What are confidence flies? Of course, it is a thing people say. But is it a real thing?

I maintain that it is. And these flies don't only give you a leg up when you're fishing them: I think that we can learn a lot about how to fish any and every fly if we pay attention to how we're fishing our confidence flies.

So while  the topic might seem a bit philosophical or abstract, there is truly something to explore for a few minutes. After all, would you rather fish with confidence or with apprehension?

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After perusing a handful of books about tying and fishing midges, and in anticipation of turning to these tiny flies for much of my winter angling, I thought I'd share a potpourri of midge information today.

While even tying them on might seem like a chore, the part that midges play in most trout diets makes them impossible to ignore. Even the biggest fish will gorge themselves on bugs that match a size 28 fly pattern. Getting comfortable with fishing these flies goes a long way. And today I discuss some of the tying, fishing, and storage tips that have helped me over the decades.

Whether you're a believer in midges or not, listen and get excited about angling with the smallest flies out there.

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It is awfully nice to be the first one to unwrap the plastic from a smooth cork handle or to wipe the excess factory grease from a disc drag.

It is also nice to save a few hundred bucks.

In this installment of Casting Across, I'm talking about finding and evaluating used gear. I'm focusing primarily on rods and reels, but the principles apply to pretty much anything the angler might need. Buying used can be a great way to snag a good deal. And, as I explain, not all "used" fishing gear has actually been used.

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Today's podcast features a question, an accusation (maybe), and a response to a dozen or so comments. All in less than 25 minutes!

I discuss "traditional" nymphing tactics and encourage you that you already fish this way. Then, I field a statement made about how we cut the tag end off our knots. Lastly, I take a quick dive into a topic that transcends all others. The thing is, each and every one of these segments is very "Casting Across." It all feels squarely within the wheelhouse of what I do here.

As always, I appreciate any and all interaction with my readers, listeners, and viewers. Please don't hesitate to reach out!

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Maybe you've noticed that there are a  lot of books about fly fishing.

You needn't have consumed the loads of literary content on Casting Across to know that fly fishing and writing go together. Whether it be gripping narratives, applicable techniques, or pertinent stream guides, a book will help you in some way, shape, or form with your fly fishing. And they go a long way in tethering us to one another and the anglers who came before us.

In this Cast1 installment of the podcast, I share some recommendations from the aforementioned categories for new anglers. Even if you've been doing this for a while, there should be something for you.

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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 walk through how I go about putting a fly rod review together. I approach the process in a particular way, with a handful of different variables in mind. I also share how I'll never be able to provide the depth of information some other platforms do. Still, I do think that my two cents are worth taking into consideration as you go on to spend your hard-earned hundreds.

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Outdoor activities are inherently risky. While your home is likely where you're going to get hurt or run into trouble, being in wild places can lead to potential hazards.

Some have to do with critters. Most have to do with other people.

Even though there is a small chance of something problematic happening if you're on the river, there is still a small chance. With a few simple steps you can do a lot to mitigate those risks and pursue your hobbies with confidence and not fear.

Plus, I start out the podcast discussing peace and meaning in fly fishing, the outdoors, and everything.

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Not all fly fishing presentations can be bushy dry flies over trout that will range five feet to rise with abandon. Because of the ridiculous quantity of foodstuffs in most rivers, fish are looking for a reasonable offering that is within a few inches of their noses. And since fish live underwater that means nymphs drifting at the right depth.

Getting all that to happen involves more than experimenting with split shot. In fact, I'd like to offer up an approach where a cast-altering weight is the last ditch effort.

Today I share five things I like to think about when it comes to getting your fly down deep in tricky scenarios. And as per usual, they involve using your head a lot more than your tackle box.

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I own some positively diminutive fly rods for angling in the mountains. And I revel in the plethora of options when it comes to 9-foot 4-, 5-, and 6-weights. But every once in a while the right tool for the job is just a little bit longer.

Today I share four reasons why a longer fly rod might be the ticket for your fly fishing. That might mean taking a 9-footer up in the mountains, or that might entail fishing with a 9'6" rod.

The reality is that rod length can really impact your cast and your presentation. If circumstances deem a different piece of equipment, it might be worth considering switching up your most important angling tool.

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I like questions. When I get the same question a handful of times in quick succession, that topic gets shifted to the top of the subject matter pile.

Recently, a number of fine fly fishing folk have asked me about what I consider to be the essential gear for minimalism or travel. In this episode I give my answer. But before I go over the what I discuss the why. This is because your reasoning for carrying less may necessitate a completely different loadout  than what I bring with me when I travel or stash gear in my car.

A fun topic to think about, consider why and what you bring with you when you want or have to move lightly.

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