So I’m at a fly shop and talking to a fellow Brother of the Art (my fly fishing club name), and we’re discussing a future blue lining trip to the mountains of NC.  A fellow comes over and asks “…what does it mean when fly fishers talk about blue lining”?

I explained that this is the most awesome form of fly fishing.  The term means to fish a creek found on a topo map without a name.   It is a great way to get away from the weekend warriors and the secret spot that you told a friend about who also told his friends and now your spot ain’t so secret anymore!  

Blue lines require a dedication to the art of fly fishing.  True blue liners know that they will sometimes put in a solid days hike to find a stream with few if any trout .  But then again, it could produce a spot so sweet it will rot your teeth!

There are certain precautions every blue liner takes.  First, always let the family know where you are heading…at least a general idea of the area.  Next, plenty of water or atleast a good purifier system.  A good first aid kit.  Food for however long you plan on being out there and don’t forget a snake bite kit.

Tackle is personal choice but remember, you’ll be going where not a lot of folks probably tread so there will be dense undergrowth  and lots of trees of various sorts.  I prefer a six and a half-foot to no more than seven-foot rod.  The trout will be very skittish so light tippets are the rule.  The fly selection won’t be too different from any other stream you fish but hoppers, ants. soft hackle beadhead nymphs and of course the parachute Adams!

Blue lining is an awesome form of fly fishing, you get to see things and experience nature in a whole new way!  For more information, feel free to email me with your questions and I will get back to you ASAP!

Tight Lines!

Jim