Since the OB knows all…

I'm looking to get my son (17)started with the things he would need to get into fly fishing. He is already primarily a bass angler here in Colorado, but really wants to get into fly fishing.

I have access to a Cabela but I know that you guys won't steer me wrong.

Open to anything from waders to flies and in between.

The Cabela's Synch Fly Outfit Combo is a really good starter option and at good value for the price. All though it was several previous versions of this line - It was my first rod and reel. I still think it casts really well, even better than some of my more expensive rods. The Orvis Clearwater line would be worth looking as well.

https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/cabelas-synch-enhanced-fly-outfit

As for waders - I've owned cheap ones and expensive ones. They are eventually leak.

Thriller said:

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Since the OB knows all…

I'm looking to get my son (17)started with the things he would need to get into fly fishing. He is already primarily a bass angler here in Colorado, but really wants to get into fly fishing.

I have access to a Cabela but I know that you guys won't steer me wrong.

Open to anything from waders to flies and in between.

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Gift cert for a dual casting session and guided trip. Bonus points if you join him for fly fishing/casting. The folks who do fly fishing for a living will be happy to help make suggestions on a fly outfit, but they will all catch fish.

A guide in your area more often than not will have some loaner waders for new anglers, and that would also be a good way for him to get a feel for gear before buying some expensive waders he may not like. Waders go from reasonable to expensive (depending on your definition of expensive) fast and it might be overkill to hook him up with the latest Simms or Skwala waders.

Any midrange 5wt or 6wt from Reddington, TFO or Orvis Encounter are fine combos to start with. Usually the reels will come spooled with fly line/backing that will be sufficient for beginners.

Honestly if he gets deep into fly fishing the first rod and reel you gift him won't be the last. And that's the cool thing about fly fishing gear: there will always be an unending source of gear and stuff for gifts, i.e. nets, waders, tools, fly tying vises, dry bags, wading boots, apparel, etc etc etc.

In summary, he will have a memory of dad fishing with him that will last longer than any rod or accessory you will buy him.

Spot on, EOT!!!

Al Bula said:

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Thriller said:

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Since the OB knows all…

I'm looking to get my son (17)started with the things he would need to get into fly fishing. He is already primarily a bass angler here in Colorado, but really wants to get into fly fishing.

I have access to a Cabela but I know that you guys won't steer me wrong.

Open to anything from waders to flies and in between.

---

Gift cert for a dual casting session and guided trip. Bonus points if you join him for fly fishing/casting. The folks who do fly fishing for a living will be happy to help make suggestions on a fly outfit, but they will all catch fish.

A guide in your area more often than not will have some loaner waders for new anglers, and that would also be a good way for him to get a feel for gear before buying some expensive waders he may not like. Waders go from reasonable to expensive (depending on your definition of expensive) fast and it might be overkill to hook him up with the latest Simms or Skwala waders.

Any midrange 5wt or 6wt from Reddington, TFO or Orvis Encounter are fine combos to start with. Usually the reels will come spooled with fly line/backing that will be sufficient for beginners.

Honestly if he gets deep into fly fishing the first rod and reel you gift him won't be the last. And that's the cool thing about fly fishing gear: there will always be an unending source of gear and stuff for gifts, i.e. nets, waders, tools, fly tying vises, dry bags, wading boots, apparel, etc etc etc.

In summary, he will have a memory of dad fishing with him that will last longer than any rod or accessory you will buy him.

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This is a really good idea. I will start looking around at options.

I live on the western slope and would be happy to teach him or take him to where fish are and give advice.

Al Bula said:

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Thriller said:

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Since the OB knows all…

I'm looking to get my son (17)started with the things he would need to get into fly fishing. He is already primarily a bass angler here in Colorado, but really wants to get into fly fishing.

I have access to a Cabela but I know that you guys won't steer me wrong.

Open to anything from waders to flies and in between.

---

Gift cert for a dual casting session and guided trip. Bonus points if you join him for fly fishing/casting. The folks who do fly fishing for a living will be happy to help make suggestions on a fly outfit, but they will all catch fish.

A guide in your area more often than not will have some loaner waders for new anglers, and that would also be a good way for him to get a feel for gear before buying some expensive waders he may not like. Waders go from reasonable to expensive (depending on your definition of expensive) fast and it might be overkill to hook him up with the latest Simms or Skwala waders.

Any midrange 5wt or 6wt from Reddington, TFO or Orvis Encounter are fine combos to start with. Usually the reels will come spooled with fly line/backing that will be sufficient for beginners.

Honestly if he gets deep into fly fishing the first rod and reel you gift him won't be the last. And that's the cool thing about fly fishing gear: there will always be an unending source of gear and stuff for gifts, i.e. nets, waders, tools, fly tying vises, dry bags, wading boots, apparel, etc etc etc.

In summary, he will have a memory of dad fishing with him that will last longer than any rod or accessory you will buy him.

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I am in a similar situation as OP, our son, c/o25, has gotten in to fly fishing thanks to an ex-girlfriend's dad. He is asking for waders as well as a vest.

I will pass on the advice on the waders so he can figure out what he likes best. But is there anything specific in a vest that would make one better than the other?

I agree with Al Bula.
Redington combos are very good rod and reels with great Rio-brand line. Priced range depending on how much you want to invest, but they will all catch fish.

DoitBest,
I do not prefer a "vest", but instead prefer a sling pack. I slide it around to my back when not in use, and have it right in front when re-rigging or looking for tippet, etc. Waist packs are also a good option. There is nothing wrong with the vests, but in Texas they can get hot on your back.

I like the waterproof packs for keeping everything more secure. The fishing equipment can handle getting wet, but is frustrating to have a puddle of water in the back when you are wading deep and the pack is underwater for a while. However, for starting out the waterproof upgrade is not necessary.

Fishpond and Simms are the big name-brands, and are awesome (but expensive). Amazon has good knock-offs which work fine as you are starting out and learning...and maybe last you for years without the need to upgrade to Fishpond.

A mid-length handled net (with silicone net basket) can double as a wading stick. Shorter handles are good for landing fish, but only that.

Thanks, will check them out

Am I on the right track? He told me tonight he used a sling pack this summer, but that pack was made for day hikes, not fishing. This one looks good to me

Not to add more complication there are also waist packs with a shoulder strap.....

https://www.amazon.com/FishPond-Switchback-Pro-Wading-System/dp/B08N83M9MQ

They make a waterproof version as well but it's much more expensive

Orvis Encounter is a great newbie set up. It will last him a good while before he figures out what he likes and doesn't like in a fly rod. I'd say start there and then get him a gift card to a fly shop to get some flies and/or accessories.

It's a good pack. That's what I use.

Now y'all just making it hard...
Here's where we started..

Then his Godfather & him reeled this in behind the house..

And this past summer he sent this Pic, I think he's liking the fly fishing game, so keep the suggestions coming...

I switch between chest rigs and sling packs. They both have their place. The sling pack you posted is a good one, I run the similar Orvis one.

I keep a few of these waders for when guests/clients fish with me. They hold up well and are comfy.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1KRZ6FQ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

Currently looking to get into fly fishing after a trip to Colorado. I've been doing a lot of research and here is what I'm looking at:

Fishpond Summit Sling pack - fishpond is known for the drop down compartments that serve as a tray when changing your fly, pretty damn neat.

Orvis Encounter vs Clearwater: the Encounter is $200 with a 5 yr warranty, Clearwater is $419 with a 25 yr warranty. Most of the reviews I have read say both are good options, but most recommend going with the clearwater because rod tip breaking is common when learning the sport and the extra warranty helps. There have also been several reviews that say they started with the Encounter, only to purchase the Clearwater within 2 years for the improved feel of the rod. If you are going with Orvis, I would almost recommend the Encounter because he is still young and how much it will get used as he gets older is yet to be seen.

Selecting a weight is dependent on what species he will be targeting. 5wt is a good option for trout, where as a heavier 6, 7, or 8 wt would be better for bass / all purpose.

I love my Simms waders and boots, but they are on the pricey side.

I also recommend a casting session as it is a totally different feel than a regular rod and reel, and learning from an instructor would limit equipment breaking / catching a fly in the neck.

PM sent for waders & boots.

I use a fanny pack with a cup holder.

I've been either an Orvis Proguide or an Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide since 1996; the Encounter is OK but Clearwater is the better choice.


What ever rod choice, buy a good weight forward fly line. The fly line is almost equal in importance to the fly rod, especially when learning to cast.

Such great advice in this thread!

+1 on Orvis Encounter. I'm really interested in getting a 3WT TFO
+1 on Fishpond submersible hip pack

I have a 5 weight rod that has caught fingerlength brook trout up to a 4lb bass and carp here in Texas. The bigger bass flies are a bit of a challenge to cast, but honestly the woolly bugger is undefeated.

Milwaukees Best Light said:

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I use a fanny pack with a cup holder.

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Seems like username checks out...nice...

I'm hopping on this thread!

I'm taking my second fly-fishing trip to Wyoming next June for Cutthroat Trout. I rented equipment last time and the outfitter no longer messes with equipment rental.

Purchased:
Orvis Clearwater 5wt w/ case
flies

Still need:
waders
sling pack
all the "gear" - nippers, strike indicators, line, etc.
net
and probably a lot more stuff I'm not even considering

Open to suggestions on all of them. I live in Texas and won't be using this stuff regularly, however I'd prefer to buy at least decent quality stuff OR buy from a company that will at least stand behind their product.
Are any of the "ready to go / rigged up" gear packs worth buying? I believe Orvis has some.

Does your rod have a reel and fly line?

I use Simms waders but there's a newer company that makes good waders, Skwala.

Sage fly rods, simms sling bag. Rio fly lines, leaders and tippit.

Montana fly shops that often have good end of season sales, Madison River Fishing Company and East Rosebud Fly Shop.

Living in Texas should not restrict your fly fishing. You do not need to be in CO, MT, NM, or AR to use a fly rod.

Your 5wt is great for sand bass / white bass, bream/bluegill, and stocked trout. Even large bass if you use a little finesse.

6wt, 7wt, 8wt can be used to catch any freshwater bass, striper, carp, gar, buffalo, bluegill, catfish in the state.

Go to local fly shops and/or join a local fly fishing group to learn more about opportunities in your area.

Baitcaster said:

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Living in Texas should not restrict your fly fishing. You do not need to be in CO, MT, NM, or AR to use a fly rod.

Your 5wt is great for sand bass / white bass, bream/bluegill, and stocked trout. Even large bass if you use a little finesse.

6wt, 7wt, 8wt can be used to catch any freshwater bass, striper, carp, gar, buffalo, bluegill, catfish in the state.

Go to local fly shops and/or join a local fly fishing group to learn more about opportunities in your area.

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I agree to some extent. But there is nothing better than catching wild trout and unfortunately we don't have that here. It is why I rarely fly fish in Texas.

Agreed. That is why I love living where I do. Miles upon miles of fishing grounds and dozens of high alpine lakes that are easily accessible for anyone semi-healthy.

docb said:

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Baitcaster said:

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Living in Texas should not restrict your fly fishing. You do not need to be in CO, MT, NM, or AR to use a fly rod.

Your 5wt is great for sand bass / white bass, bream/bluegill, and stocked trout. Even large bass if you use a little finesse.

6wt, 7wt, 8wt can be used to catch any freshwater bass, striper, carp, gar, buffalo, bluegill, catfish in the state.

Go to local fly shops and/or join a local fly fishing group to learn more about opportunities in your area.

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I agree to some extent. But there is nothing better than catching wild trout and unfortunately we don't have that here. It is why I rarely fly fish in Texas.

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I beg to differ sir.

IMHO, the best thing about trout is that they don't live in ugly places. But, I would 100% chose sight-casting to reds on the flat over trout. And sight-casting to tarpon over that.

As a one-time poster, @BKClark, says, "fly fishing for tarpon is the most fun you can have with your clothes on."

Personally, I say the first time you jump a tarpon on the fly is like the first time you have sex. You know it's going to be awesome but nothing can prepare you for how awesome it really is. It's over way too quickly. When you're done your heart is racing and you're probably a little weak in the knees. And all you know is that you want to do it over and over again.

To each their own. I have caught reds on the fly and no doubt it is fun. But honestly I don't think redfish are very smart fish. I'd rather just use a baitcaster and popping rod on the coast and chase speckled trout.

DuckDown2013 said:

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I'm hopping on this thread!

I'm taking my second fly-fishing trip to Wyoming next June for Cutthroat Trout. I rented equipment last time and the outfitter no longer messes with equipment rental.

Purchased:
Orvis Clearwater 5wt w/ case
flies

Still need:
waders
sling pack
all the "gear" - nippers, strike indicators, line, etc.
net
and probably a lot more stuff I'm not even considering

Open to suggestions on all of them. I live in Texas and won't be using this stuff regularly, however I'd prefer to buy at least decent quality stuff OR buy from a company that will at least stand behind their product.
Are any of the "ready to go / rigged up" gear packs worth buying? I believe Orvis has some.

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I hate waders. I'll use them for winter trips, but in any kind of warm weather I just wet wade. If you're going to be standing in a cold lake all day that's one thing, but if I'm in and out of the water fishing creeks or rivers? Neoprene socks and wading boots and quick drying pants are all you need.

Maybe get a little starter set of flies, but chances are you'll be buying what you will fish with up there, based on the water and the hatch that week. So don't spend a fortune on flies. The guide may even provide them, even if he doesn't rent equipment.

A couple of things you didn't mention:

• Lots of leaders for different lengths and sizes. If you're new you don't want to spend all your time tying your own. I like rio or orvis, with pre-tied loops.
• Different sized tippet for nymphing off a dry fly or whatever.
• Floatant and some kind of sinket... to make your dry flies float and wet flies sink.
• Get a hat and good polarized sunglasses, even if you don't normally use them.
• Fishing gloves. Be gentle with trout, including keeping your skin oils off them. And it helps with sun
• Hemostats. I like having one straight pair and one pair with curved tips
• Specs, if you need them. You'll be tying a lot of knots with spiderweb-thin line. This isn't the time to be proud.

Have fun and don't forget the trip report here!

Ok, our son is really getting into this & we got him a sling bag for Christmas & picked up some hemostas today. But what are the "fishing gloves " you're referring to?

DoitBest said:

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Ok, our son is really getting into this & we got him a sling bag for Christmas & picked up some hemostas today. But what are the "fishing gloves " you're referring to?

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Something like this https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/simms-solarflex-sungloves-for-men-camo

Thanks