SUMMER SPORT
Too hot for trout fishing? Take on a new fly-fishing challenge instead
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Even local ponds can offer fun fishing#3 STAY CLOSE
In our water-blessed nation, many of us regularly pass by creeks and ponds close to home while dreaming of more exotic fishing destinations. But it’s a safe bet you’ll find fish in at least some of those waters, most likely fly-friendly species such as bass, sunfish, perch and who knows what. Long summer nights are the perfect time to spend a few hours exploring such spots. You just might discover an overlooked—and underfished—gem.
#4 GET DEEP
Fishing stillwater during summer is the perfect opportunity to finally try the most underused tool in Canadian fly fishing—sinking line. In rivers, the current helps sink flies, but on lakes, even weighted patterns only get down a couple of feet. Unless you’ve got the patience to let your fly sink for about five minutes after every cast, you need different gear.
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If you’re reluctant to buy an entirely new line, you can opt for a sinking leader, such as Rio Products’ VersiLeader or an Airflo Polyleader (above), for about $15. These loop on to a floating line, turning it into a decent approximation of a sinking one. Sinking gear is awkward to cast at first, but hang in there. Quicky getting your fly down four, six or eight feet opens up a new world.
#5 STAY FLY
When fishing with friends who only use conventional gear, it can seem natural, even polite, to leave your fly rod at home. That’s especially the case in boats, where fly anglers may need extra room or special positioning. But if your companions are cool with it, stick with the fly rod. You probably won’t catch as many fish as them, but you never know. Any gamefish that will hit a lure, will hit a fly. If you’re casting or trolling in shallow or mid-depth water, and you’ve got the right tools (such as that sinking line), you’re in the game. And if you happen upon a mayfly hatch, the spin guys will be begging you for flies.