Fly-fishing is a unique style of fishing where anglers rely on artificial flies rather than live bait. Although on the face of it, fly-fishing may appear similar to other angling styles, in reality the experience is entirely different. In this article, we run through six fun facts about fly-fishing that you may not know.
1. Fly-Fishing Became Popular in England During the Industrial Revolution
Although the origins of fly-fishing date back to around 200 CE, it was not until the 1700s, with the advent of factory manufacturing, that mass production of fly-fishing lines started. Fly-fishing techniques became consolidated in the 18th century, and anglers started to gain greater control over casting lines due to advancements like running rings along fishing rods. Rods also became more sophisticated and specialized, with jointed rods becoming popular.
British fly-fishing continued to advance throughout the 19th century, with the creation of elite fly-fishing clubs. Specialist books on fly-fishing techniques were also published during this period.
Modern fly-fishing started in earnest in England, with the production of Nottingham reels. The style of fishing quickly gained traction in the United States after George Snyder of Kentucky began producing similar reels in 1810.
2. Fly-Fishing Became Immensely Popular in the United States in the 1920s
Fly-fishing appealed to immigrants arriving in America during the 1800s, at which time the rivers of Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and upstate New York were all teeming with fish. During the early 20th century, fly fishers also experienced an abundance of fish stocks in Utah, California, and Colorado.
Participation peaked in the eastern states of Vermont and Maine in the early 1920s. The pastime also proved popular in the spring creeks of Wisconsin in the Midwest during this period.
Along with deep sea fishing, Ernest Hemingway also enjoyed this style of angling, popularizing the sport through a couple of his novels.
3. Early Fly Lines Were Made of Horsehair
Measuring 8 to 10 feet long, fly lines were made of hair from horse tails which were woven together to form a tapered line, with two strands at the tip and 40 strands at the butt. This trend continued to be the norm well into the 18th century, when stallion hair was the favored material.
Woven silk fly lines later became popular, remaining the material of choice until the 19th century. By this point, fly lines were longer, stored on a reel, and cast through guides on the fly rod.
4. Fly-Fishing is Suitable for Both Fresh and Saltwater
With 326 million trillion gallons of water to choose from on the planet, many anglers prefer not to restrict themselves, opting to practice the sport on both salt and freshwater. Although lakes and streams tend to be more popular, for those with access to saltwater environments, this presents the opportunity to fish for not just hundreds, but thousands of species, with two thirds of all fish species living in saltwater.
In the Florida flats, wade fishing and boat fishing enable fly-fishers to pursue sea trout, snook, baby tarpon, and bonefish. In the coastal fishers off Texas, many anglers opt to fish from kayaks. Meanwhile, in the Northeast, Chesapeake Bay boasts a huge fishery abundant in blue fish, sea trout, perch, striped bass, and Atlantic croaker.
5. Fly-Fishing Is An Excellent Activity for Children
In an age where children are increasingly spending their free time holed up indoors, playing on game consoles and poring over digital devices, fly-fishing gets them out into the great outdoors, learning an intricate sport where they pit their wits against the most cunning of fish.
With courses available up and down the country, children benefit from the knowledge and experience of skilled fly-fishers, learning all about the equipment and how to properly use it.
For parents, it can be challenging to find a fun activity to coax children out of the house. Fly-fishing can be a great way to inspire them, particularly with proper lessons and mentoring, helping families to spend quality time together surrounded by nature.
6. Fly-Fishing Is the a Very Popular Style of Fishing Today
Fly-fishing is a prime opportunity to get out into the great outdoors, spending time in peaceful solitude. This truly captivating pastime encourages relaxation, good feelings while providing a welcome respite from the stresses and strains of daily life. Fly-fishing encourages enthusiasts to explore new places and embark on new adventures, with many fly-fishers even heading overseas for fly-fishing vacations.
The sport opens up participants to new landscapes and scenery, introducing them to some breathtaking parts of the planet that they may never have discovered otherwise. Not only that, but as with any hobby or interest, there is a social element. Although many anglers opt to fish alone, for those seeking social contact, there are ample opportunities, with huge fly-fishing communities on a local, national, and global scale.