Keep Sharp, The Cornerstone to a Successful Day on the Water

Fly fishing anglers will often hear fly fishing pundits emphasize the importance of their rod, reel, or even their fishing attire. Yet, Brian Flechsig of Mad River Outfitters and the Midwest Fly-Fishing Schools brings our attention back to two pivotal elements - the fly and the leader. These are arguably the most crucial pieces of a fly fishing setup. In his words, "Nothing matters if your fly sucks." Brian stresses that even if you have the right fly, if your leader can't present it naturally, it's still ineffective.

The heart of Brian’s argument is the significance of a sharp hook. The hook is where the angler meets the fish, the ultimate point of contact. If it doesn't penetrate the fish's jaw properly, all else is rendered moot. 

Many overlook the necessity of maintaining sharp hooks. Conventional anglers regularly sharpen their hooks, but fly anglers seem to neglect this essential practice. Some even opt to just cut back their tippet to switch out flies. With fewer hooks on their line than conventional anglers, fly fishers should be even more diligent about their hook's sharpness.



To help anglers maintain their hooks, we recommend the Dr. Slick Diamond Hook Hone. These tools come with different grit levels for refining the sharpness of the hook, making the sharpening process straightforward and efficient. Brian provides a detailed demonstration on how to use these sharpeners, emphasizing filing away from the hook point for best results. The "thumbnail test," a method taught to him by his grandfather, is a simple way to check the hook's sharpness. If it grabs onto your thumbnail, it's sharp enough.

In conclusion, while many factors contribute to a successful fly-fishing experience, the sharpness of the hook can make or break your day on the water. No matter the quality of your other equipment, a dull hook can thwart your chances of catching fish. As Brian aptly puts it, "Your hook is your point of contact." Keeping it sharp ensures that when the moment comes, you're fully prepared.