Fly fishing is a distinct and ancient angling method most renowned as a method for catching trout and salmon, but employed today for a wide variety of species.
Fish are caught by using artificial flies that are cast with a fly rod and a fly line. Unlike other casting methods, fly fishing can be thought of as a method of casting line rather than lure.
Non-fly fishing methods rely on a lure’s weight to pull line from the reel during the forward motion of a cast. In fly casting the weight of fly line carries the almost weightless fly to its destination.
Artificial flies are created by tying hair, fur, feathers, or other materials onto a hook with thread. The flies are tied in sizes, colours and patterns to match local terrestrial and aquatic insects, baitfish, or other prey attractive to the target fish species.
Q1. Can you fly fish in Saskatchewan?
A. Saskatchewan offers a range of fly fishing options. Generally speaking, all lakes that contain fish can be fly fished. And, there are hundreds of stocked trout waters, both lakes and streams, to choose from.
Q2. Isn’t fly fishing just for trout?
A. No, although trout is often our ‘species of choice’, many club members fish for a variety of species including pike and walleye.
Q3. I heard it’s difficult to learn fly fishing? Can anyone learn?
A. Fly fishing could take a lifetime to master, but most people can pick up the basics of casting and tying in just a few days (sometimes an afternoon). Fly fishing is an accessible sport for all.
Q4. Is the sport of fly fishing expensive?
A. No, a good starter setup can be purchased for less than $250. The Kilpatrick Flyfishers have equipment available for new members to try their hand at casting (a good way to try the sport without investing any money).