Here is our guide about the top questions to ask before going on your next fly fishing trip!

So you’ve decided to start fly fishing and you want to organize your next trip. Well done! Fly fishing is one of the most amazing outdoor experiences you will ever have. How and when you book your guided fly fishing trip or even if you’re going to do it on your own and asking the right questions can have a huge influence on your experience on the water.

Don’t be afraid to pay some extra attention and effort in preparing your trip. Planning well and choosing the right guide will pay off at the end of the day with more catches and a nice journey. Let’s start with our questions:

11 Important questions to ask before your next fly fishing trip:

Is a fishing license required?

You don’t want to get punished by some fishing regulations and have things get worse on your trip. While every state has its regulations. and some of them permit children to fish without licenses. For example, Florida requires a fishing license for all non-residents older than 16 years old. In most cases, you’re going to need a license to take your catches.

What should I bring on a day trip?

There are various things that you need before heading out on the trip, but consider those as the essential ones:

1. Your gear
2. Sunblock
3. Polarized sunglasses
4. Water-resistant or quick-dry pants
5. Extra underwear
6. Thick or wool socks
7. Gloves and hats
8. Heavier jackets in winter
9. Protective eyewear
10. Towels
11. Cash

What species can you catch during fly fishing?

Fly fishing is famous for catching a lot of species, especially Trout fishing, Grayling, and salmon fishing. There are also some less popular species like bass, pike, panfish, carp, and marine species including tarpon, redfish, snook, striped bass, and bonefish.

What is the difference between booking a guided trip and doing it myself?

The difference here is the experience. Booking a trip with professionals can save you a lot of time and pain. While googling can provide you with some valuable info, it tends to be misleading sometimes. In addition, hands-on assistance is irreplaceable! If you’re not on a tight budget, consider booking a guided trip.

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Do I need specific gear or flies?

Usually, you can get this information from your guide. It varies depending on your destination, the targeted species, and the weather. For example, if you’re fishing for trout, you will need an ultra-light fast action rod, but this can make for some trouble in windy weather. Trout flies differ from salmon flies and so on!

Can I travel abroad or to remote destinations? How long should my trip be? 

Getting to your dream fly fishing destination isn’t as easy as it looks. There are a lot of details and travel logistics that have to be taken care of first. If it’s your first trip, remote destinations aren’t your best choice. However, If you’re planning to travel somewhere you haven’t been before, you should schedule some buffer days and take delayed flights and bad weather into consideration. 

If you’re traveling to foreign waters, opt to stay for as long as possible so you're able to have more time to do other activities like snorkeling or diving. We also recommend consulting fly fishing guides near you before taking this step.

Where should I go for fly fishing?

You guessed it right! You can fish wherever you want as long as there are fish there and you have the required license. Streams, lakes, rivers, and even the ocean are all suitable options. The trick here is to identify the best spot for what you'd like to ultimately get out of your fly fishing experience!

I reached my destination, where should I cast it now?

You should first determine whether you’re going for wade fly fishing or fishing from a boat. After this, your guide has to give you the instructions on the best spot to cast. Don’t worry, you will get that develop that sense on your own in time and will know where and when the ideal time to cast is, even if you’re a newbie fly fisher. 

If you’re on your own, ask some near fly fishing shops and download fishing apps to guide you to the sweetest spots.

Eye protection is so important when you're out on the water all day!

What is the best weather for fly fishing?

Mild overcast weather is considered ideal. A light breeze can have a nice touch also. If you’re targeting trout, a temperature between 34 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit is best! 

Where can I find the bathroom?

You may consider it a silly question, but you will know its importance once you need it. Some public fly fishing places have some restroom facilities, but in most cases, you won’t find any facilities especially near the rivers and streams. You should prepare yourself to get things done near the trees. 

Do I have to use a tippet when I fly fish?

No, it’s not required. You can easily fly fish without the need to use a tippet. But it also depends on how you’re going to do it. A tippet can be a crucial component in some situations. For instance, when you’re nymphing or using multiple flies, you will need it for your fishing rig.

Questions to ask your guide about!

Here are some questions that I recommend asking your guide about before leaving for your trip:

• Is there someone who is going to coach me and teach me casting and give some advice?

• What reasonable expectations should I have for today’s trip?

• Can I come out on my own? If yes, what are the good areas to look for?

• Do you need my help with anything? 

• What are the best flies to bring in this area for today?

• How many people can I bring with me?

• How long is our trip?

• Does your coach have a good experience with your targeted species?

Now, after reading some questions, I hope you’re a little bit more aware of your future planning. Feel free to ask those questions, don’t worry no one's gonna judge you. Fortunately, the fly fishing community is a welcoming one. Have fun! 

Guest Post by: Ali Tarek