Merry (early) Christmas from Casting Across!

Along with sharing some exciting news for the upcoming year, I return to a holiday tradition that has been a part of the podcast for a handful of seasons. It isn't exactly my reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, but I think you will appreciate the selection even more than that classic.

Also, please send in your questions, comments, and accusations for inclusion on an upcoming podcast!

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Try as you might, you can't fish without knots. And just like a spelling test, you have no excuse to not do well. You can practice them until you fingers go numb.

Today I'm running through my favorite knots from fly to backing. There may very well be better knots out there, but these have served me well under varied scenarios in two decades of fly fishing.

But only start here. Head online and check out some diagrams and helpful animations to help put these knots into practice.

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No matter if you're a beginner or an expert, there are ways to improve your efficiency on the water. Now if that sounds clinical and not at all cohesive with the artistic flair that accompanies fly fishing, bear with me.

Efficiency is all about being able to to what you want to do when you want to do it. Today I walk through three things that anyone can do to gain a greater understanding of the equipment and technique that everyone needs to enjoy angling.

The best part? Nothing is expensive, complicated, or exclusive. Anyone can do it. And there is a good chance - I'd say a great chance that you have already dipped your toe in each of these three things.

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We have a lot to be thankful for. This is a universal truth, but is especially applicable for fly fishers.

Today I walk through a handful of things most fly fishers are (or should be) thankful for. But first, I dive into some gifts that are the kind of thing that you could (or should) give to anyone this holiday seeing. And, as I discuss, both giving gifts and being appreciative of the gifts we have been given are wonderful opportunities the season presents.

Happy Thanksgiving from Casting Across.

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A random errand led to my being face-to-face with a $20 fly rod/reel/line combo. It even came with flies. Around me, people were shopping for car batteries and Barbie dolls. I examined the reel. I assessed the flies. I debated scanning the QR code on the package. It wasn't for me, but it didn't look half bad for a $20 Wal-Mart fly fishing rig.

For everyone who starts their fly fishing life off with the Orvis silver spoon in their mouth, there are probably a few others who get after it with department store gear. Who is to say who catches more fish on that first trip out?

Today I talk a little bit about the place that inexpensive gear plays in the fly fishing world. It might not be for you, but remember that it might have been at one time.

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In the complicated system required for fly fishing that is man and equipment, your wrist might be the most fickle. For the same reason it is an incredibly flexible and dexterous joint it can lead your cast very, very astray.

While the best way to straighten out your casting woes is to practice, today I share a few wrist-related issues that may lead to problems. And problems like reduced line speed and increased fatigue are worth ironing out if possible.

Hopefully these 20 minutes will spark some interest into making some small changes that will payoff big time.

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You can spend a lot of money on a boat for your fly fishing endeavors. There's the cost of the craft itself, then the trailer, then the accessories, then the truck to pull it more efficiently...

While I've enjoyed the quality drift boats, skiffs, and bass rigs I've fished from over the years, the vast majority of my time on the water has been in smaller crafts. And I think they suit me just fine.

Today I'm talking about easy watercraft. Easy to acquire, easy to transport, and easy to use.

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None of us should be so set in our ways that we're unable to be pried out of the groove we've worn. In fly fishing, in particular, we should not be so entrenched in opinions that we're dogmatic. It is good to have an opinion. But opinions can change.

Today I share 5 opinions that I've held and changed over my fly fishing years. There are plenty more. But these five hit the highlights: gear, trout, and conservation.

Take a listen, and then consider how you have changed your mind. Or, and this might be happening right now: how you might be currently in the process of changing your mind.

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Did you know that is a presidential election year?!?

Since I think the "rule" to avoid talking about money, religion, and politics is stupid, I talk about politics today on the podcast. But I think you'd agree that it is more philosophical than partisan. And it has to do with fly fishing. I promise.

And just so you feel like you're getting your money's worth, I also add in a quick gear tip in the beginning.

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I do miss things from time to time. And on this episode I come clean about missing two important things. You've probably survived, but I need to make it right.

On another feedback-based episode, I answer questions about the following:

Check out those segments, along with a really excellent weekly recommendation, on this week's podcast.

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