Fly fishing is a great pastime to start in Wyoming because you have access to some of the best fishing spots in the country, including Yellowstone and Jackson Hole. To begin, though, there are several items that you must get before you head out. Here is the gear you need to start fly fishing.

Rod, Reel, and Line

Forming the foundation of any angler’s tools, the rod and its associated parts are all absolute essentials. Rods vary by length and weight. Generally, the longer and heavier a rod is, the better it is for larger bodies of water and larger fish. Match your reel and line types to the rod that you choose to give it proper balance and make it optimally useable.

Leader and Tippet

Since the lines you use in fly fishing are colorful and weighted, you need the leader and tippet to make your attached flies more inconspicuous to fish. They also help with your turnover, which is the movement you make when you cast the line, pointing the rod in the opposite direction first, then moving it in the direction you want to cast your line. The leader connects to the main line and is transparent. You connect the tippet to the end of the leader and use it to tie the fly.

Waders

You need to find quality waterproof waders for fly fishing as well. Because your casting motion involves the line moving behind you, it’s not always practical to stand on the land at the edge of the water, as it can get caught in trees and bushes. The solution is to stand in the water. Waders are needed here because they keep you dry and comfortable. The boots that are attached to them or that you wear with them also prevent you from slipping.

Flies and Fly Box

The flies are the bait that you utilize to attract and hook fish. There are three main varieties: nymphs, dry flies, and streamers. Nymphs float underwater and look like insect larvae. Dry flies look like full-grown insects and float on the water’s surface. Streamers are the largest and emulate small fish or bigger insects. It’s a good idea to obtain several of each, as different settings and different fish may call for a specific fly. You should also have a fly box with you to carry your flies, since they’re easy to lose amongst your other equipment.