There’s nothing better than a day on the water—just me, my fly rod, and (hopefully) a few trout willing to play along. It takes some preparation to get into that rhythm of casting after casting, especially if it’s your first time. learning how to fly fish. Over the years, I’ve discovered that having the right equipment makes a big difference in the way the fishing goes, and how much I enjoy myself. have. Sunburned after returning home forgetting my SPFOr dragging your feet out of a river with blistered soles wearing the wrong bootsIt’s just as bad to leave a skunked.
The learning of a sport new can be a challenge.E It can be intimidating to try to find the right gear for getting outside. So I’m going to share the essentials that you will need in order to cast a line confidently. ultralight waders. fly rod and reel kit. comfortable shoes for the water. My gear is a combination of items I’ve had for years as well as a few more recent finds that have earned permanent places in my kit. This is a good place to begin if you are building your own river kit. You can find gear as low as $8 at REI, Amazon and Orvis.
Patagonia Stealth Switch Fishing Bag 9L
Patagonia
Fly fishing requires a lot more gear than other hobbies. You need to carry a lot with you all the time. Spools of tippet, sunscreen, flies, sunglasses, chapstick, snacks—you need a comfortable place to put it all that won’t get in the way or won’t weigh you down. Enter this pack from PatagoniaIt can be used as a sling or a lumbar bag, depending on the user’s preference.
The bag is surprisingly large for its 9-liter capacity. It’s a bag I carry on my hip all day long. It fits everything and then some. There are plenty of magnets to attach my extra fly line spools. I also use the lash points for my water bottle. Trust me—there are a lot of packs out there. This is a pack you will actually want to bring with you.
Free Fly Women’s Breeze Pant
Free Fly
I am very particular about the pants I choose to wear under my waders. I want something that will stay in place and I don’t want to sweat more than necessary. This is why I always choose my Breeze Drift Pants Free Fly. The legs are tapered and slightly tapered, so they stay down under waders. They also look cute when worn on their own. I’ve worn these while hiking, paddling or on my post-fishing run to Dairy Queen. They feel great.
Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie
Cotopaxi
You can protect yourself by investing in UPF shirts and hoodies. breathable hoodie by Cotopaxi. It’s airy and breathable enough to keep you cool, even in the hottest sun. You won’t be bothered if it gets wet, as the fabric is moisture-wicking and quick-drying. Thumbholes and the hood provide additional shade.
Travel + Leisure
Orvis Women’s Ultralight Waders
Orvis
If you want to stay cool and dry in the summer without breaking the bank, the Ultralight Waders by Orvis. They are lightweight and yet tough enough to tackle brush and rocky banks.
Fit is tailored to a woman’s body, so there’s no sagging or strange bunching of the knees. I love that the shoulder straps are adjustable and can also be used as a belt when worn at waist height on warm days. They are worth every penny, especially with the chest pocket and built-in gravel guards.
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Orvis Women’s Ultralight Water Boots
Orvis
These waders are also available in matching colors. Orvis boots The boots are lightweight and supportive, which is unusual for wading boot. They don’t get soggy because the synthetic material dries quickly, and their Vibram soles grip well on slick mud and wet rocks. Fly fishing requires a lot standing and walking, so these boots are comfortable all day, even after spending 12+ hours on your feet.
Teva Women’s Hydratrek Water Sandal
REI
These sandals are perfect for when it’s just too hot to wear full waders, but I still want my feet to be able get wet. These sandals are a great alternative to full waders when it’s too hot for them. Teva Hydratrek sandals are my go-to for wet wading—they’re sturdy, supportive, and grippy enough to handle whatever is underneath me. Unlike some water sandals They are incredibly durable and give you an incredible grip even when hiking to a remote location. The slick surface is easy to clean, and they dry quickly. This is important when you are bouncing from trail to stream.
Redington Fly Fishing Fly Rod Reel Combo kit
Amazon
Your rod and reel is essential to fishing. You can’t go fishing without your rod and reel. all-in-one kit It is perfect for novices and experienced anglers alike who want an easy-to-use setup. Redington’s 5-weight 9-foot rod is flexible enough to handle most freshwater situations. The reel comes pre-spooled so that you can cast straight out of the box. It’s easy to transport and is durable, so I keep it in my car for spontaneous fishing trips.
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Leatherman Skeletool Multi-tool Cx
Amazon
A multi-tool might not The following is a list of the most recent articles. essential… until you need it. It’s a lifesaver when I need to tighten a screw on my reel, snip line or un-snag an errant fly from my sun jacket. The Skeletool Cx The streamlined design is still packed with features, including pliers, wire-cutters, a blade, and even an adjustable bit driver. It’s light enough to clip to my belt loop but durable enough to endure years of use. Plus, I get tons of compliments on the colors and they stand out in my pack so that it’s easy to access.
Yeti Rambler Water Bottle, 26 oz.
Amazon
The bottle has kept my water cool even after several hours of direct sunlight. The stainless steel is virtually unbreakable, and it has a narrow mouth that makes it easy to use on the move. I can hook it to my fishing pack or shove it in the water bottle holder, and it doesn’t leak—even when it inevitably falls out or rolls down a riverbank (get a brightly colored one you can easily spot in case that happens!). You only have to buy it once.
Zooron UPF50+ Bucket Hat
Amazon
I never fish without my hat and I love it. this $8 find from Amazon. It is lightweight, breathable and provides just enough shade for my neck and face to avoid burning. It’s foldable so it takes up less space and, if you blow it into the river, it will dry quickly. This is a great, affordable way to stay cool.
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Tula Protect Go SPF50 Sunscreen Stick
Ulta
SPF is important for any outdoor activity. Fly lines and rods do not have the same SPF. Love Sunscreen (especially chemical sunscreens, as the chemicals can wear away the material). I carry a stick with me in my bag. apply all over my faceWhile keeping my hand rubbing to a minimum.
Lately I’ve loved Tula’s Protect + Go Sunscreen StickIt comes with an applicator that is easy to use and easy to locate (it’s a bright yellow color, so I never lose it in my bag). Bonus points for the healthier ingredients that my skin loves in the sun.
Coola Organic Liplux SPF 30 Lip Balm
Amazon
On the river, I also reapply lip balm. The sunburned lips is the The best way to describe this isThis balm has saved me many times. It is packed with organic ingredients, and the texture is smooth and buttery.
Suncloud Sentry Polarized Sunglasses
REI
You’ll be surprised at what anglers will say when asked about their favorite fishing gear. polarized sunglasses. It is important to wear quality eyewear when you are on the water. They not only protect your eyes, but also reduce glare so you can see better. Suncloud sunglasses are affordable and perform well beyond their price. If you are new to fishing, and don’t have the budget to buy a $200 pair of sunglasses, these are a good choice.
Chums Orbiter Eyewear Retainer
Amazon
I’ve lost too many shades overboard for me to fish again without a retainer. This particular pair of glasses. floating strap from ChumsThe foam is bright and floaty, making it easy to spot before they drift away. It is easy to spot the foam because it is bright and floaty.
REI Cooperative Multi Towel Mini
REI
This is my go-to towel for all things: drying hands after handling fish or wiping down wet equipment, or blotting away sweat from my face. It is small, but it packs a punch. The microfiber absorbs more than expected. It’s small but mighty, and the microfiber material absorbs more than you expect. It’s an inexpensive addition to any outdoor adventure.
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