Backcountry Fly Fishing Gear Guide

Fly fishing can be an excellent way to spend time at a river without incurring the gear requirements of backpacking. For optimal success, fly fishing requires fewer accessories, such as flies, lines, and waders, than its backpacking equivalent.

In most instances, all you need to get fishing is a medium-sized fly box filled with an assortment of dry flies and nymphs, a landing net, a rod tube, and some polarized sunglasses. We have prepared a detailed guide to explain the backcountry fly fishing gear and why you need them.

Is Fly Fishing an Expensive Hobby?

Fly fishing can be an expensive hobby, but it largely depends on how deeply you're invested and the type of fly fishing gear you choose. High-quality rods, reels, lines, and flies can easily cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, particularly for advanced anglers seeking premium equipment.

For example, top-tier rods can range from $400 to $1,000.
Additionally, waders, boots, and vests add to the cost, as do fly fishing destination trips to renowned fishing spots, which may require travel, lodging, and guide services.
However, beginners can find affordable starter kits and gear for around $150 to $300.
You can also fish in local streams and rivers without needing expensive travel.
Many anglers gradually upgrade their equipment as they become more experienced.

Fly tying, another aspect of the hobby, can also require an investment in materials but offers long-term cost-saving benefits. Ultimately, it's a hobby with flexible spending options, depending on your preferences.

Choose the Right Fly Rod for Backcountry Adventures

Fly rod selection is key when heading into the backcountry, as you cannot always predict which fishing situations await you off-trail. A multipurpose rod that can cast dry flies, nymphs, and streamers is ideal - multiple rods often need to make sense in such places! A 3-5wt fly rod with a floating line should suit most wilderness situations.

An ideal backpack should also provide enough room to store a rod tube. The Gregory Z65 backpack, for example, provides plenty of space to accommodate three to four rods and ensures ease when hiking long distances.

Men's backcountry fly fishing gear guide

Select a Lightweight Fly Reel for Long Hikes

Finding the appropriate fly reel can be challenging for beginner anglers. Lightweight yet reliable reels must be selected to be effective on long hikes and combat fish successfully; otherwise, they risk breaking and leaving lines floating down river banks unmanaged by fly fishing tackle.

Beginners looking for their first reel should find plenty of reliable options on the market to meet budget and trust considerations when fishing for a long backcountry trip. Choosing a reel with an effective drag system suitable for backcountry fishing at an entry-level price point would be best, making it a good starting choice.

Pack Essential Fly Fishing Line for Varied Conditions

Nothing beats spending an afternoon fishing from a river with your rod, casting flies toward the ripples in the water's surface. It's an enjoyable way to connect with nature while supplementing your dehydrated space food dinner.

Finding the appropriate fly line for your backcountry adventures is paramount to making them more enjoyable. Your ideal line will depend on your fishing conditions; for small mountain streams, 3-5 wt lines with floating capabilities would work best.

For an intensive river nymphing adventure, opt for a weight-forward line such as Scientific Anglers Anadro Amplitude Textured line. This line can withstand an indicator and multiple nymphs or split shots on long leader rigs while easily handling smaller dry flies and streamers.

Pick Durable Waders for Remote Fishing Spots

Most fly fishermen keep at least one pair of waders in their garage; these essential gear pieces are essential when venturing out into remote waters or brush. When selecting your pair, ensure it provides ample room for layers while not becoming uncomfortable.

Most brands provide size charts to assist in finding a good fit; our 6'2" tester wore medium-tall in many of the brands we tested, allowing enough extra room for insulation layers. Luxury waders may be costly, but guides require comfort and durability daily - making their purchase worth every penny.

When storing them, don't fold them as this can weaken their materials over time; roll them up instead for easier storage near campfires where sparks could ignite them quickly; this extends their lifespan.

Use a Compact Fly Box for Easy Access

Your fly box is key to easily accessing the flies you need when fishing on the water. From large briefcase models suitable for boats to wallet-size options that fit inside your smartphone wallet, your fly box has you covered.

Search for a box with strong foam for holding flies. Ideally, the foam should be thick enough to withstand hooks without becoming so tough that retrieving one becomes impossible. Furthermore, the foam should seal shut so corrosive water doesn't penetrate it and eventually wear down your hooks.

Sort your flies according to profile rather than color for easier searching and selection once you know which works in your fishery. Magnetic clasps are especially easy to open in cold conditions, while plastic tabs may prove more challenging.

Carry a Waterproof Backpack for Gear Protection

A quality pack can make or break a multi-day trek in the backcountry. The ideal models will provide maximum comfort, sufficient pockets to store essential items and efficient gear management capabilities.

Find a 40-55 liter bag capacity (2,450-3,350 cubic inches). Look for features like fit and durability and supply chain certifications such as Bluesign or Fair Trade that provide insight into labor practices and environmental standards. Additionally, ensure the bag can hold your sleeping bag, tent, food supplies, and additional layers if possible.

Conclusion

Backcountry fly fishing is an adventurous and rewarding way to connect with nature, offering both challenge and serenity. As you gain experience, upgrading your gear will enhance your performance and overall enjoyment. Whether casting in a remote mountain stream or a peaceful riverside, the right equipment makes all the difference for a successful backcountry fly fishing experience.

Book Your Fly Fishing Trip With Frontier Anglers TN

Smallmouth fly fishing presents an exhilarating challenge for anglers seeking action-packed adventures on the water. To maximize your success, it's crucial to consider equipment, environmental factors, and seasonal fish patterns.

If you are looking for the best smallmouth bass fishing experience in TN, look no further than Frontier Anglers, your trusted guide for fly fishing trips. We provide fishing guides on popular rivers in Tennessee, including the Holston River, French Broad River, Clinch River, Little River, Pigeon River, and Caney Fork River. Contact Us today!