• A balanced outfit (rod and line
weights) makes for more efficient casting. We suggest you let your
guide try your rod for a few casts to make that determination.
• In a majority of boat fishing situations a
6 wt. rod is adequate. The 5 wt. and 7 wt. rods also have their
application, i.e. small dries and wind.
• A stiff butt section between fly line and
leader is recommended for better presentations as turnover is
enhanced. Let your guide cut off perfection loops as these tangle
too frequently.
• Leaders are the terminal part of your
tackle. There are some very good one-piece leaders on the market
that are strong and durable.
• The use of two flies has its place, but
they are more difficult to turn over and tangle way too much. Based
on the number of belly scarred fish I've encountered, we rarely
use nymph droppers anymore.
• There are two very good texts for the
anglers who want to improve their casting skills:
The Essence of Fly Casting – Mel Krieger, Country Man, 2001
Advanced Fly Casting –
Lefty Kreh, Lyons Press, 2001
• When boat fishing with two anglers,
patience and teamwork are required. Let your guide coach you both
into fish by orchestrating the casting in tricky holding water.
• Boat fishing is also called drift fishing.
With the right oarsman, the boat is a marvelous fishing tool. Longer
drifts equals opportunity.
• While wade fishing, always use the heron
approach – stalk and stealth.
• Having your own dry bag to keep your gear,
i.e. rain jacket, gloves, extra reels, fleece layering, is a good
idea.
