Backcountry Fishing

What angler doesn’t dream of catching fish in a pristine stream or lake, where you’re unlikely to meet other people? A trip to such an area is usually described as “backcountry fishing”, although the meaning of the term is broad and varies from area to area. In Florida, for instance, “backcountry fishing” stands simply for “not on the seashore”, and includes flats fishing for species including tarpon and shark. For most anglers, however, “backcountry fishing” describes a journey into the wilderness, likely staying overnight in a camp or a remote lodge. A hike up the Rocky Mountains after wild trout and flying a bush plane to a nameless lake in Manitoba fall under this category. Backcountry fishing may target any kind of fish, from the most common species like brook trout or perch, to the exotic monsters such as taimen salmon and arapaima. Most anglers associate remote areas with fish that have an opportunity to grow bigger than elsewhere, but this is not a given. In fact, while backcountry fishing, the advice is to focus on the magnificent surroundings and overall experience rather than on inches and pounds of the fish you catch. All fishing techniques can be practiced during a backcountry fishing trip, but fly-fishing or spinning with light tackle are the most common options. The rule of thumb for backcountry fishing is that you’re limited in weight and size of your luggage, including the fishing gear. Therefore, you should probably pick the most versatile of your rods and lures, and focus on technique rather than choice of flies or spinners. Safety is paramount during a backcountry fishing trip. Even when you’re out only for a short walk not far from home, it’s best to go with a trusted partner, carry an emergency kit that will support you for a couple of days, and a backup communication device. For the most remote adventures, which may find you competing for salmon with brown bears or fishing literally between a crocodile and a lion, you ought, and in some areas required by law, be accompanied by a registered guide. You may find backcountry fishing opportunities even in the most civilized countries, such as Ireland and France. It’s amazing how you can feel yourself alone in the universe just a short drive and a long walk away from buzzing metropolises and advanced techno hubs. But once you’ve been bitten by the bug of backcountry fishing, you will want to get farther and farther away from civilization. Locations like Alaska, the South Island of New Zealand, the Orange River in South Africa, or the Taymyr Peninsula in Russia (and many more) will offer an outstanding adventure that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.