Learning the ways of fly fishing is A noble pursuit, indeed. But it’s not just about knowing what gear to use, how to cast a line, or what kind of fly to use. To truly master the art of fly fishing, you must ask the right questions. And by that, I mean “why” questions, not just “what” questions.

You see, asking “why” questions is like peeling back the layers of an onion. It’s about understanding the underlying principles that govern the sport. It’s about knowing why you’re doing what you’re doing, and not just blindly following a set of rules.

So, let me give you an example. You might ask, “What kind of rod should I use?” And that’s a fine question, but it only scratches the surface. The real question you should be asking is, “Why should I use this kind of rod?” What are the properties of the rod that make it suitable for a particular type of fishing? How does it affect the way I cast my line? By understanding the principles behind the gear, you can make more informed choices and improve your performance.

And when it comes to choosing a fly, it’s not just a matter of picking one that looks pretty. You need to ask yourself, “Why would a fish be attracted to this fly?” What kind of prey does the fish typically feed on, and how can you mimic that with your fly? By understanding the behavior of the fish and their environment, you can choose a fly that’s more likely to attract their attention.

And don’t forget about the importance of location. It’s not just a matter of finding a nice spot by the river. You need to ask yourself, “Why would a fish be in this location?” What are the environmental factors that make it a good place to fish? By understanding the conditions that attract fish, you can choose a location that’s more likely to produce results.

So, remember that asking “why” questions is one of the keys to unlocking the secrets of fly fishing. It’s about understanding the principles behind the techniques and equipment and using that knowledge to make more informed decisions. And when you do that, you’ll find that the sport of fly fishing is not just about catching fish, but about the joy of the journey itself

-Clare