Fly anglers don’t actually need many accessories. Here’s the gear that matters

There’s a clichéd image of the fly angler as foppish figure, dressed to the nines in expensive gear, and festooned with dangling trinkets. It’s embarrassing. It also gives the impression you need all that stuff to go fishing. You really don’t. In the vast constellation of fly-fishing accessories, very few items are actually essential. If you’re just getting started, or if you’d like to fish a little leaner, here’s my take on what you actually need, what you don’t and why.

THE KEEPERS

Beyond a rod, reel, line, some leaders (or leader material) and a few flies, these are near-essential items to help you fish more effectively and safely. I always have this stuff, even if I’m only on the water for an hour.

POLARIZED SUNGLASSES As well as letting you spot fish and structure, they’re essential for protecting your eyes from errant hooks.

FLY BOX If have more than a couple of flies, you need to keep them somewhere, though it doesn’t have to be fancy.

NIPPERS/SCISSORS Save your teeth, and trim knots with a tool. Since nippers are easy to drop, keeping them on a lanyard is also wise.

HEMOSTAT/PLIERS Plan for success, and make sure you have a way to unhook your fish. For trout and bass, I like hemostats; for bigger or toothier game, I use lightweight needle-nose-style fishing pliers.

HOOK SHARPENER Yes, this is essential. Dull hooks are a leading cause of missed strikes and lost fish. If you haven’t sharpened your hook after three hours, it needs a touch up.