Putting wet flies back into your fly box is a great way to not only rust the hook on that fly, but every fly around it. Utilizing some sort of fleece or foam fly patch on the exterior of your pack or vest to temporarily store flies as they dry will save you a lot of headaches (and money). An exterior fly patch also serves as a great “bullpen” for other flies you may want to to try through the day.
“On the Fly” is a feature in my monthly newsletter offering quick fly fishing tips to make your life on the water a little easier…
At the end of your fishing day, strip all of the loose coils of fly line from your reel and reel it back on tightly, using your fingers to apply pressure and guide the line evenly on the reel. This will ensure you begin your next fishing day tangle free!
Prepare your boots and waders before putting them on. Walking around on the neoprene feet of your waders looking for boots and other gear is a good way to damage them. Have your boots ready to step into as soon as you slip on your waders and consider having a mat to stand on. Also, tucking your pant legs into your socks ahead of time will prevent them from “riding up” your legs when you put on your waders.