The Four Branches of the Fly Fishing Government

The Four Branches of the Fly Fishing Government

It’s election season, so why not have a little fun with the “government” of fly fishing? In my opinion, fly anglers can be grouped into four distinct branches, each with its own priorities, quirks, and passions. Let’s explore these branches—and maybe you’ll find where you belong!

1. Catching

Many assume that catching fish is the ultimate goal for all anglers, but that’s not always the case. However, for this branch of anglers, catching more fish is the goal. These anglers are open to all styles and techniques—streamers, nymphs, euro-style, spey, dry flies—whatever gets the job done! Their motto is simple: whatever works.

Catching anglers thrive on the thrill of netting fish after fish, and they’re willing to experiment endlessly to make it happen. You might even catch (pun intended) one of them throwing conventional gear when the situation calls for it (gasp!).

2. Trophy Hunting

These are the thrill-seekers, the daredevils, and, some might say, the psychopaths of fly fishing (just kidding—mostly). Trophy hunters are on a relentless pursuit for the big one. Have you ever caught a trout so big that it won't fit in your fly fishing net? That the goal of the trophy hunter. Picture this: casting thousands of times without a single catch, all in the hopes of hooking the legendary troutzilla.

For these anglers, small fish are an inconvenience at best. Their passion is singular—landing that once-in-a-lifetime monster. If you’re patient (and maybe a little obsessive), you might just fit in with this branch.

3. Casting

For these anglers, it’s not about the fish—it’s about the cast. Perfecting the art of the cast is their ultimate pursuit. They delight in the feeling of a perfectly loaded rod, watching tight loops unfurl in the air.

This is the branch I fall into. I love casting so much that I’ll head to the park just to cast on the grass! Experimenting with techniques like the double haul, spey casting, roll casting, or even advanced mending is where these anglers find joy. Catching a fish is a bonus, but a day spent casting is a day well spent.

4. Tying

The homeschoolers of the fly fishing world, these folks are masters of arts and crafts. Fly tying is their passion—spending hours (or even days) at a tying desk, turning feathers and thread into miniature works of art.

Some tiers rarely fish; they tie flies simply for the joy of creating. Fly tying rooms are something to behold—packed with every material imaginable and an endless supply of creative energy. If you’ve ever met a dedicated tier, you know their minds are a unique and wonderful mystery.

The Unicorn

While not an official branch, the unicorn deserves mention. Unicorns are those rare anglers who excel in all four branches—catching, trophy hunting, casting, and tying. These mythical beings often fish solo because fishing partners can’t keep up with their dedication.

If they’re not fishing, they’re tying; if they’re not tying, they’re reading or dreaming about fly fishing. Meeting a unicorn is a special event. Approach cautiously, ask a few questions, and if you’re lucky, you might befriend one. Unicorns are incredibly generous with advice, techniques, and even flies.

So, which branch of the fly fishing government do you belong to? Whether you’re a dedicated caster, a passionate tier, or even a unicorn, every branch plays its part in making fly fishing the wonderful sport it is. Tight lines, friends!