Gear For Stillwater Fly Fishing

Stillwater fly fishing can be very rewarding andmeans I can quickly change my line when searching
enjoyable. Some anglers believe that it is necessaryfor fish at various depths. My preference is to use
to own specialized gear in order to fly fish on lakesSixth Sense fly lines, and I'll carry the "slow glass"
and lochs. While specialized gear can be helpful, it'swhich sinks just under the surface; a line that sinks at
not always necessary to have long heavier rods orthe rate of 3" per second; line that sinks at the rate
sinking lines. Fishing from the bank or shore will oftenof 5" per second; and finally, one that sinks at 7" per
get an angler into feeding fish, so even watercraftsecond.
are not always required.When fly fishing for larger fish in lakes, I also prefer a
When fishing ponds and lakes, I will often use a 5 wt.heavier rod of at least 10 1/2 feet in length. These
rod with floating line. Flies will depend on local insectrods are also helpful when casting in windy conditions.
activity, but include everything from dry flies whenWhen the fish are not biting within casting distance
the fish are taking them, nymphs, streamers, wetof the shore or bank, having some type of
flies and chironomids.watercraft is of course an advantage. If you are on
There are times when I will want to use some othera budget but want to get out away from the shore,
gear such as sinking lines. When there is no actionconsider an inflatable float tube. They are easily
near the surface, I like to take along a cassette reeltransported and can make stillwater fly fishing very
system that has spools of different line types. Thisenjoyable!