For most young people starting out, directions to fish with a flyline may be too advanced. However, they are included for those that may have the resources, knowledge and experience to actually go out, fly cast and fish with proper fly fishing gear.

When fishing a water boatman pattern, noting the time of year is extremely important. There are two distinct ways to fish this pattern. In the spring water boatmen, hang out near the shore among the vegetation there. Using its oar-like legs, the water boatman can move quickly.

To fish the water boatman in the early spring, right after ice-off, stay close to shore. Cast the pattern right up to the shore vegetation and then retrieve your line with quick 5 to 10 cm pulls.

In the Fall, after the adults have mated, the females fly back to the lake and drop to the water. They then swim straight down to the bottom where they deposit their eggs. After this they swim back up to the surface.

When fishing a water boatman pattern at this time of year, use a quick sinking line. You will also need to construct a water boatman pattern that is made with material that floats (eg. foam or deer hair). Cast out your line and let a "belly" form in your line. Then retrieve in quick, 5 to 10 cm pulls. This will, at first, pull your fly down and then eventually up again.