I’ve always used a monofilament leader… why should I change? That is a perfectly legitimate question. I feel qualified to say that, considering it was a question that I posed myself this past winter. For the first half dozen years of my fly fishing career, I used pack after pack of knotless tapered leaders. After …
There are pieces of fly fishing gear that I leave at home from time to time. They are important, but they aren’t invaluable. Engaging in this lifestyle for nearly two decades, I’ve amassed quite the collection of rods, reels, and miscellany. Many of the various bits of tackle are uniquely created for use in a …
If you haven’t ever been to the Fly Fishing Show in Somerset, you’re missing out. As the world’s largest fly fishing expo, there is so much to see, hear, and do. The sheer volume of tying materials, rods, and other outdoor miscellany can overwhelm the senses (and, if you’re not careful, the wallet). In Somerset, …
It could be said that I overthink road trips. I know what route I’ll be taking, what I’ll be wearing, where I’ll stop to eat, and what I plan on listening to while I drive. Call it crazy; it works for me. As I anticipate heading up to New Jersey for the Somerset Fly Fishing …
Starting in early January, fly fishers from across the country will venture out, drive for hours, and all while braving wintery weather. Contrary to their common preferences, they will seek out crowds and austere environs devoid of fish. Vests will be eschewed for wallets, and few will come with a fly rod. The Fly Fishing …
On the subject of reading, someone once penned the words, “I can go anywhere / Friends to know / And ways to grow.” For the fly fisher, that is most certainly the case. Whether it be a destination guidebook, an intimate novel, or a technical treatise, books can unlock all sorts of opportunities. Indeed, those …
If one’s digital footprint on Google is any indication of their contribution to their respective field, then I’m making an impact in the appreciation of fly fishing podcasts. I’ve given suggestions about what you should be listening to two times. I’ve also talked to some of the major figures in the genre and analysed why …
Fishing, particularly for the most avid members of the angling community, can feel somewhat insular most of the time. Blogs, expositions, stores, and even the sport itself occupy a relatively small corner of the “outdoors” niche. Consequently, when imagery and concepts from our world make it into the public eye, it can be surprising. Everything …
The statistics on how little our culture reads are discouraging. I’m not on a campaign to change the course of literary appreciation through the fly fishing community, but appreciating the sport naturally extends to what has been written. Three months ago I put together a list of four books on fly fishing that I recommend. …
“I can’t say that I know much about the whole man-jewelry market,” I said. Edgar Diaz laughed at my hesitance. “I get that a lot,” he said. “But some really manly men have picked up a cuff or two and wear it all the time.” And here I am, about a month later, wearing mine …
