Why Keep a Fish Log

Now substantially improved and simplified

Fly is addictive. Once you start, you\'ll never stop. Whether you are going to the local water hole or to Canada, you should use a fishing journal to keep track of your sessions.

Fish Logging / Stats 

Fishing is more than just fishing, it’s a peaceful, surreal activity. For many, there is almost a meditative quality to casting. For avid fisherman. Keeping a Log will let you remember them as the years pass.

A good fishing log combines a number of characteristics. First, it should be compact. Second, it should have a water-resistant pages and a case to protect it from the elements. Third, the log should contain blank areas to write your notes. Fourth, the log should contain cue spaces to remind you to keep notes on specific things. Cues should include:

1. Who you went fishing with 
2. The weather conditions
3. The fishing conditions
4. The flies you used, what worked and what didn’t
5. What you caught
6. Lodging and places to eat

As time passes, your fly fishing journal can be used as:

1. A guide for you or friends that return the same location
2. Information on gear and flies to take
3. Memories to reflect upon years later
4. Something to pass on to your children and grandchildren.

Keeping a fishing log only requires a few minutes of writing. You can fill it out on the ride home or during a break. As time passes, your journal will become a collection of incredibly valuable fly fishing information. Imagine the look on a friend’s face after they mention going on a trip and you whip out your log for the spot!