Fly Fish University

It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast!Today we're talking about how heat waves and wildfires have a detrimental effect on trout fisheries, in some ways that you might not expect... enjoy!>> ENTER the Summertime Giveaway HERE!

Chinook salmon are undoubtedly one of the most sought after, and the most enjoyable species to chase in freshwater for a reason!In this episode of the Fly Fish University Podcast, we talk three crucial tips for chasing Chinook salmon on the fly!Click here to grab a copy of 7 Steps to Fly Fishing Success for FREE!See you on the other side, Jordan

Finding and catching trophy trout on a regular basis is FUN, but it isn't easy!In today's episode of the Fly Fish University Podcast, I share a special recording of a presentation I was able to do for anglers around the world on approaching trophy trout fisheries. I hope you love it, and I hope to see you inside the Fly Fish University Mastery Membership!

We love when luck is on our side, but relying on luck alone is not a great strategy for choosing flies that catch fish!On today's special episode of the Fly Fish University Podcast, we share a lesson that was taught inside of the Trout Fishing Accelerator Workshop on helping you master the art of fly selection. CLICK HERE to register for the FREE Accelerator Workshop!See you on. the other side, Jordan

This episode of Q&A Friday answers whether mesh or rubber fly fishing nets are advantageous over one another!If you've fly fished for anytime, you know the importance of having a great fly fishing net! This episode shares my opinions on some of the pros and cons of rubber vs mesh baskets in fly fishing nets.>> Register for the Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop HERE!Jordan

In this episode, I am sharing with you the 5 biggest lessons and takeaways I learned from the biggest trout I've ever caught. JOIN the Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop by clicking right here!Lessons:1. Persistence pays off2. Research your fisheries3. Fish with certainty4. Understand trout behaviour5. Enjoy the process!See you on the other side!Jordan

Accumulating a TON of flies is easy... keeping them all organized is another ball game!In today's episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast, we're talking how to organize your fly boxes so that you are organized and on top of it when it comes to quickly finding exactly what fly you need, and making packing for fishing trips a breeze!JOIN the Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop here!Enjoy today's episode,Jordan

If you're finding trout fishing frustrating on any level, this episode is for you!Why did you get into fly fishing? My guess is not to spend a ton of time and money to end up confused, frustrated and not catching fish. Fly fishing is supposed to be FUN - it is not supposed to be a constant grind in which we guess our way through each day on the water...CLICK HERE to join the Trout Fishing Accelerator Workshop!

If you've ever wondered how often you should, or shouldn't be changing flies, then this very short episode is for you!This is a short video that I shot a few days ago on the water, answering one of the most common questions we get inside of FFU!Click HERE f you'd like to grab a FREE copy of my book '7 Steps to Fly Fishing Success'!Enjoy!

Changes in barometric pressure can be incredibly challenging, and counteracting it starts with a strategy!Fishing through large changes in barometer, whether it is going from high pressure to low pressure or low pressure to high pressure, can DEFINITELY put fish off the bite. In this episode, I share my #1 strategy for fishing through large changes in barometric pressure... enjoy!

Have you ever wanted to know when to fish a tapered leader, and when to just fish a piece of straight tippet?Tapered leaders and level pieces of tippet both have their time and place, and knowing the when and why to fish them is incredibly important. This episode of the Fly Fish University Podcast is going to help you with just that... enjoy!

"Is it possible to make a living in fly fishing?"It's Friday morning, and that means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast!In today's episode, I answer young Carson's inquiry on the possibilities of having a successful career in fly fishing, and first defining what that truly means. I share some of the ups, downs and hurdles I've experienced since I started my career at 17 years old as a fly shop employee. Enjoy!

If you've ever wanted to know how to build a basic level chironomid leader, this bite-sized episode is just for you!I actually recorded this live from the water a few days ago, and in this episode I cover a very simple, very actionable way to build a level chironomid leader. This does not require a tapered leader of any sort, just some 8lb and 6lb fluoro, some 15lb mono, a strike indicator of your choice, a small barrel swivel, and of course your favourite chironomid imitation.Enjoy today's episode, click here for the full video!

Catch more fish in shallow water on stillwaters by understanding how to use the "emergency exit" strategy.Fish LOVE to feed, but above all else they need to survive! It's how they're wired, and being that they are not at the top of the food chain they have a number of predators to keep on the lookout for. The simple strategy of finding the emergency exits on a piece of shallow water will allow you to intercept fish as they are coming on or off the flat, ultimately increasing the number of fish you are going to catch!Watch the latest adventure here on YouTubeJordan

Today's episode of Q&A Friday discusses THREE fly fishing items that I do not leave home without!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast! Today's question is super popular, and it reads something like this: "I'm shopping for a fly fishing fanatic, and have no idea what to get them". This episode contains three fly fishing items that are a great gift idea, and also a great idea if you are just making a list for your next trip to the fly shop. Listen or watch this episode below on the device of your choice, and wishing you the best on the water!

Do bright flies catch more fish on bright days?The adage of 'bright skies, bright flies' has rung true for many anglers over the years. The philosophy states that bright, sunny, clear days are best met with fly choices that offer shinier bodies and ribbing materials. Enjoy today's episode on the topic of bright skies, bright flies!

2XL? 2XS? 1XH? What do these mean? It's all covered in today's episode of Q&A Friday!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast! Today we're uncovering some of the terminology around hooks used in fly tying and fly fishing, and what some of these terms mean that can sometimes be confusing to anglers.Listen or watch this episode below on the device of your choice, and wishing you the best on the water!

What on earth is a 'blob' and why should you fish them?Before we go TOO far, you can still grab the remaining two lessons from Phil Rowley and I's 'Stillwater Ice-Off Tactics' free mini-course HERE. You will learn ice-off fishing tactics, ice-off equipment and our TOP 20 patterns for fishing the pre-turnover window. Moving on...What are blob flies and why should you fish them?Originated in the UK, blob patterns are incredibly effective both as an attractor and as an imitative pattern when fish are keyed in on micro-organisms like Daphnia (Zooplankton). There was a time when we would curse the presence of Daphnia, but thanks to blob flies we are able to routinely catch fish when fish are keyed in on them. Find it all and more in today's episode below... enjoy!

Outfitting your watercraft with anchors that are the proper size, weight and shape is mission criticalThere is nothing more frustrating than getting blown off anchor in windy conditions, especially when there is great fishing to be had. Constantly repositioning your boat cuts into time, fun, and simply putting fish in the net!Today's episode discusses a useful formula that anybody can use when it comes to outfitting your aluminum boat with an anchor that is going to keep you put when you're fishing a productive piece of mud. >> Join Phil Rowley and I's FREE upcoming 'Ice Off Stillwater Tactics' mini-course!

3 situations in which leeches are deadly effective in fly fishing stillwaters.Leech patterns are undeniably productive in lakes, and this episode explains three situations in which they are a viable option to tie on. 1) Ice-Off: Immediately after the ice leaves the lake, fish will be keyed in on staple food sources in shallow water. Alongside leeches, they will be gorging themselves on shrimp, boatmen and chironomid larvae.2) Early Morning: If you're a chironomid enthusiast, you know that sitting and waiting for the dinner bell to sound. Sometimes this isn't until noon, and fishing your way through the morning in shallow water with leeches before moving to deep water is a great way to spend the first few hours of the day. 3) Post-Hatch: Fish will often gorge on leeches to cap down a large chironomid feed. Switching up when the chironomid bite slows will often buy you an extra hour (or many) of good fishing. >> Join Phil Rowley and I's FREE Ice-Off Stillwater Tactics mini course here!

A quick rundown of a great rod, reel and line pairing for chironomid fishing on stillwaters.As we know already, so much of your success in stillwater fly fishing comes down to your equipment. It doesn't have to be fancy, but it does have to be suitable. Today's episode discusses my go-to setup for chironomid fishing on lakes. Rod - 966/4 Scott FlexReel - Ross Cimarron II 5/6Line - Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Stillwater IndicatorRegister for Phil Rowley and I's FREE upcoming mini-course 'Stillwater Ice-Off Tactics' here: https://www.stillwaterflyfishingacademy.com

Building your own tapered leaders is fun, rewarding and easier than you might think!If you've ever wanted to learn to build your own tapered leaders, then this episode is for you! First off, we need to look at 5 common mistakes that are too easy to make when it comes to your leader or tippet. The leader is too light, or too heavy (incorrect diameter)The leader is too short, or too long (incorrect length)The leader is improperly taperedLeader is not the most efficient material (fluorocarbon vs. monofilament)Leader has faulty connections, or is tied with the wrong knotsNow let's look at the actual taper of the leader, where we will use the 50/30/20 or 60/20/20 formula. This is the butt, middle and tip sections of the leader. Lastly, there are times which we will use 'level' leaders. Level leaders sink faster, and are used in situations in which turning over the leader isn't necessarily the most important factor. JOIN Fly Fish University before the doors close: https://www.flyfishuniversity.com/lifetime 

'I want to get into fly fishing but I am afraid it's too expensive'This is a question that almost EVERY fly shop employee gets asked at some point, and a valid one at that. But does fly fishing cost a lot of money?This is a very relative question. Asking if something costs a lot of money like asking 'how long is a piece of string?' or 'is spaghetti good?' Although it can be a tricky question to answer, there is one thing that's for sure: There has never been a better or easier time to get into fly fishing than 2021. Join Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop: https://www.flyfishuniversity.com/accelerator

Are you plagued by changing flies constantly, to the point where they don't even get a chance to fish properly before they're swapped out?Fly-change-itis is a real thing, and it's something that every angler experiences eventually in their fly fishing journey. It usually comes as a result of slow fishing, in which we get wrapped up in our own heads under the impression that it must just be the fly that isn't working. The truth is that (in most instances), often times it is the manner in which the fly is being presented that can make it or break it rather than just the fly itself. Leader length, tippet diameter, tippet material, retrieval speed, depth, these are just a few factors that have proven themselves worthy of consideration over the years. In today's episode of Fly Fish University TV and the Fly Fish University Podcast, we're talking some alternatives to simply changing the fly, as well as a few real life examples. Enjoy!

What are the best waders money can buy, why you should double anchor your boat, and why lake fishing often hits its peak mid-dayIt's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast and Fly Fish University TV! Today we're discussing the BEST waders you can get with money (in my opinion), why you should double-anchor your boat, and why lake fishing often peaks mid-day.Listen or watch this episode below on the device of your choice, and wishing you the best on the water!

BIG LAKES... they can be tricky, daunting, and a LOT of fun. Today's episode of Fly Fish University brings you 5 tips for fishing big lakes from shore successfully.Though there's a lot of area to cover on big lakes, and finding fish can be a challenge at times due to the fact that they could be anywhere, that's no reason to shy away from them. Though large water bodies can be intimidating, with a proper food source they can offer fish the ability to grow to immense sizes. As a fan of fishing big lakes in the early spring, here are 5 things I suggest to you. BEFORE WE GET GOING... don't forget to register for the (FREE) Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop on March 23, 24 & 25! Click here to grab a seatMOVING ON Break big lakes into smaller lakes - Don't pretend like you're going to tackle the whole thing in one day, find a way to get your brain to understand that a big lake can be seen as simple a series of smaller waterbodies all put together. Remember that so much of the water found in big lakes is not water we're going to target anyways. Find attractive shoreline structure - You want to look for areas that are going to be attractive to fish, those that offer ample backcasting room, and ideally allow you to put your presentation in a fishy zone without having to cast too far. Observe the gradient of the land around the shoreline, and draw an imaginary line into the water, This will allow you to position yourself closer to drop-offs and ledgesFish your flies with confidence - Just because you are on a large waterbody doesn't mean that you cannot fish small flies effectively. If you're trout fishing, remember that fish in a large waterbody will often hone in on the same food insects, invertebrates and baitfish that those in a smaller lake will be looking for as well, Research your food sources - Understand what fish are feeding on in these large waterbodies. Are there anadromous fish that lay eggs, which hatch into fry in the springtime, and does it play a part in the diet of the species you're targeting? Does the lake have a prolific insect population? A bit of research and observation can go a long ways.Don't be afraid to cover water - You are fishing a big lake, and often the scenario is very "here one day, gone the next". You need to be willing to move, hike, drive, portage, anything you can do to continually cover new water. And there you have it!

Fishing chironomids with confidence and patience, dry fly refusals, and why we see fighting butts on some single-handed rods.It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast and Fly Fish University TV! Today we're discussing HOW to fish chironomids (or any small flies) with immense confidence, what occurs when a dry fly refusal takes place, and why we see fighting butts on some single-handed fly rods. Listen or watch this episode below on the device of your choice, and wishing you the best on the water!

Too many fish are lost to poorly tied knots. Understand these 6 knots and how to tie them, and you'll have one less thing to worry about when you're hooked up to the fish of a lifetime.Knot tying is an intricate game, but just like tying your shoes or riding a bike, you can train yourself to reach a level of unconscious competence when it comes to tying knots that hold. The knots we discuss in this episode are:Improved ClinchNon-Slip Mono LoopDouble Surgeon's KnotBlood KnotPerfection LoopNail KnotLearning both how to tie these knots, and what their purposes are in different fishing applications, will allow you to ultimately have a better experience on the water. Grab our free knot tying mini-course hereANDRegister for our FREE Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop here!

Are fly line tapers important, can trout smell sunscreen, and what's the absolute perfect setup for trout fishing?It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast and Fly Fish University TV! Today we're discussing the importance of understanding your fly line taper, what would be a perfect trout rod if you could only pick one, and whether trout can smell sunscreen!CLICK HERE for Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop (FREE) Stillwater Fly Fishing Academy

Three common fly fishing mistakes and exactly what to do about them!Today's episode is exciting because these are three mistakes that are both super easy to make, and super easy to fix! Before we get too far in, ABSOLUTELY grab yourself a seat in the Fly Fishing Accelerator Workshop on March 23, 24 and 25 by clicking right here.OK - to the goods...The first mistake that's way too easy to make is buying fly fishing gear and equipment you don't really need, without knowing exactly why you need it and what its purpose is going to be. The second mistake is too spend far too much time changing flies, rather than focusing on switching up your presentation, the speed of your retrieve, and the minor details such as tippet length or diameter.The third mistake, and one that we are always working on, is not paying enough attention to the minuscule details on the water. The observant angler wins, and increasing the attention you pay to detail will pay massive dividends in fly fishing. Enjoy today's episode!

Exactly how heavy of tippet should you be fishing, what is the best line for chironomid fishing, and what is Brennan's secret euro leader setup!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast and Fly Fish University TV! Today we're discussing exactly how to determine what strength tippet you should be using, what lines are best for chironomid fishing, and what on earth Brennan discussed about his euro-nymphing leader from the previous episode.Attend Brennan's workshop HERE --> https://www.flyfishuniversity.com/movingwaters

Why are 10% of the anglers constantly catching 90% of the fish? KNOWLEDGE.If there is one thing that separates good anglers from great anglers, it is their ability to unconsciously weed out unproductive water and techniques. This allows them to spend more time fishing effective methods where fish actually reside...In today's episode, I am fortunate enough to discuss moving water tactics with my friend Brennan Lund, one of the most accomplished and effective river anglers I've ever met. Though he has fished professionally and competitively around the world, he needs no introduction. Enjoy today's episode!JOIN BRENNAN'S MOVING WATER MASTERY WORKSHOP HERE --> https://www.flyfishuniversity.com/movingwaters

Proper strike indicator selection for still and moving water, why the strip set is important, and how to join irregular tippets together!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast and Fly Fish University TV! Today we're discussing indicator selection for still and moving water, the when and why of strip setting vs. trout setting, and how to join tippets of irregular diameter together. Listen or watch this episode below on the device of your choice, and wishing you the best on the water!

Fly fishing doesn't have to require a lot of time or financial investment if you get the proper information and instruction right off the bat.At first, fly fishing was nothing short of a puzzle / trainwreck / dumpster fire for myself, but after a few years of slogging it out on my own I began noticing patterns in those that were successful on the water. If I had to go back to my younger self and teach them to fly fish, I would absolutely recommend these five pieces of advice. If you're new to fly fishing, I hope this serves you well:Seek your local fly shop for equipment purchases - Too many times, as a young fly shop employee, I would help a disappointed angler who had opted for a cheap fly rod kit they'd purchased from a big box store that was doing them more harm than good. Your local shop will point you in the right direction based on your skill level, and the areas/species which you spend the most time targeting. Take a casting lesson - As in golf, the best equipment in the world will not fix a faulty stroke. Building a solid foundation of casting skills and you will reap the rewards for the remainder of your fly fishing journey, in a wide variety of fishing scenarios. Book a guided trip - Gaining local, professional knowledge from a licensed guide is a great way to shorten your learning curve exponentially. One day with a knowledgeable guide can save you time, money, energy, and ultimately give you a greater sense of confidence in fly fishing.Study fish behaviour - What species are you pursuing, and how exactly do they behave? What are their predators, what are their prey, what sort of water do they like or dislike residing in? Understanding their behavioural tendencies will allow you to locate them more often when they are in feeding mode.Study insects and various food sources - The better you can understand the food sources you are trying to imitate, the easier it will be to fill your fly box with patterns that are going to catch fish on a consistent basis. Furthermore, you will gain a greater understanding of how these food sources behave in the water, determining the speed at which the fly should be retrievedBONUS: Enjoy every second and never hesitate to reach out to someone for help!Jordan

Choosing a watercraft for lake fishing, why one angler swears by the Prince Nymph, and the mental game of catching steelhead on the fly!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast and Fly Fish University TV! Today we're discussing inflatable vs. aluminum boats for lake fishing, why one angler swears by the Prince Nymph (rightfully so...), and the up and down game of chasing steelhead on the fly! Listen or watch this episode below on the device of your choice, and wishing you the best on the water!

What if you exactly knew where and when to fish on a routine basis? JOURNALS are the key to documenting your most important fly fishing data. At first, keeping a fly fishing journal seemed like kind of an odd thing to do. Wouldn't someone just be able to remember what they were using, or the highlights of a trip, without having to look back through their diaries?I found out quickly that journals were the answer when it came to narrowing down WHEN and WHERE to go, and began immediately shortening the amount of time I was spending planning each fishing trip. Some important things to journal:Date/LocationWater TempWater LevelBarometerHatchProductive Flies/TechniquesUnproductive Flies/TechniquesFish Hooked/Landed/ReleasedKey TakeawaysFor the price of a nice cup of coffee, you can download The Fly Fishing Journal and have access to a digital journal which you a) can't lose and b) will never have to replace!>> CLICK HERE to grab a copy!Jordan

Maximizing your first year of fly fishing, stillwater fishing in cold water temperatures, and the power of keeping a detailed fly fishing journal!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast! Today we're discussing how to maximize your first year of fly fishing (especially when it feels challenging), lake fishing through the coldest months, and the power of journalling!Questions? Drop them at flyfishuniversity.com/questions to be featured on the podcast!

Demystifying the world of sinking lines for fly fishing in stillwaters...Okay, in part one we talked floating lines for stillwater fly fishing, but there's one thing about floating lines that makes them slightly easier to understand than sinking lines... they all float! What makes sinking lines a bit more complicated is that it can become a game of splitting hairs. Hover - This line doesn't get fished as much as the rest of the ones on this list, but it absolutely has its time and place. This is a great line for fishing shallow water with mayfly nymphs, waterboatmen, shrimp and leeches. A beautiful attribute to this line is that it does not create a wake in the surface film, but sinks slow enough to avoid hooking up on bottom. Clear Camo - A great tool for shallow water, and a spectacular line for fishing both leeches and shrimp in shallow water. This is also a great line for fishing chironomid pupa through deeper water when fish are suspended sporadically throughout the water column. Seamless Density S1/S3 - This is a workhorse line, with a medium sink rate of 3 ips (inches per second). This line fishes great in water that is 8-15 feet deep, with a multitude of patterns and imitations. Blobs, dragons, leeches, scuds, backswimmers, boatmen, caddis pupa, there really aren't a lot of situations this line will not cater to. Seamless Density S3/S5 - Another sinking line that sees a staggering number of game time, and one that carries the quality of diversity. I fish this line with boobies, dragons, leeches, boatmen, the list would go on forever. If it moves in water between 12 and 25 feet deep, I will be imitating it with the S3/S5 line. Seamless Density S5/S7 - This line sinks at an incredible rate, and is a weapon for fishing deep water or buoyant patterns on marl flats. Boobies fished quickly in shallow water with a short leader are a great method in which the S5/S7 shines. Another instance that comes to mind is crawling floating dragonfly nymph patterns close to the bottom, or dangling chironomids vertically in deep water. Parabolic Sink - Even though the goal for fly lines over the past few years has been to eliminate 'belly', there are times when it's not all that bad! Any time you desire the fly to be pulled down in the water column, such as the way water boatmen move, the parabolic sink is a great place to start. There you have it, a full list of sinking lines for stillwaters! If this interests you, then you're going to love what Phil Rowley and I are going to be releasing next month with Stillwater Academy! Head to www.stillwaterflyfishingacademy.com to join the waitlist and receive notifications leading up to opening day.

What is one thing that makes stillwater fly fishing exponentially easier? Understanding your equipment inside and out.Fly lines are a popular topic in stillwater fly fishing, and for good reason. Lake fishing is a technical game at the best of times, and having your equipment holding you back does not make it easier. In the first of two episodes on fly lines for stillwaters, we're talking three floating lines and exactly what purposes they serve. Before we go any further, you'll notice that I'm recommending Scientific Anglers fly lines because it is what I fish. These are only my own opinions, and an honest look into what I trust and outfit myself with on the water. This is not, in any way, a sponsored or endorsed post. 1) Scientific Anglers Stillwater Indicator - With a 60 foot head, this line fishes extremely well at short and moderate distances. Its roll casting capabilities are exceptional, especially when it comes to fishing long leaders in excess of 20 feet. 2) Scientific Anglers Titan Long - Another beast when it comes to turning over bobbers, swivels, long leaders, tungsten beads, and just about anything you can attach to the end of a fly line, this is another favourite for fishing indicator rigs. This line is exceptionally easy to cast, when I spent a lot of my time guiding is was often the one I would put into the hands of those that were very new to lake fishing. Note, neither of the first two lines are designed for delicate presentations. 3) Scientific Anglers MPX - This is a wondrous floating line in terms of versatility and diversity. With a slightly more noticeable front taper, this line isn't designed quite as aggressively as the first two. I will fish it religiously when naked lining mayflies, chironomids, dry flies and emergers.If you enjoyed this episode, you'll like volume two in which we're talking essential sinking lines for fly fishing in stillwaters. Lastly, while you're here, I'm excited to announce an exciting project that Phil Rowley and I have been working on over the past year called Stillwater Academy. This is an educational platform for the stillwater obsessed angler, and we cannot wait to launch in February. To get on the waitlist and be the first to receive notifications leading up to our opening, head to stillwaterflyfishingacademy.com!

Are rotary tying vices worth the money? Is a double surgeon's knot better than a blood knot, and is there an advantage to click pawl vs. disc drag? It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast! Today we discuss rotary fly tying vices and whether they are worth the extra spend, whether a blood knot or a surgeon's knot are advantageous given the circumstances, and the classic dispute between click pawl and disc drag reels.If you'd like to submit a question, head to www.flyfishuniversity.com/questions!Jordan

21 tips to help you find more trout in still and moving water and make 2021 your best year on the water yet!Today's episode of the Fly Fish University Podcast is a compilation of some fly fishing practices that are going to help you find more fish on lakes and rivers this year. An overview of what you'll learn in this episode:1. Fish fewer flies, better!2. Take a casting lesson from a pro3. Carry less, shoot more line4. Strip with your rod tip down5. Fish 'low and slow' in cold water6. Fish outside the box in cold water7. The observant angler wins8. Colour code your fly boxes9. Fish methods you are uncomfortable with10. Scale down in high sun11. Fish the fly 2-3 ways before changing12. Fish a larger silhouette in dirty water13. Study stocking reports for stillwaters14. The importance of keeping a fly fishing journal15. Lose fewer fish at the boat with more line out16. Take the indicator off in spooky stillwaters17. Fishing ledges, drop-offs and transitions18. Fish a non-slip mono loop where applicable 19. Trigger the chase response in periods of no hatch20. Fish a hot spot fly21. Surround yourself with people who are way better than you for rapid growthEnjoy today's episode! FREE Knot-Tying Course: www.flyfishuniversity.com/knots FREE copy of '7 Steps to Fly Fishing Success': www.flyfishuniversity.com/bookQuestions for this podcast? Head to flyfishuniversity.com/questions

The ideal length and weight of rod for stillwaters, winter trout fishing tactics in moving water, and some post-COVID destination travel tips!It's Friday, which means it's time for another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast! Today we discuss the ideal length and weight of rod for fly fishing in stillwaters, some tactics for fishing the coldest months of the year on trout streams, and how to go about planning your first destination fly fishing trip post-COVID!If you'd like to submit a question, reach out to support@flyfishuniversity.com!Jordan

Five tips for increasing your stillwater fly fishing success by tapping into the love that trout have for devouring leeches!Leeches are gross... they swim around the lake in an undulating motion and they have the ability to latch onto your skin and suck your blood like a vampire. But did you know that leeches play a key role in the diet of trout in stillwaters? Leech imitations can take fish at just about any time of day or year, and they're a favourite searching pattern for new lakes. The following are five ways to increase your success fishing leeches in stillwaters.Harness the power of the strike indicator Also known as a bobber (favoured term), indicators are very powerful when it comes to fishing leeches in stillwaters as they allow us to indefinitely suspend our offerings within the trout's window of vision. Casting and retrieving undoubtedly has its time and place (including times when it will out-fish suspended imitations), but using a strike indicator to suspend your offering allows you to ultimately play the game of percentages by showing your offering to fish over an extended period of time, without worrying about hooking bottom. Base the speed of your retrieve on the temperature of the waterFishing leeches in lakes is highly productive, but there is not one 'secret' pattern that's going to catch exponentially more fish than anything else. Rather, it is how the fly is fished that's important, specifically the fly's retrieval speed and motion. The metabolic rate of trout drops substantially in very cold water, therefore a fairly catatonic approach is going to fool even the most lethargic of fish. As the season progresses and we are seeing fish move and feed with a bit more authority, a faster retrieval speed can start turning more fish on. I am a huge fan of fishing leeches 'low and slow' in the colder periods of the season (early spring and late fall), reverting back to tip #1 and using a strike indicator to do so. Fish leeches directly after a chironomid hatchIt is no secret that trout love to gorge themselves on a huge feast of chironomids when the opportunity presents itself. However, after the chironomids frenzy begins to taper down, they will often revert to eating a few small leeches to help them cap down their food. Aiding with digestion, you'll find fish patrolling weed beds, mud flats, ledges and drop-offs in search of leeches, and can ultimate capitalize on this afternoon feeding window by switching over to a leech imitation. Small fly, big fishIt is easy to fall under the illusion that bigger flies are the answer to catching more or bigger fish. Logically, it would make sense that a large meal would be preferable for larger fish (and there are definitely instances in which this rings true), but do not overlook the power of fishing small leech imitations. Don't be afraid to scale down to size 12, 14 or even 16 leech imitations, especially when targeting fish in lakes that receive a lot of angler traffic. Base the amount of flash off of the water clarityLarger, flashier imitations can fish exceptionally well under the right conditions. On the same note, so can small, drab presentations with little to no flash in the body or tail. How do we decide this? When fishing tannic or tea-stained lakes with very dark bottoms, it does not hurt to fish flies that have a bit more flash built into the tail or body of the fly. On the flip side, I love fishing small leech patterns (such as Brian Chan's B.M.W) in clear, alkaline lakes in which fish have a massive window of vision. They don't need a lot of flash or sparkle to draw them in from a great distance, and often very subtle and non-obtrusive patterns will outperform almost anything else in clear water. Enjoy!

What holds so many people back from casting further, can you fish chironomids all year, and is fluorocarbon always the answer?Today marks yet another episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast where we take questions from readers and listeners all around the world. Today's topics are some things we can look at to greatly increase fly casting distance in a short period of time, chironomid fishing in the summer and fall, and the when and where of fluorocarbon vs. monofilament. Want to submit a question? Reach out to support@flyfishuniversity.com and fire away!

Is there a time and place for shore fishing on stillwaters?The long and short of it is... YES! However, we have to understand the when, where, why and how of shore fishing on lakes. Not all lakes are created equal, and knowing the ins and outs of lake structure is going to help you immensely when it comes to successfully fishing without a boat. Before we go any further... I will say that having a watercraft of some sort is absolutely imperative for fly fishing stillwaters. Unless you live or fish somewhere that it is not permitted to have a watercraft, or not applicable, having a boat really just opens up a ton of doors when it comes to finding (and catching) fish. Find lakes that are shore fishable! It's important to find stillwaters that have shoreline structure that is conducive to shore fishing. Many lakes that are nutrient-rich will feature a soft, muddy bottom that is far from ideal for wading. They will also typically have fairly shallow gradient leading out to the drop-off or transition from shallow to deep water. While these are not ideal for shore fishing, you can find lakes that have a rocky or hard bottom and cater better to shoreline fishing. Find areas that allow you to access deep waterFish, like humans, are wired to survive first and do everything else second. This means that they cannot put feeding higher on the priority list than staying safe, alive and away from danger. Fish will often use deep water as a comfortable retreat to safety, and shallow water to consume their food. Finding shoreline areas that position you close to these drop-offs or transition areas will allow you to intercept fish as they are moving from deep water into shallow water to feed. Oftentimes feeding trout are found in less than 20 feet of water, making shoreline fishing a viable option if you can find an appropriate area. Find them when they're feedingEarly in the spring and again in the late fall months, fish will be found feeding in shallow water on staple foods such as scuds, leeches, immature damsels, waterboatmen and chironomids in both the larval and pupal stages. Fishing the times of year when fish are likely to be in the shallow water feeding is going to drastically increase your chances of finding fish from shore. Hopefully this helps, and I couldn't be more excited to share something I've been cooking up with my friend (and stillwater master) Phil Rowley later this month! If you are a stillwater enthusiast, you will absolutely love it!Jordan Oelrich

Spending a lot of time inside this winter and wishing you were fishing instead? You're absolutely not the only one! Even if we can't travel too far to go fishing at the moment, there are still things we can do as anglers to pass the time and beat the winter blues. 1) Clean & Organize Fly Lines - Because we all know that the last thing we want to do in the midst of fishing season is clean and organize all of our fly lines, wintertime is a perfect opportunity for some care and maintenance. Pick yourself up a good fly line cleaning kit and check your backing knots while you are on the job. This is a quick, easy way to extend the life of our fly lines!2) Organize your Fly Boxes - I am the first person to admit that organization and cleanliness has never been my true strong suit, but when it comes to fly box organization I am incredibly particular. I have, however, been one to get into the habit of sticking flies on my hat or onto the foam patch in my boat instead of putting them back in their rightful slot. Wintertime is a great time to round up all of the flies that have found their way into the bottom of my boat, wader pockets and gear bags and put them back in their home. 3) Clean & Patch your Waders - Nobody likes fishing with holes in their waders, but on the same note very few people like going through the process of finding pinholes leaks when there is good fishing to be had. The off season (if such a thing exists) is a great time to invest a bit of time into caring for your waders, jackets and boots. Click here for a great video on wader repair from Simms!4) Tie some Flies! - If you enjoy fly tying, there is something magical about sitting down for a session at the tying vice with no distractions. Tying flies not only allows us to exercise our creativity, but it also puts you into a place of looking forward to going fishing again. Even if my next destination trip is a long ways out (which is exactly how it feels right now!), sitting at the tying bench allows me to immerse myself into the excitement of travelling and fishing again. 5) Create your Bucket List - It's hard to visit your dream fly fishing destinations if you haven't gotten super clear on where they are. People in my family can (unfortunately) attest to the fact that I read the Yellow Dog Fly Fishing Travel Guide every morning over breakfast... Even if now might not be the time to travel internationally, it is absolutely the time to start planning!

How to approach new lakes, clipping your streamer hooks and learning (or not learning) from your spouse? It's ALL on today's episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast!Each and every Friday, we answer questions from fly fishers all around the world on a broad variety of topics. If you'd like to have your question featured, feel free to drop an email to support@flyfishuniversity.com!

Last minute shopping for someone who loves fly fishing and stuck on what to get them? If you like to live dangerously AKA starting your Christmas shopping at 2pm on the 24th, you're not alone. Here are five Christmas gift ideas for the fly fishing enthusiast in your family or friend circle:1. A gift card to your local fly shop - While I am not typically one to purchase gift cards as a Christmas present, there are a few reasons why a gift card to a fly fishing specialty shop is a great Christmas idea. The most relative is that fly fishing nuts know what they want, what they need and what they like. There are few things more fun than a guilt-free shopping spree at a local store, and no better way to support a local small business. 2. A great pair of nippers - While more of a novelty than anything, a good pair of nippers makes for an excellent fly fishing gift. There are a ton of customizable nippers on the market, I've always been a huge fan of the Simms Guide Nipper. The satisfaction that comes from slicing through the tag end of your knot with a fresh set of nippers is one of fly fishing's small, enjoyable details. 3. Tippet - One of the things an angler can never have too much of is fresh leader or tippet material. On the list of things that are better to have and not need, than need and not have, tippet sits right near the top. 4. Custom fly fishing art - There are some truly incredibly fly fishing artists in this day and age. A piece of fly fishing art, regardless the form it comes in, is a thoughtful gift that is almost guaranteed to be something that the fly fisherman you're shopping for doesn't have. Three that I can recommend are Charlie Clark (www.charlieclarkart.ca ), Jeff Currier (www.jeffcurrier.com) ) and my friend Jeremy Koreski (www.jeremykoreskigallery.com)5. A guided trip or fly fishing course - What is the adage about teaching a man to fish? Giving someone the gift of increasing their fly fishing education is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for someone that is interested in fly fishing, especially if they are just starting. If you're totally stumped on ideas, grab them Fly Fish University's 5-part Fly Fishing Fundamentals Deep Dive program for 20% off with the code "christmas" at checkout. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!Jordan

How do you know how fast to retrieve your fly? What about when to add external weights to your indicator setup? How about when it's totally ok to put the fly rod down and pick up your spinning rod? Find it ALL on this instalment of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast!Have questions? Submit them to support@flyfishuniversity.com to be featured on the podcast!

Want to get your kids into the sport of fly fishing, but not exactly sure where to start? This episode of the Fly Fish University Podcast covers the following keys for getting your kids on the water (in a way they actually enjoy)...Keep it funI literally cannot stress this enough. Fly fishing is fun, it's supposed to be fun, but sometimes we insist on making it hard. Your first impression will often be the most important one, and if your kids start out thinking fly fishing is a boring slog of an activity, it will become increasingly harder to get them on the water more often. If they're little, bring things with you that they can play with. Don't make it all about yourself, the more you can make it about them and their experience now, the greater your chances of having them actively participate in fly fishing down the road. Don't give up after one attemptMy fly fishing career has gone something like trying it for the first time at an incredibly young age, trying it again around 10 years old (with zero success), trying it again at age 14 and becoming immediately hooked. Once I started, there was no stopping, and by 17 I decided against going to college so I could work full-time in fly fishing. Had my dad, or anybody else who tried to teach me, given up on the first go, I would probably be the shift manager at Wendy's (I actually did work at Wendy's for a short stint in my early teens) instead of typing this to you. If at first your kids don't find fly fishing as interesting as you do, imagine how fun you would have found waving a stick with a bright string attached to it while hooking the trees behind you at their age. Don't push itKids like to rebel. The more they feel like it's something they "have" to do instead of something they want to do, the less inclined they're going to be to stick with it. Fly fishing, as you know if you are reading this, is incredibly enjoyable. This is how it was designed to be, do not push your kid into feeling like they have to join you on every outing if they don't want to.Pick a fishery with them in mindDon't drag your kids to a trophy lake where you might have one chance at a fish on a full day of fishing. They likely won't grasp the concept of the risk/reward factor yet, so bring them somewhere they will experience some action. Even if it is a stocked lake that does not grow fish over the 12-inch mark, it's going to keep them entertained and bring them a sense of accomplishment.Hire a professionalIf your child is old enough and you want to drastically shorten their learning curve, set them up with someone who is professionally qualified to teach them. This might mean sending (or accompanying) them to a kids fly fishing camp, buying them some online education, or bringing them on a guided trip. LASTLY...Don't forget that all Fly Fish University courses, workshops, programs and downloads are FREE to anybody under the age of 16! Simply email support@flyfishuniversity.com to have them enrolled.

How on earth do you build 25 feet of leader, let alone cast it without coming back with a bird's nest? Why do we fish hot pink flies for steelhead, and why do your dry flies keep sinking? It's all covered on today's episode of Q&A Friday on the Fly Fish University Podcast!To submit your questions, drop an email to support@flyfishuniversity.com!