Fly Fishing Rods – Getting The Bends

by: Richard Chapo

Picking a fly fishing rod is a tricky endeavor. Do you go with your ego, expected fishing environment or something else? While length is a factor, the bend or action of the rod is a key factor.

Flexibility

Fly fishing rods are often defined by their flexibility. In laymen’s terms, flexibility means how far the rods will bend when the same casting effort is used.

Minimal Bend

A fly fishing rod that has minimum bend is often called a “fast” rod. The lack of bend lets the angler get lots of speed on the cast. This speed allows you to cast very accurately and farther away than rods with more bends. While these benefits may sound great at first glance, a fast rod can be frustrating. There is no room for error when using the rod. If you are going to use one of these rods, you need excellent motion and timing. Generally, only anglers with a lot of experience should have a go at using fast rods.

Moderate Bend

The next step down from a fast rod is one with medium flexibility. These rods tend to have good flexibility, but the bend is restricted to the top half of the rod. The rod requires less perfection of motion and timing, but is fairly accurate. If you’ve been angling for a while and have the basic techniques down, a moderately flexible rod is worth a try.

Slinky Bend

If you are just taking up fly fishing, you should use a rod with maximum flexibility. While others suggest a moderate bend is better for beginners, a “slinky bend” rod gives you a lot of leeway when it comes to learning to cast.

Fly fishing is relaxing and enjoyable. Pick the wrong rod, however, and it can quickly become frustrating and stressful. If you use your brain, not your ego, when picking a rod, you will have a blast.

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - makers of writing journals for fly fishing anglers. See Fly Fishing Journals on our site.

Bamboo Fly Fishing Rods

by: John Tiger

Fishing Tips - Bamboo Fly Fishing Rods

Beyond a doubt the best fly fishing rod material is good bamboo properly selected, cured, split, glued, and correctly proportioned. It possesses strength combined with lightness, resiliency, pliancy, power and balance in greater degree than either steel or solid woods.

Formerly anglers and rod makers could draw fine distinctions between male and female Calcutta and Tonkin " canes," but under present conditions good Calcutta is very rare and the word " Calcutta " is be¬coming merely a trade term. Good bamboo of all kinds is more difficult to obtain and a good piece of Tonkin is better than an indifferent one of Calcutta. Male Calcutta, however, is supposed to be superior to either the female or Tonkin. The cheapest split cane is known as steel vine or African cane. It is light colored and makes up into good, inexpensive bamboo fly fishing rods.

Six Strip and 8 Strip Bamboo Fly Fishing Rods

We assume that you know that bamboo is split and then glued together in order to utilize the hard outer enamel and reduce the diameter of the pieces. Some rods are made of bamboo split into six sections (hex¬agonal) and some in eight (octagonal) but the six strip construction is more often used. Some makers claim that the eight strip, being more nearly a true cylinder, possesses better action but this seems to be more theoretical than practical, while the tiny tips of an eight strip rod are likely to be " soft" due to the comparative amount of glue necessary to hold the pieces together. Eight strip rods cost more than the six strip and if the angler wants a round bamboo fly fishing rod they are preferable to the six strip planed down as planing certainly must injure a rod. As a general rule a well-made six strip rod leaves little to be desired.

Special Feature Bamboo Fly Fishing Rods

A novelty in bamboo fly fishing rod making is what is known as the " double built " rods which are made of two layers of split and glued bamboo, one within the other. They are heavier and strong, and it is claimed, hold their shape better, than ordinary rods and are popular for sea and salmon fishing but unnecessary, I believe, in single hand fly rods. An English innovation is the steel center rod which consists of a fine piece of well-tempered steel running as a core through sections of regular split bamboo. The makers claim this construction gives a rod of superior casting power with only of an ounce added weight. Friends who possess rods of this kind are enthusiastic admirers of this construction for heavy fishing.

An American maker supplies a rod of " twisted bam¬boo " which he claims equalizes the strain and pro¬duces better action. I have never tried a rod of this type so am unable to pass on its merits, but Perry Frazer, in his " Amateur Rodmaking," speaks well of it.

To get more fishing tips then make sure you visit http://www.fishingcenterguides.com

Will M has been fishing for over 10 years and picked up a lot of good tips for catching many types of fish

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Fishing By Moon Phase: Increase Your Catch

by: David Rose

Every fisherman dreams of a bigger catch! Is it possible to know beforehand when you should plan a trip to enjoy some fishing, catch more than usual, and come home feeling 100% satisfied? Based on my own personal research around the best fishing times, I think it is.

When I first started fishing, the best fishing time for me was whatever time happened to suit me. I tried different lures, baits and techniques until I'd spent a small fortune in my quest to improve my fishing catch. When I finally heard about the "Solunar Theory"--or fishing by moon phase--like most anglers, I was skeptical.

What I'd read sounded too complicated. All sorts of factors needed to be checked and the determined angler needed to be at the water's edge at exactly the right time, TO THE MINUTE, in order to improve on his average catch. Was I really willing to take my hobby that seriously? Let's just say that curiosity got the better of me.

To help me determine whether there was any truth in the moon's effect on the best fishing times, I kept a record of every trip I made over a period of 18 months. All information related to the moon's phases, the weather conditions and the catches I made were carefully logged. What I discovered convinced me that moon phase fishing works. BUT, I also found that it isn't anywhere near as complicated as many would have us believe.

How Does Fishing By Moon Phase Work?

Every fisherman knows that the best fishing times are when the fish are feeding. This tends to be during dawn and dusk, but what often goes unnoticed are the two periods elsewhere in the day--moonrise and moonset. Because the moon has an effect on a variety of factors surrounding the fish--including the live fodder they hunt--these periods, combined with the moon's phase, are what trigger feeding.

By understanding this, and choosing times when sunrise/sunset and moonrise/moonset coincide with new or full moon phases, you'll increase you chance of a good fishing catch. Assuming there are fish in the area, of course.

Choosing The Best Fishing Times

There really is nothing complicated about this at all; it's just a matter of knowing ahead of time exactly when the sun and moon will rise and set. Fish are most active during 90-minute windows surrounding each of these four daily events; that's 45 minutes before and after these four daily points.

Fishing during these four periods will help increase your fishing catch, but if you plan wisely so as to ensure you're at the water's edge on the days of new or full moon, you can use these 'windows' to reel in a catch like you've never done before. If you have to choose between sunrise/set and moonrise/set, always go with the moon as the moon is the stronger influence.

Hunters have always known that fish and game are most active at dawn and dusk--sunrise and sunset--but their activity surrounding moonrise and moonset is less noticeable because these events are likely to occur without e­ffecting any change in the perceived light. The rise and set of a new moon is invisible anyway, and overcast weather often hides the moon. Without prior knowledge of setting and rising times, two of the best fishing times will be missed every day!

Other Considerations

When planning your fishing by moon phase, there are certain other factors that should also be considered.

Weather - Severe weather changes have an impact on the way fish feed. When a storm's brewing, or just after one has passed, is a good time. If this happens while you're in place, you'll be in for a treat! However, if there's a cold front approaching, the fish are likely to move deeper into the water and become inactive.

Season - Most fish are more likely to bite willingly during seasonal transitions with the transition from winter to spring and summer to fall being the two best fishing times.

Now that you know that moon phase fishing really works, there's no reason why you shouldn't utilize this knowledge to increase your own fishing catch by being at the ready with your rod during the best fishing times available. It's easy and it works!

Good luck!

Fit The Fishing Rod To The Fishing Task

by: Ron King

See yourself standing on the bank of a swiftly moving stream in the shade of a gnarled willow, your fishing rod bent beneath the weight of an unusually large catch.

Whether or not you land that fish depends on the decisions you made at the shop -- primarily the type of rod.

The ABCs Of Fishing Rods

Your rod is the most important tool you will use while fishing, and you can chose from a wide range of types, styles and lengths.

A fishing rod is a shaft of graphite, fiberglass, steel, wood or bamboo used to catch fish (duh). Fishing filament (line), is threaded through the ferrules (eyes) along the rod. The ferrule at the tip directs the cast. 1 end of the line winds around a reel at the base of the pole. The other end of the line has a baited hook attached to it.

Fishing rods vary from 4 feet (for children) to 16 feet, with the average being 6 feet long. Rod length is chosen based on: the species of fish you target and the environment you will fish at.

Landscape

If your fishing hole is beside trees with overhead branches, you'll need a short, flexible rod. Flexibility -- the amount the rod can bend before breaking -- is determined by the diameter of the pole. Light rods are thin and flexible, while stronger rods are thicker and more rigid.

For open terrain, flexible, thin rods that are 10 to 12 feet long are good, unless it is too windy.

Fresh Water Or Salt Water?

Freshwater fishing occurs in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, while saltwater fishing is done in oceans and along the coast. Choose a rod appropriate to the environment.

Plan For Species Of Fish

Short, strong rods are best for landing game fish. Stronger and thicker rods should be used for large, aggressive fish. Such fish could break a lighter pole.

Select Rod By Material

Common types of fishing rods include bamboo, fiberglass and graphite.

Bamboo rods can be a basic, inexpensive pole with a line attached, to very expensive handcrafted rods that are used for fly-fishing. Bamboo rods run from $5 up to hundreds of dollars for handcrafted fly fishing rods. If you are not planning to do fly-fishing, fiberglass or graphite rods are best.

Fiberglass rods are good for beginners and kids and they're reasonably priced. They come in many lengths, flexibility characteristics, and require very little maintenance.

Many experienced anglers prefer graphite rods, because they are very lightweight and extremely strong.

A Fitting Rod

Fly Fishing Journals – Keep Track of Your Trips

by: Richard Chapo

Fly fishing is addictive. Once you start, you'll never stop. Whether you are going to the
local water hole or to Alaska, you should use a fly fishing journal to keep track of your sessions.

Fly Fishing Journals

Fly fishing is more than just fishing, it’s a peaceful, surreal activity. For many, there is almost a meditative quality to casting. For avid fly fisherman, fly fishing trips to locations such as the Battenkill River in Vermont, Green River in Utah and Letort in Pennsylvania are a must. Of course, the possibility of trips to Argentina, Alaska and other exotic locations can make ones eyes glassy. For many, however, past fly fishing experiences fade from the memory with time. If you had keep a fly fishing journal, this doesn’t have to be the case.

There are famous instances of people keeping journals throughout time. Of course, Anne Frank’s Diary is the best example. In her diary, Anne kept a running commentary of the two years her family spent hiding from the Nazis. While your fly fishing sessions will hopefully be more lighthearted, keeping a journal will let you remember them as the years pass.

A good fly fishing journal combines a number of characteristics. First, it should be compact. Second, it should have a water-resistant pages and a case to protect it from the elements. Third, the journal should contain blank areas to write your notes. Fourth, the journal should contain cue spaces to remind you to keep notes on specific things. Cues should include:

1. Who you went fishing with,

2. The weather conditions,

3. The fishing conditions,

4. The flies you used, what worked and what didn’t,

5. What you caught, and

6. Lodging and places to eat,

As time passes, your fly fishing journal can be used as:

1. A guide for you or friends that return the same location,

2. Information on gear and flies to take,

3. Memories to reflect upon years later, and

4. Something to pass on to your children and grandchildren.

Keeping a fly fishing journal only requires a few minutes of writing. You can fill it out on the ride home or during a break. As time passes, your journal will become a collection of incredibly valuable fly fishing information. Imagine the look on a friend’s face after they mention going on a trip and you whip out your journal for the spot!

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of writing journals for outdoor activities and travel. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read outdoor activity and travel articles.

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Travel Journals - makers of writing journals and BusinessTaxRecovery.com - recoverying overpaid business taxes for small businesses.

Eel And Eelskin Lures

by: Keith Lee

Eel and eelskin lures are used mostly in saltwater to catch such
fish as striped bass, bluefish, snook, and marlin. The most
difficult part about making eel and eelskin lures will often be
obtaining the eels themselves. The eel usually used is the so- called "common eel" found from Labrador to Brazil along the Atlantic
Coast.

The females reach a large size and live in freshwater rivers,
streams, and lakes. The males are much smaller and live in saltwater
bays, sounds, and tidal creeks. These are the ones usually used for
bait. Live eels are caught with eel pots baited with dead fish,
small baitfish, crushed clams, or crabs.

These pots, which are similar to minnow traps, are wire cages with
funnel entrances on both ends. The eels enter through the
funnel holes, but once inside have trouble finding their way out.

Live or frozen eels can also be purchased from many fish markets,
bait dealers, and fishing tackle stores. The size will depend on the
fishing tackle you use and the fish you want to catch. Small eels
from 8 to 12 in. long are best with light tackle such as spinning
outfits; the larger eels from 12 to 20 in. are used with heavier
surf outfits and for trolling for big fish.

To rig an eel you will need a long needle such as an upholsterer's
needle. It should be anywhere from 12 to 14 in. long. You can also
make your own needle, using a brass or copper rod about 1/8 in. in
diameter. One end should be filed to a point while the other end is
given an eye or a slot to which a line can be tied.

You also need some 6/0, 7/0, 8/0 or 9/0 hooks, again depending on
the size of the eel. The larger the eel, the larger the hooks
required. Light tackle and lines need smaller hooks than heavier
fishing tackle. The sizes of hooks range from 10 (tiny) down to 1
(small) and then back up from 1/0, 2/0 (medium) through 8/0 (large)
and all the way up to 24/0 (great white shark size).

Steel is usually the base metal from which hooks are made but there
are also other types of steel including high carbon, blued, black,
bronzed, cadmium, nickel-plated, stainless, etc. The O'Shaughnessy
pattern of hook is usually used for rigging eels, but some anglers
prefer the Siwash or salmon pattern and still others use Eagle Claw
hooks. Whichever type of hook you use, it should have a ringed eye.

Finally, you need some linen or nylon fishing line testing from 45
to 60 pounds. But more importantly, you should pay more attention to
your fishing leader which is potentially the weakest link. More
information on making fishing leaders can be found at
http://www.make-your-own-fishing-lures.com/making-fishing-
leaders.html .

Keith Lee is a practical, do-it-yourself angler and owns Make-Your-Own-Fishing-Lures.com , an info-packed website on making fishing lures. Learn how to make high-quality fishing lures at http://www.make-your-own-fishing-lures.com and use it as your trusted guide on home made fishing lures.

Keith Lee is a practical, do-it-yourself angler and owns Make-Your-Own-Fishing-Lures.com , an info-packed website on making fishing lures. Learn how to make high-quality fishing lures at http://www.make-your-own-fishing-lures.com and use it as your trusted guide on home made fishing lures

What you need to know about deep fishing

by: jay moncliff

The equipment used to deep fish is basically the same as other fishing equipment. In deep fishing, though, the equipment has to be suited to fishing in the depths of the water. The line need to be stronger because the fish are stronger and larger. Instead of a pole, a hand reel is used. The hand reel is attached to the boat and reels in the line. The set up of deep fishing equipment starts with the mainline. The main line attaches to the hand reel and needs to be long enough to go the required depth. Attached to the mainline is the terminal rig. The terminal rig holds smaller line, called trace lines. These trace lines hold the hooks and bait. Some fisherman also attach a chum bucket to the terminal rig. A chum bucker contains ground up bait, called chum. Periodically this chum is released to attract fish. On the bottom of the line is the sinker. The sinker must be heavy enough to pull the line to the bottom. The most important part of deep fishing is the bait. It should be fresh and well attached to the hook. Try double-hooking (attaching the bait through two points with the hook) to ensure it doesn't fall off. Because you are working at great depths, you need to make sure your bait will work good. All of this equipment will ensure you have a nice deep fishing experience.

The three basic types of deep fishing each use a certain method to attract to fish or catch the fish. Anchoring and chumming is a type of deep fishing that relies heavily on the use of a chum bucket. The chum bucket is the main source of bait. The fisherman anchors in one spot and then uses the periodic release of chum to catch fish. Bottom trolling uses a cannon ball as its tactic. The cannon ball is drug around the bottom where it stirs up mud and causes noise. This stirs up the fish, provoking them to bite the bait. Trawling is used to catch many fish at once. It involves a net with weights and wheels attached to it. This net rolls along the bottom and scoops up fish. Each type has its good points and bad points, but those are mainly based upon the fisherman's goals. The method you chose to use for deep fishing is up to you.

Deep fishing takes skill and some preparation. Fishing at the bottom comes with its own problems. Fisherman do not want to keep pulling up their line to check bait or move to a different location. Planning the type of deep fishing is also important so you are prepared with the correct equipment. A little planning and patience will make for a good deep fishing experience.

About The Author:

Jay Moncliff is the founder of http://www.fishing-center.info a website specialized on Fishing, resources and articles. This site provides updated information on Fishing. For more info on Fishing visit: http://www.fishing-center.info

Fishing Equipment And Accessories

by: Ron King

The sun is shining. The air is cool and crisp. Yes, this is a great time for fishing.

As you come to the edge of a swiftly moving stream, you see a great fishing adventure beckoning. You set down your tackle box and your rod and reel, slip off your waterproof jacket, and slip on a pair of hip waders over your fisherman's vest.

The abovementioned are just a few of the many fishing accessories that are available to you from stores, catalogs and the internet. Read on to learn more about the accessories you need to make fishing even more fun.

The Fishing Basics

The backbone of your fishing equipment is your rod and reel. For the casual fisherman, the basic rod and reel is all you need. Once you are more experienced, you will better know your tastes and can upgrade accordingly.

Tackle ranges from simple to extremely complicated. Basic tackle includes hooks, sinkers, bobbers, fishing line and needle nosed pliers.

A net is also a good addition. Choose a net size based on the fish size that you are after.

High Tech Tools

Electronics have, to the alarm of purists, invaded the fishing arena. There are devices that help you locate where the fish are located. And there are alarms to alert you when you have a fish on your line. Those poor fish won't have a chance.

Clothing For Anglers

Fishermen's clothing necessities include a fishing hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. A fishing vest with lots of pockets comes in very handy. A good waterproof jacket is essential for keeping you dry when the weather isn't. Waders, in thigh or chest height, help extend your reach by getting out into the water.

Other Useful Accessories You should also consider: a tackle box, forceps, fishing knife, scissors, flashlight, wading shoes, and a fishing belt. If you are fishing from a boat, you will need a flotation vest. Get Advice Before Buying Before choosing expensive accessories, be sure it is right for the job and right for you. There are many factors to consider, so don't hesitate to talk for help. Someone with experience, either a friend or a salesperson, can quickly help you assemble a set of fishing accessories that will maximize your fish catching odds. The right accessories will make your fishing experience more successful, and hence, more enjoyable. Visit Fishing to learn more. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.Visit This article is free for republishing

Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer.

Introduction To Fishing

by: Ron King

The Thrill Of The Catch

If you haven't fished before, you don't know what you're missing. If you did, you would be a fisherperson.

Not only does it bring you closer to nature, there's the thrill of the catch. Imagine standing on the bank of a stream on a beautiful day, your rod bending under the weight of a good catch. This one's a fighter and you take your time, allowing the fish to tire itself out before reeling it to shore. When you finally land it, you realize you've just caught the biggest fish of your life. It's a great feeling and 1 you'll never know until you give fishing a try.

Learning How To Fish

Now that I have your interest, perhaps you realize that you don't have a clue how to go about fishing. Well, that's what I'm here for. If you want to learn to fish, here are 5 easy ways:

* Ask a family member or friend who is an experienced angler to take you along the next time they go fishing -- they will be thrilled to have a new fishing buddy

* Research online -- there are hundreds of websites with instructions on fishing gear, bait, and fishing tips

* Go to your local library and check out how-to fishing books and magazines

* Check your local conservation or wildlife service -- they often hold a fishing day where beginners can learn the basics of fishing.

* If you go on vacation in fishing country (which is darn near anywhere), check with local fishing stores -- they often know local professionals who will teach you how to fish.

When To Go Fishing

Anytime is a good time to fish; you never know what you might catch.

Some species are more active near dawn and dusk when they are feeding, while others will bite any time of the day.

Certain times of the year are best for certain species. Fishing is a pastime you can enjoy all year round.

Getting Your License

Fishing licenses are required in most places, which you can buy at fishing tackle stores or Conservation and Wildlife Centers. The cost varies by location. Licenses for children are usually not required.

If you want to fish on private property, be sure to get permission from the owner. Otherwise it is trespassing.

Pack Up And Head Out

If you've read this far, it may be a sign you're getting interested in fishing. Just follow the above instructions and soon you will be enjoying your favorite new hobby.

Visit Fishing to learn more. Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

The Benefits of Inflatable Fishing Boats

by: Kristy Annely

Inflatable fishing boats are great yacht tenders/camping boats that are light enough to be carried in a backpack. Some 8-foot inflatable fishing boats are good for two and gear, and are large enough to float in moderate whitewater rivers. They can also be used as a large yacht tender. Inflatable fishing boats that are 9-foot long can carry enough gear for a long outdoor journey, and make a great fishing boat.

Most inflatable fishing boats fold small enough to be transported easily in a car trunk. They weigh around 40 lbs without running boards and are lightweight enough to be carried to nearby waterways. Inflatable fishing boats are really versatile. They are equally suitable for fishing, diving, or as a pleasure cruiser. In addition to versatility and despite their large size, inflatable fishing boats are very easy to row.

To make things more enjoyable, fit the Inflatable Fishing Boat with a small 4 hp motor and the craft will go around all day on just a gallon of gas. In places that ban gas engines, one could attach an equivalent electric motor. Whatever one’s purpose, from fishing to Class 3 whitewater running, inflatable fishing boats are up to the job.

Inflatable fishing boats are cheap and durable boats well-suited for weekend fishing or hunting and camping trips. They are compact, and can be carried to the water by a couple of people. Despite this, inflatable fishing boats are spacious and rugged enough to handle almost any conditions.

The prices of inflatable fishing boats vary from $30 to $450 depending on the size and number of running boards. For just a fraction of the price of a conventional boat, inflatable fishing boats give the user all the freedom needed coupled with unrivalled accessibility. Thanks to their lightweight and amazing compactness, one can get to those hard-to-reach favorite fishing spots.

Inflatable Boats Info provides detailed information on pontoon, rigid and fishing inflatable boats, as well as trailers, repairs, used inflatable boats and manufacturers. Inflatable Boats Info is the sister site of River Rafting Web.

Latest Fishing Technology And Fishing Gears

by: Dylan Miles

Fish finder

Imagine you’re sitting out there on your fishing boat, you whip out a cool gadget you just bought from the Internet and after a couple of beeps, the device tells you that there is a school of fish some 3 meters or so away from you. Now, how cool can that be? It’s almost like an ultrasound scan of the sea or the lake that tells you exactly where the fish are.

But of course, this is not news because many different companies have developed their own ultrasound-like fish finding gadgets a long time ago. But Maptech’s new i3 module is the first of its kind. It’s the first ever touch screen, hi-resolution 3D Fishfinger. Yes, you can literally see the kind of fish that’s swimming around under your boat, in super clear images and in real time.

The i3 Touch Screen command on the fishing gadget can help you navigate the floor of the lake or sea with a radar, combine it with satellite communication and a weather report too.

This is an absolutely MUST for those who seriously looking into easy-fishing.

Monofilament fishing lines

There’s absolutely nothing worse than to have a fish on the hook and have the line snap! Well, no more snapping of fishing line with the latest development in monofilament fishing lines. Monofilament fishing lines come in a wide range of colors, sizes, thickness and strength. Although it’s stronger than some of the other more conventional fishing lines, they are cheaper. Monofilament fishing lines comes with special coating that keeps them from snapping easily. The only thing is that they don’t stretch as good as other types of fishing lines but they make up for it with their bulk and strength.

Monofilament fishing lines are also quite transparent over the water and hold knots pretty well.

Fashion is always cool too

Sometimes, cool has nothing to do with technology. It’s got more to do with the brain and ‘creativity’. If your husband, brother, or father is a fishing fanatic, you can always get them fashionable fishing gear with extra pockets to place their scissors and hooks. Perhaps the water-proof raincoat with fluorescent streak for night fishing, perhaps. And how about the water-proof watch? That’ll work perfectly. And how about an X-LOOP flash mirror polarized lens? Sunglasses for baking in the sun and raincoat for fishing in the rain are exceptionally cool gears we cannot ignore.

Let’s take the sunglasses as an example. The sunglasses not only remove the glare and improve the quality of what you see with your naked eye, you see the same scene in deep colors and contrasts. These sunglasses are developed specifically for fishing enthusiasts.