Casting Across Fly Fishing

This episode drifted. And while I'd like to say that is a clever fly fishing pun, it wouldn't be super appropriate because this week we're talking about retrieving flies. The original outline was about all kinds of retrieves, but as I talked about what was most effective I kept returning to one simple truth: slower retrieves usually catch more trout. Fast retrieves do have a place in the skill set of the angler. But when you're fishing to animals that are used to seeing frogs, minnows, and crayfish do one thing over and over again there is wisdom in sticking with the routine. I discuss that, along with some tips on what to do with your hands and what not to do with your fly rod. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Okay, in reality it is presented in more of a "toe to head" fashion. And, please hear me on this, you can wear all the wrong things and still catch more than anyone dressed in all the finest outdoor clothing available. All that said, there is wisdom in wearing the clothes that can keep you comfortable as the weather is in a transitory phase. Not only is it relatively simple to source said garments, but it is clear that being properly outfitted does help with comfort and focus. Hear about everything from socks to hats for spring fly fishing this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What makes a fly a fly? How much money do you need to spend on a fly rod? What level of risk should you take when going fishing? In one way or another, I address all three of these questions on today's podcast episode. And while I'm very much interested in all three debates, I'm simply responding to some very good emails and comments I've received on Casting Across lately. As always, thank you for reading, listening, watching, and reaching out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are a lot of benefits to hiring a guide. They show you new water, put you on fish, and teach you new skills. One of the less exciting facets is the focus they bring to your fishing; less exciting, but incredibly helpful. Today I talk about some of the  aspects of fly fishing that I help others focus on while on the water (that is the + in the title). But it is just as  important to consistently remind yourself of them while casting and presenting flies over the course of a long day. These four  simple  concepts are good reminders for  experienced anglers, and they're ways you can guide along those you're  introducing to fly fishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some of the flashiest fly fishing gear is undoubtedly very, very nice. But it isn't necessary. If you're just starting out or you're operating with a limited budget, there are some pieces of equipment that will vie for your attention. While each person has different parameters and priorities I think that some purchases are better than others for those aforementioned angler demographics. Today I walk through four alternative options for spending your hard earned money on fishing gear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some people only fish dry flies. Others throw streamers exclusively. And then there are those who have gone all in on Euro nymphing. Every one of those approaches will catch fish. More importantly, you can enjoy your time on the water utilizing each method immensely. My only advice? Don't give up on throwing nymphs with traditional gear too soon. This week I'm sharing three practical ways to improve your nymphing skills with the gear you already have. With some practice and some technique, you can gain a lot of confidence in what your fly is doing down in the unseen depths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you don't have kids, don't skip this episode. The reason? Kids are people. So while I'm certainly framing the content in the context of working with youth, the principles will apply to anyone you want to make into an angler. Although sometimes just taking a kid fishing is enough to get them into the sport, there are some things you can do to make it a more enjoyable and accessible experience. With a slightly more complicated set of mechanics, this certainly applies to taking a kid fly fishing. Today I'm talking about three things I've done with my kids and other young people I've worked with. They aren't foolproof, but I can guarantee all will enjoy giving it a shot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who doesn't like getting a trophy? While "best in show" awards draw the ire of people who like to complain (Complainers? In fly fishing?!? Egad...), these lists are great for everyday anglers to see what is new and notable in angling gear. Today I walk through a half dozen Consumer Choice Awards recipients from The Fly Fishing Show's 2025 slate. I talk about everything from $1,000 fly rods to tiny packs of hackle. If you are shopping for new equipment, or if you are simply interested in what is out there in the fly shops, this list is worth a peek. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may be the kind of angler who can pony up $70,000 for a tricked out fly fishing rig. Or you might be a Toyota Camry kind of guy. Both work. But today I'm talking more to the sedan and station wagon crowd. Even if you don't have the kind of vehicle that they feature in outdoorsy commercials, you can tailor your ride to make fly fishing a little easier. Your car won't help you cast or pick flies. But being organized, prepared, and safe all go into the overall angling equation. Check out the practical tips in this short episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're all busy. Some are busier than others, but everyone has their own busy. And one consistent thing is that any kind of busy usually interferes with fly fishing. Once people find out about my kind of busy (having 5 kids, serving as a pastor,  etc.), I get asked "how do you go fly fishing?" They're not asking about technique or fly selection. They want to know how I fit it in. Today I share five things that are helpful in fitting fly fishing into your busy life. They might not all work for you and your situation, but I've found all to be helpful in one way or another. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, I know that people like finding and catching wild trout... but I was still quite surprised when this article blew up as much as it did. Casting Across was glowing red hot from all the online traffic a post generated this week. I'm not sure what I did right (or wrong), and I don't think I'm going to ask too many questions. Regardless, there is a good chance you're new to the site and the podcast because of it: so welcome! Today I explore the three pieces of research that go into my wild trout pioneering. They're not radical or complicated, but they're effective. As I talk about them and share a handful of anecdotes, I hope you're encouraged to go out and find some wild fish where "there's no fish there." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How should you think about fly reel acquisition? Should you buy the best? Should you buy the least expensive thing that will hold line? Should you skip the headache of such questions and aim towards the center? While I don't begrudge anyone who wants a premium, machined reel or the angler who is content with gear made of plastic, I do have a recommendation for an option that will give you more for less money. More what? More fishing. More fishing options, specifically. Figure out what I'm talking about, and hear my rationale, in this week's podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every once in a while I do get a legitimate accusation. Recently I was called out for platforming high-end, pretentious fly fishing equipment. While I don't want to eliminate your anticipation for what this might have looked like, I do think it is important to mention that a quick email exchange brought swift resolution. Still, you should listen to this week's episode to hear what I'm talking about. And, before you get to that, you'll hear me discuss beginner fly tying and online fly fishing auctions. As always, thanks for your questions, comments, and accusations that make these episodes - and Casting Across - special. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are plenty of all-inclusive fly fishing adventures that only require you to pay and show up. Such experiences are probably quite exquisite... and quite expensive. But even if you are able to afford such fineries, you'll get more out of your fly fishing trip if you take a few things  with you. Today I'll talk about those things. Some are physical items that are worth packing. Others are expectations. And, as you might imagine, having the latter list in order is just as important as organizing the former. This is the third of three podcasts focused on fly fishing trips. Hopefully these ideas can be a help if you're going on your first or 101st angling outing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So you've made plans to go fly fishing. Not just a few hours at the local pond; not just the better part of a day at the river. You're going on a fly fishing trip. How do you prepare? Do you buy any and every fly that might be hatching? Do you do your best to not think about it so that the time doesn't drag on  and the doldrums of normal life become painful compared to the coming angling glory? On the heels of last week's episode, I glance over some of the things that are wise to consider as you move from the planning stage to the preparing stage. You can do some things that will make  real difference once you make your first cast on your trip. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adventure can be had simply by heading into the wild or booking a stay at the first deluxe lodge that pops up on Google. But there is a better way. And many anglers I've talked to wish they had adjusted their fishing vacation plans slightly early on in their time chasing trout. Today's podcast is another installment in the Cast1 series. Although it is directed more towards new fly fishers, there is information that anyone should consider. Moreover, it is the kind of thing worth sharing with other anglers in your life. Plus, you might be interested to hear that of all my priorities when planning a fly fishing trip money isn't at the top. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the most amazing things about fly fishing is that the vast majority of our gear works great 100% of the time without paying any attention to it. One of the most frustrating things about fly fishing is when your gear suffers a catastrophic failure while you're on the water. I'm not saying that routine maintenance will avert all disaster. But it doesn't increase the odds; it certainly diminishes them. Today I walk through the relatively simple process than anyone with a tiny amount of mechanical know-how can follow to keep their reel running smoothly and ready for the upcoming season. I also offer up some of my routine fly line PSAs while I'm at it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As both a presenter and a participant, I spent the better part of two weekends at The Fly Fishing Show this January. On today's episode, I give a recap of my experiences and highlight a few things that stood out to me from the Show. I do talk about a few products that are brand new for this season; including two great fly rods. Also, I share a few reflections from my presentations as well as some of the presentations that I attended.  And, once again, I talk about what I think you ought to do to get the most of your trip to an outdoor show. While the MA and NJ stops of The Fly Fishing Show are over for 2025, there are still 5 more events this season! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It has been a long time since I've covered a destination. And the dead of winter is as good as it gets when it comes to talking about travel. On one hand, it is fun to daydream about trout when it is frigid outside. It is also a great time to start putting plans together to make a few trips. But in the case of this week's area of focus, you could actually head there and fish dries today. And it isn't a tailwater down south. It is in the heart of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and parts of Iowa and Illinois. I give a quick synopsis of why you should fish the Driftless. And to put a fine point on it, I tack on an apologetic for the Pink Squirrel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 6-weight rod that you already own will work. It will work really well. You'll be able to catch smallies and have a blast doing it. But there are some drawbacks to a lighter rod. If you want to cast all the bass flies, if you want to cast for distance, or if you want to cast some versatile lines, you're going to need a bigger rod. If you have found yourself hitting this wall on your local pond or you've decided that warmwater fish are this season's goal, check out some of the preliminary recommendations and suggestions in this week's episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The real title of this episode is much, much longer. But you'll have to listen to hear what it is. That said, today is all about making some small changes to preparing, casting, and presenting your fly that will pay off significantly. I don't often promise that my advise will immediately lead to more fish... but refining these tactics will absolutely lead to more fish. We all have areas where we can improve as anglers, and it is encouraging to know that there are some small areas of refinement that take a little bit of effort but will yield real benefits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love questions about fly rods. And you love questions about fly rods. Guess what two of the three questions on today's Q&A podcast pertain to? Along with this fan-favorite topic, I discuss downsizing. Yes, there is a time and place to get rid of things. Even fly fishing things. In just under 25 minutes, I cover these three pieces of listener feedback along with my normal segments: what appeared on Casting Across this week and a recommendation. Plus, I drop some subtle hints on exciting content in the near future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Merry (early) Christmas from Casting Across! Along with sharing some exciting news for the upcoming year, I return to a holiday tradition that has been a part of the podcast for a handful of seasons. It isn't exactly my reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, but I think you will appreciate the selection even more than that classic. Also, please send in your questions, comments, and accusations for inclusion on an upcoming podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Try as you might, you can't fish without knots. And just like a spelling test, you have no excuse to not do well. You can practice them until you fingers go numb. Today I'm running through my favorite knots from fly to backing. There may very well be better knots out there, but these have served me well under varied scenarios in two decades of fly fishing. But only start here. Head online and check out some diagrams and helpful animations to help put these knots into practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter if you're a beginner or an expert, there are ways to improve your efficiency on the water. Now if that sounds clinical and not at all cohesive with the artistic flair that accompanies fly fishing, bear with me. Efficiency is all about being able to to what you want to do when you want to do it. Today I walk through three things that anyone can do to gain a greater understanding of the equipment and technique that everyone needs to enjoy angling. The best part? Nothing is expensive, complicated, or exclusive. Anyone can do it. And there is a good chance - I'd say a great chance that you have already dipped your toe in each of these three things. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a lot to be thankful for. This is a universal truth, but is especially applicable for fly fishers. Today I walk through a handful of things most fly fishers are (or should be) thankful for. But first, I dive into some gifts that are the kind of thing that you could (or should) give to anyone this holiday seeing. And, as I discuss, both giving gifts and being appreciative of the gifts we have been given are wonderful opportunities the season presents. Happy Thanksgiving from Casting Across. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A random errand led to my being face-to-face with a $20 fly rod/reel/line combo. It even came with flies. Around me, people were shopping for car batteries and Barbie dolls. I examined the reel. I assessed the flies. I debated scanning the QR code on the package. It wasn't for me, but it didn't look half bad for a $20 Wal-Mart fly fishing rig. For everyone who starts their fly fishing life off with the Orvis silver spoon in their mouth, there are probably a few others who get after it with department store gear. Who is to say who catches more fish on that first trip out? Today I talk a little bit about the place that inexpensive gear plays in the fly fishing world. It might not be for you, but remember that it might have been at one time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the complicated system required for fly fishing that is man and equipment, your wrist might be the most fickle. For the same reason it is an incredibly flexible and dexterous joint it can lead your cast very, very astray. While the best way to straighten out your casting woes is to practice, today I share a few wrist-related issues that may lead to problems. And problems like reduced line speed and increased fatigue are worth ironing out if possible. Hopefully these 20 minutes will spark some interest into making some small changes that will payoff big time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can spend a lot of money on a boat for your fly fishing endeavors. There's the cost of the craft itself, then the trailer, then the accessories, then the truck to pull it more efficiently... While I've enjoyed the quality drift boats, skiffs, and bass rigs I've fished from over the years, the vast majority of my time on the water has been in smaller crafts. And I think they suit me just fine. Today I'm talking about easy watercraft. Easy to acquire, easy to transport, and easy to use. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

None of us should be so set in our ways that we're unable to be pried out of the groove we've worn. In fly fishing, in particular, we should not be so entrenched in opinions that we're dogmatic. It is good to have an opinion. But opinions can change. Today I share 5 opinions that I've held and changed over my fly fishing years. There are plenty more. But these five hit the highlights: gear, trout, and conservation. Take a listen, and then consider how you have changed your mind. Or, and this might be happening right now: how you might be currently in the process of changing your mind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know that is a presidential election year?!? Since I think the "rule" to avoid talking about money, religion, and politics is stupid, I talk about politics today on the podcast. But I think you'd agree that it is more philosophical than partisan. And it has to do with fly fishing. I promise. And just so you feel like you're getting your money's worth, I also add in a quick gear tip in the beginning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I do miss things from time to time. And on this episode I come clean about missing two important things. You've probably survived, but I need to make it right. On another feedback-based episode, I answer questions about the following: Beginner vises Expensive sunglasses Why I don't have more video content Check out those segments, along with a really excellent weekly recommendation, on this week's podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the passing of a great author, something much more significant is lost than a new title every few years. First and foremost a man is gone. Beyond that, the fly fishing world has lost a voice. Today I reflect a bit on Gierach's impact on the fly fishing world. From adding popular phrases to spurring on countless imitators, he moved generations of anglers in many ways. At the heart of it all is the fact that he was a consistent voice for anglers across five decades. Consistency, especially today, matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is an overflow of this week. On the website I've focused on the region that has been most impacted by Hurricane Helene, and I'm going to continue to do so on the podcast. Even though southern Appalachia is remote and wild, it is incredibly close to so the vast majority of those who live along the eastern seaboard. That happens to be a large number of this country's people. This is why the mountains and hollows are accessible and loved by so many. This is also why the relative silence about their present plight is confusing. This podcast isn't going to change anything. But people can. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not all of you are hunters. That is fine. But within the first five minutes of the podcast I have some real, practical advice for how anglers who don't hunt have a legitimate opportunity for better fishing if they are aware of the hunting seasons. That, and a piece of advice on how to not get shot. In this week's episode, I discuss the wonderful dilemma of "to hunt or to fish or to do both" that we encounter in the autumn. There are a few anecdotes, some gear recommendations, and a handful of questions I pose for you to answer for yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the realm of Casting Across, visual media serves the written and spoken word. Still, a nice picture helps. Today, I talk through some things that are important to consider as you photograph your fly fishing. From gear to approach to subject matter, I hit on some tips that might make your camera roll or your social media profile a little more interesting. Plus, on the heels of "Releasing Fish Well," this is a reminder that the fish are a lot more important than likes. But you still can take mementos with you as they swim away happy and healthy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've managed to get on the water. You've figured out how to get the fly in front of a fish. You've somehow convinced it to bit said fly. You've fought it your your hand or net. Now what? If you're interested in the common practice of catch and release, there are some things that are good to do. (They're even better for the fish.) In this beginner-focused episode, I actually begin what releasing well involves long before you catch a fish. Some of these steps might be common sense. Others might sound odd. Regardless, this is helpful for anglers of all experience levels to know and to be able to communicate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rightfully so, many consumers think that marketing is out to divide them from their hard earned money. Consequently, most hype surrounding new or novel innovations is received with a fair amount of skepticism. But what if some of these features are more than gimmicks? Today I'm sharing four products with design or function elements that I have heard people call "gimmicky." While I don't think any are worth paying exorbitantly more for, I do think they have their merits. Listen as I walk through each and give reasons why you may very well consider adding such a piece of equipment to your collection... or even your main rotation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Countless tourists head to coastal New England cities, towns, and remote coastlines every year. Trust me: I sit behind you as I try to get around during my normal day-to-day. With around 6,000 miles of coastline, there is room for all of us. And there is just that much more room for stripers, bluefish, and a number of other species that will gladly chase a fly. On today's podcast, I give a high level overview of fly fishing the New England states. With apologies to landlocked Vermont, I touch on some general things that will get you looking in the right direction as you either plan a fishing trip or plan on tagging some fishing on your family vacation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The vast majority of your dry fly presentations ought to be made upstream, with you standing slightly to one side of the fish. This optimizes your cast, your mending, and your hook set. But what if you can't do that? What if there is a fish that is downstream, under cover, and slurping bugs off the surface with wanton slovenliness? What then? Do you miss out and chalk it up to the "rules" of dry fly fishing? Do you go home, bested by the trout to which you did not cast? There is good news. You can cast downstream to rising fish using a dry fly. And although it isn't optimal, you should know how to do it. And today I'm talking about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, I'm breaking with tradition for this one. I'm not calling it "Fly Fishing Accusations XXX."  That said, there are some interesting segments in this episode. I get a little fired up about how people feel the need to police the fishing gear designed to solve problems. I also circle back to fallfish, tenkara, and remote fishing ethics. Standard fare, if you've been around here long enough. As always, thanks for listening and writing in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

300 episodes. That, my friends, is a lot of my digitized voice out there on the internet. Today I'm breaking free from my rigid, one-note format. I've got a guest. In fact, I have the most special of special guests. My wife of 21+ years. Her perspectives on nearly every topic are worth listening to - take it from me. That said, enjoy this podcast. And it goes without saying at this point: Thank you. Thanks for listening, reading, and being part of Casting Across as I hit this milestone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In case you've been living under a rock (like a caddis nymph, perhaps), I'm going to be the bearer of bad news and inform you that fly fishers have the reputation of being quite the opinionated group of individuals. And as the maxim states, opinions are like... well, they're like waders that have been sitting in the trunk too long. We've all got them and they have the potential of stinking. My purpose isn't to simply offer counter-arguments. It is to point out the unnecessary nature of some of the more prevalent antagonistic perspectives in fly fishing. Let that last cause sink in for a second: prevalent antagonistic perspectives in fly fishing. The fact that such things exist is reason enough to talk and think about them for 20 minutes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

*Trigger Warning* I know some people have Tenkara Derangement Syndrome. Breathe deeply, you'll get through this. Whether you've dabbled in this Japanese style of angling or not, it has made a modest splash in the American fly fishing scene. Depending on where and how you fish, it may be a good fit for your gear collection. Although only a fraction of my time on the water includes using Tenkara gear, I've come to appreciate it for some special circumstances. Today I share what a few of those are, and why you might consider picking up one of these small, versatile rods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I wouldn't say that I get too worked up about what people say in and around fly fishing. But the extreme ends of gear perspectives bug me. One says that the most expensive gear is the only way to go. The other says that whatever you can find is all that you need. As is the case with most situations, the moderate middle wins the day. Today I'm taking through how a recent shift in how I shop for running shoes has reminded me that taking a moment to do some real research can have a significant impact on your time and comfort. And time and comfort ultimately translate into more, better shots at fish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a good chance that you have some habits when it comes to approaching certain types of water. After a few decades of pursuing brookies, browns, and cutthroats in mountain streams I have developed a simple little scheme for identifying what they're keying in on. Today I share the three dry flies I use to decipher how to get on the most and the biggest trout. It isn't foolproof and there are certainly exceptions. That said, it has produced above average results and taken out a lot of guesswork for me. And, I don't have to carry multiple fly boxes while I'm miles into the woods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Independence Day from Casting Across! On today's episode, I'm sharing a tangentially-related collection of topics. While I do discuss giving trout some space in the hottest weather, the bulk of the podcast is about the great situation we find ourself in the United States. Things aren't perfect. They're far from it. But that is the human condition, after all. That said, our angling opportunities and access here are exceptional. We have that foundation to build on, so we shouldn't squander it by not engaging in free speech together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thousands of aquarium aficionados concerned about the stress levels of their tropical fish can't be wrong. And from an anecdotal angling perspective, I agree with them. You can gain insight into what a fish is going to do by watching it's body language. While it isn't an empirical exercise, there are some tells in fish behavior that can clue you in as to when to keep going, change tactics, or just keep on moving. I cover a handful of observations in this episode. As usual, there are countless resources on this and hopefully these 20 minutes will pique your interest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm not being dramatic. Nor am I being flippant. You can truly get yourself in some serious moral peril while fly fishing. Waist deep in moving water miles away from other people? Yes, it is fun. But yes, it is not without risks. Today I cover four areas of danger worth thinking about as you head outside. They may be common sense or well known to you, but they also might not be. If that is the case for just one listener, it is worth it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back with another entry in the Cast1 series. Today, the discussion is all about small stream fly fishing. For many, pulling up to a tiny cascading creek is the epitome of an angling adventure. But until you've had that experience, the idea of fishing in a veritable trickle might not only be intimidating; it might seem ridiculous. While there is so much to share regarding this topic, this episode covers some of the most essential aspects of getting a lot out of little water. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices