Fly Fishing Gear

To start fly fishing, you’ll need a few key pieces of gear: a fly rod, fly reel, fly line, leader, tippet, and a selection of flies. A 5 or 6 weight rod is ideal for beginners targeting trout or bass, while 7 or 8 weight setups work better for steelhead or salmon. You’ll also need polarized sunglasses, waders, and a fly box to keep your gear organized. Many beginners start with a complete fly combo that includes everything you need to hit the water. 

At Angling Sports, we carry starter and pro setups from brands like Redington, Sage,G. Loomis, Fenwick and Echo, plus expert advice to help you make the most of your setup.

Choosing the right fly reel depends on your rod weight, target species, and fishing conditions. Match the reel size to your rod (for example, a 5/6 reel for a 5-weight rod) to ensure proper balance. Look for a smooth, sealed drag system if you plan to target strong fish like steelhead or salmon. For trout, a lighter click-and-pawl drag works great. Reels made from machined aluminium are durable and corrosion-resistant for both fresh and saltwater.

For beginners, the best fly rod is a 9-foot, 5-weight rod; it's the most versatile setup for learning the basics and catching a wide range of fish, from trout and bass to panfish. Look for a medium or medium-fast action rod that offers a forgiving cast and good control. Combo kits that include a matching reel and line are great for getting started. If you plan to chase bigger species like salmon or steelhead, step up to a 7- or 8-weight rod for more backbone.

Floating fly lines stay on the surface and are best for dry flies, nymphs, and poppers, it’s perfect for trout, bass, and panfish. Sinking fly lines (or sink-tip lines) help you get flies deeper, ideal for steelhead, salmon, and lake fishing where fish hold below the surface. Some anglers carry multiple spools to swap between line types as conditions change. The line weight should always match your rod and reel for balanced casting.

The best flies for trout include classics like Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail Nymphs, and Woolly Buggers, while steelhead love patterns such as Egg Sucking Leeches, Intruders, and stonefly nymphs. Fly selection depends on the season and water clarity. It's better to use bright colours in murky water and natural tones in clear conditions. Matching local insect hatches (“matching the hatch”) is key for trout fishing success.

Fly fishing in Ontario means being ready for diverse conditions, from small streams to Great Lakes tributaries. Essential gear includes a fly rod and reel combo, fly line with backing, leaders and tippets, and a selection of flies suited to your target species. You’ll also want Simms waders, boots, and a landing net for wading rivers safely. Don’t forget polarized sunglasses to spot fish and protect your eyes.

At Angling Sports, we stock everything from entry-level trout kits to premium steelhead and salmon setups, along with local fly patterns that match Ontario’s unique hatches and waters.

These are the three main styles of fly fishing. Dry fly fishing uses floating flies that imitate insects on the surface, because it’s visual and exciting. Nymphing targets fish feeding below the surface using weighted flies that drift naturally through the current. Streamer fishing involves casting and retrieving larger flies that mimic baitfish or leeches, it’s ideal for bigger trout, bass, and steelhead. Many anglers switch techniques throughout the day based on water depth and fish behaviour.

Fly fishing in Ontario is great from spring through fall, with each season offering unique opportunities. Spring brings active trout, steelhead, and sucker runs; summer offers great dry fly fishing for bass and panfish; and fall delivers big salmon and steelhead in the Great Lakes tributaries. Water temperature and clarity play a big role because cool and stable flows usually mean better fishing. Don’t forget that early morning and evening are prime bite windows during hot weather.