Star Valley Branch Library Online Adventures

Fly Fishing 101 with Jim Welch

Hi and Welcome to the Star Valley Branch Library Fly Fishing 101 instructional page. We are excited to have Jim Welch with us as our instructor. This is a series of classes recorded by Jim and we will also host a live casting session on June 11 at 10:00 at the Canyon View Park in Afton. We hope you enjoy this class and we wish you well in your fly fishing endeavors.

Meet Jim Welch

If you have any questions not covered by Jim in this 101 class, he has graciously offered to provide his contact information here so that you can reach right out to him. Jim's number is 801-598-3285 and his email is wyo1guy@gmail.com.

Rod basics and composition

First, Let's Talk Fly Rods

In these 3 videos, Jim covers the 3 functions of the fly rod, the composition of the rod, factors to consider when looking to purchase a rod, and offers suggestions as to what type of rod a beginner fly fisher should consider for purchase.

3 Factors to consider when

purchasing a rod

Which rod should a beginner fly fisher purchase?

Reels and Line

Getting real about reels, Jim discusses reel function, composition, and provides examples of reels one could buy. Then he gives very informative instruction on the fly line system including composition, types, and purposes of the line as well as the leader and tippet.

Fly Reel Basics

Types of Fly Line

The Fly Line System

Recommended Fly Line for Beginning Fishers

Images used in Jim's fly line instruction. Images are of Rio products.

Example of fly line box.

Note the WF6F

Example of tapered leader

Note the picture of how the line looks

Tapered leader table

Note the size and strength leader table

The Clinch Knot

Learning the Ropes...or Knots

Let's move in closer as we learn how to tie the essential knots for a 101 fly fisher.

The Surgeon's Knot and Perfection Loop

The 'Uni' or Universal Knot

Bonus: Loop to loop connections

Western Wyoming Flies and Nymphs

Feeling bugged that you aren't catching anything with your flies? Jim explains all the best flies and nymphs to use and why for our fishing area. In these Jim's Fly Box 101 tutorials you will learn that if you keep your own box these western trout flies on hand, "you will be good to do not just here in Wyoming but also over to Idaho, Montana, and in any Western fishing area."

Flies and Nymphs Introduction

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Mayflies

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Caddisflies

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Stoneflies

Midges, Streamers, Terrestrials, Oh My!

Casting

Here, Jim teaches us the mechanics of casting and three essential casts we will need to know.

Remember if you ever need some help or guidance with your fly fishing adventure, you can contact Jim at 801-598-3285 and his email is wyo1guy@gmail.com.