In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with John Leraas, the owner of Tailwaters Fly Company, the newest fly shop in East Tennessee. Tailwaters caters to the serious fly angler and fly tier, and John shares his fly fishing journey, the allure of East Tennessee as a fishing destination and his vision for the shop. John recounts his earliest fishing memories from the Pacific Northwest and his eventual transition to fly fishing, influenced by mentors from the Puget Sound Fly Fishers and Triangle Fly Fishers.

John discusses the challenges and rewards of opening a fly shop, emphasizing the importance of community and the unique offerings of Tailwaters, including a vast selection of fly tying materials and niche products. He highlights the rich ecosystem of guides and fly fishing enthusiasts in the region, as well as the diverse fishing opportunities available in East Tennessee, from wading for big brown trout to striper fishing in Boone Lake.

The episode also touches on the impact of Hurricane Helene on the local fishing community and encourages listeners to support the region by visiting and booking guide trips. Marvin and John discuss the future plans for Tailwaters, including the development of an online store and potential events and instructional content.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

09:50 Moving to East Tennessee

14:18 Opening the Fly Shop

16:50 Navigating Challenges After Helene

22:48 Creating the Shop's Atmosphere

31:09 Overview of Local Fisheries

36:46 Shop Location and Hours

In this captivating episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash welcomes Austin Conrad, co-owner of Virginia Trophy Guides, to explore the vibrant world of Virginia smallmouth and musky fishing. Austin shares his journey into fly fishing, recounting early memories with his grandfather and the pivotal moments that led him to the "dark side" of fly fishing as an adult. Listeners are treated to the legendary tale of Skippy Britches and Austin's insights into the rich fishing culture of the Mid-Atlantic region.

The conversation delves into the nuances of guiding, with Austin reflecting on the mentors who shaped his path, including George Costa and Josh Laferty. He emphasizes the importance of a service-oriented approach to guiding, aiming to provide a memorable and educational experience for clients, regardless of conditions. Austin shares his thoughts on what it takes to be a successful guide, highlighting the balance between fishing hard and ensuring clients leave with newfound skills and knowledge.

Austin also addresses the challenges posed by increasing fishing pressure and the role of technology in modern fishing practices. He advocates for safe handling practices and responsible fishing to preserve the fisheries for future generations. The discussion touches on the unique year-round opportunities offered by Virginia Trophy Guides, from musky fishing in the winter to the exhilarating topwater smallmouth action in the warmer months.

Listeners are invited to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Virginia and experience the thrill of fishing with Virginia Trophy Guides. Austin's passion for the region and commitment to sustainable fishing practices shine through, making this episode a must-listen for fishing enthusiasts.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

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Helpful Episode Chapters

0:00:00 Introduction

0:03:37 Early Fishing Memories

0:11:15 The Guide Bug

0:13:36 Starting Virginia Trophy Guides

0:18:34 Secrets to Being a Good Guide

0:25:00 Misconceptions About Guiding

0:35:39 The Guide Season Overview

0:50:56 Smallmouth Bass: The Underrated Fighter

0:52:58 Transitioning to Musky Fishing

0:57:05 Navigating Summer Heat

0:59:33 The Allure of Topwater Fishing

1:04:15 The Importance of Safe Fish Handling

1:17:58 The Pressure on Our Fisheries

1:25:56 Advocating for Sustainable Fishing Practices

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash welcomes back artist Derek DeYoung, who shares his latest passion for wildlife photography and details about his new gallery in Livingston, Montana. Derek discusses the challenges and rewards of capturing wildlife through the lens, highlighting his focus on owls and bears. He reflects on the technical learning curve and the substantial investment required to achieve professional-level results.

Listeners gain insight into Derek's artistic journey, from his established career in painting to his burgeoning interest in photography. Derek candidly talks about the patience and dedication needed to capture the perfect shot, drawing parallels between his painting and photography processes. He also shares stories of his fishing adventures, including a memorable trip to Alaska and his plans to explore Patagonia.

The conversation delves into Derek's transition back to Montana, where he has opened a gallery that blends fine art with a welcoming atmosphere. Derek emphasizes the importance of creating an inviting space where visitors can enjoy art without pressure to purchase, aiming to foster a genuine connection with his audience.

As the episode wraps up, Marvin and Derek discuss future projects and collaborations, with Derek hinting at upcoming shows and events at the gallery. Listeners are encouraged to follow Derek's artistic endeavors and explore his latest works both in painting and photography.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Listen to Our First Interview with Derek

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:02 Derek's Wildlife Photography Journey

09:10 Blending Painting and Photography

14:25 The Patience of Wildlife Photography

19:19 Equipment Recommendations

26:57 Fishing Adventures

33:00 Moving Back to Montana

38:04 Building the Gallery

43:25 Grand Opening Plans

49:11 Future Gallery Events

56:29 Following Derek's Adventures

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash is joined by renowned fly tying expert Tim Flagler. While many know Tim for his popular tying videos and appearances at fly fishing shows, few are aware of his extensive involvement in hosting fly fishing travel around the globe. Marvin and Tim dive into the intricacies of destination travel, sharing valuable insights and humorous anecdotes from Tim's journeys.

Tim reflects on his earliest fishing memories with his grandmother at the Jersey Shore and his transition to fly fishing during his college years at St. Lawrence University. He credits mentors like Dr. Green and Les Shannon for shaping his fly fishing and tying journey. The conversation also covers Tim's passion for fly tying, his obsession with new materials and his experiences in video production, highlighting his favorite tools and techniques.

The episode explores Tim's hosted trips, emphasizing the importance of physical ability, cultural openness and group dynamics when selecting the right trip. Tim shares stories from his travels to Patagonia, Montana and beyond, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work involved in making each trip a success. He also provides tips for potential travelers, including the significance of travel insurance and a valid passport.

Listeners are encouraged to follow Tim's adventures and stay updated on his latest projects, including new videos and appearances at upcoming fly fishing shows. Tight lines, everyone!

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Check Out Our Interview with Gustavo Hiebaum from SET Fly Fishing

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:44 Tim's Early Fishing Memories

07:38 Discovering Fly Fishing

13:45 New Materials for Tying

20:09 The Hosted Travel Experience

23:41 Working with Outfitters

25:09 Choosing the Right Trip

30:17 Maximizing Trip Compatibility

33:12 Non-Angler Options

38:22 Adventures in Argentina

43:30 Unique Montana Experiences

45:32 The Allure of Spruce Creek

48:31 Travel Nightmares

In this engaging episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Chase Smith, the creative mind behind the innovative Spiral Spook. Together, they explore Chase's design philosophy, the evolution of his signature pattern and the challenges of scaling a fly tying business. Chase shares insights into his journey from conventional angling to fly fishing, highlighting the influence of his Texas roots and his passion for predator species like bass and redfish.

Chase delves into the intricacies of fly design, discussing the importance of materials and the unique challenges of creating flies that mimic conventional lures. He emphasizes the value of creativity and adaptability in fly tying, offering tips for fellow tiers on how to enhance their craft. Listeners will also learn about Chase's upcoming projects, including collaborations with Montana Fly Company and The Chocklett Factory.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a talented fly designer and gain insights into fly tying innovation. Tight lines!

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

06:54 Influences in Fly Design

11:25 Scaling Up Production Tying

20:44 Spiral Spook Development

24:46 Design Philosophy and Inspiration

27:39 Tips for Aspiring Fly Tiers

29:43 Upcoming Projects

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Pennsylvania guide Frank Landis to delve into the art of night fishing for predator trout. They explore all aspects of this thrilling pursuit, from scouting water and selecting the right gear to choosing flies and perfecting presentation techniques. Frank shares his insights on the unique challenges and rewards of fishing under the cover of darkness, offering listeners a treasure trove of practical advice and fascinating anecdotes.

Marvin and Frank also discuss the importance of mentorship in fly fishing, with Frank highlighting the influence of his father and other notable figures in his angling journey. They touch on the distinctive fly fishing culture in Pennsylvania and the camaraderie among local guides.

Listeners will gain valuable tips on everything from the best rod and reel setups to the nuances of fly selection and presentation at night. Frank emphasizes the importance of patience, persistence and experimentation, encouraging anglers to embrace the unique sensory experience of night fishing and to be mindful of their surroundings and local landowners.

Don't miss this episode packed with expert advice, local insights and a deep dive into the exciting world of night fishing for predator trout.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

07:56 The Journey to Becoming a Guide

13:01 Discovering Night Fishing

17:43 Differences in Night Fishing Techniques

23:26 Gear Essentials for Night Fishing

35:33 Selecting the Right Flies

48:36 Strategies for Attacking the Water

55:36 Common Mistakes Made by Newbies

58:25 Respecting Landowners and Safety at Night

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash welcomes back the multi-talented Brian Hester, an artist, inventor and, now, author. Brian shares updates on his latest artistic endeavors, collaborations with Jam Up Apparel and MothBear and his exciting new book, "She Talks to Fish." The conversation covers Brian's journey from the easel to industrial design, including his innovative use of tactile materials and magnets in his projects.

Brian discusses his partnership with Jam Up Apparel, highlighting how his unique fish skin designs have been successfully translated into stylish and functional hoodies. He also delves into his collaboration with MothBear, where his inventive magnetic fly box and other gear have been developed to enhance the fly fishing experience.

The episode takes a deeper dive into Brian's novel, "She Talks to Fish," which tells the inspiring story of Maya Jones, a young African American woman breaking barriers in the fly fishing world. Brian explains the genesis of the project, the extensive research and collaboration with his co-author cousin and the challenges of writing from a perspective different from his own. He also shares the exciting news of actress Angie Harmon's endorsement and involvement in the potential film adaptation of the book.

Listeners will find this episode packed with creativity, innovation and inspiration, as Brian Hester's passion for art, invention and storytelling shines through.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Grab a Copy of "She Talks to Fish"

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:52 Innovative Apparel for Anglers

07:49 Tinkering and Inventing

16:11 The Genesis of "She Talks to Fish"

24:49 Writing with Authenticity

31:02 The Writing Process Unveiled

35:19 From Script to Screen

38:54 Embracing Risk and Opportunity

40:24 Book Release and Events

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with the multi-talented Greg Senyo—fly designer, author, outfitter and all-around fishy dude. From his early fishing memories in Girard, Pennsylvania, to building his brand, Schultz Outfitters and Montana Fly Company, Greg shares a candid look at his journey. They also discuss his latest endeavor, the Pack Mule 300, and Greg's unfiltered opinions on the fly fishing industry.

Greg reminisces about his early mentors and the traditional trout opener in Pennsylvania, sharing how these experiences shaped his passion for fly fishing. He talks about his transition to fly fishing, inspired by his best friend, and how he bought his first fly rod at a local buyer's fair. Greg also highlights the influential figures in his life, like Clyde Murray, who helped elevate his fly tying skills.

The conversation shifts to Greg's extensive career in the industry, from guiding and outfitting to developing signature flies and materials. He discusses his work with major companies like Orvis and Hareline, and how these opportunities helped him build his reputation. Greg also opens up about his decision to sell Steelhead Alley Outfitters and the importance of staying true to his character.

Marvin and Greg dive into the challenges and pet peeves of the fly fishing industry, touching on topics like social media, industry trends and the devaluation of talent. Greg shares his thoughts on the direction of the industry and the importance of maintaining authenticity.

Greg also talks about life changes, including his shift in priorities after starting a family and overcoming serious health issues. He shares the motivation behind his Pack Mule 300 charity hike, which raised funds for his sons' high school lacrosse teams, and the importance of setting an example for his kids through hard work and determination.

Don't miss this episode packed with honest insights, industry wisdom and a touch of humor as Marvin and Greg explore the highs and lows of a life in fly fishing.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Donate and Support Pack Mule 300

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction

00:01:30 Early Fishing Experiences and Mentors

00:07:00 Down the Industry Slippery Slope

00:09:15 The Birth of Steelhead Alley Outfitters

00:11:30 Industry Pet Peeves

00:14:30 Proudest Industry Contributions

00:16:30 Stepping Back from the Industry

00:29:40 Meeting Mike Schultz and All Things SO

00:36:50 Developing Fly Tying Materials

00:39:15 Montana Fly Company

00:46:00 Check Engine Light Moments

00:49:30 The PackMule 300

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash chats with Steve Maldonado, also known by his aliases Skeeter or Jonny Lunchmeat. They delve into Steve’s journey from his sparkle boat days to his immersion in fly fishing, with a special focus on tying predator flies. Steve shares his earliest fishing memories, his competitive bass fishing experiences and how a move to Colorado shifted his focus to fly fishing. He also discusses the influential mentors who have shaped his fly tying skills and his passion for chasing tarpon and big browns on the fly.

Steve provides valuable insights into his fly design philosophy, particularly for predator flies, and offers practical tips for aspiring fly designers. He emphasizes the importance of thread pressure, consistent tying techniques and the significance of the retrieve in effectively fishing a fly. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fly fishing, this episode is packed with useful advice and engaging stories from Steve's fishing adventures.

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

All Things Social Media

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:17 The Sparkle Boat Days

06:25 The Fly Fishing Itch

09:03 Mentorship in Fly Fishing

13:47 Favorite Rivers in Colorado

16:33 Tying Techniques and Tools

19:47 Predator Fly Design Philosophy

25:35 The Jungle Junkie

31:21 Umpqua Selection Process

33:14 Tips for Aspiring Fly Designers

36:23 Tips for Handling Hair

39:16 Experimenting with New Materials

43:11 Upcoming Travel and Hosted Trips

48:59 Custom Fly Orders

Join host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly for an enriching conversation with returning guest and author Steve Ramirez. In this episode, Steve delves into the profound lessons he's learned from the river and provides an update on his latest book, "Casting Homeward." Marvin and Steve discuss the importance of adapting to life's unpredictable nature, the value of curiosity and learning and the deep connections we form with nature and each other through fly fishing.

Steve shares insights from his successful "Casting" book series, reflecting on the journey from "Casting Forward" to the upcoming release of "Casting Homeward." He also hints at his future projects and the philosophical and practical lessons embedded in his writing.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom and inspiration, highlighting the therapeutic and transformative power of fly fishing. Tight lines!

Pre-Order Casting Homeward

Pre-Order a Signed Copy of Casting Homeward

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Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

6:37 Lessons from Fly Fishing and Life

14:29 The Journey Interview

16:57 The Serendipity of Fly Fishing

22:04 The Importance of Curiosity

24:01 Gaining Perspective from Nature

29:06 Concerns about Disconnect from Nature

35:35 Connecting with All Living Beings

38:52 Technology as a Tool

55:52 Never Stop Learning