Hi

I was wondering if anyone has successfully combined the two wonderful pursuits of flyfishing and bike touring. Any comments would be appreciated, equipment used, ways of carrying gear, trip reports etc.

Ulrich

Knew a Brit couple who were touring South America on an old GS. He had 2 what looked like rocket launchers, but were clearly fishing rod holders, one on each side of the bike, pointing forward, but not impeading stearing.
HTH
ChrisB

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I've done this a couple of times in northern Scotland on my XT600E, fishing for Brown Trout on lochs, somtimes close to road, sometimes a mile or so walk in. No big problems carrying gear. The rod was in a piece of cut down plastic drain pipe lashed to the rear carrier. I used a small landing net - you may have seen them - a bit like a small tennis racquet on an elastic cord. Main problem is deciding on footwear and a coat. You can't really take waders and normal riding boots are no good for a long walk in. Last time I rode in medium heavy walking boots with knee heigh gaiters. Warm and high enough for ankle protection. As for the coat - motorbike jackets are a bit heavy - can you get a pertex (light showerproof nylon - very thin) jacket in green and wear it over a sweater or fleece jacket? I dont use the standard quilted liner that came with my bike jacket. I zip it out and use a fleece jacket which is handy about the campsite/fishing etc.It's a bit like anything else on a bike. You have to compromise on what you can take. Therefore for me - 1 rod, I reel with a floating and a slow sinking line. When picking your rod/line combination remember it has to handle everything from flat calm to strong winds - more compromise! A basic set of flies, mainly wet, and the small net, plus small bottles of sinkant, floatant etc. It's amazing how much of that "essential" shiny new kit you don't really need. Oh - never forget your fly repellent - I assume you have biting flies where you live.This all fitted on board with tent etc. Noting the small amount of clothing you can carry, you may have to limit your fishing depending on weather etc. Hope this helps.