Fly Fishing

I read a book, River Girls, in September 2009. This is a story , complete with instructions, about women fly fishing with knowledge and skill. There were four girls highlighted, each discussing how they got interested in fly fishing and the mentors that taught them. I decided that I could learn to and have studied the lessons presented in River Girls.

When I finished the book, I picked up a cheap fly rod and reel combo and started to employ the techniques that I'd read about. The first hurdle was knot typing. Oh my gosh, why don't girls learn knots in Girl Scouts! It took me three hours to decide that I could not tie a Nail Knot! The Nail Knot is a flat lying knot that ties the fly line to the Leader. The leader is a thiner monofilament line to which you tie the fly. This was not a good experience for me and I ended up at Garrison's Sporting Goods for advise from the resident fishing expert.

At the fly shop, the salesman was really helpful and kind. He didn't laugh at my gear but he guided me to better fly line, tied it onto the reel, and secured a leader. He told me to tie a piece of yarn on the end of the leader and practice casting. Since that day in October, I've been working on my casting, following the directions in the River Girls book. I've learned to tie the fly on with a Improved Cinch Knot, collected some gear including a new rod, waders, boots, vest, net, and flies. And even learned to use tippet, split shot, and a little bit about nymphs, dry flies, and streamers.

I've gotten advise from my friend in Alabama, Charlie, and a Wildlife Guide, Ryan, at the ranch. My effort has paid off with fish on the hook. I caught 4 bass in the pond near our house and have also landed about 9 trout in the stream near the lodge (catch and relase , of course).

Finally, with this small amount of success, I've joined a group of ladies that meet monthly, go fishing together, and host clinic events to promote the sport of fly fishing. The Colorado Women's Fly Fishing Association meets in Denver and so far have planned about 2 trips per month between April 1 and Oct 30th. The first outing is March 27th to the South Platte near Deckers, CO. I'm excited to go but also a little nervous to show off my skills, or lack of them.

I'll write more as I learn more. Check back on the blog, hopefully, I'll be posting some pictures of big trout caught on the fly at interesting places in Colorado!

Jane