On a recent trip, I couldn’t help but ponder what all goes into catching a special fish on a fly rod. Whatever special means to you.
A dear fishing friend and I talked through this topic as we made the final hike back on what was an epic but challenging trip. We experienced many ups and downs over the last few days of fishing and it made us realize what all goes into catching the fish of the summer.
I thought I’d put together a list of what came to my mind when factoring in all the skills, sacrifices, and failures that lead to consistent success on the water and ultimately landing a memorable fish. I hope this article highlights why there can be a steep learning curve in fly fishing. Showcases the value first-hand experience has on the water. And lastly, encompasses the amount of work and passion successful fly anglers put into the sport.
So, what goes into catching a special fish on a fly rod?
Well, the general knowledge to understand what rivers and lakes to target the fish you are after.
Knowing where to access the river without trespassing.
Late nights spent researching potential fishing spots.
The many books, podcasts, and videos to further understand the sport.
How many hours did you put in this last winter tying flies for the trip?
What about the many explorations that led to fishless days?
A thorough understanding of the bug life and food the fish may be feeding on.
Understanding how and when fish feed on specific hatches and food items.
Understanding the time of year and how that may affect your fishing style.
How about knowing how the weather patterns affect the fishing and hatches?
What about everything you've sacrificed to put yourself in the position to catch this special fish?
The money you have spent.
The time away from your significant other
The time away from your family
The time taken away from other hobbies.
The wear and tear on your body.
The sunburns, dehydration, and meals skipped.
The gear you have lost or worn through.
How many classes did you skip to go fishing in college?
What experiences could you have had if you weren’t constantly fishing or thinking about fishing?
Now let's think about all the failures you have experienced that have led to this moment.
The fish spooked before even making a cast.
The fish spooked after making a cast.
The stumbles and falls in the river.
The missed hooksets.
The straightened hooks and broken knots.
The tangles you’ve had to untie.
The flies lost in the bushes.
The dozens of experimental flies tied that didn’t catch fish.
The fish you’ve walked by not knowing they were there.
And esspecially the big fish you couldn’t get to the net.
You are now on the river, what goes into catching the fish on that day?
Miles and miles put on your vehicle
More miles of hiking to get to less pressured areas.
Knowing where to locate the fish.
Selecting the proper leader length
Selecting the proper tippet size
Tying a strong knot
Selecting the proper fly.
Putting yourself in the best position to cast to and land the fish
Knowing where to cast.
Making a good enough cast.
Conducting the most natural drift.
Timing and setting the hook.
Fighting the fish efficiently
The act of netting the fish without making a mistake.
And most importantly.
Handling, photographing, and releasing the fish so it can be a special fish for another angler.
As you can see, A LOT goes into catching this fish. I’m sure you can continue adding to this list.
Every detail, previous experience, and skill learned prepare you for that moment. For those who have made fly fishing a life long passion, it’s all part of the game. It doesn’t feel like work. It is what makes us feel most alive.
For others, this may look like a lot of work. It doesn’t come easy or they are not as serious about the sport. That’s okay and awesome too.
My goal is to give you a perspective of the work that goes into being successful with a fly rod. The reason some anglers seem to be catching more and bigger fish consistently. While luck is a big factor in the sport of fishing, it does not contribute to consistent success on the water like the skills, failures, and knowledge listed above.
Wherever you are on the spectrum and whatever fly fishing means to you, I hope you can respect the passion that goes into catching a unique, breathtaking fish.
It makes those few moments with the fish so much more special.
As always, keep learning and stay curious.
