Creek Chubs/Fallfish: Fly Fishing Experience

By Seth

  Nothing is more of an embodiment of fly fishing for some than the wild mountain creek in the remote wilderness, chasing down wild trout, reveling in the breathtaking scenery. However, such places aren't exactly common, and the price needed for some of the trips aren't exactly common either. 

  I once was in charge of teaching some students to fly fish before they went to the mountain streams of Virginia for a trout fishing trip. Great stuff. To let them experience fly fishing in a "stream", I took them to a little creek behind their neighborhood. 

 Above: Large minnows, such as chubs, can provide you with some fly fishing experience.
 
  After they got the right flies to tie on, and set things up, they practiced presenting their flies to....... creek chubs and fallfish, with the occasional smallmouth and sunfish. They learned to feel bites, and handle fish. When they got to Virginia, they caught a bunch of trout and had a blast.

  Experience is the real teacher in fishing, and as a substitute for a mountain creek, going to a local creek is fine. Fish for the local creek dwellers to build up your skill and experience. Reading/watching videos never trumps real experience on the water. Creek fish can be challenging sometimes, too, and certain fish, such as smallmouth, put up very nice fights. Plus, it's a lot of fun.

Regards,

​Seth