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Fly Fishing

Expert Journal

Recent

Two fisherman stand in the water. The woman is holding a fishing rod and looks excited as she reels in the line and the man is looking at the end of the rod smiling. The man is wearing a fly fishing vest with several accessories attached to it.
Updated
The 6 Best Fly Fishing Vest Options
Vests are a great way to carry all your trout fishing gear to the river. Below are a few features to look for in a vest and an overview of some of the top vests on the market.
Fish in stream next to a fishing rod.
Updated
An Expert Guide to the 10 Best Fly Fishing Destinations in the U.S.
The United States holds some of the best fly fishing on the planet. Read more to discover the top destinations.
Review: Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly
Updated
Review: Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly
Curated Fly Fishing Experts share their experience with using the Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly. Note that experts are not sponsored by any brands; these are their honest opinions.
Two men standing on a boat in the shallows
Updated
The 3 Best Tarpon Flies a Fly Fisherman Can Choose
Fly fishing Expert Ryan Collins overviews three fly patterns perfect for fishing on the flats for tarpon.
A woman holding a fishing rod looks in a fly box and picks out a fly.
Updated
Fly Fishing Entomology: The Kinds of Insects, Bugs, and Flies You Need to Know
In order to match the hatch, you need to know what bugs you're looking at. This guide by Fly Fishing Expert Charlie Schoenherr covers the bugs you need to know.

Popular

A fly fisherman kneeling in the water with her fly rod on her lap while holding a rainbow trout in the water.
Updated
Why You Shouldn't Go for the $150 Fly Rod
If you're new to fly fishing, you might be tempted to buy the cheapest rod. Fly Fishing Expert Baily Dent explains why you'll want to invest in your first rod.
Fish in stream next to a fishing rod.
Updated
An Expert Guide to the 10 Best Fly Fishing Destinations in the U.S.
The United States holds some of the best fly fishing on the planet. Read more to discover the top destinations.
A man stands in a creek in waders and puts something into an Orvis bag while carrying his rod and a net.
Updated
The 17 Best Fly Fishing Brands: Fly Rods, Reels, and Other Gear
There are so many great fly fishing brands out there, it can be hard to tell them apart! This article breaks down the 17 best rod, reel, and gear brands.
Photo of Curated Expert Rylyn Small in the Simms Freestone Waders.
Updated
Expert Review: Simms Freestone Waders
This review is my own honest opinion of the waders, which I bought with my own money in November 2020.
Man fly fishing
Updated
The 11 Best Wader and Fishing Apparel Brands
Fly Fishing Expert Rylyn S. lays out his top 11 brands for fly fishing apparel and waders, so you can be sure to choose the best waders or apparel for your next cast.
A hand holding a trout out of the water.
Updated
The 10 Best Fly Rods for Trout Fishing
If you're looking to land some trout this year, you're going to need the right gear! Read on to learn what to look for in a trout rod and some suggestions for rods!

Buying Guides

A man is standing near a river smiling. He is holding a fishing rod and various items of fishing gear.
Updated
Fly Fishing Accessories You Shouldn’t Go Without
While they might not be “essential”, the following wish-list items recommended by Fly Fishing Expert Josh H. can be incredibly beneficial to your fly-fishing game.
Anglers cast off a jetty in Orvis Pro Waders.
Updated
An Expert Guide to Orvis Waders
Stay dry on your fishing adventures this year with a good pair of waders! Fly Fishing Expert Andy Sparhawk details everything you need to know about Orvis waders!
The back wall of a fly fishing shop where several different fly lines are available.
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Fly Line: How to Choose What's Best for You
Ready to up your fly fishing game? Fly Fishing Expert Marshall McDougal helps you choose the perfect fly line for your needs.
Two fisherman in a fishing stream with their fly rods.
Updated
An Expert Guide to Douglas Fly Rods
Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith explains all the considerations and features to look out for when shopping for a Douglas fly fishing rod!
A river with mountains in the background.
Updated
A Guide to Wet Wading: Wading Shoes, Fishing Socks, and More
Looking to wade fish this summer without the hassle of waders? No worries! Fly Fishing Expert Andrew Grandemange details the best clothing choices for wet wading.
A man casting a fly fishing rod.
Updated
The 20 Essentials for Every Fly Fisher
Fly fishing Expert Rylyn S. details all the gear you'll need before hitting the river for some fly fishing, plus some extras that are nice to have but not necessary!

Brand Guides

A man stands in a creek in waders and puts something into an Orvis bag while carrying his rod and a net.
Updated
The 17 Best Fly Fishing Brands: Fly Rods, Reels, and Other Gear
There are so many great fly fishing brands out there, it can be hard to tell them apart! This article breaks down the 17 best rod, reel, and gear brands.
Man fly fishing
Updated
The 11 Best Wader and Fishing Apparel Brands
Fly Fishing Expert Rylyn S. lays out his top 11 brands for fly fishing apparel and waders, so you can be sure to choose the best waders or apparel for your next cast.

Most Recommended

A box of flies.
Updated
The 12 Best Dry Flies: Patterns and Strategies for Trout Fishing
Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith lists twelve dry fly patterns every angler should be sure to have in their fly box before getting to the water!
A fly sits on a rock that is held by a fisherman who is also holding a fishing rod.
Updated
My Top 5 Terrestrial Patterns
Learn which terrestrial fly patterns to pack your fly box with when big bugs start flying around this spring with fly-fishing expert, Marshall McDougal!
A man fishing in the ocean. He has a fish on his fly line.
Updated
The 14 Best Fly Patterns for Baitfish
Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith lists fourteen baitfish fly patterns to bring along this season if you are looking to catch some big fish!
The author's fly rod set-up rests on a rock by the water with a streamer attached to the line.
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Top 5 Streamer Patterns
Fly-Fishing Expert Marshall McDougal breaks down which go-to streamer patterns should be a staple in your fly box.
Several shifts and hats sitting together next to a river.
Updated
The 9 Most Recommended Fly Fishing Shirts
Stay cool, warm, dry, insect-free, and sunproof on the water this season! Fly Fishing Expert Josh H. takes you on a shopping spree of some of his favorite shirts.
Several fly fishing rod and reels all standing together.
Updated
The Best Fly Fishing Rods for Beginners
Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith gives some tips on what to look for in your first fly rod, plus gives a few suggestions for the best fly rods for beginners!

Product Reviews

Curated Expert Charles Edington, fishing and wearing the Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders
Updated
Expert Review: Orvis Ultralight Convertible Wader
This review is my own honest opinion of the waders, which I bought with my own money in April 2021.
Close up photo of the Sage RPL + 490 rod.
Updated
Expert Review: Sage RPL + 490
This review is my own honest opinion of the fly rod, which I bought with my own money in April 2012.
Photo of Curated Expert Rylyn Small in the Simms Freestone Waders.
Updated
Expert Review: Simms Freestone Waders
This review is my own honest opinion of the waders, which I bought with my own money in November 2020.
The Rio InTouch Outbound Short Fishing Line.
Updated
Expert Review: Rio InTouch Outbound Short Fishing Line
This review is my honest opinion of the line, which I purchased with my own money in March of 2020.
Expert Review: Temple Fork Outfitters Finesse Trout Fly Rod
Updated
Expert Review: Temple Fork Outfitters Finesse Trout Fly Rod
This review is my own honest opinion of the fly rod, which I bought with my own money in May 2020.
Close up of the Sage Igniter 790-4 Fly Rod.
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Expert Review: Sage Igniter 790-4 Fly Rod
This review is my honest opinion of the rod, which I purchased with my own money in January 2022.

Gift Guides

An image of selected products from each 2022 Holiday Gift Guide.
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The Ultimate 2022 Holiday Gift Guide
Looking for the perfect holiday present? Curated Experts share their top Outdoor Sports, Baby & Toddler, Coffee & Espresso, and Grill product recommendations for your loved ones.
Someone handles line attached to an Orvis fly fishing reel while wearing mittens. The reel and rod are resting on ice.
Updated
The Ultimate 2021 Holiday Fly Fishing Gift Guide
If you have an avid fly fisher on your gift-giving list, check out this holiday gift guide that's sure to impress your favorite angler.
Product images from the gift guide below arranged in a collage.
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The Ultimate 2022 Fly Fishing Gift Guide
Shopping for fly fishers shouldn't be hard—most just want to catch more fish! Here are 10 awesome gift ideas for the fly fishers in your life.
A man fly fishes while wearing a pack.
Updated
5 Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Fly Fisher Dads
Wow your dad this Father's Day with a stand-out gift from Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith's five suggestions.
A fly fisherman fishing in the river near some cabins
Updated
Fly Fishing Gifts: A How-To Guide
Any fly fisher, beginner or seasoned, appreciates a gift that supports their passion.
A woman smiles on a boat while holding a fishing rod while a man smiles behind her, holding out a fish.
Updated
8 Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Fly Fisher Moms
Looking for the perfect Mother's Day present for the mom who loves to fly fish? Check out these eight great ideas sure to get mom excited for days on the water.

Product Care

An image of a Snowbee flyfishing reel sitting above a water source.
Updated
How to Set Up Your Fly Fishing Rod, Reel, and Line
If you've ever been stumped by a fly rod, look no further! Fly Fishing Expert Danny Mooers gives you all the tips you need to know for setting up your fly rod.
Two men cast their fly rods while wading in a river.
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How to Repair A Broken Fly Fishing Rod
Fly Fishing Expert Robert Levin walks through four types of common rod repairs so you can keep your fly rod performing as long as possible.
A fly fishing reel attached to a rod is held over a river.
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How to Take Care of Your Fly Fishing Gear
Fly Fishing Expert Robert Levin explains how to best care for your fly fishing gear so you're able to get the most use out of it.
A fly fisher wearing waders stands in a body of water with his fishing rod.
Updated
How to Repair Your Leaky Waders
If you are an avid angler, chances are, sooner or later, your waders will start to leak. Be ready for that day with these tips from Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith!
The view from an airplane window at the plane wing and rolling hills at sunrise
Updated
The Fly Fishing Vacation: How to Fly, Drive, or Sneak in your Gear
Fly Fishing expert Hayden B. overviews everything you need to know about packing and transporting gear, and how to turn any trip into a fly fishing opportunity.

How To

A close-up of a Wooly Mantis fly tied by the author.
Updated
How to Tie a Wooly Mantis Fly
Follow along with Fly Fishing Expert Robert Levin as he ties a Wooly Mantis, the perfect saltwater fly.
A man stands on the shore of a river and casts a fly line
Updated
An Introduction to European Nymphing: A Fly Fishing Tactic
Thinking of giving Euro Nymphing a try on your next fly fishing trip? Check out this explainer by fly fishing expert Rob F. before you go.
A boy casts a fly fishing rod into a river. He is wearing waders and a hat.
Updated
How to Go Fly Fishing with Your Kids
Fly fishing is a great way to spend time with your kids outside and teach them a valuable skill! Here are a few tips to make it easier and more fun for both of you!
A man pinches a fly fishing fly between his fingers.
Updated
How to Tie a Nymph Rig
A nymph rig is the most effective way to catch trout. Fly Fishing expert Andy Sparhawk walks you through setting up the perfect nymph rig.
A man in a sweatshirt fishes on a river bank
Updated
Fishing Dry Flies: The Gear, The Basics, & Presenting the Fly
Fly fishing expert Ryan Peters takes you through the basics of fishing with dry flies, and discusses some key tips and tricks to help you catch more fish on dries!

Travel Guides

A lake sits at the base of massive mountains. The sky is pink and blue above.
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Hooked on Colorado: A Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Colorado
Curious about Colorado's world-class fly fishing? Fly Fishing Expert Andy Sparhawk gives you all the tips on where to go and what to do.
A golved hand holds a trout out of a fishing net.
Updated
An Expert Guide to the Best Trout Streams in the U.S.
Whether you're just getting into the sport or a seasoned veteran - this guide will be sure to offer some new ideas of streams to toss a few casts in this season!
Two men smiling and each holding large trout.
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An Expert Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Montana
Montana is high on the list of must-fish places for most anglers! Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith lists some of the best places to fish around the state.
Yellowstone Lake extends to the left and a shrubby meadow fills the right.
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A Guide to Fishing in National Parks
Fishing Expert Christian Nelson shares his tips for fishing in a national park to help you take advantage of this amazing experience.
A trout swimming in the water. A hand is near it.
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An Expert Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Wyoming
For anglers looking to land some cutthroat trout, Wyoming is the spot to go! Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith lists a few can't-miss spots!
The Yellowstone River with green hills on one side
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A Fishing Guides Guide to the Best Fly Fishing in Yellowstone National Park
Heading to Yellowstone? Fly Fishing Expert Boone Tullett has some advice on when and where to go fly fishing.

Activities

A fisherman holding a Northern Pike out of the water.
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An Expert Guide to Fly Fishing for Northern Pike
Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith details all the gear and knowledge you'll need in order to land some northern pike on your fly rod this season!
The author stands on a rock in the middle of a river and casts. The water and the sky are a light blue.
Updated
What I Keep In My Bag and Car For a Day of Fly Fishing
Ready to hit the water but feel like you’re forgetting something? This is everything that Fly Fishing expert Marshall McDougal packs for a day out on the water.
Six men fly fishing in a river, all spread out and talking amongst themselves.
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How to Become a Fly Fishing Guide
Fly Fishing Expert Charlie Schoenherr describes his path to becoming a fly fishing guide and how he's able to share his passion for the sport.
How to Become a Fly-Fishing Mentor and Engage the Next Generation of Fly Fishers
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How to Become a Fly-Fishing Mentor and Engage the Next Generation of Fly Fishers
Getting new anglers excited about fly fishing is one of the best ways to preserve fishing areas for future generations! Learn how with Fly Fishing Expert Robert Levin.
Two fly fishermen with their gear wading in the water.
Updated
8 Podcasts Every Angler Should Listen To
Whether you've got a long drive to the river, are stuck at the office, or simply want to learn more about fly fishing - here are 8 must-listen podcasts!
Two men kneeling near water and each holding a steelhead.
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An Expert Guide to Fly Fishing for Steelhead
Steelhead fishing is a very unique branch of the fly fishing world. Fly Fishing Expert Joseph Smith explains everything you'd need to know about steelhead fishing!

Stories

The author stands in a river and fly fishes with her son on her back in a baby carrier. The sky is bright blue and the trees in the background are a blend of green and yellow.
Updated
A Day in the Life of a Curated Fly Fishing Expert
Fly Fishing expert Brittany Kintzel runs through a typical day for her and her children, from chatting to customers to catching trout.
A womans hand holds a fly rod. She is wearing waders and there is a sunset in the background.
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Fly Fishing's History in the United States
Fly Fishing Expert Robert Levin takes us back through time to the beginning of fly fishing in the U.S. and how this popular sport evolved to where it is now!
A woman fly fishes while standing in a river
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Woman in a "Man's" Sport
Fly fishing isn't just for the guys. Expert Jesi Scott shares her story of getting into the sport and some of the reasons she thinks more women should try it, too.

Short Answers

A man fishes off of a pier with waves crashing in the background. Painted in black on the white railing of the pier is "DO NOT FEED BIRDS."
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How to Get a Fishing License
In this handy Q&A article, Fishing Expert Adam Fox shares the answers to common questions about getting a fishing license to help out the beginner fishing community!

Structured Reviews

Review: Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly
Updated
Review: Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly
Curated Fly Fishing Experts share their experience with using the Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly. Note that experts are not sponsored by any brands; these are their honest opinions.

All Articles

Two fisherman stand in the water. The woman is holding a fishing rod and looks excited as she reels in the line and the man is looking at the end of the rod smiling. The man is wearing a fly fishing vest with several accessories attached to it.
Updated
The 6 Best Fly Fishing Vest Options
Vests are a great way to carry all your trout fishing gear to the river. Below are a few features to look for in a vest and an overview of some of the top vests on the market.
Fish in stream next to a fishing rod.
Updated
An Expert Guide to the 10 Best Fly Fishing Destinations in the U.S.
The United States holds some of the best fly fishing on the planet. Read more to discover the top destinations.
Review: Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly
Updated
Review: Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly
Curated Fly Fishing Experts share their experience with using the Umpqua Parachute Baetis Fly. Note that experts are not sponsored by any brands; these are their honest opinions.
Review: Orvis Superstrong Plus Leaders 2 Pack
Updated
Review: Orvis Superstrong Plus Leaders 2 Pack
Curated Fly Fishing Experts share their experience with using the Orvis Superstrong Plus Leaders 2 Pack. Note that experts are not sponsored by any brands; these are their honest opinions.
Two men standing on a boat in the shallows
Updated
The 3 Best Tarpon Flies a Fly Fisherman Can Choose
Fly fishing Expert Ryan Collins overviews three fly patterns perfect for fishing on the flats for tarpon.
A woman holding a fishing rod looks in a fly box and picks out a fly.
Updated
Fly Fishing Entomology: The Kinds of Insects, Bugs, and Flies You Need to Know
In order to match the hatch, you need to know what bugs you're looking at. This guide by Fly Fishing Expert Charlie Schoenherr covers the bugs you need to know.
Three fly reels on a wooden table
Updated
Fly Fishing Reels 101: An Expert Guide to the Types of Fly Reels
Balanced with a properly selected rod and fly line weight, a fly fishing reel is an essential piece to an enjoyable day on the water.
A man stands on the bank of a river, raising his rod into the air. He stands on flat, grassy banks but, in the distance, a mountain range rises.
Updated
What to Wear Fly Fishing: Tips for Selecting the Perfect Pants, Clothing, and More
The right outfit adds comfort, safety, utility, and a little bit of style to catching fish. Fly Fishing Expert Andy Sparhawk overviews what you need.
A kayak on the water at sunrise.
Updated
The Best Kayak Options for Fly Fishing
Kayaks are a great and easy way to get to tough-to-reach fishing spots! Fly Fishing Expert Robert Levin shares a few of his favorite models.
Orvis Pro Textured spooled on a Battenkill 3 and fished on an Orvis Super Fine Carbon 8'6" 5Wt.
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Expert Review: Orvis Pro Trout Textured Fly Line
This review is my honest opinion of the fly line, which I purchased with my own money in January of 2023.
The back wall of a fly fishing shop where several different fly lines are available.
Updated
Fly Line: How to Choose What's Best for You
Ready to up your fly fishing game? Fly Fishing Expert Marshall McDougal helps you choose the perfect fly line for your needs.
A trout being released into water.
Updated
Expert Guide to Fly Fishing for Trout in Small Streams
Fly Fishing Expert Rylyn S. gives 7 simple pointers to follow for fishing trout in small streams this season that will have you getting bites in no time!