How to Fly Fish in Different Currents

When fishing different currents, it is helpful to remember the golden rule of fly fishing: In the majority of fly-fishing situations the most effective way to catch fish is to present the fly to the fish in a manner that has the fly approaching the fish before the line and leader, and without any drag. Drag is any unnatural movement of the fly in the water, such as being pulled or skimmed instead of a natural, fluid drift through the current. The fly should look as if it is floating freely, unattached to the line.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fly rod
• Fly reel, loaded with fly line
• Waders
• Boots

Making the best presentation

1. Look over the current and identify likely holding places for fish. Fish prefer an area of the current that provides cover and protection from predators, gives the fish a break from fighting the full force of the current, and delivers a steady flowing stream of food. Examples include: areas behind rocks, at the tail end of a shallow riffle that feeds into a deeper pool, and along undercut banks.

2. Take note of the differing currents where you fish. Currents are rarely uniform. There is usually slow current next to faster moving water. Observe the manner in which bubbles foam or leaves float. This is the type of float you want to duplicate with your fly. Anticipate at what speed the fly will be floating when you cast. Then think about what speed the line closer to you will be moving.

3. Cast the fly line just upstream of the area you've identified as a holding place for fish. As soon as the fly line and fly hit the water, they will begin to move at different speeds. If not addressed quickly, your fly will begin to drag and greatly reduce your chances of catching a fish.

4. 

   Mend the line. Immediately after casting the fly and line, the line will be laid out in roughly a straight line from your rod tip to the fly. You now need to make sure the fly will approach the fish before the line. Focus on the tip of your rod. Pick up the fly line by lifting the rod. Then flick the line back upstream of the fly. Then make adjustments to this mending technique based on whether the water the fly is in is moving faster or slower than the water that is closer to you.

Tips & Warnings

• It is easier to mend the fly line if you do it as quickly as possible once you cast, before the fly has a chance to sink and your line settles into the surface film. Mend the line all the way up to the leader, otherwise your line may still cause drag on the fly.

Resources

• Fly fishing 101 for beginners.

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