101 Fly Fishing Tips for Beginners

Page 11

Tip #28:  Fishing in Stormy Weather

Fly fishing in stormy weather can come with its own particular challenges.  A storm occurs when winds come up suddenly, without warning, and without any indication of how long the storm will last.  One big concern during a storm is thunderstorms.            

If you’re out fishing and a storm occurs there are some precautions that you’ll want to take.  You’ll want to head for higher ground immediately if you’re near the water and there are thunderstorms in the area.  If there is no sign of thunder or lightning you may choose to ride out the storm and continue fishing.  In this case you’ll have to adjust your fishing technique to reflect the change in weather.              

When you’re fishing along the shore and a storm comes up you can take advantage of the wind.  You’ll often be able to catch fish at very shallow levels in windy weather conditions however these will probably be small bass.  You’ll find bigger fish in at deeper depths during storms but these sized fish will be harder to catch and you should focus your efforts on the smaller ones. 

Tip #29:  Etiquette and Rules you Need to Know

There are certain styles of etiquette and rules that you should follow when you’re fishing for any type of fish. 

• “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”:  Whenever you’re fishing, whether on the shoreline or in a boat, make sure that you treat others with the same respect that you would want to be treated.
• Keep your distance:  When you’re fishing around other anglers make sure that you keep a good distance away from them so that they have enough room.  Take note of the direction that others are casting and give them ample berth both in a boat and on the shoreline.
• Keeping secrets:  If someone shares their favorite fishing spot with you and asks that you not give this location to others you should honor the request. 
• Get permission:  If you want to fish on private property, such as a farm pond, make sure that you get permission first.  When you leave the area after fishing it should look the same as when you arrived.
• Other fishers:  Keep in mind that not all fishers are bass fishers and that everyone deserves your respect no matter what type of fish they are fishing for. 
• Fishing license:  Depending where you live, there will different rules and regulations for licensing.  In most states or provinces you’ll need a freshwater license if you want to catch freshwater fish.  Your fishing license should be specific to the type of fish that you’re going to be catching.  Always make sure that you know the rules and regulations of the lake, river, stream, or other water area that you’re going to be fishing.  This includes when you can fish, where you can fish, and how many fish you can take out of the water.

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