Local fly shops? Pointers for a newb?

[johnr]

So long story short, I’ve become interested in fly fishing. I’ve been tying my own for white perch, used above spoons, but have been tyin and trying some in the pond for bluegills and bass. It’s been a blast. I’d like to target white perch in the lake on flies, but I don’t really know where to start.

Typically I’d be targeting them at 15-20’ deep, and would probably be using smaller minnow flies like magic minnows or small clousers. How do I get that deep?

I need to get a new fly rod since someone stepped on mine, would a 6wt be appropriate?. I’ve got a reel with floating line already, but I’m guessing I’ll need another reel with sinking like?

I have no desire to target trout. Maybe some big panfish and perch. Any pointers or tips? Or any tips where I can get this stuff?

[drag4striper]

I am definitely only a novist fly fishermen at best.
And really haven't been in several years.
Stocked trout was my prime target, but I have caught a few fish in lakes and ponds when a hatch or cicadas were emerging.

Local stores that carry supplies:
Orvis
Sportsmens warehouse
Probably others

Online:
Jannsnetcraft.com
Cabelas
Bass pro

I started out with cheap Fly rod and reel combo from Kmart or Wal-Mart in a 5 wt.
I used that for a few years, then a buddy built me a 4 weight 7'8" rod for Christmas and I've been using it for along time now. I love it for stocked size trout using bead head nymphs and have caught trout up to 24" on it, but that pushed it to its limits.
I think a 6 wt rod would be more rod than you need unless you wanted it for double duty on larger fish than perch.

There are several ways to get your flies deeper, sinking line which you mentioned.
Then using materials for added weight while making your flies such as tungsten or brass bead heads, lead wire wrap and copper wire.


Also micro split shot on your line.

[smlfishing]

Just to add Orvis has a outlet at their main facility on blue hills drive. You never know what they have but you can find some good deals for orvis.

[johnr]

Thanks guys! I’m a minute away from the Orvis outlet, which I didn’t know about so I’ll be checking that out at lunch.

[ductape]

If you need a new rod Sportsmans Warehouse has some on sale. I just got a good deal on one the other day. I think a 6wt would be good. I've caught them on my 8wt and it is a little overkill. For fishing 15-25 ft, a weighted fly (clouser, etc) and an intermediate line will work great. I'm new to the site and to the lake, but 99.99% of my fishing is on the fly. Hope this helps.

[johnr]

I ended up with an 8wt from there. I sometimes encounter stripers and catfish when in the perch and wasn’t sure about a 6.

I’m using a level 3 line and some small streamers like above.

[ductape]

Awesome man.

[fly]

Sorry JohnR... just now seeing this. For doing what you a talking about a 6 wt. with a full sink works better. The larger diameter of the 8 wt. line will cause it to "belly out" more than the 6 wt. Reguardless of if you are using a 6 or a 8, you definitely want a full sink... stay away from the Orvis lines, they don't last. I use Airflo lines.. the Airflo sixth sense full sink is money...