Fishing is both an extremely fun activity and a way that many people make a living. But not all kinds of fishing are the same—there are many different styles out there. Still, when most people think of fishing, they imagine a rod and line on the water. While there are several types of rod fishing, one of the most popular is fly fishing. But where does that term come from, and what does it mean?
Why Is it “Fly”
To put it simply, the “fly” is the part at the end of the fishing line that goes in the water. It’s a small lure that can float or sink in the water and is what separates fly fishing from regular hook-and-line fishing. Fishers spend years learning and perfecting techniques to utilize the fly as best as possible.
The Importance of Presentation
Presentation is one of the major skills a fly fisher needs to master to become proficient at the craft. The fly at the end of a line isn’t just for show. Flies look like bait to the fish in the water, which is why they come up and bite it. Presentation involves moving the rod and fly to make it seem alive and tempting to fish.
Where It Started
Although fly fishing may seem odd, it has a history spanning millennia, with the first records dating back to 2nd century Rome. By creating small items that resemble prey and tying them to a line, fishermen could increase their catch rates, helping them feed their families and store more for sale or future consumption.
Improvements Over the Years
These first fishing tools didn’t have all the same technologies we use nowadays. Our fly reels made in the USA and professional flies feature an assortment of different designs. Throughout the many years since the first fly reels were created, new techniques and better rods have been developed, making fishing much more efficient. You can even buy specific flies to bait different fish to increase your odds.
This is why fly fishing is popular and why people call it fly fishing. Next time you see it in a movie or want to try it for yourself, you know what you’re looking at and the long history of the sport.
