Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Tips presents free, seasonal how-to advice from Larry Whiteley, host of the award-winning Outdoor World Radio show. Each weekly tip offers practical advice to improve your skills.

Tips offered for May include the following: Fly Fishing Gear Every Beginner Needs.  Learning to fly fish is no harder than any other kind of fishing if you start with the proper equipment. Fly lines range from 1 weight to a 12 weight. The larger the line number, the larger the line size and the larger the fly you can cast with it. Level lines are the same diameter throughout their length, and are fine for casting short distances but not delicate presentations. Double-taper lines taper at both ends, allow a more delicate presentation, and are best for short to medium cast. Weight-forward lines have larger diameters the first 30 feet. They cast well at all distances and cast larger, more wind-resistant flies better. For most situations, an 8½’ or 9′ rod with a single action reel is best. If you fish small streams, go to a 7½’ or 8′. Line weights your rod will handle will be marked on the shaft. Buy the best rod you can afford, and it will result in less frustration and more fun in learning how to fly fish. For more tips, go to basspro.com and click on 1Source.