10Best.Guide

Fly Fishing Accessories

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Lightweight and sturdy
  • Holds up to 7 spools of tippet
  • Easy to use and clip onto vest
  • Great value for the price
  • Includes tippet and line cutter
Cons
  • Elastic retention on spools can be difficult to use
  • Deceptive product photo
Bottom Line
The Fishpond tippet holder is a great value for the price, offering a lightweight and sturdy option for holding up to 7 spools of tippet. While some users have had issues with the elastic retention on the spools, the included tippet and line cutter make this a convenient and practical accessory for fly fishing.
Pros
  • Good for beginners to try a variety of flies without spending a lot of money.
  • Includes a good selection of leeches, streamers, nymphs, and dry flies.
  • Hooks are sharp and catch fish.
  • Good quality fly for experienced fly fishers.
  • Cheap and inexpensive for practicing different presentations.
Cons
  • Flies can untie/fall apart after heavy use.
  • Beads are painted plastic and have no weight.
Bottom Line
This product is a good choice for beginners who want to try a variety of flies without spending a lot of money. The selection includes leeches, streamers, nymphs, and dry flies, and the hooks are sharp and catch fish. However, the flies can untie/fall apart after heavy use, and some are not tied well. The midge flies are beautiful and durable, but the beads are painted plastic and have no weight. Overall, this product is a good value for the price and includes all the basics a beginner fly fisherman needs to get started.
Pros
  • Silicone net bag is deep enough to hold fish
  • Holes are a good size for most fish
  • Elastic strap is easy to maneuver
  • Quality of the net is good for the price
  • Hooks don't get caught in the netting
Cons
  • Small fish can slip through the holes
  • Difficult to scoop up bigger fish
Bottom Line
The Mounchain landing net is a good value for the price. It has a deep silicone net bag that can hold most fish, and an elastic strap that is easy to maneuver. However, small fish can slip through the holes and the netting is a little shallow. The cotton twine used to fix the net to the frame may not be durable, and some orders may be missing the bag.
Pros
  • Easy to use for those with hand or vision issues.
  • Works well for tying nail knots and splicing lines.
  • Durable and well-made.
  • Can be used to tie on flies.
  • Small and portable.
Cons
  • Instructions are not helpful.
  • Tool may be too short for some users.
Bottom Line
This tool is a great option for those who struggle with tying knots due to hand or vision issues. It is durable, portable, and can be used for tying nail knots and splicing lines. However, it may take some practice to master and the instructions are not helpful. It is also not suitable for tying braided line to mono or fluoro leader.
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Pre-tied loop is convenient for beginners
  • Good value for novice fly fishers
  • Solid knots and good quality loops
  • Low memory and turn over flies well
Cons
  • Tend to tangle and coil up
  • Some leaders have kinks or mechanical damage
Bottom Line
These leaders are a good value for novice fly fishers or those looking to experiment with different leaders. However, they may not be the best choice for experienced anglers or those who fish frequently due to tangling and line memory issues.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Fly Fishing Accessories

Overview

Fly fishing is a popular outdoor activity that requires a range of specialized accessories. These accessories not only make the fishing experience more enjoyable but also improve your chances of catching fish. However, with so many accessories available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones. This guide will help you understand the different types of fly fishing accessories, key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs to make an informed purchase.

Types

1. Fly Rods: The most important accessory for fly fishing is a fly rod. They come in different lengths, weights, and actions.

2. Fly Reels: Fly reels are used to hold the fishing line and provide drag when reeling in a fish.

3. Fly Lines: Fly lines are designed to match the weight of the fly rod and reel and are available in different densities and tapers.

4. Leaders and Tippets: Leaders and tippets are used to connect the fly line to the fly and are available in different lengths and strengths.

5. Flies: Flies are the artificial lures used to attract fish and are available in different sizes, shapes, and colors.

6. Waders and Boots: Waders and boots are worn to keep the angler dry while wading in the water.

7. Nets: Nets are used to scoop up fish once they are caught.

8. Vests and Packs: Vests and packs are used to carry all the necessary accessories while fishing.

9. Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses are essential to reduce glare and see fish in the water.

Key Considerations

1. Skill Level: Consider your skill level before purchasing accessories. Beginners may require simpler and less expensive gear than experienced anglers.

2. Fishing Location: Consider the type of water you will be fishing in (freshwater or saltwater) and the species of fish you will be targeting.

3. Budget: Determine your budget before purchasing accessories.

4. Quality: Invest in high-quality accessories as they will last longer and perform better.

5. Compatibility: Ensure that all accessories are compatible with each other and your fly fishing setup.

Features

1. Material: Look for accessories made from high-quality materials such as graphite, aluminum, and stainless steel.

2. Durability: Accessories should be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of fishing.

3. Weight: Consider the weight of accessories as heavier gear can be tiring to use for extended periods.

4. Size: Choose the appropriate size of accessories based on your body type and fishing needs.

5. Ease of Use: Accessories should be easy to use and maintain.

Prices

Fly fishing accessories are available at a range of prices. Prices vary based on the brand, quality, and features of the accessory. Beginners can start with budget-friendly gear and upgrade as they gain experience.

Tips

1. Practice casting before purchasing gear to determine the appropriate weight and length of the fly rod.

2. Research the fishing location and species of fish to determine the appropriate flies and accessories.

3. Invest in high-quality waders and boots to stay comfortable and dry while fishing.

4. Keep accessories organized in a vest or pack for easy access while fishing.

5. Use polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and increase visibility in the water.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between freshwater and saltwater fly fishing gear?

A: Freshwater gear is designed for smaller fish and lighter tackle, while saltwater gear is designed for larger fish and heavier tackle.

Q: What is the difference between a fly line and a leader?

A: A fly line is the main line that connects the fly reel to the fly, while a leader is a section of line that connects the fly line to the fly.

Q: Can I use regular sunglasses for fly fishing?

A: Regular sunglasses do not have polarized lenses, which are essential for reducing glare and seeing fish in the water. It is recommended to use polarized sunglasses for fly fishing.

Q: How do I choose the appropriate weight of the fly rod?

A: The weight of the fly rod should match the weight of the fly line. Heavier lines require heavier rods, while lighter lines require lighter rods.

Q: How do I maintain my fly fishing gear?

A: Clean and dry all accessories after use and store them in a dry and cool place. Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear and replace any damaged gear.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Strong clasp and spring
  • Solidly built
  • Compact and easy to swap between bags
  • Holds gear like forceps, line nippers, and hook sharpeners handy
  • Holds and retracts snips and hemostats
Cons
  • Tensile length is not as long as advertised
  • Weak and not durable
Bottom Line
These zingers are a good option for holding small fishing gear, but buyers should be aware of the limitations and potential durability issues.
Pros
  • Sufficient compartment to hold a variety of baits and lures
  • Good quality construction and material
  • Strong double pull zippers
  • Lots of smaller pockets and compartments
  • Perfect size for short fishing trips
Cons
  • Too many straps that don't get used
  • No chest strap to prevent shoulder straps from sliding down
Bottom Line
This over-the-shoulder fishing bag is a great option for those who want to carry tackle and tools without the weight of a tackle box. It has sufficient compartments, good quality construction, and strong zippers. However, it lacks some comfort features and is not waterproof.
Pros
  • Good tippet holder solution
  • Easy to attach to lanyard
  • Holds more than 3 spools
  • Nice spool holder and clip
  • Thin tippet that matches bigger names
Cons
  • Tippet is lousy, brittle, and breaks easily
  • Tippet spool packaging needs better storage
Bottom Line
The SF Clear Tippet Line with Holder Fly Fishing Tippets is a good option for those looking for a cheap tippet holder solution with thin tippet that matches bigger names. However, the tippet is lousy and brittle, and the spool packaging needs better storage. The holder is not substantial, but it is easy to attach to a lanyard and holds more than 3 spools. The spools have no indication of weight, and the white sticker covering the diameter can be hard to read. The clinch knot doesn't work well, but the improved clinch knot works great. The tippet is strong and durable, and the holder is shaped like an upside down T with a clip on the opposite end.
Pros
  • Works as described and easy to use
  • Helps with tying small flies and jigs
  • Good for people with bad eyesight or arthritis
  • Easy to learn how to use
  • Useful for light line and panfishing
Cons
  • May not work well for all sizes of flies
  • Some users found it flimsy or hard to line up with the hook eye
Bottom Line
The Ty-Rite Jr. is a helpful tool for those who struggle with tying small flies or jigs, have bad eyesight or arthritis. However, it may not work well for all sizes of flies and some users found it flimsy or hard to use.
Pros
  • Provides an extra hand while fishing.
  • Holds the rod in place while changing flies, unhooking fish, and releasing them.
  • Keeps expensive reels and rods off the ground and out of the water.
  • Allows for quick swapping of rods.
  • Can adjust the angle to hold the rod tip higher or lower.
Cons
  • Difficult to set the tension to keep the holder in position.
  • Requires a wide belt.
Bottom Line
The O'Pros Fly Fishing Rod Holder is a useful tool for fly fishing that provides an extra hand and keeps expensive equipment off the ground and out of the water. However, it may have some issues with securing the holder in place and requires a wide belt.
Please add more products to compare
You can compare up to four products at once
{{compareData.brand}}