This fly fishing podcast episode delivers a timely early spring conditions update from Central Pennsylvania, featuring George Costa, Shop Manager at TCO Fly Shop in State College. George reports on improving but variable conditions across the region's premier trout waters — Spring Creek, Penns Creek, Fishing Creek and the Juniata — as the season teeters between winter's last grip and the first genuine hatch activity of the year. Water levels are running near average for the time of year, on the higher side as systems flush through, with clarity improving after recent runoff. Nymphing has remained consistent throughout the transition, while streamer fishing has been productive in the elevated flows. Most notably, George flags the imminent arrival of grannom caddis — expected within five to seven days at the time of recording — following scattered early caddis reports and strong blue-winged olive activity during the preceding warm spells. With temperatures forecast to climb back into the 60s and 70s, George anticipates a meaningful uptick in dry fly opportunity and encourages anglers to get their dries ready. The episode also touches on late-season steelhead fishing as an alternative option, and briefly recaps a hosted shop trip to South Andros Lodge in the Bahamas. George rounds out the report with updates on remaining spring classes and upcoming sales at TCO Fly Shop.

Key Takeaways

1. Why high, off-color water in early spring shifts the most productive technique toward streamers rather than dries or nymphs.
2. When to expect the grannom caddis hatch on Central PA freestone and spring creek systems and how warming temperatures accelerate its arrival.
3. How to read the transition from consistent nymphing conditions to the first genuine dry fly opportunities of the spring season.
4. Why late-winter and early-spring steelhead remain a viable alternative when Central PA trout streams are running high and off-color.
5. When to take advantage of end-of-season sales at fly shops to stock up on last year's gear at reduced prices before spring inventory fully arrives.

Techniques & Gear Covered

George Costa covers the three primary presentations that define early spring Central PA fishing: nymphing with standard subsurface patterns (described as "all the usual suspects"), streamer fishing in elevated and off-color water, and dry fly fishing as conditions warm and early hatches emerge. No specific fly patterns are named beyond the bug categories discussed — grannoms and other early caddis, blue-winged olives and general nymph imitations — reflecting the broad-strokes, conditions-focused nature of the fishing report format. The gear discussion is brief, with George directing anglers to TCO Fly Shop's spring inventory rollout and noting that winter merchandise will be moving to sale pricing soon. The overarching tactical theme is reading the water conditions and having the flexibility to shift between techniques as flows drop, color clears and insect activity builds.

Locations & Species

The report centers on Central Pennsylvania's most productive trout waters: Spring Creek, Penns Creek, Fishing Creek and the Juniata River, all running near seasonal averages with slightly elevated, clearing flows at the time of recording. The primary target species throughout is wild trout — the conversation is framed around the approaching dry fly season that defines Central PA fishing in late March and April. George also briefly references Erie-region steelhead as a concurrent late-winter option, with shop staff actively fishing them. A hosted trip to South Andros Lodge in the Bahamas is mentioned in passing, with bonefish and barracuda as primary species, though the Bahamas content is contextual rather than instructional.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

What are current stream conditions on Central PA trout waters in early spring?

At the time of recording, Spring Creek, Penns Creek, Fishing Creek and the Juniata were running on the higher side of average following a series of weather systems, with flows dropping and clarity improving. George Costa describes conditions as "okay-ish," noting that both the Penns and Juniata systems got very high before beginning to drop and clear up — typical behavior for Central PA freestones in late March.

When can Central PA anglers expect the grannom caddis hatch to begin?

George forecasts grannom activity within five to seven days of the recording, citing scattered early caddis reports and strong BWO hatches during the preceding warm spells as leading indicators. He emphasizes that a forecasted return to 60–70°F temperatures over the upcoming weekend should trigger meaningful hatch activity across the region's spring creeks and freestones.

How should fly anglers approach Central PA streams when flows are elevated and off-color?

Costa notes that fish are actively moving in the high water and several anglers have already had strong streamer days in the elevated flows. He recommends leaning on streamers when water is up and colored, while nymphing with reliable subsurface patterns remains consistent regardless of conditions — and advises anglers to have dry fly rigs ready for when flows drop and the first consistent hatch windows open.

Is steelhead fishing worth pursuing as a late-winter option in the region?

George confirms that late-winter and early-spring Erie steelhead remain a viable option, noting that water levels looked favorable at the time of recording and that TCO staff members were actively fishing them. He characterizes it as a solid alternative for anglers who want active fishing while waiting for Central PA trout conditions to fully develop.

Related Content

S8, Ep 11 – Snow Melt and Spring Awakening: Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa

S8, Ep 4 – Chilly Waters and Crafty Flies: A New Year Fishing Report with George Costa

S7, Ep 36 – Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop

S6, Ep 30 – Central Pennsylvania Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop

Connect with Our Guest

Follow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In this Casting Angles episode of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash and Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown close out the fly fishing show season with a candid debrief on what happens after students leave the classroom. Recorded immediately after both Marvin and Mac wrapped up their teaching schedules at the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show — the final show of the year — the conversation digs into one of the most practical and underexplored questions in fly fishing education: how do you structure a class so students can actually keep improving on their own once they leave? Mac Brown, owner of Mac Brown Fly Fish in Bryson City, North Carolina, and a Master Casting Instructor through Fly Fishers International, draws on decades of coaching experience and current sports physiology research to frame the core tension between teaching to immediate performance versus teaching for long-term self-correction. The episode explores how video on smartphones has transformed what's possible in a single class session, why saturation happens faster than most instructors expect during hands-on practice, and how foundational mechanics — particularly the elbow drop and correct arm path — give students a reliable framework to diagnose and fix their own casting long after the lesson ends. Mac also previews his spring guide school season starting in late March in Bryson City, making this a timely listen for anyone considering casting instruction before the season ramps up.

Key Takeaways

1. How to structure a casting class so students leave with both foundational understanding and the self-correction tools to keep improving independently.
2. Why teaching entirely to immediate performance — without covering the underlying mechanics — leaves students unable to troubleshoot when their casting breaks down.
3. How using smartphone video during a lesson gives students a concrete reference point so they know exactly what to look for when they practice at home.
4. Why 15 to 20 minute practice sessions, repeated several times a week, produce better results than long, unfocused practice blocks that lead to early saturation.
5. How the elbow drop and correct arm path mechanics — grounded in 160-plus years of casting science — deliver a measurable, immediately felt difference in loop speed and efficiency that converts skeptical students on the spot.

Techniques & Gear Covered

This episode is focused entirely on casting instruction methodology rather than on-water tactics, so there are no fly patterns or gear brands discussed. The core technical concept Mac returns to throughout the conversation is the relationship between arm path and loop quality: when casters move the rod hand horizontally straight forward — essentially throwing like a shot put — they generate far less line speed than when the elbow drops and the rod tip travels on a proper path. Mac uses a practical field demonstration to make this concrete, counting out a slow, soft cast aloud (1001-1002-1003-1004) and contrasting it with the sub-half-second delivery produced by the elbow drop, then asking students which loop they'd want in a 30-knot Belize or Montana wind. Beyond the mechanics, Marvin and Mac discuss a drill-based curriculum structure — roughly six drills covering power, pause and path — that students can work through in short, focused practice sessions using their phone cameras for feedback. The broader instructional philosophy draws on contemporary coaching literature, including Nick Winkelman's language-of-coaching framework, and aligns with what Mac and Gary Borger have implemented in their all-day casting classes.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

Why shouldn't a casting instructor just focus on getting students casting as quickly as possible?

Mac Brown explains that while pure performance-based teaching can produce fast results in a demo context — like getting a kid casting 40 feet with tight loops in two minutes — it leaves students with no conceptual framework to fall back on when their casting starts to deteriorate. Without understanding the underlying mechanics, they have no idea what to change, and they end up needing to return for the same lesson repeatedly rather than progressing independently.

How do you use smartphone video effectively in a casting lesson?

Mac Brown and Marvin both emphasize that students should use their phones to film the instructor demonstrating the correct movement. The key is that students leave the class knowing exactly what they're looking for — and having footage of it. Without that reference, independent practice becomes guesswork.

How much hands-on practice time should be in a casting class versus instruction?

Marvin notes that students reach a saturation point with hands-on practice faster than most instructors expect. He describes his introductory class as roughly 75% classroom and 25% hands-on. The goal is not to have students perfect every skill in class, but to build enough intellectual understanding that they can drill efficiently on their own — ideally in short 15 to 20 minute practice sessions several times a week rather than long, unfocused blocks.

What is the elbow drop, and why does it matter so much?

The elbow drop is a fundamental casting mechanic in which the caster's elbow descends during the stroke rather than tracking horizontally straight ahead. Mac demonstrates its impact by comparing two identical 40-foot casts: one made with a horizontal hand path, which takes several seconds for the line to turn over, and one made with the elbow drop, which delivers the line in under half a second. He uses the contrast as both a diagnostic tool and a conversion moment — once students feel the speed differential for themselves, they are immediately motivated to change their mechanics.

When does Mac Brown's spring guide school season start in Bryson City?

Mac's first guide school of the spring is scheduled for March 25, with additional two-day and three-day schools running through April and beyond. He also teaches private casting lessons and guides as the season ramps up. The best way to reach him is through macbrownflyfish.com, where his full schedule and contact information are listed.

Related Content

S7, Ep 16 – Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 20 – Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S7, Ep 28 – Warming Waters and Active Fish: A Spring Fishing Update with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 41 – Navigating High Water: Strategies for Success with Mac Brown

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Episode Overview

In this Casting Angles episode of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash and Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown close out the fly fishing show season with a candid debrief on what happens after students leave the classroom. Recorded immediately after both Marvin and Mac wrapped up their teaching schedules at the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show — the final show of the year — the conversation digs into one of the most practical and underexplored questions in fly fishing education: how do you structure a class so students can actually keep improving on their own once they leave? Mac Brown, owner of Mac Brown Fly Fish in Bryson City, North Carolina, and a Master Casting Instructor through Fly Fishers International, draws on decades of coaching experience and current sports physiology research to frame the core tension between teaching to immediate performance versus teaching for long-term self-correction. The episode explores how video on smartphones has transformed what's possible in a single class session, why saturation happens faster than most instructors expect during hands-on practice, and how foundational mechanics — particularly the elbow drop and correct arm path — give students a reliable framework to diagnose and fix their own casting long after the lesson ends. Mac also previews his spring guide school season starting in late March in Bryson City, making this a timely listen for anyone considering casting instruction before the season ramps up.

Key Takeaways

1. How to structure a casting class so students leave with both foundational understanding and the self-correction tools to keep improving independently.
2. Why teaching entirely to immediate performance — without covering the underlying mechanics — leaves students unable to troubleshoot when their casting breaks down.
3. How using smartphone video during a lesson gives students a concrete reference point so they know exactly what to look for when they practice at home.
4. Why 15 to 20 minute practice sessions, repeated several times a week, produce better results than long, unfocused practice blocks that lead to early saturation.
5. How the elbow drop and correct arm path mechanics — grounded in 160-plus years of casting science — deliver a measurable, immediately felt difference in loop speed and efficiency that converts skeptical students on the spot.

Techniques & Gear Covered

This episode is focused entirely on casting instruction methodology rather than on-water tactics, so there are no fly patterns or gear brands discussed. The core technical concept Mac returns to throughout the conversation is the relationship between arm path and loop quality: when casters move the rod hand horizontally straight forward — essentially throwing like a shot put — they generate far less line speed than when the elbow drops and the rod tip travels on a proper path. Mac uses a practical field demonstration to make this concrete, counting out a slow, soft cast aloud (1001-1002-1003-1004) and contrasting it with the sub-half-second delivery produced by the elbow drop, then asking students which loop they'd want in a 30-knot Belize or Montana wind. Beyond the mechanics, Marvin and Mac discuss a drill-based curriculum structure — roughly six drills covering power, pause and path — that students can work through in short, focused practice sessions using their phone cameras for feedback. The broader instructional philosophy draws on contemporary coaching literature, including Nick Winkelman's language-of-coaching framework, and aligns with what Mac and Gary Borger have implemented in their all-day casting classes.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

Why shouldn't a casting instructor just focus on getting students casting as quickly as possible?

Mac Brown explains that while pure performance-based teaching can produce fast results in a demo context — like getting a kid casting 40 feet with tight loops in two minutes — it leaves students with no conceptual framework to fall back on when their casting starts to deteriorate. Without understanding the underlying mechanics, they have no idea what to change, and they end up needing to return for the same lesson repeatedly rather than progressing independently.

How do you use smartphone video effectively in a casting lesson?

Mac Brown and Marvin both emphasize that students should use their phones to film the instructor demonstrating the correct movement. The key is that students leave the class knowing exactly what they're looking for — and having footage of it. Without that reference, independent practice becomes guesswork.

How much hands-on practice time should be in a casting class versus instruction?

Marvin notes that students reach a saturation point with hands-on practice faster than most instructors expect. He describes his introductory class as roughly 75% classroom and 25% hands-on. The goal is not to have students perfect every skill in class, but to build enough intellectual understanding that they can drill efficiently on their own — ideally in short 15 to 20 minute practice sessions several times a week rather than long, unfocused blocks.

What is the elbow drop, and why does it matter so much?

The elbow drop is a fundamental casting mechanic in which the caster's elbow descends during the stroke rather than tracking horizontally straight ahead. Mac demonstrates its impact by comparing two identical 40-foot casts: one made with a horizontal hand path, which takes several seconds for the line to turn over, and one made with the elbow drop, which delivers the line in under half a second. He uses the contrast as both a diagnostic tool and a conversion moment — once students feel the speed differential for themselves, they are immediately motivated to change their mechanics.

When does Mac Brown's spring guide school season start in Bryson City?

Mac's first guide school of the spring is scheduled for March 25, with additional two-day and three-day schools running through April and beyond. He also teaches private casting lessons and guides as the season ramps up. The best way to reach him is through macbrownflyfish.com, where his full schedule and contact information are listed.

Related Content

S7, Ep 16 – Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 20 – Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S7, Ep 28 – Warming Waters and Active Fish: A Spring Fishing Update with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 41 – Navigating High Water: Strategies for Success with Mac Brown

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

The Articulate Fly's Central PA Fishing Report returns with George Costa, manager at TCO Fly Shop in State College, Pennsylvania, delivering a timely early spring conditions update for central Pennsylvania's trout waters. This episode captures the region at a pivotal seasonal inflection point: after a long cold winter, rising water temperatures and the first notable olive hatches signal the transition from winter holding patterns to active spring feeding. Spring Creek, Penns Creek and the surrounding Centre County limestone streams are the focal waters, with wild trout as the primary target. George covers the full tactical picture for this particular window — the simultaneous emergence of blue-winged olives (sizes 18–22) and little black stoneflies, streamers in off-color rising water and the nymph game poised to accelerate through the coming months. Anglers will also find timely context on the grannom hatch timeline (late March into early April) and conditions outlook as a warming trend arrives on the heels of meaningful rainfall. George also previews upcoming classes at TCO and his impending Andros bonefish trip, providing a glimpse of the shop's spring momentum.

Key Takeaways

1. How to read rising, off-color spring water conditions in Central PA as a trigger for switching to streamers in search of larger fish.
2. Why small olives (sizes 18–22) and little black stoneflies (sizes 14–16) are the first dry fly opportunities worth targeting as winter transitions to spring.
3. When to expect the grannom hatch on Central PA limestone streams — historically the last week of March into the first week of April, water and air temps permitting.
4. How to structure your spring approach around three concurrent methods: dry flies during hatch windows, nymphing in the column as nymphs begin migrating, and streamers in stained water or on overcast days.
5. Why a warming trend following a rain event is one of the best short-term conditions setups for early spring trout activity in Central PA.

Techniques & Gear Covered

George outlines three productive approaches for this early spring window. Dry fly fishing with small olives (sizes 18–22) and little black stonefly patterns (sizes 14–16) is the headline, with fish actively rising once the warmth triggers hatch activity. Nymphing gets an extended emphasis — George notes that nymphs are beginning to move around, setting up what he expects will be a productive two-month run for subsurface presentations. Streamer fishing in off-color, elevated water is flagged as the big-fish opportunity of the moment, with George specifically recommending streamers on cloudier days when visibility is reduced. No specific fly brands or rod/reel gear is discussed beyond fly pattern sizing, keeping the focus on approach and conditions reading.

Locations & Species

The episode centers on Central Pennsylvania's limestone stream corridor — Spring Creek, Penns Creek and the broader Centre County watershed around State College. These are primarily wild brown trout fisheries, and the discussion assumes year-round catch-and-release water or designated regulated sections rather than stocked water. Conditions at recording time show streams rising with slight color following recent rainfall, with a warming trend (high 60s) forecast for the following week. The grannom hatch discussion also points toward Penns Creek as a traditional anchor for the late-March/early-April caddis emergence that serves as Central PA's equivalent of the iconic Mother's Day caddis events found on other Mid-Atlantic and Southern Appalachian tailwaters.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

What dry flies should I be fishing in Central PA during early spring?

Blue-winged olives in sizes 18–22 are the primary hatch driver right now, with little black stoneflies in sizes 14–16 providing additional topwater opportunity. George recommends keeping dries accessible as hatches are actively going off and fish are beginning to rise after a long winter.

When does the grannom hatch happen on Central PA streams?

George places the traditional grannom hatch in the last week of March through the first week of April, with timing dependent on water and air temperatures. He notes this event is still roughly two and a half to three weeks out from the time of recording, but characterizes it as right around the corner.

How should I adjust tactics when Central PA streams are running high and off-color?

Rising, off-color water is prime streamer water in Central PA, especially on overcast days. George recommends targeting bigger fish with streamer presentations in those conditions rather than dry fly or nymph presentations.

How long will the nymph bite be productive this spring?

George expects strong nymphing conditions to last through the next couple of months as insects ramp up activity and fish become increasingly aggressive after winter. Nymphs are beginning to move around in the column now, making this an excellent time to commit to subsurface presentations.

Is George's Andros bonefish trip relevant to the Central PA fishing audience?

While the bonefish trip is a brief aside, it provides useful context around saltwater fly fishing planning — specifically that wind is a constant variable in the Bahamas, and experienced anglers build their casting and guide communication strategies around that assumption rather than hoping for calm days.

Related Content

S8, Ep 4 – Chilly Waters and Crafty Flies: A New Year Fishing Report with George Costa

S7, Ep 36 – Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop

S6, Ep 30 – Central Pennsylvania Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop

S6, Ep 48 – Rain or Shine: Central PA's Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop

S7, Ep 49 – Rain, Hatches and Cicadas: A Central PA Fishing Update with George Costa

Connect with Our Guest

Follow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

This fly fishing podcast episode delivers a timely late-winter transition report from Southwest Virginia, covering the critical window when musky season winds down and pre-spawn smallmouth bass fishing kicks into gear. Host Marvin Cash reconnects with guide Matt Reilly of Matt Reilly Fly Fishing — a USCG-licensed captain and specialist in smallmouth, musky and other predatory game fish in the New River system — for a frank assessment of where conditions stand and what anglers should be targeting over the next several weeks. Recent snowmelt pushed water temperatures down, but a sustained stretch of warm days (highs in the 60s and 70s with some approaching 80°F) has temperatures climbing back through the mid-to-upper 40s, signaling that pre-spawn smallmouth are beginning to stage out of their winter holding water. Matt also previews his spring striper run program, opening dates on his guiding calendar, and his expanded mountain trout program through associated guides in southwest Virginia — a fishery he argues is underutilized by visiting anglers drawn instead to the Smokies or Virginia's tailwaters. For serious anglers planning a spring trip or looking to understand how temperature history shapes fish location in early season, this report is essential listening.

Key Takeaways

1. How water temperature history — not just current readings — dictates where pre-spawn smallmouth will be holding after warm early-season spikes followed by cold snaps.
2. When to start streamer fishing for pre-spawn smallmouth: once morning temps consistently hit 50°F, a mid-column baitfish presentation becomes reliable; mid-to-upper 40s can work with slow retrieves and long pauses.
3. Why fishing smallmouth through the winter gives you a positional advantage in early spring, since you can track fish as they move from deep winter holds to staging edges.
4. How to locate early pre-spawn fish: upper ends of winter pools, lower ends and tail-outs, spreading throughout the river once temps push past 50°F.
5. When to book spring guide dates proactively rather than waiting for newsletter announcements — late-notice cancellations open dates that never get widely publicized.
6. Why the southwest Virginia mountain trout fishery is an overlooked destination for visiting fly anglers focused on the Smokies or regional tailwaters.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode is technique-focused on early pre-spawn smallmouth streamer presentations. Matt details the adjustment between cold-water (mid-40s) and warming-water (upper 40s into 50s) approaches: in colder conditions he recommends a slower mid-column retrieve with extended pauses and suspension, explicitly advising against immediately defaulting to dumbbell-eyed patterns bouncing on the bottom. Once morning temps reach 50°F, he transitions confidently to a standard baitfish-profile streamer fished mid-column. The conversation also touches briefly on the striper run, which typically runs mid-April through mid-May and requires constant monitoring given how quickly fish can move through.

Locations & Species

The primary fishery discussed is the New River in southwest Virginia, with contextual references to the broader regional mountain trout waters of the same area. Target species include pre-spawn smallmouth bass (the dominant focus), musky (wrapping up the season with a couple of remaining guide trips), striped bass (spring run, mid-April to mid-May) and wild mountain trout in the higher-elevation tributaries and streams of the Mount Rogers area. Conditions at time of recording reflect post-snowmelt recovery, with water temps north of 40°F in most stretches and some reaching the upper 40s — the threshold Matt identifies as the beginning of productive pre-spawn streamer fishing. The episode also notes the absence of any cicada brood emergences in 2026 (the only such year in the next 13), which Matt acknowledges will simplify the spring guiding calendar compared to recent years.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How do water temperatures affect pre-spawn smallmouth location on the New River?

In the mid-to-upper 40s, smallmouth are staging at the edges of their winter holding areas — look for them at the upper ends and tail-outs of winter pools. Once temps push past 50°F, fish spread throughout the river and become more actively feeding. Temperature history matters significantly: if fish have already experienced 52–53°F water during an early warm spell, they may have already moved even if a cold snap has pulled temps back down to the mid-40s.

What streamer presentation works best for pre-spawn smallmouth in cold water?

In the mid-40s, Matt favors a slow mid-column presentation with long pauses and extended suspension rather than bottom-bouncing dumbbell patterns or active retrieves. At 50°F and above, a standard baitfish-profile streamer fished mid-column is his go-to — at that temperature threshold he has enough confidence in the bite to commit fully to that style unless conditions clearly dictate otherwise.

When does the striper run typically happen in southwest and south central Virginia and how predictable is it?

Matt's striper program generally runs from mid-April through mid-May, but stripers can appear one day and be gone the next, making it a "wait and see" fishery that requires staying closely tuned to conditions. He monitors fish presence actively and adjusts guide bookings accordingly, making early contact with him the best way to position for a slot during the run.

Why is the southwest Virginia mountain trout fishery underutilized by visiting anglers?

Most visiting anglers traveling to the mid-Atlantic and Southern Appalachian region default to Tennessee's tailwaters or the Smoky Mountains, and don't end up in southwest Virginia even though the wild trout fishing there can be exceptional from late February through summer. Matt notes he's fielded consistent demand for these trips and has recently channeled that interest to associated guides who specialize in the mountain program — guides he describes as more skilled at it than himself.

How should anglers approach booking with a guide like Matt Reilly given limited availability?

Matt recommends direct outreach rather than waiting for newsletter announcements of open dates — by the time a cancellation makes it into a newsletter blast, competition for the slot is higher. Spring and summer prime-time top-water smallmouth dates tend to book first; fall dates (especially early October) are typically the last to fill and often have more flexibility.

Related Content

S8, Ep 2 – January Fishing Forecast: Weather Patterns and Musky Tips with Matt Reilly

S7, Ep 19 – Weathering the Winds: March Fishing Insights and Pre-Spawn Strategies with Matt Reilly

S7, Ep 99 – Winter's Approach: Matt Reilly's Tips for Catching Musky in Low Water

S6, Ep 33 – Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt Reilly (Pre-Spawn Smallmouth)

S7, Ep 1 – Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt Reilly

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Matt on Instagram.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the...]]>Episode Overview

This fly fishing podcast episode delivers a timely late-winter transition report from Southwest Virginia, covering the critical window when musky season winds down and pre-spawn smallmouth bass fishing kicks into gear. Host Marvin Cash reconnects with guide Matt Reilly of Matt Reilly Fly Fishing — a USCG-licensed captain and specialist in smallmouth, musky and other predatory game fish in the New River system — for a frank assessment of where conditions stand and what anglers should be targeting over the next several weeks. Recent snowmelt pushed water temperatures down, but a sustained stretch of warm days (highs in the 60s and 70s with some approaching 80°F) has temperatures climbing back through the mid-to-upper 40s, signaling that pre-spawn smallmouth are beginning to stage out of their winter holding water. Matt also previews his spring striper run program, opening dates on his guiding calendar, and his expanded mountain trout program through associated guides in southwest Virginia — a fishery he argues is underutilized by visiting anglers drawn instead to the Smokies or Virginia's tailwaters. For serious anglers planning a spring trip or looking to understand how temperature history shapes fish location in early season, this report is essential listening.

Key Takeaways

1. How water temperature history — not just current readings — dictates where pre-spawn smallmouth will be holding after warm early-season spikes followed by cold snaps.
2. When to start streamer fishing for pre-spawn smallmouth: once morning temps consistently hit 50°F, a mid-column baitfish presentation becomes reliable; mid-to-upper 40s can work with slow retrieves and long pauses.
3. Why fishing smallmouth through the winter gives you a positional advantage in early spring, since you can track fish as they move from deep winter holds to staging edges.
4. How to locate early pre-spawn fish: upper ends of winter pools, lower ends and tail-outs, spreading throughout the river once temps push past 50°F.
5. When to book spring guide dates proactively rather than waiting for newsletter announcements — late-notice cancellations open dates that never get widely publicized.
6. Why the southwest Virginia mountain trout fishery is an overlooked destination for visiting fly anglers focused on the Smokies or regional tailwaters.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode is technique-focused on early pre-spawn smallmouth streamer presentations. Matt details the adjustment between cold-water (mid-40s) and warming-water (upper 40s into 50s) approaches: in colder conditions he recommends a slower mid-column retrieve with extended pauses and suspension, explicitly advising against immediately defaulting to dumbbell-eyed patterns bouncing on the bottom. Once morning temps reach 50°F, he transitions confidently to a standard baitfish-profile streamer fished mid-column. The conversation also touches briefly on the striper run, which typically runs mid-April through mid-May and requires constant monitoring given how quickly fish can move through.

Locations & Species

The primary fishery discussed is the New River in southwest Virginia, with contextual references to the broader regional mountain trout waters of the same area. Target species include pre-spawn smallmouth bass (the dominant focus), musky (wrapping up the season with a couple of remaining guide trips), striped bass (spring run, mid-April to mid-May) and wild mountain trout in the higher-elevation tributaries and streams of the Mount Rogers area. Conditions at time of recording reflect post-snowmelt recovery, with water temps north of 40°F in most stretches and some reaching the upper 40s — the threshold Matt identifies as the beginning of productive pre-spawn streamer fishing. The episode also notes the absence of any cicada brood emergences in 2026 (the only such year in the next 13), which Matt acknowledges will simplify the spring guiding calendar compared to recent years.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How do water temperatures affect pre-spawn smallmouth location on the New River?

In the mid-to-upper 40s, smallmouth are staging at the edges of their winter holding areas — look for them at the upper ends and tail-outs of winter pools. Once temps push past 50°F, fish spread throughout the river and become more actively feeding. Temperature history matters significantly: if fish have already experienced 52–53°F water during an early warm spell, they may have already moved even if a cold snap has pulled temps back down to the mid-40s.

What streamer presentation works best for pre-spawn smallmouth in cold water?

In the mid-40s, Matt favors a slow mid-column presentation with long pauses and extended suspension rather than bottom-bouncing dumbbell patterns or active retrieves. At 50°F and above, a standard baitfish-profile streamer fished mid-column is his go-to — at that temperature threshold he has enough confidence in the bite to commit fully to that style unless conditions clearly dictate otherwise.

When does the striper run typically happen in southwest and south central Virginia and how predictable is it?

Matt's striper program generally runs from mid-April through mid-May, but stripers can appear one day and be gone the next, making it a "wait and see" fishery that requires staying closely tuned to conditions. He monitors fish presence actively and adjusts guide bookings accordingly, making early contact with him the best way to position for a slot during the run.

Why is the southwest Virginia mountain trout fishery underutilized by visiting anglers?

Most visiting anglers traveling to the mid-Atlantic and Southern Appalachian region default to Tennessee's tailwaters or the Smoky Mountains, and don't end up in southwest Virginia even though the wild trout fishing there can be exceptional from late February through summer. Matt notes he's fielded consistent demand for these trips and has recently channeled that interest to associated guides who specialize in the mountain program — guides he describes as more skilled at it than himself.

How should anglers approach booking with a guide like Matt Reilly given limited availability?

Matt recommends direct outreach rather than waiting for newsletter announcements of open dates — by the time a cancellation makes it into a newsletter blast, competition for the slot is higher. Spring and summer prime-time top-water smallmouth dates tend to book first; fall dates (especially early October) are typically the last to fill and often have more flexibility.

Related Content

S8, Ep 2 – January Fishing Forecast: Weather Patterns and Musky Tips with Matt Reilly

S7, Ep 19 – Weathering the Winds: March Fishing Insights and Pre-Spawn Strategies with Matt Reilly

S7, Ep 99 – Winter's Approach: Matt Reilly's Tips for Catching Musky in Low Water

S6, Ep 33 – Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt Reilly (Pre-Spawn Smallmouth)

S7, Ep 1 – Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt Reilly

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Matt on Instagram.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown for another installment of Casting Angles — a wide-ranging conversation on the philosophy of continuous improvement in fly fishing and fly casting. Recorded just before the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show, the episode centers on one of the most practical yet underappreciated principles in skill development: approaching your craft with a beginner's mind, no matter how many years you've been on the water. Mac draws on feedback from students at recent west coast events — including anglers with 30 to 40 years of experience who received their first structured casting instruction — to illustrate how long-held assumptions can silently ceiling growth. The conversation touches on Mac's "four stages of learning" framework, the infinite circle of knowledge and the parallels between fly casting mastery and elite performance in any discipline. Practical spring fishing news also surfaces in the second half: listeners get actionable intel on early-season Quill Gordon dry fly hatches on wild Appalachian freestone streams, the ideal nymph sizing window as hatches begin (sizes 12–16) and emerging activity of little black stones and blue winged olives on Tennessee tailwaters. Mac and Marvin also preview their respective Lancaster show appearances and detail upcoming guide schools and casting classes at macbrownflyfish.com for anglers planning their spring season.

Key Takeaways

1. How adopting a beginner's mindset — staying open to new information regardless of experience level — is the single most reliable driver of improvement in fly casting and fishing.
2. Why intermediate anglers stagnate: the false belief that years of time on the water equates to skill development, which shuts down active learning before it can happen.
3. How Mac's four stages of learning framework maps the path from novice to expert, and why most anglers get stuck at stage two.
4. When Quill Gordon dry fly hatches arrive on wild Appalachian freestone streams, they represent one of the season's best dry fly windows because the adult floats for 15–20 minutes while hardening its wings.
5. Why early-season nymphs (sizes 12–14) are as large as they'll be all year, making this the optimal window to fish bigger nymph patterns before successive hatches progressively reduce insect size.
6. How structured instruction — rather than YouTube, books or show demos alone — accelerates skill acquisition in ways self-directed learning rarely can.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode is primarily instructional and conceptual rather than gear-heavy, but several practical fishing frameworks emerge. Mac references his own book Casting Angles — a fly casting handbook endorsed by the ACA and FFI — as the source material for the four stages of learning discussion, and directs listeners to the article on his website for a deeper read. The conversation touches on the comparative limitations of self-directed learning via YouTube and books versus structured in-person instruction, particularly for developing proper casting mechanics. On the dry fly fishing side, Mac recommends dry fly presentations targeting Quill Gordons on freestone streams in size 12, with the extended float window (15–20 minutes) making these hatches unusually productive for surface takes. Marvin notes that pairing size 14 and 16 nymphs during this same early-season window takes advantage of the year's largest nymph profiles before they diminish through the season. Mac also promotes two-day casting schools through macbrownflyfish.com as the highest-value instructional investment for anglers who want to advance their skills heading into spring.

Locations & Species

The episode references wild freestone streams in the Western North Carolina / Great Smoky Mountains region — Mac's home water around Bryson City — as the primary context for the early Quill Gordon hatch discussion, with these streams producing active trout as water temperatures begin to rise. Tennessee tailwaters are also noted as waters where little black stoneflies and blue winged olives are already appearing, signaling the beginning of productive surface-feeding windows. The target species throughout is wild trout, with Mac's commentary on Quill Gordon hatches specifically framed around waking large fish that have been dormant through winter. The seasonal framing is early spring, a transition period characterized by warming daytime temperatures, emerging hatches and increasingly active trout — one of the most productive dry fly windows of the year in the Southern Appalachians.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How does a beginner's mindset improve fly casting and fishing skills?

Beginners enter instruction with no preconceptions to dismantle, which makes them highly receptive to new technique and feedback. Mac argues that anglers who believe they are already proficient — after years of fishing without formal instruction — unknowingly stop absorbing new information, effectively stalling their development at the intermediate stage.

What are the four stages of learning in fly casting?

Mac's framework progresses from stage one (open absorption of fundamentals) through stage two (recognizing a problem exists but not knowing how to fix it — where most intermediate anglers stall) to stages three and four, where skills become internalized and self-correcting. He recommends reading the full article on his website for a detailed breakdown of each stage.

When is the Quill Gordon hatch and why is it such a good dry fly opportunity?

The Quill Gordon is an early-season mayfly that emerges on wild Appalachian freestone streams, typically before most other major hatches of the year. The adults float on the surface for 15–20 minutes while hardening their wings — an unusually long window that gives trout ample time to key on them and gives anglers sustained dry fly fishing action. Size 12 patterns are appropriate at peak emergence.

Why should anglers fish larger nymph patterns in early spring?

Nymph size follows a seasonal arc: early in the year, aquatic insects are at or near maximum size before the first hatches reduce their populations and successive generations emerge progressively smaller. Sizes 14 and 16 are particularly effective in this early window, as they match the naturals more accurately than the smaller patterns that will dominate later in the season.

What does Mac Brown recommend for anglers who want to improve most efficiently?

Mac consistently points to in-person structured instruction — particularly his two-day casting school — as the highest-leverage investment for improvement. He contrasts this with YouTube and book-based learning, which lack the real-time feedback loop required to correct ingrained errors and build proper mechanics into muscle memory.

Related Content

S7, Ep 16 - Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 20 - Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S7, Ep 28 - Warming Waters and Active Fish: A Spring Fishing Update with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 10 - Casting Angles with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 141 - Mastering Cold Weather Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Episode Overview

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown for another installment of Casting Angles — a wide-ranging conversation on the philosophy of continuous improvement in fly fishing and fly casting. Recorded just before the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show, the episode centers on one of the most practical yet underappreciated principles in skill development: approaching your craft with a beginner's mind, no matter how many years you've been on the water. Mac draws on feedback from students at recent west coast events — including anglers with 30 to 40 years of experience who received their first structured casting instruction — to illustrate how long-held assumptions can silently ceiling growth. The conversation touches on Mac's "four stages of learning" framework, the infinite circle of knowledge and the parallels between fly casting mastery and elite performance in any discipline. Practical spring fishing news also surfaces in the second half: listeners get actionable intel on early-season Quill Gordon dry fly hatches on wild Appalachian freestone streams, the ideal nymph sizing window as hatches begin (sizes 12–16) and emerging activity of little black stones and blue winged olives on Tennessee tailwaters. Mac and Marvin also preview their respective Lancaster show appearances and detail upcoming guide schools and casting classes at macbrownflyfish.com for anglers planning their spring season.

Key Takeaways

1. How adopting a beginner's mindset — staying open to new information regardless of experience level — is the single most reliable driver of improvement in fly casting and fishing.
2. Why intermediate anglers stagnate: the false belief that years of time on the water equates to skill development, which shuts down active learning before it can happen.
3. How Mac's four stages of learning framework maps the path from novice to expert, and why most anglers get stuck at stage two.
4. When Quill Gordon dry fly hatches arrive on wild Appalachian freestone streams, they represent one of the season's best dry fly windows because the adult floats for 15–20 minutes while hardening its wings.
5. Why early-season nymphs (sizes 12–14) are as large as they'll be all year, making this the optimal window to fish bigger nymph patterns before successive hatches progressively reduce insect size.
6. How structured instruction — rather than YouTube, books or show demos alone — accelerates skill acquisition in ways self-directed learning rarely can.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode is primarily instructional and conceptual rather than gear-heavy, but several practical fishing frameworks emerge. Mac references his own book Casting Angles — a fly casting handbook endorsed by the ACA and FFI — as the source material for the four stages of learning discussion, and directs listeners to the article on his website for a deeper read. The conversation touches on the comparative limitations of self-directed learning via YouTube and books versus structured in-person instruction, particularly for developing proper casting mechanics. On the dry fly fishing side, Mac recommends dry fly presentations targeting Quill Gordons on freestone streams in size 12, with the extended float window (15–20 minutes) making these hatches unusually productive for surface takes. Marvin notes that pairing size 14 and 16 nymphs during this same early-season window takes advantage of the year's largest nymph profiles before they diminish through the season. Mac also promotes two-day casting schools through macbrownflyfish.com as the highest-value instructional investment for anglers who want to advance their skills heading into spring.

Locations & Species

The episode references wild freestone streams in the Western North Carolina / Great Smoky Mountains region — Mac's home water around Bryson City — as the primary context for the early Quill Gordon hatch discussion, with these streams producing active trout as water temperatures begin to rise. Tennessee tailwaters are also noted as waters where little black stoneflies and blue winged olives are already appearing, signaling the beginning of productive surface-feeding windows. The target species throughout is wild trout, with Mac's commentary on Quill Gordon hatches specifically framed around waking large fish that have been dormant through winter. The seasonal framing is early spring, a transition period characterized by warming daytime temperatures, emerging hatches and increasingly active trout — one of the most productive dry fly windows of the year in the Southern Appalachians.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How does a beginner's mindset improve fly casting and fishing skills?

Beginners enter instruction with no preconceptions to dismantle, which makes them highly receptive to new technique and feedback. Mac argues that anglers who believe they are already proficient — after years of fishing without formal instruction — unknowingly stop absorbing new information, effectively stalling their development at the intermediate stage.

What are the four stages of learning in fly casting?

Mac's framework progresses from stage one (open absorption of fundamentals) through stage two (recognizing a problem exists but not knowing how to fix it — where most intermediate anglers stall) to stages three and four, where skills become internalized and self-correcting. He recommends reading the full article on his website for a detailed breakdown of each stage.

When is the Quill Gordon hatch and why is it such a good dry fly opportunity?

The Quill Gordon is an early-season mayfly that emerges on wild Appalachian freestone streams, typically before most other major hatches of the year. The adults float on the surface for 15–20 minutes while hardening their wings — an unusually long window that gives trout ample time to key on them and gives anglers sustained dry fly fishing action. Size 12 patterns are appropriate at peak emergence.

Why should anglers fish larger nymph patterns in early spring?

Nymph size follows a seasonal arc: early in the year, aquatic insects are at or near maximum size before the first hatches reduce their populations and successive generations emerge progressively smaller. Sizes 14 and 16 are particularly effective in this early window, as they match the naturals more accurately than the smaller patterns that will dominate later in the season.

What does Mac Brown recommend for anglers who want to improve most efficiently?

Mac consistently points to in-person structured instruction — particularly his two-day casting school — as the highest-leverage investment for improvement. He contrasts this with YouTube and book-based learning, which lack the real-time feedback loop required to correct ingrained errors and build proper mechanics into muscle memory.

Related Content

S7, Ep 16 - Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 20 - Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S7, Ep 28 - Warming Waters and Active Fish: A Spring Fishing Update with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 10 - Casting Angles with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 141 - Mastering Cold Weather Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In this Chocklett Factory episode of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash sits down with legendary fly designer and guide Blane Chocklett for a wide-ranging conversation covering two central topics: the mechanics and design philosophy behind Chocklett's support disc and spreader dam system, and the upcoming Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest conservation event in Vero Beach, Florida. Blane explains how his support discs — available in round and oval profiles ranging from 6mm to over 20mm — create the water diversion that drives the serpentine, side-to-side swimming action that defines Game Changer articulated flies. Rather than relying solely on fiber tips to generate movement, the supports actively redirect water flow around the body of the fly, producing a realistic fish-like swimming motion that passive designs cannot replicate. Blane also walks through the practical tying advantages: faster construction, easier material distribution, built-in profile tapering and greater fly longevity. The second half of the conversation turns to Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest, a conservation-focused event benefiting the American Saltwater Guides Association (ASGA), set for March 21 in Vero Beach at Carter Andrews's property. Blane shares the vision behind the event — honoring legends like Lefty Kreh and Bob Popovics while cultivating the next generation of anglers — and previews an intimate lineup that includes Andy Mill, Rob Fordyce, Hillary Hutcheson, Carter Andrews, Chase Smith and Fletcher Sams, among others.

Key Takeaways

1. How water diversion around the body of an articulated fly — not just fiber-tip movement — produces a true serpentine swimming action that triggers more strikes.
2. Why Chocklett support discs in graduated sizes (6mm through 20mm+) allow tiers to build precise, tapered profiles for different baitfish silhouettes without excess material.
3. How to choose between round disc supports (cylindrical/sucker profiles) and oval supports (taller, narrower bunker or shad profiles) to match specific forage.
4. Why the Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest model — small, intimate, conservation-focused — delivers meaningful angler access to fly fishing legends that larger industry shows cannot replicate.
5. How supporting ASGA through events like Tie Fest funds the fisheries science that policymakers need to protect saltwater species populations long term.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The core technical discussion centers on Chocklett's support disc and spreader dam system as a mechanism for achieving active water diversion and realistic swimming action in articulated flies. Blane explains that while Bobby Popovics' reverse-tie bucktail approach relied on fiber tips for passive movement, inserting support discs into the body of a Beast-style or Game Changer fly forces water to divert around the structure, initiating true left-to-right serpentine motion. The system uses two disc geometries — round supports for cylindrical profiles (suckers) and oval supports for taller, narrower silhouettes (bunker, shad) — in graduated sizes from 6mm to over 20mm, allowing tiers to stair-step profile width from tail to shoulder for a natural taper. Practically, the supports eliminate the need to reverse-tie bucktail and guess fiber length, dramatically simplifying the tying process while also extending fly longevity by preventing bucktail collapsing and thinning out over time. Materials referenced include bucktail, synthetic fibers and TFO rods (Blane is a TFO brand ambassador).

Locations & Species

The episode's fishing-specific travel content focuses on the Alabama Gulf Coast, which Blane describes as a highly underrated saltwater destination where clear Florida-influenced water meets the nutrient influence of the Mississippi Delta. He fished this area out of FlyWay Charters with guide Sam (based near the Community Fly Supply shop), targeting redfish, black drum, tripletail, jack crevalle and sheepshead. The Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest event at Vero Beach, Florida, adds another saltwater context — the Indian River Lagoon and Treasure Coast area known for tarpon, snook and permit, ecosystems that ASGA's conservation work is specifically designed to protect. The episode's conservation framing extends to the broader health of saltwater species populations across coastal fisheries, with Blane connecting healthy fisheries to the long-term viability of saltwater fly fishing as both a sport and a guiding profession.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How do Chocklett support discs create a serpentine swimming action in articulated flies?

When a support disc is placed inside the body of an articulated fly, it forces water to divert around the structure rather than flowing straight through the fibers. That diversion initiates a side-to-side, serpentine movement that mimics the natural swimming motion of a baitfish — something fiber-tip movement alone cannot produce. The key mechanism is active water redirection, not passive fiber flutter.

What is the difference between round and oval Chocklett support discs?

Round supports create a cylindrical cross-section ideal for sucker or cigar-shaped baitfish profiles. Oval supports produce a taller, narrower shape suited to bunker, shad or other laterally-flattened forage. By selecting the appropriate geometry and stepping up through graduated sizes from tail to shoulder, tiers can build a precise taper that matches the specific baitfish they are trying to imitate.

How do support discs improve fly durability and ease of tying?

Traditional reverse-tie bucktail construction tends to collapse and thin out over time, degrading fly performance. Support discs maintain the shape and fiber position for the life of the fly. They also eliminate the need to reverse-tie and guess at fiber length, making even distribution around the hook much easier and faster — a meaningful benefit for tiers who don't spend hours at the bench every week.

What is Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest and why does it matter for fly fishing conservation?

Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest is an annual event — revived after Lefty Kreh's passing — held at Carter Andrews's property in Vero Beach, Florida, that combines a day-long outdoor festival with a benefit dinner. Proceeds support the American Saltwater Guides Association (ASGA), which funds fisheries science and advocacy needed to influence policy protecting saltwater species. Blane frames it as both a celebration of the sport's legends and an investment in its future.

What makes the Alabama Gulf Coast a worthwhile saltwater fly fishing destination?

The Alabama coastline sits at a confluence of clear, Florida-influenced water and the productive, nutrient-rich influence of the Mississippi Delta, producing diverse species opportunities in a relatively uncrowded setting. Target species include redfish, black drum, tripletail, jack crevalle and sheepshead across multiple seasons. Blane characterizes it as highly overlooked and a strong destination for anglers seeking variety outside of better-known Gulf and Atlantic coastal fisheries.

Related Content

S7, Ep 42 – Celebrating Legacy and Conservation with The Chocklett Factory

S7, Ep 61 – The Chocklett Factory Unleashed: New Flies and Other Goodies with Blane Chocklett

S7, Ep 73 – The Chocklett Factory: Sneak Peek at New Products

S6, Ep 144 – The Chocklett Factory: Conservation, New Products and a Legacy Remembered

S2, Ep 114 – All Things Game Changer with Blane Chocklett

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Blane on Facebook...]]>Episode Overview

In this Chocklett Factory episode of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash sits down with legendary fly designer and guide Blane Chocklett for a wide-ranging conversation covering two central topics: the mechanics and design philosophy behind Chocklett's support disc and spreader dam system, and the upcoming Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest conservation event in Vero Beach, Florida. Blane explains how his support discs — available in round and oval profiles ranging from 6mm to over 20mm — create the water diversion that drives the serpentine, side-to-side swimming action that defines Game Changer articulated flies. Rather than relying solely on fiber tips to generate movement, the supports actively redirect water flow around the body of the fly, producing a realistic fish-like swimming motion that passive designs cannot replicate. Blane also walks through the practical tying advantages: faster construction, easier material distribution, built-in profile tapering and greater fly longevity. The second half of the conversation turns to Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest, a conservation-focused event benefiting the American Saltwater Guides Association (ASGA), set for March 21 in Vero Beach at Carter Andrews's property. Blane shares the vision behind the event — honoring legends like Lefty Kreh and Bob Popovics while cultivating the next generation of anglers — and previews an intimate lineup that includes Andy Mill, Rob Fordyce, Hillary Hutcheson, Carter Andrews, Chase Smith and Fletcher Sams, among others.

Key Takeaways

1. How water diversion around the body of an articulated fly — not just fiber-tip movement — produces a true serpentine swimming action that triggers more strikes.
2. Why Chocklett support discs in graduated sizes (6mm through 20mm+) allow tiers to build precise, tapered profiles for different baitfish silhouettes without excess material.
3. How to choose between round disc supports (cylindrical/sucker profiles) and oval supports (taller, narrower bunker or shad profiles) to match specific forage.
4. Why the Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest model — small, intimate, conservation-focused — delivers meaningful angler access to fly fishing legends that larger industry shows cannot replicate.
5. How supporting ASGA through events like Tie Fest funds the fisheries science that policymakers need to protect saltwater species populations long term.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The core technical discussion centers on Chocklett's support disc and spreader dam system as a mechanism for achieving active water diversion and realistic swimming action in articulated flies. Blane explains that while Bobby Popovics' reverse-tie bucktail approach relied on fiber tips for passive movement, inserting support discs into the body of a Beast-style or Game Changer fly forces water to divert around the structure, initiating true left-to-right serpentine motion. The system uses two disc geometries — round supports for cylindrical profiles (suckers) and oval supports for taller, narrower silhouettes (bunker, shad) — in graduated sizes from 6mm to over 20mm, allowing tiers to stair-step profile width from tail to shoulder for a natural taper. Practically, the supports eliminate the need to reverse-tie bucktail and guess fiber length, dramatically simplifying the tying process while also extending fly longevity by preventing bucktail collapsing and thinning out over time. Materials referenced include bucktail, synthetic fibers and TFO rods (Blane is a TFO brand ambassador).

Locations & Species

The episode's fishing-specific travel content focuses on the Alabama Gulf Coast, which Blane describes as a highly underrated saltwater destination where clear Florida-influenced water meets the nutrient influence of the Mississippi Delta. He fished this area out of FlyWay Charters with guide Sam (based near the Community Fly Supply shop), targeting redfish, black drum, tripletail, jack crevalle and sheepshead. The Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest event at Vero Beach, Florida, adds another saltwater context — the Indian River Lagoon and Treasure Coast area known for tarpon, snook and permit, ecosystems that ASGA's conservation work is specifically designed to protect. The episode's conservation framing extends to the broader health of saltwater species populations across coastal fisheries, with Blane connecting healthy fisheries to the long-term viability of saltwater fly fishing as both a sport and a guiding profession.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How do Chocklett support discs create a serpentine swimming action in articulated flies?

When a support disc is placed inside the body of an articulated fly, it forces water to divert around the structure rather than flowing straight through the fibers. That diversion initiates a side-to-side, serpentine movement that mimics the natural swimming motion of a baitfish — something fiber-tip movement alone cannot produce. The key mechanism is active water redirection, not passive fiber flutter.

What is the difference between round and oval Chocklett support discs?

Round supports create a cylindrical cross-section ideal for sucker or cigar-shaped baitfish profiles. Oval supports produce a taller, narrower shape suited to bunker, shad or other laterally-flattened forage. By selecting the appropriate geometry and stepping up through graduated sizes from tail to shoulder, tiers can build a precise taper that matches the specific baitfish they are trying to imitate.

How do support discs improve fly durability and ease of tying?

Traditional reverse-tie bucktail construction tends to collapse and thin out over time, degrading fly performance. Support discs maintain the shape and fiber position for the life of the fly. They also eliminate the need to reverse-tie and guess at fiber length, making even distribution around the hook much easier and faster — a meaningful benefit for tiers who don't spend hours at the bench every week.

What is Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest and why does it matter for fly fishing conservation?

Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest is an annual event — revived after Lefty Kreh's passing — held at Carter Andrews's property in Vero Beach, Florida, that combines a day-long outdoor festival with a benefit dinner. Proceeds support the American Saltwater Guides Association (ASGA), which funds fisheries science and advocacy needed to influence policy protecting saltwater species. Blane frames it as both a celebration of the sport's legends and an investment in its future.

What makes the Alabama Gulf Coast a worthwhile saltwater fly fishing destination?

The Alabama coastline sits at a confluence of clear, Florida-influenced water and the productive, nutrient-rich influence of the Mississippi Delta, producing diverse species opportunities in a relatively uncrowded setting. Target species include redfish, black drum, tripletail, jack crevalle and sheepshead across multiple seasons. Blane characterizes it as highly overlooked and a strong destination for anglers seeking variety outside of better-known Gulf and Atlantic coastal fisheries.

Related Content

S7, Ep 42 – Celebrating Legacy and Conservation with The Chocklett Factory

S7, Ep 61 – The Chocklett Factory Unleashed: New Flies and Other Goodies with Blane Chocklett

S7, Ep 73 – The Chocklett Factory: Sneak Peek at New Products

S6, Ep 144 – The Chocklett Factory: Conservation, New Products and a Legacy Remembered

S2, Ep 114 – All Things Game Changer with Blane Chocklett

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Blane on Facebook and Instagram.

Follow The Chocklett Factory on Instagram.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

Drew Price of Master Class Angling returns to The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast to deliver a season debrief from Lake Champlain and discuss the release of his debut book, Favorite Flies for Vermont: 50 Essential Patterns from Local Experts (Stackpole Books). For anglers curious about multi-species fly fishing in the Northeast or the fly patterns that actually produce on Vermont's diverse waters, this episode covers both with depth and specificity.

The 2025 season on Champlain was defined by record-low water levels — a rarity that revealed structure Drew had never seen and produced drone footage that will inform future guiding. Bowfin fishing was among the best he's seen in years, and November lake trout fishing exceeded expectations, reflecting growing demand for Laker guide trips. Drew brings that same multi-species perspective to the book, which covers 53 patterns ranging from pragmatic brook trout dries and blue-line streamer patterns to bowfin, gar and bass flies — including Drew's own glow-in-the-dark Clouser Minnow variation for lake trout and Chocklett-influenced bowfin patterns he's adapted for Champlain conditions. The conversation also covers the production process in candid detail: Drew's self-directed macro fly photography, his phone-interview approach to wrangling 50-plus tiers across Vermont and the editorial relationship with Jay Nichols at Stackpole. The historical dimension is a highlight — patterns like the Governor Aiken Bucktail, the Spirit of Pittsford Mills and a tribute to the late Rhey Plumley place Vermont's fly fishing culture in a lineage that goes back to Mary Orvis Marbury's early commercial tying work in Manchester.

Key Takeaways

1. How a record-low water year on Lake Champlain exposed bottom structure and shifted Drew's understanding of fish-holding spots in ways that will pay off for seasons to come.
2. Why Vermont fly tiers skew pragmatic — tying quickly and in volume over aesthetics — and why beat-up flies often outfish perfect ones.
3. How to properly attribute pattern variations to their originators, and why that intellectual honesty matters for the sport's tying culture.
4. When to expect outstanding lake trout fishing on Lake Champlain, with November emerging as a peak window for fly rod Lakers.
5. Why Lake Champlain's combination of world-class bass fishing, exceptional bowfin populations (including multiple IGFA tippet-class records) and 88 resident species makes it an underappreciated destination for fly anglers.
6. How Tom Rosenbauer's CDC Rabbit's Foot Emerger became a standout pattern in the book, and what the story behind its development reveals about matching emerger behavior in the surface film.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode touches on a range of techniques tied to Champlain's multi-species fishery rather than a single tactical deep dive. Sight fishing in the shallows — push-pole work targeting bowfin, gar and carp — is central to Drew's guiding approach, and several flies in the book were designed specifically for those conditions. For lake trout, Drew discusses his glow-in-the-dark Clouser Minnow variation, a deep-November pattern that he describes as producing an unmistakable visual trigger as the fly returns to the boat in the dark. Variations on Blane Chocklett's patterns adapted for bowfin fishing also feature in the book, illustrating how Game Changer-platform thinking has crossed over into the warm-water exotic-species world. The book's fly photography (all shot by Drew himself using a macro setup he developed during the writing process) includes both hyper-realistic imitative patterns — like Thomas Ames's emerging caddis, designed to capture a specific stage of insect emergence — and intentionally rough, high-production guide flies built for Vermont's blue-line brook trout water. The trolling application of the Governor Aiken Bucktail for landlocked salmon rounds out the technique coverage, reflecting the lake's migratory salmonid fishery that intensifies in fall.

Locations & Species

The episode centers on Lake Champlain and the broader Vermont fly fishing ecosystem, with the lake positioned as a legitimate destination fishery for bass, bowfin, lake trout, pike, gar, carp and landlocked salmon — as well as brown trout and brook trout in the tributary streams. Drew notes that Champlain has ranked among the top five bass lakes in the country according to Bassmaster for three decades, and that it holds records across IGFA tippet classes for bowfin. The book also addresses Vermont's blue-line brook trout fishery, acknowledging the state's honest limitations as a trout destination (no super-consistent hatches, less predictable than Pennsylvania or Colorado tailwaters) while pointing readers to the wild brook trout corridors that define summer fly fishing in Vermont. Historically notable waters referenced include Furnace Brook in Pittsford — President Eisenhower's favorite trout stream — and the Northeast Kingdom, the setting for an archival photo tied to the Governor Aiken Bucktail chapter. November is flagged as a particularly productive window for lake trout on fly, with record-low 2025 water conditions adding context for why structure knowledge carries outsized importance on Champlain.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

What made the 2025 fishing season on Lake Champlain unusual?

The lake hit near-record low water levels in 2025, a sharp contrast to the high-water years immediately prior. The low water exposed bottom structure Drew had never seen, allowing him to understand exactly why fish hold in certain locations. Drone footage from the season is now part of his ongoing location research.

What types of flies are featured in Favorite Flies for Vermont?

The book covers 53 patterns, with roughly 40 trout flies and the remainder targeting warm-water and exotic species including bowfin, gar and bass. Patterns range from simple Tenkara-style CDC dries to hyper-realistic emerger caddis imitations from Thomas Ames. Several historically significant Vermont patterns are included, such as the Governor Aiken Bucktail and the Spirit of Pittsford Mills dry fly, with full attribution and historical context for each.

How does Drew Price approach pattern attribution in his book?

Drew is deliberate about crediting the originators of any pattern he's adapted, even when his modifications are significant. Variations on Blane Chocklett's warm-water patterns and a riff on Bob Clouser's minnow design for lake trout are both attributed explicitly in the text. He extends the same standard to historical patterns, tracing variations back through the tying lineage rather than presenting adaptations as entirely original work.

When is the best time to fish for lake trout on Lake Champlain with a fly?

November stands out as the peak window, based on Drew's guide experience. The season saw strong late-year Laker fishing and a notable uptick in guided Laker trip requests, which Drew describes as a welcome surprise. A glow-in-the-dark Clouser Minnow variation is his go-to pattern for night-time and low-light Laker sessions on the lake.

Why does Drew Price consider Lake Champlain an underrated fly fishing destination?

Champlain holds 88 species, roughly 30 of which are realistic fly rod targets — Drew has personally caught 15 different species in a single day on fly. The lake consistently ranks among the top five bass lakes in the U.S. and has produced IGFA tippet-class records for bowfin across nearly all classes. Despite those credentials, it remains well below the radar of most traveling fly anglers, which Drew is actively trying to change through the book and continued guiding.

Sponsors

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use ARTFLY20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Related Content

S7, Ep 27 – Master Class Angling: The Art of Fishing Exotic Species with Drew Price

S7, Ep 8 – Fly Tying Mastery: Tim Cammisa's New Book and Euro Nymphing Adventures

S2, Ep 114 – All Things Game Changer with Blane Chocklett

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Master Class Angling on Instagram.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Episode Overview

Drew Price of Master Class Angling returns to The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast to deliver a season debrief from Lake Champlain and discuss the release of his debut book, Favorite Flies for Vermont: 50 Essential Patterns from Local Experts (Stackpole Books). For anglers curious about multi-species fly fishing in the Northeast or the fly patterns that actually produce on Vermont's diverse waters, this episode covers both with depth and specificity.

The 2025 season on Champlain was defined by record-low water levels — a rarity that revealed structure Drew had never seen and produced drone footage that will inform future guiding. Bowfin fishing was among the best he's seen in years, and November lake trout fishing exceeded expectations, reflecting growing demand for Laker guide trips. Drew brings that same multi-species perspective to the book, which covers 53 patterns ranging from pragmatic brook trout dries and blue-line streamer patterns to bowfin, gar and bass flies — including Drew's own glow-in-the-dark Clouser Minnow variation for lake trout and Chocklett-influenced bowfin patterns he's adapted for Champlain conditions. The conversation also covers the production process in candid detail: Drew's self-directed macro fly photography, his phone-interview approach to wrangling 50-plus tiers across Vermont and the editorial relationship with Jay Nichols at Stackpole. The historical dimension is a highlight — patterns like the Governor Aiken Bucktail, the Spirit of Pittsford Mills and a tribute to the late Rhey Plumley place Vermont's fly fishing culture in a lineage that goes back to Mary Orvis Marbury's early commercial tying work in Manchester.

Key Takeaways

1. How a record-low water year on Lake Champlain exposed bottom structure and shifted Drew's understanding of fish-holding spots in ways that will pay off for seasons to come.
2. Why Vermont fly tiers skew pragmatic — tying quickly and in volume over aesthetics — and why beat-up flies often outfish perfect ones.
3. How to properly attribute pattern variations to their originators, and why that intellectual honesty matters for the sport's tying culture.
4. When to expect outstanding lake trout fishing on Lake Champlain, with November emerging as a peak window for fly rod Lakers.
5. Why Lake Champlain's combination of world-class bass fishing, exceptional bowfin populations (including multiple IGFA tippet-class records) and 88 resident species makes it an underappreciated destination for fly anglers.
6. How Tom Rosenbauer's CDC Rabbit's Foot Emerger became a standout pattern in the book, and what the story behind its development reveals about matching emerger behavior in the surface film.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode touches on a range of techniques tied to Champlain's multi-species fishery rather than a single tactical deep dive. Sight fishing in the shallows — push-pole work targeting bowfin, gar and carp — is central to Drew's guiding approach, and several flies in the book were designed specifically for those conditions. For lake trout, Drew discusses his glow-in-the-dark Clouser Minnow variation, a deep-November pattern that he describes as producing an unmistakable visual trigger as the fly returns to the boat in the dark. Variations on Blane Chocklett's patterns adapted for bowfin fishing also feature in the book, illustrating how Game Changer-platform thinking has crossed over into the warm-water exotic-species world. The book's fly photography (all shot by Drew himself using a macro setup he developed during the writing process) includes both hyper-realistic imitative patterns — like Thomas Ames's emerging caddis, designed to capture a specific stage of insect emergence — and intentionally rough, high-production guide flies built for Vermont's blue-line brook trout water. The trolling application of the Governor Aiken Bucktail for landlocked salmon rounds out the technique coverage, reflecting the lake's migratory salmonid fishery that intensifies in fall.

Locations & Species

The episode centers on Lake Champlain and the broader Vermont fly fishing ecosystem, with the lake positioned as a legitimate destination fishery for bass, bowfin, lake trout, pike, gar, carp and landlocked salmon — as well as brown trout and brook trout in the tributary streams. Drew notes that Champlain has ranked among the top five bass lakes in the country according to Bassmaster for three decades, and that it holds records across IGFA tippet classes for bowfin. The book also addresses Vermont's blue-line brook trout fishery, acknowledging the state's honest limitations as a trout destination (no super-consistent hatches, less predictable than Pennsylvania or Colorado tailwaters) while pointing readers to the wild brook trout corridors that define summer fly fishing in Vermont. Historically notable waters referenced include Furnace Brook in Pittsford — President Eisenhower's favorite trout stream — and the Northeast Kingdom, the setting for an archival photo tied to the Governor Aiken Bucktail chapter. November is flagged as a particularly productive window for lake trout on fly, with record-low 2025 water conditions adding context for why structure knowledge carries outsized importance on Champlain.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

What made the 2025 fishing season on Lake Champlain unusual?

The lake hit near-record low water levels in 2025, a sharp contrast to the high-water years immediately prior. The low water exposed bottom structure Drew had never seen, allowing him to understand exactly why fish hold in certain locations. Drone footage from the season is now part of his ongoing location research.

What types of flies are featured in Favorite Flies for Vermont?

The book covers 53 patterns, with roughly 40 trout flies and the remainder targeting warm-water and exotic species including bowfin, gar and bass. Patterns range from simple Tenkara-style CDC dries to hyper-realistic emerger caddis imitations from Thomas Ames. Several historically significant Vermont patterns are included, such as the Governor Aiken Bucktail and the Spirit of Pittsford Mills dry fly, with full attribution and historical context for each.

How does Drew Price approach pattern attribution in his book?

Drew is deliberate about crediting the originators of any pattern he's adapted, even when his modifications are significant. Variations on Blane Chocklett's warm-water patterns and a riff on Bob Clouser's minnow design for lake trout are both attributed explicitly in the text. He extends the same standard to historical patterns, tracing variations back through the tying lineage rather than presenting adaptations as entirely original work.

When is the best time to fish for lake trout on Lake Champlain with a fly?

November stands out as the peak window, based on Drew's guide experience. The season saw strong late-year Laker fishing and a notable uptick in guided Laker trip requests, which Drew describes as a welcome surprise. A glow-in-the-dark Clouser Minnow variation is his go-to pattern for night-time and low-light Laker sessions on the lake.

Why does Drew Price consider Lake Champlain an underrated fly fishing destination?

Champlain holds 88 species, roughly 30 of which are realistic fly rod targets — Drew has personally caught 15 different species in a single day on fly. The lake consistently ranks among the top five bass lakes in the U.S. and has produced IGFA tippet-class records for bowfin across nearly all classes. Despite those credentials, it remains well below the radar of most traveling fly anglers, which Drew is actively trying to change through the book and continued guiding.

Sponsors

Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use ARTFLY20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.

Related Content

S7, Ep 27 – Master Class Angling: The Art of Fishing Exotic Species with Drew Price

S7, Ep 8 – Fly Tying Mastery: Tim Cammisa's New Book and Euro Nymphing Adventures

S2, Ep 114 – All Things Game Changer with Blane Chocklett

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Master Class Angling on Instagram.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:17 Lake Champlain Fishing Season Overview

07:30 Target Audience for the Book

08:45 Historical Significance of Vermont Patterns

11:40 Overview of the Book's Content

16:38 Challenges in Writing and Editing

29:01 The Transition from Trout to Exotic Species

34:36 Reflections on the Writing Experience

East Tennessee guide Ellis Ward joins host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast for a late-winter fishing report covering the South Holston River and surrounding tailwaters. In this episode, Ellis breaks down how unpredictable dam generation schedules and fluctuating flows are the primary drivers of inconsistent fishing windows — more so than weather — and why that reality demands a fundamentally different mental approach from serious anglers. With BWO hatches failing to materialize on days that should produce blizzard conditions, and streamer eat windows compressing to brief, unpredictable pulses, Ellis and Marvin draw a direct parallel between the relentless focus required for post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing and the mental discipline musky anglers already understand. The conversation covers the critical tactical mindset of hunting specific, quality fish rather than grinding for numbers, how to stay locked in through hours of blank water, and why the angler who stays mentally present from first cast to last is the angler who converts when a big brown finally commits. Looking ahead, Ellis previews the approaching caddis hatch and the narrow pre-spawn musky window before the fish pull off into their spawning cycle — a brief but high-opportunity period for anglers willing to position now.

Key Takeaways

1. How flow variability on Tennessee tailwaters — more than weather or barometric pressure — controls streamer bite windows and hatch activity, and why monitoring generation schedules is the first step in trip planning.
2. Why the mental framework musky anglers already bring to the water is the correct lens for post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing, where long blank stretches between eats are the rule rather than the exception.
3. How to maintain cast-to-cast focus through low-feedback hours by loading your brain with data that supports your confidence in the water type and technique, rather than drifting toward easier or more visible options.
4. When to pivot between top-run and bottom-run tailwater zones based on current flow constraints, and why reading the release schedule lets you prioritize water before you ever launch the boat.
5. How Ellis Ward's newsletter gives subscribers first access to grade-one and grade-two bucktails before they sell out, making sign-up through elliswardflies.com the only reliable way to secure top-shelf material.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode centers on streamer fishing for post-spawn brown trout on tailwaters, with Ellis emphasizing that successful execution is less about pattern selection in the moment and more about willingness to grind through extended non-productive stretches with the same intensity you brought to the first cast. He describes the challenge of top-run versus bottom-run water selection under constrained flows, highlighting how generation schedules completely restructure where holdable current and soft edges exist. Ellis also touches on the early-season caddis hatch approaching within a week or two, noting that small caddis coming off will begin to offer aggressive dry fly opportunities for fish that, under current windy and unsettled conditions, are largely unreachable on top.

Locations & Species

The episode focuses primarily on the Watauga River and the South Holston River in East Tennessee, tailwater systems whose fishing quality is directly tied to TVA generation schedules rather than ambient weather. Ellis notes the South Holston is currently sluicing approximately 200 CFS as a result of a scheduled generator outage lasting two to three months. Brown trout are the primary target species throughout — specifically large fish in the 20-plus-inch class that are accessible via streamer presentations during the brief windows of stable, consistent flow that punctuate the current uncertainty. Musky are the secondary species, with Ellis confirming both fish and conditions have been similarly variable; however, the late-winter/early-spring period preceding the spawn represents a high-value window before the fish cycle off and become largely unavailable for several weeks.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

Why aren't the BWO hatches producing consistent rising fish on the Watauga right now?

Ellis attributes the inconsistency primarily to flow variability from TVA generation schedules rather than weather. Trout on tailwaters calibrate their feeding behavior to consistent hydraulic conditions, and when releases are irregular — hour-long pulses, for example — fish that should be rising during prime BWO conditions simply aren't. He notes he's been on the water five to six days a week for a month and has seen days that should produce blizzard hatches with zero risers.

How should an angler approach post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing mentally?

Both Ellis and Marvin agree that the correct mental model is the one musky anglers already operate with: accept that the eat may come once every several hours, load your brain with data supporting why the water type and presentation are correct, and maintain the same level of focus and deliberate presentation on cast 100 as you brought to cast one. Letting down after long blank periods — drifting toward nymphing or watching for risers — is precisely what reduces the probability of converting when the opportunity finally appears.

What's the difference between hunting big fish and accidentally catching big fish?

Marvin frames this directly and Ellis affirms it: intentional hunting means committing to the technique, the water and the mindset required for a specific category of fish, accepting low frequency as the cost of quality. The alternative — spreading effort across multiple easier techniques — increases the odds of catching something but dramatically reduces the odds of connecting with a true trophy. Ellis makes this point from the guide's perspective, noting he has extensive data on which approach produces the fish his most dedicated repeat clients come back for.

How do you get access to Ellis Ward's bucktail drops before they sell out?

Sign up for the newsletter at elliswardflies.com. Ellis sends email notification one day before the public drop, which is when grade-one and grade-two tails — and most grade-threes — sell out. No other access tier exists; the newsletter is the sole early-access channel. He can also be reached directly by phone at 513-543-0019 or on Instagram at @elliswardguides.

Related Content

S8, Ep 5 – Frosty Mornings and Musky Pursuits: January Fishing Insights with Ellis Ward

S7, Ep 14 – The Streamer Playbook: Tips and Tactics for Targeting Big Trout in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward

S7, Ep 45 – Navigating the Waters: Streamers and Strategies in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward

S6, Ep 37 – Streamer Secrets and Dry Fly Dreams with East Tennessee's Ellis Ward

S6, Ep 142 – Winter Musky Adventures and Streamer Tactics with Ellis Ward

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Ellis and Flyzotics on Instagram.

Follow Ellis on YouTube.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Episode Overview

East Tennessee guide Ellis Ward joins host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast for a late-winter fishing report covering the South Holston River and surrounding tailwaters. In this episode, Ellis breaks down how unpredictable dam generation schedules and fluctuating flows are the primary drivers of inconsistent fishing windows — more so than weather — and why that reality demands a fundamentally different mental approach from serious anglers. With BWO hatches failing to materialize on days that should produce blizzard conditions, and streamer eat windows compressing to brief, unpredictable pulses, Ellis and Marvin draw a direct parallel between the relentless focus required for post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing and the mental discipline musky anglers already understand. The conversation covers the critical tactical mindset of hunting specific, quality fish rather than grinding for numbers, how to stay locked in through hours of blank water, and why the angler who stays mentally present from first cast to last is the angler who converts when a big brown finally commits. Looking ahead, Ellis previews the approaching caddis hatch and the narrow pre-spawn musky window before the fish pull off into their spawning cycle — a brief but high-opportunity period for anglers willing to position now.

Key Takeaways

1. How flow variability on Tennessee tailwaters — more than weather or barometric pressure — controls streamer bite windows and hatch activity, and why monitoring generation schedules is the first step in trip planning.
2. Why the mental framework musky anglers already bring to the water is the correct lens for post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing, where long blank stretches between eats are the rule rather than the exception.
3. How to maintain cast-to-cast focus through low-feedback hours by loading your brain with data that supports your confidence in the water type and technique, rather than drifting toward easier or more visible options.
4. When to pivot between top-run and bottom-run tailwater zones based on current flow constraints, and why reading the release schedule lets you prioritize water before you ever launch the boat.
5. How Ellis Ward's newsletter gives subscribers first access to grade-one and grade-two bucktails before they sell out, making sign-up through elliswardflies.com the only reliable way to secure top-shelf material.

Techniques & Gear Covered

The episode centers on streamer fishing for post-spawn brown trout on tailwaters, with Ellis emphasizing that successful execution is less about pattern selection in the moment and more about willingness to grind through extended non-productive stretches with the same intensity you brought to the first cast. He describes the challenge of top-run versus bottom-run water selection under constrained flows, highlighting how generation schedules completely restructure where holdable current and soft edges exist. Ellis also touches on the early-season caddis hatch approaching within a week or two, noting that small caddis coming off will begin to offer aggressive dry fly opportunities for fish that, under current windy and unsettled conditions, are largely unreachable on top.

Locations & Species

The episode focuses primarily on the Watauga River and the South Holston River in East Tennessee, tailwater systems whose fishing quality is directly tied to TVA generation schedules rather than ambient weather. Ellis notes the South Holston is currently sluicing approximately 200 CFS as a result of a scheduled generator outage lasting two to three months. Brown trout are the primary target species throughout — specifically large fish in the 20-plus-inch class that are accessible via streamer presentations during the brief windows of stable, consistent flow that punctuate the current uncertainty. Musky are the secondary species, with Ellis confirming both fish and conditions have been similarly variable; however, the late-winter/early-spring period preceding the spawn represents a high-value window before the fish cycle off and become largely unavailable for several weeks.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

Why aren't the BWO hatches producing consistent rising fish on the Watauga right now?

Ellis attributes the inconsistency primarily to flow variability from TVA generation schedules rather than weather. Trout on tailwaters calibrate their feeding behavior to consistent hydraulic conditions, and when releases are irregular — hour-long pulses, for example — fish that should be rising during prime BWO conditions simply aren't. He notes he's been on the water five to six days a week for a month and has seen days that should produce blizzard hatches with zero risers.

How should an angler approach post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing mentally?

Both Ellis and Marvin agree that the correct mental model is the one musky anglers already operate with: accept that the eat may come once every several hours, load your brain with data supporting why the water type and presentation are correct, and maintain the same level of focus and deliberate presentation on cast 100 as you brought to cast one. Letting down after long blank periods — drifting toward nymphing or watching for risers — is precisely what reduces the probability of converting when the opportunity finally appears.

What's the difference between hunting big fish and accidentally catching big fish?

Marvin frames this directly and Ellis affirms it: intentional hunting means committing to the technique, the water and the mindset required for a specific category of fish, accepting low frequency as the cost of quality. The alternative — spreading effort across multiple easier techniques — increases the odds of catching something but dramatically reduces the odds of connecting with a true trophy. Ellis makes this point from the guide's perspective, noting he has extensive data on which approach produces the fish his most dedicated repeat clients come back for.

How do you get access to Ellis Ward's bucktail drops before they sell out?

Sign up for the newsletter at elliswardflies.com. Ellis sends email notification one day before the public drop, which is when grade-one and grade-two tails — and most grade-threes — sell out. No other access tier exists; the newsletter is the sole early-access channel. He can also be reached directly by phone at 513-543-0019 or on Instagram at @elliswardguides.

Related Content

S8, Ep 5 – Frosty Mornings and Musky Pursuits: January Fishing Insights with Ellis Ward

S7, Ep 14 – The Streamer Playbook: Tips and Tactics for Targeting Big Trout in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward

S7, Ep 45 – Navigating the Waters: Streamers and Strategies in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward

S6, Ep 37 – Streamer Secrets and Dry Fly Dreams with East Tennessee's Ellis Ward

S6, Ep 142 – Winter Musky Adventures and Streamer Tactics with Ellis Ward

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Ellis and Flyzotics on Instagram.

Follow Ellis on YouTube.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In this Central PA Fishing Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop in State College, Pennsylvania for a late-winter conditions update. George covers current water levels and clarity across several iconic Centre County streams — including the Juniata River, Spring Creek, Fishing Creek and Penns Creek — as heavy snowmelt pushes flows up and drops visibility. Despite the off-color, elevated conditions, George is optimistic: a few Blue-Winged Olives have already been spotted, nymphing has been consistent and a full late-winter/early-spring insect emergence looks imminent in the next two to three weeks. Anglers planning trips to Central PA trout water should temp the streams before wading — air temps in the mid-40s can be deceiving when snowmelt is actively cold-charging the system. The conversation also covers TCO's upcoming presence at the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show, a packed class schedule across all shop locations through early spring and a first look at the new Grundéns Rock Armor wading boots, which TCO is among the first retailers to stock before they're even live on the Grundéns website.

Key Takeaways

1. How to set expectations for Central PA streams in late winter when heavy snowmelt is elevating flows and dropping clarity across multiple watersheds.
2. Why water temperature can be unusually cold even when air temps feel mild, and why checking water temp before wading is essential during active snowmelt events.
3. When to plan your Central PA dry fly trips: George signals the Blue-Winged Olive hatch is weeks away from breaking wide open.
4. How to use the pre-season window productively by attending TCO's late-winter fly fishing classes across their Pennsylvania shop locations.
5. Why the new Grundéns Rock Armor boots are worth watching, with TCO among the earliest retailers to have them in stock.

Techniques & Gear Covered

Nymphing is the dominant tactic for Central PA trout during the current late-winter/snowmelt window, with George noting it has been consistent despite not yet reaching its seasonal peak. The conversation anticipates a shift toward dry fly fishing as water temperatures rise and the Blue-Winged Olive hatch accelerates over the next few weeks — a classic late-winter to early-spring transition for Pennsylvania limestone streams. On the gear side, the notable mention is the new Grundéns Rock Armor wading boots, which TCO Fly Shop in State College is stocking ahead of the general retail release; no other specific rod, reel or fly patterns were discussed in this report segment.

Locations & Species

This episode focuses entirely on Central Pennsylvania limestone and freestone trout streams in late winter. The primary waters discussed are the Juniata River (elevated and off-color from snowmelt), Spring Creek, Fishing Creek and Penns Creek — all experiencing increased flows and reduced clarity as the snowpack drains into the watershed. Target species are wild brown trout and rainbow trout, consistent with the Central PA catch-and-release freestone and limestone spring creek fisheries. Conditions reflect a classic late-February snowmelt transition: still cold, flows running above seasonal averages, but with early insect activity signaling the imminent arrival of prime spring fishing.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

What are current Central PA stream conditions in late winter?

Multiple key streams including the Juniata River, Spring Creek, Fishing Creek and Penns Creek are running elevated and off-color due to heavy snowmelt. George Costa describes conditions as typical late-winter, with flows expected to continue rising over the following days as the snowpack drains.

Why should anglers check water temperature before fishing during snowmelt?

Even when air temperatures are in the mid-40s°F, active snowmelt introduces very cold water into streams, suppressing fish metabolism and activity. George recommends tempering expectations and checking actual water temp before committing to a wade, as the water can be significantly colder than the air suggests.

When will dry fly fishing pick up on Central Pennsylvania trout streams?

George spotted the first Blue-Winged Olives of the season just before the report and anticipates the hatch breaking open meaningfully within two to three weeks as water temperatures rise. Anglers should keep calendars clear for late-February into March.

How has nymphing been performing during the late-winter period in Central PA?

Nymphing has been consistent but not exceptional, which is normal for the late-winter pre-hatch window. George expects a significant improvement in fishing across the board as conditions warm and bug activity increases.

Where can anglers take fly fishing classes at TCO Fly Shop before the spring season?

TCO Fly Shop has classes running through early spring at their State College location and all other Pennsylvania stores. Details and registration are available at tcoflyfishing.com, and TCO will also have a presence at the upcoming Lancaster Fly Fishing Show.

Related Content

S6, Ep 30 - Central Pennsylvania Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop

S6, Ep 48 - Rain or Shine: Central PA's Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop

S7, Ep 36 - Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop

S5, Ep 145 - Central Pennsylvania Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop

Connect with Our Guest

Follow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In this episode of The Articulate Fly podcast, host Marvin Cash catches up with master casting instructor Mac Brown for another installment of Casting Angles — a recurring segment dedicated to fly casting education and the business of fly fishing instruction. Recorded just after Mac returned from back-to-back appearances at the Denver and Bellevue stops of the Fly Fishing Show, the conversation covers his experience on the road, a spontaneous three-day steelhead spey fishing trip squeezed between shows and what's ahead on the Fly Fishing Show calendar. Mac and Marvin dig into the practical value of two-handed casting techniques on single-handed rods — particularly for tight Appalachian streams and summertime smallmouth fishing on rivers like the Little Tennessee, Pigeon and Tuckaseegee. Mac makes a compelling case that mastering the roll cast and a module of switch/spey casts (snake roll, snap T, snap C, Z cast, A cast) transforms an angler's ability to present flies on any water, not just big steelhead rivers. The episode wraps with late-winter fishing observations, a teaser about the upcoming Lancaster Fly Fishing Show and a reminder that Mac's guide schools, casting schools and specialty classes are bookable on his website.

Key Takeaways

1. How to expand your presentation options on tight Appalachian streams by adding spey and switch casts to your single-handed rod repertoire.
2. Why the roll cast is the essential foundation of all two-handed casting, and why building it first unlocks the entire spey/switch toolkit.
3. How to use two-handed delivery moves — snake rolls, snap Ts, Z casts and others — for summertime smallmouth fishing.
4. When to capitalize on late-winter warmup windows by monitoring water temperatures, even when air temps feel comfortable for trout fishing.
5. Why fishing from the tail of a long pool with two-handed casting techniques gives you a longer drift, better positioning and keeps big fish unaware of your presence.

Techniques & Gear Covered

Mac Brown covers the full spectrum of spey and switch casting moves applicable to single-handed rods, including the roll cast, snake roll, snap T, snap C, Z cast and A cast — what he describes as a "module of eight or nine" setup-and-deliver sequences that, once internalized, become intuitive rather than mechanical. A key theme is translating techniques typically practiced on grass into real fishing scenarios: managing 50–60 feet of shooting line in your fingers, reading pool geometry and making decisions about river-left vs. river-right presentations coming out of winter. Mac also references the two-day and three-day specialty casting schools he runs throughout the season — focused formats on wet fly and dry fly specifically — available through his website under specialty classes. No specific fly patterns or rod brands are mentioned in this episode, keeping the focus squarely on casting mechanics and tactical decision-making.

Locations & Species

The episode references several western North Carolina rivers as prime proving grounds for switch and spey techniques on single-handed rods, including Deep Creek, the Davidson River, the Little Tennessee ("Little T"), the Pigeon River and the Tuckaseegee River. These waters illustrate how Appalachian freestone and tailwater streams — often dismissed as "small water" — actually demand long presentations across pools that run 60–70 feet from tail to head. Target species include trout (primarily late-winter/early-spring tailwater trout as conditions warm) and summertime smallmouth bass on the region's larger freestone rivers. Marvin also mentions fishing for steelhead on "the Alley" (the Lake Erie tribs in Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York) en route to the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show, adding a steelhead context that reinforces Mac's recent spey fishing experience in the Pacific Northwest.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How can two-handed casting techniques improve my fishing on small Appalachian streams?

Mac Brown explains that many classic Appalachian pools run 60–70 feet from tail to head, which requires longer casts than most anglers expect. By learning spey and switch casts on a single-handed rod, you can position yourself at the tail of a pool, cover the entire pool with precise presentations, gain a longer natural drift and keep large trout unaware of your presence — all without back-casting room.

What is the best starting point for learning spey and switch casting?

According to Mac, the roll cast is the foundational "get out of jail free card" of fly casting and the essential gateway to all spey and switch moves. Anglers often underestimate the roll cast because their overhead cast feels stronger, but once the roll cast is dialed in, the setup-and-deliver logic of the full spey/switch toolkit becomes accessible and rewarding.

When is the right time to fish late-winter trout in the southern Appalachians?

Marvin and Mac both note that warming air temperatures in late winter don't automatically mean fish are active — water temperature is the real indicator. The advice is to take advantage of warmer days (40–65°F air temps) that follow prolonged cold snaps, check water temps before committing and expect elevated fish activity when a genuine warmup follows an extended deep freeze.

How do two-handed casting techniques translate to smallmouth bass fishing?

Mac confirms that spey and switch casts are highly effective for summertime smallmouth fishing on rivers like the Little Tennessee, Pigeon and Tuckaseegee. Figure-of-eights, snake rolls and snap Ts are all applicable, particularly where overhanging trees and river bends limit back-cast room — exactly the conditions that characterize southern Appalachian smallmouth water.

What casting programs does Mac Brown offer for serious anglers?

Mac offers a range of programs through Mac Brown Fly Fish, including five-day guide schools, two- and three-day weekend casting schools (including specialty formats focused exclusively on wet fly or dry fly) and single-session casting lessons. Weekend scheduling is intentional — designed for anglers who can't take weekday time off work — and upcoming show appearances (Pleasanton, CA and Lancaster, PA) include all-day casting classes as well.

Related Content

S7, Ep 16 – Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 20 – Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S6, Ep 141 – Mastering Cold Weather Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 54 – Chasing Smallmouth: Topwater Tactics for Summer Success with Jake Villwock

S7, Ep 28 – Warming Waters and Active Fish: A Spring Fishing Update with Mac Brown

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Episode Overview

In this episode of The Articulate Fly podcast, host Marvin Cash catches up with master casting instructor Mac Brown for another installment of Casting Angles — a recurring segment dedicated to fly casting education and the business of fly fishing instruction. Recorded just after Mac returned from back-to-back appearances at the Denver and Bellevue stops of the Fly Fishing Show, the conversation covers his experience on the road, a spontaneous three-day steelhead spey fishing trip squeezed between shows and what's ahead on the Fly Fishing Show calendar. Mac and Marvin dig into the practical value of two-handed casting techniques on single-handed rods — particularly for tight Appalachian streams and summertime smallmouth fishing on rivers like the Little Tennessee, Pigeon and Tuckaseegee. Mac makes a compelling case that mastering the roll cast and a module of switch/spey casts (snake roll, snap T, snap C, Z cast, A cast) transforms an angler's ability to present flies on any water, not just big steelhead rivers. The episode wraps with late-winter fishing observations, a teaser about the upcoming Lancaster Fly Fishing Show and a reminder that Mac's guide schools, casting schools and specialty classes are bookable on his website.

Key Takeaways

1. How to expand your presentation options on tight Appalachian streams by adding spey and switch casts to your single-handed rod repertoire.
2. Why the roll cast is the essential foundation of all two-handed casting, and why building it first unlocks the entire spey/switch toolkit.
3. How to use two-handed delivery moves — snake rolls, snap Ts, Z casts and others — for summertime smallmouth fishing.
4. When to capitalize on late-winter warmup windows by monitoring water temperatures, even when air temps feel comfortable for trout fishing.
5. Why fishing from the tail of a long pool with two-handed casting techniques gives you a longer drift, better positioning and keeps big fish unaware of your presence.

Techniques & Gear Covered

Mac Brown covers the full spectrum of spey and switch casting moves applicable to single-handed rods, including the roll cast, snake roll, snap T, snap C, Z cast and A cast — what he describes as a "module of eight or nine" setup-and-deliver sequences that, once internalized, become intuitive rather than mechanical. A key theme is translating techniques typically practiced on grass into real fishing scenarios: managing 50–60 feet of shooting line in your fingers, reading pool geometry and making decisions about river-left vs. river-right presentations coming out of winter. Mac also references the two-day and three-day specialty casting schools he runs throughout the season — focused formats on wet fly and dry fly specifically — available through his website under specialty classes. No specific fly patterns or rod brands are mentioned in this episode, keeping the focus squarely on casting mechanics and tactical decision-making.

Locations & Species

The episode references several western North Carolina rivers as prime proving grounds for switch and spey techniques on single-handed rods, including Deep Creek, the Davidson River, the Little Tennessee ("Little T"), the Pigeon River and the Tuckaseegee River. These waters illustrate how Appalachian freestone and tailwater streams — often dismissed as "small water" — actually demand long presentations across pools that run 60–70 feet from tail to head. Target species include trout (primarily late-winter/early-spring tailwater trout as conditions warm) and summertime smallmouth bass on the region's larger freestone rivers. Marvin also mentions fishing for steelhead on "the Alley" (the Lake Erie tribs in Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York) en route to the Lancaster Fly Fishing Show, adding a steelhead context that reinforces Mac's recent spey fishing experience in the Pacific Northwest.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How can two-handed casting techniques improve my fishing on small Appalachian streams?

Mac Brown explains that many classic Appalachian pools run 60–70 feet from tail to head, which requires longer casts than most anglers expect. By learning spey and switch casts on a single-handed rod, you can position yourself at the tail of a pool, cover the entire pool with precise presentations, gain a longer natural drift and keep large trout unaware of your presence — all without back-casting room.

What is the best starting point for learning spey and switch casting?

According to Mac, the roll cast is the foundational "get out of jail free card" of fly casting and the essential gateway to all spey and switch moves. Anglers often underestimate the roll cast because their overhead cast feels stronger, but once the roll cast is dialed in, the setup-and-deliver logic of the full spey/switch toolkit becomes accessible and rewarding.

When is the right time to fish late-winter trout in the southern Appalachians?

Marvin and Mac both note that warming air temperatures in late winter don't automatically mean fish are active — water temperature is the real indicator. The advice is to take advantage of warmer days (40–65°F air temps) that follow prolonged cold snaps, check water temps before committing and expect elevated fish activity when a genuine warmup follows an extended deep freeze.

How do two-handed casting techniques translate to smallmouth bass fishing?

Mac confirms that spey and switch casts are highly effective for summertime smallmouth fishing on rivers like the Little Tennessee, Pigeon and Tuckaseegee. Figure-of-eights, snake rolls and snap Ts are all applicable, particularly where overhanging trees and river bends limit back-cast room — exactly the conditions that characterize southern Appalachian smallmouth water.

What casting programs does Mac Brown offer for serious anglers?

Mac offers a range of programs through Mac Brown Fly Fish, including five-day guide schools, two- and three-day weekend casting schools (including specialty formats focused exclusively on wet fly or dry fly) and single-session casting lessons. Weekend scheduling is intentional — designed for anglers who can't take weekday time off work — and upcoming show appearances (Pleasanton, CA and Lancaster, PA) include all-day casting classes as well.

Related Content

S7, Ep 16 – Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 20 – Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S6, Ep 141 – Mastering Cold Weather Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 54 – Chasing Smallmouth: Topwater Tactics for Summer Success with Jake Villwock

S7, Ep 28 – Warming Waters and Active Fish: A Spring Fishing Update with Mac Brown

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow the Show

Follow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.

Support the Show

Shop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.

Join our Patreon community to support the show.

If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.

Subscribe & Advertise

Subscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.

Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In this Southwest Virginia Fishing Report from The Articulate Fly podcast, guide Matt Reilly discusses late January/early February winter conditions on the New River and tactical considerations for musky anglers navigating frozen water and seasonal transitions. Reilly details how 6 to 9 inches of snowfall combined with sub-freezing temperatures have kept the New River frozen for nearly two weeks, creating challenging access conditions while fish hold in predictable winter lies. The report covers ice safety protocols for anglers working from boats during breakup periods, identifies which river sections will thaw first based on gradient and sun exposure and explains how snowmelt from the western North Carolina headwaters will buffer water temperature rises even as air temperatures climb into the upper 40s and low 50s. Reilly also provides booking updates for the tail end of musky season extending into early March, pre-spawn smallmouth opportunities in March and April, the spring striper run and post-spawn musky fishing, emphasizing that winter downtime offers anglers ideal conditions for planning technical trips targeting these species throughout the New River system.

Key Takeaways

1. How to navigate ice safety when fishing from a boat during river breakup, including avoiding large ice sheets and maintaining situational awareness for floating ice hazards.
2. Why lower New River sections near Claytor Lake thaw first due to wider channels, direct sun exposure and lower elevation compared to shaded upper watershed areas.
3. When snowmelt from 6 to 9 inches of accumulated snow in the western North Carolina headwaters will create increased flows that buffer water temperature rises during early February warm-ups.
4. How to identify productive open water during marginal freezing conditions by targeting faster gradient sections and areas with warm water influence.
5. Why late winter offers optimal planning windows for booking pre-spawn smallmouth trips in March and April, spring striper runs and extended musky season dates into early March.

Techniques & Gear Covered

This report focuses on tactical decision-making for winter musky fishing and seasonal transitions rather than specific presentation techniques. Reilly discusses how fish remain in predictable winter holding locations during prolonged freezing periods, requiring anglers to understand hydrological patterns and ice coverage to access productive water safely. The conversation emphasizes reading watershed dynamics during thaw periods, identifying which river sections will open first based on gradient, sun exposure and proximity to warm water sources like dam releases. Anglers targeting the late musky season extending into early March will need to adapt to post-freeze conditions where snowmelt increases flows while moderating temperature rises, creating transitional windows that precede pre-spawn smallmouth opportunities in the same system.

Locations & Species

The report centers on the New River in Southwest Virginia, particularly sections from the western North Carolina headwaters near Mount Rogers through the lower New River approaching Claytor Lake. Primary target species include musky during the extended late winter season through early March and smallmouth bass during the pre-spawn period beginning in March and continuing through April. Reilly also mentions spring striper runs and post-spawn musky fishing as key seasonal opportunities. The late January/early February conditions feature frozen water throughout most of the river, with lower sections near Claytor Lake expected to thaw first due to wider channels and greater sun exposure, while upper watershed areas remain icebound longer because of higher elevation, narrower channels and increased shading from surrounding mountains.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How do you stay safe when fishing around ice during river breakup?

Avoid fishing when large ice sheets are moving downstream with no clear path around them. By the time water is fishable, ice should be broken into smaller pieces that can be circumnavigated, but remain alert because anchored boats can be struck unexpectedly by floating ice. If conditions seem risky during late winter, they usually are a bad idea, and jet boats face additional hazards from ice impacts.

Which sections of the New River thaw first after prolonged freezing?

Lower New River sections closer to Claytor Lake generally open first because wider channels receive direct sun exposure for longer periods throughout the day, while upper watershed areas remain frozen longer due to higher elevation, narrower channels and increased shading from taller surrounding mountains. Faster gradient sections with quickly moving water also tend to freeze last and thaw first.

How does snowmelt affect fishing conditions during late winter warm-ups?

When 6 to 9 inches of accumulated snow begins melting from the western North Carolina headwaters near Mount Rogers, it creates increased river flows while simultaneously buffering water temperature rises because cold melt water mixes with warming conditions. This creates a transitional period where anglers must account for higher flows and moderated temperatures even as air temperatures reach the upper 40s and low 50s.

When does pre-spawn smallmouth fishing begin on the New River?

Pre-spawn smallmouth opportunities typically begin in March and continue through early April, with Matt Reilly transitioning from extended musky season trips by approximately March 10th.

What booking opportunities are available for musky fishing after severe winter weather?

Matt Reilly extends musky season into early March when severe cold weather in late January/early February pushes trips out of the normal season window. Late winter downtime when guides are off frozen water provides ideal conditions for planning and booking trips, as response times are fast and detailed trip configurations can be discussed thoroughly.

Related Content

S6, Ep 146 - Musky Mysteries: Winter Tactics and Fly Tying Tips with Matt Reilly

S7, Ep 1 - Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt Reilly

S7, Ep 19 - Weathering the Winds: March Fishing Insights and Pre-Spawn Strategies with Matt Reilly

S6, Ep 33 - Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt Reilly

All Things Social Media

Follow Matt on Instagram.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Support the Show

Shop on Amazon

Become a Patreon Patron

Subscribe to the Podcast

Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.

Advertise on the Podcast

Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?

Check out our consulting options!

Mac Brown joins host Marvin Cash for this Casting Angles episode of The Articulate Fly, a fly fishing podcast focused on practical instruction and technique refinement. With winter weather keeping many anglers off the water across the mid-Atlantic and southern Appalachians, Mac and Marvin discuss how to use this downtime productively by organizing gear and preparing equipment for the upcoming season. The conversation covers essential off-season maintenance tasks including line cleaning, wader re-treating, fly box reorganization and boot cleat maintenance. Mac shares his custom tippet management system that prevents fumbling for tippet in freezing conditions and emphasizes the importance of getting fly weight systems dialed in before prime fishing returns. The discussion also touches on the transition from winter's deep freeze to early spring fishing opportunities, with Quill Gordon hatches beginning as early as mid-February on National Park streams and post-spawn streamer fishing on tailwaters like the South Holston and Watauga. This episode provides a comprehensive checklist for serious anglers to ensure their gear is ready when weather breaks and fishing conditions improve.

Key Takeaways

1. How to organize fly boxes by weight and technique during the off-season to streamline on-water efficiency when the season begins.
2. Why washing and re-treating waders now prevents cutting into prime fishing time during peak spring hatches.
3. How to create a reliable tippet management system using elastic and clear tubing so you never struggle to find the tippet end in cold conditions.
4. When to expect the earliest hatches in the southern Appalachians, with Quill Gordons appearing in mid-February on National Park streams.
5. Why the first warm day after extended cold spells consistently produces excellent fishing as water temperatures rise from the mid-30s.

Techniques & Gear Covered

Mac emphasizes moving away from traditional split shot systems because mashing lead onto tippet significantly weakens the tippet when wet, instead favoring organized weight systems built into flies. The discussion covers comprehensive line cleaning protocols for multiple setups, particularly for lake fishing applications where having several lines ready prevents last-minute scrambling. Mac details his custom tippet management method using elastic and clear tubing (similar to New Zealand strike indicator material) that keeps 2 inches of tippet exposed and prevents the frustrating search for the tippet end when fingers are numb. Boot maintenance receives attention with the recommendation to install fresh 5/8-inch sheet metal screws using an eighth-inch driver to maintain traction. The episode also addresses seasonal gear rotation, including moving chemical hand warmers, nitrile gloves and other cold weather gear in and out of fishing kits as conditions change.

Locations & Species

The episode references winter conditions across Charlotte, Swain County and western North Carolina, where snow and single-digit temperatures have kept guides off the water for nearly two weeks. Marvin mentions an upcoming post-spawn brown trout streamer trip on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers near Johnson City, taking advantage of warming trends with temperatures reaching 60 degrees. Mac discusses early-season opportunities on National Park streams in the Smokies, where Quill Gordon hatches begin in the second or third week of February—some of the earliest dry fly action in the country. The conversation also touches on Mac's upcoming winter steelhead trip to swing flies on Oregon's Klamath River. Target species focus primarily on trout, with musky mentioned in the context of mid-Atlantic guides being unable to fish due to harsh winter conditions.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How should anglers organize their fly boxes during the off-season?

Mac recommends organizing by both technique and weight, creating separate boxes for small nymphs, large nymphs, streamers, small dries and large dries. He emphasizes incorporating weight into the flies rather than relying on split shot, which weakens tippet when clamped on. This winter reorganization ensures boxes are ready for March and April fishing without last-minute scrambling.

What's the best tippet management system for cold weather fishing?

Mac developed a system using elastic and clear tubing (like New Zealand strike indicator material) that keeps the tippet end extended about 2 inches from the spool. This prevents the common problem of losing the tippet inside the spool when fingers are cold and numb. The tippet is always accessible and the spool revolves smoothly, eliminating frustration in freezing conditions.

When do the earliest dry fly hatches begin in the southern Appalachians?

According to Mac, Quill Gordons start appearing in the second and third week of February on National Park streams in the Smokies—some of the earliest hatches in the country. These size 10 mayflies emerge when temperatures return to the 40s and 50s after winter cold snaps, often appearing much earlier than anglers expect.

Why is the first warm day after extended cold weather so productive for trout fishing?

Mac explains that when water temperatures drop to the mid-30s during prolonged cold spells, the first day that warms up "really wakes the fish up" and consistently produces excellent fishing. This pattern has proven reliable over his 44 years as an outfitter. The warming trend triggers feeding activity after the metabolic slowdown caused by frigid water.

What off-season maintenance tasks should anglers prioritize?

Beyond fly box organization, Mac and Marvin recommend washing and re-treating waders, cleaning all fly lines, installing fresh sheet metal screws in boots, checking leader and tippet inventories and rotating seasonal items like chemical hand warmers and nitrile gloves. This preparation prevents maintenance tasks from cutting into prime fishing time when hatches begin.

Related Content

S6, Ep 141 - Mastering Cold Weather Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 145 - Navigating Winter Waters: Unconventional Strategies with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 16 - Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S7, Ep 41 - Navigating High Water: Strategies for Success with Mac Brown

All Things Social Media

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Support the Show

Shop on Amazon

Become a Patreon Patron

Subscribe to the Podcast

Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.

Advertise on the Podcast

Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?

Check out our consulting options!

Mike Schultz joins The Butcher Shop to deliver a comprehensive deep dive into the Swingin' D, one of predator fly fishing's most effective swim patterns for targeting smallmouth bass in Michigan rivers. This detailed conversation traces the pattern's evolution from its early 2000s origins through modern 2.0 variations, exploring the critical role of Larry Dahlberg's diver head design in creating the fly's signature side-to-side action. Mike shares the problem he was solving—creating a fly that would hang and move horizontally rather than just vertically like traditional leech and crayfish patterns. He walks through material selection spanning over 15 years of refinement, from the original beads-and-wire construction to today's shank-based articulated designs. The discussion covers tactical presentation details including optimal water temperatures (45-50°F+), rod and intermediate line selection, retrieve cadences and the importance of fishing at proper angles to achieve maximum action. Mike also provides updates on Schultz Outfitters' new e-commerce platform and upcoming events including the fourth annual Bobbin the Hood.

Key Takeaways

1. How to achieve unpredictable horizontal swim action by properly selecting and seating Rainy's diver heads, which create side-to-side darting movement that mimics wounded baitfish when fished at 45-degree angles on intermediate lines.
2. Why the Swingin' D fills a critical gap in predator fly boxes by suspending in the strike zone and allowing precise depth control through strategic weighting with lead wraps or tungsten scud bodies balanced against the buoyant foam head.
3. When to fish the Swingin' D most effectively—peak performance occurs in 45-50°F+ water during late March through May when smallmouth are aggressive and feeding in shallow 2-4 foot zones.
4. How to construct durable 2.0 versions using The Chocklett Factory shanks, Senyo micro shank connections, Ahrex XO 774 rear hooks and Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hooks up front to prevent hook failures and maximize hookups.
5. Why proper head selection and orientation matters—wider heads with substantial collars produce aggressive side-to-side action for cold water while narrower heads swim tighter for warmer conditions.

Techniques & Gear Covered

Mike emphasizes the Swingin' D's effectiveness stems from proper presentation on intermediate lines using 7-8 weight rods like the G. Loomis IMX Pro V2 or his signature NRX+ Swim Fly. The fly excels when fished at 45-degree angles from a moving boat, using erratic strip-and-pause retrieves that allow the Dahlberg diver head to create horizontal darting action. Keeling techniques using .020-.030 lead wire or Hareline tungsten scud bodies balance the buoyant foam head to achieve desired depth penetration. Mike details construction using articulated shanks (The Chocklett Factory, Senyo micro shanks), Ahrex XO 774 universal curve rear hooks and Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hooks up front, incorporating materials like Senyo's Predator Wrap, Whiting hen saddles, mallard flank and Blane Chocklett's rattle boxes. Leaders run 4-7 feet terminating in 15-16lb fluorocarbon tied with loop knots to the fly with no swivels. The pattern's versatility allows customization through flash colors, head widths and weight placement to match conditions ranging from high spring flows to lower summer levels.

Locations & Species

The Swingin' D was developed specifically for Michigan's small to medium-sized rivers where smallmouth bass are the primary target during the critical late March through May peak season. Mike's guiding focuses on shallow water zones of 2-4 feet depth where the fly's horizontal swimming action excels at triggering aggressive strikes. The pattern proves most effective when water temperatures climb from 45°F into the optimal 50-60°F+ range and bass feed actively in current seams, log jams and structure. Pike frequently intercept the fly, necessitating heavy 15-16lb fluorocarbon tippet to prevent bite-offs. While designed for Michigan's specific smallmouth fisheries, the swim fly principles and Dahlberg head mechanics translate to other predator fishing scenarios where anglers need flies that suspend and dart horizontally in the upper water column.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How does the Swingin' D differ from traditional smallmouth patterns?

The Swingin' D fills the gap between vertically jigging flies like leeches and crayfish by incorporating Larry Dahlberg's diver head design, which creates horizontal side-to-side darting action when fished on intermediate lines at proper angles. The foam head provides buoyancy that allows the fly to suspend and hang in the strike zone, while strategic weighting controls depth. This mimics wounded baitfish behavior that triggers aggressive strikes, particularly during the peak spring season when smallmouth are actively feeding in shallow water.

What materials and construction techniques make the modern 2.0 version more durable?

The 2.0 version uses articulated Chocklett Factory and Senyo micro shanks, eliminating the wire-kinking problems of original beads-and-wire construction. Rear hooks switched from the B10S (which bends out easily) to the Ahrex XO 774 universal curve in sizes 2-4, while the front maintains the reliable Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hook. Materials include Senyo's Predator Wrap or translucy brushes, Whiting hen saddles, mallard flank and Blane Chocklett's new rattle boxes which seat more securely than traditional glass rattles. Liberal use of Wapsi brushable super glue throughout construction creates indestructible flies that survive multiple fish and wood contacts.

When is the optimal time and water temperature to fish the Swingin' D?

While the Swingin' D can catch fish as cold as 40-45°F, peak effectiveness begins when water temperatures reach 50°F and above, typically during the third to fourth week of April in Michigan. The prime window runs from late March through May into early June—Michigan's peak smallmouth season—when water levels are still elevated but warming and bass are aggressive. In February's coldest water, traditional leeches and peanuts outperform swim patterns, but as temperatures climb into the 45-50°F range, the Swingin' D's horizontal action becomes increasingly deadly.

How should anglers weight and balance the Swingin' D for different conditions?

Balancing the buoyant foam head with proper weight achieves desired depth and swim action. For immediate water penetration, wrap .020-.030 lead wire (10 wraps of .025 is a good starting point) on the front Gamakatsu 2/0 hook bend, then coat with flexible resin like RaidZap or Solarez to protect it and allow on-stream adjustments by breaking away sections. For heavier applications in deeper or faster water, Hareline's tungsten scud and shrimp bodies in small or medium sizes provide concentrated weight while maintaining the fly's suspended character. The goal is creating a fly that dives quickly on the strip but hangs and suspends on the pause, maintaining position in the 2-4 foot strike zone where Michigan smallmouth feed most aggressively.

What rod, line and leader setup works best for presenting the Swingin' D?

Mike recommends 7-8 weight rods designed specifically for streamers, particularly the G. Loomis IMX Pro V2 (his most popular client rod at $595) or his signature NRX+ Swim Fly, both 8'10" in length with tips engineered to animate swim flies effectively rather than throw floating lines like traditional saltwater rods. Pair these with intermediate sinking lines—Airflo Sniper Four Season fast intermediate or SA Titan Full intermediate. Hand-tied leaders run 4-7 feet (shorter for less experienced anglers, longer for advanced casters) terminating in 15-16lb fluorocarbon, with Mike favoring Hatch's pike-resistant fluorocarbon tied to the fly with a loop knot. No swivels are necessary if the head is seated properly and straight, which eliminates line twist issues.

Sponsors

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

Related Content

S1, Ep 97 - All Things Smallmouth with Mike Schultz

S7, Ep 33 - Nut Jobs and Chimichangas: A PA Smallmouth Update with Brendan Ruch

S7, Ep 1 - Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt Reilly

S6, Ep 97 - Fly Fishing Wisdom and...]]>Episode Overview

Mike Schultz joins The Butcher Shop to deliver a comprehensive deep dive into the Swingin' D, one of predator fly fishing's most effective swim patterns for targeting smallmouth bass in Michigan rivers. This detailed conversation traces the pattern's evolution from its early 2000s origins through modern 2.0 variations, exploring the critical role of Larry Dahlberg's diver head design in creating the fly's signature side-to-side action. Mike shares the problem he was solving—creating a fly that would hang and move horizontally rather than just vertically like traditional leech and crayfish patterns. He walks through material selection spanning over 15 years of refinement, from the original beads-and-wire construction to today's shank-based articulated designs. The discussion covers tactical presentation details including optimal water temperatures (45-50°F+), rod and intermediate line selection, retrieve cadences and the importance of fishing at proper angles to achieve maximum action. Mike also provides updates on Schultz Outfitters' new e-commerce platform and upcoming events including the fourth annual Bobbin the Hood.

Key Takeaways

1. How to achieve unpredictable horizontal swim action by properly selecting and seating Rainy's diver heads, which create side-to-side darting movement that mimics wounded baitfish when fished at 45-degree angles on intermediate lines.
2. Why the Swingin' D fills a critical gap in predator fly boxes by suspending in the strike zone and allowing precise depth control through strategic weighting with lead wraps or tungsten scud bodies balanced against the buoyant foam head.
3. When to fish the Swingin' D most effectively—peak performance occurs in 45-50°F+ water during late March through May when smallmouth are aggressive and feeding in shallow 2-4 foot zones.
4. How to construct durable 2.0 versions using The Chocklett Factory shanks, Senyo micro shank connections, Ahrex XO 774 rear hooks and Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hooks up front to prevent hook failures and maximize hookups.
5. Why proper head selection and orientation matters—wider heads with substantial collars produce aggressive side-to-side action for cold water while narrower heads swim tighter for warmer conditions.

Techniques & Gear Covered

Mike emphasizes the Swingin' D's effectiveness stems from proper presentation on intermediate lines using 7-8 weight rods like the G. Loomis IMX Pro V2 or his signature NRX+ Swim Fly. The fly excels when fished at 45-degree angles from a moving boat, using erratic strip-and-pause retrieves that allow the Dahlberg diver head to create horizontal darting action. Keeling techniques using .020-.030 lead wire or Hareline tungsten scud bodies balance the buoyant foam head to achieve desired depth penetration. Mike details construction using articulated shanks (The Chocklett Factory, Senyo micro shanks), Ahrex XO 774 universal curve rear hooks and Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hooks up front, incorporating materials like Senyo's Predator Wrap, Whiting hen saddles, mallard flank and Blane Chocklett's rattle boxes. Leaders run 4-7 feet terminating in 15-16lb fluorocarbon tied with loop knots to the fly with no swivels. The pattern's versatility allows customization through flash colors, head widths and weight placement to match conditions ranging from high spring flows to lower summer levels.

Locations & Species

The Swingin' D was developed specifically for Michigan's small to medium-sized rivers where smallmouth bass are the primary target during the critical late March through May peak season. Mike's guiding focuses on shallow water zones of 2-4 feet depth where the fly's horizontal swimming action excels at triggering aggressive strikes. The pattern proves most effective when water temperatures climb from 45°F into the optimal 50-60°F+ range and bass feed actively in current seams, log jams and structure. Pike frequently intercept the fly, necessitating heavy 15-16lb fluorocarbon tippet to prevent bite-offs. While designed for Michigan's specific smallmouth fisheries, the swim fly principles and Dahlberg head mechanics translate to other predator fishing scenarios where anglers need flies that suspend and dart horizontally in the upper water column.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How does the Swingin' D differ from traditional smallmouth patterns?

The Swingin' D fills the gap between vertically jigging flies like leeches and crayfish by incorporating Larry Dahlberg's diver head design, which creates horizontal side-to-side darting action when fished on intermediate lines at proper angles. The foam head provides buoyancy that allows the fly to suspend and hang in the strike zone, while strategic weighting controls depth. This mimics wounded baitfish behavior that triggers aggressive strikes, particularly during the peak spring season when smallmouth are actively feeding in shallow water.

What materials and construction techniques make the modern 2.0 version more durable?

The 2.0 version uses articulated Chocklett Factory and Senyo micro shanks, eliminating the wire-kinking problems of original beads-and-wire construction. Rear hooks switched from the B10S (which bends out easily) to the Ahrex XO 774 universal curve in sizes 2-4, while the front maintains the reliable Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hook. Materials include Senyo's Predator Wrap or translucy brushes, Whiting hen saddles, mallard flank and Blane Chocklett's new rattle boxes which seat more securely than traditional glass rattles. Liberal use of Wapsi brushable super glue throughout construction creates indestructible flies that survive multiple fish and wood contacts.

When is the optimal time and water temperature to fish the Swingin' D?

While the Swingin' D can catch fish as cold as 40-45°F, peak effectiveness begins when water temperatures reach 50°F and above, typically during the third to fourth week of April in Michigan. The prime window runs from late March through May into early June—Michigan's peak smallmouth season—when water levels are still elevated but warming and bass are aggressive. In February's coldest water, traditional leeches and peanuts outperform swim patterns, but as temperatures climb into the 45-50°F range, the Swingin' D's horizontal action becomes increasingly deadly.

How should anglers weight and balance the Swingin' D for different conditions?

Balancing the buoyant foam head with proper weight achieves desired depth and swim action. For immediate water penetration, wrap .020-.030 lead wire (10 wraps of .025 is a good starting point) on the front Gamakatsu 2/0 hook bend, then coat with flexible resin like RaidZap or Solarez to protect it and allow on-stream adjustments by breaking away sections. For heavier applications in deeper or faster water, Hareline's tungsten scud and shrimp bodies in small or medium sizes provide concentrated weight while maintaining the fly's suspended character. The goal is creating a fly that dives quickly on the strip but hangs and suspends on the pause, maintaining position in the 2-4 foot strike zone where Michigan smallmouth feed most aggressively.

What rod, line and leader setup works best for presenting the Swingin' D?

Mike recommends 7-8 weight rods designed specifically for streamers, particularly the G. Loomis IMX Pro V2 (his most popular client rod at $595) or his signature NRX+ Swim Fly, both 8'10" in length with tips engineered to animate swim flies effectively rather than throw floating lines like traditional saltwater rods. Pair these with intermediate sinking lines—Airflo Sniper Four Season fast intermediate or SA Titan Full intermediate. Hand-tied leaders run 4-7 feet (shorter for less experienced anglers, longer for advanced casters) terminating in 15-16lb fluorocarbon, with Mike favoring Hatch's pike-resistant fluorocarbon tied to the fly with a loop knot. No swivels are necessary if the head is seated properly and straight, which eliminates line twist issues.

Sponsors

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

Related Content

S1, Ep 97 - All Things Smallmouth with Mike Schultz

S7, Ep 33 - Nut Jobs and Chimichangas: A PA Smallmouth Update with Brendan Ruch

S7, Ep 1 - Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt Reilly

S6, Ep 97 - Fly Fishing Wisdom and Industry Pet Peeves with Greg Senyo

All Things Social Media

Follow Schultz Outfitters on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Support the Show

Shop on Amazon

Become a Patreon Patron

Subscribe to the Podcast

Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.

Advertise on the Podcast

Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?

Check out our consulting options!

Helpful Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

04:23 The Swingin' D Origins

11:52 Enhancements and Innovations

17:28 Evolution of the Swingin' D

30:16 Fly Presentation Techniques

49:02 Upcoming Events and Promotions

Casting instructor Mac Brown joins host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly for another Casting Angles conversation, this time focused on the upcoming Edison Fly Fishing Show and the casting education landscape. This episode offers serious fly anglers essential insights into proper casting fundamentals, debunking common myths about distance casting and the overemphasis on double hauling in favor of loop control and efficiency. Mac and Marvin discuss their collaborative teaching approach at major fly fishing shows including Marlborough and Edison, where Mac teaches alongside legends like Gary Borger and Glenda Powell. The conversation emphasizes foundational casting mechanics that can eliminate 85-90% of common casting problems, the critical importance of systems thinking in fly fishing and the distinction between efficient movement patterns versus exhausting casting movements. Whether you're preparing for saltwater fishing or simply want to cast more efficiently with less effort, this episode provides the framework for building a solid casting foundation that makes learning advanced techniques far easier.

Key Takeaways

1. How to eliminate up to 90% of your casting problems by mastering foundational mechanics rather than chasing advanced techniques like the double haul
2. Why loop control and loop efficiency are the true keys to distance casting, with proper technique often outperforming hauling attempts
3. When to prioritize learning line shooting and efficient loop formation over the overrated double haul
4. How to cast more efficiently by incorporating full arm movement instead of relying on wrist-only casting that leads to fatigue and other issues
5. Why having a systematic process framework prevents anglers from collecting unrelated data points from videos and demos that create more problems than solutions

Techniques & Gear Covered

This episode focuses entirely on casting fundamentals and educational methodology rather than specific gear. Mac and Marvin emphasize loop control, loop efficiency and proper line shooting as the foundation of effective casting. They discuss the importance of power, path and pause, full arm incorporation versus wrist casting and the efficiency of movement patterns. The conversation challenges the American obsession with double hauling, noting that proper roll casting technique can achieve greater distance than poor hauling attempts. For saltwater applications where most fish are caught at 55 feet and closer, mastering these fundamentals proves far more valuable than advanced techniques built on a weak foundation.

Locations & Species

While this episode doesn't focus on specific fisheries or waters, Mac references saltwater fishing applications where understanding realistic casting distances matters most. The discussion acknowledges that the majority of saltwater fish are caught at 55 feet and closer, making efficient short to medium-range casting far more practical than extreme distance work. The conversation takes place in the context of major East Coast fly fishing shows (Marlborough, Massachusetts and Edison, New Jersey) where anglers from across the region gather to improve their skills. Mac's upcoming teaching schedule spans coast to coast, including stops at Bellevue and Lancaster, reflecting the national scope of casting education needs.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

What's more important for distance casting than the double haul?

Loop control and loop efficiency are the true foundations of distance casting. Mac emphasizes that the double haul is overrated in America, with anglers believing it's the "Holy Grail" they're missing. In reality, proper roll casting with efficient loops can outperform average hauling attempts. The key is learning when to shoot line and form efficient loops first, with the double haul only benefiting anglers once those foundational skills are mastered.

How can I cast more efficiently without getting fatigued?

Incorporate your entire arm instead of relying solely on wrist movement. Mac notes that wrist-only casting leads to fatigue, carpal tunnel issues and exhaustion on the water. The efficiency of movement, once anglers understand proper mechanics, makes casting smoother and less physically demanding. Marvin emphasizes letting the rod do the work rather than trying to overpower the cast.

Why do so many anglers struggle despite watching videos and attending demos?

The fly fishing community has failed to provide anglers with complete systems and frameworks. Instead, people collect unrelated data points from internet snippets, YouTube videos and demos without understanding how everything fits together. Mac and Marvin stress the importance of process-oriented thinking with a framework that covers everything from gear preparation to landing fish, rather than isolated techniques that don't connect to a larger system.

What distance should I really be focused on for saltwater fly fishing?

Most saltwater fish are caught at 55 feet and closer. Rather than obsessing over extreme distance casting, anglers should focus on efficient, accurate casts at realistic fishing ranges. This shifts the priority from learning advanced techniques to mastering foundational loop control and line shooting that work effectively at practical distances.

Related Content

S7, Ep 20 - Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques

S7, Ep 16 - Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 10 - Casting Angles with Mac Brown

S6, Ep 141 - Mastering Cold Weather Fly Fishing with Mac Brown

All Things Social Media

Follow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Support the Show

Shop on Amazon

Become a Patreon Patron

Subscribe to the Podcast

Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.

Advertise on the Podcast

Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?

Check out our consulting options!

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Tim Flagler to explore his lesser-known culinary journey and preview his extensive 2026 hosted travel schedule. While most fly fishers recognize Tim from his renowned tying videos and work at Tightline Productions, this conversation reveals his parallel passion for cooking and food that parallels his fly tying expertise. The discussion traces Tim's evolution from childhood family meals at the Jersey Shore through his mother's and grandmother's influence to his current fascination with Asian cooking techniques, particularly Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine. Tim shares cooking philosophy centered on sourcing quality ingredients, constant tasting during preparation and proper knife skills while detailing his upcoming 2026 adventures including golden dorado fishing on Argentina's Ibera Marsh, trophy brown trout on the Limay River, northern pike and bull trout in British Columbia's Northern Rockies and steelhead on Lake Erie. The conversation also touches on Tim's ongoing fly tying innovations focused on creating mottled, natural-looking patterns that better imitate the mottled appearance of living aquatic insects.

Key Takeaways

1. How Tim's family food traditions at the Jersey Shore mirror the collaborative, process-driven approach he brings to fly tying and teaching
2. Why sourcing the best possible ingredients and tasting constantly throughout preparation are the two most critical elements of successful cooking
3. How to book Tim's 2026 hosted trips to Argentina for golden dorado and trophy brown trout, British Columbia for northern pike and bull trout or Lake Erie for winter steelhead
4. How Tim is incorporating mottled, multi-colored patterns in his fly designs to better imitate the natural mottled appearance of living aquatic insects that signals protein to feeding trout

Techniques & Gear Covered

Tim discusses his ongoing fly tying evolution focused on creating mottled appearances in patterns rather than solid single colors, based on close observation and video documentation of living aquatic macroinvertebrates. He explains how blotches of different colors signal life and protein to feeding fish, making these techniques potentially more effective than traditional solid-colored flies. The conversation touches on trout spey casting as one of Tim's seminar topics at upcoming Fly Fishing Shows. Tim also draws parallels between cooking and fly tying, emphasizing that both crafts require quality materials, proper tools (sharp knives in cooking, quality hackle and partridge in tying) and understanding fundamental techniques before attempting complex work.

Locations & Species

Tim's 2026 hosted travel schedule spans diverse fisheries across multiple continents targeting various species. In Argentina, he hosts trips to the Ibera Marsh for golden dorado, classic Patagonia rivers including the Chimehuin, Collon Cura and Limay for trout, and a six-day camping float on the Limay River targeting trophy brown trout. His North American destinations include Spruce Creek in Pennsylvania, the Kootenai River in northwest Montana for rainbows, British Columbia's Northern Rockies for northern pike, bull trout, lake trout, rainbows and grayling with four fly-outs during the week, and Lake Erie tributaries for steelhead during winter. These trips span April through late fall, offering opportunities from early season trout through late-season steelhead in varied water types from spring creeks to wilderness rivers.

FAQ / Key Questions Answered

How did Tim develop his culinary skills beyond basic family cooking?

Tim's mother was an intuitive cook who didn't rely on recipes but understood ingredient combinations and seasoning, providing his foundational training. His older brother worked as a chef at Jersey Shore seafood restaurants and became a major influence, along with the brother's chef friends. Tim spent summers as a teenager cooking collaboratively with friends at the Jersey Shore, experimenting with whatever ingredients were available and learning through trial and constant tasting.

What cooking philosophy does Tim recommend for anglers wanting to improve their skills?

Start simple with repeatable recipes rather than attempting overly complex dishes, similar to learning a pheasant tail nymph before a full-dressed Atlantic salmon fly. Focus on sourcing the best possible ingredients, use proper sharp knives for different applications, taste constantly throughout the cooking process and avoid non-stick cookware in favor of carbon steel, stainless or cast iron. Tim emphasizes that getting quality ingredients and trying not to mess them up is the key to great cooking.

What fly tying innovations is Tim currently developing?

Tim is incorporating mottled color patterns in his flies based on close observation and video documentation of living aquatic macroinvertebrates. He noticed that natural insects display blotches of different colors rather than solid single hues, and this mottled appearance signals life and protein to feeding fish. He's developing techniques to create this mottled look in his patterns, which he believes represents the next evolutionary step toward more natural and effective fly designs.

What hosted travel opportunities does Tim offer for 2026?

Tim has limited openings remaining for April golden dorado fishing on Argentina's Ibera Marsh and a six-day Limay River camping float for trophy brown trout. His trips also include classic Patagonia trout rivers, Spruce Creek Pennsylvania throughout the season, Montana's Kootenai River, two weeks in British Columbia's Northern Rockies for pike, bull trout, lake trout and grayling with wilderness fly-outs, and five-day Lake Erie steelhead trips. Most trips are substantially booked but interested anglers should contact Tightline Productions for current availability.

Sponsors

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

Related Content

S6, Ep 132 - Fly Tying and Destination Travel with Tim Flagler

S7, Ep 2 - Nomadic Waters and the Allure of Amazonian Peacock Bass

S6, Ep 97 - Fly Fishing Wisdom and Industry Pet Peeves with Greg Senyo

S4, Ep 4 - Matt O'Neal of Savage Flies

All Things Social Media

Follow Tim on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Support the Show

Shop on Amazon

Become a Patreon Patron

Subscribe to the Podcast

Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.

Advertise on the Podcast

Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?

Check out our consulting options!

Helpful Episode]]>Episode Overview

In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Tim Flagler to explore his lesser-known culinary journey and preview his extensive 2026 hosted travel schedule. While most fly fishers recognize Tim from his renowned tying videos and work at Tightline Productions, this conversation reveals his parallel passion for cooking and food that parallels his fly tying expertise. The discussion traces Tim's evolution from childhood family meals at the Jersey Shore through his mother's and grandmother's influence to his current fascination with Asian cooking techniques, particularly Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine. Tim shares cooking philosophy centered on sourcing quality ingredients, constant tasting during preparation and proper knife skills while detailing his upcoming 2026 adventures including golden dorado fishing on Argentina's Ibera Marsh, trophy brown trout on the Limay River, northern pike and bull trout in British Columbia's Northern Rockies and steelhead on Lake Erie. The conversation also touches on Tim's ongoing fly tying innovations focused on creating mottled, natural-looking patterns that better imitate the mottled appearance of living aquatic insects.

Key Takeaways

1. How Tim's family food traditions at the Jersey Shore mirror the collaborative, process-driven approach he brings to fly tying and teaching
2. Why sourcing the best possible ingredients and tasting constantly throughout preparation are the two most critical elements of successful cooking
3. How to book Tim's 2026 hosted trips to Argentina for golden dorado and trophy brown trout, British Columbia for northern pike and bull trout or Lake Erie for winter steelhead
4. How Tim is incorporating mottled, multi-colored patterns in his fly designs to better imitate the natural mottled appearance of living aquatic insects that signals protein to feeding trout