
Quick says you really don’t need the latest and greatest rod, reel or line to start fly-fishing. “While it’s true that your equipment should be matched to the waters and fish species you are targeting, that shouldn’t deter you from getting out and learning on beginner rods.”
Similar to a set of golf clubs, there’s a fly-fishing rod for every type of approach. “For most small to medium trout streams, a 9-foot, 5-weight is a great size to start with,” says Rebeca Granillo, owner and head guide of Immerse Fly Fishing, a Utah-based guide service that offers fishing trips and educational courses, and the founder of Wasatch Womens Fly Fishing Club.
As a general rule of thumb: The higher the line weight, the more power and distance you’ll be able to throw the line. Rods with heavier weighted line can carry larger flies farther. They’ll also stand up to bigger fish without snapping your line or, even worse, your rod. When fishing smaller streams and creeks, you’ll want a shorter rod. When going after trout with a lightweight dry fly, you’ll likely want to use a lighter-weight line to present the fly more delicately on the surface of the water.
“Beginners should know the most popular fly rod out in the world, by far, is a 9-foot, 5-weight rod,” adds Rosenbauer. “A common misconception is people thinking they always need a shorter rod to fish small streams. The reality is, you can go after small fish in small streams with a 9-foot rod too, as it gives you good reach and the ability to manipulate your line.” Pro tip: Just watch out so don’t get stuck in the trees or bushes on the riverbank.
The Redington Original Freshwater Kit is a great starter package for new anglers but also offers flexibility for any level of angler. Built for medium-fast action casting, this kit was built for landing trout across a variety of conditions and waterways.
“For rods and waders of small to medium rivers, a standard 9-foot, 5-weight rod, reel and line are good to start with,” says Nelson. “I like the Orvis Encounter as a good first-timer outfit (outfit meaning it comes as a kit with rod, reel and line). It’s about $200, and the only downfall is that it is not covered under their warranty, so Orvis won’t replace it if it breaks.”
A medium-fast action rod that won’t break the bank, the Echo Lift Fly Rod Kit is a great option for beginners who want to test the waters before investing in a pricier rod. The kit comes with an Echo Base reel with Airflo fly line, backing and a tapered leader, so it’s ready for the water as soon as you purchase it. Echo also sells a fly-fishing combo package ($339) that comes with all the essentials — from flies and nippers to forceps and a net.
No matter what kind of water and fish you’re after, this rod outfit will get you there. One of Orvis’ most popular entry-level rods, the Clearwater comes in 17 different lengths and weights, from medium-action for small streams to medium-fast on freshwater to fast-action for big game. An added bonus: This rod comes with Orvis’ 25-Year Guarantee warranty. That means the brand will fix your rod no matter how it gets broken. Sapped tip? Sticky reel? Rolled over by the car? All covered.
Want just the rod and not the whole outfit? The Fly Shop’s signature 9-foot, 6-weight fly rod is a great option for beginner anglers who want a high-quality rod at a solid price. The Fresh H2O rods come in five different models built for various action and power performances, depending on the type of water and intended fish. “I purchased mine over 10 years ago and never leave it at home,” says Quick. “This is a great budget rod and one of my favorite dry fly rods on our Lower Sacramento River [in Redding, California], as you can make long, accurate presentations and the power allows you to turn a large rainbow in current to quickly bring it to the net.”
Fly-fishing apparel
Waders
Waders are key if you don’t want to get wet while fishing. They’re also important when fishing in cold water, like mountain-fed rivers or during the shoulder or winter seasons. You can wear thick fleece pants, like the Patagonia Shelled Insulator Pants ($189) or Orvis Pro Underwader Pants (currently $119), if you’re fishing in extra-frigid conditions.
Nearly all waders, if you invest in a pair from a reputable brand, are fully waterproof and have a built-in stocking to keep your feet dry inside your boot. These are known as stockingfoot waders. You can also buy waders with a built-in boot, called bootfoot waders. While they tend to be more expensive, it’s a good option if you know you’ll mostly be wading while fly-fishing verus riding in a drift boat.
“As for apparel and gear, I like to size up my waders and boots,” says Nelson. “This is so I can fit warm layers underneath if the weather is cool or if I am winter fly-fishing I can wear a puffy jacket and thick socks.”
Underneath your wader you can wear quick-dry pants or shorts. Personally, I wear pants underneath my waders because I prefer to avoid the feeling of the waterproof backing on the waders from rubbing against my legs. However, in the heat of the summer, I typically just wear shorts.
The Clearwater Waders are Orvis’ most affordable and approachable wader for beginners. They come in petite, regular and tall sizing from XS to XXL and are designed with a four-layer waterproof yet breathable nylon fabric.
If you’re looking for a step up in comfort, durability and breathability, Nelson recommends the Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders. This warm weather wader is known for its lightweight build and breathable design.
Skip an expensive price tag for these simple, no-frills waders that will most definitely keep you dry and protected on all types of streams, rivers and open bodies of water. Redington makes these Escape Waders in women’s sizing too.
Simms’ Freestone Waders are middle-tier waders that are durable yet breathable in the water. A side zipper makes putting on and taking off these waders easier than most. If you’re looking for even more affordable waders, try the Simms Tributary Waders ($230). While a little less comfortable and breathable, these waders are made for beginner anglers who want to try fly-fishing before investing the big bucks.
“When you are fishing in the rain, or wading in the winter in cold waters, nothing will have you heading back to your vehicle sooner than a pair of uncomfortable waders,” says Quick. “These waders have a fit that allows you to move freely, have good pockets to warm your hands when necessary and will last quite a long time if you take care of them. Getting a good pair of waders that fits you well is always a sound investment.” They come in women’s sizing too.
Wading boots and footwear
Wading boots provide traction and stability while walking through the water. As you can imagine, navigating through water on algae-covered rocks and muddy riverbanks can be a recipe for disaster if you’re not wearing slip-resistant and protective footwear. Look for wading boots with rubber soles if you want the most traction. You can also opt for felt-bottom boots, but those tend to trap invasive species, and you may unknowingly transport them from waterway to waterway. Wading boots might also come with studs or are stud-compatible. If you’re extra concerned with staying upright in the water, you may want to opt for those.
Entry-level boots don’t mean you have to compromise. The felt-soled Orvis Encounter Wading Boot is lightweight yet doesn’t sacrifice durability, thanks to its ripstop upper and toe and heel caps that offer protection from abrasion and impacts. Orvis also designed this wading boot with a padded collar that also gives you added ankle support and comfort. If you want a super-affordable boot that’s equally as reliable, make this your pick.
“The Korkers Buckskin Wading Boot is a super option for just about any foot and angler there is,” says Quick. “With replaceable soles, you can swap out from felt to rubber in less than a minute. You can also replace your soles for a lot less money than a new pair, and it is much better for our environment.” These affordable boots also come in men’s sizes.
This low-profile boot is lightweight, ultra grippy and rugged enough to stand up to slippery mountain streams and mossy riverbeds. It also won’t break the bank compared to other boots you’ll find on the market. Simms designed this lightweight wading boot with a Vibram sole for added traction on tough-to-navigate and unpredictable terrain. Its high-cushion midsole also provides extra comfort, great for hiking out to access points along rocky trails through the backcountry or long days wading in the water.
Want to invest a little more money for a little less effort? The Orvis Pro BOA wading boots are a lot easier to tie than your standard lace boots. Especially if you plan to fish back-to-back days on the water, or have access to water nearby, these boots come in handy since you’ll likely be in and out of your boots frequently. Beginner anglers searching for durable and comfortable boots for long days standing in and hiking to the river need to check these out.
If you’re interested in warm weather wet wading — fly-fishing in the water without waders and heavy boots — Astral shoes are a great pick. They’re made with an ultra-sticky and high-abrasion compound on the outsole that helps with traction on slippery rocks and slick surfaces. The Loyak AC, which comes in men’s sizing too, features a super-breathable mesh ripstop that dries quickly, breathes well and keeps out debris like sand and mud. A wide and fully covered toe box also helps protect you from stubbing your toes on rocks underwater.
The 2mm neoprene NRS Wetsock comes in handy when you’re fishing during the shoulder season or on days when it's too warm for bootfoot waders. They also cut the unnecessary bulk. “If you don’t want to wear waders in the summer, I recommend neoprene socks to wear under your sandals or boots,” says Nelson.
Sun shirts
Sun protection on the water is extremely important. Most seasoned anglers will recommend you cover up head to toe to keep yourself protected and safe from UV rays. We’ve covered why UPF clothing is important for diminishing your chances of skin damage and staying healthy. Sun shirts are a game changer for protecting your skin while fishing, especially when floating on drift boats on exposed rivers or lakes. It may seem counterintuitive to cover up your arms and legs in the heat, but keeping the sun off your skin will actually keep you cooler longer. Of course, always lather up in sunscreen before you hit the water too.
A sun hoodie that won’t break the bank, this no-frills but super-comfortable hoodie is great for on and off the water. REI designed the Sahara Shade Hoodie with UPF 50+ rated stretch knit fabric that’s super mobile and super sun protective.
Not a hoodie fan? The Orvis Sun Defense Crewneck keeps your upper body covered from the neck down. It’s treated with Orvis’ odor control technology so you won’t smell as much, even on the hottest of days. Comfortable thumb loops also help provide extra hand coverage.
A Simms fan favorite, the SolarFlex Hoodie is stretchy and quick-drying, and it provides UPF 50+ rated protection from the sun. It’s buttery soft and also has a snap closure at the neckline to keep the hood snug around your head and face.
“I wear lots of sun shirts for hot days on the water, and I love wearing Howler Brothers' Loggerhead hoodies,” vouches Winston. The 100% polyester Loggerhead Hoodie is quick-drying and provides UPF 35+ protection with a full hood.
Fly-fishing accessories
From organizing your flies to the tools you need to catch and release fish on the water, here are other products to consider when building out your beginner fly-fishing gear list.
“A small fly box like the Reyr Mini is my favorite to just toss in my pocket and not even have to worry about a pack,” says Nelson. The Reyr comes with four rows of space for fitting over two dozen flies or more depending on size and pattern.
Flotant helps prevent your waterlogged dry flies from sinking. It comes in either liquid or powder form and is used as a temporary waterproof coating on your fly to help it stay on top of the water once you cast. “If you are using a dry fly — a fly that sits on top of the water versus below — I like to use floatant,” says Nelson.
Having a net in hand to land your fish is key. This wooden net is a great starter option for beginner anglers. It is durable and relatively lightweight, and it has a soft and clear rubber mesh net that's gentle on the fish.
No need to spend upward of $50 (or more) on nippers. This small and essential tool comes in handy for cutting the “tag” ends of your leader and tippet after tying on flies or extending your fly line. Loon’s classic nipper is made of alloy steel and a locking cable so you don’t lose it.
You’ll use forceps to pinch and remove small hooks, like dry flies, from the fish’s mouth. These reliable forceps are made of stainless steel and lock to help with your grip and stay shut when you’re not using them.
“I didn't realize early on that this was an essential item to wear while fly-fishing,” says Talan. “While they’re not always comfortable to wear, it's a preventative measure for safety that helps keep slow down water from filling up your waders if you were to slip while walking in the river.”
“I guide Fishpond packs because they’re great submersible packs that are totally waterproof and come in all shapes and sizes, from chest and sling to waist packs and backpacks,” says Winston. “These packs are also great on boats and paddleboards too.”
Like sun shirts, polarized sunglasses are key for staying safe and protected from the sun on the water. “When you're fishing with flies, you want to avoid any injuries,” says Talan. “Costa Sunglasses are my favorite eyewear, and they provide all the protection you need on the water.”
