Columnist Barb Henderson: Give fly fishing a try

Barb Henderson

Friday, March 21, 2003 | 9:46 a.m.

Barb Henderson is an outdoors enthusiast, freelance writer and producer/host of outdoors radio television programming. Her column appears Friday in the Sun.

There are many opportunities and techniques for today's fisherman, all with the hopes of "hooking onto a lunker."

A "tug"at the end of any fishing line is an exciting experience.

I absolutely love the sport of fishing. I've had the opportunity to fish waters in Canada, most of the western states and both Hawaii and Alaska, using a variety of techniques for a wide assortment of fish.

I'd have to say, one of my favorite styles would be fly fishing.

When you add a beautiful day, a float tube and a nice fish pulling line at the end of my fly rod ... I'm a "happy camper."

The first time I caught a fish on a fly, I was hooked.

The first time I caught a fish on a fly, while float-tubing, I was literally floating on air.

I've discovered that while in waders inside a float tube when floating somewhere in the middle of a small reservoir, there are often challenges -- especially when nature calls. It's moments like these that remind you that it can take forever to return to the launch area, when you're paddling with only the fins on your feet as your power source.

Besides the obvious of having a rod, reel and flies, you'll need equipment such as waders, boots, fins, a life jacket, fishing tackle, landing net and a license. Oh yeah, and don't forget those personal items like a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, drinking water and a camera.

The camera will play an important role while practicing "catch and release" so that in the future there will be fishing opportunities for our children and their children to enjoy.

For first timers, before fishing from a float tube, experts advise that you should receive professional guidance.

It's always a great idea to go out with someone who's knowledgeable and experienced on how to use a float tube properly. Besides, they'll come in handy when it's time for snapping that special moment on film.

For more information about this unique sport you might consider contacting the Las Vegas Fly Fishing Club, the Southern Nevada Chapter of Trout Unlimited, the Nevada Division of Wildlife's Fishing Education Coordinator, a local fly fishing store, sporting good dealers who handle fly fishing equipment, or obtain a list of certified fly fishing instructors in the area.

Whether you fish with bait, artificial lures or enjoy casting a fly, just remember fishing isn't always about catching a fish; it's more the camaraderie and the memories we make along the way.

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