A (far from) complete guide to learning fly fishing

OK, OK. It's a bit like the tagline on the classic game Othello says: "A minute to learn, a lifetime to master."

This is your one-stop shop for dipping your toes into the art of angling.

Don't feel like you're too far behind: The rest of us are still far from mastery. So give these a read and catch up.

Getting started

• What is fly fishing?:
  Understanding the basics and fundamentals
• Five reasons to start fly fishing:
  Why you'll love this sport
• Essential gear for beginners:
  What you need to get start, and what you don't
• How to not look like an idiot when you're learning to fly fish:
  Everyone's self-conscious when they start
• Fly fishing Pillar: Mindset:
  Mental approach that makes all the difference

Fundamental skills

• Understanding fish environments:
  Where and how to find fish
• Understanding your fly rod and all its parts:
  Rod, line, leader, and tippet basics
• Casting, presentation, and technique:
  Master the core skills in the Technique Pillar

Advanced topics

• Scouting new waters:
  Finding productive fishing spots
• Stalking trout:
  Close-range fishing with dapping techniques
• Specialized swinging:
  Advanced wet fly methods

Popular topics

• Technique:
  Different methods that catch fish
• Gear reviews
  Honest evaluations of what gear you need
• Conservation:
  Protecting our waters for the next generation
• Mindset:
  The mental game of fly fishing
• Learning Resources:
  Educational content and guides, presented in Pillar form

New to fly fishing? Start with our What is fly fishing? guide, then move to Essential gear for beginners to understand what you need.

Ready to improve your technique? Check out our technique guides and casting fundamentals.

The learning library is constantly growing. Bookmark this page and check back regularly for new guides and techniques.