Written by: Derek Botchford and Steve Morrow, Epic Waters Angling
Epic Waters Angling and Orvis have teamed up to create a steelheading miniseries. Using the latest Orvis prototypes, the clips are specifically catered to small-stream tactics. After a busy season of guiding, Derek Botchford and Steve Morrow set out to deliver viewers techniques that are designed to elevate the game of steelhead anglers from the west to the Great Lakes.
There are few things more exciting than discovering new water and the anticipation that goes with stepping in for the first time. But before you go charging in, scan the run and make a game plan. It’s easy to step on a fish, skip a prime lie, or get fixated on a faraway spot when the best water is at your feet.
It’s rare that I fish a run well the first time, and after years of fishing a spot and discovering its secrets, your initial approach will be unrecognizable. That said, if you do a methodical breakdown, you can avoid some simple mistakes.
First visualize the run as a fish would. Where is totally off limits? Where are fish likely to travel into a spot? Is the speed right? Would a fish see my fly there? Then think about your approach. Where can I stand? Obstructions? What are the prime pieces of water? How best to fish those? Going through the scenario in detail from the bank will change the game.
Step in. Proceed with caution. Hold on tight.
See all 15 videos in this series on the
Orvis Fly Fishing Learning Center.
Fly fishing is a 100% educational process. The adventure starts the minute you start to devise your emergency response plan and assembling a strategy for organizing your gear. First consideration is ALWAYS to the thought process, “ How do I respond to something going sideways on the hike in or a sudden fall within the confinements of the stream. I always pack in a dry bag a change of clothing and a first aid kit. The lessons of organization can not be understated. You owe it to yourself as well as your fellow fishing mates. Gear checks are ALWAYS a PRIMARY part of the planning process. For the young fly fisher it broadens his/ her awareness and truly opens one’s eyes to the magnitude of the adventure they are about to embark upon. Nothing could be more important than teaching organizational skills in the GREAT OUT OF DOORS.