Fly fishing gear is a big part of Casting Across. I’ve always enjoyed the aesthetics, the marketing, and, most importantly, the function of fly fishing gear. Consequently, I’ll review new products on the site from time to time. But appreciating fly fishing gear shouldn’t only be about the latest model or newest technology. The things …
We’ve all had this experience: You’re fishing in a stream that is loaded with trout. You’ve caught fish there. Others are catching fish there. But today, you’re not getting any action. There are some very specific reasons why this might be the case. I’ve found that the issues aren’t so much about my casting, my …
A few articles in Casting Across history have drawn ire from the fly fishing internet. There was the series of posts that calculated the “best rated” fly shop in each state. There have been reviews of products from companies that people don’t like. There are opinions, recommendations, and personal convictions that readers don’t agree with. …
Why would I read it if… I could watch the movie? The information is 20 years old? I could get the same information from YouTube? There are dozens, if not hundreds, of other books like it? These questions are legitimate. But if you’ve ever read a good book, you know how the written word has …
Anyone can catch a bluegill. But catching big, dinner plate-sized, rod bending bluegill? That takes a lot of luck, or better yet, a good amount of skill. On today’s episode I walk through three things that will help you find, hook, and catch the biggest sunfish, pumpkinseed, and warmouth in the pond. There are some …
The year was 2000. I stood in the bright sterility of the over-irradiated mall sunglass store, trying on pair after pair of shades. I had just seen Mission Impossible 2. Growing out my hair like Tom Cruise would take time. But purchasing some sleek, streamlined sunglasses like he wore in the action flick was something …
I wasn’t looking to read a book. My goal was to use books to gather information. But despite my best efforts I was turning page after page, laughing, and getting a lot more than fishing tips. All thanks to John Gierach. As a child I was a vociferous reader. Books assigned in school were merely …
We’ve got four topics to cover this time on the audience Q&A podcast. And the Qs are good! Hopefully the As are as well. This week I’m talking about the hook barb debate, fly suggestions, John Gierach, and what to do with the silica packets that you get with a new pair of shoes. I’m …
“What is the little white stuff on it’s back?” “It is supposed to imitate a wing case or something.” “It looks like it has a starched collar. Are the fish going to go for that?” The fly shop owner peered over his newspaper at the two young men picking through the fly bins. The less-than-entomological …
Every week I get some interesting emails because of Casting Across. Most of the time, they’re quick observations or pertinent questions from website readers and podcast listeners. I think it is great. And I do my best to respond quickly and thoughtfully. In fact, I actively encourage feedback. Leading up to podcasts episodes that end …
