If I stick a fly, wet or dry, on the end of regular mono line, with a regular spinning rod, and plain old spinning reel, am I "fly fishing"?
NO
Let's agree to disagree on that point.
A spinner is just a metallic fly.
It is not...it mimics a baitfish
Can't argue with that, but don't certain flies imitate baitfish also? Where does one draw the line?
I say expand your repertoire to include all types of effective techniques. Don't limit yourself to a particular line, reel, rod, or combination thereof. There are times when metallic flies (aka hardware) will outfish hair/fur flies 10 to 1, just as roe has its time and place.
I can say with relative confidence that most fly guys have "been there, done that" and that we have chosen to pursue the art of angling the fly not because it is easy, but because it continues to be a challenge and taxes the curious mind who believes he can steal the palm of victory from nature herself...(see Xuexis)
Our pursuit isn't driven by the deisre to "outfish" other methods, we readily admit that we are often (but not always...ask CJR) outfished by bait etc.
Sorry slightly off topic rant there, directed at the "fly only" s̶c̶h̶m̶u̶c̶k̶s̶ gentlemen.
I assume the strikethrough to imply levity in a manner...my reply is, if, as you claim, this is merely rhetorical you would not have shown your true sentiments by using such terminology...
We wish you continued success in your endeavours, employing whatever means brings you greatest gains and pleasure...we will likewise.
Yes everyone should angle however they enjoy best, whilst I would encourage those new to the sport to become learned in a variety of techniques, ultimately the best technique is the one that gives you the most fun.
And you're correct in one assertion...that indeed this is off topic...rather than a call for proselytizing and feeling defensive, the topic under investigation was an "alternative to the centerpin."
best
cc
