A fly fishing debate as old as the rivers themselves: Which weight should you fish if you want the quintessential trout fly rod? First of all, there is no right answer. That doesn’t stop me from trying to answer, though. I go through a handful of categories and considerations that lead me to answer this …
Forceps or pliers should be found on every angler on the water. They cut line, crimp barbs, adjust split shot, untangle knots, tighten knots… and release fish. It is a plus that you can get functional forceps for under $5. I’ve owned plenty of $5 forceps over the years, and many of them have served …
The Lid Rig is a stainless steel nipper that uses magnets to attach to any appropriate surface. Opposing magnets also pop the jaws open, eliminating the need for a spring. The sharp, precision aligned jaws will cut through monofilament, fluorocarbon, and even braided backing. The Lid Rig retails for $74.95. Understandably, that last bit of …
I know. You like your flies. Dozens of patterns; hundreds of individual fish catching pieces of potential. But really, how many do you actually use? While it isn’t for every angler (or every situation), cutting down the flies you carry on the water can actually streamline your fishing. It will certainly make packing and organization …
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 …
Is something missing from your fly fishing this winter? You’re still fishing. You’re still tying up a lot of flies. You’re keeping your nose in a book or glued to YouTube. So what is missing? Fly fishing shows and outdoor expos. Large gatherings aren’t in these days. And if fly fishing events are anything, they’re …
You care about your flies. More than that, you care about the organization of your flies. You spend time, energy, and effort to tie or buy your flies, so it only stands to reason that you should be concerned about where they go. Of course, you can put flies in anything. An old Altoid tin …
The vast majority of the time, the bulk of your flies will be in a fly box. Fly boxes not only allow you to carry hundreds of patterns with you as you fish, they keep your flies organized and dry. But we all need some place to quickly stash and access a fly or six. …
Happy (early) New Year from Casting Across! First of all: Thank you for reading, listening, and being a part of Casting Across. With everything that 2020 brought, this website, podcast, and community has been a positive constant. Hopefully something I wrote or said helped you get on the water and get through the difficulty of …
Gift-giving season is upon us. When done right, it is a very special opportunity. Strip away the stress and the commercialism and the price tags. What are you left with? A chance to find something that will make somebody smile. If that person is a fly fisher, flies may very well do the trick. Flies …
