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How to Turn a Spinning Rod Into a Fly Rod

A fly is a type of bait used to catch fish. Fly fishermen use a special technique that allows the bait and hook to travel with the water's current to attract fish. Although there are fly rods designed specifically for this kind of fishing, you can modify your spinning rod and line to fly fish. Fly fishing with a spinning rod works well in fast-moving or deep water.

Things You'll Need

Spinning rod
Nymph fly
Split shot
Fishing line

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a fishing line between 2 and 6 lbs. If you are fishing in fast-moving water or for heavy fish, choose the heavier line.
- 2
  Tie a nymph fly onto the end of your fishing line. Use an improved clinch knot (see Resources). Dip the knot in water to moisten it before pulling it tight.
- 3
  Attach split-shot weights to your line about 12 to 18 inches above the nymph. Cast your rod with different weights to find the amount that works best in the water in which you're fishing. The weighted line should allow the nymph to sink far enough into the water to move along with the current.
- 4
  Cast your rod upstream as is traditional in fly fishing. Allow the fly to drift downstream with the current.
- 5
  Hold slack in the line with whichever hand is not holding the rod, as you would with a fly rod. When the line has traveled downstream past your location, reel it in and cast upstream again.

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