Lake Trout 101: Finding, Catching, and Fighting These Monsters on the Fly
We recently caught up with Teddy ( 7ft_3wt ) who shared his deep passion for Lake Trout fishing. He’s been chasing these heavy hitters on the fly rod for years, and his experiences bring a fresh perspective on what makes the fight of a Lake Trout so unique. In this interview, we dive into the best ways to find, catch, and land these massive fish, plus the gear and flies that work wonders for these cold-water beasts.
“The Fish Thief”: Uncovering the Great Lakes’ Biggest Mystery
A gripping new documentary, THE FISH THIEF: A Great Lakes Mystery, narrated by Oscar-winning actor J.K. Simmons, is set to premiere on January 31, 2025. This powerful film explores the near-catastrophic collapse of the Great Lakes fishery, the largest freshwater ecosystem in the world, and the relentless efforts to uncover and address its cause.
3 Key Tips for Tying Realistic Flies from Wes Penny of @flamelilyflies
We recently caught up with Wes Penny of @flamelilyflies, a passionate fly tier whose journey began in Zimbabwe and has taken him across the globe. After a career in policing, he found a new calling in fly tying, blending creativity with function. In this interview, we dive into his techniques, favorite materials, and the inspiration behind his unique patterns. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your fly tying to the next level, his insights are sure to inspire.
Montana’s Smith River Faces Uncertain Future as Supreme Court Backs Mining Permit
In a decision that has drawn widespread concern among Montana fly anglers and conservtionist, the Montana Supreme Court has upheld the water-use permit granted to Sandfire Resources by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. This decision paves the way for the controversial Black Butte Copper Mine in Meagher County, which plans on pumping and impounding substantial amounts of groundwater—up to 457 acre-feet annually—to facilitate its operations.
Capturing the Perfect Moment: 3 Tips for Combining Fly Fishing with Content Creation
Phil’s journey from fisheries biology to fly fishing content creator is a seamless blend of passion, expertise, and storytelling. With over 20 years of fly fishing experience and a natural knack for videography, Phil captures breathtaking moments on the water, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the world of fly fishing. In this interview, he shares his tips for perfecting the art of fishing and filming, offering valuable insights for aspiring content creators looking to elevate their game.
How to Choose the Right Leader Length : Fly Fishing for Beginners
What's up, fishy friends, Trent Jones here with Fly Life Media, and today I'm diving into a topic that can make or break your day on the water: the length of your leader. Yeah, I’ve heard it all before—“The leader doesn’t matter as long as you’ve got the right fly”—but let me tell you, that’s not exactly true. In my 20 years as a guide I’ve learned that your leader is the unsung hero of your setup, and today, we’re giving it the spotlight it deserves.
The Captain's Collective: Hunter's Path from Outdoor Enthusiast to fly fishing Podcaster
Hunter's journey into the world of fly fishing and podcasting is a testament to the power of curiosity and connection. From humble beginnings to launching The Captain's Collective, Hunter shares his experiences, challenges, and the meaningful relationships that have shaped his podcast and his approach to fishing. Whether you're new to the sport or an experienced angler, his story offers insight into the personal growth and community that fly fishing fosters
5 Best Fly Rods for Streamer Fishing in 2025: What Makes a Great Rod for Big Flies
Streamer fishing is one of the most exciting ways to target big aggressive fish and has become an addiction of mine over the years. But not all fly rods are created equal when it comes to handling these big streamers. The right rod and setup make a huge impact on your casting accuracy, distance, and ability to land those giant trophies youve been looking for.
In this article, I’ll break down the key components of a fly rod that’s perfect for streamer fishing and i’ll give you my top 5 picks for 2025— Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to streamer fishing, having the right rod is essential, There is nothing worse than watching someone try and cast a giant streamer with a five-weight rod.
Tips for Fishing in the High Alpine: Insights from Russell Davie
Fishing in high alpine environments presents unique challenges that demand a mix of physical toughness and technical skill. In this interview, Russell Davie shares his experiences and tips for tackling alpine fishing, from gear choices to overcoming unpredictable weather. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, these tips will help you navigate the highs and lows of high-altitude fishing!
Keeping White Marlin on the Map | The Skillie Project in Action
Led by The Billfish Foundation (TBF), The Skillie Project initiative combines cutting-edge science, dedicated local captains, and a passionate Nantucket fishing community determined to preserve the iconic White Marlin (or Skillies) for future generations.
Back in the 1980s, Nantucket’s waters became a hotspot for these larger-than-average marlin. By the late 20th century, anglers were landing Skillies in record numbers. But in recent years, their annual return has been spotty, raising concerns for their future.
5 Essential Tips for Getting Started with Fly Tying: Insights from a Raymond Collette
Fly tying is a rewarding skill that every angler should consider mastering, and this interview is packed with tips to help you get started. From advice on materials and techniques to finding your own creative flow, these tips will take your tying game to the next level. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your craft, this conversation will inspire you to experiment and dive in!
Transitions on the Bow: A Passion for Skiing and Fly Fishing
We recently caught up with KATE WILSON, the creative mind behind Transitions the Bow, a captivating film that was showcased at the 2025 F3T Film Festival. This project offers a deeper look into her life, blending her love for skiing and fly fishing. In this interview, we dive into how the film came together, the connection between these two outdoor passions, and the lessons learned along the way. Get ready to hear about the adventures that fuel both the slopes and the river
Tips for Fly Fishing for Arctic Char: Gear, Patterns, and Timing for Success
Fly fishing for Arctic char in the northern waters of Scandinavia is a thrilling yet challenging pursuit. From selecting the right fly patterns based on their diverse diets to knowing when to target these elusive fish, success often comes down to careful timing and patience. Whether you're chasing trophy char or simply enjoying the journey, these tips will help you increase your chances of landing that perfect catch.
Conservation and Colorado: A Winning Combo for Trout Unlimited
If you’ve ever wished you could hug your favorite stream, Trout Unlimited has the next best thing. Their Embrace A Stream program has been funding grassroots conservation projects since 1975. We're talking over million toward 1,200 volunteer-led projects. Big moves like this need big support. TU’s getting it from some heavy hitters, including Mayfly Outdoors, the crew behind Abel, Ross Reels, and other top-notch brands. Their Native Reel program—like the Colorado Cutthroat and Rio Grande reels—is pouring funds into stream restoration across the country.
5 Tips for Landing Trophy Trout on Streamers
When it comes to chasing monster trout with streamers, there’s no room for half-measures. Luis, an Idaho native and streamer enthusiast, knows what it takes to connect with these elusive giants. From fishing unexpected water to dialing in your retrieve, his tips offer a road map for anglers ready to up their game.
How Does Barometric Pressure Affect Feeding Trout?
Barometric pressure refers to the weight of the air above us. When a cold front or storm system rolls in, the pressure can drop significantly. This shift causes a physical reaction in fish, especially trout, as their swim bladders adjust to the changing conditions. When the pressure drops, the swim bladder expands, and this process can make the fish uncomfortable. Conversely, when the pressure rises, their swim bladders shrink.
On-the-Water Photography | 3 Tips from Trevor at Lateral Line
Meet Trevor, a late bloomer to the fly fishing world who turned his passion for trout and adventure into a thriving creative career. From a life-changing summer in Idaho to capturing golden stonefly hatches through his lens, Trevor’s journey is as inspiring as it is picturesque. In this interview, he shares his favorite moments, must-have gear, and three invaluable tips for photographers looking to break into the fly fishing scene.
How Sharks Are Impacting Florida Keys Fishing | Insights from BTT Research
At Fly Life Media, we know the tug is the drug—but not when a lemon shark cuts in! Findings from Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) reveal that shark-angler interactions in the Florida Keys are on the rise, frustrating anglers and threatening fish populations. From snook-snatching lemons to depredation hotspots mapped with local guides, the data shows sharp increases in these incidents since 2014. BTT’s Shark Depredation Project is working hard to find solutions, combining field research with community input to protect the flats fishery we all love
Nick’s Journey: From First Cast to The Curious Angler
Nick's passion for fly fishing began with a single cast on the Boise River, sparking a lifelong connection to the sport. Through his blog, The Curious Angler, he shares his experiences, insights, and lessons learned from fishing the Greater Yellowstone Region, blending his love for writing and the water into a resource for anglers everywhere.
Winter Fly Fishing: 5 Tips for Success on the Cold Water Days
When it comes to winter fly fishing, it’s easy to think of cold fingers, icy guides, and the occasional day of going fishless. But let me tell you, when it all comes together, those winter days on the water can be downright magical. I’ve had my share of days where I barely squeak out a fish or two, but then there are the golden ones—days when everything clicks, and it feels like the river is just giving out gifts.