The often quoted “KISS principle” (Keep It Simple Stupid) is as applicable to fly fishing as it is to anything else in life. Most of the time, it gets the job done. If not, THEN we can get a little more complex.
For the last 3 years, I’ve subtracted from the gear I carry while fishing AND from my fishing approach. Why? Simple, to see how little can be done to achieve the desired outcome! It’s made fishing more fun, adding a different type of challenge. If a certain situation needs something more, I can always bring it in. I’ve never carried a lot of equipment waterside, however, it’s now becoming less and less. For 2025 it will be stripped back further. Less choice, means faster, more effective, and focused fishing.
Remember, all we need most of the time is: –
- Know where the active fish are.
- Be able to get our fly there, without them knowing we did it.
- Successfully detect and convert the take!
To achieve this, you won’t need much. So, now ask yourself the questions, How do I achieve the above? What do I need to achieve it?
Have Fun!
SJY