Fly Fishing

Woo hoo! You caught it! Now, for the best part - enjoying it. First, admire your catch, take it in, and, of course, take that picture! Then, inspect the health of your catch. A healthy fish will have bright red gills and bright eyes. Check for discolored or loose scales. If you are keeping the fish, you will want to clean it immediately because digestive enzymes will spoil the taste otherwise.

Having a reliable cooler to keep your fish fresh throughout the fishing trip is critical. Depending on your needs, you can also get a bucket or stinger while on the go.

Once you are in a place to clean the fish, you will want to bleed it with a filet knife. Use a filleting knife and board to fillet it and a scale to measure it. Clean the knife frequently to prevent bacteria from spreading. Once it's successfully bled, wipe the fish clean and store it damp on ice or snow.

Remember to wash and sanitize your hands afterward. You don't want to cross-contaminate surfaces that will make you or others sick.

And...you're snagged! Bumper! With a repair kit, it doesn't have to be the end of your fishing excursion. Sometimes you can wrestle your line out of the branches, and others, you have to give up the good fight. Don't beat yourself up; accidents happen, especially when low-hanging branches are all around.

While doubling up on everything may not be affordable, there are some fundamental multiples to carry in your kit. Always have extra lines. The most common mistakes end in cutting your line. Also, bring a secondary rod, duct tape, a multi-tool, and some extra reel parts.

Most places require a permit and fishing license, don't forget those. Fishing without a license can result in up to a $12,000 fine. You can build your own fishing pond for that, so don't pay for it on someone else's land. Obtain a permit at the local administration center. Carry them on or near you in a waterproof bag in case an officer comes to check.

Include sunglasses to reduce glare, a guidebook to identify different fish, and a headlamp in your pack for early morning or late night. Bring a map or GPS file if you are routing to somewhere remote.

While I love the time spent away from phones, I never leave them behind when going out into the wilderness. It is vital to have a phone if an emergency occurs, to route back home, and check the weather throughout the day. Phones die fast, so bring extra batterie. Since you will be around water, a waterproof case or bag is always wise.

Rivers are always picturesque. You should bring your camera to capture it! It makes for a great lunch break activity before wading back in for another go. If you bring your camera, remember an SD card and batteries too.

The deeper remote, the prettier the scene...the riskier the situation. If you plan to be somewhere with no reception, take a GPS, charger, watch, and batteries to stay safe.

Lures are pointy and where most fishing-related accidents occur. Bringing a first-aid kit is non-negotiable. Buying a pre-made one should have everything you need for minor incidents. If you make one yourself, be sure to include antiseptics and bandaids. Medications such as anti-nausea and ibuprofen are great ideas too. You can get motion sickness by being in the water all day.

The water also reflects the sun. Wear good quality sunscreen throughout the entire trip and lip balm with SPF. If you plan on spending the entire day or are camping, toilet paper and menstrual/urinary products are vital for hygiene.

Imagine a fisherman. What's the first thing you think of? Is it the vest stocked with brightly colored lures or the classic fishing hat? Well, the first thing you must get as a flyfisher is waders. Your plans will determine if you need pant waders or chest waders. Hand in hand, you will want a belt.

If you are wearing pant waders, make sure that whatever clothes you wear on top are suitable for protecting you from the sun. As mentioned, the sun reflects off the water, leading to nasty sunburns. Consider an SPF shirt, gloves, hat, and long-sleeve shirt.

Vests are great for carrying supplies on hand. You can bring extra lures, pliers, and scissors with you in the water. That way, you never miss a good catch!

Many fishermen find thick socks are most comfortable in the waders. Remember to bring other shoes for when you take your waders off. In cold weather and early mornings, bring a base layer, insulating layers, a rain jacket, rain pants, and a buff to stay protected from all the elements.

Keeping yourself nourished is vital while on the go. Flyfishing is relaxing but also a sport that requires your energy. Make sure you have enough water and food for the length of your trip. Bring nutrient-dense non-perishables like sandwiches, bars, and nuts with you. Always bring too much water. It's better to have an abundance than not enough.