July 25, 2025

S7, Ep 66: Tales of a Fly Fishing Legend: Remembering Dave Whitlock

1 hour 14 minutes

Join this special episode of The Articulate Fly fishing podcast as Henry Cowen and Allen Rupp share intimate stories about their friendships with legendary angler, tier and artist Dave Whitlock and his profound impact on their fly fishing careers.

Guest Expertise: Two Perspectives on Dave's Legacy

Henry Cowen, author of "Fly Fishing for Freshwater Striped Bass" and renowned Lake Lanier guide, discusses his deep connection with Dave over their shared passion for freshwater striper fishing. Henry reveals how Dave's insights shaped his understanding of striper behavior and fly design, including their extensive correspondence about tactics and seasonal fishing patterns.

Allen Rupp, Dave's hand-selected legacy tier and founder of the NearNuff fly schools, shares his unique perspective as Dave's protégé. Allen discusses the intensive mentoring he received, learning over 130 of Dave's 400+ fly patterns and the philosophy behind Dave's perfectionist approach to fly tying.

What You'll Learn: Dave Whitlock's Lasting Influence

Discover how Dave Whitlock revolutionized fly fishing by making species like bluegill, carp and freshwater stripers "cool" to target decades before today's multi-species movement. Learn about Dave's teaching philosophy that emphasized stopping to fix imperfect flies rather than accepting "good enough," and how this approach elevated both guests' tying skills.

Featured Techniques: From Letters to Legacy

Hear fascinating stories about Dave's handwritten correspondence, including detailed diagrams and multi-page letters that served as personal fly fishing tutorials. Allen shares specific techniques Dave taught him, including proper eye and operculum placement on baitfish patterns and the development of signature flies like the NearNuff crayfish and sculpin.

Preserving Dave's Legacy: Education and Conservation

Learn about Allen's specialized NearNuff schools that teach Dave's techniques and philosophies. Discover how both guests are working to preserve Dave's contributions through the American Museum of Fly Fishing and continued education efforts.

Whether you're a striper enthusiast, serious fly tier or simply appreciate fly fishing history, this heartfelt tribute reveals the man behind the legendary patterns and his lasting impact on generations of anglers.