Fishing WV

The beautiful state of West Virginia is an angler’s paradise, thanks to all the mountain streams, rivers,ponds, and other waterways scattered throughout the state. Game fish are plentiful in WV waters, providing sport for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Different fish and different fishing conditions call for different fishing gear, all of which works best when carefully coordinated.

All differences aside, though, there are some fundamental basics that every angler will want to take along when fishing WV waters:

RODS – Once made of cane, most of today’s fly rods are made of graphite.Graphite is lightweight (easy to carry) and flexible (allowing for some very impressive casting precision and it can bend without splitting or breaking).

FLY REELS – Reels attach the line to the rod and provide some ‘give’ in the line as it’s needed to land a catch. Line weights vary according to the size and speed of the targeted fish and fly lines vary accordingly.

LINES – Fly lines vary in weight, color, and transparency, each factor to be determined by the kind of fishing intended. The weight of the line needs to match the capabilities of both the rod and the fly reel.Mismatched gear creates tangles and missed casts. Some fly lines are made to float on top of the water but some of it sinks for better bottom or underwater fishing.

LEADERS – This invisible expanse of line gets attached between the fly and the colorful fly line. Using a leader allows the fly to be cast in a more natural way,since fish can see a colorful line being cast above and onto the water surface.The more natural effect the invisible leader gives the cast, the more likely a fish will go for it.

FLIES – The assortment of flies is, literally, endless since so many anglers design and make their own. Less industrious anglers have thousands of manufactured flies to choose from at a well-stocked tackle shop and most convenience stores carry a few flies, too. Choose flies according to the type of fishing intended.

FIRST AID KIT – Seems the further away from a medical facility some people go,the more prone to accidents they become. Even if you aren’t so accident prone,a small, basic first aid kit is a good idea. Stock it like the medicine cabinet at home, with band-aids, alcohol, and other supplies needed to tend to small

wounds, bites, and stings. For bigger accidents calling for professional medical attention, always keep an evacuation plan in mind, especially when fishing solo.

It’s also a good idea to take along vests, waders, and a small tool kit containing the tools needed to make repairs on the fly. Fishing WV waters works up an appetite, too, so don’t forget to pack a lunch. And don’t forget the sunscreen.