Understanding Fly Fishing Equipment

At Northwest Fly Fishing Outfitters, we believe that having the right gear make your fly fishing adventures more enjoyable. With over three decades of expertise, we'll help you navigate the world of fly fishing equipment so you can enjoy more time on the water.

If you have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact us either via email, phone, or you can even message us through the chat feature on our website.  For even more information check out our Learning Center for current blog articles.

Fly Rods: The Heart of Your Setup

Choosing the Perfect Rod

Choosing the right rod depends entirely upon the species you plan on chasing.  Think of the fly rod as a golf club in your bag, it is a tool to deliver your fly line efficienty and fight the fish you are chasing.

We stock premium brands like Winston, Echo, Redington, Orvis, and Sage, offering:

• Freshwater rods (3-6 weight for trout)
• Steelhead rods (7-8 weight)
• Specialty rods for bass and carp
• Travel rods for adventure fishing

Fly Reels: Matching Your Needs

Understanding Reel Types

• Click-and-pawl reels for trout
• Large arbor designs for quick retrieval
• Sealed drag systems for saltwater
• Budget-friendly to professional-grade options

Fly Lines and Leaders

At Northwest Fly Fishing Outfitters we stock the best fly lines and leaders from the best in the industry.  We proudly carry Scientific Anglers, Rio, and Airflo products, all of which have been battle tested.

In our blog,"Understanding Your Fly Fishing Line System: A Beginners Guide" we help breakdown the differences between backing, fly line, tapered leader, and tippet in a bit greater detail.

Essential Line Types

Fly lines are not just as simple as selecting a 5WT line for a 5WT fly rod.  There is a science that goes into selecting the correct fly line depending on what you are looking to achieve.  Selecting the right fly line for your setup is critical in having an enjoyable experience on the water and our pros at NWFFO will get you lined up with just the write lines.

• Weight-forward floating lines
• Double tapered leaders
• Sink-tip lines for steelhead
• Full-sinking lines for lakes
• Specialty tapers for specific techniques

Leader and Tippet Selection

 

• Tapered leaders for different situations
• Fluorocarbon vs. nylon considerations
• Tippet selection guide
• Leader formulas for various species

Essential Accessories

Must-Have Tools

• Nippers and forceps
• Landing nets
• Wading staff
• Fly boxes and storage

Wading Gear and Clothing

Staying Comfortable on the Water

• Breathable waders
• Wading boots and studs
• Layering systems
• Rain gear and sun protection