Southeastern Fly

In this episode, we slow things down and reflect on a question that feels simple at first but carries a lot of weight once you sit with it: what really is the best seat on the river? We take a thoughtful ride through seasons, boats, friendships, and family, looking at how our perspective changes over time and how fly fishing has a way of marking those changes if we pay attention.

This one is less about tactics and more about people. It’s about watching anglers grow, roles shift, and moments pass that don’t always announce themselves while they’re happening. The river keeps moving, and so do we.

Highlights of the Episode:

1. Exploring the question of what truly makes the best seat on the river, from drift boats to gravel bars to warming up in the truck on a cold day.
2. A guide’s perspective on why the front seat of a drift boat offers such a unique view of the water and the fishing unfolding ahead.
3. A long-running story of a father and son who fished together for years, gradually improving their skills and deepening their relationship on the river.
4. The subtle but meaningful moment when the son insists his dad take the front seat, signaling a shift in roles shaped by time and experience.
5. Reflections on aging, gratitude, and recognizing special moments before they quietly pass.
6. The transition to a third generation, with a grandson now riding in the front seat and carrying family memories forward.
7. A reminder that the best seat on the river isn’t fixed. Sometimes it’s the front, sometimes the back, and sometimes it’s simply being there at all.

Resources:

1. Visit southeasternfly.com
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Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we sit down with Neil Norman, a writer, lifelong angler, and Smokies regular, to talk about far more than fish. Neil’s upcoming book, Tight Lines and Tall Tale Stories of Southern Appalachian Fly Fishing, serves as a backdrop for a wide-ranging conversation about mountain history, old fishing methods, unforgettable characters, and the deep sense of place that defines fly fishing in Appalachia.

We spend time exploring how fishing in the southern Appalachians is inseparable from its stories. From rough-looking hollers that turned out to be filled with kindness, to warning shots fired near suburban creeks, Neil shares experiences that highlight the contrast between perceived danger and genuine mountain hospitality.

1. Backcountry Myths and Realities: Neil shares stories from fishing rough-looking Appalachian hollers, where perceived danger often gave way to generosity, kindness, and deep-rooted mountain etiquette.
2. From Pasture Water to Plunge Pools: A look at how fishing long, sandy New River runs shaped Neil’s approach, and how that foundation translated into Smokies-style pocket water and steep plunge pools.
3. Old-School Tactics That Still Work: We dig into monofilament fishing, homemade split shot, and techniques born from necessity that remain deadly effective in Appalachian trout water.
4. Flies with a History: Neil breaks down classic Southern Appalachian patterns, including the Sheep Fly, and explains why fishing historic flies in historic places adds another layer to the experience.
5. Preachers, Faith, and Fishing Days: Stories of mountain preachers who treated time on the water as sacred, blending faith, routine, and fly fishing into Appalachian life.
6. The One That Got Away: A winter encounter with a massive spawning rainbow on a tiny tributary near Watauga Lake, complete with a flashing dorsal fin and a lesson in humility.
7. Post-Fishing Eats in Townsend: Neil shares his go-to food stops after a day in the Smokies, from casual bites at Peaceful Side Social to a full sit-down experience at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro.

Resources:

1. Visit southeasternfly.com
2. Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

What does it really mean to care for the waters we fish? In this mid-month episode of the Southeastern Fly Podcast, we tackle that question head-on—because the answer starts with each of us.

Today we welcome back Jason McReynolds, guide and owner of Flying Soho and board member of the Blue Ridge Guides Association, to explore what it means to take ownership of our rivers and give back to the places that give us so much.

Jason returns after his last appearance on Episode 89 (“Fishing Streamers”) to share updates from Upper East Tennessee and to discuss the impact of recent storms, river debris, and community efforts to clean and preserve the waters we all depend on.

Together, we dive into the shared responsibility anglers, guides, and outdoor enthusiasts have to maintain clean, healthy rivers—and how organized cleanups make a real difference.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Whose River Is It? Reflecting on how we each experience and value rivers in our own way—and what that means for stewardship.
• From Talk to Action: David shares his “one-piece rule,” while Jason explains how his team turns small actions into large-scale cleanups.
• Organizing a Cleanup: Jason outlines what it takes to plan a successful river cleanup, from picking dates to partnering with local organizations.
• Incentives and Impact: How community support, great prizes, and volunteer spirit combine to make each event a success.
• After the Storm: The crew discusses recovery efforts and massive debris fields left behind by Hurricane Helene—and why continued cleanup is vital.
• Fishing Report: Streamer season is heating up, with rainbows and browns feeding aggressively on shad through the lower stretches of the Watauga and South Holston.

Remember, keeping our rivers clean isn’t someone else’s job—it’s everyone’s. Join the conversation, mark your calendar for March, and help make a difference wherever you fish.

Resources:

• Visit FlyingSoho.com
• Instagram: @flyingsoho
• Learn more about the Blue Ridge Guides Association cleanup and events
• Sign up for the Southeastern Fly Newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events.

Listen, share, and go fish—and leave the river better than you found it. 🎣 

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of the Southeastern Fly Podcast, host David Perry welcomes returning guest Rob Jeeves for a deep dive into DIY Fly Fishing North Carolina. Rob—who cut his fly-fishing teeth in the Tar Heel State before moving north—shares hard-earned insights on planning and fishing a self-guided trip through the region's freestones, headwaters, and neighboring tailwaters.

They cover everything from gear and fly selection to reading water, fishing etiquette, and why Western North Carolina continues to call anglers back. Rob also gives behind-the-scenes stories from his YouTube channel and his recent post—Hurricane Helene series that revisited many of his favorite Appalachian streams.

Highlights of the Episode

• A Lifelong Connection: Rob's fly fishing story began while studying at NC State and evolved into years of exploring mountain waters like Stone Mountain, Helton Creek, and the Elk River around Banner Elk.
• Freestone Favorites: Insights into fishing high-elevation brook trout streams and valley rivers—how to pack multiple rods, pick versatile flies like the Elk Hair Caddis and pheasant tail, and read tight mountain water.
• Tailwater Talk: A look across the Tennessee line to the Watauga and South Holston—what to know about generation schedules, long leaders, and using local fly shops for up-to-date hatch info.
• DIY Done Right: How to plan a North Carolina fishing trip that balances comfort and adventure—whether you're camping along the Davidson or staying in an Airbnb near Boone or Brevard (bonus tip: bring a paper map, not just your phone).
• Beyond the Fishing: The camaraderie of the Psycho Fly Fishers, 25 years strong, reminds us that great trips are about more than fish—community, memories, and shared time on the water.
• Post-Helene Perspective: Rob's YouTube series documents the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the resilience of mountain communities rebuilding their homes, bridges, and beloved trout streams.
• Food Stops Worth the Drive: Don't miss local gems like The Starving Squirrel, Banner Elk Café, Pie on the Mountain in Lansing, and the Old Hampton Store and Barbecue in Linville.

Whether you're plotting your first DIY fishing road trip or just want to relive time on familiar waters, this episode captures the spirit, simplicity, and soul of fly fishing in the Blue Ridge. This is for sure a must-listen for anglers who want to explore North Carolina's mountain waters.

• Instagram: @robjeeves
• YouTube: RobJeeves1972
• The Starving Squirrel — Great spot for coffee and breakfast in the High Country.
• Old Hampton Store & Barbecue — Classic Southern BBQ and live music.
• Pie on the Mountain — Must-stop for pizza in Lansing.
• Banner Elk Café — Local favorite mentioned by Rob.

🎣 Explore more episodes and guides at Southeastern Fly. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter.

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Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we crack open a practical primer on caddis flies—what they are, how to spot them, and simple ways to fish each stage. We recorded this one from our “satellite offices” in Florissant, Colorado, and it’s all about translating river observations into flies that work right now on Southeastern waters.

Highlights of the Episode

• Caddis 101, quick and clear: life stages from egg → larva → pupa → adult—and why that sequence matters for your fly selection.
• Reading the river: vegetation is your friend—it feeds caddis larvae and signals where to drift (and what snags to expect).
• Soft-hackle smarts: think “legs forward” and a touch more bulk at the head when imitating the pupa rising to the film.
• Skate the dry: flip the hackle, keep it riding high, and add motion—then trail a soft hackle to cover the pupa coming up behind it.
• The evening show: look for bouncing egg-laying females in the last couple hours of light; they can trigger some of the most visual eats of the day.
• Match what’s actually there: kick-net a riffle, turn a rock, photograph shucks and adults in scum lines, then tie (or buy) to size/shape/color.
• Same river, different bugs: expect color and size shifts by section or tributary—one box won’t fit the whole tailwater.
• Field tip: if you’re wading and find risers, park and run that skating-dry/soft-hackle combo until the light fades.

If you want us to go deeper on bugs or do a tying-focused follow-up, let us know—your ideas drive future episodes. While you’re here, tap to sign up for the newsletter for extra how-to content, and if you’re enjoying the show, please leave a positive review wherever you listen. Thanks for being part of Southeastern Fly!

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we dig into one of East Tennessee’s most intriguing tailwaters—the Holston (proper), below Cherokee Dam. With Knoxville guide Capt. Jeff Sharp riding shotgun, we map out the river’s fishy 52–53 miles, break down the famed caddis and sulfur programs, and share practical tactics for both trout and smallmouth—plus a few hard-earned stories (including the popper-eating smallie that still haunts Jeff).

Highlights of the Episode:

• The Holston offers two personalities: cool upper trout water and bronzeback-rich lower stretches.
• Spring brings the famed caddis hatch; May and June deliver sulfur magic.
• When dries fail, soft hackles, midges, and rubber legs shine.
• Streamers and poppers tempt both trout and smallmouth without heavy gear.
• Pressure is real—weekdays and flexible start times help dodge the crowds.
• Indian Cave and Nancy’s Ferry ramps give access, with Panther Creek nearby for camping.
• Local flavor counts: breakfast in Blaine, wings at The Hill, and clean stays in Jefferson City.

If you’re chasing a day with dries, emergers, and a real shot at both trout and bronzebacks—plus miles of varied water to learn—put the Holston on your list.

Give it a listen, share with your fishing partners, and then go fish.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we take you along on a saltwater run to Dauphin Island. What started as a quick hit-and-run turned into a day-and-a-half of lessons on packing light, listening to your guide, and making the most of limited shots in the Gulf. From tripletail to tarpon-style waiting games, we cover what makes salt trips unique and how to set yourself up for success.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Travel light—essentials only, let your guide supply the flies and tackle.
• Fishing with a buddy keeps things smooth, and borrowing rods beats hauling extras.
• Stand ready on the bow, avoid “leg lock,” and sway with the swell.
• Strip plenty of line off before the cast and help your partner keep decks clear.
• Guides know the cadence—short, calm strips often out-fish frantic retrieves.
• Saltwater fish are tough to find but often eager once spotted.
• Pivoting species and plans is part of the game; flexibility pays off.

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We also drew the winner of our TFO fly rod giveaway—congrats to Connor Baker! More giveaways and gear discounts are coming soon through the newsletter. Whether you’re planning your first salt trip or heading back for more, this episode will help you pack smarter, fish calmer, and enjoy the ride.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Conklin of TFO to demystify fly rod technology—what really makes one rod feel “better” than another, how length and taper translate on the water, and why practice beats price every time. We dig into practical choices anglers face, from building a daily driver to picking a specialized stick, and we call out a few industry realities that affect every shop and every caster.

Highlights of the Episode:

• The best rod is the one that fits your casting style, not the highest price tag.
• Rod costs come from components, cork, reel seats, finish, labor, and marketing.
• Longer rods offer efficiency in line pick-up, repositioning, and safer wading—not just distance.
• Action is where the rod bends; power is its resistance—accuracy comes from the caster.
• Watch your line to read your cast, start slow and finish fast, and learn the double haul.
• Always cast rods before buying—shops, shows, and friends are great places to try them out.
• Tariffs and regulations are driving up costs across rods, reels, lines, and apparel.
• Nick’s favorites include sharks in the Texas surf, Great Lakes steelhead, and Montana browns.
• For Dallas eats: St. Pete’s Dancing Marlin, Las Palapas, and classic Texas BBQ judged by the sides.
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Whether you’re picking your first rod or adding a specialty stick, this episode will help you choose wisely and cast better—be sure to follow, share, and leave us a quick review.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we dig into one of our favorite summer tactics: sight fishing. From salt to fresh, we talk through how we slow down, observe, and turn “hunt mode” on—so we’re not just casting at water, we’re casting at fish. Along the way, we share a quick story about post‑storm scum lines turning on, the calm mindset that helps you make the shot, and a few simple prep habits that keep you from blowing it when a big one finally slides into range.

Key Highlights:

• Where sight fishing shines: dries, streamers, nymphs, and even crustaceans—in fresh or salt—whenever water clarity gives you a window. It’s fishing that feels like hunting.
• See first, cast second: polarized lenses are non‑negotiable; match lens color to conditions and revisit our sunglasses deep‑dive in Episode 48 for more.
• Gain elevation and “play not‑a‑fish”: get higher to look down into the water; rule out rocks, logs, and shadows until the fish reveals itself.
• Reading the pattern: after a summer storm, fish slid two to three feet under the surface and rose softly along narrow scum lines—hovering, ghosting, then reappearing. We slowed the boat, watched, and planned the shot.
• Stealth and patience win: no clanks, no splashes, and don’t rush the cast. If a fish ghosts, rest it—it’ll often return to the feed.
• Line management that matters: strip off enough line before your first cast so you’re not coming up short and educating fish.
• Calm execution: breathe, relax, and wait for the eat—then set. Think marksman: exhale before the trigger.
• Flies and behavior: summer fish may sip small dries or smash hoppers; watch caddis and sulfur activity to decide whether to drift, skate, or skitter.
• Salt notes: redfish often tolerate a closer shot; in peak heat we still default to stealth—and good glasses.
• Final checks before the shot: tie on your best bug for the moment, inspect knots and tippet, and have the line laid out so you can reach‑cast and mend as needed.
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We’re also kicking off a giveaway: one listener will win a TFO fly rod of their choice via a gift certificate—drawing from our newsletter list. To enter, subscribe using the link in these show notes or at SoutheasternFly.com. Thanks to Peter Jordan and TFO for making this possible.

Listen in, then go fish—and if this episode helps you spot (and stick) a few more this summer, we’d love a follow and a positive review. See you on the water.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

North Alabama’s smallmouth waters are legendary, and in this episode, we get the locals’ guide to making the most of them. We sit down with Captain Tony Cox, a lifelong Tennessee River angler and guide, to explore the unique mix of lakes, tailraces, and creeks that define the Shoals.

Tony breaks down his favorite approaches for each water type, why heavy tackle matters here, and how to adapt when flows or weather change your plans. From sight-casting in clear creeks to battling big fish below TVA dams, you’ll get practical tips and a feel for the area’s fishing culture, including a few can’t-miss barbecue joints and local music lore.

Whether you’re planning a trip or just want to up your smallmouth game, this episode is packed with local wisdom and plenty of stories from the water. Listen in, share with a fishing partner, and don’t forget to sign up for the Southeastern Fly newsletter for more.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA