Casting Across Fly Fishing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Allow me to modify a common saying among preachers. Every angler has three fishing trips: the one he plans, the one he goes on, and the one he wished he would have had. Not super smooth, but you get the gist. On a recent four day fishing trip, I thought about the preparations and plans that I had going into things. Some were much more helpful and practical than others. Four of those are the topic of the discussion on the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 episodes away from 300, and I couldn't have done it without you. And when it comes to these regular "Accusations" podcasts, I literally couldn't do it without you. Because every 10 episodes, I interact with questions and comments from listeners and readers. Emails have been coming in fast lately. It was hard to pick just three, so I went with a relatively mixed bag: gear questions, fly suggestions, and a deep trout conspiracy with Biblical ties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All you need to fish is one rod, one reel, one line, and one fly... but it is better to have a few dozen... boxes of them. That said, it isn't the worst thing in the world to have some other gear that can serve a similar purpose. Along with performing in a slightly different manner, this gear can also be a solid backup for if/when something goes wrong on the water. Today I'm sharing my approach to this whole matter. It isn't the most important thing in the world, but taking a minute to make some good decisions will save you some time any money. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is only so much fly fishing practice you can get on your front lawn. And while the surface tension of your pool might help with improving your cast, your children won't take kindly to being asked to pretend to be fish. Thankfully there are rivers filled with fish. And some of these fish are much more likely to play ball than trout are. I would go out of my way to catch panfish. But they can also be used to hone your skills. Today I'm sharing 3 ways I use bluegill, fallfish, and even bass to improve my trout fishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm not talking about how you can throw buzz baits and frogs with your 5-weight. But I'm also drawing a distinction between dry flies and another way to chase trout. Think about fishing with mouse patterns, and you'll understand where I'm going. While I do discuss mice, I cover three other active ways to fish for trout on top of the water. When the hatch isn't on, or the fish don't want your dead-drifted imitation, there are some fun ways to drum up strikes. And when they come, they're usually quite exciting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You need a fly rod to fly fish. Whether it is one hundred or one thousand dollars, you'd do well to have a good idea of which fly rod is best for you and your fishing. The absolute best way to do this? Go to a fly shop and cast. Before you take that step, it is good to have a bit of a foundation to work with. To that end, I've put together a new page on Casting Across entitled "Fly Rod FAQs." Today I'm talking a bit about the reason for the content, and then talking through three questions I've heard numerous times over my years selling rods, teaching casting, and writing about fly fishing gear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes. I know it is a long title. But I like the way it sounds. Today I'm in the midst of planning a fly fishing excursion of my own. So I figured I would share some of the most practical advise I have amassed over the years related to lodging. If you have the means, it is a wonderful experience to stay at a full-service fly fishing resort right on the water. But there are plenty of reasons, economics included, why that might not be an option for everyone. This episode contains 6 quick things to think about that might save you some serious money when it comes to staying somewhere for fishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trout don't live in ugly places is a cute little phrase. But it is not true. I have caught trout in some ug-ly places. Busted concrete abutments, shopping carts, and the growl of engine braking are not what you think when you daydream of fly fishing. But out of necessity or adventure, this alternative ambiance certainly is an option. Today I give an ever-so surface level primer of how to figure out where and how to fish in town, city, or subdivision. You might have to dodge an angry person or some garbage, but you might also have an unforgettable angling excursion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guides do a lot more than put fish on the end of your line. In fact, putting fish on the end of your line is one of those things they can't do. So when they ask questions, give ideas, or encourage the trip to go in a different direction, their expertise is worth leaning into. Today I'm sharing four guide stories. Two are from my perspective as a client, one as a guide, and the last is from a friend with a particularly stubborn client. They're more educational/cautionary tales than anything else, but hopefully they can give some perspective as we're heading into another fishing season. And, potentially time on the water with a guide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

...and a few of them are pretty inexpensive, too. For one reason or another, you might find yourself fly fishing in the kind of weather that isn't found on catalog covers. But there is also a very good chance that such outings yield experiences that you won't forget. By and large, the gear that you have will work when water is high, fast, and coming from the sky. But there are a few things that are really helpful for you to have on hand when the fair-weather anglers are warm and dry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I was blessed to get a week and a half of vacation in one of my favorite places in this world: Virginia's Blue Ridge. Along with general rest and a lot of family time, I was able to get out and do a little bit of fishing. In this week's episode I talk through why this region is special, how I spent my time on the water, and some tactics that you might find useful. On a related note, I usually get some great feedback from others who fish the areas I mention on the podcast. Please reach out and let me know if you have fished or are planning to fish the mountain brooks and spring creeks of central VA! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This installation of "fly fishing accusations" is all about dogmatic opinions. Included are convictions regarding: wading boot soles angling literature the exclusivity claims of Christianity Does that last one sound like it might not fit in with the others? Well, if the feedback I received from a recent article is any indication: it certainly does. Enjoy, and don't hesitate to reach out with your questions, comments, or accusations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The initial Cast1 podcast series is wrapping up this week. The response to the first batch of episodes has been great, and I promise that there will be more podcasts along these lines in the future. Today's episode presents you with some next steps. Whether you're just getting into fly fishing or you've been on the water, rod in hand, for decades, I believe that this advice is equally valid. As always, feel free to reach out with podcast topics or any other questions, comments, or accusations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is fly fishing just you, a rod, and a fish? In one sense, it is. But in a much broader, more realistic way of thinking about things it certainly is not. There are a lot more people doing what you do, and being a part of that culture is not only unavoidable but enriching. Today I cover some important subject matter in the periphery of the fly fishing image. Things like literature and conservation aren't directly in the cast+bug=trout equation, but they have been, are, and will be what makes fly fishing what it is. Whether you've been angling forever or just getting started, it is worth thinking about how you're part of a community of people who happen to like chasing fish with long rods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes: you can fly fish for panfish and bass. Before the seasoned and refined fly fisher scoffs at this question, it is important to realize that this is actually a very common query among new anglers. In an incredibly cursory manner in today's show, I go over how and why the trout angler can and should spend some time on their local pond. The benefits include honing skills. Not to mention, catching a mess of bluegill on a 5-weight is all sorts of fun. As always, check out the back catalog on Casting Across for more info on the subject. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you fly fish for trout, you can fish 12 months out of the year. There are a handful of very important caveats to that statement, but it is true nonetheless. Exceptions aside, it is key to understanding some of the reasons why fishing changes throughout the year and why. In another surface-level introduction, I walk through winter, spring, summer, and fall. Covering what you will encounter and how you might find success, I give you a glimpse at how someone might fish in all but the most extreme weather. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've got a fly rod. You've wrangled a few dozen flies into a box. You've even managed to get a hot tip on where some trout might be found. ...now what? Having all the gear and all the intel won't amount to anything unless you can cast your fly and cast it in the right spot. That is where casting and presentation come in. In an incredibly brief overview of these two pivotal angling topics, I share a few key things you ought to be thinking about as you approach the water. What casting and presentation both have in common is the importance of getting the essentials nailed down followed by quality opportunities for repetition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Water, water everywhere... but is it water worth fly fishing? Today we're asking the question: "Where can I find fish?" The answer has two parts: First, how do you find fishable water? Second, where do you look once you've found a river worth fishing? Books have been written about both of these topics. But this episode will give enough of a head start so that you can get out on the water with a few essential things to look for. Still, it is worth acknowledging that looking for water and reading water are lifetime practices that are part of the fun of fly fishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"How do you put a fly on that thick line?" "Can I just wear my hiking boots over my waders?" These are perfectly honest questions that I've been asked by new fly fishers. Multiple times. Today I talk through some of the other essential fly fishing gear that you need to pursue fish. Once you have a rod, reel, and line, there are still a few more items required. Again: fly fishing isn't all about equipment. But knowing what is necessary and how much it matters helps get you on fish faster with less encumbrances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The fly rod. It is a beautiful, functional, and essential part of fly fishing. But if you're new to the pursuit, the hundreds of options (split into different weights, lengths, actions, and even materials - mind you) can be a lot to take in. Add a reel and line on top of it? That is what they call a "barrier to entry." But it doesn't have to be. First and foremost, a good fly shop will get you set up with what you need at a price close to your budget. On your way to said good fly shop, consider listening to this episode. It is a quick, thousand-foot flyover of the bare essentials of these three core pieces of gear. And trust me: this part of fly fishing becomes fun quickly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cast1 series of the Casting Across Fly Fishing Podcast is all about exploring the fundamentals of fly fishing. In each episode, there will be plenty for newcomers and seasoned anglers alike. Today we're answering these important questions: What makes fly fishing different than regular fishing? Why would someone choose to fly fish? How might fly fishing be your only option? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oh I've got some good emails this week. All thanks to you. I mean, it wouldn't be nearly as entertaining if I read emails I sent to myself outloud, would it? This time around I talk about spacing out your fly rod purchases, finding an all-around wading boot, and climate change. Yes, one of those is quite different than the others. But hopefully my ramblings will be helpful in some way, shape, or form. And as always, thanks for your emails. Keep them coming: even if they aren't accusatory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I mean that in the absolutely most positive way possible. Heck, I had to dumb down my fly tying when I started (and restarted) so that I didn't get so frustrated that I threw my vice through the wall. So, apologies out of the way, what do I mean by dumbing down fly tying? Some of the biggest hurdles that beginning tyers experience have to do with the sheer diversity of skills and materials that some common patterns incorporate in a tiny hook shank. All I'm advocating is taking a few steps out. You might be okay with this stripped down approach, or you could very well build from that baseline to go on to the next level. Either way, you're going to be tying flies that catch fish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What better for a final podcast episode of the year than a curated retrospective on 2023? While I touch on other subject matter, this is what I get rolling with on this final episode of December. You might be surprised what the most shared episode of Casting Across happened to be. But you won't be shocked to find out which episode garnered the most ears. *cough* clickbait *cough* Also, I'm impressed with how many new listeners hopped on board this year. Moreover, I'm encouraged that so many found their way here via text. That means you're helping Casting Across grow. All that said: listen, thank you, and Happy New Year! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While this episode is being released in late December, it isn't a holiday episode by any means. However, I'm reviving something from a few years ago that was a part of the podcast around this time of year. The public domain is a treasure trove of fly fishing and fly fishing-adjacent content. And this particular story is really, really good. So sit back, grab an eggnog (or a lemonade if you're listening in July), and enjoy. Merry Christmas from Casting Across! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Watercraft and fly fishing go together. But which watercraft are best suited for the job? And, consequently, your hard-earned money? Today I dip my paddle into the wide, deep river of watercraft that one can employ in his pursuit of fish. There could be an entire podcast series on this topic, but hopefully this will serve as a sufficient introduction. Whether you're starting out or whether you have been fishing for years, this primer on a half dozen types of boats can help you think about how you can get to fish easier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Giving and getting gifts are both good. But in an arena like fly fishing, things usually need to be just so. This makes shopping for fly fishers hard at Christmases, birthdays, graduations, Father's days... year-round. But there are a few things that ought to be a hit for anyone, any time. And in today's podcast episode I share 10 gifts that will probably work for most fly fishers. Inevitably there will be something on this list that will make someone in your life happy. Or, perhaps this list will encourage you to drop few hints for the gift-giver in your life. Have other things that would suit this category? Let me know below. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are a lot of misconceptions about fly fishing out there. Some of them are repeated enough with such careless disregard for the truth that I'm comfortable in calling them lies. Today, I address three of them. Two have to do with technique and angling itself; one has broader social implications. Whether you're a new angler who is struggling against these things or a veteran who needs to think about combatting them, hopefully I frame the discussion in a way for you to navigate yourself and others towards the fly fishing truth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is Thanksgiving. And I am thankful. Today's episode is all about what I'm thankful for. It is about fly fishing. And it is personal. But as is the case with a lot of what I put out on Casting Across, I hope my personal musings about fly fishing will resonate with you. Whether they run parallel or perpendicular, I think there will definitely be some benefit as you listen and consider my ramblings. Happy Thanksgiving from Casting Across! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's on the end of your fly line? It isn't a fish. It is a leader. Which, as you may well have surmised, is essential for getting your fly to a fish. And getting your leader onto your fly line isn't necessarily a straightforward endeavor. Not all fly line/leader connections are created equally. Today I walk through four of them; three of which I recommend for one reason or another. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The weather outside is frightful. Or, at least it will be. And you're all ready to fish in it. Right? If you have the gumption and the warm socks, there is no reason why you can't fish in the coldest months out of the year. Today I tackle two big hurdles that people face when it comes to fly fishing in cold weather. I also give two techniques that ought to encourage you to get out and explore your local waters in a new way this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So I messed up. To my knowledge, I have never deleted an email from a reader or listener. But just today, right before recording, I did. So whoever you are, this week's podcast starts off with my heartfelt apology and an answer to your question. Along with that little bit of Q&A, I interact with two other bits of feedback that will be worth your while. Thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casting Across is not a "gear review site." But it does feature quite a few gear reviews. And, apparently you like them. My gear reviews receive thousands upon thousands of views every year. I usually keep those opinions confined to the specific articles, but because there are a lot of thoughts that surround the gear and how I've used it over the years I thought I'd mention them on the podcast. Today I'm talking about the top three gear reviews (by views) I have on Casting Across. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes it takes something jarring to get you to realize that you're not as safe as you thought. While fly fishing isn't a risky or dangerous activity, the fact of the matter is that it has elements of risk and danger. Why? It is outside, it is near the water, and you can't control everything all the time. Today I share a few sobering anecdotes, along with ways to stay safe on the water. You're never going to eliminate risk and danger. These are four things you need to know that will hopefully limit what could turn a good day into a tragic one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My introduction to fly fishing was on small, intimate rivers and streams. The first time I waded into a broad, sprawling trout river I was confident I wasn't going to catch a thing. But you know what? I did. And by employing a few simple techniques I landed more big river trout that day... and quite a few more in the decades since. Today's episode is a classic three-step how-to. I share three things that you can do to build confidence and get onto fish as you chase them in even the widest flows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Okay. Here's one that you can put in the debating fly fishing minutiae category. What situations should trigger jumping up two rod weights/line sizes? Today I talk through three circumstances that might push you to a heavier terminal rig. I give three common, real world examples. There are plenty of misconceptions that drive people to use gear that is too light. And while I love using lighter, more finesse equipment it should never be at the expense of decent casting and proper presentation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a certain picture most of us have in our minds when we think of fly fishing. Rolling hills, dense forests, and barren beaches are the kinds of scenery we seek out as we pursue fish. But have you ever tried to lure a brown trout out from under an overturned shopping cart to the sounds of a machine shop? Either because of adventure or proximity, you may very well want to pursue fly fishing in town. Big cities and small villages have water. And as long as the water is in good shape, there will probably be fish there. Today I give a brief overview of the how and why of fishing in and amongst the hustle and bustle. Hopefully you feel compelled to give it a shot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's your fly shop? There is a good chance that you have a local shop, considering that there are nearly 400 of them around the lower 48. A new and exciting part of Casting Across is the "Fly Shop Box" - an online directory of all the fly shops. In this episode I talk a little bit about why I decided to put this together, how you can use it, and how you can help keep it relevant. Give the podcast a listen, then hop online to check out if your favorite shop is there... or if there is a fly shop where you live or fish that you didn't know about! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recently I took my oldest son fishing on one of my favorite streams. It has taken me this long to take him, an accomplished angler for a pre-teen, because it is an incredibly small creek with remarkably spooky fish. But those fish happen to be native brook trout. I warned him of the challenges while singing the praises of what was in store. After a rough hour of fly fishing, we sat and talked. I shared four pieces of advice that were encouraging for him. In hindsight, they would be encouraging to anyone who is taking on the challenge of fishing a small creek with spooky fish. Check out what I had to say in this week's podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who is this guy you listen to every week? Valid question. In fact, I think that it is incredibly helpful to know at least a little something about the life, experiences, and worldview of the author you're reading. Or podcaster you're hearing. So this week, in incredibly short (and arbitrarily scheduled) fashion, I give you a little bit of an introduction to who I am. Perhaps it will give you some insight into Casting Across. Or you may potentially find some parallel aspects of our lives. Either way, thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every 10 episodes I read and respond to listener and reader feedback. This 25th edition of this facet of the Casting Across Fly Fishing Podcast includes the most diverse sources to date. Today I interact with a Facebook comment, a YouTube question, and a conversation at Dunkin' Donuts. Yes. A conversation at Dunkin' Donuts. I'm confident that something I cover in this week's podcast will be relevant to you and your angling. And as always, thanks for all your questions, comments, and accusations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

250 episodes. That is a quarter of the way to a really impressive benchmark. But let's not focus too much on the future. Today, I break my format rules and bring three guests into the studio. We talk travel, big bass, and fall dreams. There is also a very serious discussion regarding gummy bears. Thanks for listening; whether this be your first time with Casting Across or your 250th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We live in a day and age when we can use products off the shelf and they'll perform incredibly well. But if you spend any time on YouTube, you know that there is nothing that is off-limits when it comes to modifying everything from Nerf guns to leaf blower carburetors. Fly fishing gear is no different. While I don't advocate chopping up your rod or sewing something onto your waders, there are some simple things that you can do to improve the efficiency and effectiveness. Today I share four quick modifications that you can do with your gear to get a little more out of it on the water. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices