a guide to starting fly fishing!

Congratulations on starting (or thinking about starting) fly fishing! Below we've compiled a short list of what you'll need to get started. You'll notice on this list there aren't things like waders, packs, or many accessories, that's becuase you might not need these to start! With that said, of course, if you are fishing in cold water, carrying a lot of things, or fishing in specific circumstances, you very well might need them. Come chat with us and we can advise what you will need, and what you can put off on getting to get going.

Rod/Reel

The most important thing to get started is of course your rod and reel! We are a huge fan of kits here at the shop, they take all of the guess work out of selecting equipment and quite frankly, will work very well for you as you're starting! If you're primarily fishing trout, a 5wt is a great option, if you're planning on fishing larger fish like bass, steelhead, and salmon, then an 8wt would be a better bet.

Echo Lift Fly Rod & Reel Kit

$350.00

Guideline - Embrace Single Hand Kits

$579.99

Echo Gecko Kids Fly Rod & Reel Kit

$350.00

Leaders & Tippet

On the end of your fly line you’ll attach a clear tapered leader. These leaders come in many sizes, a good starting point would be a 9’ 5x for trout or a 9’ 2x for bass/steelhead. As you consume your leader through re-tying knots, you’ll want to replenish the non-tapered end of it with tippet. Tippet is non-tapered fishing line, buying the same size as your tapered leader will ensure a smooth connection as you connect the two.

Scientific Anglers - Absolute Trout Leader 9'

$10.75

Scientific Anglers - Absolute Trout Tippet Clear

$10.75

Flies & Accessories

If you go the route of a kit, there will already be a leader and line on the reel, so all you really need on top of that is a few flies, a pair of forceps (small pliers, to remove hooks from fish), and a pair of nippers (to cut line with). You may also want to look at a fly box to hold your flies! Many folks will opt to get themselves a small pack or vest to carry their gear in while fishing.