The Fly Culture Podcast

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Episode 353 - Martin Smith on Tackling Water Companies and Pollution

In this episode, Martin Smith shares his extensive experience in fishing, environmental activism, and legal battles to protect waterways. 

I am hoping his insights inspire listeners to take action at the local level to improve river health and fish populations.

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Episode 352 - Dan Osmond - Peace, Trout and Understanding

In this episode, I welcome back Dan Osmond to discuss various aspects of fishing, including the impact of climate change on fish populations, the importance of alternative fishing species, and Dan's work with the West Country Rivers Trust. 

We explore the resilience of trout, the effects of pollution on rivers, and the engagement of younger generations in angling. 

Dan also shares insights into his journey of writing a book about his fishing experiences and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Dan discusses the interplay between environmental challenges and the beauty found within them, reflecting on his writing process and the emotional journey of creating his book. 

He shares insights on the discipline of writing, the importance of finding one's voice, and the therapeutic nature of expressing thoughts through writing. Dan reads a powerful excerpt from his book, emphasising the urgency of ecological advocacy and the need for action against climate change. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!

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 Episode 351 - Tankred Rinder from Deep House to Sunk Lines

In this episode, Tankred Rinder shares his journey from music and journalism to becoming a passionate fly fisherman and publisher in Germany. 

He discusses his love for still water fly fishing, the process of translating and publishing fly fishing books, and the unique fishing culture in Germany.

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Episode 350 - Riverside Ramblings

Join me, my dog and good friend Warren as we see off the last day of my trout season on my home river, the Taw, here in Devon.

We fish some bamboo, smoke a cigar and pipe and have a good lunch by the river.

It wasn't the easiest day but worked out OK in the end but you'll get a feel for the thought process and the fun we have while there.

As ever, this is a podcast that is more about the fishing than catching the fish.

Hope you enjoy!

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Episode 349 - Fly Casting with Will Shaw and Mark Surtees

I am pleased to be rejoined by Will and Mark in the 3rd part of the trilogy of interviews regarding fly casting, the teaching process and of course, fishing too.

We hear about their recent fishing trips and then dive into fly casting.

In this discussion, we talk about practice routines and making sure it is mixed up.

We also look at why block-booking lessons makes a lot of sense along with a whole lot more.

As with the previous interviews, there is a lot on valuable information that anglers and instructors whether new or experienced can gain from listening.

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I sit down on a Yeti cooler with Fred Campbell founder of Hooké, a brand that has made amazing fishing and conservation films along side an ever growing clothing range.

I learn about his fishing career, his thoughts on conservation and the shift in focus both he and I have noticed in how our pastime is moving away from the hero shot to the bigger picture of fishing.

He tells me about how he formed Hooké and how it has grown without ever losing it's focus on conservation.

Fred's story is an inspiring one that, despite it's success, he remains humble and modest.

People like Fred are helping shape how fly fishing is being viewed from the outside and we're lucky to have him portray it in such a positive way.

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Episode 348 - Visiting the Chatsworth Country Show

I head up to Derbyshire to first, catch a few fish and then on to the Chatsworth Country Show where I meet up with many people you'll know, get some fishing tips and advice, hear about some new pieces of tackle and books too.

I get the chance to speak with competition angler Susan Sissons who tells me about her return to the England Ladies team, how she got on and what it meant to her. It is a beautiful story.

I really enjoy these shows and the chance to catch up with some of the people who are part of our fly fishing world.

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Episode 347 - Back on my home water

We've had some cooler weather and rain too.

I've been watching water heights and make the decision to head back to my home water for the first time in what feels like a long time.

I have my dog. Montana, with me and no other plans other than to enjoy this moment.

I didn't plan to record anything but am pleased I did as I get the chance to share the time with you in what turns out to be more than just a few hours fishing.

As ever, I just speak into the mic and talk from the heart. 

I hope you enjoy the time with me.

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Episode 346 - Richard Ticehurst - Casting, Fishing and Innovating

I catch up with Richard to learn about his fishing career that started by learning to tie flies before heading to the river to catch fish with them with his father in Scotland.

I also hear about him packing a fly rod and heading to the coast over 30 years ago.

After reading an advert in a certain magazine I know well, Richard ended up in Devon working with John and Simon Gawesworth at their fishing school.

This is a wonderful story I'm sure you'll enjoy hearing.

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Episode 345 - Big Trout and Surfboards in Finland

In this episode I head to Finland with my frinds Paul Procter and Chris Rownes.

We fish a series of rivers that connect lakes where baitfish known as bleak head out of the lakes where sizeable brown trout are waiting.

Aside from this, there are also some amazing caddis hatches where big, brown trout rise to them.

Join us for a few days fishing and hear what happens as 3 friends armed with fly rods tackle these amazing trout.