Let’s look at fly angling, more popularly known as fly fishing. When using conventional outfits, the line is meant to get the lure back after the bait is cast and you catch a bite. For fly outfits, the line carries the artificial lightweight lure to the target. Casting can be a sport in itself!

The first step in choosing equipment size is to decide what type of fish you’re angling for. A medium duty outfit (#5 or #6 weight size) will work for trout and small-to-medium bass, for example. If you’re going after bigger fish like pike or larger bass, a #8 would be more appropriate.

Selecting a fly rod means you have to factor in the material used in the blank. Inexpensive fiberglass entails soft action and costs least, while glass and graphite composites (likewise with a quality range varying in expense) increases price. If you fancy some amenities, take a look at the reel seat, cork, rod sock and tube, etc. And of course, the brand name can give you an idea of what you’re getting with the purchase.

If you’re lake or pond fishing, know the ins-and-arounds of the structures where you should be casting. Because the shallows created by structure enable plant growth, bait fish can be found in those areas, and where bait fish are, you’ll find the game fish you’re after. Cliffs and steep banks with underwater shelves and rocks that provide cover and food and mating locales are attractive areas for fish to populate.

Understanding seasonal lake turnover as well as knowing what your desired fish species will give you a big advantage before you even start the actual business of fishing. Spring turnover sees the ice gone and the warmer surface water sinking, at this point, you’ll find fish in shallow areas where warmth and plant growth increases more quickly. To find fish in summer, you should focus on the region where it tends toward cooler water but require the higher oxygen present in warmer water. While in fall, locating fish becomes more difficult than at other times since fish can move freely with more oxygen level throughout the lake.

If you plan to go for saltwater fish, you’ll want to get familiar with a local tide chart while planning an inshore trip—tidal movement is a key component in saltwater fishing. Strong incoming tides can be the best times to saltwater fish because a number of prey will come in with the current towards land.

Picking an appropriate lure depends on how the target fish feeds. Deep-diving plugs, spoons, and jigs work well for bottom feeders and the lower water column. For the middle of the water column and shallower water, check out swimming shad and popping corks. As for the surface feeders, in early morning or directly before dark, use plugs and soft plastics.

Whether you’re beginning to angle or already a pro, you’ll be familiar with the technique of placing a bait in the water and then waiting until a fish bites. And don't forget, you’ll need to have a lot of patience in whatever fishing types you're in. Let's say, good luck!