Fly Fishing For Bass - An Easy Way To Use Flies For Bass Fishing

Anyone who spends time fishing for bass knows that bass, both large and small mouth, readily feed on insects both aquatic and flying and the most effective way to mimic an insect when fishing is by using an artificial fly. The problem with this is that to fish while using artificial flies as bait you have to use specialized "fly fishing" gear and line to cast and fish lightweight artificial flies in an effective manner. At least this is what most bass fishermen tend to think.

In this article I will explain how fly fishing for bass doesn't mean that you have to be a "fly fisherman" or use specialized gear and line. I will outline an easy way to use artificial flies for bass fishing and it only involves a few simple pieces of terminal tackle.

The first piece of terminal tackle that you will need is a casting bubble, sometimes referred to as a "fly fishing bubble". This hard plastic sphere, which looks similar to a traditional bobber, can be held under the water allowing water to enter it, which adds weight for casting. Next you will need a five to seven foot leader. While many people like to use a tapered leader, this isn't totally necessary. The important thing is that you can get your fly from five to seven feet from the bubble itself. Finally, you need a swivel to attach the leader to your line and an artificial fly of your choice.

That is all of the terminal tackle that you will need to go fly fishing for bass. The rig is set up as follows; begin by slipping the casting bubble onto your line and tying the swivel to the end of your line to act as a 'stopper'. Now add the leader to the opposite end of the swivel and tie a artificial fly onto the end of the leader. The 'stopper' on the casting bubble is depressed with your finger while holding the bubble under the water to allow water to enter the bubble. Once the desired amount of water has entered the bubble, release the 'stopper' and you are good to go. For dry (floating) flies fill the bubble half way full and to fish a fly under the water (a wet fly) completely fill the bubble with water.

At this point cast the rig into the water, allow the ripples to settle, and retrieve the fly with a slow steady motion. Obviously jerking your rod tip will add "action" to the fly, which many anglers find to be effective. The bottom line is that a casting bubble rig is the best way to go fly fishing for bass for those of us who are looking for and easy way to use flies for bass fishing without having to become a "fly fisherman" there's no doubt about it.

Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 25 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his five year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.

Use a casting bubble to fish a fly while bass fishing.