Zen & the Magical Art of Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is an art form that not everyone can master. It takes skill, patience, determination, and knowledge of the right bait and flies to use. Fly fishing can be very meditative, almost Zen − you get a sense of satisfaction with the perfect cast. As you cast a fly line back and forth, immersed in your environment and focused on the present, you feel euphoric. Here we explore the art of fly fishing in more depth.

The magical art of fly tying and fishing

When opting for a week on the open Indian Ocean, the fly fishing bug will bite and it can turn into your best experience ever. Especially, if cruising through Seychelles’ Outer Islands, which is sure to be the world’s best fly-fishing destination. Here are a few tips that you may not have considered. These tips are to help you truly enjoy the sport as much as we do – that serenity, relaxation, and peace you experience when casting your line.

The magical art of fly fishing and fly-fishing tips

Fly fishing is a mesmerizing activity; and globally, people have become hooked on this sport. What is more, fly fishing is about an artificial insect or fly to offer the fish you want to target, and to trick them. Here are some key contemplations when you are venturing out to any of the fly fishing destinations in the Seychelles.

Tip 1 – Wear a good pair of polarised sunglasses

Anglers, even blue water fishermen, should have a good pair of polarised glasses. These sunglasses will help you in the hot sun and help you spot pools of fish in the water. Moreover, the main benefit of a good pair of polarized glasses is that they will reduce the harsh light, especially the glare that bounces off the water's surface. Polarized glasses help you to spot the fish better.

Tip 2 – Take your time and enjoy the moment

Fly fishing offers you many health benefits, such as breathing fresh air, which can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Therefore, when you are out, take your time when you are fly fishing. Remember, you’re on vacation! Besides taking things a tad slower, fish can sense movement, so moving slowly and stealthily will make fish less likely to scatter.

Tip 3 – Wear the right clothing

Your clothing gear should not just be comfortable; it should also be practical. You should make sure that your clothing camouflages you in the environment: you should not be seen as an obvious predator! Also, wearing a neck gaiter offers your neck a shield when you are out fishing; a gaiter will also shield your face and ears from the sun and the wind. To protect yourself from the sun, wear a good hat.

Tip 4 – Keep an eye on your fly!

A critically vital tip is always to watch your fly – every time you cast, take a look at your fly to make sure that your tackle isn’t damaged. The wings of the fly should be in place. The fly should float freely on the water, not drag behind. The more natural the movement, the better your chances of landing that catch.

Tip 5 – Don’t over drift

A rule to go by is not to over-drift – keep your line short in order to avoid line-management problems. Ideally, you would want short but effective drifts with your fly. In many cases, the closer you get, the more the accuracy of the cast and the more your control over the drift will improve.

Tip 6 – Lubricate your knot

It is necessary to lubricate your knots well. You should lubricate your knot before tightening it, and use nippers to trim the excess material. Also, remember that knots that don’t seat correctly are weak. This is a step easily overlooked. However, remember to lubricate the knot well before you pull it tight.

Tip 7 – Focus on your rod action

Now that you have the basics down, decide which rod action works best for you:

Fast action

You need to have perfect timing and technique if you cast quickly. This action can bring in a fish faster and is great if used on a windy day. However, this rapid action can be difficult for beginners.

Benefits: Make longer casts, land larger fish, cast in windy conditions, and cast quickly.

Moderate-fast action

This action is a great skill to master. You can speed up the action based on the situation; versatility must be allowed for.

Benefits: This action will suit most anglers looking for the performance benefits of a faster action, while still wanting the versatility and feel of a deeper flexing rod.

Moderate Action

This action also allows for versatility and flexibility in the situation.

Benefits: Improved line control and accuracy over fast action. Suited to the widest range of fishing conditions – great, versatile rod choice for beginners.

Slow Action

Choose this action if you need to make an accurate and gentle short cast. This is typically a good cast action for beginners in order to have control as they increase in accuracy.

Benefits: Great for beginners, short casts, small streams, and rivers. Not ideal for windy conditions.