The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast

This episode was originally published on October 15th, 2023. Hal Herring [50:31] has been reporting on conservation issues in the American West for over 30 years for Field & Stream magazine as well as other publications. In this week's podcast, he explores the many complexities of trying to keep enough water in our rivers for both agriculture and trout populations, which has become an increasingly difficult juggling act. Hal also gently berates today's hunters and anglers about educating themselves on the science and the politics behind these issues. It's not enough to just complain about the lack of water—it's important to understand the issue before you can have a credible opinion. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great tips and questions, including: Do bamboo and fiberglass rods load differently than graphite rods? When you have a very limited time on a river, do you have a fishing method that gives you the most bang for your buck? Is there an alternative to the "chuck and duck" method for fishing…

Chris Burkard [32:00], renowned action photographer, joins us to share his journey and insights into the world of fly fishing and extreme sports. His unique perspective on connecting with nature through photography and fishing offers a refreshing take on outdoor adventure. And along the way he offers some great tips on bikepacking with a fly rod. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: I keep spooking the bigger trout in a small southern brook trout stream. What can I do to avoid spooking them? Is an 8-weight Encounter rod enough to handle Pacific salmon in Michigan? And how heavy a tippet should I use? I lost my biggest trout the other day after a long battle. What advice do you have for landing bigger fish? How can I get the eyes on my big predator flies from coming off after a few casts? What do you carry in your "eventuality kit" when taking trips? I saw sea trout jumping outside my office in Stockholm, but I couldn't catch them. What do you think they were doing? My buddies and I…

In this episode, fisheries biologist Shawn Good [24:00] shares insights into the diverse and rewarding world of fish biology, including how fish populations are sampled, the impact of environmental factors, and the importance of habitat conservation. In this episode, Shawn discusses stream habitat connectivity, culvert design, fish migration, and the success of Lake Champlain's lake trout restoration program. He emphasizes the importance of habitat management and collaboration among agencies to protect aquatic ecosystems. In the Fly Box this week, we have some interesting questions, tips, and suggestions, including: Why you should always stop into local fly shops when traveling Can I overline my rod by more than two line sizes? A tip from a listener on how to get custom colors on tying materials My fly rod section twists out of alignment constantly. How do I fix this? I have been catching shiners on my fly rod, but what flies should I use for catching some medium-sized bass? How do you know when to tie on a…

Roadless Areas are some of the most important coldwater refuges for trout and salmon, and also prime spawning areas. Yet they are under threat because the Forst Service has proposed to eliminate them. Learn how you can quickly and easily voice your opinion and it WILL matter. And you need to do it in the next couple weeks. Chris Wood [43:52] is always a great guest and you'll learn more than just about this issue. For instance, you'll learn the difference between a Roadless Area and Wilderness Area and what you can and can't do on each type of public land. In the Fly Box this week, we have some questions and controversies, including: Why do I get knots along my whole leader and how can I eliminate them? I found a bunch of big brook trout at the mouth of a cold tributary and caught one of them. Was this ethical? I want to restrict myself to Adams, Pheasant Tails, and Woolly Buggers for a season. What do you think of this idea? A listener actually enjoys foul-hooking trout because they fight better. He thinks…

Many flies cross boundaries and you shouldn't hesitate to experiment with flies designed for other species. Tarpon flies will catch striped bass, smallmouths, and trout. Squirmy Worms and Mop flies work for bass, carp, and even bonefish. Steelhead, shad, and carp take bonefish flies. The list goes on, and Tim [35:08] and Tom relate stories where the "wrong" fly has often saved the day. It's a fun discussion. In the Fly Box, my plea for phone calls has produced some great ones as well as the usual e-mails. Some of the questions and tips include: Is there any reason I can't cut the hook off a jig head and use that for drop shotting? A tip from a listener on a way to make guides in foreign countries very happy. Any pros or cons to fly lines made from PVC as opposed to other materials? Will a 5-weight rod work for light saltwater fishing? How do you fish for carp in a lake with no visibility? A comment on fishing etiquette. Why do the catfish in my river jump clear of the water? Which hook should I cut off my…

My guest this week is Orvis ambassador George Daniel [31:48], who is also a guide, an author, and teaches the Fly Fishing class at Penn State. George is always questioning fly-fishing tactics, and he has some new ideas that surprisingly contradict what he has written in the past. You'll learn about his new leader design, why he typically fishes only a single nymph, why he doesn't use tippet rings any more, and why he uses a loop knot for large dry flies. And much more, including some interesting new fly patterns. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and tips: With the increase in tungsten prices, will sinking lines be more expensive in the future? What do I need for a basic setup to begin steelhead fishing? A tip from a listener on a killer fly for catching bullhead A warning from a listener on his experience with flesh eating bacteria that he encountered on a fishing trip. A tip from a listener on using a bass bug taper for fishing large dry flies in the wind. In a tailwater that fluctuates…

What is the trout fishing like in Patagonia? Is it worth the time and expense? Is it truly the trip of a lifetime? And what should you expect on a trip to this magical place? Will you catch the biggest trout of your life? Is it really uncrowded? My guest this week is long-time lodge owner and guide Eduardo Barrueto [42:05] of Magic Waters in Chile, and he gives a great overview of what to expect on your first trout-fishing trip to Patagonia. In the Fly Box this week, we have some particularly interesting questions that I think will be of interest to many of you, including: How can I read the water, and what is the best depth for finding trout in a river? Should I use tippet rings for bonefish? I have trouble with my knots when making fluorocarbon leaders for bass. What do you suggest? Should I be setting the hook more often when indicator nymphing? Is it true that New England fly fishers work a stream more rapidly? How long should I stay in one spot? How do I keep my foam bodies on dry flies from wrapping…

This episode was originally published on August 6th, 2021. This week my guest is Colby Trow [38:08] of Mossy Creek Fly Fishing, one of the best smallmouth bass anglers I know. Colby talks about successful techniques in catching these critters in late summer, when they can be harder to catch than earlier in the season. The good news is that it's one of the best times to catch them on a surface fly like a popper or hair bug, which is always the most fun. In the Fly Box this week, we have the following questions and tips from listeners: A listener who makes the point that it's quicker to land trout on light tippets with a Euro rod. Can I fish carp flies with an indicator? Are treble hooks more harmful than single point barbless hooks? What do I do when trout take my hopper patterns deep? Should I leave the fly in them? I have trouble catching smallmouths in clear water. Any suggestions? Where do you store your leader between fishing trips? A tip from Sam, fishing manager at Orvis Houston, on catching redfish in…

My guest this week is Peter Jenkins [28:08], owner of the Saltwater Edge in Rhode Island and chairman of the American Saltwater Guides Association. Peter is a lifelong striper addict and has also followed the plight of the striped bass and the many management plans that try to preserve this valuable resource. He talks about the history of striped bass populations, why they are in decline right now, and what can be done to get back to the "glory days" of the late 1990s. In the Fly Box this week, I try to answer the following questions: What are tipping guidelines for a fishing guide in Italy? Are big articulated streamers mostly for targeting trophy fish? I had three fish completely swallow my dry fly. Do you have any insights on why they do that sometimes? Is it wise to sometimes start with a small fly rather than a large one? If I only have a leader and tippet on the water, should I still mend? Is it OK to have drag if only the leader and tippet are on the water? I am going to Patagonia this year. Should I…

My guest this week is Orvis casting guru and fishing buddy Pete Kutzer [39:31], who makes a case for using trout Spey techniques not just for spring and fall streamer fishing but all summer long, swinging wet flies and soft hackles. Pete gets into exactly the right rod, line, leader, and tippet he uses, the fly patterns he prefers, and the techniques he uses for presenting the flies. He also gives us some great tips for two-handed casting in general—tough to do on a podcast, but they are helpful nonetheless. In the Fly Box this week we have some great questions and tips from listeners, including: When fishing foam dry flies on a dry dropper rig, my leader keeps twisting. How can I prevent this? What essential gear should I take when fishing from my raft? I keep spooking carp with my heavily weighted flies but I need them to get down. How can I fix this? A listener tells us about a very clever method he uses for drop-shotting with nymphs that allows him to change weights easily. I saw dozens of trout stacked…

With warm and lower water levels in many western rivers, there's no need to sit out those hoot owl regulations. Some of the reservoirs in the Rocky Mountains offer the same spectacular scenery as trout rivers, fewer people, and challenging fish that might get you into your backing. Orvis-Endorsed Guide of the Year Dustin White [36:42] shares his passion for carp fishing in Montana and gives us some solid tips for finding and catching them. In the Fly Box this week we have the following interesting questions and more: My cast keeps wrapping around my rod when doing the double haul. How can I fix this? What is the best way to approach a fly-fishing "personality" on the water? What should I do if I see someone violating fishing regulations? Is it ever appropriate to clear brush on a path to the river? What is the best way to evaluate a fly-fishing guide? Suggestions on a rod for fishing for sea bass. How should I approach a large pool with numerous fish rising. Should I work my way upstream or go to the biggest…

This episode was originally published on March 3rd, 2025. Crayfish are prey that most gamefish can't resist. They're high in calories, abundant, and relatively easy for bass, trout, and many other gamefish to capture. Yet most of us don't know much about their life cycle and behavior (myself included). Guide Jake Villwock [47:02] has spent his life studying these critters, which gives him important insight on the right fly patterns, but even more important how and when to fish them. You'll learn a lot on this podcast. In the Fly Box this week, there are lots of good questions and I hope my answers will help you in your fly-fishing journey. They include: I can't seem to get my fly deep enough in bass lakes with my floating line. Should I get a sinking line for my 8-weight and fish surface flies with my 5-weight? A listener asks for help from listeners in ways to lessen the pain of losing his beloved fishing dog I fished a river that has always been full of trout and didn't see a thing. What happened to the…

I don't like to use the word etiquette as that implies rules and we should be able to fish however we want as long as it's legal. But there are traditions and guidelines for conduct on trout rivers that ensures that everyone has a good day on the water without infringing on the rights of others. And they do sometimes differ depending on whether you are floating or wading, and even form one river to the next depending on how crowded they are. Todd Tanner [34:22] offers a very thoughtful and interesting approach to this subject with lots of anecdotes on what he has seen on the many trout rivers he's fished in his lifetime. Do boomboxes and dogs belong on trout rivers? Listen to what Todd has to say on those topics. In the Fly Box this week we have these questions and more: What do you think about the AI in relation to fly fishing? Does the Orvis Wading Staff really self deploy? How do I fish high, clear water? What do the trout do under this condition? How do I know when I am fishing deep enough for salmon and…

The Northeast has some of the finest small-stream brook trout fishing in the world. A hike in the Green Mountains of Vermont, White Mountains of New Hampshire, Adirondack Mountains in New York, or the mountains of western Maine can get you to unspoiled brook trout waters with minimal to no fishing pressure. And these are wild, native fish and one of the most colorful fish in freshwater. Nick Yardley [35:18] is an experienced hiker and climber, and loves brook trout fishing as much as he loves Atlantic salmon and steelhead. He's got some great tips on getting there and what tackle and flies to use. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: Tips on why the Orvis landing net is so great. Will we be seeing stainless steel beads to replace the expensive tungsten ones? Or is this fake news? Controversy: A listener suggests that if we don't have more "Fly Fishing Only" trout streams, the future of fly fishing is at stake (and Tom disagrees). Bass follow my fly but don't commit. What should I do? A…

This episode was originally published on July 22nd, 2024. A couple months ago I did a podcast with Jason Randall [36:39] on trout vision, and it was so popular that I asked him to come back on the podcast to do one on a trout's sense of smell and hearing. Can trout hear your metal studs on the bottom when you wade, or the tip of your wading staff? Can they hear you talking? Can they smell your flies, and does it make sense to add scents to your fly? Can they smell hatches coming? I explore these and other topics with one of our foremost experts on what trout perceive in their environment. In the Fly Box this week, we have a great assortment of questions and tips from listeners, including: What could I tie with size 16 and 18 Keel Hooks? When working the same pool, should the nymph or streamer angler cover the pool first? Where should you park when you see a stretch of unposted land? A listener relates a fun story of his first carp on the fly What would make me choose the more expensive textured Pro fly line…

This episode was originally published on June 23rd, 2025. In the Fly Box this week, we have some interesting requests, including many questions about leaders and tippet. What fly line should I use on my Helios 2 rod for dry-fly fishing? What can I do to prevent my tippet from kinking? What can you do when small stream trout refuse your fly? I have been using heavier tippet and seem to be doing just as well as with lighter tippet. What is your take on this? Is there a big difference between various brands of tippet material? Can I just add a tippet ring to my 9-foot 4X leader to make a nymph leader? Should the butt section of my nymph leader be made from fluorocarbon? What should I take on a multi-day fishing trip that I would not normally think of? Why am I foul-hooking so many trout and whitefish this year? What do you think of furled leaders? What rod should I get for my 8-year-old daughter? What rig should I start her out with? What do you think of Crocs as inexpensive wading shoes? What can you tell me…

This episode was originally published on May 19th, 2025. Every week I get some iteration of this question: "I hooked three fish and lost all of them before I could get them to the net. What am I doing wrong?" Well, often you did nothing wrong and it was just bad luck. But there are steps you can take to make sure you land the fish you've hooked and Josh Nugent [36:46], a regular on my podcast and one of the most thoughtful anglers I know, presents us with his Seven Deadly Sins. There are lots of helpful nuggets in this one. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and tips: You say I can fish small streamers on my 5-weight rod. What do you mean by "small'? I am using the Albright knot for larger sections of my leader. What do you think? A tip from a listener on how not to launch small brookies into the bushes when you hook them. Why am I losing half of my fish when using barbless hooks? Is there any situation where you would use an Improved Clinch Knot as opposed to the regular Clinch Knot? A tip…

Want to spend less time untangling knots and more time with your flies in the water? Do you want to connect on more of the strikes you get to your nymphs? Want to know the best way to cast indicator rigs? Orvis-endorsed guide Matt Squillante [28:56] shares his tips from years of teaching fly fishers how to fish indicator rigs, and he shares some solid advice on this method. In the Fly Box this week, we have the questions and tips: I was fishing for panfish and had a big fish make a huge run but I lost it. Any guess as to what kind of fish it was? I really enjoyed using the poly leaders Orvis used to sell. Any suggestions for a substitute? I am having problems casting my new Superfine rod after using a Helios D. Any suggestions on improving my casting with it? A tip on using a waterproof marker to color your thread if it's not the right color for the head of your fly. How can I fish my nymphs in pools that are 6-to 8-feet deep? What is the correct terminology when describing the size of a piece of moving…

My guest this week, Chris Steinbeck [25:15] of the Blue Quill Angler in Colorado, shares his strategies for dealing with what we expect will be low water and possibly water that is too warm for ethical trout fishing. This doesn't mean you have to forgo fly fishing! There are many options for continuing your trout fishing through the summer, plus loads of alternatives to trout that are amazing fun on the fly rod. Chris has some solid tips for enjoying the summer with your rod, and for treating the fish properly in low water. Although Chris concentrates on Colorado fisheries, his advice is solid for any part of the Rocky Mountains. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: If I briefly hook a brown trout, do you think it's still worth trying for that fish? I have an old Orvis Bamboo rod left to me by my grandfather. Should I fish it, and if so how should I care for it? Is there a material you could wrap around a dry fly to make it float better? Which types of dubbing are best for dry flies?…

My guests this week are Kirk Deeter and Matt Supinski [27:19], authors of the amazing new book A Fishable Feast. They talk about great meals they've experienced in lodges around the world, but also about what they actually pack for the day when they are fishing on their own. And then what to enjoy after a day of fishing—what to drink, what meals to prepare to celebrate a great day or console yourself after a lousy day. And they even wax poetic (at least Matt does) about what a day on the water really means. It's a fun discussion and I hope you enjoy it. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: Should I put floatant on my CDC flies or should they ride below the surface? How will I get my flies deep enough now that tungsten beads are getting scarce and expensive? Should I get a moderate or fast-action rod for all-around fishing in Colorado? Can I use a surgeon's knot to connect nylon to fluorocarbon? I have been using tippet rings. How short can my shock tippet get before I need to replace…

Before you rule out this podcast because you don't live in southern California, you may want to listen to my interview with master saltwater fly fisher Al Quattrocchi [24:46] because he gives lots of great advice on fishing in the surf in general. You'll get tips on lines, leaders, approach, and how to find fish in the surf. So, whether you chase striped bass or redfish in the surf, I think you'll get some great tips here. In the fly box this week, we have some great tips as well as interesting questions, including: How can I keep my dropper tag from tangling around the standing part of the tippet? How can I find out about etiquette on local rivers? A tip from a listener on fishing streamers with a Euro rig in low, clear water I am confused by fly casting instructions. Lefty Kreh recommended that we pretend our arm is on a shelf and then flick the wrist. Should I try casting this way? My local river is high but there are some ephemeral side channels. Do you think these are worth fishing? Is it true that…

Orvis-endorsed guide Alberto Rey [33:22] just completed a trip around the world, fishing and exploring on six continents—and he did it all with only two 6-piece Clearwater Rods and two reels and a handful of flies. He has some great stories and great tips for travelers from his experience and shares them with us. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and tips: Should I be adding 4 feet of tippet to my 7 ½ foot leader for a dry dropper rig? A tip from a listener about using pieces of pool noodle to store pre-make fly rigs I saw a video where a guy fished four flies at once on droppers. How do you avoid tangles with this many flies on the leader? If the new Recons are 20% stronger, if I want to get a 6-weight rod should I order a 5-weight? A tip from a listener (with a caution from Tom) about using micro spikes for wading How can I easily get the hook out of trout and still keep them in the water when they struggle? I saw an otter on the river and got skunked. Do the fish vacate an area when an…

My guest this week is guide and fly shop owner Taylor Edrington [34:16] of Royal Gorge Anglers in Colorado. His home river, the Arkansas, has an amazing hatch of these bugs, but they also hatch on trout streams throughout the country some time between Tax Day and Mother's Day (and often beyond). It's a great hatch but often tricky as trout will many times key on the emerging pupa and not the adult. But Taylor has some tricks to help us solve the puzzle. In the Fly Box this week, we have some questions that I think will be helpful to many people, such as: Can I fish streamers on bright days in a river without much insect life? Can I use a reel meant for a 7- to 9-weight rod on my 6-weight rod? When you are fishing with other people on mountain creeks, do you ever use two-way radios? I have trouble fishing really large rivers. What should I look for in giant rivers? Will carp in a trout stream harm the trout population? Can I use a Perfection Loop in my backing to attach a fly line? Why aren't there different…

My guest this week is Simon Perkins [1:11], president of The Orvis Company and a third-generation family member to run the company. You may have heard about some major changes in Orvis' business over the past couple years, and Simon relates both his emotional struggle with restructuring the company and also his optimism about a laser focus on Orvis' core values: Fly fishing, upland hunting, and protection of our natural resources. Why there will be a greater emphasis on independent fly shops. And also the greatly streamlined Orvis apparel offering and how that affected which Orvis retail stores remained open.

Many of our favorite places to fish for wild trout are located on Forest Service lands. My guest this week is Paul Hendricks [29:45], executive director of The Conservation Alliance, which is an outdoor industry organization dedicated to maintaining the health of our public lands. Some recent developments threaten the continuing operation of the US Forest Service, and Paul tells us what these proposed changes are--what we can do to help mitigate some drastic changes, and ensure that the dedicated people who help maintain many of the places we love to fish have the resources they need. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: How can I make a 6-foot leader for fishing for trout in small creeks? I always get tangled when fishing with multiple flies but not with a single dry fly. What am I doing wrong? Why do brook trout in the Shenandoah area appear to grow bigger than they do in most northeastern streams? How can I fish subsurface flies for panfish in very weedy waters? A listener relates…

Permit on a floating fly? Don't you need to fish heavy flies that get right to the bottom, where permit feed? Sometimes, but over the past decade permit anglers have discovered that permit eat crabs on the surface, and if you've spent enough time on salt water you will see crabs swimming along the surface. Fishing floating crabs make a lot of sense as you'll learn when you listen to this podcast with film maker and permit angler RA Beattie [27:05]. In the Fly Box this week, we have some questions that might solve problems you have had, including: I have trouble with my fly wallet, either losing flies or tearing out the fleece. Is this a matter of user error? Should I apply flotant to foam flies and flies with deer and elk hair, or will they float by themselves? Do jig nymphs harm smaller trout? If I use large beads on my nymphs, will they inhibit hooking qualities? I have trouble with my line tangling when striper fishing. Do you have any tips? Do featherwing streamers offer any advantages? Why do people…

Urban fly fishing is fun and presents some challenges—like bystanders getting in the way of back casts and sometimes fishing from a location high above the water. And it's essential to know how to fish around bridges as these are sometimes the best habitat for urban fish. Marc Fryt [38:33], whose new book The Guide to Urban Fly Fishing is a treasure trove of tips for exploring this exciting world. In the Fly Box this week we have some interesting questions and tips, including: Is there a place I can explore saltwater fly fishing on foot without a guide? I can't afford one right now. When storing fly tying materials, what should I do to prevent damage? Will excessive heat or cold in a garage or attic affect them? Do you have any tips for catching my first grayling in a lake? How should I set the drag on my reel? Are Orvis' mid-priced rods like the new Recons just blanks from older versions of premium rods or are they completely new designs? A listener reports that he uses a light for trout fishing at night…

I have been meaning to get Charlie Craven [37:41] of Charlie's Fly Box in Denver on the podcast for quite some time and we finally connected. Charlie talks about what new materials and tools excite him and also how to approach the topic of assembling essential materials for the beginning fly tier. We also explore some other topics as only a couple of geeky fly tiers can when given the chance. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions and tips from listeners, including: I have been using a clear floating line for sight fishing for striped bass but noticed the fish sometimes shy away from the fly. Do you think this is because the clear line reflects too much sunlight? A tip from a listener on another way of taking fishing photos without risking losing your valuable smartphone in the water. My leader lands in a pile when I am casting. But you say that sometimes you want your leader to land in loose coils. Is it too much to expect my leader to fully straighten? Advice from bamboo rod guru Shawn…

Join me as we explore the fascinating world of early season olive hatches with expert fly fisherman Blake Katchur [35:42] of Anglers All in Denver. No matter where you fish, you'll find this hatch any time from early March to early June. Discover effective tactics, fly patterns, and timing tips to enhance your fishing success during this prolific hatch. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: Can I use my 7-weight fiberglass rod for bonefish in Belize? Why can I catch brook trout in smaller streams during the winter but not in a bigger river? If I leave off the trailing hook in articulated flies, how do I compensate for the lack of weight? Will it affect the swimming action of my flies? For Alaska silver salmon and big rainbows, should I get a 9-foot or 10-foot 8-weight Helios rod? And should I pick Helios D or F? Do the scents from resins and glues put off the fish? Is there anything that can cover up these scents? Are wings on dry flies absolutely necessary? Where did we get the "X"…

Recently, Tom took time to chat with Reid on the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast about his 50 years at Orvis. If you're interested in hunting, shooting, or the great outdoors in general, consider subscribing to Reid's show, too! (Crosspost from the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast) "Tom Rosenbauer, longtime Orvis employee, writer, and host of the Orvis Fly Fishing Podcast, joins Reid for a wide-ranging conversation about his nearly 50 years with the company. They talk about the early days at Orvis, the great outdoor writers who shaped the culture around Manchester, Vermont, and how a lifelong fly fisherman found his way, occasionally, behind a shotgun. Along the way Tom shares stories, history, and a perspective on the outdoors that few people still carry."

This episode was originally published on August 19th, 2021. This week's podcast guest is especially exciting to me as he is one of my literary heroes. John McPhee [24:10] is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author (Annals of the Former World), and in his numerous other books he has written about such diverse topics as nuclear energy, the merchant marine, basketball, Alaska, bark canoes, oranges, continental drift, flood control, tennis, farmer's markets, and many other eclectic topics. Whether or not you are interested in a subject, you can be sure you will be when you finish reading one of his books you will be fascinated. John has also been a staff writer for The New Yorker since the 1960s. In our interview, he talks about his two favorite fish to catch on the fly rod--the American shad (which he wrote an entire book about, The Founding Fish), and the chain pickerel, which he did not write a book about but did pen a short essay on in his collection of stories The Patch. (I doubt is anyone in the world who would…

This episode was originally published on February 17th, 2023. This week is my guest Seth Berger [1:00:18], Fly Fishing Travel Specialist with Orvis Adventures. In his job, Seth visits Orvis-endorsed operations around the world and always packs his fishing gear, so he's a great resource for advising us how to travel with rods, waders, and flies—how to pack them, what to carry on, and pitfalls you should avoid. Seth also talks about what to pack, and items that are often forgotten or ignored by traveling anglers. Anyone who gets on a plane, whether it's a short hop or an international flight, will benefit from his knowledge. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions and comment that run the gamut of the fly-fishing experience, including: A listener who recommends the mono rig method, which is different from the standard Euro nymphing setup. And tries to tell me 20lb. mono casts just as easily as fly line (I'm not buying it) Why not put a tippet ring on the end of a poly leader? I've used straight…

This week I interview Quint Rogers [31:43], a fly fishing guide specializing in shoal bass fishing in Georgia. We discuss the unique characteristics of shoal bass, their habitat, life cycle, and the best fishing techniques to catch this rare freshwater bass, perfectly suited to the fly rod. Quint shares insights on seasonal patterns, fishing gear, and the river environments where shoal bass thrive. In the Fly Box this week we have these questions from listeners: How can I figure out which way to orient slotted beads on nymphs? Are six-piece travel rods any good? For small stream fishing, does it matter if I use a double taper or weight forward line? Is there any evidence to suggest which is the best way to attach droppers? Why does my leader always break at the tippet ring? Are there any alternatives to stripping baskets for beach fishing? How do you know when to replace a floating line? Can you do a podcast on how to train a dog to be a fishing companion? Why don't more saltwater guides use nets? What kind…

If you think mending is just lifting your rod and flipping it upstream—well sometimes it is—but there is so much more you can do with line mends to add slack in just the right places, and to deal with tricky currents. Mike Pease [30:41], Orvis-endorsed guide and great storyteller, gives us 10 tips for increasing the utility of your line mends. I learned a bunch of new tricks on this podcast and I am sure you will as well. There are some helpful tips from listeners and some questions that may answer things you have been curious about, including: When would you use a drop shot nymphing rig? Have you ever used a dry fly, nymph, and wet fly at the same time? I am debating about which Helios rod to buy. Should I get the 9 foot 5 weight or the 9-foot 5-inch version? Can I use the longer rod for wade fishing? A listener gives his version of a Euro rig for steelhead. Which 10-foot rod should I get for Lake Erie steelhead? Do you think tying a dropper to the bend of a hook is any hindrance to fish taking the upper…

When is a trout a steelhead and when is it a rainbow? Are steelhead just rainbow trout that migrate to the ocean? Is it something in their genes or just random chance? And in a given population of rainbow trout, will only some of them migrate to the ocean? And according to a biologist, are the Great Lakes "steelhead" truly steelhead? My guest fisheries biologist Katie Kobayashi [32:13] has studied these fish down to the genetic level and has some exciting information on their life histories. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions that I think will be helpful to many of you, including: If I hook a trout in the back behind the dorsal fin, will it survive OK? And can I count this fish as "caught"? What is the most useful saltwater fly line for inshore species? For my smaller creeks in Pennsylvania, would an 8 ½ foot 4-weight or 7 1/2-foot 3-weight be better? Have you used articulated flies? Have you had success with them? Are there articulated subsurface flies other than streamers? I have an…

My guest this week is Orvis-endorsed guide Joe Garza [32:54], a guide from JAG Fly Fishing, who explains the intricacies of still water trout fishing. He discusses common mistakes that anglers make, the importance of understanding food sources, and the need for patience in still water environments. Joe shares insights on matching fly profiles and colors to natural food, as well as effective techniques for using indicators. The conversation emphasizes the unique challenges of still water fishing compared to moving water, providing valuable tips for both novice and experienced anglers. He shares his extensive knowledge on fly fishing in still waters, focusing on techniques such as the hand twist retrieve, effective casting, and the importance of proper hook setting. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining tension in the line and understanding fish behavior, particularly in relation to external factors like weather and water temperature. In the Fly Box this week we have a lot of questions about tackle and…

My guest this week is philosophy professor and fly fisher Thi Nguyen [33:31], who has spent his career studying the psychology and the value of games to our mental well-being. He argues that fly fishing is not one game but an infinite number of games that can be played by rules that we invent to challenge ourselves. And you might even change your rules within a single day of fishing. This podcast and my discussions with him have changed the way I view and teach fly fishing and I hope the interview will be equally fascinating to you. The Fly Box this week has some interesting tips and questions. Perhaps not as thought-provoking but still interesting, and I hope helpful. Will a premium rod magnify my casting mistakes? Will my 4-weight Helios handle brown trout over 20 inches? Can you elaborate on why someone would want to use two indicators and how to set them up? Will my nymphs sink better with 12-pound fluorocarbon or with lighter tippet? I am confused by the differences in hook sizes recommended for various…

In this episode, my guest is Brian Slusser [32:13], an Orvis endorsed guide based in Truckee, California, who tells us about the nuances of winter streamer fishing. With over 29 years of guiding experience, Brian shares his insights on effective techniques for fishing during the colder months, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the unique conditions of winter. He discusses the significance of dressing appropriately for the cold, the best times to fish, and the types of setups and flies that work best in winter conditions. Brian also highlights the advantages of using streamers over traditional nymphs during this season, providing listeners with practical tips to enhance their winter fishing experience. In the Fly Box this week, we have the following questions form listeners: What time of year should I go to the Florida Keys for tarpon? Do I need to get a warm-water fly line for tarpon? When fighting a tarpon, do I need to point my rod at them when they jump? What do you think of treble hooks for…

Want to get away from the crowds? Want a high mountain lake or stream all to yourself? The best way to do this is to take a backpacking trip, but you need to prepare more than you would for a car trip or a trip to a lodge. What exactly should you take and what should you leave behind? What kinds of flies and accessories should you bring? How can you save weight and still have enough gear for a fun fishing trip? Derek Bargaehr [37:36], an experienced fly fisher and backpacker, gives us tips on how to make the most of your next backpacking trip. In the Fly Box this week, we have some questions. A couple of which could only be answered by my co-workers at Orvis so we have responses from both Pete Kutzer, our casting guru and Shawn Brillon, our bamboo rod craftsman. How can I easily estimate how much backing is on my unlabeled reels? A listener relates how some podcast advice on emergers helped him and his son have a successful trip I took a lesson on two-handed casting and it was all done on grass. Was this…

This episode was originally published on July 14th, 2023. I think most stream anglers are interested in foraging, since we're immersed in nature all day long and although we watch for fish and insects and birds, many of us don't pay attention to the plants. And there are many delicious plants along trout streams you can take home for dinner—most of which will be more nutritionally dense than what you buy in the store—and free. If you have done any foraging at all, you have probably read some of more of Sam Thayer's [40:38] books. In our household his books are the primary source. I was lucky enough to spend some time talking to Sam about why foraging along streams is especially good, and what we can expect to find there. In the Fly Box this week, we have no phone calls but some great questions via e-mail, including: Why do trout in small streams take flies more readily when the water is high? Where do you recommend I go trout fishing in the East in July when I visit this summer? A great story about a…

This episode was originally published on August 19th, 2022. Want to know how a bamboo fly rod is made? How long it takes to make one? How many different hands touch an Orvis bamboo fly rod before you (and your children and grandchildren) become its lucky owner. And finally, what's so great about bamboo fly rods? How are they different from fiberglass and graphite, and what will they do for you on the water? This week I interview Orvis bamboo fly rod craftsman Shawn Brillon [45:09], who loves to talk bamboo rods as much as he enjoys making and fishing them. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions and tips from listeners, including: I could catch rising trout in one part of a pool, but when I moved 50 meters upstream I couldn't catch any. What was going on? How do I determine the correct size leader if I am going from a single size 16 fly to a hopper or multiple nymph rig? What are your thoughts on weed guards on flies? I caught a dragonfly on my elk hair caddis. Am I the first? I hooked a trout…

This episode was originally published on March 10th, 2023. Learn how to decide between a canoe and a kayak, what kind to get, and how to maneuver and cast using these hard-sided watercraft (next week I'll be doing a podcast on inflatables). Ryan Lilly [47:30] is a fly fisher and Old Town's expert on fishing from these craft, and has many great suggestions for how to make the most out of your canoe or kayak experience. In the Fly Box this week, we have some interesting questions that I'm sure will be of interest to many of you, as well as some thoughtful tips from other listeners, including: What do bead-head nymphs imitate? Aren't flies tied without beads more natural in the water? Isn't it more natural to use a nymph without any added weight? How do you fish wet flies? Do you use a single one or more than one? And do you ever use weighted wet flies? I recently saw a bunch of large carp in a pond in Florida. Why didn't I see any smaller ones? I had trouble getting a good drift against the slow water on the…

My guest this week is photography expert and co-host of the Petapixel podcast Chris Niccolls [28:39]. Chris has access to nearly every kind of expensive camera in the world because he evaluates photo equipment for his day job. But when he is fishing, guess what he takes most of his photographs and videos with? You guessed it—his iPhone. Chris shares tips on how to set up your shot, how to get a photograph and still have minimal fish handling, and what settings to use on your phone. He also gives great tips on setting up the scene so that your photos are better than just grip & grin snapshots. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and tips: You say Orvis fly rods are true to line weight but you say you use a line that is a half-size heavy. Why? With a fly line that is rated for colder water, is it OK to use it for the occasional largemouth bass fishing trip in warmer water? A tip from a listener on how to get an estimate of a fish's length and weight using AI. A tip from a listener on great places…

My guest this week is Captain Dan Andrews [37:51], co-founder and CEO of Captains for Clean Water, one of Orvis' most trusted conservation partners. Orvis has been aligned with this grass roots group since their inception and it's been a valuable partnership. Dan tells us what is going on with the Everglades restoration project, what progress has been made, how it has affected the fisheries, and current threats to progress. He is also very optimistic about this winter's fishing conditions in Florida and looks into his crystal ball to predict how fishing will be in various regions of the Florida Coast this year. If you live in Florida or spend time visiting there during the winter you'll want to listen to this one. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions and tips, including: -Do you think it's worth it to fish bugs on a marginal river with a lower fish count, or should you focus on covering water with a streamer? -Should I get my 14-year-old grandson a fiberglass or graphite rod for Christmas?…

I am not a big fan of using split shot but after this interview with Dom Swentosky [36:41] of the Troutbitten blog and podcast, I'm going to use it a lot more. Dom's method of using split shot is simple and convenient, and he teaches us about placement, adding shot, and removing shot easily—and how to keep it from sliding on your tippet without placing it above a knot. Whether you fish nymphs or streamers, Dom has some great suggestions on using split shot properly. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great tips and questions form listeners, including: Is a 10-foot, 4-weight fly rod a good all-around rod for fishing in New England? If I have a floating and full sinking line for bass fishing, would an intermediate line be the next one to try for largemouth bass? Why aren't there more resources like books on fly fishing for largemouth bass? How many different floating fly lines do you have at home? When you are taking a trip, how many floating lines do you take? I have been steelhead fishing in Alaska with…

Confused about which floating trout line to pick when you need a new one? I'm not surprised as today there is a dizzying array of options and nearly everyone is confused. If you understand what the various options offer the decision is much easier, so I asked product developer Jesse Haller [41:00] to help all of us make this important choice. We talk about what you get in the more expensive lines that you don't get in the price-point lines. We discuss tapers, whether your fly line should be a standard weight or a half- or quarter- or full-size heavy, smooth vs. textured, clear vs. opaque, fly line colors, and other options. And take heart, we also give you the best option for an all-purpose floating trout line. In the Fly Box this week, we have the following questions and tips from listeners: Help in picking an array of fly rods and lines for fishing for various species in Pennsylvania. How to get deeper for crappie in fall. Is there a way to determine the line size of older, non-labeled fly lines? Is…

I've had requests in the past for a podcast about chasing coastal cutthroats, so this week my guest is author, "retired" guide, and all-around thoughtful angler Dylan Tomine [33:12]. He tells us where to find them, what kinds of tides and conditions are best, and what flies and techniques work well for these fish that are close to many cities in the Northwest. In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and more: Advice on the best 6-weight to choose for all-around fly fishing. I am having trouble deciding between a 9foot 5-weight and a 4-weight Superfine. Please help me decide When should I use micro-swivels in my trout setup? Should I worry about getting bitten by a snapping turtle when wading a smallmouth river? Why do I see people playing steelhead with their rod held horizontally, pointing at the fish. Aren't you supposed to keep a bend in your rod? Can I use the Orvis Knot as a loop knot? Can you review how we should handle fish to increase their chances of survival? What can I do to renew the…

I've wanted to get Brian Flechsig of Mad River Outfitters [49:59] on the podcast for quite a while and we finally made it happen. Brian is the star of many great YouTube videos and he loves to get into the details of tackle rigging. He's a knotted leader expert and he explains his simple three-part system for tying saltwater and bass leaders. He also talks about his use of furled leaders and the now-extinct Orvis Braided Leaders. Brian and I also discuss our favorite knots and a philosophy for choosing your own knots—always a hot topic. In the Fly Box this week we have these questions and tips: When does it make more sense to modify a fly instead of changing flies? If you don't see any bug activity, can you still catch fish on dry flies? Why would you ever use a strike indicator when you can use a dry dropper rig? I live on a trout stream that hardly anyone else fishes. How long should I rest the river in between trips? Will the fish move out if I fish it too hard? I saw a bunch of dead and struggling…

You can catch salmon and steelhead on a fly in salt water before they enter rivers. The fish are bright and strong and may still be actively feeding but the problem is to find them in a big expanse of water. Reed Teuscher [41:01] of the Orvis Outfitters team tells us where to look for them, how to present the fly, what kinds of rods and lines you need—and of course what fly patterns seem to work best. In the Fly Box this week we have these questions and more: How can I keep my dropper from twisting around the leader when Euro nymphing? What kinds of flies are banned and why? If I only fish a few days a year, how long will my fly lines last? Do guides tell Tom "set!" when he fishes with them? And do they tell him where to put his flies? Do brook trout feed less than brown trout during spawning season? Am I missing something by not building my own leaders? What does a 3-weight rod give me that my 4-weight won't? When you under-line a fly rod and increase your line speed, does that detract from your accuracy?…

It happens to all of us, and sometimes it seems like every time we take a fishing trip, conditions are less than ideal. Water too high, water too low, water temperature too warm or too cold. Dirty water. You know the litany. James Spica [34:18], writer and fishing manager of the Orvis store in Royal Oak, Michigan, has some great tips on what to do when you encounter these situations—where to fish, how to fish your fly, and some patterns he would never go anywhere in the world without that help him deal with adverse fishing conditions. James gives us tips for both freshwater and saltwater trips and I took a lot of my own notes on this one! In the Fly Box this week, we have some great tips and interesting questions, including: Are all fly lines today one size heavy? Can I use my 5-weight line on my new 6-weight rod? A tip from a listener on the best way to carry multiple fly rigs to the river after constructing them at home. How can I start my roll cast to get a decent amount of line out when I have no back…