Beginner kits do not include flies, which vary according to local waters and can be purchased separately. Flies can be found online, at community events, or at local outfitters.
A fly fishing vest or hip pack is a must to store flies, lines, strike indicators, and nippers. A hard-wearing chest wader fits the bill.
Online Shops
When you shop at a reputable online fly fishing store, you will be guaranteed the quality of your gear. Online retailer Shops have a wide selection of waders, fly rods and reels, and accessories, including hats, vests, and shirts. The store also offers many fly fishing books and videos to help newcomers learn the ropes.
Another industry powerhouse specializes in everything from rods and reels to flies, waders, and accessories. Their products have long been lauded for their high quality, and the company has an extensive customer service department ready to answer any questions.
You can find great deals on online gear by shopping at their website directly. The online retailer often has sales, and you can also get a discount on your purchase by registering for their email newsletter, such as Orvis coupons. You will be among the first to hear about new releases and get exclusive coupons and discounts.
If you are an active military member, you can receive a 10% discount on purchases through their program. The discount applies to active duty personnel, National Guard members, reservists, veterans, and immediate family members. The company also offers a free trial membership for veterans.
Homemade Goods
A simple rod, reel, and small collection of flies is all you need to start fly fishing. But as your love for the sport grows, you may want to tackle bigger or colder waters, fish during the shoulder seasons, and expand your horizons. That’s when you will need more gear.
A good pair of polarized sunglasses is essential to a fly fisherman’s success on the water, primarily if you fish in rivers with a lot of sun and reflective surfaces. You can get yours for a great price at several online shops.
Another essential is a good set of tying tools. A collection of nippers, scissor clamps, and thingsamabobber strike indicators will help you tie better flies and improve your chances of landing that next big fish. You can get them for a great price at several online shops
Some offer a free e-newsletter that delivers sale alerts and other information to your inbox. You’ll also receive a coupon code for 15% off your first purchase, so it pays to sign up! You can find the form on their website at the bottom of any page. In addition to getting the latest sales, you can sign up for exclusive events and other opportunities to take your love of fly fishing to the next level.
Coupon Codes
Whether shopping for yourself or someone else, you can save on all purchases using promo codes. Add your favorite products to your cart, then head to the checkout page. There, you will see a field labeled “Promo Code.” Enter your code and click Apply, and your discount will be applied to your total.
The best way to ensure you get the most bang for your buck is to sign up for the email list. Then you will receive the latest trending deals, event invitations, and store news before anyone else. You can also track your order until it arrives at your doorstep.
As a bonus, all active-duty military members, veterans, National Guard, and reservists can take advantage of the program’s 10% discount on the entire site year-round. Log in with your ID or create a free account to start.
A few other must-haves that can help you improve your experience are a fishing net, which makes landing fish much easier on you and the fish, and polarized sunglasses, which cut the sun’s glare and allow you to see the water line more clearly. And, of course, a fly rod and reel are the cornerstones of any fly fishing setup. If you’re just starting, choose a light enough to cast comfortably and versatile enough to accommodate your future skill level.
Shipping and Return Policies
If you are new to fly fishing, entering a shop with thousands of fly patterns, racks of seemingly identical rods, and staff that have weathered years of days on the water might seem intimidating. But with the right gear, you can take your first steps into the sport with confidence.
For beginners, a starter kit with a rod, reel, and pre-loaded line is an easy way to get started. The beginner combo is a simple buy with a protective case, built-in rod sleeve, and reel already spooled up with a weight-forward floating line and backing. Beginners also need a fly box to keep flies organized and easily accessible, along with strike indicators or bobbers.
Lastly, a net will make landing fish easier for the angler and better for the fish (please practice catch-and-release). A starter net is not the prettiest to look at or feel, but its straightforward functionality makes it an intelligent choice for beginnings.
If you decide your new gear differs from what you want, some have a 30-day return policy for regular-priced items. Full refunds or in-store credit are available for products that are returned undamaged and in original packaging. A restocking fee may apply. Learn more on the returns page of the site. The simplest way to avoid restocking fees is to purchase only what you need for your next trip.