In theory, fly-fishing is a simple sport: Pick a body of water, choose a fly-fishing rod, select your “fly” (or bait), tie a secure knot, cast your line and, hopefully, land a fish on the other end.

A good fly reel will last a lifetime and help bring countless fish to hand. Fly fishing at its most basic level is just another technique for catching fish. On a deeper level, it’s both a blood sport ...