Learning to fish for a new species can, at times, seem to be an insurmountable task. Approach each new fish the same way and start with the basics. Learn the biology of the fish, learn the techniques and then find local water to put them into application. Endless resources are available to us – books, magazines, and internet. Use your resources and with time, you’ll feel as accustomed to catching Bass, Carp, and Wiper, as you are trout.
Learning the biology of a new species is no more than understanding their description, feeding habits, habitat and seasonal movements. Unless you’re planning on managing a fishery, leave the other stuff to the biologists. The physical description of a fish will reveal mounds of information about its’ nature. Pike for example, have long, narrow bodies, ideal for ambushing fish in short bursts. Largemouth Bass have eyes positioned near the top of their heads allowing them to sit deep into structure, waiting on unsuspecting prey moving above them. Each species is designed to optimize feeding habits. Study these nuisances to succeed.
Feeding habits encompass the food source and feeding patterns of a specific fish. Knowing the food source of a new species will help determine your fly selection, as well as the techniques used to present the fly. Additionally, knowing where food sources are found can further aid your success rate. With all species, conditions affect how heavily the fish will feed. Feeding patterns will give you an idea of what conditions you should be looking for to be successful (i.e. water and air temperatures, light exposure). Plan your trips when fishing should be best.
Habitat is directly linked with feeding habits. Fish are going to be found where their food sources live. Also, as with the pike and largemouth bass, most fish are going to need some structure (usually near their feeding zones) for ambushing and protection. Some species prefer vegetation, while others use rocks and man made structures. Understanding where a species lives will help you avoid unproductive water.
As with feeding habits, current conditions also have an affect on where fish are located. Some fish prefer warmer waters and vise versa, so as the seasons change, fish will relocate to preferable water temperatures. Find out the preferred water temperatures for a specific species. This will help you understand the seasonal movements; in turn you will gain a better understanding of where the fish should be at a given time.
Spawning also influences where fish are. When in their pre- and post- spawn, they tend to be shallower and easier to find. Seasonal movements are key to our success as fly fisherman, as they will dictate whether or not a fish is available to us.
In comparison to conventional gear, little is written about techniques for alternative species on the fly. Put away your preconceived notion of conventional guys (I know most of you have one) and learn something from them. Realize that most of their techniques can, in some form, be duplicated on the fly rod. Find fly patterns that match their best performing baits and lures. Track how they attack specific species during different seasons. Learn how to cover different water columns. Keep an open mind and you will become a much better angler.
Supplement all that you can learn from the conventional guys with articles, blogs, books, and videos on fly fishing for alternative species. A host of great fly fishermen have written something on freshwater species other than trout. Learn some of the techniques used, grab your rod and go out on the water. The best way to learn and understand all that you have learned is through practice.
Finding a local spot for practice that has the species that you are looking for is important when you’re just starting. It offers you a chance to get out for a few hours and practice without devoting a whole day.
Check out our site for up to date reports on local waters. If you have any questions on patterns, techniques, or anything else, feel free to contact me at mattnery@theflyfisher.com. Also, read the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s “Fishery Survey Summaries” to see if there is a fishery in your area that has the species you’re looking for.
Matt Nery
