
The most distinctive terminal gear in fly fishing are the famous “files.” A popular hobby in itself, “fly tying” is considered an art form in which intricate, beautiful examples can become prized collector’s items. Nearly invisible monofilament or fluorocarbon leader is usually used, to separate the fly from the line as fly fishing line is often thick and brightly coloured.
Fly fishing line is thick and heavy, to help the angler cast the fly as far as possible. It is usually brightly coloured, to help the angler aim the fly during casting.

Fly fishing rods are long and flexible, to help with the distinctive, back-and-forth “whipping” motion needed to deliver a light fly a long distance. Another distinctive difference in fly fishing rods is that they are usually “paired” with a specific weight of fishing line. For example, an 8-pound rod would be matched with an 8-pound line for tidal Salmon fishing, while a 3-pound rod and line would be matched together for freshwater trout.

Fly fishing reels are distinctively large and round single-action reels, which allow the angler the maximum control when both letting out line during casting, and also when reeling in a fish.