Flyfishing FAQs (frequently-asked questions)

This is where qualified flyfishing instructors and fisheries scientists answer questions sent in by visitors to our web site.

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We do our best to answer all email requests for help... and if we don't know the answer we really do admit it. Before emailing us with your question, however, please check that it is not one already answered below or on our Jargon Buster page...

Questions and Answers... Flyfishing		More details...
Q:	*Where should I go for my first flyfishing outing - a river, a reservoir or a small put-and-take trout fishery?*
A:	There's a lot to be said for starting at a small put-and-take fishery. you will not need to cast a long way, and so you can concentrate on casting accurately and without making a splash. The fish are usually a bit easier to catch, too (but rarely too easy!), and so you can get away with the occasional splashy cast. And finally, most fishery owners are only too pleased to give the occasional bit of advice and help to a newcomer... as are other anglers who you are likely to meet there. If you do go to a river or a large reservoir, try to avoid very windy days. It's also advisable to go with someone who knows the venue fairly well, or you are likely to spend most of your time fishing where there is nothing at all to catch. Pat O'Reilly
Q:	Can you recommend a basic general purpose trout fishing outfit that would allow me to fish on small rivers, trout pools and perhaps occasionally from a boat on a reservoir when the weather is not too rough?
A:	Most general purpose tools are a compromise, and that applies to fishing tackle. However, a 9-ft rod with a moderately fast action and rated for a 6-weight line would be capable of coping with the range of situations you describe. Beware of very cheap 'Beginners' Outfits' - with one of those you will remain forever a beginner... the rods, reels and flyfishing lines in most cut-price bargain kits are just about useless. Pat O'Reilly	Need it in plain English? Visit our Jargon-buster page Our Tackle Advice section has more details...
Q:	The toilet facilities for women are dreadful or, in many venues, non-existent. Lots of other issues put me off, but I really would like to get started in flyfishing. What's happening to make angling more accessible for women and girls?
A:	You are right: it's not so easy for us women. Toilet facilities are only one of the problems in a sport largely dominated by men. But take heart; I decided to take up fishing and I haven't let anything or anyone stop me. But there's a lot more that could and should be done, which is why I have volunteered to serve on the JAGB Working Group. Sue Parker	Our Women in Angling page has more details...

Questions and Answers... Managing fisheries		More details...
Q:	*I have a small stretch of river running through my own land. Can I put fish into it?*
A:	It may be permissible, but you need to discuss the idea with the Environment Agency Fisheries officer for your area. You would need to apply to the Agency for a Section 30 stocking consent. However, if your stream is not polluted, it should have wild fish in it, and so a better plan would probably be to improve its habitat for fish at every stage in their life cycle (from eggs to fry to juveniles and finally adults) so that they have the variety of food and shelter they need. Again, before doing and in-stream work you need consent from the Environment Agency. Nick Giles	Environment Agency fisheries web site...
Q:	*My stream is an SSSI. Do I have to consult anyone else apart from the Environment Agency before I do work on the river banks or the bed of the stream?*
A:	You will also need to discuss your plans with the appropriate conservation agency - the Countryside Council for Wales if you live here in the principality, or Natural England if you are in England. If you contact the Environment Agency, they will ensure that the appropriate conservation agency is also consulted. (Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own conservation agencies.) Nick Giles	CCW Web site... English Nature web site...

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First Nature
Bwlchgwyn, Rhydlewis, Llandysul SA44 5RE
Telephone: 01239 851952
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