What is reading water? At the most basic level, it is the process by which an angler determines where fish are most likely to be. By assessing a number of variables, it is possible to figure out which parts of a river have the highest percentage of holding fish. But what becomes an intuitive process …
Actually, it is one way to read water with four parts. But that is way too long for a podcast title. After sharing an anecdote about my failing to read water well, I go into my four-pronged approach to approaching rivers. While not remarkable or novel, I believe that this multi-tiered technique is a great …
It sounds like a dad joke; I know. But think about it. Fish are used to water. It is us that are the problem. That being said, there are absolutely some things to consider when fly fishing in the rain. Fish, what fish eat, and what fish swim in all change a little bit based …
After writing about my top 3 panfish flies earlier in the week (there is a link below), I got thinking about how I often fish them when I’m chasing the largest specimens in my local waters. As much as I like loud, fast, and active presentations, I have to say that subtle is usually the …
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 …
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 …
Every one of us has our favorite kind of spot to fish. Riffles, runs, pools; banks, boulders, ledges. There is a reason why you’ll gravitate to such spots regardless of which river you’re on. One of my favorites is creek mouths; where smaller rivers run into larger rivers. These are intersections for fish and bodies …
When it comes to learning fly fishing, there is nothing like in-person, on the water instruction. But if you are unable to find an opportunity to schedule coaching, or if you want something to refresh or reiterate what you’ve already learned, online resources can be invaluable. It is even better when online resources are high …
* Disclaimer: This article may offend the sensibilities of anyone who could pass for the caricature of a fly fishing purist. * In a day and age when more musky-sized, triple-articulated, over-dressed streamers are tied on than blue winged olives, it is often overlooked that there are more subtle approaches to take with a baitfish …
Dry fly season is right around the corner. You probably have all you need to take advantage of this magical time of the angling year. But a $5 purchase could really help your cast and presentation. What might that be? Well, in this episode I walk through a few pieces of gear and techniques that …
