Thread: Suggestions for a NEW fly fisherman.

6-7 weight to start for sure. I tried to learn with a 4wt and was frustrated for 3 years and gave up for 2 years. I got a 7wt and learned how to use it very quickly and using the 4wt was easier to adjust to.

One thing I have read on fishing from a boat is that if you are not standing up you mgiht want a longer rod. 11' seems to be what was rdecommended just to keep the backcast off the water and get a good load for the cast. I do okay in my pontoon boat with my 9' 7wt but I do sacrifice about 20-30% of my distance.

As for all the different types of fly line, start with weight forward and then learn to throw the others. They do cast differently so trying to learn with all of them will give you a head ache and maybe a couple flies in the back of the head.

Thanks for all the words of wisdom. I have acquired a 4 wt Sage rod w/ a 4 wt G Loomis reel--tried it in Tennessee around Thanksgiving with a local guide there. Spent most of the day learning some casting techniques and the other part of the day untangling the mess I would make!!
We did manage a couple of fish, and I learned a lot--and so begins a new goal in my fishing world.
Additionally, Red Stick Fly Fishing club held a rod building clinic--many thanks to Mr Catch Cormier--started a 6 wt and plan to set her up to fish from a kayak for reds and specks...
Never realized how addictive this sport is!

Thanks again everyone-- See ya on the water!!