Casting Across Fly Fishing

Opening Day. For generations, this was a high holiday among anglers. With the success of resource management programs and special regulations, year-round fishing is available for most of us. Still, there are some reasons to circle a particular date on the calendar. In this Cast1 episode, I walk through some of the reasons why opening day should still be held in high regard. I also list a few things new (and seasoned) fly fishers should pay attention to before they hit the water and a couple of things they should be thinking about when they encounter spring conditions. Regardless of if you're just getting into fly fishing or you can remember "when opening day meant something," you'll find something in this episode to enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recently I hit the "50" mark on my fly fishing book review series on YouTube. I've filmed myself doing "show and tell" with over 60 books, and it has been a lot of fun. Today on the podcast, I talk about some thoughts (five, to be precise) I have on reading fly fishing books. There is a whole lot more that I could share, but this is a nice little synopsis of some questions I've fielded and some observations I've made. If you haven't yet, subscribe to Casting Across on YouTube. And it goes without saying: get reading! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love questions. And you should too. Never feel dumb for asking a good question. That said, I'm also happy if I can give you some information on the front end so that you can ask an even better and more applicable question. Since a good chunk of the fly fishing questions I field pertain to fly rods, I've put together a whole page on Casting Across dealing with the most frequently asked questions. I try to answer them succinctly on the site. But today I'm elaborating a little bit. I'm taking on three questions that I've received countless times. Maybe they'll answer your questions. Or maybe they'll spur you on to ask something else. Either way, I'm happy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With over 1,600 pieces of content at the time of this episode's recording, navigating the Casting Across website might be a little daunting. But the depth and breadth of what is available is worth clicking through. Today's podcast is meant to help you in that endeavor. Knowing that there isn't a perfect overlap of podcast listeners and website readers, I introduce the content on the site. Then, I walk through some of the features that can help you find the most pertinent information in the quickest way possible. And, since I'm certainly not the web expert, I ask for your feedback in a few places. It is a quick listen, but hopefully it sends you down a rabbit hole of angling articles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Like many a dace that have taken aa dry fly, only to get hook-set into the streamside vegetation - I bit off more than I could chew last week on the podcast. When I thought about talking predatory fish, I figured I could shoehorn carp into the discussion. They aren't predators in the same way musky and big largemouth are. However, the rods and rivers overlap. Regardless, this is an episode where I make things right. Which, of course, entails talking about carp for nearly 30 minutes. These weirdo, invasive fish are worth knowing about if you are in North American and own a fly rod. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In fly fishing, "predators" is a bit of an arbitrary designation. Why? Well, bluegill are predators. Brook trout are predators. Tiger sharks are predators. What we often mean is the larger, piscivorous (fish eating) freshwater species in North America. Today I'm talking about some of the considerations one might make when thinking about gear for larger bass and toothy fish. As you can imagine, this includes a wide range of species and waters. Still, there are some general principles that all come into play when acquiring equipment for targeting predatory fish. Also, I throw carp a bone. I mean, they do get big. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is that time again. You ask, I answer. I like these episodes so much, that I do one every few months. Today I interact with questions regarding: Fly line choices Fly rod action Fly fishing footwear And I transcend my normal 3 topic boundary by addressing two logistical/technical items. As always, please don't hesitate to reach out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This may very well be the longest episode of the podcast yet. And it could have been longer if I mentioned every interesting conversation, unique piece of gear, or novel observation from my four days at The Fly Fishing Show. In this quick look back at my weekends in Marlborough, MA, and Edison, NJ, I talk about presentations, products, and people. And at the end of the day, it is the people that made the time at the events the most worthwhile. Whether you're planning on going to an event, or you simply want to hear which "stuff" I found to be noteworthy - give this week's installment a listen. Then go chase down some of my recommendations online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two whole podcast episodes devoted to how fly fishers can be lazy? Oh yes. And I could do a handful more just on those issues I see in myself. Recently I defined laziness as choosing to not do what you know you should do. If the goal is catching fish, why would you only try 95%? or 50% Certainly, you shouldn't be bothered by being skunked if that is the case. Today I highlight three more things anyone can and should do when fly fishing. Whether we do it or not is another story... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We don't talk enough about how much of a problem laziness is. That goes for people and society as a whole. But, of course, today I'm talking about how laziness is not the friend of the fly fisher. If you're being lazy, it means you know better. It means you can do what you should do but you choose not to do that. Why? It is easier not to. In this episode I walk through three issues where you might be a little lazy in your fly fishing. While I can say that I don't err in one of these topics, talking about the other two was a little bit convicting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is a snippet from one of the presentations that I give at The Fly Fishing Show. It is about a third shorter and you don't get the benefit of PowerPoint slides, but the content promised to be quite helpful for the small stream angler. Why? If you primarily fish small streams, there might be some trepidation over heading out to the larger rivers. Sprawling waterways can be intimidating when you're used to being able to cast bank to bank. However, the skills and observations you make on the smaller creeks can easily be translated to the bigger rivers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if I told you that if you think that outdoor shows are all about spending money that you've got it all wrong? Sure, there are opportunities to shell out wads of cash. But you can also support small businesses. In fact, some of them are so small that they might not even technically be a business! Beyond that, there is a lot to see in person that you may otherwise only experience through the cold, distant medium of YouTube. And whether you're in a giant convention center or the local VFW hall, there are probably people there that are worth taking a few minutes to meet. Why? They're into the same things you are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear me out: I am not saying everyone can or should practice fly casting indoors. But if you can, why not? In today's episode I am really discussing how a lot of us would benefit from more and more diverse fly casting practice. Although it is essential to practice casting under ideal circumstances, it makes a whole lot of sense to also practice in realistic settings. Can you always face your target? Are you always able to go 10-to-2? Is it always feasible to fully pivot your hips while double hauling? The answer is no. So go ahead and prepare for those situations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy New Year from Casting Across! ...but keep listening, even if it is May or September. Why? If you resolve to do something that matters, don't wait. Just make it happen. Today I share a few interesting things about Casting Across. Then I walk through five resolutions, goals, and ideas for fly fishing in 2026. And they're not particular to me, either. These are the kinds of things you can think about if you're staring down a new year. There also ways to enrich your season regardless of when you consider them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Merry Christmas from Casting Across! On this short holiday episode, I read from the 1883 edition of Fishing With the Fly. This prominent work was compiled and sold by none other than Charles F. Orvis. In this essay there are some wonderfully quaint ideas. But there are also some incredibly pertinent proverbs. As is the case with all good writing, it stands the test of time. Sit back with a creamy eggnog and enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the lessons I learned too late in my fly fishing was that trout live in places that aren't labeled "trout water." Although I love and appreciate the fly fishing only, catch and release streams that are out there, they only represent a fraction of the excellent trout fishing that is available. If you limit yourself to a type of river you're missing out. Even streams that don't have any special regulations and allow for the harvest of multiple trout can be great options for the catch and release angler. Today I approach the topic of regulated water from a general perspective. Take what I say, check out your local regulations, and then pull up a map. Find fish wherever they may be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't get scammed. I don't sound like anyone (I think). Combat fishing is a choice. Those three short sentences sum up this edition of my regular "Fly Fishing Accusations" podcast. You ask questions, make comments, and level accusations about those things I've written and/or said. I respond. I think it is an awful lot of fun. You might, too. So give it a listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back into the Cast1 series of episodes. Each focuses on basic information pertaining to some aspect of fly fishing. But just because it is "basic" doesn't mean the content is only for beginners. A surprising number of anglers don't venture out in the coldest months. On one hand it makes sense: it is cold. On the other hand, there are fish to be caught! Even seasoned fly fishers will admit they haven't dabbled in casting when the air temp is lower than the water temp. Today I quickly cover an overview of the why, how, where, and what of winter fly fishing. Plus, I give a half dozen resources for going deeper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A short blurb for a short episode: As I have done for a few years, I'm taking time this Thanksgiving week to share some things for which I'm thankful. Since you're listening to my podcast, there is a good chance that you'll be able to relate in some way, shape, or form. Hopefully, you are having/have had a great Thanksgiving. We have much to be grateful for, and ought to be in the business of expressing that gratitude regularly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Notice that this is not the "2025 Official Fly Fishing List of Products." Those are all fine and good. But I'm doing something just a little bit different this season. Today I'm sharing five ways to think about gift giving (or gift requesting). These categories of gifts run the gamut from flies to personalized matted prints; destination excursions to angling-themed rocks glasses. With a little thought, there is genuinely something for everyone. And after all, isn't it the thought that counts? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is just a net. Yes. But it is more than just a net when you need to land that big fish. Today I walk through a few net basics: shapes, sizes, materials. I also discuss a few techniques, best practices, and ways to carry your net. This is one of those topics that is really basic. But for someone who has only ever done one thing, or for the new angler, this information can truly be helpful as you head out to the water... or put together a wish list. Don't sleep on a nice custom net for a luxury gift for the angler who has everything! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heat, cold, and high water make fly fishing tricky. Wind makes fly fishing downright difficult. The physics of a fly cast and windy conditions are at odds with one another, impacting our particular kind of angling in a very specific manner. Without denying the challenge of fishing in the wind, I want to share three simple steps to mitigate the effects of blustery air on your fly line. There is nothing new or novel here. However, there is the encouragement that a sustained breeze doesn't mean you have to head home (or bust out the spoons and jigs). Oh, and stop blaming the wind for the knots that your tailing loops cause. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, I'm still here. Ten years after putting a little orange and grey website about fly fishing together I continue to do my darndest with three posts a week on the people, places, and things that go into the pursuit of fish. On this week's "very special episode" I share some reflections on what this decade has meant. There has been some work, some fishing, and a lot of great memories made. Hopefully, it will encourage you: encourage you with fly fishing, with this crazy niche culture we have, and with any ambitions for creativity you might be considering. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are confidence flies? Of course, it is a thing people say. But is it a real thing? I maintain that it is. And these flies don't only give you a leg up when you're fishing them: I think that we can learn a lot about how to fish any and every fly if we pay attention to how we're fishing our confidence flies. So while the topic might seem a bit philosophical or abstract, there is truly something to explore for a few minutes. After all, would you rather fish with confidence or with apprehension? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After perusing a handful of books about tying and fishing midges, and in anticipation of turning to these tiny flies for much of my winter angling, I thought I'd share a potpourri of midge information today. While even tying them on might seem like a chore, the part that midges play in most trout diets makes them impossible to ignore. Even the biggest fish will gorge themselves on bugs that match a size 28 fly pattern. Getting comfortable with fishing these flies goes a long way. And today I discuss some of the tying, fishing, and storage tips that have helped me over the decades. Whether you're a believer in midges or not, listen and get excited about angling with the smallest flies out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is awfully nice to be the first one to unwrap the plastic from a smooth cork handle or to wipe the excess factory grease from a disc drag. It is also nice to save a few hundred bucks. In this installment of Casting Across, I'm talking about finding and evaluating used gear. I'm focusing primarily on rods and reels, but the principles apply to pretty much anything the angler might need. Buying used can be a great way to snag a good deal. And, as I explain, not all "used" fishing gear has actually been used. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's podcast features a question, an accusation (maybe), and a response to a dozen or so comments. All in less than 25 minutes! I discuss "traditional" nymphing tactics and encourage you that you already fish this way. Then, I field a statement made about how we cut the tag end off our knots. Lastly, I take a quick dive into a topic that transcends all others. The thing is, each and every one of these segments is very "Casting Across." It all feels squarely within the wheelhouse of what I do here. As always, I appreciate any and all interaction with my readers, listeners, and viewers. Please don't hesitate to reach out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maybe you've noticed that there are a lot of books about fly fishing. You needn't have consumed the loads of literary content on Casting Across to know that fly fishing and writing go together. Whether it be gripping narratives, applicable techniques, or pertinent stream guides, a book will help you in some way, shape, or form with your fly fishing. And they go a long way in tethering us to one another and the anglers who came before us. In this Cast1 installment of the podcast, I share some recommendations from the aforementioned categories for new anglers. Even if you've been doing this for a while, there should be something for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I enjoy putting together gear reviews. Not only is it interesting for me to think about how a particular piece of equipment works, but my perspective might help someone make a purchase that benefits their time outdoors. And in my humble opinion, there is no item more fun to review than fly rods. Today I walk through how I go about putting a fly rod review together. I approach the process in a particular way, with a handful of different variables in mind. I also share how I'll never be able to provide the depth of information some other platforms do. Still, I do think that my two cents are worth taking into consideration as you go on to spend your hard-earned hundreds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Outdoor activities are inherently risky. While your home is likely where you're going to get hurt or run into trouble, being in wild places can lead to potential hazards. Some have to do with critters. Most have to do with other people. Even though there is a small chance of something problematic happening if you're on the river, there is still a small chance. With a few simple steps you can do a lot to mitigate those risks and pursue your hobbies with confidence and not fear. Plus, I start out the podcast discussing peace and meaning in fly fishing, the outdoors, and everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not all fly fishing presentations can be bushy dry flies over trout that will range five feet to rise with abandon. Because of the ridiculous quantity of foodstuffs in most rivers, fish are looking for a reasonable offering that is within a few inches of their noses. And since fish live underwater that means nymphs drifting at the right depth. Getting all that to happen involves more than experimenting with split shot. In fact, I'd like to offer up an approach where a cast-altering weight is the last ditch effort. Today I share five things I like to think about when it comes to getting your fly down deep in tricky scenarios. And as per usual, they involve using your head a lot more than your tackle box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I own some positively diminutive fly rods for angling in the mountains. And I revel in the plethora of options when it comes to 9-foot 4-, 5-, and 6-weights. But every once in a while the right tool for the job is just a little bit longer. Today I share four reasons why a longer fly rod might be the ticket for your fly fishing. That might mean taking a 9-footer up in the mountains, or that might entail fishing with a 9'6" rod. The reality is that rod length can really impact your cast and your presentation. If circumstances deem a different piece of equipment, it might be worth considering switching up your most important angling tool. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I like questions. When I get the same question a handful of times in quick succession, that topic gets shifted to the top of the subject matter pile. Recently, a number of fine fly fishing folk have asked me about what I consider to be the essential gear for minimalism or travel. In this episode I give my answer. But before I go over the what I discuss the why. This is because your reasoning for carrying less may necessitate a completely different loadout than what I bring with me when I travel or stash gear in my car. A fun topic to think about, consider why and what you bring with you when you want or have to move lightly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some hot weather and a spur of the moment decision turned into an excellent 24 hours of father-and-sons fly fishing time. In this episode, I talk about the great time that my boys and I had in Manchester, Vermont. The occasion was the American Museum of Fly Fishing's Summer Festival. There were vendors, exhibits, and competitions. (And there was food.) Needless to say, a good time was had by all. This is the kind of event that isn't fly fishing... but it is a quintessential to fly fishing culture. Hear about our time and make plans to attend something similar near you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If there is one truism in fly fishing, it is this: Everyone can work on their casting accuracy and distance. In fact, the more I develop as a fly caster the more I see room for improvement in these areas. Today I share my thoughts on two ways to think about improving your fly casting. Neither necessarily costs money, and neither will take much time to consider. But with a few tweaks you'll probably see some marginal improvement. As always, something like fly casting is best discussed in person with rod in hand. Hopefully this episode will get you outside playing around and talking to those who can help you grow as an angler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I have two - yes, two - bona fide accusations. Now, I assume they were made with the best intentions. Still, I do appreciate the opportunity to interact with a little pushback. One has to do with mountain trout fishing and the other pertains to fallfish. My two favorite topics. I also share how I'm prone to sarcasm. As always, I appreciate all my readers, listeners, and viewers. Please keep the feedback coming! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just because you put a fly rod in a baby's hands doesn't mean he'll grow up to be a fly fisher. But in the case of my eldest son, it is working thirteen years in. Recently he asked to go on a fishing trip to one of the places I fished most as a teenager. That got a quick yes from me. Although we had some inclement weather (not our choice) and fished some challenging water (our choice), we had a great time. As has been my practice on these milestone episodes, I invite a special guest on the podcast for a conversation. Hear about a historical fly fishing region and special father & son trip this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is ridiculous that I even need to write it, but please know that content on Casting Across comes from a regular, old human being. I have nothing against robots... in fact I want them all to know I really appreciate them when they eventually take over. Seriously though: there is a lot of fly fishing writing out there that is actually AI generated. I don't think it is prideful to say that Casting Across is better than that. Today I am tapping into an interesting aspect of artificial intelligence. I received an email from a company offering aggregated data from feedback to the website and social media platforms. Out of curiosity, I'm responding to four of their suggestions on today's podcast. You tell me: are the robots accurately representing you, the audience? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In what is effectively a trip report from my most recent jaunt down to Virginia, I cover all the topics in the episode's title and more. I don't assume that you have a vested interest in what I do in my leisure time... well, aside from fly fishing. However, I do think that you and I have a lot in common. At a bare minimum, we can enjoy that together. Potentially something I did will give you some ideas for what you can do. That said, I did have a wonderful time with family for the better part of two weeks this summer. My hope is that you can say the same. With a few fish sprinkled in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Times have changed... I think. It doesn't seem like there is the same kind of animosity from fly fishers directed towards folks tossing worms and lures. While there are some real potential problems with certain types of fishing (deep-hooking with treble hooks, litter from bait containers, etc.), there is no reason to vilify an entire group. More pragmatically, there is no reason to jettison an entire approach to catching fish. Today I'm sharing three reasons why you might want to pick up a spinning rod. While I primarily fly fish, a spinning combo is in my hand around 5% of the time I'm on the water. You may use one less; you might use one more. Regardless, it is a good idea to know your options. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the simple joys of fishing in the summer is walking into a creek in shoes and shorts. It doesn't give you any kind of angling advantage, but it is awfully satisfying. And while the simplicity and carefree nature of wet wading shouldn't force you into making all sorts of purchases, there are a few things that are worth choosing if you want a more comfortable and safe experience. Today I'm talking about some of the options you can choose. Focusing on footwear, bottoms, and gear storage, I walk through the pros and cons of the most popular choices. Again: the fish aren't going to care. But your feet and the rest of your body might appreciate the gesture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trout are trout, right? Especially if two brookies or cutthroat are swimming only a few hundred yards from each other, they're going to behave, eat, and look the same. Right? Maybe. But if you're talking about a fish in a mountain stream versus a fish in the mountain lake that feeds said stream? Maybe not. Mountain trout ponds or lakes offer some beautiful, fun, and diverse angling options for fly fishers on the east or west coast. Just like any other facet of fishing, understanding approach and presentation in these unique ecosystems is the ticket for success. Today I cover technique and gear in general, broad strokes. Hopefully it gives you some perspective and the curiosity to learn more... at home and on the water. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can catch so many panfish with the flies in your trout fly box. So many. In fact, give me a well stocked trout fly box over a typical panfish fly assortment any day. But... having some of those poppers helps. And make sure there are a few leggy nymphs. Oh, and a couple of crayfish-looking streamers. Today I round out a two-part series of panfish fly fishing gear ideas. They're such a fun group of fish to pursue, and for many that fun is amplified when you have gear that works and works well. If we're honest? Rods, reels, and flies are fun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You absolutely can (and should) fish for panfish with whatever gear you own. Fish for trout, stripers, and peacock bass with whatever gear you already own, for that matter. Of course, you'll have a slightly easier and more enjoyable time if you have equipment that is either specifically designed for the particular pursuit or within a relatively appropriate spectrum. And while panfish have a low bar for angling entry, a focused effort benefits from some wise gear choices. In this first part of a two-part podcast, I explore what some of the considerations should be as you pick fly fishing gear for bluegill, sunfish, and their friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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