Fly Fishing Tackle - The Basics for UK Anglers

Fly fishing is a challenging and exhilarating sport enjoyed by many UK sportsmen. There's nothing more exciting than when a fish strikes your lure and the battle begins. Buying fly fishing tackle is a highly individualised process. Here's some general information about fly fishing gear to help you get started.

Fly Fishing Tackle - Match Your Fishing Gear to the Type and Weight of Fish

It's a good idea to consult an expert at a one of the many fishing tackle shops in the UK to be sure that you choose the right fly fishing rod, reel and fly fishing line. In general, if you're hunting large fish, choose a rod, reel and line rated at 9 pounds or above. For mid-weight fish like small bass or trout, fly rods, reels and line rated in the range of 5 to 6 pounds are adequate. For smaller fish such as trout, your gear should be rated at 1 to 3 pounds.

Fly Fishing Tackle - Basic Fly Fishing Equipment Terminology

Before you visit fly fishing tackle shops, you may want brush up on the "language" of tackle. Here are a few important terms:

At the bottom end of the rod is a butt cap made of rubber or sometimes cork. Generally, you'll find butt caps on rods that use line weights of 1 to 6 pounds. The butt cap is constructed so that it can be pressed into the body when fighting to land a fish.

The reel seat is the attachment point for the reel. There are several methods of attachment, but most rods have a threaded hood that screws down onto a foot that extends from the reel. Types of reel seats include up-locking, down-locking and sliding band.

Behind the real seat is the fighting extension, which extends the handle area to allow the fisherman to use both hands when trying to land a fish or when casting. Fighting extensions are generally found on rods that support line weights of 7 or more.

Grips and Guides on Fly Fishing Rods

Grips are generally made of cork. Cigar grips protrude slightly in the center and are found on lighter weight rods. Half-well grips have a flare on one end to help the angler hold the rod securely when fighting a medium-sized fish. Prevalent on heavier rods, full-well grips are thicker and allow a better grip when reeling in large, heavy fish. Rod line guides on fishing tackle for fly casting are loops through which the line passes. The tip-top guide is attached at the end of the pole and helps direct a cast. Snake guides are small metal loops along the length of the rod. The stripping guide is the first guide, helps prevent tangles and reduces friction.

Selecting the right fly fishing tackle, it's not difficult if you seek the advice of our in-store UK fishing experts. Give Keen's Tackle and Guns a call today at 01656 722448.

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