I only lived in Pennsylvania for seven years. But the quantity and quality of the angling I squeezed in during grad school and my first career was remarkable. Primarily focusing on spring creeks, with the overwhelming majority of the time on three in particular, I can’t fathom how many days of my life were spent …
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 …
There are certain tools that are indispensable in fly fishing. A rod and line are obviously important. You need flies, too. Tangible on-stream items begin to add up quickly. Often overlooked, but no less significant, are all the resources needed to be successful on the water. Casting instruction and reading the water aren’t automatically imparted …
We’ve all seen that guy: he’s got the entire Orvis catalog hanging from his vest. …okay, I’ve been that guy. Maybe you have too. In a lot of ways, fly fishing and other outdoor pursuits have shifted away from carrying more to taking a minimalist approach. It is a great thing. You can move lighter …
The Potomac is a big river. Flowing from the steep hollows of western Maryland and West Virginia down into the tidal portions of Washington, DC, it is big. There are diverse sections of river, each with it’s own composition and angling opportunities. Downstream of historic Harpers Ferry, there are bass and musky hiding in waving …
It is a lot of fun to pull up to the river, hop out of your car, and just get to fishing. On the other hand, if you can do that in a particular spot it means that countless others can do the same as well. A little initiative and, if you’re able, a little …
Moving towards the water is always a mystery. Remember that fish live where they’re not supposed to live. The last place you’d expect might be suitable for a small population of something. That could mean a few fish to hand. It also might mean access to and knowledge of your own spot. Someplace you found. …
This month on Trout & Feather, I’ve contributed an article titled Learn from Your Ancient Angling Ancestors. It focuses on one of the most valuable tips I can give new and experienced fly fishers. It has to do with how you approach the river… before you even approach the river. A thousand years ago, without …
Fly fishing is ninety percent mental, the other half is physical… or something like that. Truly, having the right mindset when approaching the stream and presenting your fly matters. You have got to be reasonable in what you’re doing and how you’re doing it, but having confidence counts for a whole lot. I quickly cover …
There are no brown trout here. Fish aren’t going to rise unless bugs are hatching. Nothing in this pond is over a few pounds. You can’t use flies – they’ll only take bait. Oh yeah? For an unpredictable pursuit like fly fishing, those statements sound awfully concrete. Add in a little bit of competitiveness and …
