You don’t need to be a physics or geometry expert to be able to use a fly rod well. But there are a few ways that even the most rudimentary grasp of scientific or mathematic principles will help you on the water. For example: manipulations of your rod grip are telegraphed exponentially up to your …
Author: Matthew
Podcast Ep. 312: 5 Fly Fishing Changes of Mind
None of us should be so set in our ways that we’re unable to be pried out of the groove we’ve worn. In fly fishing, in particular, we should not be so entrenched in opinions that we’re dogmatic. It is good to have an opinion. But opinions can change. Today I share 5 opinions that …
The Mosts of Casting Across Fly Fishing
I write and I talk. That is what Casting Across is. I don’t dive into data, calculate SEO strategies, or find ways to push my content. I write. And I talk. Perhaps that is short-sighted and limits my exposure. Perhaps not. Either way, it is what it is. But once a year I do purposefully …
9 Thoughts for 9 Years
This week marks 9 years of Casting Across. Since October of 2015, three posts a week have been published on the people, places, and things that go into the pursuit of fish. First and foremost, Casting Across is a creative outlet for me. It has been a way for me to flex muscles in a …
Podcast Ep. 311: Voting Fly Fishing… & More
Did you know that is a presidential election year?!? Since I think the “rule” to avoid talking about money, religion, and politics is stupid, I talk about politics today on the podcast. But I think you’d agree that it is more philosophical than partisan. And it has to do with fly fishing. I promise. And …
A Different Kind of Fly Fishing Book
There is a very good chance that the first four or five fishing books you’ll name fall into one of the main literary sub-genres: memoirs, novels, techniques, or guides. And although there are enough quality entries in those categories to keep you going for quite a while, perhaps you’re looking to switch things up. How …
4 Ways to Think About Scouting
The afternoon started in abject failure. Trees blocked the river in both directions. We were covered in cobwebs, decaying bark, and more sweat than is befitting a mid-October day. There would be no ducks or trout in this spot. My oldest son and I were on a two-fold mission: locate a new waterfowl hole while …
Podcast Ep. 310: Fly Fishing Accusations, XXXI
I do miss things from time to time. And on this episode I come clean about missing two important things. You’ve probably survived, but I need to make it right. On another feedback-based episode, I answer questions about the following: Beginner vises Expensive sunglasses Why I don’t have more video content Check out those segments, …
The Phonaesthetic Fly
October Caddis. Say it with me. There is something about the syllabic rhythm; something in the way the vowels and consonants cycle about your mouth. It sounds perfect. It is a joy to say and a pleasure to hear. This two-word phrase may be in the running for fly fishing’s “cellar door.” Now, euphony won’t …
Back to Costa’s Grand Catalina (For the First Time)
Nostalgia and aesthetics aren’t the only reason you should buy fly fishing gear. But those two aspects do count for something. And in the history-rich, artistically inclined world of fly fishing nostalgia and aesthetics are often embraced willingly. Bamboo rods and waxed cotton packs are still made and used because they work. They are examples …