Podcasts about Fly fishing

#763 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/763 Presented by:  TroutRoutes, Fish The Fly, Stonefly Nets, On DeMark Lodge When you hear “urban fly fishing,” what comes to mind? Trash? Pollution? Or carp? But today's guest is here to flip that idea on its head. He's a full-time guide who chases fish in the heart of Arizona, exploring canals, lakes, and small streams right in the city.  By the end of this episode, you'll see carp in a whole new light and pick up some solid tips to help you fish with more confidence in your own local waters.   Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/763

Cutthroat trout are the meanest, nastiest, gnarliest trout that ever roamed planet earth!  Okay, they're not. In fact, they've got a reputation for being kinda easy to catch.  But cutthroat are so much more than just eager dry fly eaters. They're one of the West's native trout, they're hugely important to some of the most unique ecosystems on earth, and catching them in the high country is one of the sport's greatest experiences.  This week on Untangled, you'll learn why so many anglers hold the cutthroat in such high regard. From learning all about their life history and exploring their native range, to tips on how to catch them today, you'll end this episode ready to become part of the cutthroat's epic story.  You'll also learn about:  Tips for picking the right rod to use when teaching little kids how to fly fish Why are there so many dry flies for sale when most of a fish's diet is subsurface? Tips for achieving the perfect mend LINKS FROM THE SHOW Get the FREE Finding Fish eBook - CHECK IT OUT Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE #LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE VIDEO - How to Mend Fly Line - CHECK IT OUT

We're not talking about the poetry of a fly cast made by Pete Kutzer, but poetry about fly fishing, some of the well known poets who were fly fishers, and why the appeal of poetry and fly fishing have much in common. My guest, Andrew Grace [29:19], is a published poet and professor of English, and he'll read us some of his own work as well as from poets like Jim Harrison and Chris Dombrowski. It's a real departure from our usual subjects and I hope you enjoy it.    In the Fly Box this week, we get more into our typical nitty-gritty subjects like: Is there a rule of thumb for how long it takes a sinking line to get to a particular depth? Can I fish in lakes with a shorter, softer fiberglass rod? How do I elegantly get the fly line out of my rod before I start casting? I catch trout in Alaska when they are eating eggs behind salmon, but at other times of year I can't catch them on dries or nymphs. Are they not in the same places at other times of year? How many different flies are there in the world?  s there a registry of them? And can they be copyrighted or trademarked? If I can't use gel flotant once my fly has gotten wet, why don't I just use the powder right off the bat and forget about the gel? I heard that when you cast a dry fly, you should pull back a bit at the end of the cast to develop some slack. But can this be executed in a smoother fashion? Why empty my wallet for a Helios rod when the Superfines are so good? What will a Helios do for me that a Superfine won't? Where can I find Hungarian partridge to tie smaller flies like size 16s? Is there a way you mark what line is on what reel so you don't have to use a magnifying glass to look at those tiny line markers? Is there a national registry of fly-fishing clubs?

Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod are joined by Michael Collins of Misty Mountain Guiding Service for a deep dive into fly fishing across the Midwest. From the clear streams of mid-Missouri to the legendary Driftless waters of Wisconsin and Iowa, the trio covers it all—smallmouth, trout, and the magic of chasing wild fish in wild places.They also get into fly tying, the evolving culture of conservation, and proposed changes from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) that could impact anglers and hunters alike. Other highlights include Brandon getting duped by internet misinformation, a discussion on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), and of course, the always unpredictable Mystery Bait Bucket segment.Whether you're tying flies, planning your next trip, or just love a good campfire-style conversation—this episode delivers.For more info:Misty Mountains Guiding ServiceMMGS FacebookMMGS Instagrammmgsozarks@gmail.com573-823-9057Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com

This is a fun one! In this special episode of Waypoints, Jim Klug is joined by longtime friends and  industry legends Brian O'Keefe and Bryan Gregson for a lively and insightful conversation that dives deep into the roots and the history of flyfishing. What started as a late-night, beer-fueled conversation at a recent consumer show gathering in Denver quickly turned into a bigger realization: many of today's younger anglers — even those who live and breathe the sport — have little to no knowledge of the icons and pioneers who laid the foundation for modern flyfishing. So, we decided to do something about it.This episode was created as a tribute and a history lesson — a fun, freewheeling discussion that shines a light on 30 legendary figures who helped shape the sport as we know it. From influential authors and pioneering guides to gear innovators, conservationists, and destination fishing trailblazers, this episode covers a wide spectrum of personalities who left an undeniable mark on flyfishing during the 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned angler or newer to the game, this one is both entertaining and educational — a must-listen for anyone who cares about the history, evolution, and culture of our sport.Waypoints is brought to you by PatagoniaTo bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world's most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They're made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.- Follow us on Instagram- Follow us on Facebook- Check out our YouTube Page- View the official Yellow Dog website ...

This episode is all about breakthroughs. For each of us, as a personal account, what have been the biggest changes, or the biggest steps forward, in our fishing?I call these breakthroughs because they're the landmarks or discoveries or changes, along the way of learning, where we can look back and say, “Now that, really made a big difference.”We talk a lot about a life on the water. And really, each of us here at Troutbitten has fished for most of our lives. And the truth is, it's not really been a hobby or a pastime as much as it's been part of our lives for a long, long time. Fishing fills our thoughts and plans. Other fishermen tend to be our closest friends. All of this means a lot to us.I've written articles and the guys and I have talked about how to stay in the fishing game for a lifetime. And we all agreed that the mystery, the problem solving, that active nature of fishing — of making things happen — rather than a passive way of fishing, has been a main driving force behind our long term interest.And precisely because we're always working on improving, we're often looking for that next big breakthrough — the next tactic, the next style, the next fly, maybe a leader, the influence of a friend, some other piece of gear, some knowledge about the trout themselves, maybe a new river . . . whatever. And I know as I look back on my own years of fishing, I can put my finger on a half dozen landmarks — things that, for me, changed everything.I'm also constantly searching for that next breakthrough. And that's where so much of the enjoyment of fishing begins for me.So these landmarks, or these breakthroughs are surely different for everyone. This is another favorite question I ask of new anglers that I meet. I love hearing their stories. So that's what we're here to do with the Troutbitten guys tonight.We're just here to talk. There's no real tactics here, nothing instructional, just a conversation about some moments in time or the discoveries that have kept us fishing and kept us motivated throughout a life on the water.My friends, Matt Grobe, Bill Dell and Josh Darling join me for a great discussion.ResourcesREAD: Troutbitten | How To Stay in the Fly Fishing Game for a LifetimePODCAST: Troutbitten | Why We Fish - S13, Ep6VisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thanks to TroutRoutes:Use the code TROUTBITTEN for 20% off your membership athttps://maps.troutroutes.com Thanks to SkwalaUse the code, TROUTBITTEN10 for 10% off your order athttps://skwalafishing.com/

#761 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/761 Presented by:  Yellowstone Teton Territory, Mountain Waters Resort, Smitty's Fly Box,  Togiak River Lodge Caleb Andrews of Tails of the Tides is here to help you make the most of your trip if you plan on fly fishing for redfish in South Carolina. We're talking perfect trip timing, his go-to fly materials, how scent actually plays into hookups, and even what to look for when you're creeping across those oyster flats. If you've ever dreamed of sight-fishing redfish in a truly wild place, this episode is for you.   Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/761  

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

#760B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/760B Presented by: Moccasin Fly Club Today's story started with a pair of forgotten wading boots, a group chat, and a long hike into Cheesman Canyon... with only a pair of moccasins! Hear how this mishap not only turned into a fun story to tell around a campfire but also sparked the idea for a company that's now helping anglers plan better trips, save money, and fish more often. In this episode, you'll learn how to stretch your travel budget, pick the right guides, and build unforgettable trips that fit any style or wallet. John Hunt, founder of Moccasin Fly Club, is here to help us understand how to find trips on a budget, what makes a great fly fishing guide, and why some of the best adventures are still DIY. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/760B

For our Season 15 Intermission, my wife, Becky, joins me for a lighthearted look at what's going on in the Troutbitten world. We talk about the upcoming leader sale in the Troutbitten Shop (May 23rd).We talk about the New Trail Troutbitten beer, the upcoming book on Fly Fishing the Mono Rig and a bunch of videos on the Troutbitten YouTube channel.Becky also covers a couple favorite fishing terms near the end. :-)ResourcesVIDEO: Troutbitten | Fish and Film - Tight Line Tracking, Nymphs in the WindSHOP: Troutbitten | Category | LeadersVisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thanks to TroutRoutes:Use the code TROUTBITTEN for 20% off your membership athttps://maps.troutroutes.com Thanks to SkwalaUse the code, TROUTBITTEN10 for 10% off your order athttps://skwalafishing.com/

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/760 Presented By: Mountain Waters Resort, Smitty's Fly Box, FishHound Expeditions, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors One of the most iconic fish you'll see across social media is the peacock bass - massive, vibrant, and found deep in some of the most remote jungle waters on the planet. Today, we're heading into one of those places, Baku Lodge in Colombia. They're the local indigenous community, welcomes you like family, and you'll hear firsthand from three people on the ground and on the water of what it's really like to chase giant peacocks in untamed waters. Today, Andres, Jason, and Nick are gonna take us deep into the Colombian jungle to show us what it's really like to target these giant peacock bass, some up to 25 pounds. Along the way, you're going to learn why Colombia is much safer to travel to than most people think, and how this adventure is surprisingly affordable. We're gonna talk about that today - a full week at this lodge, a price we talk about at the end that is pretty amazing of what you get here and what to expect when you're out there and how to prepare for your first jungle trip. Plus, you're gonna find out what the underloop cast is all about from Nick. Nick, the stick. He gets it done. Today, we're gonna talk Lamson liquid outfit, and all the rest. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/760

One of the toughest decisions you've gotta make is what fly to tie on, and sometimes, that task feels IMPOSSIBLE! One of the best ways to feel confident about picking flies is to learn as much as you can about the food that fish eat.  Aquatic insects are a HUGE part of a fish's diet, and caddisflies are a bug that's almost always on the menu. But we don't give caddis the attention they deserve. In fact, most anglers don't know just how important caddis are, or how much they actually matter to trout.  This week on Untangled, you'll learn all about caddisflies -- what they look like, why fish love 'em so much, and a few of our favorite patterns. This gives you the information you need to go out and give the fish EXACTLY what they wanna eat.  You'll also learn about:  How to tie your dry-dropper rigs so the dropper doesn't slide off your top fly Some tips for fishing during spring runoff  When and how you should use weightless nymphs (nymphs tied without beads)  LINKS FROM THE SHOW Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE #LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE VIDEO - How We Fish: Spring Fly Fishing - CHECK IT OUT  

Shyanne Orvis is a Colorado-based fly fishing guide and content creator whose deep connection to nature shapes both her career and her approach to motherhood. From the rivers of Carbondale to destinations around the world, she's building an inclusive community on the water—inviting more women to experience the transformative power of fly fishing.Connect with Shyanne: Website Instagram Purchase tickets to Outside Festival 2025 Thank you to our sponsors: Capital One and the REI Co-op® Mastercard® Teva

Enjoy this replay of EP 373 with Joshua Schwartz and Travel Creel. Today on episode 373 of the outdoor biz podcast I'm talking with Travel Creel founder and chef Joshua Schwartz. Joshua and his team love to fish! Their goal is to combine world-class fishing destinations with comfortable accommodations and outstanding dining experiences. Facebook Twitter Instagram The Outdoor Biz Podcast Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Sign up for my Newsletter HERE. I'd love to hear your feedback about the show! You can contact me here: email: rick@theoutdoorbizpodcast.com   Show Notes How'd you get into cooking? So, my grandfather owned a French bistro, so I kind of grew up in a restaurant as a kid, and he passed away when I was pretty young, and didn't really know how to deal with his passing. Didn't really understand grief and everyone was really upset. My family, my mom, my dad, my sister were all upset and I didn't really know what to do cuz I wasn't feeling upset, but I didn't know how to deal with it. And my mom's like, you, everyone deals with grief differently, so you just need to choose what you wanna do and how you wanna deal with it. And I said, well, I'm just gonna be a chef like grandpa was. Oh, cool. And that was really kind of like, I set my sights on it and I never looked back. So tell us about your cooking career. You cooked at the French Laundry, Bouchon, and Per Se Yeah, so I started cooking at 14 professionally and worked my way through some of local restaurants and met a chef when I was in high school, who was an instructor at the New England Culinary Institute, and he worked for Thomas Keller at his original restaurant in New York called Rakel. He helped me get set up going to the New England Culinary Institute. Which, which is where I went to school in Vermont. And my first externship, from the way that school worked was you did six months at school, six months as an externship working in a professional kitchen. And then back to school for six months and then back out in the field for six more months. And then you graduated. So my first externship was in New York working for David Bouley at the original Bouley on Duane and Houston. And that was my introduction to fine dining. When did you have time to pick up fly fishing? When I was working at the French Laundry we started the project of Buchon and me and another chef friend Jeff Cerciello, we were going to be the sous chefs at Buchon. So we, we were helping with that project and everything was going really well, but it was kind of slow-moving, you know, building a restaurant out and starting it from the ground. , it was slow-moving. So we had, we had a lot of free time. I mean, not a lot, but more than normal. And he asked me if I wanted to go up and fish go fish with him up on Hat Creek. Which is, you know, a beautiful Spring Creek in Northern California. I had grown up fishing as a kid. My grandmother used to take me flounder fishing off the dock on Long Island as a kid. And, and then we moved to Pennsylvania when I was a little bit older and we had ponds in every corner. And I used to use my spin rod and catch bass left and right. And that was kind of like a normal summer routine for me. So I loved fishing. But I'd never fly fished before. And I caught my first fish on a dry fly and that was it. I mean, on the way home, I overdrew my bank account and bought a fly rod a fly. waiters and boots at the fly shop in Redding. I remember it specifically cause I overdrew my account. Right, right, right. But I was dead set on like, I'm gonna keep doing this. It's, yeah. So it's, it's a great sport to participate in. Yeah. And then that summer, like we took another, like, we, we all mountain bike and we took. A mountain biking trip up to Tahoe. And I remember one day we were, we were gonna do the Crest Trail and I was like, I'm gonna take the day off from biking and I'm gonna go fishing. And I went out to the East Carson and, and, and set myself up with a bob or rig for the first time and caught my first Subsurface on a fly rod, on a flash, a flashback, pheasant tail. And then I was just like, now I'm in it. So it was very cool. It was pretty awesome. And that was, that was the beginning. Then a couple of years later, what happened is I went to New York at that point and went to Per Se, and all my fly fishing gear went into a bin. So what was the inspiration for Travel Creel? How did those two things mesh into what you're doing today? So, a friend of mine has an outfitting company AC Fly Fishing out of Redding. And Anthony had approached me about helping him with a travel trip going to Louisiana for Redfish, and he said, you want to come along and you can go fishing and you'd cook for everybody? And I'm like yeah, dude. Like I get to basically go do this saltwater trip for free, right? Get to do some fishing and you know, all I gotta do is cook, like I can handle that. So it was a great introduction to travel and hospitality with travel. And I did it for a few years with him. We would do it every year. We'd set it all up and so he would just do like one, one international trip a year. It was one trip that I did with him. The whole thing is with saltwater fly fishing, there's no guarantee with fishing. And when you're in the business of creating experiences for people, you gotta work on your controllables. And the controllables are hospitality and you know, a good bed to sleep in, nice meals. All those things are controllable when the fishing's not right. And that was like the premise behind it. That's what we talked about a lot. And why it worked and it made sense to me and I was able to kind of excel in that world of knowing how to talk to fisherman because I was one of 'em. Right? On top of being able to create a great meal for them. And it just made a really good vibe in, in the lodge, you know? It's great. Yeah. And now Travel Creel came to life. Tell everybody what Travel Creel is. What do you do? So basically right around when Covid started, we had a trip to Louisiana planned. And what happened is we had the guides lined up, the lodges lined up, and then the clients bailed out because of Covid. And we kind of hit the panic button a little bit, what are we gonna do? And I was like, well, let me reach out to all my clients. I had started working at Del Gado and I had a kid and I got married I transitioned into guiding because it was a way for me to go fishing still Right. And make money. And my wife would be like, yeah, yeah, you can go 'cause you're making money. So I bought a drift boat. I learned how to row a drift boat and I started, on my weekends going up to Redding and guiding the Sac for trout and ended up getting a permit on the Trinity River and guiding the Trinity. Then that led to me guiding for coastal steelhead as well. The whole premise behind my guiding business was, I can't guarantee you're gonna catch a bunch of fish when we go steelhead fishing. But I guarantee you're gonna have a great lunch. So I had all these clients, right? So I told Anthony, listen, let me reach out to some of my guys and see if I can put together this group and we can still go. Literally in like 24 hours got the trip filled up. And that's when it kind of clicked in my head, like, maybe this is something I should be doing. Right. Maybe you know, I could change my role from being just the guy that goes along and fishes and cooks to the guy who puts the trips together. And really step up the hospitality. Take that killer lunch and turn it into a killer experience. And that's where Travel Creel was born. I wanna create a business where I can create these experiences, not just in Louisiana, but all over the country, and possibly all over the world. We should let everybody know as we're talking that Josh was out for a walk with his daughter and dog, so that's why you're activity in the background. So what are some of the most, let's start with most exotic places that you've taken a group to and kind of had to cook, camp, cook kind of thing? You know, I haven't really done much camp cooking. As far as these trips go, I try to make 'em a little bit more upscale. Where I try to find like a nice place for everyone to congregate. Most recently I think probably the out there place has been San Carlos in Baja for fishing, for Rooster Fish and Marlin. You know, it's kind of like the wild west of Baja. It's like old school, Baja. And as far as like logistics go for me and putting a trip together, it's probably been the most challenging, but most rewarding at the same time. So how do you, is it still word of mouth or how do you market the business? I started with just the clients that I have. And it's, you know, I'm only as good as the last trip I did and every, every little trip I do the word travels and, and you know, I have a client then tell four or five of his buddies and say, you gotta come with me on this next trip. and then those guys tell their friends and it's, it's a lot of word of mouth. And the other, the other part is I have a really great network of friends that are in the fly fishing industry that are all very supportive of what I'm doing. A lot of independent guides. I mean, you and I are talking today because of Dave Neal, Dave Neal. Shout out to Dave great guide. Yeah. He's a great friend and independent guide and supports what I do and, and has eaten my food and loves it. And someone like that I can reach out to him with a trip and be like, Hey, listen, I got two spots left to fill on this trip. and if you fill those spots, then I'll throw you a bone. And that kind of, that kind of stuff is really helpful too. And it's, it's come into play quite a few times, so that's perfect. Do you work all, do you also work with any fly shop? I have been working with George Revelle at Lost Coast Outfitters in San Francisco. So he basically puts together all the lists of gear and everything. I send it out to clients and then they get to contact George directly or the shop perfect, and get all those items they need for a trip. And in turn it's a very simple partnership where he helps me put those lists together. I promote him and he helps me fill seats. Do you get to do any other outdoor activities? No, probably not. You know, my kids have been wanting to go snowboarding this year and we're probably gonna get up there and do that. You know, a lot of everything we do is right here. We live in Sonoma County and we have, we have a big boat that we take out on the lake, or we take out in the bay. The kids like to go be pulled around in a tube or go water skiing. We try to get out on the boat as much as we can when there's nice weather. And we love bike rides. We do a little hiking here and there. Do you have any suggestions or advice for folks wanting to get into the fly fishing biz or outdoor biz? I think just get out there and experience it and get on the water and you don't know until you go, you gotta get out there and, and experience it and meet people and network. If you're looking to be a guide, get on that water. Learn from the guys that know the water the best. Obviously learn how to row a boat if you're gonna be running a drift boat. Exactly. Do you have any daily routines to keep your sanity? I'd say as far as daily routines mine is getting in my truck and turning it on some music and driving 45 minutes over the hill. A beautiful drive over through vineyards and the rolling hills here. In that 45-minute ride to and from work, I accomplish more in my head than I do accomplish when I'm at home or at work. It gives me a chance to clear my head. It gives me a chance to think about ideas. A lot of people ask me like, when do you have time to come up with ideas for some of your new dishes and stuff? I'm like, most of those ideas come to me while I'm driving to or from work. Do you read a lot? Do you have any favorite books? Books to give as? My mom was an English teacher and when you presented that question in email, I was like, I can't wait to get to it. I was kind of pushed to read as a kid. I'd say the most recent book that I read is Lords of the Fly. And you know, to me that that book sucked me right into that story. And I actually got to go to Homosassa last year and meet some of the players in that book. Since you're a cook, is there a favorite piece of gear that all of us that cook outside should have in our camp kitchen? Yeah. I think everyone should have, a Japanese Mandolin. They're not expensive. They're like 30 bucks. You can get 'em on Amazon. Watch your fingers cuz they're sharp. But like, it just is a game changer, especially when you're not in the home kitchen. If you're doing some outdoor cooking, then you can slice a slice, a cucumber or carrot, whatever, like within seconds. Okay. And it just adds to being able to work quicker and more efficiently when, you know, chopping onions or shallots or things like that. As we wrap up, is there anything else you'd like to say to our listeners? I'm just really stoked to be here talking to you about what I'm doing and if anyone's interested in doing a fun adventure and has a passion for fishing and fine food and great company to look us up and check out what we're doing. The website is Travel Creel Hospitality

Rob drove down to Fredericksburg, Virginia for some late-season shad fishing. After the shad depart, the striped bass, spotted gar, and northern snakehead make their appearance. After parking at Falmouth Beach, Rob strides across the sand to the primary river channel, where he galavants above and below the Route 1 bridge. This bridge signifies the tidal fall line on the Rappahannock River. Two weeks later, Rob asks Misty to join him for more escapades. Will the stunning weather help? Should Rob fish a single fly or tandem rig? These are the waters Rob fished during his college years in Fredericksburg in the late 1990s. Misty remarks that there are no elephants or tigers for Rob to be concerned about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#759 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/759  Presented by: San Juan Rodworks, Fish The Fly, FishHound Expeditions, Mountain Waters Resort Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors    In this episode, we sit down with Jerry Kustich—bamboo rod builder, author, and one of the pioneers of Great Lakes steelhead fly fishing. From his off-the-grid cabin days in Idaho to building rods with legends like Tom Morgan at Winston and starting Sweetgrass Rods, Jerry takes us on a soulful journey through decades of fly fishing evolution. You'll hear about his early fishing adventures, the rise of the Great Lakes fishery, his passion for writing, and the powerful stories behind the rods, rivers, and people that shaped his life. If you love stories that go deeper than just catching fish, this one's for you. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/759 

The trout is prized as a gamefish because it's picky. It's selective. Often, it requires a refined presentation to fool a wild trout. And in large part, that's the draw toward fishing for them.In every region, in every stream, trout habits can differ from others in neighboring watersheds. And across the fishing landscape, we find places and even moments when trout are more picky — more choosy — about what, where and how they want to eat their food.We've all seen fishing change in just a few minutes. We've happened upon bite windows, or periods of time with trout feeding more regularly, where we happen to have the right fly and the right presentation to meet the preferences of those fish. Likewise, we've all had a good thing going, where we're catching trout quickly, and it all just shuts down.So there's a lot to this idea of selectivity.And in this episode, we dig into what makes a trout selective. The quick answer is the theory that angler pressure makes trout more picky. There is no doubt about it. For sure, our fishing, our presentations educate the already picky trout what not eat, where and when.But many other reasons for selectivity are natural. Meaning, they have nothing to do with anglers fishing for trout. These factors, like low water, stable water temperatures and the prevalence of one easy food form, can also make an already picky, tough to catch fish, even tougher.This is a good topic.My friends, Matt Grobe, Dr. Trevor Smith and Austin Dando join me for a great discussion.ResourcesPODCAST: Troutbitten | Angler Pressure ONE - What it Does to the Fish - S7, Ep1PODCAST: Troutbitten | Angler Pressure TWO- What it Does to the Fishing - S7, Ep2READ: Troutbitten | We Don't Want Easy FishingVisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thanks to TroutRoutes:Use the code TROUTBITTEN for 20% off your membership athttps://maps.troutroutes.com Thanks to SkwalaUse the code, TROUTBITTEN10 for 10% off your order athttps://skwalafishing.com/

There are two ways to tell the experience of an angler: how he holds a fish and how he keeps his secrets. The latter is probably more important.A seasoned angler intuitively understands the vulnerability of a river. Spot burning is a real thing with real consequences.Good anglers understand this concept. Good people understand this concept.Every piece of river is someone else's favorite place. So we respect the spots — for others, if not for ourselves.Here's the article:READ: Troutbitten | Respect the Spots! A Fisherman's Thoughts on Friendship and Spot BurningHere's the Riverside Video on YouTubeVIDEO: Troutbitten | A Fisherman's Thoughts on Friendship and Spot BurningThanks to TroutRoutes:Use the code TROUTBITTEN for 20% off your membership athttps://maps.troutroutes.com Thanks to SkwalaUse the code, TROUTBITTEN10 for 10% off your order athttps://skwalafishing.com/

#758 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/758 Presented by:  TroutRoutes, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Yellowstone Teton Territory, On DeMark Lodge Alex Xenie Hall — legendary Colorado fly fishing guide, steelhead nut, and self-proclaimed trout bum — takes us deep into his world, from the Upper San Juan to the far end of the Babine River. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/758

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

We venture into unknown waters and have artificial intelligence design a variety show with JUST the gang. We talk about some recent fishing outings, the start to warmer days, we get into some playful roasting, and more! TUNE IN and listen to a show with JUST Mitchy, Aldo and Aidas. It's been a while.    HOW TO HELP SO FLY: Please go leave us a review on APPLE PODCASTS. It really helps our show get out there, which means we get to make MORE episodes.  Thank you to our sponsors: Drift Outfitters Redington Chums Costa Muskoka Brewery Hooké   Podcast Intro Theme Song Music: “Favela Beat“ by Birocratic (www.birocratic.com) The song used in our podcast was licensed via Birocratic License v05.2016. For info on how you can use this music in your project, check out ⁠http://www.birocratic.com/license-app.⁠ To download Birocratic's 60+ song discography, visit http:// birocratic.bandcamp.com. Thanks to all our listeners.   

Pools - the slow, deep sections in a river - always look so inviting! They're so deep and mysterious, they've just GOTTA hold tons of fish, right?  Well, they do - but catching fish from these pools ain't always easy. If you're anything like me, you've probably left pools feeling like you could've done better, even if you put a few in the net.  This week on Untangled, you'll learn how to fish pools. The tips and tactics I'm teaching are the same ones I used when guiding, and that we've taught to thousands of anglers here at VFC. I know they're gonna work for you!  You'll also learn about:  How long to rest fish before casting to them again, if you've fished or waded through the hole before Using fast clips (or snap swivels) with flies How to tell what weight your fly line is The type of wading boots you need for slippery, tough wading conditions  LINKS FROM THE SHOW Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE #LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE Get the FREE Finding Fish eBook - CHECK IT OUT RESOURCE - AFFTA Fly Line Weight Chart - CHECK IT OUT  

With the salmon run beginning in earnest this month, the Blackwater's Conor Arnold joins us this week to tell us about the unique May salmon that arrives in the river, and whether the spring run's decline could actually herald an increase in the back-end? Plus, Tom has a mayfly update from Corrib, and we'll be bringing you more mayfly updates from across the country over the next few weeks so stay tuned for those. Keep up to date with all the latest Ireland on the Fly on https://www.IrelandontheFly.com and get regular updates on https://Instagram.com/IrelandontheFly.

#756 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/756 Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Fish The Fly, On DeMark Lodge, Mountain Waters Resort Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Would you guide steelhead anglers through Washington's wild rivers, then hop on a flight to Gabon or French Polynesia to chase something completely different—all while pushing the fly fishing industry to care more and do better? Today we're joined by Dave McCoy, Patagonia Fly Fish ambassador and owner of Emerald Water Anglers. Dave breaks down the real state of steelhead conservation, the overlooked opportunities in warmwater fly fishing, and why swinging flies is more than a method—it's a mindset. He shares the story of helping launch Patagonia's Fly Fish social presence, his conversations with Yvon Chouinard, and why guiding should include deeper dialogue—yes, even about politics. You'll also hear about his global travel program, from sea-run cutthroat in Seattle to tarpon in rivers and bonefish in the Bahamas. Plus, Dave explains why your first fly fishing trip shouldn't always be for trout, how Patagonia is rethinking wader design, and how listening—really listening—might just save the sport. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/756

Let's talk about fishing big rivers. For the most part, all of us here at Troutbitten are river anglers, meaning not much stillwater. Furthermore we're mostly wade anglers. We spend most of our time wading rather than floating, because we enjoy it, and because in a lot of cases, wading gives us the best chance for success.But over the years I've noticed some misunderstandings about where and how we fish. I hear from a lot of reader, listeners and watchers of Troutbitten stuff. And one thing that frequently comes up is an assumption that all of our waters are small to medium sized. But that's not true. Each of us spends plenty of time on big rivers. We all have our favorite rivers outside of this region. We've all traveled. And even around here, we have opportunities to fish big rivers.So, what's big? I'll say a big river is one that you could float. And it's probably the kind of river where you can't wade all of it.So we're here to talk about fishing big water. In previous podcasts, we've spent some time talking about specific tactics and strategies for fishing small water, so let's do the same for big rivers.Each of us has a few tricks and some plans for getting the most out of a big water trip. We've made the mistakes, and we've all shared among ourselves how we eventually learned to not only manage big water but have some of the best days of the season.I always say that fishing big water and fishing it well takes a lot of discipline. We talk about all of that and a lot more in this podcastMy friends, Matt Grobe, Bill Dell, Austin Dando and Josh Darling join me for a great discussion.ResourcesVIDEO: Troutbitten | Reading Water in Levels, Lanes and SeamsREAD: Troutbitten | Never Blame the FishREAD: Troutbitten | Fishing Big Water -- One Key TipVisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thanks to TroutRoutes:Use the code TROUTBITTEN for 20% off your membership athttps://maps.troutroutes.com Thanks to SkwalaUse the code, TROUTBITTEN10 for 10% off your order athttps://skwalafishing.com/

#755 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/755  Presented by: Pescador on the Fly If you've ever tried to sneak in a little fly fishing on a business trip or family vacation, this episode is for you. Jeff Ditsworth of Pescador on the Fly shares his fly fishing travel hacks from 25+ years of experience. We dive into how to pack light, avoid common gear mistakes, and make the most of those bonus fishing hours. Jeff also gives us the lowdown on his G6 packable rod and why he always brings at least two rods on every trip. Whether you're headed to Montana or Mexico, you'll walk away with simple tricks to fish more and stress less. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/755 

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael dives into the world of Shenandoah Reel Women, a remarkable initiative that offers fly fishing camps for young women aged 12 to 18. Joan Chapman, one of the directors, explains that the program aims to empower young women through hands-on outdoor experiences. Since its inception in 2021, the camps have evolved to include both novice and advanced levels, ensuring a comprehensive learning journey for all participants. The camps, held at the picturesque Shenandoah River State Park, provide a unique blend of adventure and education. Participants receive extensive training in fly fishing, including casting techniques, knot tying, and equipment maintenance. The camps also emphasize conservation education and river quality testing, fostering a deep connection with nature. One notable feature of the program is the mentorship initiative. Joan highlights how past campers, who have progressed to mentor roles, play a crucial part in guiding new participants. These mentors not only assist in teaching fly fishing skills but also contribute to the overall camp experience, creating a supportive community. The camps are designed to be accessible to all interested young women. With a reasonable registration fee that includes accommodation, meals, and fishing gear, the program ensures affordability. Additionally, full scholarships are available, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder participation. Joan emphasizes the anonymity of scholarship recipients to maintain their privacy. Beyond fly fishing, the camps offer a holistic experience. Participants are involved in cooking, journaling, and various educational activities, including visits to a fish hatchery and survival training. This multifaceted approach ensures that attendees leave with valuable life skills and cherished memories. For those interested, the novice camp runs from June 15th to June 19th at a cost of $150, while the advanced camp is scheduled from July 6th to July 10th at a cost of $100. Both camps promise an unforgettable experience, blending the thrill of fly fishing with the joy of outdoor learning. For more information or to register for the novice camp, click here. For more information or to register for the advanced camp, click here. To request a scholarship, please contact: Joan Chapman by phone: 703-507-2276 or via email: shen.reel.women@gmail.com. Click here to download the press release & flyer.  

Do you need to use different tactics, flies, and strategies when you're fishing for stocked trout versus wild ones? We hear a version of that question ALL THE TIME here at VFC, and it makes sense. For a lot of people, the most consistent trout fishing they have easy access to are stocked fish. So, we're taking a deep-dive into the world of stocked and wild fish. We'll look at all the differences between the two -- their appearance, behavior, and the flies and strategies we recommend for them.  You'll also learn about:  How steep the learning curve is in fly fishing, and the two things you should focus on to lessen it  Why fish sometimes don't eat caddis dry flies, even if the caddis are swarming in the air above the river How many flies you should carry with you for a day of fishing What counts as a "caught" fish  LINKS FROM THE SHOW Get the FREE Rigs & Knots Guide - CHECK IT OUT Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE #LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE RESOURCE - Paper about stocking trout - CHECK IT OUT EBOOK - How to Read Rivers and Find Fish - CHECK IT OUT VIDEO - Game-changing Presentation Strategies - WATCH IT NOW VIDEO - Match the Hatch with Caddis Flies - WATCH IT NOW  

Inside nearly every fly fisher is a budding writer, eager to share their passion with the world. I've done podcasts on how to write better fly-fishing stories in the past, and figured it was time to talk to an editor and publisher about how you can get your masterpiece published. Ross Purnell [32:15], editor and publisher of Fly Fisherman magazine, was happy to share his advice on this subject—and no one in the fly-fishing world has more experience in this topic than Ross.   In the Fly Box this week, we have some great tips from listeners, some questions that I've answered before, and some fresh ones that I haven't, including: How do I deal with leaders that get knotted up when I am ready to use them? When you have fished a section of water, how long do you stay there, switching flies and techniques? Or do you move on? From a listener, a great fly and technique for catching yellow perch.  A listener relays his approach for minimalist equipment when fishing close to home. What is your opinion using balsa wood for fly tying? My casting with a dry fly is OK, but I struggle with dry dropper and streamer rigs.  What can I do? Do trout get "lost" after being landed in another part of a river? A listener adds some corrections to the proposed selling off of public lands. When fishing a double nymph rig, do you put the bigger fly above or below a smaller fly? How do I keep my dropper from slipping off my barbless dry fly?  I don't like using separate droppers on the leader. If I mess up and tie a dry fly with oversized hackle and wings, will it matter? How many flies of a given pattern will you tie? What is the minimum number? Is there an easy way to get beads on a size 18 hook?

In this episode, we're exploring new water—literally and figuratively. I've only been to the Mississippi Gulf Coast once in my life, and never fished it. So we're coming at this one fresh. Thanks to our mutual friend Greg, I got connected with Mississippi-based guide Richard Smith, and what followed was a wide-ranging, detail-packed conversation on the saltwater opportunities that await along this lesser-known stretch of the Gulf.Richard walks us through everything from inshore redfish on the beaches of Ocean Springs to the remote, fish-rich flats of the Chandeleur Islands, where he runs a floating lodge called The Pelican. Whether you're on foot, hopping on a skiff, or dreaming of sight-casting in clear Gulf water, there's something in this episode for you.We cover the target species you might encounter—redfish, black drum, triple tail, flounder, jack crevalle, and more—and break down the gear, fly selection, leaders, knots, and techniques that work best in this fishery. Richard shares insider tips on how the local fish feed, the water clarity you can expect, and even the best rod weights for different scenarios.But it's not all about fishing. We talk food, lodging, and what to do when you're not chasing fish. If you're headed to Ocean Springs, Richard's got your itinerary dialed in—from where to stay, to where to eat the best speckled trout or grab a killer cheeseburger after a long day on the flats.And of course, we round it out with stories—the one that got away (or almost took him with it), and what it's like to run a remote lodge that floats in the Gulf and feeds both fish and anglers in equal measure.Whether you're looking to plan your first trip down to Mississippi's coast or just want to learn more about a hidden gem of a fishery, this one's packed with local knowledge, good laughs, and a healthy dose of Southern hospitality.Resources:richardsmithflyfishing.comchandelierpelican.comVisit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this second episode of our two-part Christmas Island series, Waypoints shifts the focus from the history and angling evolution of the atoll to hands-on fishing specifics. Host Jim Klug continues his conversation with Bryant Dunn of Christmas Island Lodge, diving deep into the angling experience itself. They address and answer the most common questions from anglers and travelers — from navigating the atoll's massive, diverse flats to targeting bonefish, giant trevally, triggerfish, and other prized species. They also discuss gear recommendations, fly selection, travel logistics, and how the remoteness of Christmas Island shapes both the fishing and the overall adventure.Whether you're planning your first visit to the atoll or dreaming of a return trip at some point in the future, this episode delivers an inside look at what it takes to succeed on the flats of Kiritimati. Bryant and Jim share expert tips on preparing for the conditions, working effectively with local guides, and maximizing every opportunity in one of saltwater flyfishing's most legendary settings. Packed with helpful advice, destination insight, and deep local knowledge, this conversation is the ultimate guide to gearing up, traveling smart, and making the most of a trip to Christmas Island.Waypoints is brought to you by PatagoniaTo bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world's most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They're made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.- Follow us on Instagram- Follow us on Facebook- Check out our YouTube Page- View the official Yellow Dog website ...

We spend a lot of time thinking about tactics and working on techniques. We devote our energies toward finding fly patterns, tying up our confidence flies and testing new flies. We research new waters and explore unfinished sections in familiar waters. We spend a lot of time doing fishy things. This is a life on the water.The guys and I have been talking a lot about reading water. It's one of the biggest deficiencies we see while guiding — just choosing the right piece of a river for your next cast. It's about understanding what water should receive the most attention and what water gets gets a pass.As an angler, reading the water really comes down to understanding what a trout needs. We read water for depth, speed and structure, in reference to what a trout prefers. And when we talk about reading water, we're thinking about it all from an angler's perspective. If you're kayaking down a river for recreation, then how you read water will be pretty different.Everyone can pick out hydraulics and learn to read current seams. Those are the elementary building blocks of reading trout water. Then we take that knowledge and combine it with what a trout needs. And we eventually have a truly specific, knowledgeable approach to reading a river. Day to day, across the world, wherever trout live in rivers, creeks and streams, their needs are the same.My friends, Matt Grobe, Bill Dell, Dr. Trevor Smith and Austin Dando join me for a great discussion.ResourcesVIDEO: Troutbitten | Reading Water in Levels, Lanes and SeamsPODCAST: Troutbitten | Reading Water, and Cherry Picking vs Full Coverage S1, Ep6READ: Troutbitten | Reading Water - Finding the Invisible PotholesVisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thanks to TroutRoutes:Use the code TROUTBITTEN for 20% off your membership athttps://maps.troutroutes.com Thanks to SkwalaUse the code, TROUTBITTEN10 for 10% off your order athttps://skwalafishing.com/

#752B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/752B  Presented by: Fish The Fly If you've ever wanted to escape the summer crowds and get into Western Wyoming fly fishing, this episode is for you. I sat down with Jason "JB" Balogh from Fish the Fly Guide Service in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. JB shares what it's like to hike into the high-country creeks around the Tetons to target cutthroat trout on dry flies. We talk about the gear, flies, techniques, and everything you need to know for a backcountry fly fishing adventure. Plus, JB walks us through some of the bigger water options like the Snake and Green Rivers, and even throws in a few local tips—like where to get the best waffle after a tram ride. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/752B  

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/752 Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing,  On DeMark Lodge, Mountain Waters Resort Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What if the river rose, the wind calmed, and a 30-inch brown slid into view—would you be ready? Deep in the heart of Argentina's Patagonia, chances like this don't come often. Today, we're heading south to chase migratory browns in crystal-clear water and find out what it takes to hook up when it matters most. Ron Sorenson, owner of Chocolate Lab Expeditions, takes us inside the Limay River—where trout hit like steelhead, driftboats rule, and the hatches are still sacred. You'll hear when to go, how to fish it, and why this might just be the most dynamic trout river in the Southern Hemisphere. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/752

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with casting expert Mac Brown for another enlightening installment of Casting Angles. The duo reflects on their busy schedules, with Mac sharing insights from his recent casting and guide schools while Marvin prepares for a family milestone—his son's college graduation. They dive into the theme of efficiency in fly fishing, emphasizing the importance of keeping your fly in the water to maximize your chances of catching fish.Mac breaks down essential techniques for improving casting efficiency, discussing the common pitfalls of 'yank syndrome' and the importance of line control. Listeners will learn how to effectively fish different water angles and maximize their drifts, as Mac explains the significance of working with the current rather than against it. With practical tips on casting techniques, including the circle pickup and up-down cast, this episode is packed with valuable advice for both novice and experienced anglers alike.Whether you're gearing up for the spring fishing season or looking to refine your skills, this episode is a treasure trove of insights that will inspire you to get out on the water. Don't miss it!All Things Social MediaFollow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the Show Shop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the PodcastIs our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?Check out our consulting options!

In this episode of the Hunt Fish Travel Podcast, I am chatting with Landon Hintz, owner of Whiskey Rivers Fly Fishing. We dive into the world of smallmouth float fishing in Wisconsin and talk about what makes it so unique. Landon shares how using inflatable boats opens up access to rocky rivers that traditional boats just cannot navigate. We talk about the thrill of catching smallmouth bass, known for being athletic fighters and a ton of fun on the line. Landon explains how float fishing creates a more accessible and exciting experience, especially for beginners looking to get into bass fishing. Throughout the conversation, we touch on the migration patterns of smallmouth bass. In spring, they hang out in deeper, slower water, while in the summer they move into the shallows. Landon also shares some helpful tips on fly selection, suggesting bigger flies in the spring and topwater flies once summer rolls around. We also dig into fish growth and conservation. It takes years for a smallmouth bass to reach trophy size, making education around conservation practices incredibly important. This was such a fun conversation that really highlights how much joy you can find in chasing different species and why bass fishing should be on every angler's radar. 00:00 Introduction to Float Fishing and Smallmouth Bass 09:53 Techniques and Strategies for Bass Fishing 20:05 Understanding Bass Migration Patterns 30:23 Conclusion and Resources for Aspiring Anglers Links: Whiskey Rivers Fly Fishing Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers Subscribe to the show - and don't forget to leave a 5 star review! Spotify - Subscribe Here Apple Podcasts - Subscribe Here Amazon Music - Subscribe Here iHeart Radio - Subscribe Here Audible - Subscribe Here New! Watch on YouTube! Subscribe here!

Fly fishing on the native brook trout streams in May brings many opportunities as there are several hatches occurring. The Light Cahill hatch The post Fly Fishing in May for Trout and Bass appeared first on The View From Harry's Window - A Fly Fishing Blog.

I've had a number of guests on the podcast teaching us about urban fly fishing and it will be an ongoing process because everyone has different takes on how to approach it.  There is nothing better than a few hours of peace before or after work, without needing to drive for hours, and you can find it, even in the middle of our largest cities.  My guest Greg DeMars [40:25] specializes in the urban fisheries around Dallas, Texas, but the tips he offers are valuable for any urban area throughout North America—and probably beyond.  Urban fishing can be exciting and interesting and challenging—it's not just about trout or permit!   In the Fly Box this week, I thought we had some unusually interesting questions, including: Will you ever have a podcast on targeting yellow perch on a fly rod? Is there any need for a "shorty" Euro line if I want to Euro nymph with my regular weight-forward line?  Can't I just attach a very long leader? Are swimming holes "fish-free" zones or are they worth targeting in early season before the swimmers arrive? Where can I find Orvis BigEye hooks? When I fish in fast water I have problems shooting line because my excess line gets carried away by the current.  I don't want to use a stripping basket.  Is there another solution? I never use tippet, only leader material.  Do I need special tippet? What knot would you recommend instead of the Perfection Loop? I have problems catching flying insects over a trout stream and my hat doesn't work.  What would you suggest? How do you tell what fish are feeding on under the surface? Can you elaborate a bit on why you should make your first cast count?  How important is that and how do I do it without making a few bad casts first? When tying nymphs, I have trouble getting CDC to wind evenly.  And I don't like using a dubbing loop.  Any tips on how to make my CDC flies look better? What tips or recommendations do you have for getting into fly tying? 

Catching fish on a dry fly is like MAGIC -- when it actually happens.  As much fun as dry fly fishing can be, it also presents some unique challenges you have to overcome. You need to find your fly after you cast it, you need to make an accurate cast, and none of that matters if you don't have the right fly in the first place.  This week on Untangled, Spencer Durrant covers ten of the most important (and frequently asked) dry fly questions we get here at VFC. You'll learn about everything from improving your drift and presentation, to tricks for setting the hook on small flies.  You'll also learn about:  The importance of tapered leaders, and why you NEED these  The leader setup Spencer recommends for streamer fishing Tips for improving the rigging up process so you can spend more time fishing  LINKS FROM THE SHOW Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE #LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE Get the FREE Right Fly eBook - CHECK IT OUT VIDEO - How to Fly Fish with Terrestrials - CHECK IT OUT  

Here's  a topic that starts with an interesting question: What puts more trout in the net? Is it knowing your water or knowing your tactics?Of course, the easy answer is . . . both. Refine your skills and learn your rivers. Then put all of that together, and you have a great formula, not only for catching trout but for having a lot of fun.The truth is, as frequent anglers we're always involved in improving. It goes way beyond filling the fly box with new patterns. We know our deficiencies, and we're working to fix them. We also know you can only really tackle one thing at a time. So if you're out there fishing, or maybe even on the way to your next fishing trip, what are you working on? Really, what will put more fish in the net? Is it better to focus on the tactics and techniques, or is it better to learn the river itself? Basically, that means reading water better and finding fish.So we're looking forward to this discussion. It's a good concept, and we all have some opinions.My friends, Matt Grobe, Bill Dell and Austin Dando join me for a great discussion.ResourcesPODCAST: Troutbitten | How Woodsmanship Catches Fish - S11, Ep6VIDEO: Troutbitten | Reading Water in Levels, Lanes and SeamsREAD: Troutbitten | Read Trout WaterREAD: Troutbitten | Fish Familiar Waters VisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thank You to Pre-Roll Ad Sponsors:SkwalaandOrvis

Here are twelve tips for delivering a fly into waters that are heavily canopied, with greedy branches, ready to grab your fly and make life difficult. The best small stream fishing happens in these places. We call it brush fishing.Learning to cast a fly on small streams forces an angler into proper form. There is no forgiveness, and every error comes with consequences.But the reward is there. Small streams demand real accuracy. We learn to punch the fly under limbs and around tree stumps. And we learn to finish the cast with intentional placement of the leader, most often with slack, sometimes laying the line over a log, rock or gravel bar.Small stream trout are often forgiving, but the environments are not. The brush demands our full attention and excellent form.Here's the VIDEO version of this podcast:VIDEO: Troutbitten | Riverside -- Twelve Small Stream Fly Casting TipsHere's the ARTICLE:READ: Troutbitten | Twelve Small Stream Fly Casting Tips VisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thank You to Pre-Roll Ad Sponsors:SkwalaandOrvis

# 749 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/749 Presented By: Four Wheel Campers Today, we catch up with Ryan Burch, high school pottery teacher by day, and adventurer behind Tales of the 48 by summer. Ryan is gearing up for the ultimate fly fishing road trip in his fully loaded Four Wheel Camper. He's aiming to connect with fish, places, and people across the country—starting this summer with the eastern U.S. You'll hear how Ryan is making this dream happen with help from Orvis, Four Wheel Campers, and a camera crew that includes his little sister and his dog. He shares his travel and packing tips, how he's organizing life on the road, and what it means to balance ambition with simplicity. From Florida Keys permit dreams to noodling catfish in the South—this episode is packed with the kind of stories that inspire you to get out and explore your own backyard. # 749 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/749

Have you ever been casting to a trout that's acting as cantankerous as a toddler who missed his nap? You've tried EVERYTHING, but nothing will get the fish to calm down, eat your fly, and spend a few minutes in your net.  What do you do in that situation? Pack up and go home? Admit defeat - yet again - to an animal with the brain the size of a strawberry?  Well, after this week's episode of Untangled, you'll have another trick to try.  This episode shares ten fly patterns that most anglers overlook. When the chips are down and the fish refuse to cooperate, these are the flies you can turn to.  You'll also learn about:  Sink-tip fly lines, and the best lines to use when fishing streamers in a river What to do when you're fishing a dry-dropper rig, but the fish aren't rising very much What flies are categorized as mayflies Some tips for fishing a dry-dropper rig effectively The differences between stocked and wild trout  LINKS FROM THE SHOW Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE #LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE VIDEO - How We Fly Fish with Nymphs - CHECK IT OUT VIDEO - Fly Selection Master Class: Mayflies 101 - CHECK IT OUT PODCAST - Fly Fishing's Most Important Fly - CHECK IT OUT VIDEO - Fly Selection Master Class - CHECK IT OUT

As the rivers begin to wake up from winter and the fish get hungry, spring offers some of the best opportunities of the year to improve your fly fishing game. In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we're sharing practical tips to help you shake off the winter rust and make the most of the upcoming season.We start with casting—because let's face it, most of us haven't picked up a rod in a while. From roll casts to single hauls, we walk through simple ways to practice in your yard, how to set targets, and even why filming yourself can help. This segment is all about making those casts count once you're back on the water.Next up: weather apps. Springtime in the South means fast-changing conditions, and a good weather app can be the difference between a memorable day on the water and one you'd rather forget. We share a story about getting caught in a sudden hailstorm (hint: don't ignore the friendly cabin folks when they invite you out of the rain) and offer tips for timing your day to avoid the worst of the wind and crowds.Finally, we talk about paying attention to what's changed since winter. High water events can move gravel bars, create new feeding lanes, and shift resting spots. We explain how to read these changes to find fish more effectively—and why being observant (or as we call it, “observating”) is one of the best tools in your kit this spring.Whether you're brushing up your cast, watching the sky, or scanning the riverbed, these tips will help you start the season strong. Sign up for our newsletter, follow the show, and we'll see you on the water.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this first episode of a special two-part series, Waypoints heads to the heart of the Central Pacific to explore one of the most legendary destinations in saltwater fly fishing — Christmas Island. Host Jim Klug is joined by Bryant Dunn of Christmas Island Lodge for a deep dive into the rich history of the atoll, the evolution of its world-renowned fishery, and why this remote destination continues to captivate anglers from around the globe. Together, they unpack the fascinating backstory of Kiritimati — from its early Polynesian visitors and strategic wartime role to its emergence as a top-tier flyfishing hotspot.Listeners can expect an informative and detailed conversation that brings to life the story behind Christmas Island's rise as a must-visit destination. Bryant and Jim also share insights into the challenges and rewards of running an off-the-grid lodge operation, the role of fly fishing tourism for the local Kiribati economy, and what makes the Christmas Island experience truly unique. Whether you're planning your first trip to the famous atoll or simply dreaming of casting to bonefish and giant trevally on expansive Pacific flats, this episode sets the stage for an unforgettable look at one of fly fishing's most iconic locations (with  more to come in Part Two).Waypoints is brought to you by PatagoniaTo bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world's most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They're made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.- Follow us on Instagram- Follow us on Facebook- Check out our YouTube Page- View the official Yellow Dog website ...

Across the country, there are rivers, creeks and streams stocked by the state,  often referred to as put and take (they put trout in, you take them out). And especially early in the season, opportunities for stocked trout can be a solid choice. Other places stock fish under catch and release regs or delayed harvest. Also, some rivers, for various reasons, cannot support wild trout populations and they are entirely reliant on hatchery trout. In other places, it's a mix of wild and stocked.Troutbitten has always been primarily focused on fishing for wild trout. Because most anglers would more often choose a wild or natural experience over a manufactured one. So I use the word, experience, because not only are stocked fish produced or raised in a hatchery, once they're in the river, the experience of fishing for stockies is usually pretty different than fishing for wild trout. And that . . . is what we want to talk about in this conversation.In other podcasts, we've already talked a lot about the value differences between wild vs stocked trout. We've gone through the hierarchy of river trout, as we put it.So upon that foundation, in continuation of those discussions, let's talk about how our approach changes when the trout are stocked and not wild. Let's think about water selection, patterns, strategies, and the other things that make fishing for stocked trout more successful. What changes and what is different compared to targeting wild trout?My friends, Matt Grobe, Bill Dell and Trevor Smith, join me for a great discussion.ResourcesPODCAST: Troutbitten | Wild vs Stocked - The Hierarchy of River TroutREAD: Troutbitten | When Fishing For Stocked Trout, It May Not Pay to Be AmbitiousREAD: Troutbitten | Natural vs Attractive Presentations - Convinced or Curious VisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thank You to Pre-Roll Ad Sponsors:SkwalaandOrvis

#746 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/746 Presented By:  On DeMark Lodge, Intrepid Camp Gear Would you board a 9-hour flight to catch trout in Patagonia or brave a three-hour mule ride into a river camp in Chile—all for the chance to fish water most people will never see? Today we're joined by Chris Hunt, longtime fly fishing writer and co-founder of Hatch Adventure Travel. Chris shares what it takes to plan bucket-list fly fishing trips around the world, from the Missouri River and Idaho's backcountry to Cuba, Argentina, and British Columbia. We'll get his best travel hacks, hear how Hatch Travel started in the middle of a global shutdown, and why he says nobody should pack three rods to the Yukon. You'll also hear stories from one of the most underappreciated fly-out lodges in North America, his favorite Bloody Mary airports, and the night the Northern Lights danced above Muncho Lake. Plus, Chris shares how Hatch offsets 150% of their clients' carbon emissions and why it's time to fish smarter, travel lighter, and still go big. Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

#745 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/745 Presented By: Jackson Hole Fly Company, On DeMark Lodge The Fly Fishing Film Tour started with a small group of anglers looking for something fresh. Today, these films are part of a new wave of storytelling in fly fishing. Our guest, RA Beattie, has been there since the beginning. In this episode, RA shares his journey and highlights from his films, including The Silent Spotter, a story about a deaf guide. We also dive into his connection with Clyde the Car and how he stays motivated despite changes in the industry. Plus, we'll learn how he built a company making sustainable wood for guitars. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/745

What's your favorite fly rod? This most frequently asked question now has its answer in the Troutbitten Riverside Series. Riverside is a place for sharing and presenting stories and articles from the Troutbitten website. And one of the most popular articles at Troutbitten has been about the qualities to look for in a rod well suited for the Mono Rig.This past winter, I wrote the manuscript for my upcoming book, Fly Fishing the Mono Rig. And I adapted the fly rod article into a full chapter for the book. And as I was finishing that chapter, I knew I wanted to present this as a Riverside video.Here it is . . .ResourcesREAD: Troutbitten | The Best Fly Rods for the Mono Rig, Tight Line and Euro Nymphing — My Favorite RodsVIDEO: Troutbitten | RIVERSIDE: The Best Fly Rods for the Mono Rig VisitTroutbitten WebsiteTroutbitten InstagramTroutbitten YouTubeTroutbitten Facebook Thank You to Pre-Roll Ad Sponsors:SkwalaandOrvis

  It's always interesting to find out that public figures can be as obsessed with fly fishing as we are. People like Harrison Ford, Jeff Daniels, Tucker Carlson, Bette Midler, Jimmy Kimmel, and Dick Cheney are all serious fly fishers. (And no, I don't have any of them on tap for my podcast). But Rahm Emanuel [37:25] is a dedicated listener to this podcast, and when I had a chance to interview him I took it. There is no politics in this podcast interview—just a fanatic fly fisher who talks about why he loves it, how he finds time in his busy life to go fly fishing, and what excites him the most about it. This was a lively and fun interview with a fair amount of good-natured ribbing.    In the Fly Box this week I have no voice files to play (hint, hint) but lots of great e-mails with interesting questions and a few tips from listeners, including: A listener looks for advice on how to carry his fishing gear on a plane. How do I fish plunge pools? Why don't I catch anything in the deep spot below the waterfall? What rods do I need for fishing both small streams in Smoky Mountain streams and steelhead fishing in Ohio? A listener gives advice on the Orvis Dropper Rig Fly Box and why you need to check local regulations before you use a 3-fly rig. A listener relates a story of his great customer service experience Why did trout smash my size 20 dry fly but not connect? Will smallmouth bass and rainbow trout hold in the same water? What knots do you recommend for different presentations and why? What is the best way to get my fly under the mangroves without hanging up?