By Justin Mickens
In the world of fly fishing you can become lost. There is always a new technique coming out that is better than the last. New equipment that rivals what came out last year. Come to think about it, it’s a lot like cell phones. Every time you think you’ve upgraded to the newest and greatest, something better hits the market three days later.
I’m not knocking any equipment or technique out there. I know many people who have found their niche for catching many different species on the fly. I would just like to know what happened to just fishing. To being out on the water, enjoying the hunt, feeling the tug on the line. You don’t have to have any special equipment to get this feeling. I’ve never had a fish tell me I have a great rod.
Starting out, don’t worry that you don’t look like you walked out of a catalog. As long as you have gear that you are comfortable in, and it meets your criteria, who cares? I have caught many fish with an old, beat up Wonderglass Rod. One of my best friends never used a taper leader for many years. He used a piece of 6lb mono instead. He even taught himself how to compensate his cast for it.
Starting fly fishing is like starting at a gym. You get out on the water and you think everyone is staring at you. Believe it or not, most people aren’t even looking your way. They are too busy concentrating on trying to catch fish. If I happen to see somebody out on the stream having troubles, I’ll try to help them out but, for the most part, I don’t pay attention to what others are doing.
Remember, everybody has his own technique, and you will develop what works best for you. Learn all you can, from everywhere you can, but apply what works for you. The best teacher is time on the water. Learn to enjoy the hunt, and feel the tug on a line, no matter what the species. That is what fishing means to me. Until next time, Tight Lines and Stable Rocks.
Justin Mickens is Co-Owner and Manager of Appalachian Outfitters Fly Shop in Murphy, NC.