Fly Fishing Basics: Wet Fly vs. Dry Fly



Posted: Wednesday, February 20, 2008

by
http://www.squidoo.com/sinclairlewis

One of the first things you'll need to learn when you're getting into fly fishing is the difference between a wet fly and a dry fly. This can be hard to learn early on just because it seems so basic a fact among so many long time anglers. But we all start out as complete newbies, so this is a great place to start.

The type of fly you use, and therefore the type of fly fishing you'll be practicing, depends a lot on what type of fishing you plan on doing. Fly fishing comes in two forms: wet fly fishing or dry fly fishing, hence the difference between wet flies and dry flies.

Dry fly fishing is the type most often portrayed, and among some anglers is considered the "purer" of the two types of fly fishing. This type of fly fishing is done with a fly that will float on the surface o the water, whether it's a creek, stream, lake, or river. The fish have to hit the lure on the surface for you to hook it and reel in.

As might be expected, Wet fly fishing involves a different type of lure. A wet fly is one that goes underwater. Some of these types of fly fishing lures can even sink all the way to the bottom if they are designed for. Wet fly fishing flies are made to be mobile below the water's surface, and usually with wet fly fishing an angler will use multiple flies at once to up the chances of success.

If you're looking to go the traditional route with dry fly fishing, then summer is the best time for you to spend time in the water. The summer has the most insects and mosquitoes that fish feast on, which is exactly what you are trying to make your fly simulate. There are also decent times in the fall for dry fly fishing.

Wet fly fishing isn't as restrictive since the fly lures go under water, allowing them to seem realistic for longer periods of the year. Regardless of which type of fly you choose to use, learning more about each style will help give you a leg up on enjoying this great new recreation.

So those are the two types of fly fishing. Knowing which style interests you most will help to ensure that you will purchase the right gear that you need for your new hobby!

If you enjoyed this article but want to know more, please visit me at http://www.squidoo.com/make-your-own-fly-fishing-lures

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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Keith Cantelmo
 2 years 46 days ago.
7 fans.
Well formatted, great initial information for some juts thinking about fly fishing.  Easy to understand and informative.
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