Posts by Bradey Hall
Mastering the Art of Fly Fishing from a Drift Boat
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!
The Essential Guide to Fly Fishing Floatants
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!
Reading Water: How to Fly Fish
Reading water is essential for successful fly fishing, as it helps you understand where fish are likely to be holding and feeding. Here are some tips and tricks to help you read water effectively:
1. Observe the Surface: Look for any disturbances on the surface of the water, such as rises, swirls, or dimples, which indicate the presence of feeding fish.
2. Water Depth: Different fish species prefer different depths of water. Trout, for example, often inhabit riffles, runs, and pools, while bass may prefer deeper pools or structure.
3. Current Breaks: Fish seek refuge from the strong current in areas where the water slows down or changes direction. Look for pockets behind rocks, along the banks, or near submerged logs.
4. Eddies and Back Eddies: These are areas of water where the current spins back on itself. Fish often hang out in these calmer areas, especially if there’s food drifting by.
5. Undercut Banks: Banks that have been eroded by the current often create pockets of deeper water where fish can hide. Casting close to these banks can be productive.
6. Seams: A seam is the line where two different currents meet. Trout, in particular, like to position themselves where they have easy access to both fast and slow-moving water. These areas are often rich feeding grounds.
7. Riffles: Riffles are shallow, fast-moving stretches of water typically found over gravel beds. They oxygenate the water and provide cover for fish. Trout often hold in the softer water at the edges of riffles, where they can feed more comfortably.
8. Pools: Pools are deeper, slower-moving sections of water often found below riffles. They provide fish with a resting place and are prime feeding spots, especially during warmer weather.
9. Structure: Look for underwater structure such as logs, rocks, or submerged vegetation. These provide cover for fish and attract prey.
10. Shadows: Pay attention to the shadows cast by trees, rocks, or other objects. Fish may be more comfortable and active in shaded areas, especially on sunny days.
11. Temperature: Fish are sensitive to water temperature. In warmer weather, they may seek cooler, deeper water, while in cooler weather, they may move to shallower areas where the sun warms the water.
9. Structure: Look for underwater structure such as logs, rocks, or submerged vegetation. These provide cover for fish and attract prey.
12. Wind: Wind can push food to certain areas of the water, concentrating fish in those spots. Additionally, wind-driven waves can create oxygenation and cover noise, making fish less wary.
Remember, reading water is as much an art as it is a science, and it takes time and experience to become proficient. Pay close attention to the water and the behavior of fish, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and locations.
Mastering the Art of Fly Fishing with Dry Flies
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.
Fly Fishing: The Midge Life Cycle
Photo by: River Ambassadors Media
Understanding the midge life cycle can be crucial to catching more fish. Not only are midges in just about every water source they are a large part of a trout’s diet. They are hatching year round and understanding the midge can really up your fly fishing game.
1. Egg Stage:
The life cycle of a midge begins with the laying of eggs. Female midges typically lay their eggs in water or damp soil, often near a water source like ponds, lakes, or marshes. These eggs are tiny and often laid in clusters. Depending on the species, the number of eggs laid can vary greatly.
2. Larval Stage:
Once the eggs hatch, they enter the larval stage. Midge larvae, also known as bloodworms, are aquatic and live in freshwater environments. They feed on organic matter, algae, and microorganisms found in the water. Larvae play a vital role in freshwater ecosystems as decomposers, breaking down organic material and helping to recycle nutrients. The best bug to throw when they are in this stage is a Zebra Midge. To help figure out what color to tie on flip some rocks and be observant of the bugs flying around you.
3. Pupal Stage:
After a period of growth and development, midge larvae enter the pupal stage. During this stage, the larvae undergo metamorphosis, transforming into adult midges. Pupae are typically found in the water, often in silken cocoons attached to submerged vegetation or other structures. This stage can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on environmental conditions. We like to use a WD-40 and or a Midge with a glass bead. When midges emerge they create an air bubble that they can ride to the top and begin spreading their wings to fly.
4. Adult Stage:
Once the metamorphosis is complete, adult midges emerge from their pupal cases and rise to the water’s surface. Unlike mosquitoes, which also undergo aquatic development, midges do not bite as adults. Instead, their primary focus is reproduction. Adult midges have short lifespans, usually only a few days to a couple of weeks, during which they mate and lay eggs, thus completing the life cycle. This one be tricky sometimes but when you see a pod of fish rising throw on a small Adams Parachute, Griffith Gnat or small dry. Dip it in your liquid High N Dry Flotant and brush with our powder floatant to keep that small bug up top.
5. Environmental Impact:
Midges play important roles in aquatic ecosystems. As larvae, they contribute to nutrient cycling by breaking down organic matter. Additionally, midge larvae serve as a food source for various aquatic organisms, including fish, amphibians, and insects. However, large swarms of adult midges can be a nuisance to humans, especially in areas near water.