Beginner’s Guide to Fly Fishing: Gear You Actually Need

If you’re new to fly fishing, the amount of gear out there can feel overwhelming. Waders, lines, leaders, rods, flies… where do you start? At Anglers Den, we’ve been helping anglers in Utah and beyond for over 20 years — here’s the no-nonsense guide to getting started.

🪶 Start With the Essentials

1. Fly Rod

Your fly rod is your most important tool. As a beginner:

• Start with a 9-foot, 5-weight rod — it’s the most versatile size for Utah rivers and streams.

• We recommend something with good warranty support, like Orvis Clearwater or Echo Base.

2. Fly Reel

Your reel holds your line and balances your rod.

• For most freshwater fishing, you don’t need anything fancy.

• Look for a lightweight reel with a disc drag system.

3. Fly Line, Leader & Tippet

These three work together:

• Fly line does the casting (get weight forward floating line for most fishing).

• Leader connects the line to your fly (start with a 9ft 4x leader).

• Tippet is extra line you tie on when your leader gets short.

We can spool your reel in-store, or you can buy a kit online.

🥾 Waders & Boots (Optional, but Awesome)

If you’re fishing rivers like the Ogden or Weber, you’ll want to wade.

• Breathable waders keep you dry.

• Wading boots with rubber soles help you stay upright on slippery rock.

🪰 Flies You Actually Need

Don’t overthink it. These flies catch fish in Utah:

• Parachute Adams (dry fly for trout)

• Pheasant Tail Nymph (works almost everywhere)

• Woolly Bugger (deadly in stillwater or rivers)

Ask our staff or check our Utah Fly Pack for an easy start.

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🧢 Final Add-Ons

• Nippers (to cut line)

• Forceps (remove hooks)

• Fly Box

• Landing Net

These make your time on the water smoother — and safer for the fish.

💬 Need Help? Come See Us in Roy.

We’re more than just a tackle shop — we fish the same waters you do. Stop by Anglers Den or explore our growing online shop to get started with fly fishing the right way.

🔗 Shop All Fly Fishing Gear