Going fly fishing with a guide? Here are 4 things you really need to know

#3  LEAVE YOUR EGO ON SHORE

Here’s a story I hear over and over from fly guides: A client hires them at significant expense, then refuses to follow their advice, resists coaching and insists they know better about flies, tactics, casting and fishing spots. The predicable result is a frustrating, even unpleasant, day for both parties. Don’t be that guy. (And yes, guides tell me those obstinate clients are almost always men.) You may hold 37 IGFA records, but presumably there’s a reason you hired a guide.

Also, don’t be offended if the guide insists on supplying your flies and leaders, and even tying your knots. Guides fish with anglers of many skill levels, and often have a good reason for being mistrustful of their clients’ terminal tackle. They also understand that little things such as good knots and sharp hooks can make the difference between heartbreak and landing the lunker of a lifetime. It’s all in the interest of giving you the best shot at catching fish.

#4  ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE

The other crucial aspect of a successful partnership is two-way communication. While you should heed the expert’s advice, it’s also fine—even essential—to ask for your needs to be accommodated. If you want to exclusively fish dry flies, even though it might reduce your chance of success, say so. Similarly, if throwing a weighted nymph is starting to hurt your shoulder or you’d prefer to get out of the boat and wade for a while, tell the guide. You are the client, after all, so you should have the kind of fishing experience you want. Just be cordial about it.

Finally, along with communication and cooperation, don’t forget to throw in a little relaxation. For most of us, fly fishing with a guide is a rare treat, making it easy to get laser-focused on results or to put pressure on yourself to fish perfectly. When you do that, however, you can lose sight of the big picture: you’re in a beautiful spot, tossing flies at interesting fish with the tutelage of an expert angler. That makes it an A-plus day, no matter what. So, if you start to get tense or frustrated, remember to take a breath and appreciate your surroundings—then go stick that wall-hanger.

For more tips on honing your fly-fishing skills, go to www.outdoorcanada.ca/thesmallstuff.