Whether you are a beginning fly fisherman or a seasoned angler, the selection of tackle and accessories can be mind boggling. With many accessories, it really won't affect how well you fish. However, in choosing your tackle, the decisions become very critical.

Choosing the correct fly line for a given fishing application is one of the most critical elements of fly fishing. The fly line allows you to delicately deliver your fly to the fish. A few of the options available to you are discussed below.

Weight: The weight of the fly line will determine what size fly you can effectively present. A lower weight fly line can cast the smallest of nymphs and dry flies with ease, while a much heavier line weight is needed for casting bulky flies like wooly buggers and streamers.

Special Considerations: Fly lines are available for any number of species and are built to very specific standards to better accommodate the angler. There are lines available for steelhead, bonefish, panfish, etc. My best advice is to select a standard all around line that can be used for a variety of applications. As you progress in your fishing career you can use more specialized lines and determine their value better at that time.

Sinking/ Floating: The decision to use sinking or floating line depends on the type of fishing you most enjoy. Many fishermen elect to fish nymphs almost exclusively, while others prefer dry flies. A floating line can always be made to sink using weight, but the sinking line is much more effective in this regard. It really depends on the type of fishing you will do most. Some fisherman will use both lines and keep the extra on a spare spool that can be easily changed on the stream.

Enjoy the pleasures of fly fishing and resist the urge to become burdened by tackle selection. Most types of line and other gear are very interchangeable and suitable for a wide variety of conditions. For the novice, you will quickly realize what is most important is what catches fish.