I'd like to try fly fishing...

[Jeffrey Lebowski]

I've wanted to try fly fishing since taking a casting class 20 years ago. I'm signed up for a guided trip in the mountains later this summer, but, I truly know nothing.

So, starting at basically zero, and haven't fished in any format in probably 25 years, what do you suggest?

I have picked up two books from amazon:
&
And I started watching the Orvis Youtube Series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMdG-IHxl28
What else are my resources before actually getting out with someone?

This start being limited to Colorado streams, it seems like I want to go somewhere in the range of an 8 1/2 rod and maybe 5 or 6 weight line?
Is this a reasonable, low cost way to get in to trying?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001IAHX6A...=IMUEYDRQ8MT75
I'll go with a gear package for the guided trip, but I wanted to practice some casts and get familiar with the equipment.

From a search, sounds like maybe Waterton canyon is an easy place to start? Potentially up 6 on clear creek at all? Anywhere closer to Golden where I don't necessarily need waders?
I know we have two fly shops in town, one which leads weekly fishing nights, but I'd like to know a little something before showing up greener than green.

What else can you tell me?

[def90]

Blue Quill Anglers up in Evergreen has some great beginners classes and they have reasonable regular guided trips and lessons available. I think the best way to learn is from someone else while doing it. I've read a ton of stuff but books and articles just don't translate as well as in person instruction.

Their intro class is a bargain:

https://bluequillangler.com/classes/introduction-fly-fishing-class/

[fj605]

Thank you for posting that. I'll be signing up for a class the first chance I get. I've only been out once and really enjoyed it. You could say I was 'hooked'.

[funkymonkey1111]

Colorado Mountain Club has fly fishing section with beginner classes, casting included. Right there on golden

[ray1970]

You should get this book. I work with the guy who wrote the book. He's considered something of an expert. In fact, if you just google "Marty Bartholomew" you can find all kinds of info about him and his book.

https://www.amazon.com/Flyfishers-Gu...ty+Bartholomew

[ray1970]

Oh, and if you decide to get the book I mentioned, I think they have it at Bass Pro Shops if you didn't want to order it.

[rondog]

I'd like to also, but I'd definitely have to take classes, I haven't done any serious fishing in 40+ years. Had a fly rod when I was a kid but only caught a few bluegills. Not many trout in NW OK. Problem is, I'm not into catch & release, if I catch a trout I'ma wanna eat it!

[Dryfli]

9 ft 5wt is your basic do everything rod. Basically keep your casting hand tilted down until your thumb is parallel with your wrist and don't move it as you cast. Move your arm from 10 to 2 and hesitate on your back cast so your line can get behind you. If you can do that you'll catch fish it's easier to show than explain in text but that's the basics.

[GilpinGuy]

Like others said, personal instruction will make a huge difference. I'm lucky enough to fish with a guy who turns down guide jobs becasue he thinks it will ruin his enjoyment of it all. He kicks ass and makes me look like a bumbling fool, but I learn a lot from him.

You'll get addicted...have fun!

[GilpinGuy]

And if you want to read some really entertaining true stories about trout fishing, get some of John Gierach's books. I've read them all. John lives (last I heard) in Lyons, CO.

A couple of great ones:

Trout Bum

All Fishermen Are Liars (see one of my quotes below)

Standing in a River Waving a Stick