The Experience of Fly Fishing Boats
Many fly fisherman head to the river outfitted in their waders, knee high wading boots, and fly vest. They generally have their rod in hand and a dozen flies stuck to their favorite fishing hat. This is an iconic view of fisherman that hasn't changed for decades.
However, now it can be hard to find a part of the river to fish. With so many waders out there it can sometimes seem impossible. This is why more and more fisherman are turning to fly fishing boats. Fly fishing boats offer many advantages over traditional river wading.
Giving the Drift Boat a Chance
Fly fishing boats change the way you fish. They allow you to reach all of those pristine fishing holes that wade fishers try to get to. They also allow you move right over the fish without spooking them. Fly fishing boats are ideal for fishing the larger rivers in the Western US.
The drift boat is really an normal dory that has been upgraded for river fishing. Drift boats are characterized by their flat bottom, high sides, and narrow stern. They have a wide center and can spin around in the water effortlessly. The drift boat gives a rower much more maneuvering power compared to other fly fishing boats.
The reason drift boats make such great fly fishing boats is because they were designed with fishing rivers specifically in mind. They have ample dry storage, so you can bring your camera and dry cloths without worrying whether they will stay dry. Not only that, but they allow you to stand and fish. Many have knee locks that allow you to lock yourself in in standing position. This is great if you like to cast far even while running rapids.
Fly fishing boats come in many flavors. River rafts are perhaps the most common. However, drift boats offer significant improvements over rafts. they move much more quickly and turn incredibly fast. Additionally, they can drop anchor at any time. This allows you to stop and fish pods of fish.
The biggest challenge to using a drift boat is that you will need a trailer to haul it and launch it. You will also be limited put-ins that have boat ramps. Additionally, drift boats do not excel in low water conditions.
The final caveat for some fisherman, is the high price of most drift boats. They often cost five grand or more. Of course, if well cared for, a drift boat will outlast any of the other fly fishing boats on the river.
There is plenty of information about fly fishing on the internet. For additional information checkout this site on fly fishing boats.