Fly Fishing Equipment

Hemostats – There is a lot to be said for such a simple device. However, even though it is simple it is probably the one thing that will aid the angler the most when it comes to gadgets. Hemostats can be used many ways. The best way is to allow the angler true access to a fly that has been engulfed by a trout. Sometimes it is almost impossible to get to a size 18 Trico recessed back in a trouts gullet. Hemos can also be used to hold flies that are being readied for the line. Another use is as a plier. One time your author had a nice size hook imbedded in his thigh. The hemos gave be the control I neded to successfully control the hook.
Leader Straightener – This device is used to straighten the inevitable kinks and curves that will develop in a leader. These imperfections can be caused by tangled loops or by prolonged real storage. They work for both a tapered leader and an assembled leader provided care of the knots is taken. Leader straighteners are most often made of two pieces of leather and two pieces of rubber combined so that the two rubber faces touch. Passing the leader through this device with a gentle pressure is the best way of doing the job but with use you will get the feel for how much pressure is needed for the leader you are using.
Strike Indicator – These useful devices are helpful in letting the angler see the strike more clearly. Strike indicators can be made from many substances. Yarn, balsa, polypropylene, and even dry flies. Another product is the paste style strike indicator. This product can be molded onto the fly line and usually comes in neon colors.
Thermometer – A good thermometer is encased s that it will endure the hardships of an oyutdoor tool. For many anglers, the thermometer adds a new dimension when trying to recognize the trouts behavior in certain temperature conditions. A good practice is to measure the temperature of the stream at the startm middle and end of the day. It may also be good take a reading when insect activity is at its peak.
Vials – Vials are nothing but small containers that an angler interested in retaining an insect specimen can use. Sometimes it is worth the effort to capture some insects from your favorite stream in order to match the hatch later. Some folks collect the insects for photography. While they are not a requirement for any fishing trip it is sometimes helpful to have at least one in case you want to ask a master tyer to immate that specific insect.
Zinger – a zinger helps to keep all of your tools accessible. The most common use is retain a nipper device. These are always needed when tying on a fly. The zinger ensures that the angler has the tool and that it is in the same place always. Zingers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some have two lanyards attached while others are shaped like fly reels. One quality to look for is that they are not shiny. Black or brown is the ideal color. While this wont help all the time it will stop the possibility of sending the suns reflection through the water.
Nippers – The second most utilized gadget that is of use to the avid angler is a good pair of nippers. Nippers allow the angler to make neat cuts when trimming the tag ends of knots. AS tippet material is very fine it takes a very fine tool to make a clean and precise cut. When thinking of purchasing this tool, keep in mind that there are many out there and the tool could almost be replaced by a good pair of fingernail clippers. Nevertheless, if you invest in this tool you should look for one that has a sharp cutting blade and if possible, a nail knot tool and a pin for clearing the eye of hooks such as the one seen here.
Flashlight – Flashlights come in many shapes and sizes. Althought the useful time of this while one is out on the wtare is often very limited, there are times that a good light would help tie that last fly on at the end of the day. Or it can assist the nightime hunter of brown trout. The best type of light will be one that is hands free. They aqre made now with flexible shafts and hat mounts. The one pictured to the left is my personal favorite. It allows complete freedom and there is no need to tilt your head as with some of the head mounted lamps.
Waders – Waders are also an item that is really suited to the individual angler. Waders come n a range of sizes and prices. Ultimately they should fit and allow for a good range of movement. While waders are not needed in warmer waters they are a must in the cooler climates. Attention be given to whether a boot foot or stocking foot wader is purchased. Boot foot waders are useful and less expensive but it makes a little more sense to use the stocking foot even though there is the extra cost of a wading boot. Wading boots surpass any produced boot foot wader on the market and the name of the game is safety.