Getting Started on Your Fly Fishing Journey?

A Complete Beginner's Guide

Welcome to the World of Fly Fishing

As Portland's oldest fly shop with over 33 years of experience, we've helped thousands of beginners start their fly fishing journey. We are here for your fly fishing journey and want to help you enjoy this sport that we are passionate about.

Essential Gear for Beginners

Before heading to the water, you'll need some basic equipment. While fly fishing can seem gear-intensive, starting doesn't have to be complicated or expensive and at NWFFO we are here to help people in the journey of fly fishing.

The Basic Starter Kit

There are some key items you will need to begin your fly fishing journey.  To get started you will can either rent a fly rod and reel setup, or purchase your very own.  If you want to purchase your own, you will need to select the following either from our online store or in person.

• Fly Rod and Reel Combo (9-foot 5-weight recommended for beginners)
  
• Floating Fly Line
• Leader and Tippet
• Selection of Basic Flies
• Forceps & Nippers (fingernail clippers will do)
• Net,
• Waders and Boots (optional for starting)
• Oregon or Washington Fishing Licenses if you plan to fish
• An adventurous spirit

As a great option for beginners, we have many starter kits that are an affordable way to get the complete setup.  Our beginner kits from Orvis, Redington, and Echo are an easy way to get on the water enjoying fly fishing.  These kits come with everything you need shy of the flies to get you fishing.

Learning the Basics

Fly Casting Fundamentals

The key to fly fishing success lies in mastering basic casting techniques. Our "Intro to Fly Fishing" class at Northwest Fly Fishing Outfitters provides hands-on instruction in:

• Roll cast
• Basic overhead cast
• False casting
• Line management

Where to Start Practicing

The beauty of fly fishing and getting better is that you can practice nearly anywhere.  We suggest finding local bodies of water (ponds, lakes, rivers, creeks) where you can have plenty of casting room behind you.

Our team will also take people to our local parks where we have open space to work on the vairous casts.

We even have products like the Echo Mirco Practice Rod or Orvis PracitCaster that give you the opporutnity to work on your casting within the comfort of your own home, and side note, they make a great cat toy.

Next Steps in Your Fly Fishing Journey

Educational Resources

• Sign up for our popular "Intro to Fly Fishing" class
• Join our guided trips on local waters
• Visit our Portland Fly Shop for personalized advice
• Subscribe to our newsletter for tips and updates
• Read our blog/learning center designed to help you become a better fly angler

Building Your Skills

Start with these fundamental techniques:

• Reading water
• Understanding basic entomology
• Knot tying
• Fish handling and release techniques

Ready to Start Your Fly Fishing Adventure?

Visit our shop in person at 10910 NE Halsey St, Portland, or call us at (503) 252-1529 for personalized guidance. Our experienced staff is ready to help you begin your fly fishing journey with the right gear and knowledge.