Posts by Bradey Hall

Streamer fly fishing is a thrilling way to target larger fish, but it requires a variety of techniques to be effective. Whether you’re new to the practice or looking to refine your skills, here are some key streamer fishing techniques that can elevate your game on the water.

1. The Strip Retrieve

One of the most common and effective methods in streamer fishing is the strip retrieve. This technique mimics the erratic movement of baitfish and crawfish enticing predatory fish to strike.

• How to Do It: After casting your streamer, allow it to sink briefly. The depth can be the most important part. In order to find the right water column use a combination of sinking lines and different weighted streamers.
• Retrieve it by making quick, short strips of the line. Experiment with the speed and cadence of your retrieve—sometimes a fast retrieve will trigger a chase, while a slower approach can also be effective, especially in cooler water. A good rule of thumb is the colder the water the slower the retrieve.
• Tip: Understand what type of movement you are mimicking. Is it a sculpin, crayfish or bait fish. Their movement varies so yours should too.

2. The Swing Method

The swing technique involves letting your streamer drift through the current, allowing it to imitate a wounded or fleeing fish. This method is particularly effective in rivers with current.

• How to Do It: Cast across the current and let the streamer swing downstream. As it moves, retrieve slowly to keep tension on the line, but allow the current to do most of the work.
• Tip: Focus on structure—fish often hide behind rocks or along the edges of current. The swing method can draw them out to investigate.

3. The Jigging Technique

Jigging can be highly effective, especially in deeper waters. This technique mimics a baitfish trying to escape, drawing in curious predators.

• How to Do It: Cast your streamer and let it sink. Then, use short, sharp strips to raise and lower the streamer in the water column. This mimics a struggling fish and can provoke aggressive strikes.
• Tip: Vary the length and speed of your strips to find what the fish respond to best.

4. The Bounce Retrieve

This technique works well in areas with structure, such as rocky bottoms or submerged logs. The bounce retrieve creates a natural, erratic movement that can be irresistible to fish. Often times we like to use this when fishing a sculpin pattern.

• How to Do It: Cast your streamer and allow it to sink. Retrieve by bouncing the line—strip it quickly, then let it drop back down. This simulates a fish that is darting around obstacles.
• Tip: Pay attention to your surroundings. If you hit a snag, don’t be afraid to pause and let the streamer sit for a moment—this can provoke a strike. Jigged streamers can help avoid snagging the bottom.

5. The Chugging Method

Chugging is an exciting technique that involves making the streamer “pop” on the surface, mimicking a fleeing fish. It’s especially effective during low-light conditions or when fish are actively feeding on the surface.

• How to Do It: Cast your streamer and retrieve it with a series of quick, jerky strips. The goal is to create a splash or disturbance on the water’s surface.
• Tip: Use larger, more buoyant streamers for this method to maximize the splashing effect.

6. The Cross-Currents Technique

Utilizing the currents can help you present your streamer in a more natural way. This technique is especially effective in rivers and streams where fish are likely to be positioned to ambush prey.

• How to Do It: Cast your streamer upstream at an angle and let it drift down while retrieving. This presents the streamer at various depths and angles, increasing your chances of a strike.
• Tip: Adjust your angle and retrieve speed based on the current and the behavior of the fish.

Conclusion

Mastering different streamer fishing techniques can significantly improve your success on the water. Each method has its time and place, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different retrieves and presentations until you find what works best for the conditions and species you’re targeting. With practice and patience, you’ll be reeling in some impressive catches in no time.

Fly fishing from a drift boat combines the serenity of a river environment with the precision of boat-based fishing, creating a unique and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice looking to expand your skills, understanding the nuances of this technique can significantly enhance your time on the water.

1. Understanding Your Drift Boat

Types of Drift Boats:
Drift boats are designed to navigate shallow, fast-moving rivers and provide stability and maneuverability. The most common types include the traditional wooden drift boat and modern fiberglass or aluminum versions. Each has its own advantages, but all are built to offer a steady platform for casting.

Boat Positioning:
Your position on the boat will affect your casting and the way you interact with the water. Typically, you’ll have an oarsman and one or two anglers. The oarsman controls the drift, while the anglers focus on fishing. Understanding the boat’s movement and positioning is crucial for effective fly fishing.

2. Gear and Preparation

Fly Rod and Reel:
Select a rod and reel suited for the type of water and fish species you’re targeting. From personal experience I like to use a 10 foot 6-weight rod. Ensure your reel has a smooth drag system to handle the demands of fighting fish.

Fly Selection:
Choose flies based on the hatch patterns in the river you’re fishing. Nymphs, dry flies, and streamers are common choices. Carry a variety of patterns to adapt to changing conditions.

Additional Gear:

• Waders and Boots: Keep dry and maintain traction with appropriate wading gear.
• Strike Indicators: Useful for detecting subtle takes when nymph fishing.
• Tippet and Leader: Use appropriate weights to match the flies and water conditions.
• Water Proof Gear: You are on the water and outside so having rain gear and a water proof boat bag/storage is incredibly important.

3. Techniques for Success

Casting from a Moving Boat:
Casting from a drift boat requires practice. Focus on these techniques:

• Maintain Balance: Keep your weight centered and avoid sudden movements that could unbalance the boat. Stand in the middle of the boat and always stay in the hip locks.
• Read the Water: Cast slightly upstream/downstream depending on the rivers flow. Slower water you will want to cast around 9 or 3 on the clock. Faster water you will want to cast more in the 2 or 10 positions. This technique helps present the fly in a more natural manner and increases your chances of a strike. (SET ON EVERYTHING)
• Use Short, Accurate Casts: Due to the moving nature of the boat, shorter, more accurate casts are often more effective than long-distance casts. Longer casts can be harder to get a good drift. Slow is smooth and smooth is fast. Keep your rod tip high when casting.

Drifting and Positioning:

• Communicate with the Oarsman: Good communication between the oarsman and anglers is key. Discuss preferred drifts and potential obstacles in the water.
• Adjusting the Drift: If the boat is moving too fast or too slow, let the oarsman know. They can adjust the speed to match the water’s conditions and your fishing needs.

Reading the Water:

• Look for Fish Holding Areas: Focus on seams, drop-offs, eddies, and structures like rocks and logs. These are often prime spots where fish congregate.
• Adjust Your Approach: Based on water speed and depth, adjust your casting and retrieve techniques to match the conditions.

4. Safety and Etiquette

Safety First:

• Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a life jacket, especially in fast-moving water.
• Stay Alert: Pay attention to the water conditions and any potential hazards such as submerged rocks or debris.

Respecting Other Anglers:

• Share the Water: Be mindful of other anglers and maintain a respectful distance.
• Follow Local Regulations: Adhere to local fishing regulations and guidelines to ensure a sustainable fishing environment.

Conclusion

Fly fishing from a drift boat offers a unique perspective on river fishing, blending skill, strategy, and the beauty of the natural world. By understanding your boat, honing your casting techniques, and respecting the river environment, you’ll enhance your chances of success and fully enjoy the experience. Happy fishing!

Fly fishing, with its delicate artistry and precise technique, demands not only skill but also the right equipment. Among the myriad tools and accessories fly fishers rely on, floatants play a crucial role in ensuring that flies perform optimally on the water. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of fly fishing floatants available, their uses, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is a Fly Fishing Floatant?

A fly fishing floatant is a substance applied to fly patterns to make them buoyant or maintain their buoyancy. Since many flies are designed to mimic insects that float or skitter on the water’s surface, a floatant helps keep these patterns from sinking and losing their effectiveness. Floatants are essential for maintaining the natural presentation of dry flies, which are often the key to attracting fish.

Types of Fly Fishing Floatants

Gel Floatants

Description: Gel floatants often have a thick, viscous consistency that allows for precise application. High N Dry’s Gel Floatant, however, is designed to be a bit thinner than the other gel products on the market so that it can be applied to finer fly fibers, such as CDC. Gels are typically dispensed from a tube or bottle and are easy to apply to specific areas of the fly.

Benefits: Gel floatants are excellent for achieving long-lasting buoyancy. They are less likely to be washed off by water or cast, making them ideal for high- stress fishing situations. In fact, unlike other gels, High N Dry’s Gel Floatant soaks in to the fly fibers, creating even longer lasting waterproofing.

Usage: Best for fly fishers that like to dress particular areas of the fly and for flies that need a high degree of buoyancy or when fishing in challenging conditions where the fly is likely to be submerged or affected by currents.

Liquid Floatants

Description: Liquid floatants can be applied in two different methods – either by dipping a fly in a bottle or using a spray bottle. Dipping the fly is quick, easy, and will coat the entire fly with floatant. Spray floatants come in aerosol or pump bottles and can also be applied quickly and evenly, but also allow for treatment of specific areas of a fly.

Benefits: Liqiud based floatants are a convenient and efficient way of treating flies and are often used as a general-purpose floatant. Like the Gel Floatant, both High N Dry Liquid Floatant and Liquid Spray Floatant soak into the fly fibers and waterproof from the inside out, creating a longer lasting effect on the fly.

Usage: Ideal for anglers who aren’t as particular about which parts of the fly they want to treat and for those who prefer a quick and easy application process.

Powder Floatants

Description: Powder floatants are dry powders that are usually applied by brush or dipping the fly into the powder. Some powder floatants also include desiccant, which absorbs water as well. Powders generally trap air, which creates a buoyancy effect. High N Dry offers both a straight powdered floatant with an applicator brush and a combination powdered floatant with desiccant.

Benefits: Where the liquid and gel floatants waterproof the fly, powder-based floatants are better at clinging to the fly fibers, trapping air, and adding buoyancy. Powders that also include desiccant are perfect for reviving a fish-slimed or drowned fly for continued use.

Usage: Should be used in conjunction with a gel or liquid floatant, but also great for those fly fishers that like to dress certain areas of the fly (powder with brush) or for reviving fish-slimed or waterlogged flies during use (powder with desiccant).

Choosing the Right Floatant

When selecting a floatant, consider the following factors:

Type of Fly: Different flies require different levels of buoyancy. Dry flies may need more robust floatants, while emergers and nymphs might benefit from lighter options.

Fishing Conditions: Assess the conditions you’ll be fishing in. For example, if you’re fishing in heavy rain or fast-moving water, a more durable floatant like liquid or gel might be necessary.

Ease of Use: Some floatants are easier to apply than others. Choose a type that fits your preference and the demands of your fishing situation.

Frequency of Use: If you fish regularly or for extended periods, consider floatants that offer long-lasting performance to minimize the need for constant reapplication.

What is the floatant made of: not all floatants are made the same. Consider whether the floatant is made from environmentally friendly materials or whether it includes harmful materials, such as petroleum-based products (all High N Dry products are 100% environmentally friendly).

HIGH N DRY’S SUGGESTIONS:

Regardless of the fishing conditions, we suggest using a combination of either High N Dry’s Gel, Liquid, or Liquid Spray Floatants (applied first) as well as the Powdered Floatant with Applicator Brush. This will both waterproof the fly and add buoyancy. Then, when you need to revive the fly, use High N Dry’s Powdered Floatant and Desiccant.

You should also always apply High N Dry’s Paste Floatant to your tippet and leader. Your fly floats, your fly line floats, you might as well make sure the whole system between the two float as well. While not a “floatant” per se, you should also apply High N Dry’s Fly Line Dressing to your fly line to coat the fly line and ensure it is working as intended.

Conclusion

Floatants are a vital part of any fly fisher’s toolkit, ensuring that your flies perform as intended and remain buoyant on the water’s surface. By understanding the different types available and their uses you can make an informed choice that enhances your fly- fishing experience. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a newcomer, selecting the right floatant can make a significant difference in your success on the water. Happy fishing!

Fly fishing with dry flies is an art form that combines patience, skill, and an understanding of aquatic ecosystems. Unlike nymph or streamer fishing, dry fly fishing involves presenting flies that float on the water’s surface, imitating adult insects. It’s a method cherished by anglers for its elegance and the visual thrill of watching a trout rise to take the fly. In this guide, we’ll dive into the nuances of dry fly fishing, from equipment selection to casting techniques and understanding insect behavior.

1. Understanding Dry Flies:

Dry flies imitate adult insects that either land on the water’s surface or emerge from underwater to hatch into flying insects. Different dry flies mimic various insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and terrestrial insects like ants and grasshoppers. Familiarize yourself with the local insect hatches to choose the appropriate dry flies for the season and location.

2. Essential Equipment:

Fly Rod: Opt for a lightweight rod with a delicate action, typically in the 3-5 weight range for most dry fly fishing situations.

Fly Reel: Choose a reel with a smooth drag system to handle the occasional larger fish that may take your fly.

Fly Line: Weight-forward floating lines are ideal for presenting dry flies accurately and delicately.

Leaders and Tippets: Use long, tapered leaders with fine tippets to ensure a natural presentation and minimize spooking fish. We like to use nylon leaders roughly 9ft in length. Nylon floats better than fluorocarbon leaders. Use this with our paste and keep your leader from getting water logged.

3. Presentation Techniques:

Approach Stealthily: Trout in clear water can be easily spooked by anglers, so approach your fishing spot with caution and avoid making unnecessary noise or disturbances.

Cast with Precision: Aim for accurate casts, placing the fly gently on the water’s surface to avoid alarming the fish.

Mend Your Line: Use mending techniques to control the drift of your fly, ensuring a drag-free presentation and natural drift.

Pay Attention to Drift: Watch the drift of your fly closely and be ready for any subtle takes or rises from feeding trout.

4. Matching the Hatch:

Observation is Key: Keep an eye on the water surface for signs of insect activity such as rises, hatching insects, or spent spinners.

Select the Right Fly: Match your fly pattern to the insects present on the water, both in size and color.

Experiment: If trout are not responding to your initial fly choice, try different patterns until you find one that triggers a response.

5. Fishing Strategies:

 Dry Fly Techniques: Explore different dry fly presentations such as dead drifts, skittering, and twitching to entice trout.

Fish the Riffles: Target feeding trout in riffles, where they often congregate to intercept drifting insects.

Evening Rise: Take advantage of the evening rise when trout become more active and feed on surface insects with greater enthusiasm.

6. Practice and Patience:

Dry fly fishing requires patience and practice to master the art of presentation and observation.

Spend time on the water, honing your casting skills and studying insect behavior to become a more proficient dry fly angler.

Mastering the art of dry fly fishing is a rewarding journey that connects anglers to the rhythms of nature and the elusive behavior of trout. By understanding the nuances of presentation, matching the hatch, and honing your observation skills, you can increase your success on the water and experience the thrill of watching trout rise to your meticulously presented dry fly. So, grab your gear, head to the nearest trout stream, and immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of fly fishing with dry flies.