Spending time on the water with conventional anglers can provide more than just good company—it can completely reshape how fly fishing is approached. When targeting species like smallmouth bass in dynamic waters like the Niagara River, fly anglers often find themselves at a disadvantage if they stick too rigidly to tradition. Observing seasoned spin and baitcasters can open new doors to success, even for experienced fly fishers.
During a weeklong trip on the Niagara River, ten boats carried twenty anglers through a stretch teeming with smallmouth bass, steelhead, and brown trout. While most stuck with conventional gear, one fly rod found its way aboard—and the learning began.
The Niagara River: A Lesson in Adaptability
The Lower Niagara is well-known for its deep channels, powerful current, and incredible fish diversity. This wasn’t a tournament, but it quickly became clear that success hinged on more than fly technique alone. Fly anglers willing to learn from others on the water, especially conventional tackle users, gain a serious edge.
Whether through watching lure presentation, gear choice, or boat positioning, there was a lot to pick up. Here are five essential lessons conventional anglers offered—each one capable of boosting fly fishing results immediately.
1. Match the Method, Not Just the Hatch
When conventional anglers consistently land fish, it’s a signal. In this case, a jerkbait with erratic motion and long pauses was doing the trick. By switching to a four-inch streamer and using a sinking line with a similar retrieve, the fly rod immediately started producing results. Mimicking lure behavior—not just color or size—made all the difference.
2. Fish Attractor Scent Isn’t Off-Limits
While purists may scoff, there’s no shame in using attractor scent on large streamers. If conventional anglers turn to scent when fishing gets slow, there’s value in following suit. For species like bass and carp, applying scent to subsurface flies like Clousers can help trigger a strike when nothing else does. Just avoid it on dry flies or delicate presentations.
3. When in Doubt, Go Chartreuse
Color choice can make or break a day. When all else failed, chartreuse delivered. It’s a standout color in murky or fast-moving water. After losing a productive brown-and-silver streamer, tying on a chartreuse pattern brought bites back almost instantly. It’s no surprise why this shade is a staple among conventional bass anglers.
4. Keep Hooks Razor Sharp
Conventional tackle anglers carry hook sharpeners for good reason. A few scrapes against rocks can dull even premium hooks. Sharpening frequently—especially after snags or missed hooksets—can be the difference between a clean hook-up and a lost fish. Fly anglers should follow this lead and make hook maintenance a habit.
5. Silent Trolling Motors Are a Game Changer
Many know Power Pole for shallow-water anchors, but fewer realize they manufacture trolling motors—quiet ones at that. Watching these near-silent motors in action while running against the Niagara’s current was eye-opening. The stealth factor makes a real difference in shallow or pressured waters. For anyone rigging a flats boat or skiff, this upgrade is worth considering.
Fly Anglers Should Stay Curious
Fly fishing is full of traditions, but that doesn’t mean innovation has no place. Some of the most valuable techniques come from outside the fly fishing world. Conventional anglers spend time dialing in patterns, colors, and gear setups through years of experimentation. Fly anglers who observe, adapt, and aren’t afraid to borrow a few tricks can expect to land more fish—and have more fun doing it.
Image/Source: SI
