Zander fly tackle

Before we get on to the tackle used for Zander fly fishing please remember that there is always a chance of hooking a Pike.

Firstly in order to be able to catch any fish on the fly you will need to be able to cast a fly line. There are plenty of casting instructors in the UK and they will be able to give you first class tuition on all aspects of fly casting. So let’s take a general look at what tackle you will need to fly fish for Zander.

Rods

There numerous fly rods on the market these days covering more or less every species that swims in the rivers and lakes of the UK. As a species in general the Zander doesn’t attain the gross weight of Pike so it is acceptable to use a rod with an a.f.t.m rating of 9# and a length of 9ft with a mid to fast action. This weight rod with the correct fly line will assist in casting those big flies.

Reels

 There are plenty of fly reels out there, choose a good reliable make that will hold at least 100yds of backing and a full weight forward fly line. Make sure it also has a good drag system as well as a large arbour.

Fly lines

 Fly lines for Zander are much the same as the lines used to fly fish for Pike. Don’t skimp on price choose the best you can afford and lines with a good pedigree. Floating, intermediate and fast sinking lines of various makes are widely available.

Leaders

The most commonly used and most reliable leader material on the market today is Seagar fluro carbon, Rio and Riverge fluro have also proven to be reliable. These products come in a wide range of breaking strains and it is advisable to choose one of at least 20lb plus test. Make the length of the leader around 5-6 feet in length.

Wire tippet

 There is no doubt that you will need a wire tippet of at least 12inches in length to avoid any bite offs. Remember that Pike will readily take a fly and they will bite through monofilament. A vast range of knottable tippets have come on to the market since the increase in the trend to fly fish for predators.

 Swivels & Clips

Some anglers prefer to tie the fly direct to the wire tippet by means of various knots for the purpose; others prefer to add swivels and clips. Make sure you choose those that have at least a 30lb test.

Flies

 There are literally hundreds of flies for predator fishing and it’s a case of trial and error with different patterns to see which ones work for you and which colours and sizes work on different waters. Some very big Zander have been caught on the tinniest flies right up to flies approaching 8inches long. You may wish to tie your own creation, it’s great to catch on one of your own patterns.

Landing/ unhooking

 You are going to need some tackle to land and unhook the fish you catch. A landing net with a 30inch spread will be ideal for Zander and big enough if you should hook a pike by mistake. A pair of forceps and a pair of wire cutters are essential tools when predator fishing. An unhooking mat will help protect the fish from damage on gravel and rough ground when removing the hooks.

Conservation

So you’ve unhooked your fish and taken some photo’s maybe, time to return the fish to the water. Hold the fish in the margins ,or near the side of the boat and take a hold of the fish by the tail root and gently move the fish backwards and forwards to get the oxygen into the gills. When you feel the fish wants to swim away release it gently.

Social

The social side of fishing is just as important as the fishing itself, and there is nothing like a good network of like minded friends to encourage and inspire. Join the Zander Society and meet up with some of the top predator fly anglers in the UK who are always on hand to give advice and encouragement. As a member you can access the club forum and meet up with friends and learn more about the fascinating world of Zander fly fishing.

Peter Jones.