Learn the basics
|
Women Who Fly Fish
Women Who Fly Fish
Written by Cathy Fiedler of Creston, BC You cast the line into the run. Down below a fish is possibly waiting for a meal to cross its path. You aren't sure where it may be, but you scan the water and cast anyway. Your fly gently rides the current. You can see it fading as it drifts farther, but just then, it's gone and for a moment you aren't sure if it sank below the surface. Your line goes taut, and the rod bends. Fish on. You try to gather your line. Pure instinct and adrenaline take overriding what you previously learned. Frantically you try to find your net that you set down somewhere around you, and you let slack in the line. As quickly as your rod bent over it, it now is pointing straight up in the air. With meters of line wrapped up in the tree behind you. As much as you are disappointed in losing the fish and not having had the chance to lay an eye on it, you are feeling exhilarated. It's your first fish. There may be many fishless days, but the planning for the next adventure has already begun. Many are joining the ranks of their fellow fisherwomen and taking up the sport of Fly Fishing. Contrary to popular belief it isn't that difficult to get started. I suggest you find a mentor or take a few lessons to help familiarize yourself with the gear and tackle with some instruction on how to use it before you make that initial investment. You only need the basics, and although it may feel a little intimidating entering your local Fly Shop, you will find the staff very friendly and helpful. Once you develop your skill and knowledge, it won't be so confusing and over time, you will understand the uses of all the cool stuff filling the store. You may even find yourself wanting to tie your own flies. It can be very rewarding catching a fish on a fly you tied yourself.
Regardless of your age, or fitness level, Fly Fishing is very beneficial for wellbeing and therapeutic in many ways. It helps connect us to nature and helps us stay focused and in-the-moment. Your senses become alive and sharp, and you are fully engaged and aware of your surroundings. You are exhilarated and calm at the same time. Fly Fishing is great in helping to reduce stress. Some of my most memorable and fun days have been fishing with other women. I highly recommend you try to develop a network of ladies to join you fishing. I don't advocate fishing alone, but I have on many occasions so if you do, have a backup plan and take all safety precautions. I am by no means an expert, but I do have a love and passion for fishing. I am lucky to have had wonderful opportunities and great mentors. Working for the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has helped me to learn about Fish species and some of the amazing Lakes we stock here in the Kootenays. One thing I'd like to pass on that helped me is that you do not need a degree in entomology or have to be a great fly caster to enjoy Fly Fishing. It's all about fun, so all you need is water with fish in it, and you're on your way. Fishing has become a lifestyle for me that I would love to share with anyone interested in having a mentor. If you are interested in joining in on an Intro to fly fishing class, you can contact me at [email protected] for future classes. "Many go fishing all of their lives, without knowing it is not the fish they are after." -Henry David Thoreau |
Site by: SC
|