There is an interesting dichotomy among many fly fishers. When it comes to equipment like fly rods there is an inordinate amount of attention given to having the precise piece of gear required for a particular application. That approach often entails acquiring a few pieces of gear required for a handful of particular situations. At …
This year, a reel that received a lot of attention upon release was the Redington Ace. Online and walk-in fly shops had a hard time supplying anglers with the 5/6 model. What made this reel so hot? And how has it held up six months into actual fishing? The short of it is that Redington …
I enjoy putting together gear reviews. Not only is it interesting for me to think about how a particular piece of equipment works, but my perspective might help someone make a purchase that benefits their time outdoors. And in my humble opinion, there is no item more fun to review than fly rods. Today I …
Each winter, over the course of a few fly fishing expos I endeavor to cast many of the season’s new fly rods. Often times this exercise is about getting an idea of what is new and noteworthy. It is more about research than shopping. However, in the early months of 2025 two rods impressed me …
Today I want to discuss one of the most important pieces of gear out there in fly fishing today. In my humble opinion, it hasn’t received appropriate treatment; certainly not the fanfare it deserves. That said, I want to sing its praises in a way that makes you take notice. It is a fly rod. …
Regardless of budget, most fly fishers do their due diligence when shopping for waders. After all, no one wants to be wet. The right pair of waders at the right price will give you peace of mind as you spend seasons on the water. For some that price reaches well over $500. However, there is …
A good fly tying demonstration doesn’t just give you the how. It also throws the what and why in to really help you understand what you’re doing. The best ones? They add high-quality photographs, throw in some anecdotes, and reference the top voices in fishing today. Sound like a high standard? Well, Tim Cammisa of …
Virtually all fly fishing situations can be approached with basic gear. A medium fast, 8’6″, 5-weight loaded with weight forward line will give you what you need to catch trout. But modifying one of those components to better match your skill or your circumstances can make a real difference. For example, a higher quality line …
My four boys love the outdoors. My four boys also love reading. Needless to say, there was a lot of interest when I opened up All Fish Are Awesome earlier this week. Noel Vick’s book follows the simple formula that makes children’s books readable and re-readable (and if your child chooses, the latter can be …
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 …
