I usually make a social media post or write something up for WVAngler, but before those days, I would handwrite detailed notes about the conditions—water temperature, flies used, presentations, and anything else that seemed relevant.
Another cheesy but surprisingly effective way to remember is to take a picture of the fish with the fly still in its mouth. It makes it much easier to look back later and remember what you were using and what was working that day.
My journaling—and my fly tying, for that matter—has taken a back seat over the years with kids and all the other responsibilities that come with life. However, if you’re just getting started, feedback from people on forums like this or through social media (assuming people are nice about it) can provide some really constructive and important feedback as you continue to grow as an angler.
Like many have said, the biggest thing is time on the water. Ask questions. Post your experiences. Put yourself out there and be willing to be vulnerable. You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s part of learning.
Most of the people I’ve fished with or interacted with over the years have been more than willing to help. There are a lot of good anglers out there who are happy to share what they’ve learned, especially when they see someone genuinely trying to improve.
Another cheesy but surprisingly effective way to remember is to take a picture of the fish with the fly still in its mouth. It makes it much easier to look back later and remember what you were using and what was working that day.
My journaling—and my fly tying, for that matter—has taken a back seat over the years with kids and all the other responsibilities that come with life. However, if you’re just getting started, feedback from people on forums like this or through social media (assuming people are nice about it) can provide some really constructive and important feedback as you continue to grow as an angler.
Like many have said, the biggest thing is time on the water. Ask questions. Post your experiences. Put yourself out there and be willing to be vulnerable. You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s part of learning.
Most of the people I’ve fished with or interacted with over the years have been more than willing to help. There are a lot of good anglers out there who are happy to share what they’ve learned, especially when they see someone genuinely trying to improve.
