Barbless - a type of hook which does not have a barb on the pointed end. Barbless hooks are easier to set in the jaw of the fish and make it easier to release a fish unharmed. Many streams and rivers don’t allow hooks with barbs to be used.

Cast - The process of delivering a fly to the intended target.

Catch and Release - The practice of releasing all fish caught with a fly rod unharmed. It is based on a value that the fishing experience is more important than keeping fish.

Double Haul - A type of cast characterized by the quick pulling in and releasing the fly line in both the backcast and the forecast. Used for long distance casting or with strong wind.

Double Taper - A fly line that tapers at both ends allowing the user to reverse the line when one end begins to wear.

Dry Fly - A fly tied to resemble an insect found on the water surface.

Emerger - A fly designed to imitate a waterborne insect as it is leaving it’s nymph stage and emerging into a flying insect.

Floatant - A substance applied to a dry fly to assist it to sit high on the water surface and not absorb water.

Line Speed - How fast a fly line travels as a result of the casting stroke and rod action.

Load - Stored energy in a rod resulting from forcing a bend into the rod.

Mend - To move the fly line upstream from the location of the fly to ensure no unwanted drag is on the fly that may scare a fish

Weight Forward - A fly line designed with more weight towards the front of the line to assist in casting and loading the rod..

Wet Fly - A fly fished below the surface of the water.