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Step 1
Use a dark salmon fly if it's a dark and dreary day. If it's a bright day, use a bright salmon fly. You also can match the salmon fly with the color of the water. For dark, murky water, use a darker salmon fly. In bright, clear water, use a bright, clear salmon fly. Consider the climate, too. On warmer days, use colors that allow the salmon fly to blend into the water. Yellow and orange work best on colder days.
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Step 2
Take note of the salmon spawning seasons. You can use salmon for fly fishing in the summer or fall. Upon returning from spawn, salmon often don't eat for awhile. If you happen to find where the salmon lay fish, cast your salmon fly near that area. The salmon will usually strike out of agitation.
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Step 3
Determine where you are fishing and what weight salmon are available for catching. Also determine if you are casting on shore or wading. Heavier salmon flies require a heavier, longer rod. These types of rods are generally used for wading in lakes. If you are fishing creeks and streams, a smaller salmon fly and a smaller rod is required.
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Step 4
Adapt your cast according to wind speed, wind direction and direction of the water flow. Never cast over head as you could get hit with the lure. Always use spey casting and employ a single, double or snake roll. If the wind is downstream, use a double spey or snake roll cast. If the wind is upstream, use the single spey cast.
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Step 5
Equip yourself with the appropriate salmon flies and rods. If the water is low, it's best to use a small salmon fly, a light line and a light rod. Float the salmon fly over the water. Softly cast the fly so that you don't disturb the water with even the smallest ripple. Also cast as far out as possible. The salmon fly should be dark or patterned.
