Joe Humphreys | Nymphing Techniques

The spring can be a challenging time for Trout fishing in Michigan. Temperatures are variable, and the spring rains add to the difficulty,  causing a significant variation in water depths. This time of year can also vary in what you need to use to catch the trout. On warm days you may find an exceptional hatch of Bluewing Olives or another early hatch. Then on another day, you may need to fish deep. These are the colder days or when the water levels are high as the trout often hugging the bottom of the river during these times.

When water levels are variable, I have learned to master the skill of Nymphing and have found this a very successful technique. In this video, Joe Humphery, often called a legend in the flyfishing world, demonstrates the art of nymphing. So sit back, grab your favorite beverage, and learn from a professional!

                             

Brown Trout Caught Nymphing

Start Fly Fishing – Basic Equipment

     

  Equipment That is Necessary or Nice to Have
Fly Rod – this can be purchased as a kit or in individual pieces – rod, reel, and fly line. My first reel was one that I purchased a kit from Cabela’s; it included everything I needed in one box. Eventually, I learned about specifics I liked in a flyrod and have since bought one that fulfilled my needs.
Flies – look at where you plan to fish and find out what people are using in that area. My box always contains some basic flys such as a Hares Ear, Wooly Bugger, and a Parachute Adams. In the beginning, it is easier to purchase a few flies. As your skill grows, you might find it fun to tie your own flies.

Fishing Bag – While you can carry your flies in a fly box, it is nice to have something to put your needed supplies in – I have an Orvis Sling Pack with the Fishe design. A perfect bag that is pretty too. 

Net – While some people do not use them, it is very nice to be able to catch and take a few pictures of your trophy trout.

A practice Rod – this is a stick with yarn and a small cluster of yarn at the end. You can make your own practice rod or purchase one. I spent hours in front of the television casting at an object – a shoe, a piece of lint, the front door. I was amazed at the improvement I made on the river after practicing at home. Orvis now sells a practice rod that includes a few velcro fish that you can aim for and catch. 
Waders – if you plan to fish Rivers or anywhere you will be going into the water waders are a necessity. They will keep your legs dry and warm. The nice thing about waders is they are now making many durable waders designed especially for a woman. They have waists intended for a woman’s curves and colors that are pretty. A wader will come in stocking foot (without boots) or with the boots attached.

Wading Boots – If you have stocking foot waders, you will need boots or shoes to wear in the water. They come in felt bottoms, rubber bottom, or with metal studs.