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Dan Towsley Guide • Buffalo, Wyoming

Fly Fishing Mountain West Prairie Streams

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Fly fishing in the west is on most people's list who are not from the area. Growing up in Kansas this is what I dreamed of. Meandering spring-fed prairie streams are what I imagine when I think of some of the best fly fishing. You can go to New Zealand for an outing like this or you can fish something very comparable. Small water, big fish, and terrestrials. Having guided for 9 years out west now, I have compiled a list of gear that I have found very useful for excelling at this type of water.

May contain sponsored links*

Rods, Reels & Line

During Late July to the end of August this is what I use for throwing a terrestrial pattern at big aggressive browns. Personally, I like a faster rod with a little back bone, but still able to ease a dry fly into tough places where browns or cutthroat are hiding under.

Moonshine Vesper 8'6" 3wt

This rod has been exceptional towards throwing a Morrish
Hopper giving it enough play to launch a big bug with delicate placement on the water.

Ross Reels Colorado 3/4

A great Click & Pawl reel that is super light and balances this
rod well.

Airflo Superflo Ridge 2.0 Tactical Taper 3wt

This line pairs well with the reel & rod. A delicate presentation for spooky trout.

Airflo Polyleader 8' Light Trout Floating

These leaders have performed very well for
me. Designed for greater suppleness and shock absorption, than the regular Trout Polyleaders, these Light Trout versions are for use on light lines with delicate tippets. Your go-to when stalking fish in lakes or spring creeks.

Rio Power flex Tippet 0x-5x

Flies

When fishing this time of the year my go-to is a single hopper pattern. When fishing deeper pools, I will occasionally throw on a dropper with the length depending on the depth of the hole/seam.

Morrish Hopper Dry Fly

Tan or Yellow Belly. Size 8 or 10 This hopper has lasted on over 50
trout in a day while still keeping its buoyancy.

Jiggy Iron Lotus TB (Dropper)

Size- 14-18

Bags, Boxes, Storage & Organization

Having gear organization that suits you is the most important. I have used different styles of packs and backpacks.

Umpqua UPG HD Fly Box Large

I'm able to keep all of my flies organized in here with
terrestrials on one size with nymphs and smaller dry flies on the other.

Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Chest Pack

This pack is fully waterproof and has enough room for a day guiding on the river.

Simms G3 Waterproof Guide Backpack

Keeping all other gear in here along with
clients' lunches, first aid kit, Garmin in reach, rain jacket, etc.

Clothing

When it comes to clothing, this must be the most important category for me. Having gear that will last out in the elements is a necessity. A good rain jacket, pants that will hold up trip after trip, and clothing that provides protection from the sun.

Fishpond Eddy River Hat

Howler Bros Open Country Tech Shirt

Simms Solarflex Hoody

Simms M's Guide Classic Wading Jacket

Smartwool Men's Merino 150 Boxer Brief

Under wet wading pants.

Kuhl Silencer Pant

My go-to wet-wading pant.

Smartwool Socks

For use under waders.

Simms G3 Guide Waders - Stockingfoot

For cooler conditions.

Simms Guide Guard Wading Socks

Simms M's Flyweight Wading Boot

Simms Hardbite Wading Boot Studs

Tools & Accessories

On the river these are my tools that keep me going during the season. Over the years I have found that these items to be the best in the business for smaller creeks and rivers.

Fishpond Nomad Mid- Length Net

This carbon fiber net is very light and durable. It's great for netting clients fish along with being able for them to use as a wading staff while crossing rivers.

Fly Agra Floatant

I will first apply this to my dry flies and allow them to dry before
fishing. Once they get wet and start to sink, I will add the Dry shake listed below.

Umpqua Shimazaki Dry Shake

Nippers

You don't need anything special here. Fingernail clippers do the job.

Forceps

Just like the Nippers any forceps will work, find something that works for you. Getting some from a dentist or doctor's office are the best option.

Dan Towsley Guide • Buffalo, Wyoming

Fly Fishing Guide - Ranch Manager - Freelance Photographer - Writer

*NOTE: The links to purchase certain products I recommend in this gear list may result in me being paid a small commission. I appreciate your support!