Betok can be caught using the fly fishing technique.
Fly fishing is often linked with trout streams in beautiful mountain or wooded creek settings, but you can use these techniques in other places too.
One unique challenge is fly fishing for climbing perch, or betok, in our local irrigation canals or padi fields.
While traditional methods, such as bamboo poles with single lines or the rod-and-reel set-up, are popular, fly fishing offers an exciting alternative that requires skill, precision and a light touch.
When going after climbing perch, the lightest fly fishing gear works best. Paired with a matching line, a fly rod in the 0-3 weight range is ideal for these small fish that are usually 12-18cm long.
Spotting a betok surfacing, anticipating its movement and placing the fly ahead of where the fish is expected to move next can be an exciting challenge.
The reel should be light and simple since climbing perch takes little time and drag-testing runs. Use a 2lb test leader to keep your set-up sensitive and in control.
Betok are opportunistic feeders and especially drawn to small insects and worms.
That is why size 18 dry flies are perfect. The best patterns include black ants, red ants and worm flies.
These flies mimic the natural prey of climbing perch and effectively draw them to the surface.
Size 18 dry flies can be a perfect “bait” for betok.
Casting for betok in padi fields or narrow canals needs accuracy and a gentle touch. The goal is to land the fly softly on the water without scaring the fish.
When fishing, one must pay attention to the water surface to watch out for the betok movements.
Climbing perch are known for their ability to come up for air and this trait offers fly anglers a visual clue to their presence. Spotting a betok surfacing and anticipating its movement by placing the fly just ahead of where the fish is anticipated to move next adds a layer of strategy and excitement.
When the fly lands correctly, it mimics the natural fall of an insect onto the water, tempting the betok to strike.
The key to successful fly fishing for betok is precision.
Nothing to stop a betok from taking the fly, which mimics the natural fall of an insect onto the water.
Fly fishing for betok is unique compared to traditional methods. It requires an understanding of casting dynamics and fish behaviour.
The art of fly placement and light tackle make for an exhilarating experience.
Using a bamboo pole with a single line or a simple rod-and-line set-up in traditional fishing has merits.
These techniques are straightforward and effective, especially for those familiar with the water.
The lightest fly fishing gear works best for climbing perch fishing.
A bamboo pole’s simplicity allows for easy handling and quick deployment, making it accessible for anglers of all skill levels.
However, fly fishing for betok requires understanding casting dynamics and fish behavior. It’s an exhilarating experience, emphasising the art of fly placement and light tackle.
It demands more skill, patience and strategy and attention, turning fishing into a more refined and thoughtful practice.
For those seeking a new adventure or looking to hone their fly-fishing skills, targeting betok is an enjoyable and rewarding pursuit.
