Casting Across Fly Fishing

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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With the passing of a great author, something much more significant is lost than a new title every few years. First and foremost a man is gone. Beyond that, the fly fishing world has lost a voice.

Today I reflect a bit on Gierach's impact on the fly fishing world. From adding popular phrases to spurring on countless imitators, he moved generations of anglers in many ways.

At the heart of it all is the fact that he was a consistent voice for anglers across five decades. Consistency, especially today, matters.

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This episode is an overflow of this week. On the website I've focused on the region that has been most impacted by Hurricane Helene, and I'm going to continue to do so on the podcast.

Even though southern Appalachia is remote and wild, it is incredibly close to so the vast majority of those who live along the eastern seaboard. That happens to be a large number of this country's people. This is why the mountains and hollows are accessible and loved by so many. This is also why the relative silence about their present plight is confusing.

This podcast isn't going to change anything. But people can.

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Not all of you are hunters. That is fine. But within the first five minutes of the podcast I have some real, practical advice for how anglers who don't hunt have a legitimate opportunity for better fishing if they are aware of the hunting seasons.

That, and a piece of advice on how to not get shot.

In this week's episode, I discuss the wonderful dilemma of "to hunt or to fish or to do both" that we encounter in the autumn. There are a few anecdotes, some gear recommendations, and a handful of questions I pose for you to answer for yourself.

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In the realm of Casting Across, visual media serves the written and spoken word. Still, a nice picture helps.

Today, I talk through some things that are important to consider as you photograph your fly fishing. From gear to approach to subject matter, I hit on some tips that might make your camera roll or your social media profile a little more interesting.

Plus, on the heels of "Releasing Fish Well," this is a reminder that the fish are a lot more important than likes. But you still can take mementos with you as they swim away happy and healthy.

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You've managed to get on the water. You've figured out how to get the fly in front of a fish. You've somehow convinced it to bit said fly. You've fought it your your hand or net.

Now what?

If you're interested in the common practice of catch and release, there are some things that are good to do. (They're even better for the fish.) In this beginner-focused episode, I actually begin what releasing well involves long before you catch a fish. Some of these steps might be common sense. Others might sound odd. Regardless, this is helpful for anglers of all experience levels to know and to be able to communicate.

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Rightfully so, many consumers think that marketing is out to divide them from their hard earned money. Consequently, most hype surrounding new or novel innovations is received with a fair amount of skepticism.

But what if some of these features are more than gimmicks?

Today I'm sharing four products with design or function elements that I have heard people call "gimmicky." While I don't think any are worth paying exorbitantly more for, I do think they have their merits. Listen as I walk through each and give reasons why you may very well consider adding such a piece of equipment to your collection... or even your main rotation.

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Countless tourists head to coastal New England cities, towns, and remote coastlines every year. Trust me: I sit behind you as I try to get around during my normal day-to-day.

With around 6,000 miles of coastline, there is room for all of us. And there is just that much more room for stripers, bluefish, and a number of other species that will gladly chase a fly.

On today's podcast, I give a high level overview of fly fishing the New England states. With apologies to landlocked Vermont, I touch on some general things that will get you looking in the right direction as you either plan a fishing trip or plan on tagging some fishing on your family vacation.

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