In the past, the biggest debate a fly fishermen would encounter relating to fishing line involved choosing the best-fit brand name.  Today, in the technological age as we know it, fly fishermen now have to choose not only what brand name line best fits their preference, but also what composition of line will get the job done the most effectively.  As a fly fisherman/woman, you may be aware that there are a variety of fishing lines available in todays market.  When you visit your local fly shop you may notice a variety of fishing lines, leaders and tippets on the shelves, all possessing their individually marked price.  Some leaders may be $4 a piece, while other can reach up to $14 per leader.  The main contributor to this fluctuation of price, besides the brand name, is the type of line used to create these products.  Monofilament and Fluorocarbon lines are the two options available at most fly shops and each posses specific pros and cons.

With the start of the the migratory Trout season knocking at the door, here's a very handy book every angler should have tucked away in their pocket. It called 'Pocket Guide to Matching the Hatch'. Designed to slip into your fishing pocket, this invaluable book illusstrates with photos which insects equate to which artificial flies. It also offers expert advice on which flies are hatching at what time of the year, how the insects behave (and therefore how to imitate them) and even how to read a fish's rise: all clues to the well-informed fisherman!

The most common mistake I've performed throughout my years fly fishing resulted from my uncontrollable will to step foot in the water. My fishing never officially began until I was submerged waist deep and throwing a fly. Looking back at my early days of fly fishing, I now realize that this urge has kept me from catching numerous potential trout. Fly fishing is most definitely a patience game, and today I realize the more patience I have equates to a greater amount of fish on the end of my line. Here are a few tips I have learned which have helped me become a more pro-active fisherman.

Fly-fishing an active hatch can be the thrill of a lifetime, especially if the opportunity to dry fly arises. Hundreds, or even thousands of aquatic insects emerge from the waters depths in attempt to breed before the abrupt end of their short-lived terrestrial lives. Us fly fishermen, as well as the fish we pursue, view these varieties of life cycles as an opportunistic event.  The aquatic insects emerge spontaneously, fish feed aggressively and fishermen attempt to “match the hatch”.  Excitement and anticipation often arise when a fisherman witnesses such an incredible event, but fishing a hatch is not always a piece of cake.