We are not going into the intricacies of fly selection on the waterside just yet but suffice to say that the important factors are, in order of importance, size, shape then colour. So when choosing your first set of flies choose a few basic patterns (shapes) and make sure you get several in a range of sizes - 3 sizes is a good start.

Don't get just one of each - no good if you lose THE fly that is working. I recommend you get at least three in each size.

For patterns and sizes check the advice section for the type of fishing you are planning to do. Three or four basic patterns will cover most situations you are likely to encounter.

So you will want three flies in each of three sizes in at least three basic patterns - 27 flies all together.

For fishing dry flies you will probably need a floatant such as Gink to apply to the fly occasionally. This is especially so after you have caught a fish as your fly becomes coated in slimy stuff which causes it to sink.

With wet flies you need the opposite - a sinkant such as Xink to make sure the fly sinks through the surface film. Otherwise it might sit in the surface film and never get down to where the fish are.

When fishing upstream with nymphs on a river the take from a fish is barely perceptible and if you are not quick the fish will spit out the fly before you are even aware of it. With experience you can learn the signs of a take but in the meantime a strike indicator is a great help.

If planning to fish catch and release you should debarb your hooks by crimping down the barb with a pair of flat bladed pliers. This will make it easier to remove the hook.

You may find that after a while you will want to start tying your own flies. Don't expect to save a whole lot of money by doing it. But there is nothing more thrilling than catching a fish on a fly you have tied with your own hands. Not only that, you can make sure you have the right pattern in the right size for the sort of fishing you want to do.