Introduction
Fly fishing – it might sound intricate, complicated, perhaps even elitist. But don't worry: at Bob's Flies, we see things differently. For us, fly fishing is simply a wonderful way to spend time by the water. It's a mix of concentration, rhythm, observing nature, and – if you're lucky – a trout on the other end of the line. In this guide, we'll explain what fly fishing actually is, how it works, what you need, and why you might just find your new favorite hobby.
What distinguishes fly fishing from "normal" fishing?
Quite simply: Fly fishing isn't about slamming down a heavy lure. Instead, we use the weight of the line to present a feather-light fly – an artificial insect imitation – as naturally as possible. The casting technique is key: forward and back casts generate momentum that sets the line in motion. Sounds complicated? It isn't. With a little practice and feel, you'll quickly get the hang of it.
And quite honestly: the first time you see a trout take your dry fly from the surface – you're hooked.
A brief history of fly fishing
The method is older than you might think. Even in ancient Greece, there were supposedly anglers who fished with "artificial" lures. But it really took off in England – where gentlemen began to celebrate fly fishing in the 19th century. Today, the scene is global, diverse, and thankfully quite undogmatic. You don't need a tweed suit to join in. Just a love of water, nature, and technology with soul.
The basics: How it works
The fly
It looks like a mosquito, mayfly, or caddisfly – but it's hand-tied. And that's precisely the point: the artificial fly imitates prey that fish recognize. Depending on the situation, you use dry flies (floating on the surface), nymphs (underwater), or streamers (prey fish).
The string
This is where the weight comes from. Fly lines are thick and taper at the tip – this allows them to be cast precisely with a swing. They come in floating, sinking, or combination versions (e.g., sink tip). Which one you need depends on the body of water, your technique, and your target fish.
The rod
Light, long, elegant. The fly rod loads up during the cast and transfers the energy to the line. For beginners, we recommend: 9 ft, line weight #4 or #5 – this will serve you well almost everywhere in Switzerland.
The role
Yes, you need one. No, you don't need a high-tech reel costing a thousand francs. A solid reel holds your line, helps when fighting a fish, and ideally, looks good too.
The technique: throwing, guiding, catching
Casting is what sets fly fishing apart from everything else. You don't move the lure, you move the line. The classic cast is the overhead cast – but there are also roll casts, Spey casts, switch casts, and more. The important thing is: gentle, rhythmic, deliberate.
And then? Fly out onto the water, a short lead – and watch. If you do everything right (and have a bit of luck), it happens: a slug, a splash – strike, tension, fight. Pure adrenaline. And if you want, catch and release. Or just a fresh fish for dinner.
What do you need to get started?
Don't worry, you don't need an arsenal. Here's your minimal setup:
- Rod : 9 ft, class 4-5 (e.g. Vision ONKI or STILLMANIAC)
- Reel : matching the rod, with backing
- Line : Floating line, WF profile
- Leader & Tippet : tapered leader + fine tippet
- Fly box : dry flies, nymphs, possibly streamers
- Waders & wading boots (if you're not fishing from the shore)
Tip: We also offer sets that let you get started right away. No frills, but with everything that matters.
The best waters for beginners (in Switzerland)
You don't need a helicopter or a lodge. In Switzerland, you'll find stunning bodies of water right on your doorstep:
- Landwasser near Davos: clear structure, good trout population
- Albula near Bergün: a typical alpine mix of pools and runs
- Valser Rhine : wild, rustic, for ambitious beginners
Of course, you'll need a day or annual pass. You can get one either online or at the local, official issuing offices.
Learning – but doing it right
Sure, YouTube can do a lot. But you learn fastest with someone who shows you what really matters. That's why we offer:
- Beginner courses : 1 day, all the basics, pure practice
- Guiding : half or full day on the water, individually tailored to you
- Workshops : Fly tying, technique, special topics
Whether you've never cast before or are simply looking for new fishing spots – with us you'll get honest guidance instead of angling kitsch. Click here to go directly to the courses & guided trips .
Why we love fly fishing
Because it's not about the biggest fish. It's about the moment. About the tranquility. About that one cast that lands perfectly. And sometimes – about the trout you release, simply because you can.
Fly fishing slows you down. And at the same time, it challenges you. It's a craft, an experience of nature, a bit of science, and quite often simply pure joy.
Conclusion
So, what is fly fishing? For us, it's one of the most wonderful ways to be outdoors. If you want to give it a try, come join us. We'll help you get started, provide you with all the necessary equipment, show you some good fishing spots, and are happy to share our knowledge. Because fly fishing isn't just for professionals – it's for anyone who's interested.
Tight lines & see you soon on the water.