Runoff is a depressing season of the year among Portland fishers and this comes with lower returns from their trade of fishing. During such a period, you need to have some unique skills that can allow you to increase your effectiveness. Fly fishing is an activity that calls for special skills and knowledge to reduce the wastage people get into while doing it. To help you achieve your goals while fly fishing in Portland, here are simple tips you should adhere to.

User brighter or darker colored flies

One of the things that could distract you while fishing is the color of the water. Sometimes when the water is too dirty, it could take you longer to get your first catch, so it would be advisable to choose darker flies in this case. This is because fish is able to see the silhouette of the dark fly easily than when you use a bright specimen. Again, in off-colored water, fish is more likely to understand the brighter colored flies, so whether you are using nymphs or streamers, apply this rule and you will have success at the end of the day.

Fish worms

Many people in Portland underestimate a fish worm, but in most cases it works. Worms offer a good amount of protein that fish will not ignore, so if you find using insects slow, you could try out fish worms. The most recommended option in this case would be the San Juan worms, which work well and have a high rate of success.

Keep track of patterns

As a fly fisher, you should record details after every fishing trip. This information can be used in the future and will help you to remember subtle details and patterns that come up during each fishing day. If you fish on some water bodies consistently, this method is likely to work since you will be in a position to predict what to expect so you can prepare adequately in advance. Having knowledge about a certain water body also gives you the privilege of applying specific techniques that are bound to work, which saves you time besides increasing your chances of success.

Tying effective knots

The other subtle yet effective strategy you could apply is tying effective knots. The biggest failure when fishing comes as a result of poorly tying the knots, and this is something you can avoid with the right knot tying techniques. To tie effective knots, it is advisable to moisten the knot before you pull the line tight and make sure to do this slowly. Also watch for some weak frays or abrasion that could render your knots incapable to hold a lot of weight. The best way to know if the knot is perfect is to test it with a strong pull.

Practice casting

To make a perfect cast, you need to have the highest levels of accuracy and this only comes with practice and learning. You could even practice against a wall in your compound. Doing so each day will improve your skills in fly fishing.