The Fly Culture Podcast: Recent Episodes
Pete Tyjas
Pete Tyjas from Fly Culture Magazine sits down with people whose lives either revolve around or are shaped by fly fishing.
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Episode 343 - Neil Lobban - Fishing, Casting and Teaching
In this weeks episode I catch up with Neil Lobban to learn a little bit about what fishing means to him andfind out his local rivers and how they have been fishing of late.
Neil is Chair of AAPGAI and he tells me how he started as an instructor and a little about the ams of AAPGAI and what the organisation is all about.
We of course get some casting tips and shoehorn in some tackle talk too.
Neil has done a lot for fly fishing, you'll hear about some of the projects he has helped set up over the years.
This is a fascinating listen, I'm sure you'll enjoy.
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Episode 342 - Yvette Austin - Fly Fishing and a Love of the Outdoors
I catch up with Yvette Austin to learn about her fly fishing timeline that includes rivers, lakes and saltwater.
From crabbing at the end of a pier to small stillwater, reservoirs and the streams of her home county of Kent, I hear about why she is so passionate about fly fishing.
Yvette also talks about her role with the BBC as a presenter.
We cover a lot of ground that I know you will find interesting.
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Episode 341 Fishing Bamboo with David Spencer
I speak with David Spencer about his passion for bamboo fly rods.
We look at the differing ways into this sub-genre of fly fishing via artisan builders like Luke Bannister, Edward Barder or Callum Gladstone among others or by searching auction sites or vintage tackle dealers to find a rod that might be perfect or needs some TLC if you are able to tackle the task.
We also discuss fly line selection for your new rod and and also how to care for bamboo rods too.
David has also organised a bamboo gathering in August that you'l hear about too.
If you've ever been bamboo curious this might be the gateway you've been looking for!
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Episode 340 - A Long Hot Summer
It's been a while since I've fished my home water, the Taw, due to the warm weather we've been having.
Water temperatures have been too high to cast a dry to a trout so I've been standing in saltwater casting to mullet and after a conversation with my friend Warren, we decided to see if we could catch some carp on the fly.
I made a last minute decision to pack the mic hoping I had enough battery power and share the day with you.
It starts slow but as the day progresses we see some carp, work out the best method to catch them and have a fun time on the water.
This was a spur of the moment trip but I'm pleased we did it.
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Episode 339 - The Italian Job Friuli 2026
I'm thrilled to once more be back in Italy with a group of anglers.
The weather is hot, the water is cold but the trout are rising and everyone is excited.
You'll join us to hear about the fishing and how we experience the 3 days of fishing.
I speak with the guides and also learn a little more about the Danubian and Marble Trout.
For me, these trips are special and getting the chance to share all of the wonderful moments is special.
Sit down and join us for the latest instalment of the Italian Job!
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Episode 338 - Marnie Lovejoy - Chair of The Grayling Society
I catch up with Marnie who is fresh from the river after catching a few fish before we recorded this episode.
I speak with her about her new role as Chair of the Grayling Society, her passion for this fish and what her plans are for the future.
Marnie talks me through her fishing timeline, the mentors she has had and what fishing means to her.
I learn that The Grayling Society is run totally by volunteers and why supporting the society by joining makes such a huge difference.
We talk about the grayling being 'the canary in the coal mine' and how additudes have changed to them in more recent time.
Marnie is an engaging guest who has a clear, modern vision for the society.
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Episode 337 = Mayfly Road Trip
I load the van with a sleeping bag a few rods and head off to fish the Test, stay at a campsite and fish the Wylye the next day.
It is early June and the mayfly are still about but the weather has shifted from the mini heatwave to wind and rain.
On the Test, I fish with Neil Mundy who invited me along for the day. He tells me about his passion for stalking trout in clear water on both rivers and lake and the incredible charity work he does.
The next day, I fish with Warren McCarthy on the Wylye. We start by fishing a small carrier stream with some surprising results before fishing the main river.
The weather is tricky but we manage to find a few rising fish and I crack and tie on a nymph too!
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Episode 336 - Emilie Björkman - A Life in Fishing
Today, I’m excited to share my recent conversation with the incredibly talented angler, Emily Björkman.
As a skilled fly angler who has traveled the globe with a fly rod, Emily brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for fishing, particularly for salmon.
In this episode, we’ll explore her journey into the world of fishing from a very young age, the community around it, and her advocacy for salmon conservation.
We talk about the rise of social media and life before it too.
Emilie has been to some amazing places and gives us an insight into her world.
We've been trying to tie this interview up for a while but I'm pleased that we got the chance to talk.
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Episode 335 - Neil Smith A Passion for Rivers
In this episode, I catch up with Neil Smith an angler and guide based in the North West of the UK.
I learn about the fishing he enjoys and why along with hearing about the rivers he likes to fish.
Neil also talks about the issues with cormorants and how he was involved with the reintroduction of grayling into a local stream and how they are thriving.
You'll sense the passion and love for fishing that Neil has that will come across in this episode.
I hope you enjoy!
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Episode 334 - Catching up with an old friend.
I first met Duncan Wilcox 12 or so years ago. He hired me as a guide but we got on so well that we ended up fishing a lot together.
At the time, he was based in Devon but moved to Spain and has had a base in New Zealand for 25 years.
In this episode, you'll hear us catch up, talk fishing and I hear a little about Duncan's fishing exploits.
This was an impromptu recording that happened on the river during a hatch we had high hopes for.
I hope you'll enjoy this episode.
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Episode 333 - Amwell Magna and the River Lea
What only feels like yesterday but was a number of years ago now, I was a member of Amwell Magna Fishing Club based on the River Lea in Hertfordshire.
I made the long drive and was lucky enough to catch the mayfly hatch.
I speak with members about what has changed since I last fished there and catch a few fish too.
Feargal Sharkey was there and tells me what anglers can do to protect their waterways, we had lunch provided by Michelin Starred chef, Chris Galvin and I also hear about the Scotch Egg origins from pastry maestro Roger Pizey from Fortnum and Mason.
We caught fish but the day was about much more than that and captures a little of what fly fishing means to all of us.
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Episode 332 - A Day in the Life
In this episode I take you with me for the day in my new role at Trout & Salmon.
You'll join us on a rod test on the river with Rod Hardy and guest for the review, Roger Fagan.
Without giving too much away, you'll hear what goes into the test and how it is put together.
I get to spend a few hours fishing with Rob before heading over to the Orvis store in Stockbridge to host one of our gatherings.
I catch up with Ollie from the store and some of the guests too before making the short trip to a campsite to spend my first night of the year in my van.
I wake up a little bleary eyed ahead of fishing with Richard who I work with for a fried breakfast and a days fishing.
I hope you enjoy this episode.
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Episode 331 - Steve Bircumshaw - A Passion for Fly Fishing
I catch up with Steve to talk about his fishing time line right up to the present.
I learn about when he first picked up a fly rod and the impact it had on his life.
Steve also does some guiding and works in the Mallon and Green tackle shop and often appears on their social media.
He is a skilled angler who shares some great tips about fishing and fly tying.
He also tells me about his life as a musician that you'll enjoy hearing about.
Steve is one of the good guys who I really enjoyed talking with.
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Episode 330 - Being a Guide for the Day
In this latest episode I come out of retirement to take Malcolm fishing after I was persuaded to offer a Lot in the Wild Trout Trust Auction.
The day takes place on my home water, the Taw in Devon.
Malcolm and I talk about the fishing, his fishing career and the places he likes to cast a fly.
As ever, this is recorded exactly as it happens with no re-takes or edits.
Come and join me for a day on the river!
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Episode 329 - Tweed Salmon Festival 2026
The drive from Devon to attend the festival was a long one but worth it.
I got the chance to meet some amazing people who care deeply about bringing people into fishing, caring about the fish and the waters they swim in.
I based myself in the Yeti bar, a converted removal lorry but also walked around the festival to speak with demonstrators, tackle companies and those attending too.
This isn't a trade show though. It is about encouraging youngsters to explore the world of fishing and to give them a taster of why we all love it so much.
Eoin Fairgrieve is an extraordinary man. Someone who has boundless enthusiasm, passion and drive for our pastime.
He has pulled off a wonderful event, made sure everyone had a good time and somehow also produced a journal to accompany the event.
I have done my best to capture a little about what it was all about that I hope you'll enjoy listening to.
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Episode 328 - Pit Stop Fishing
I had to head to Hampshire on a non-fishing errand.
I decided to pack my gear and if I got away in good time, I'd stop in Wiltshire and make a few casts.
I only decided to pack my mic at the very last moment and have recorded the few hours on the river exactly as it happened.
It is a stream of consciousness that talks about the fishing but ends up being a lot more and I think reflects how lifted we get by standing in a river catching a few trout.
I hope you enjoy this episode.
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Episode 327 - Will Shaw & Mark Surtees on Fishing, Fly Casting and Instruction Part 2
I'm pleased to be welcoming back Will and Mark back to the podcast for the 2nd part of their trilogy of interviews that circle around fly casting information for anglers but also for instructors too.
We start with an amazing story from Will on a huge fish he lost recently on a dry fly and how we cope with a loss like this.
We discuss about the difference between stalking fish and fishing the water and how that effects how we look at catching a good fish and whether we snip off and head home or not.
Our conversation moves into casting where there is some great tips for those wishing to improve but some ground-breaking theories on the teaching process when it comes to fly casting.
If you are an instructor or starting on this path, it is essential listening.
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Episode 326 - River Exe Fishing Day
Every fishing day should start with a catch up over breakfast and a visit to a tackle shop.
This is exactly how this day began when I caught up with friend and rod builder, Warren McCarthy, for a day's fishing on the River Exe and one of it's tributaries, the Haddeo.
We have a fry-up and then drop into Lance Nicholson's in Dulverton to see James who runs the shop and make a few purchases.
I start fishing with good intentions, sticking to just a dry fly before making a few changes.
Join us for a day's fishing on some beautiful streams.
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Episode 325 The Fly Fishing Community
Last weekend we hosted our first Trout & Salmon Gathering at the Fox and Hounds down in Devon.
The hotel has a special place in my heart as I spent 12 years of my life guiding the hotel's water.
I'm always a little nervous ahead of these events but there was no need to worry.
We kicked off with a film and went on to have talks, demos, tying, good food and even some music.
The big clue I had was when groups of strangers were sat together for dinner and continued talking long after the food had been cleared.
We were lucky to have some amazing guests to share their knowledge with attendees including Paul Procter, Simon Kidd, Gareth Lewis, Pete Cockwill, Jay Bartlett, Ed Thomson, Fred Brown, Harry Chance, Ed Noyes and many more.
In-between my various duties I got the chance to speak with some of the people there about fishing and to capture a little of what went on.
It was amazing fun and I hope you enjoy this episode.
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Episode 324 - Dan O'Neill - Fishing Guiding and Life
I caught up recently with Dan and was bowled over by his enthusiasm, passion and love for fly fishing.
I learn about his fly fishing story, how he saw someone casting on the river when he was a young boy and the direction it took him in.
He tells me about how determined he was to speak with the gillie at the hotel where he worked and how it led him into being a fishing guide.
I also get some great fishing tips from him for fishing rivers and hear a wonderful story about one of his guests who had a license to kill!
This is a really nice story that you'll enjoy hearing.
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Episode 323 - A Day Trip To Glasgow
I get up early, drive to Bristol airport to attend the Glasgow Angling Centre Open Weekend.
I catch up with attendees, friends from the trade and get the chance to speak with the man behind the store, Paul Devlin, to hear his story from a stall on a market to a 30,000 square foot store today.
I hear about some the latest products coming to anglers this year and talk fishing with all of them.
You'll hear from Eoin Fairgrieve, Gordon Armstrong, Simon Gawesworth, Steve Peterson, Rachel Brady, Jim Fearne, Jim Curry plus more.
As ever, I try hard to mix up each episode to ensure you'll have something different to listen to each week.
I hope you enjoy this one!
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Episode 322 There's No Place Like Home Water
In this episode I am joined by my wife Emma and our dog Montana for a morning on our home water, the Taw, in Devon.
We talk about some of the times we have experienced here and share stories of fish we have caught.
We didn't plan to do a podcast but thought it might be fun to take you fishing, explain a little about where we're fishing and what it means to us.
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New Podcast Ep 321 - Trout Fishing in Patagonia
Join me as I head to Argentina with my friend Ray in search of Patagonian brown, rainbow and brook trout.
We fish a variety of rivers, lakes and spring creeks with nymphs, dries and streamers.
The fish are like no other I have caught before and are sizeable and strong.
We stay at Argentina Waters Lodge as a treat for my birthday.
I have worked hard to capture what I can only describe as incredible fishing.
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Episode 320 Will Shaw and Mark Surtees on Fly Casting and Instruction
In this episode, we explore the evolving world of fly casting instruction along with fly casting tips.
Will and Mark have looked at the traditional teaching process and have looked into other sports to learn from them and how they can be transferred into fly casting tuition.
Their modern approach focusses on their pupil and how they can take as much as possible from a lesson and to make the session enjoyable and easy to understand.
I really enjoyed talking with them both as they share some amazing knowledge that will help both instructors and those looking to improve their skills on to a new, more modern platform.
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Episode 319 - Live from the BFFI
In this episode, I'm at an event that is becoming the get together to mark the start of a new season, the BFFI in Staffordshire.
I'm at the event in my new capacity with the magazine but I got the chance to speak with attendees and stall holders about the show and what it means to them.
I've tried to capture the feel of the BFFI and give you some insights into tackle that you might be seeing this year.
If you haven't been before, I hope this episode will take you there!
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Episode 318 - 3 Days of Bonefish
January has been wet, miserable and largely unfishable.
Being able to feel the sun on my face and the company of good people has been a welcome tonic.
I'm in Mexico and have 3 days of wading the flats to see if I can find bonefish, permit or tarpon.
I'll talk you through what happens, tell you a little about flats fishing and let you know if we find any fish.
Hope you enjoy!
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Episode 317 - Rob Hardy - Writing, Reviewing and Fishing
In this episode I catch up with one of my colleagues, at Trout & Salmon Rob Hardy, to talk about his fishing career, dream destinations and the places that mean a lot to him.
I also learn about how he got involved with writing at Trout & Salmon and what goes into the tackle reviews. We also touch on rod tests too.
Since I have got to know Rob I've learnt he is a really good person who is thoughtful, kind and is just like us, a super keen fly angler.
It is always nice for me to let you know a little about someone who will might well recognise from his writing but get the chance to learn a little about them.
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Episode 315 - Steve Cooper - Fly Fairs, Tying and Fishing
I catch up with Steve Cooper, who along with his wife Bridgette, are behind the BFFI show that takes place in February.
I learn what goes into it along with all of the planning involved.
Steve tells me how the show came about and what he learnt from the early days.
He is also extremely passionate about his fly tying business, Cookshill Fly Tying, that came from his early days as a custom fly tyer.
If you're heading to the show in February, this episode will give you an insight into the work involved.
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Episode 314 - River Walks and Streamer Talk on the River Taw
I catch up with friend Fred Brown for bacon sandwiches and a walk along the river.
He now lives in Devon and like me, his home water is the Taw.
I take him to where I spend most of my time fishing as we walk the river and plan trips for next year.
Fred is an extremely talented angler who enjoys both salmon, sea trout and brown trout fishing.
He has been fishing streamers for a while now and appears in the excellent River Trout Streamer Fishing Book by Theo Pike.
I get some advice on how to fish them on a few of the pools we walk that I hope you'll find useful.
A river always looks most beautiful when you can't fish it but it didn't matter.
It was just good to be there.
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Episode 313 - James Gilbraith - Fishing Plans, Social Media, Fly Tying and Life
We've had this nice little tradition going of me speaking with Boo just before Christmas and whether he'll get through it OK.
I thought it might be nice to see if he came through the other side OK and what he is planning for this fishing year.
We also discuss the season that has passed, social media and the realities of book writing.
Boo's view of life is wonderful, one that will make you laugh out loud when you hear.
As ever, we wander down some interesting worm holes in the conversation!
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Episode 312 - Winter Grayling with Ed Thomson
It's between Christmas and New Year and I get a message from Ed asking if I fancy going fishing.
The answer, of course, is yes.
We eat a big breakfast and head to the river.
It is always a pleasure to hear about a piece of water that means so much to them and this episode is no exception.
Ed has a long association with it that you'll enjoy hearing about.
As ever, this is just 2 friends talking about a pastime that means a lot to them.
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Episode 311 - Jani Himanko - Surf Board Streamers, Dry Flies and Big Trout
My guest, Jani Himanko, is based in Finland. He tells me about the fishing in the area including the incredible story of the huge trout that leave the lakes to feed on the coarse fish that come into the river to spawn.
I hear about the patterns he and his friends have devised to tackle these fish.
I also learn about his life as a fishing guide and why he decided to open a fishing lodge, Kellankoski, and what goes into the running of it to ensure guests have a great stay.
Jani, is a great guy who speaks with honesty, integrity and openness about all aspects of his fishing life.
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Episode 310 - A New Chapter
I don't really like talking about myself, I find other people much more interesting.
In recent months though, my life has taken a big change in direction and I really wanted to share with you what has happened and why I made this decision.
In this special, turning the tables on Pete Tyjas, I talk with Ben Jailler about why I took the job as editor of Trout & Salmon magazine, what the role involves, my plans for this much loved title and the closing of Fly Culture, something that has been incredibly special to me.
As ever, I am completely open and transparent about every aspect and hope you learn why I took my dream job.
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Episode 309 - Richard Gorodecky - The Meteor, The Ditch & The Very Big Trout
This week we have a take over from author Richard Gorodecky who reads a section from his book - Throwing Feathers in the Wind.
He was so popular last time that it only felt right to have him back.
The piece he reads is from a chapter called - The Meteor, The Ditch & The Very Big Trout
It is the story of a big trout. A very big trout.
Buy the book HERE
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Episode 308 - Jack Westbury on Grayling Fishing
Those clear, cold days aren't far off now and with that in mind, I caught up with angler Jack Westbury to pick up some tips regarding fishing for grayling.
I learn a lot as he tells me about leader set up, spacing of flies, controlling the drift and manipulation of flies.
We also cover tackle choices and his preference for longer rods.
We discuss his trout fishing too, including long leaders and micro drag.
Being based in Derbyshire, he spends a lot of time at the fly fishing shop, Mallon and Green. We talk about how Marie and John have made the shop the hub of the local fishing community.
Jack talks great sense that I'm sure you'll gain something useful from.
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Episode 307 - Friends, Grayling and Falling Barometers
Grayling days are sociable for me.
They start with breakfast, fishing talk and catching up with friends.
On this episode, I fish with my friend Paul Procter.
We were planning to fish and just chew the fat.
At the last moment, I ran back to my van, grabbed my mic and we captured the day and our thoughts exactly as it happened.
We didn't plan or rehearse what we'd say preferring to speak about things we'd noticed that I hope might be interesting and of use.
I really enjoy days like these with good people, taking it in turns to fish and laughing.
Come fishing with us for the day!
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Episode 306 - Chris Galvin - Michelin Stars and Fly Rods
I catch up with Chris Galvin to learn about his amazing life so far along with his passion for fly fishing.
He has been transfixed by water after seeing trout in a stream in Cornwall as a child.
He tells me about how he first picked up a fly rod and where it has taken him over the years.
He is also an extremely successful restauranteur and chef with a Michelin Star. He gives me an inside look at the work that goes into a professional kitchen along with people he has spent time with while being there.
I hear about the pressures involved with the job and how fly fishing has been the perfect alternative to his hectic life.
His love and passion for our pastime comes pouring out.
He is definitely one of us.
Despite his success, he is an incredibly humble and modest person you're going to enjoy listening to.
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Episode 305 - Philip Pinney - A Fly Fishing Life and So Much More
There are times when you meet someone, hear their story and are amazed by the life they have led.
Philip was born in New Zealand and had a fly rod in his hand from an early age.
Fishing tiny streams with his friends he was never far from a river.
On leaving school, he joined the RAF basing himself in the UK as the stillwater scene was just starting.
He flew Buccaneer aircraft during the Cold War and travelled the world in an aircraft including flying in Top Gun combat tactical performance programs in Nevada, US doing extremely well.
He also taught the then Prince Charles to fly and took him fishing just before his investiture as Prince of Wales. He also tells me about the Queen Mother who was also a keen fly angler.
On leaving the RAF, Philip spent more time fishing the chalk streams of Hampshire and the salmon rivers of Scotland.
He is an incredibly modest person who at 86, has seen and done so many things in a packed fishing career so far!
We sat and talked for an hour, I feel like I only scratched the surface of this amazing story.
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Episode 304 - Charles Jardine - Big News, Fishing and Life
I talk with Charles Jardine about some big news he has shared regarding the work he and his team have done with Fishing For Schools.
It could prove to be life changing for anyone deciding to follow the path they are laying out.
We talk about how he has found fishing the rivers and lakes in his new backyard in Wales and look at the creative process of fly tying.
We also look at parts of his life you may not know so much about including an amusing guiding story!
As you'd expect, Charles is a wonderfully engaging guest who is incredibly modest about what he has achieved in fly fishing.
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Episode 303 Hannah Arends - Black Forest Trout
In this episode I speaks with Hannah Arends, an enthusiastic fly fisher from Germany, who shares her journey into the world of fly fishing.
She tells me about her best fishing season yet, the balance between family life and her passion for fishing, and the importance of mentorship in her growth as an angler.
Hannah talks about fly tying and why the pheasant tail nymph is her go-to choice for a day on the water.
We look at some of her dream destinations and how she has met like-minded people through her use of social media.
Fishing means so much to Hannah and I guarantee you'll smile while listening.
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Episode 302 - A Leap of Faith with Johannes Bulfin.
I welcome Johannes back to the podcast to learn about his new guiding venture, Watershed Fly Fishing, based in Ireland.
We'll hear about how his first season has gone and what he has learnt from it.
Having fished with Johannes I know how talented he is as an angler and learn how he translates this into his guiding along with his ethos.
He tells me about the good days and what they feel like but also about when the rain falls and a change of plan is needed.
I also learn about his techniques for targeting lake run trout.
Johannes is an incredibly modest person who is also open about his feelings of what guiding means to him and what he hopes to give his guests on their day.
It is so nice to speak to a good person trying to make a difference to our pastime.
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Episode 301 - End of Season Reflections
It's the end of the season on my home river, the Taw.
The hours are counting down before I leave it for 6 months and wait until March comes round once again.
I fish it for trout one last time and talk to you from the river about what is happening, how I am feeling along with how I've been approaching the water.
This is a completely open and honest just speaking into the mic with no editing at all or any retakes. It is just the moments as they happen and what I feel at the time.
I really enjoyed doing this and hope you'll join me and my dog Montana on my beloved River Taw.
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Special 300th Episode with Jason Borger
Wow, where has that time gone?
Thank you to everyone who has been a guest, written to say they've enjoyed the podcast and to everyone who has listened.
I couldn't have done this without you.
For this small landmark episode I catch up with Jason Borger to talk about fishing, casting and life.
We look at his film work and talk about the sad passing of Robert Redford.
Jason worked with him on 'River Runs Through It' and tells me about working with him.
We cover casting and I get one of best pieces of advice when it comes to casting practice I think I have had.
There is lots of fishing talk that I hope you'll enjoy.
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The Fly Culture Podcast - Episode 299
Simon Francis - The Wild Trout Trust and a Passion for Fishing
I catch up with Simon Francis to talk about his fishing career, his home water including his love of the pocket water of the East Lyn in the West Country.
We look at what fishing means to him and where it has taken him.
He has also recently become Chairman of The Wild Trout Trust and I talk with him about what the role entails and how he sees the state of trout right now but also the future too.
As ever we cover a lot of topics that you're sure to find interesting.
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The Fly Culture Podcast Episode 298
Fly Culture trip to Trentino, Italy
I'm really pleased to be back in the mountains of Trentino with another group of anglers.
There was a mix of returnees and 3 new members of the team who'd not been before.
In this episode, I take you on the water, talk with the guides and those on the trip to give you a feel of the varied fishing we experience.
As ever, these trips turn into being something more than the fish. It is about old friends, new friends, early morning coffee, fly tying and Tiramisu for breakfast.
This was a memorable trip for all the right reasons.
Sit down, take a listen and join us for a few days on the rivers of Trentino.
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The Fly Culture Podcast - Episode 297 John Boon Fishing, Casting and Life
A few years back John came down to Devon to do a season of guiding with my fishing school.
It was a lot of fun and after a day of guiding out we'd fish, cast or just talk fishing.
He is a supremely talented fly caster who passed his masters exam at the age of 20.
We look at his home water, the Welsh Dee and he tells me how he prefers to fish it.
We also talk about mental health and John speaks candidly about dealing with depression and how fishing has been a huge help through difficult times.
This a timely reminder to keep a look out for friends and to make a little time to give them a call or message and see how they're doing.
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Episode 296 - Sarah Rønholt - Spey Casts, Salmon and Wilderness
I catch up with Sarah as she speaks to me from her farm close to her home river, the Skjern in Denmark.
I learn about the work that has been done to improve this river so that salmon are once more running it again.
We look at the places she has visited both near and far and the impact they have had on her as an angler and a whole lot more too.
We also talk about her role as an ambassador for Patagonia and the work the brand does for the environment.
Salmon are her main fishing passion and her feeling for this fish will resonate with anyone listening including those moments when we lose one!
Put aside an hour and listen to this wonderful story.
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Episode 297 - Todd Moen - A Life With a Camera and Fly Rod
I catch up with Todd to talk with him about his fly fishing life and of course learn about the many fly fishing films he has made.
From Montana to pretty much the rest of the world he has helped capture and shape how many of us view fly fishing.
He tells me about his fly fishing career and how he first picked up a camera too.
As someone who has put together an online magazine I got to hear how Catch Magazine was born and what is happening with it today.
I feel sure many of you have seen Todd's work over the years but if you haven't be sure to check it out.
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Episode 295 - Richard Gorodecky - Throwing Feathers in the Wind
In this latest episode I talk with Richard Gorodecky about how he has found home in Ireland and the fishing he has discovered there.
We discuss what fishing means to him and what he has taken from it.
He has also recently published a book called Throwing Feathers in the Wind that he tells me about and reads a section from it.
He is a talented writer who captures perfectly why we love fly fishing so much.
If you'd like a copy, you can buy from the publisher here - https://medlarpress.com/bookstore?store-page=Throwing-Feathers-in-the-Wind-p730672319
Or if you'd like a signed copy visit Richard.s site here - https://www.gorodecky.com/
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Episode 294 - The Fly Fishing Duo
I meet up with Ewan and Millie to fish the River Wye in Derbyshire and talk about what fly fishing means to them.
They are young and hugely passionate about our pastime and spend their working hours dreaming about going to the river.
I get the chance to see fly fishing through their eyes and how it looks to them.
They are both skilled anglers who catch some fish while we are talking.
I often worry we live in a world that is dominated by social media and the lengths some will go to for a Like or the dream of sponsorship but they aren't interested in any of this.
All they want to do is to try and introduce people of their age group to something that means so much to them.
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Episode 293 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, The People and Places Pt5
In the latest episode of the podcast take over with Pete Cockwill he takes us salmon fishing for king salmon in Alaska, talks about his love of grayling and takes us to the streams of Devon and Cornwall.
As ever, it is delivered in a beautiful manner packed with fun stories and some poignant moments too.
I hope you enjoy this one!
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I got the chance to walk and fish an amazing piece of water at Mottisfont on the famous Test in Hampshire.
Mike and Neil tell me about their policy towards the water and what they have done to improve the habitat for the wildlife and fish there.
It is a really interesting story and as they get ready to offer the fishing on a day ticket basis in 2026 I hear about how they plan to make it available for a wide range of people to use and enjoy at a price that suits just about every pocket.
Mike and Neil are good people doing something that is a little ground-breaking for this part of the world and I applaud them for it.
The mayfly had started hatching and we managed to find a few rising trout.
Learn more about the fishing below.
https://www.wessexrt.org.uk/ChalkStreamExperience.html
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Episode 291 - Jon Harris Home Water
I catch up with Fly Culture contributor Jon Harris to talk about his home water and what it means to him.
We also look at what fly fishing means to him and where it has taken him.
I learn a little about his fishing time line and how he likes to fish.
We discuss how fly fishing is looking right now and are we a pastime populated by a small but passionate group of anglers.
This is a wonderful discussion that I am sure you'll enjoy!
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Episode 290 - Richard McHattie - River Don, Competitive Fishing and Fishing Tips
I speak with Richard about his love for his home river, the Don near Aberdeen a place where his fishing career began.
I learn about how he started competition fishing that included him representing Scotland on both river and stillwater disciplines before going on to captain his country too.
We look at how fly fishing is looking in Scotland and beyond and discuss whether we are part of a small but passionate band of anglers.
I couldn't let the opportunity pass without getting some fishing tips from Richard, some of which you might not be aware of.
The podcast is free to download and enjoy!
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Episode 289 - Stalking Carp
I'm just back from Italy, the weather in Devon is bright and warm and I had been thinking of going to my local river but with it being so warm I thought I'd try something a little different.
I decided to see if I could target carp with a fly in clear water.
My plan was to spot a fish, cover it and if I was lucky, even catch it.
I took the mic with me and talked as the day unfolded.
It turned out to be a day of a lot of hard yards and a heap of walking. I checked and I walked 9 miles searching out either a cruising or tailing fish.
With sun on my back and walking in shallow, clear water it was easy to draw parallels with wading a bonefish flat. It was equally as exciting!
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Episode 288 - Marble Trout in the Italian Mountains
I packed my rods, headed to the airport and flew out to Italy on a Fly Culture trip.
The destination was Friuli and the target fish was marble trout.
None of the group had caught them before but under the careful eye of Vito and his team of guides we felt the chances were stacked in our favour.
We fished a wide variety of water that you'll hear about but we all realised these events turn out to be about more than just the fish.
This episode is about fishing, food and good company.
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Episode 287 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, People and Places Pt4
In the latest instalment of the podcast takeover, Pete Cockwill takes us from Cornwall to Surrey via Alaska and a few other places too.
He tells us about the places he's been and what has happened during his fishing life.
This focusses on his friendships and what they have meant to him and the fun he has had while out fishing.
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Episode 286 - Damian Robinson - Home Water
I catch up with Damian to fish a stretch of water that is a real challenge to fish with some of the spookiest fish I have ever seen.
I learn about how Damian approaches this sort of water and what he has learnt from fishing here.
The term technical fishing is, at times, used a little too freely but this is without a doubt somewhere that tests your skill to the limit.
There are lots of hints and tips that I think you're going to find interesting.
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Episode 285 - Fishing, Gatherings and Good People
I'm back on the road once more and this time I'm in Derbyshire to attend one of our gatherings at Mallon and Green in Bakewell.
I managed to tag on some fishing too and fish the Derwent with Geoff Hadley and bump into a few friends along the way as we fish late into the night.
The next morning, I attend the annual event that takes place in Bakewell to celebrate the anniversary of the river Wye switching to the dry fly only rule after James Ogden showed how devastating this method of fishing could be.
I speak with Jan Hobot who makes the ceremonial cast on the river and learn a little bit about this tradition that has taken place for 160 years.
Later in the day, I head over to Mallon and Green, a fly shop, that over the last 3 years has become the hub for the local fishing community.
I speak with some of the people attending about fishing who share some interesting stories.
This a snapshot into fly fishing on many levels that I hope you'll enjoy listening to.
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Episode 284 - Fishing for Schools at Lakedown Fishery
I'm back on the road again heading over to Lakedown Fishery in Sussex.
The event, hosted by Charles Jardine, is a fundraiser for Fishing For Schools.
During the day, I wander around the fishery speaking with those attending including Feargal Sharkey, Pete Cockwill, Yvette Austin, James Cuthbertson and Johnny Vegas who despite being an experienced coarse angler, has never fly fished before.
Does he catch his first trout?
Tune in, listen and be prepared to laugh out loud!
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Episode 283 - Scottish Road Trip
I packed the van and made the long drive from Devon to Aberdeen with my dog Monty along for company.
We fished the Don at Tilliefoure, a beautiful beat owned by Jason Bone who was a wonderful host.
I met some of the people are involved with the Don on many different levels and learnt what this river means to them.
I got lucky, caught a few trout but the trip turned out to be more than that, much more.
You're welcome to come and join me and Monty for this adventure.
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Episode 282 - Sandy Nelson - Home Water
I meet up with fly angler, rod builder and Fly Culture contributor, Sandy Nelson to fish for the evening on his home water, the Don.
I speak with him about the approach and the tactics he uses as we search for rising trout on the river.
This was an impromptu edition that started with us talking on the river bank but the conversation was too good not to share with you.
Listen as 2 friends and my dog, Monty, walk the river, make some casts and see what happens.
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Episode 281 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, The People and Places Pt3
In the latest instalment of Pete's story he tells us about the work that he undertook at the estate he managed including the carp and trout on the lakes.
There is a very amusing story about how he had to bury a recently deceased donkey which will have you laughing out loud.
He also talks about mullet fishing with a bamboo rod and wet flies along with a little more about Alaska, Abel reels and a whole lot more.
I hope you'll enjoy this episode as much I have.
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Episode 280 - Road Trip
This is an episode that is a little different.
I pack the van and head off for a couple of days fishing.
There is no plan other than to see if I can find a few rising trout.
I share a few things that I use to catch some fish, talk about an old rod that means a lot to me and reflect on life and fishing.
This is a totally open and honest episode that had no retakes, I just pressed record and talked.
I hope you enjoy this episode.
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Episode 279 - Paul Gaskell - Fishing Tips, Observations and Flies
I'm really pleased to have Paul back on the podcast.
You'll need your notepads at the ready as I talk with him about fishing small streams and then he how adapts his approach for bigger rivers too.
We look at the casts needed along with leader lengths for different water and what to do if you've arrived at the river and someone is already fishing.
Paul also tells me about his passion for the work of Victorian anger H. C. Cutcliffe and the impact he has had on his fishing.
Are small flies always best?
Tune in to find out.
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Episode 278 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, People and Places Part 2
Pete Cockwill is taking over the podcast again for part 2 in a series of podcasts that cover his life in fishing.
In this episode Pete tells us about his 20lb rainbow trout, king salmon, hunting squirrels and falling in lakes and rivers.
The stories are all told in Pete's unique style that are both interesting and very funny too.
I hope you'll enjoy this episode.
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Episode 277 - Tom Bird - Making the Changes
In this episode I cover a lot of ground with Tom.
If you know Tom, you might think he is mainly from a still water fishing background but he has a foot in rivers too. You'll find out which he prefers.
We look at the pressures of being a guide and how to manage working in fishing along with the closing of Draycote and the effect it had on him.
I also learn about his fishing time line and the impact it had on his career choice.
He is about to move to Hampshire to take on a new role and he tells me about it.
I had some rough questions but pressed record and let the conversation just flow.
It makes this edition a really interesting listen.
Free to download and enjoy!
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Episode 276 - The Tweed Salmon Festival
This was the chance for me to hop in the van, pass over some rivers I've dreamed about and make my way to Scotland for The Tweed Salmon Festival.
I catch up with friends old and new, talking with them about fishing, what it means to them as they walk around the show.
This is a new show run by good people that, at its heart, is trying to encourage young people into fishing. I so enjoyed seeing so many children catching their first fish.
I also talk to tackle companies and the good people from Patagonia who alongside supporting the event, had their Worn Wear repair service that was available not just for their own brand but any brand where you could get a favourite piece of clothing repaired.
We had good food, a few drinks and music from Colin Macleod who sang for us Saturday evening.
It doesn't matter if you don't salmon fish, this is about the people. I'm hoping you'll enjoy it.
I've tried hard to capture the event and the overall feel of it.
It was really special.
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Episode 275 - Keeping it Real
I meet up for some early season fishing with my friend Luke.
We're on the Usk, a river know for early season hatches and rising fish.
I step into the first pool and see a riser. Do I catch it?
This is an as it happens, unedited podcast of how the day unfolds.
I include some fishing tips and advice and a look into the thought process of a days fishing.
Hope you enjoy this episode!
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Episode 274 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, The People and the Places
I'm excited to be bringing you something a little different on this weeks podcast.
I'll be hosting a short series of monthly podcasts that chronicles the life of one of my fishing heros - Pete Cockwill.
I doubt there will be many who don't know of Pete he has done so much in fly fishing over the years.
From writing books, numerous articles, running a fishery and tackle shop, leading the way in stalking still water trout, catching huge grayling in Alaska and much, much more.
Pete tells us the story of it all.
This is part 1
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Episode 273 - Lucy Bowden-Croston and Lucinda Ewin on Fishing
I catch up with Lucy and Lucinda to take a look at fishing and what it means to them both.
Lucy is most at home with stillwater trout while Lucinda is primarily a salmon angler although I discover they do a whole lot more that this too.
We talk about how fishing is looking, social media and bringing people into our pastime.
This is a fun conversation that covers some really interesting topics I think you'll find a great listen.
Free to download and enjoy.
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Episode 272 - Last Gasp Grayling
Online friendships are one thing but what if you decide to meet up, are you going to get on?
I'd been talking with Mark from Shady River for a while now and we decided to eat a big breakfast and see if we could find some grayling.
I took my microphone on the spur of the moment and we ended up talking about the fishing and looking a little deeper into how fly fishing looks, is it growing and what it means to us.
We get a nice break from some good karma and have a fun day on the water.
This is recorded as it happens with no retakes or editing.
Hope you like this one!
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The Fly Culture Podcast Episode 271
Jay Bartlett on Char, Salmon, Music and Tying Flies
I catch up with Jay who was fresh from the vice and talk with him about production tying and getting ready for the fishing he has planned for the year.
We look at our pastime and I ask about the 'we need to bring more people into fly fishing' debate.
He tells me about his music career and I learn about playing guitar in front of large groups of people at a concert to standing alone on a river.
Jay has a relatively new passion in his life - char. He tells me about his trip to Greenland, the fishing and the film he made while he was there.
This is a varied discussion that covers a lot of topics that I hope you're going to enjoy.
There'll never be any charge for these podcasts, they're free to download.
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Episode 270 - Rob Mason - The Journey North
In this episode I talk with Rob Mason about leaving the streams of Devon and settling near Aberdeen.
We compare fishing between the two places and how he has settled in.
It is the time of year when new tackle is on the agenda along with fishing plans too.
He tells me about how fishing brings a nice balance against his day job as a surgeon and the benefits of how it makes us all feel.
I've known Rob a long time and this is very much a sit down and see where the conversation goes episode that I hope you'll enjoy as much as I did.
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Episode 269 - Luke Kozak on Fishing, Friends and the EA
I sat down and chatted with my friend Luke after eating a good breakfast and casting a few rods.
I talk with him about his fishing career, when he used to guide with me, the places he likes to fish and the people he has met along the way.
We also talk about the conservation work he did on rivers before joining the Environment Agency. He speaks about what is happening behind the scenes there.
I hope you'll enjoy the conversation as much as I did
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Episode 268 - The BFFI 2025 - All the Fun of the Fair
Join me as I make the long trip from Devon to Staffordshire to spend the day at the British Fly Fair International Show.
I catch up with friends old and new, hear about fishing plans, new products, books and what it is like to tie at the show.
This is a series of short interviews with a number of people about what they've been doing at the show that is totally unscripted or planned, we just talk!
Some of the people appearing are: Howard Croston, Scott Mackenzie, Karl Humphries, Andy Buckley, Jan Hobot, Gareth Lewis, Marie Mallon plus may more.
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Episode 267 - Eoin Fairgrieve and Colin Macleod Talk Fishing and Festivals
I catch up with Eoin and Colin to see how they feel fishing is looking, what their plans are for 2025 and their passion for salmon.
We also take a look at the previous season, how it compared with the last few years and why as anglers, we are the eternal optimists.
They are also behind the upcoming Tweed Salmon Festival that takes place over the 5th and 6th of April.
I learn how the planning is going, the ethos of the event, along with management too.
There is a lot to see and do for those who are newcomers to fishing right up to the most experienced.
Colin will also be playing a concert on the Saturday evening.
The festival is totally free and I was really pleased to hear from members of our community wanting to do some good for our pastime.
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Episode 266 - Andrea Larko on Fishing and Art
I caught up with Andrea to learn a little about her life and how it revolves around fishing.
We look at the streams she fishes in Pennsylvania, the joy of blue lining, brook trout and making sure you pick the right fishing friend.
I talk with her about her art and get an understanding of the work that goes into it and how it felt to sell her first piece.
We also discuss the determination needed to be successful in the fishing industry and the many hours of work that go on behind the scenes.
I really enjoyed our conversation and hope you will too.
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Episode 265 with Caspar Killick
My guest for this episode, Caspar Killick, lives close to his local stream in Wales and tries to get there most days during the summer.
He will also pack his Land Rover with his rods and a tent and might head to the far north of Scotland or even further in search of fishing adventures.
He tells me where he has been and some of the places he's been to including a trip that he is currently planning.
He is also an avid reader of fishing literature and shares some of his favourite titles with me.
He describes himself as a 'maker of things' that rolls into his day job of restoring vintage and classic cars.
Caspar also talks passionately about the environment and the things he has seen change over the years.
As ever this is a free to download podcast to enjoy!
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Episode 264 with Peter Arfield
I catch up with Peter to talk about a wide range of subjects that he answers in his own, inimitable and humorous way.
He talls me about how he first started fishing the Wye in Derbyshire and the lessons he learnt while observing the trout in the clear water.
We talk casting and why he decided to take a qualification and the impact it had on his fishing.
Many will know of his tackle shop that was in Bakewell and I learn how it started and the challenges he faced.
Please forgive the slight issues with sound that I hope don't detract from an interesting and amusing interview.
Free to download and enjoy!
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Episode 263 - Alex Brown on Fishing, The Mountains and Van Life
In the latest episode, I speak with Alex Brown from his home high in the Pyrenees about fishing in the area, how it ties in perfectly with his camper van and how he ended up in Spain.
We look at how a camper van can work perfectly with fly fishing and I make a confession about my plans for 2025 that may see me going this route.
He also runs Advanture magazine that has a similar ethos to Fly Culture. I learn how this came about and we talk about what goes into running a publication based around your lifestyle.
Alex is an articulate, thoughtful guest who has a great affinity with that outdoors that you'll enjoy hearing about.
Free to download and enjoy.
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Episode 262 - James Gilbraith - Anarchy Pie
It's become a nice little Christmas tradition where I catch up with writer and fly angler James Gilbraith about the state of the fishing world.
We look at seasons past, present and look to the future too.
I talk with him about fly selection, fishing clubs why fishing should be fun.
He also reads a section from one of his books that will resonate and make you laugh out loud too.
As ever, he takes an amusing look at life that will help you settle into Christmas and is best enjoyed with a mince pie and drink of your choice.
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Episode 261 - Zoe Dupuy on Trout, Grayling and Bonefish
In this episode I welcome Zoe Dupuy along to the podcast.
We look at Zoe's journey from Scotland to Hampshire and her love for both sailing and fishing.
We explore the similarities between the sailing and fishing communities, the challenges of accessing prime fishing locations in Hampshire and introducing friends to the sport.
Zoe tells me about the influence of media in the fishing community, the need to attract younger generations to fly fishing and shares her dream destinations, including Norway and Cuba, where she has had memorable fishing experiences.
As ever, free to download and enjoy!
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Episode 260 - From Wales to Siberia and Beyond with Robin Smith
In this episode of the podcast, I speak with award-winning documentary director of photography Robin Smith.
We discuss Robin's journey from life in London to rural living in the lower Wye Valley, his experiences with fly fishing, the iconic River Wye and the Monnow, as well as the challenges of balancing family life with a passion for fishing and how it fits with his busy work schedule.
We look at his working life and the serendipitous moments that led him to filmmaking while he shares his proudest moments, and the challenges faced while filming elusive species like the Amur tiger in Siberia.
As well as natural history programs Robin has worked with Jeremy Wade and Robson Green too.
This is a slightly longer podcast than normal that looks at fly fishing but ends up being a conversation about a whole lot more.
Free to download and enjoy.
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I welcome Steve Cullen back for this episode to discuss the evolving landscape of fly fishing.
We explore innovations in rod design, the importance of camaraderie in fishing, and the impact of social media on anglers' perceptions and behaviours.
We also touch on ethical considerations in fishing and the changing dynamics of fishing photography, emphasising the need for respect towards fish, the environment and the influence of signal crayfish on trout feeding habits.
We take a look on the state of rivers, hatches, pollution concerns, and are reminded of some of the old fishing magazines too.
This is an interesting insight into the fly fishing world that I think you'll find interesting.
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Episode 258 - Aaron Day from Vintage Fishing Tackle
In this episode, I talk with Aaron Day from Vintage Fishing Tackle about his journey from training to be a butcher to a business owner in the fishing tackle industry along with everything in between.
We discuss Aaron's fly fishing career from fishing a stream in Kent to reservoir fishing near his home in Northampton.
I learn about his business ethos, the huge range of rods he sells and the resurgence of bamboo too.
He has boundless enthusiasm for what he does and enjoys everyday of work. If you've not seen the amount of rods and reels he has on offer you'll be amazed!
As ever, this is a free podcast to download and enjoy.
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I felt the need to spend some time standing in a river.
I'm joined by my dog and look at what it means to have him along, the compromises you might have to make but how you can easily make it work.
I talk about the set-up I use, how I make it work and how I might adapt it as the day progresses.
It doesn't have to be complicated and I put everything to the test using some experience, water craft, gut instinct and a little bit of luck too.
I also talk about my worries and concerns over social media and the affect it can have on a fishing day.
Recorded exactly as it happens, I hope you enjoy this edition of the podcast.
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I welcome James Harrold along to this episode where he shares his experiences of owning and running a trout fishery, the challenges faced, and the entrepreneurial spirit required to adapt and thrive in the fishing industry.
He tells me about the transition from moving away from trout to coarse fishing, the emotional impact of closing the trout fishery and why he had to do it.
His fishery recently appeared on the Mortimer and Whitehouse TV show and I learn what goes into making just 13 minutes of TV.
We also talk about his yearly pilgrimage to South Uist, a place that means so much to him.
James is an interesting, open and engaging guest who speaks with great insight into fishing.
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I met Ben on a river recently. I was taken by his great skill as I watched him work his way along the water.
I asked him along to the podcast to find out a little more about his fishing career and to pick up some tips too.
We ended up discussing a lot of topics that are both thought provoking and interesting.
Ben talks with great depth and clarity and I'm pleased we have someone like him in our community. It is a better place as a result of it.
Free to download and advert free.
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I make the drive over to visit Charles Innis at the Half Moon Inn, Sheepwash in Devon.
We talk about his relationship with the inn that goes back to the 1950s when his family took it on as a fishing hotel.
He tells me about his love for the Torridge, looking after guests and running the inn with his brother.
Charles is honest about the good and the not so good times and how a newspaper article made a huge difference to the business.
Now in his 80s he is still deeply involved with the fishing there and shares his deep knowledge and understanding of the river that means so much to him.
I had some rough questions planned but I just pressed record and let the conversation flow in whatever direction it took.
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In this episode, I speak with Wayne McGee, a fishing guide and lodge owner in Alaska.
Wayne shares his journey from a childhood passion for fishing to operating a fishing lodge in the pristine wilderness of Alaska.
He discusses the various species of fish available and the challenges of running a remote lodge.
Wayne also reflects on the importance of family in the business and the joy of introducing guests to the beauty of Alaska's fishing environment.
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I made a promise to myself never to fish competitively after trying it over 25 years ago.
This changed when I entered a friendly competition run by my friends Jethro and Rodney from Fluffchuckers.
The event was run at Chew Valley Lake and the idea was to try and catch as many species as possible.
I'm joined by author and Fly Culture contributor, Ben Jailler, who was captain of the good ship Fly Culture and knows the lake a bit.
Join Ben and me in the boat as we talk, fish and have some fun.
Tune in to find out whether or not I enjoyed trying to be a competitive fly angler.
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In this episode of the podcast, I welcome Trevor Hayman, a seasoned fly fishing guide, to discuss various aspects of fly fishing, particularly on Chalk Streams.
We explore the challenges of the current fishing season, the intricacies of hatch patterns, and Trevor's guiding philosophy.
The conversation delves into the psychology of guiding and the journey to becoming a guide, and the importance of skill development.
We also touch on tackle preferences, the significance of fly lines and leaders, and dream fishing destinations, particularly in the American West.
Hope you enjoy listening to this episode.
As ever, the podcast will remain free to download!
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In this episode of the Fly Culture podcast, Pete engages in a captivating conversation with Richard Miller, exploring his extensive fishing experiences, the evolution of fishing hotels, and the current state of river hatches.
Richard shares his journey from fishing small streams in Dorset to targeting sea trout and salmon, highlighting memorable moments at the Half Moon Hotel.
The discussion also touches on the impact of Airbnb on fishing accessibility and the thriving Dorchester Fishing Club, which boasts a long waiting list. Richard concludes with a musical recommendation, showcasing his diverse taste in music.
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In this episode, I speak with Barry Ord Clarke about his journey in fly fishing and tying, the balance between passion and profession, and the evolution of fly fishing culture.
We discuss Barry's new book, 'The Featherbender's Advanced Fly Tying Techniques', which combines print and digital resources to enhance the learning experience for fly tiers.
Our conversation also touches on the importance of community, the decline of local tackle shops, and the growing interest in fly tying among younger generations.
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Tim Schulz, a fishing guide and author, talks with me abut his experiences fishing in Michigan and Montana along with his latest book 'A Cast Away in Montana'
We talk about the diverse fishing opportunities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, including trout, salmon, and steelhead. Tim shares his love for fishing with dry flies to rising trout and the thrill of sight fishing. He also discusses his preference for bamboo rods and the personal connection he feels with them.
Tim enjoys guiding both experienced anglers and beginners, and he emphasizes the importance of putting the client's experience first.
We look at the process of writing his book and story of a man going to Montana without a serious plan and the adventures that unfold.
We talk about the emotional experience of writing the book and the nervousness of releasing it to the public.
Tim reads an excerpt from the book, highlighting his quest to catch a grayling in the Big Hole River.
I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as me.
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Join me and my friend John Aplin for a days fishing on a chalkstream in Dorset.
This is a tiny stream where landing your fly in some tricky areas is a fun challenge.
The bow and arrow cast is the easiest way to get your fly in the right spot. Careful wading, a slow approach and you might be in the game.
This was a fun days fishing that passed far too quickly as John and I talk about the stream he has known for 40 years and what the fishing in this area means to him.
I hope you'll enjoy coming for a day with us.
Totally unscrpted and unedited, everything is recorded as it happens.
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Alex Redhat, a Ukrainian living in Germany, shares his passion for fly fishing and his experiences fishing for various species.
He discusses how he got into fly fishing and the different types of fish he targets, including trout, grayling, pike, carp, and asp.
He tells me about his fishing experiences in Germany and Poland, as well as his involvement in the Ukrainian fly fishing community.
I learn about his experience with Arctic Silver Fly Fishing rods and the unique concept behind them. He explains how the rods are designed to use minimal energy while still allowing for high-quality casting.
Alex also talks about his scientific background and how it influences his approach to fly fishing. He shares his love for observing fish and how he likes experimenting with fly patterns.
This a wonderful talk with a fascinating person.
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Our community is small and tightly knit. We might not have met everyone but we still share the same common passion for fly fishing.
We lost our friend Kris Kent recently and many of us were deeply affected by it.
The day after the funeral Adrian Grose-Hodge and I headed to the river as we felt we wanted to catch a fish for Kris.
The sun was shining, the water low and clear and not many fish were rising.
Join us as we share our day on the water and remember our friend.
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Join me and my friends Jim Williams and Warren McCarthy for a day on the river.
As ever, I turn up early and do some fishing alone before I sit down and talk with Jim about why he stepped away from fishing for a few years but is now back enjoying it once more.
Warren joins us a little later after we managed to drag him out from his busy rod building schedule.
Does it work having 3 people fishing on the river together and do we catch any fish?
Tune in to find out.
The podcast is recorded exactly as it happens with no edits or re-takes. We just talk about subjects that crop up as we walk along the river.
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In this episode of the Fly Culture podcast, I speak with Jo Stephenson, an experienced angler and fly tyer.
We discuss Jo's appearance at the recent Game Fair, the current state of fly fishing, and her transition from lure fishing to fly fishing.
Jo shares her favourite techniques for pike fishing and talks about her passion for fly tying and tells me about her experiences at the British Fly Fishing Fair.
We talk about her time as a fishing lodge manager in Norway, and her participation in the Big Fish TV program. She also talks about the importance of fishing as a form of relaxation and escape, and her desire to pursue coaching and guiding in the future.
This was a great insight into someone who loves fishing and promotes it in a friendly, positive way.
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In this episode I catch up with Bob Wyatt who tells me about his recent fishing trips to New Zealand and the rivers he fishes near his home in Scotland.
We look at the changing fishing landscape in New Zealand along with the impact of tourism on local rivers, and the decline in water quality due to industrial dairy farming.
Bob also talks about his recent project of fishing with streamers and the success he has had with large brown trout on rivers and lakes.
We reflect on the success of his fly pattern, the Deer Hair Emerger, and the creativity and collaboration that goes into fly tying.
We discuss the importance of essential triggers in fly fishing and the techniques developed through experimentation and observation of trout behaviour.
Bob also touches on the challenges of salmon farming and the efforts to protect wild salmon populations. He mentions his books, 'Trout Hunting' and 'What Trout Want,' and recommends the song 'Boulder to Birmingham' by Emmylou Harris for the Fly Culture Road Trip Mix playlist.
As ever, Bob never disappoints and this episode is a great insight into his fishing life.
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Alex Thrift talks to me about his love of fly fishing and the importance of simplicity in the sport.
He shares his experiences fishing in Wales and North Sweden, as well as his favourite rivers, including the Usk and the Monnow.
Alex also talks about the significance of fishing friends and how they have influenced his journey as a fly fisherman.
He emphasises the joy of using and enjoying fishing gear, rather than keeping it in pristine condition.
We also talk about the current state of the fly fishing landscape, the power of social media in connecting fly fishers globally, the art of writing about fly fishing and dream fishing destinations.
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The walk was a long one but worth it to get to a special little stream.
I've a new cap, some dry flies and a rod I'm looking forward to christening.
I'm joined by my friend Warren and as ever, we talk fishing and so much more.
He also tells me about his new fly fishing venture that involves building great value glass rods and refurbishing old cane rods so that they can be used back out on the water again.
Was the long walk worth it? Tune in and find out!
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I'm joined by Richard Tong to talk about his approach to targeting large trout on dry flies.
The conversation turns out to be more than this as we look at his fly fishing career, talk tackle and the mental approach to making a cast to a fish.
We also talk about the loss of a fish and fishing in New Zealand too.
I describe Richard as a thinking angler in the introduction and you'll see why when you tune in!
Free to download and enjoy.
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It was great as always to be back in the mountains fishing pocket water with dry flies for fast, rising fish.
Before the trip I'd experienced a blip in my relationship with fishing and wanted to see if I could fully reconnect with it.
As ever, the fishing lived up to expectations but it was so much more than that.
I speak with the guides and some of the guests about their fishing and what it means to them.
This podcast spans two back-to-back trips where 12 anglers joined us, friendships were made, trout were caught amid much laughter.
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In this episode I talk with Dave Wiltshire who is a well known fly tyer and angler who has written numerous articles for Fly Fishing and Tying magazine.
We cover a vast range of topics looking at how fishing fits into his life and how he has changed how he approaches fly tying.
We deep dive into what fishing means to him and uncover some interesting ideas on the subject.
For both of us, sharing information and knowledge is important and we discuss how that translates into fishing too.
He tells me about his first visit to the BFFI as a tyer and how he ended up doing an unplanned demo ahead of Oliver Edwards!
As ever, we cover a lot of ground that looks beyond fishing.
Free to download, I hope you enjoy this episode.
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I caught up with Howard Thresher at the tackle shop he runs in Crediton, Devon.
I've known him quite a few years now and I really wanted listeners to hear the story of a river that was completely fished out until he was lucky enough to buy the fishing rights and nurse it back to health. It now holds some pretty special fish.
We also get an intimate insight into how he runs a tackle shop, known locally as the sweet shop, a little differently from the norm.
You'll learn how he stumbled into the industry almost by accident but used his skills in other areas to make the business a success.
I really enjoyed talking with Howard and hope you'll enjoy our conversation just as much.
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I catch up with Dom Garnett to talk about coarse fish on the fly.
Our conversation ended being a whole lot more as we ended up covering some interesting ground.
Dom is open, honest and isn't afraid to share how he feels about fly fishing, how it is seen and what could be done to more attract more people into it.
One not to miss!
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I got talking with Damian at a recent Fly Culture event.
His story is a really interesting one that saw him leave the streams of the Peak District when work took him to Bozeman Montana.
We discuss how he coped with the challenge of moving to a new country, settling in and of course the fishing that he discovered while there.
An engineer by trade we look at the net he has developed that is perfect for the catch and release angler.
Damian also shares some great fishing techniques along with his approach to approaching feeding trout.
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In this episode of the podcast, I talk with Paul Cañada, a writer and journalist who is passionate about fly fishing.
We discuss Paul's experience fishing in Gunnison, Colorado, and his favourite streams in the area.
Paul shares his preference for dry fly fishing and his love for brown trout. He also talks about his fishing style, including his preference for solitude and his rule of catching only two fish before going home.
We touch on Paul's experience fishing in saltwater, particularly for redfish.
Paul also talks about his career as a journalist and how writing has changed over the years. He discusses his book, The Promise, which is a reflection on his life and his deep connection to Colorado. Paul reads a section from the book and shares his plans for future writing projects.
He is a larger than life character that I think you'll enjoy listening to!
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This is an interesting interview.
Paul came into fly fishing via carp, pike and then bass with conventional tackle rather than usual route and headed straight to the coast with a fly rod and discuss whether lure anglers may be the way to get more people to try a fly rod.
We also talk about his first fly rod purchase after being sold a 12wt rod and 5wt line!
Paul spends his time fishing and guiding along the south coast and I learn about him as a person, get some bass fishing info along with plenty of tips.
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I'm sure you'd do the same when you get the chance to fish for 2 days on a remote salmon river.
I made the long journey from the bottom of the country to the top with my flies packed and fingers crossed.
The podcast, recorded on the river, with no retakes on edits is as exactly as it happens and turns out to be about more than just fishing.
Speaking with my friends Lana, Colin and Marcus we look at how our lives revolve around fishing, the journey it has taken us on and the affect it has on us on many levels.
It doesn't matter if you don't salmon fish, you'll be joining fishing friends on the river for their search for a salmon.
Do we get lucky?
Tune in and find out!
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I catch up with my friend Paul Procter to talk about the frustrating season we've experienced so far.
We look at a wide range of subjects that cover fishing, his guiding, fly tying, how quickly the fishing seasons now pass and how to make sure we're fit and agile along with us both having partners who fish.
Although Paul has been a guest on the podcast before the conversation moves in some interesting directions and as well as fishing advice you'll get to know Paul a little better.
I first met Lee some 20 years ago and over that time I have seen his drive, expertise and determination applied to many aspects of fly fishing.
We look at what goes into casting events, what is needed to compete at the highest levels and how it feels to take part.
He tells us about chasing sea trout in salt water in the UK, what he has learnt from decades of mullet fishing and being a fly casting instructor.
He has also been involved with fly line design and has worked on the new Eclipse fly line from UK company, Celestial.
As ever, the conversation just flows in the direction it takes.
I first met Lee some 20 years ago and over that time I have seen his drive, expertise and determination applied to many aspects of fly fishing.
We look at what goes into casting events, what is needed to compete at the highest levels and how it feels to take part.
He tells us about chasing sea trout in salt water in the UK, what he has learnt from decades of mullet fishing and being a fly casting instructor.
He has also been involved with fly line design and has worked on the new Eclipse fly line from UK company, Celestial.
As ever, the conversation just flows in the direction it takes.
It is early April and I am on the Derbyshire Wye with riverkeeper of the Peacock Fishing Club, Jan Hobot.
I learn about the ethos of the club and his minimal rules approach to running it along with the history of the river and it being the only place in the UK with a self-sustaining population of wild rainbow trout.
We make some casts, talk and have a great day on the water.
I have a new rod and hat to christen, do I get lucky?
Jan is excellent company, knows the river intimately and we discover that our backgrounds are very, very similar.
This episode is recorded in front of a live audience at Mallon and Green in Bakewell.
I speak with some fishing experts who share some great advice and information as well as looking at the state of fly fishing.
We had beer and pizza, shared fishing stories and talked about flies before starting the podcast that had no script or re-takes and as ever, the conversation just took the direction it flowed in.
Mallon and Green has become a hub for local fly anglers to gather, share information and to browse some cool gear too.
Visit www.mallonandgreen.co.uk to see more!
I'm pleased to welcome Hans van Klinken to the podcast.
I am sure many of you have used the flies he has developed and I get a look inside the process of how they were developed and how he has used them.
The Klinkhammer Special is now 40 years old and the release of his book - The Klink coincides with this anniversary and I learn about the work that went into it.
This episode becomes more than just a conversation about flies and fishing though as we talk about health, the things he has done publicly and not so publicly to promote fly fishing and his work in the army and the things he saw while serving.
It is a slightly longer episode than normal but it is all the better for being so.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Buy The Klink
Connect with Hans van Klinken
David Pilkington first stepped through the doors of the Arundell Hotel in 1968 to help out on a fishing day and has been there ever since.
I learn about what took him there, what he has seen and the changes he has witnessed both on the river and in fly fishing.
As we sit and talk in the new tackle shop I discover why the local streams mean so much to him and why he has never felt the need to stray far from them.
I've had numerous requests to ask him along and I thoroughly enjoyed catching up to learn his story.
I catch up with Chris Aldred to talk about how he started fly fishing, became an instructor and what he has learned along the way.
He has multiple casting qualifications and we discuss casting tips and the learning process of casting along with what has changed since he qualified as an instructor.
We look at how more people could be brought into fishing and if fly fishing is growing or contracting.
I love that Chris marches to his own beat and has always worked with tackle companies that are a little different. Epic epitomises this and he tells me why he chose this brand.
This is a fun listen that I hope you'll enjoy.
In this episode of the podcast I talk with Damon Valentine about how his life has changed since he was last a guest.
There is a lot to catch up on and we look at how fly fishing is looks and feels right now, his love of sea trout and how he shifted jobs to move full time into film making.
He has also produced a wonderful film called Hooked On Hope about James Gilbraith and his passion for salmon fishing. We talk about the work that went into producing it.
To watch this film just click HERE
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Paul Gaskell to discuss early season on the river and talk about the relationship between creativity and science, the writing process, and the importance of environmental awareness and responsibility. We also discuss the role of collaboration and advocacy in improving water quality.
We then delve into the approach to early season river fishing with plenty of help and tips.
Paul talks about targeting specific hatches, adapting to early season conditions, and transitioning between nymphing and dry fly fishing, and the value of the upstream wet fly.
There is plenty of information in this episode that you'll be able to take with you to the river!
Paul's River Perspectives (monthly): https://fishingdiscoveries.com/river-perspectives-fly-fishing/
USA Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07D3FKPZG/allbooks
UK Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B07D3FKPZG/allbooks
We ran a fly fishing film competition last year and I got the chance to speak with the winner, Owen Bruce.
The conversation turned out to be a whole lot more than films as we discuss the importance of small still waters, wild fish and fly fishing culture.
I learn about what went into making 'The Craft' and how Owen feels about fly fishing..
If you haven't seen our winning film, just click HERE to watch The Craft.
There was a time, not so long ago, when the internet was new. Many of us were figuring out how to use it.
Some of us wrote blogs while some took the concept and developed it further to build an online presence that shared information and ideas for anglers to learn from.
Over the last 30 years Martin Joergensen has built a formidable reputation as the driving force behind Global Flyfisher an online fly fishing resource that was there from the beginning.
I talk with him about what went into making Global Flyfisher what it is today and whether he has felt the need to develop, change and evolve as the digital landscape continues to grow.
We also talk about fishing, what it means to him and how friendship and the company of others is more important now that he is unable to fish in the same way.
I am sure you know his site and will enjoy the story but if not, it is a site that led the way and impacted many of us in fishing over a long period of time.
We are lucky people like Martin are in fly fishing.
I have believed for some time now, that we're evolving as fly anglers.
The warm, dry summers have meant we are looking to catch other species from rivers, canals, lakes or the sea.
I am keen to hear from people who are looking at fly fishing from a different angle and was pleased when Elijah Wait agreed to be a guest on the podcast.
Despite trout being his first love, Elijah will pack his rod for just about any fish he can cast a fly at. He shares plenty of information on how to approach a variety of fish, tells me about the importance of a long rod and shares how to fish streamers for trout in the smallest of streams.
We discuss how fly fishing looks and feels to him and the people who have had an impact on his fishing career.
As a younger angler Elijah talks a lot of sense and he makes me feel that the fly fishing future is in good hands.
I got talking with Elias after he messaged me saying that he'd enjoyed listening to the podcast while shovelling snow at his home in Lapland some 200km north of the Arctic Circle.
I invited him along to learn about the fishing in the area and what it means to him.
I discovered someone who cares passionately about their waterways, some clean enough to drink from, and the huge variety of different fishing options that are on his doorstep but also deeper into the wilderness.
We talk about fishing, flies and whether he is able to keep a tidy fly box.
This is a fascinating look into a place I knew so little about and the wonderful fishing opportunities it has to offer.
This is a special episode of the podcast that is recorded in front of a live audience at Orvis, Stockbridge.
We have Brett O'Connor talking casting tips, Paul Jennings tells us about mullet and Peter Hayes gives a detailed talk on the work he and Don Stazicker have done on the behaviour of trout and the flies we should consider using on the river.
This was recorded with no rehearsal, re-takes or prepared notes. I just let the conversation flow in the direction it took.
I hope you'll enjoy this episode that is fun to listen to and is packed with information.
Join me as I walk the water of the Upper Teign Fishing Association in Devon with committee members Stuart Medford and Harry Chance.
I learn about what the river means to them, how they fish it, the importance of terrestrial flies on this water and the history of the club.
We discuss the issues many fishing clubs have right now and how they are trying to maintain memberships.
I was amazed to learn that the club has 12km of lightly fished trout water (£95 for the year) along with sea trout and the chance of salmon too.
This was a chance for me to shout about clubs like this one that need membership income to survive and if we aren't able to support them we could be in danger of losing them which I can't stand by and let happen.
If you have a fishing club you'd like me to highlight please contact me and I'll do everything I can to help.
It is great to have Colin Macleod back on the podcast and cover a lot of ground with him.
We talk about trying to keep fly boxes tidy, the culture of fishing shops, not worrying about not knowing the answer, the pressures of social media and plenty more.
His life has taken a new direction as he is now looking after Nam Fishing Products in the UK and he tells us about their ethos, the products and what he has planned for the coming year.
This was fun to record. I hope you'll enjoy this episode.
I talk about what fly fishing means to Michelle Werrett and how she has been captivated by the many streams that flow off of Exmoor in the West Country.
I learn about her fly fishing history and and the rivers where she loves to cast a fly.
Her passion for these places runs deep and as a result, she has written a book called Song of the Streams that takes us to the rivers that flow from the moor and shares her fishing experiences there with us.
It is a beautifully crafted piece of work that as fly anglers we are lucky to be able to read.
She also reads a short section from one of the chapters about the River Mole and a rising trout that I am sure many of us will smile when we hear. We've all been there!
Rodney Wevill can truly be described as a fly fishing allrounder.
He is equally at home on the trout streams and still waters of Devon and Cornwall, catching pike from the Somerset Levels, mullet and bass from the coast along with bonefish and permit from the flats of the Caribbean.
I learn about his fly fishing story and how it helped him through a difficult time in his life.
We also talk about fishing tips, the unnecessary pressure of posting on social media and his plans for 2024.
He is great company and talks with a deep fondness about our pastime.
Keith McDonell is a self-confessed streamer addict and in this podcast we get a good look inside his thought process on this method of fishing.
From the patterns, how to approach the water as well as how to cast heavier flies there is a lot of information to pick up if you're streamer curious and want to try it in the coming season.
We also talk about practice casting drills and our shared love of the Fender Rhodes electric piano for a few moments too.
There is a lot in this podcast that I hope you'll find useful.
It is the season to be merry, or is it?
James Gilbraith joins me to talk about fishing, our shared hatred of festive decorations, Christmas TV, music and AI.
He tells us about throwing a computer out of a window and then making sure it is dead after finishing it with an iron, amongst other very amusing stories.
He also reads a short section from his latest book that will have you laughing out loud.
This is an alternative Christmas podcast from the norm that I hope you'll enjoy!
Steve Duda has an impressive CV.
From editing a music magazine, writing for Rolling Stone and then editing The Flyfish Journal for many years.
He helped define a culture of fly fishing that looked way beyond numbers or size of fish.
The Flyfish Journal had a profound impact on many in the US, along with people like me in Europe too.
Steve now works at Patagonia where he heads Fish Tales, curating and creating fly fishing content for the company.
He also reads a section from his upcoming book 'River Song' that tells of a trip to the UK on a music tour, passing river after river and not being able to fish. It is funny and beautifully observed.
This is an episode I think you'll enjoy.
I talk with Jim Curry about his fishing season, how fishing looks right now and the growth areas of our sport.
He also talks what it is like to work for the fishing brand Guideline along with new products, the company ethos and how they prefer to stick with a range until they think there is a new technology that will help them improve upon it rather than just making cosmetic changes every few years.
This is a really interesting look inside a brand that is open, revealing and a fun listen.
As ever, Jim didn't ask to come onto the podcast I heard they were doing some interesting things and wanted to learn some more about them.
I hope you enjoy this episode.
Sometimes an event can have a profound effect on our lives and make us question the direction we are taking.
I talk with Mark Roberts about such an event that made him quit a secure teaching job to follow his passion for fly fishing.
His day to day work involves selling flies, coaching and guiding but he is hoping this will develop into something extra that will help others to get outside and experience our pastime.
He also shares the story of his capture of a 4lb+ grayling that many of us dream of.
This is a deeply moving story that I hope you will enjoy hearing about.
I catch up with Adam to see how fly fishing looks through the eyes of an angler in his twenties.
The conversation turned into something a whole lot more as I discovered that I was talking with someone who has a deep understanding of fly fishing, the behaviour of fish along with the environment too.
I learn about why he likes to fish lighter flies for grayling, where to look for them on a new water, his rule of 3, why you should tie your own flies and why he loves wild trout so much.
He talks with great eloquence and passion about what fly fishing means to him too.
This is a wonderful episode that highlights how lucky we are to have people like Adam in fly fishing.
The term 'to influence' is used a little too easily these days although it is definitely correct to use this when describing my guest - Howard Croston.
There is little doubt Howard has had an impact on us as fly anglers either directly or indirectly over the years.
From designing rods for Hardy and Greys for a number of years to the articles he has written giving us an insight into the techniques used at the very highest levels of competition fishing that have helped shape us as fly anglers.
We discuss what goes into rod design, his fly fishing timeline, what it is like not to do well in a competition and how to deal with it to what it feels like to be fly fishing world champion.
This is an honest and open look into the mindset of someone who has a great dedication to our pastime, we're lucky to have him in fly fishing.
Free to download.
I catch up with Andy Taylor to talk about a wide range of fly fishing topics. We look at the state of small still water scene, grayling on dries, encouraging more people into fishing and the route he took into fly fishing which is a unique one after his father dug some commercial trout lakes.
We talk fly fishing instruction, competition fly fishing and what Andy has learnt from it.
We also cover fishing tackle and finding the right gear at the right price.
He has also edited fly fishing magazines and we talk a little about what is involved.
This episode covers a lot of ground that I feel sure you’ll enjoy listening too.
I reached out to Mark Paterson after seeing him embark on a new venture in fly fishing retailing.
I always try my best to support our community especially those trying something a little different.
During this recording and a number of previous phone calls I discovered someone who believes in the highest level of customer service, has sourced interesting products and has a passion for fly fishing.
For me, I got the chance to try a rod brand that I've been wanting to cast for a while, try some super slick fly lines and I learn about a brand of waders that are incredibly durable.
We also discuss social media, the company of friends and I hear about the River Dee.
There was quite a response from listeners after Martin Smith last appeared on the podcast.
Previously he had talked about taking on water companies after the had continued to pollute his club waters.
I get an update on what has happened since that should provide inspiration for the many others who are having to contend with similar issues.
He also talks about fishing clubs and how the one he is secretary of has gone from strength to strength in recent years.
This is a really important podcast that tackles issues that affect all of us as anglers and Martin has practical advice on the subject. I hope you'll get a lot from this episode.
I've been asked many times if someone would interview me for the podcast.
I've dodged this a number of times but after getting a call from Ben Jailler a few weeks back I finally agreed.
Ben does an amazing job of taking the reins as we talk about fishing, the magazine, life changing events along with my interests away from fishing.
I had no idea what the questions would be but he'd done plenty of homework in what I hope you'll find an interesting interview.
Fishing a stream with some rising trout, spending time with a friend or just being there alone.
We all enjoy these moments and it turns out it doesn't matter where we are in the world, many of us feel the same.
I talk with Ben Mackereth, who is based in Australia, about the fishing community and culture of Australia but also about what he discovered while he lived in British Colombia for 5 years too.
He writes for The Drake, Fly Life and Fly Culture and we look at the writing process and how he had his first fishing article published at the age of 16.
He has also set up The Torrent (www.thetorrent.com.au) a website that works to let fly anglers know globally what is happening with environmental issues on waterways of the world.
This is a conversation between 2 fly anglers who love our pastime just like you!
Welcome to the 200th episode of the podcast!
In this special edition I sit down with Peter Hayes and Don Stazicker to talk about about their latest book, The Flies That Trout Prefer.
We discuss what they found from years of detailed observation and how they shared their findings with readers.
Peter and Don have drilled down into why trout behave in the way they do, their preferences when feeding and have even explored the eye sight of fish.
They have left no stone unturned and will make you look at fly selection and behaviour of trout in a completely different way.
This couldn't be a better episode to celebrate a small milestone for this podcast.
Buy The Flies That Trout Prefer HERE
I often ask guests of the podcast for their dream fishing destination. Near the top of the list is, hardly surprisingly, Montana.
I thought it would be interesting to get the inside track from someone who lives there, fishes and guides around the state.
Eric 'Vern" Strader tells me about his love of the area, the fishing across a variety of waters, the hatches along with the fishing culture too.
We get an insiders view of living there, the effect of the TV show Yellowstone on Montana, where guides meet up after work and the strange transactions that take places there!
You may not ever visit Montana but this is a wonderful interview that will appeal to any fly angler.
I catch up with Geoff Hadley for this edition of the podcast.
We look at the various species he likes to cast a fly at and some tips too.
We discuss his fishing timeline and the recent article he has written for Fly Culture that looks at introducing his 2 sons to fly fishing.
Geoff is hugely enthusiastic about fly fishing and loves to catch any species on the fly.
I feel sure his enthusiasm will rub off on you and inspire you to take a look at species you hadn't though of previously casting a fly to.
I talk with Dave Smith about his home river, the Monnow and learn a little about what it means to him.
I plan rough questions for these podcasts as I prefer the conversation take the route it follows.
While recording this episode I discover a truly beautiful story about a difficult time that was aided by fly fishing. It is deeply moving.
I also find out what a Raspberry Trout is and talk fly fishing train wrecks with Dave too.
I talk with Gordon van den Spuy about his latest book, The Feather Mechanic II.
I learn about how he views fly fishing and tying but also about his approach to life too.
He is a fascinating guest who views fishing through a slightly different lens that will, without a doubt, have you thinking differently about your approach to fishing.
It is clear that he has poured part of his soul into producing his latest book that is more than just fly tying recipes, it is a whole lot more.
I talk with Ben Perrin about the many hours of work that goes into hand making one of his fishing reels. Each one is unique and has a soul.
I also hear about an event that was without a doubt life changing. Ben talks about it the way he does about his reels, with great modesty.
This is a riveting listen that will give you an insight into the process of a true artisan.
I have had many people contact me and ask if I will get James Gilbraith back on the podcast. I am pleased to say he has joined me for this episode.
We just talk about fishing, how the outlook for salmon feels, fishing clubs, the state of rivers, AI, how it might affect writers and fly patterns.
As ever, James looks at things in a unique and humorous way that as ever, is a great listen.
It is great to be back in Italy with good friends, amazing guides and fabulous coffee.
Join us for 3 days of fishing in a mix of streams. There are some amazing fish caught, plenty of laughs and of course, I manage to fall in!
The trip proved that there is more to fishing than the fish. It is about friends, the places we go and things that we experience together.
We'll be running the trip again next year and if you'd like to come along just drop me a line at pete@flyculturemag.com
I'm joined by Lyn Davies to talk about the rivers he fishes in Wales and the close relationship with fishing that runs through his family.
We talk about day time sea trout and rising trout along with his work as a designer and photographer for fishing books and magazines.
Lyn is a kind and generous person who is extremely modest about his fly fishing career.
Duncan Philpott lived just a short walk from his home trout stream.
A change in his life meant he now lives in Sweden where he has to travel to get his fishing fix.
We talk about the differences in the fishing, a huge trout on a dry fly and his work that involves researching disease in trout.
Duncan is also an accomplished photographer who has shot a front cover for Fly Culture and has also written about a lock down rod build.
Duncan is great company who talks with a deep love of our pastime.
I welcome James Waine back to the podcast.
We talk about the strange fishing season we have had so far and what he has noticed about it.
We also look at how to approach a feeding fish and discuss fly patterns too.
He has also started guiding and we look at what went into the decision and how he has found it so far.
We cover plenty of ground in an interesting and thought provoking episode.
I welcome Fly Culture contributor James Barry along to the podcast.
We talk about his fishing career, the places he fishes along with a few quick fire questions and the day that didn't go to plan.
He is also a fisheries scientist who looks closely at salmon and we talk about what he has discovered along with the threats they continue to face.
James is great company and as a result this is a podcast you are sure to enjoy!
My guest for this podcast is Nico Vreugdenhil, the man behind Yamame Fly Rods.
We talk about how he got into rod making, dd his change of career turn out the way he hoped and the glass fly rod revolution.
Nico tells us about his fishing history and why he loves to build and fish glass and graphite rods.
I talk with John Henderson about fishing and his career with Hardy and Greys.
From knocking at the door of Greys and asking for work experience several years ago he has stayed with the firm in a variety of roles.
We talk about the changes he has seen in the industry, tackle advancements and a day on the water where everything didn't go as planned.
John has a fascinating story that he tells in an amusing and engaging way.
From the age of 4 Katka was casting a fly rod.
After leaving university she embarked on a career in fly fishing that has taken her around the world.
She is a skilled angler who has been Czech Republic Champion 6 times and has represented her country a number of times in competition fly fishing and in 2022 achieved silver in the individual class of the World Championship.
Katka looks at fly fishing in an interesting and thoughtful way preferring to focus on the bigger picture of our pastime rather than just the fish.
This is a story about determination and passion of someone wanting to work in the fly fishing industry.
Katka speaks with openness and honesty about what fly fishing means to her.
I talk with Dave Southall about why he likes to fish with light lines and small flies.
We also talk about hatches along with a caddis fly that I learnt a lot about.
He also has lots of fishing tips that make fishing small flies a lot easier.
This episode is packed with information that you'll find useful.
You may recognise the name of my guest. He was tying flies at fishing shows from the age of 8 and was working in his parents shop, Fly Only in Yorkshire, for a number of years.
We talk about why he is now in Devon, what it is like to have a life that revolved around fly fishing and we catch a few fish including a surprise too!
Dylan is a talented fly angler and tyer who was casting a fly rod from a very early age.
I talk with Keith Passant about his love of fly fishing, where it started and the places he likes to fish.
He is a skilled fly tyer who has attained the AAPGAI fly tying qualification at Masters level and so there are plenty of tips and advice and as ever, I ask, do we really need a lot of flies?
Keith also ran the fishing section of the Orvis Store in Burford that if you were lucky enough to visit you'd know it was a special place.
He has done a lot for our pastime and is one of the 'good guys' who does a lot without the need for recognition.
We are lucky he is part of our world.
I am joined on the river with Westcountry fly angler and guide Harry Chance.
We talk about his love of fishing the small streams of Devon, look for some rising trout along with his work with the Environment Agency.
We talk tactics and enjoy time together on the river.
I catch up with Tiger Stamp and talk about his fishing career, how the fishing landscape looks and what his non-fishing friends make of him packing waders and rods and heading out to the river.
He is the sort of angler who thinks deeply about his approach to fishing and we talk about how he will fish a particular method and how he gets success from it.
There is some great information and advice that I hope you'll enjoy listening to.
Join me for the day as I fish Chew Valley Lake for pike with my friend Jethro Binns.
He shares plenty of tips and information for any one who is interested in pike on the fly but the day turns out to be a lot more than just this.
It is about friends fishing together and talking about what our pastime means to us with a few special fish along the way.
This podcast is recorded exactly as it happens. There has been no editing, retakes or scripts. You'll hear it exactly as the day unfolds and I hope you'll enjoy this as much as I did.
I catch up with Tim Smith who has had a varied and interesting life in fly fishing.
From guiding, gaining casting qualifications and editing a fly fishing magazine he has done a lot.
He also runs a farm and we talk about the effects farming has on the environment.
Tim is an entertaining guest who you're going to enjoy listening to.
I talk with Sid Hiscox and Declan Morrison about their friendship and love of fly fishing.
We discuss whether you need to take phone fishing with you, where and why they fish and their fly fishing train wrecks along with a couple from my long list of them too.
They are the people behind the clothing brand Fera and have just released a fly fishing range called 'Trout Bum'
We talk about what went into launching it and why most fly fishing gear is green.
They are young and a breath of fresh air and are working hard to inject some colour into our pastime.
If you're a reader of Fly Culture or The Drake, you will have come across the writing of my guest today.
Johannes lives and breathes fly fishing and having left the fishing in Finland he is now back in Ireland and has a wealth of experience that we touch on in this episode.
From floating streamer patterns to pike on the fly via sea trout we cover a lot of ground.
I have always maintained that Johannes only speaks when he has something to say and when he does, it is worth listening to.
I catch up with Zoe to find out what fishing means to her especially the streams that flow off of Dartmoor in Devon.
Her background in fishing came from fishing the Catskills in the US before heading home to Devon. I learn about her experiences and what fly fishing means to her.
We also discuss the connection we all have with fly fishing and how it can mean different things to different people.
We cover a lot more ground including her 80,000 word PHD thesis that was based around fly fishing.
Zoe is a passionate fly angler who was extremely articulate and thought provoking during our discussion.
How many fishing clubs should you be a member of? What do you do if you get an emergency call and the river is alive with salmon?
I discuss these questions and many more with my guest James Gilbraith.
We also talk about his latest book, Anarchy Pie, that carries on from his previous books, Terminal Chancer and Hooked on Hope.
Jame is an entertaining and very funny guest who will have you laughing out loud when you are listening to this episode!
More from James HERE
Join me for a cold, wet and windy day fishing the streams of Dartmoor with my friend Warren.
The plan was to see if we can catch a fish on a dry fly in some pretty extreme conditions.
Do we manage it?
I also give plenty of tips and advice on how to fish these small streams along with what you need and don't need.
I hope this will prove useful if you're planning on heading into the Moors but if not, join me for a day of fishing.
I talk with Ed Engle, author of Fishing Small Flies and Tying Small Flies about how to tie and fish small flies.
As a former guide of 20 years he shares a lot of fishing tips too.
We also discuss his book Splitting Cane and what fishing bamboo rods mean to him.
From his home in Colorado, he talks with great affection about his home river, The South Platte and the other places he likes to fish.
I hope you'll enjoy this episode as much as me.
In this episode I'm joined by guide and passionate angler, Stuart Wardle who shares a wealth of advice on how to fish a trout stream early in the season.
We talk about how to prepare, approach the water, make the cast and cover a trout.
We de-bug the 'must have' fly story and concentrate on presentation to get the best results when fishing.
Stuart is great company and open with his advice.
My guest for this podcast has been the most requested by listeners and I am pleased to say that he joins me to talk about fishing, flies, bamboo rods, salmon fishing in Scotland and his new book, All the Time in the World.
This is an interesting and entertaining talk with one of the most influential and loved writers in fly fishing.
This an episode not to be missed!
Join me for the day as I walk the famous chalk stream, The Frome with friends John Aplin and John Grindle.
What was planned as a days fishing turned out to be so much more as we eat a great breakfast, catch up, see John's amazing rod room, talk about fishing and of course, the famous grayling of The Frome!
Clement Booth first caught a trout from a stream near his home in South Africa in the 1960s.
He didn't have a fly rod but improvised using a fly line and old spinning rod.
It turned out to be the start of a long association with fly fishing that continued on the streams and salt water in South Africa before moving to the alpine streams of Germany and then on to the chalk streams of the UK.
We talk about the things he has learnt during this time and how fly fishing has been and continues to be such a large part of his life.
In this episode I start the day with fried breakfast and good coffee with my friend Toby Merrigan.
We head over to Tiverton to fish the Exe and see if we can find some grayling.
We talk about what it was like to build a fly fishing brand, sell it and move away from the industry completely.
Toby was behind Funky Fly Tying and as someone who fished regularly with him from its inception I got to see it grow into a successful business.
I ask Toby some testing questions that he answers with great insight and honesty.
Do we catch some grayling?
Tune in and find out.
I welcome Jim Murray back to the podcast to talk about the new season, what to look forward to and where he is heading.
We also discuss what went into his TV program Robson and Jim's Icelandic Adventure and the much anticipated second series that will be out in April.
We spend time on his new project Activist Anglers that focuses on bringing anglers and non-anglers together to understand how they can help with environmental issues that affect fish and waterways.
Activist Anglers on Instagram
Activist Anglers on Twitter
Jamie Lee has spent most of his life travelling the world with a fly rod in his hand.
From a fishing career that started in Devon he has worked as a ghille in Ireland, spent countless hours sleeping on rocks hoping to catch black marlin in Australia, chased steelhead in British Colombia, has run a lodge in Russia and travelled extensively through the country there before settling by the banks of the Spey in Scotland.
Has he finally found home?
This is a brutally honest and open account of his life so far that is a must listen to episode.
Do you have a river that really gets under your skin?
Laurens Bubendorfer does. It is the Soca in Slovenia. His passion for it grew and grew to the extent that he left his job and home in Austria to move next to the Soca in Slovenia.
We talk about what the Soca means to him, how they are trying to re-introduce native Marble Trout back into the river and fishing dogs.
He has also made an amazing film called Emerald Paradise that took a number of years to film to ensure it captured everything that makes this river so special for Laurens.
It was a pleasure to speak with someone who feels just like we do about fly fishing.
See the preview for Emerald Paradise HERE
Connect with Laurens HERE
A friend says he's heading to Patagonia to fish for sea trout and there is a spare spot. Would I like to come?
I am sure you can guess the answer and I found myself standing on the banks of the Rio Gallegos.
This podcast is of course about the sea trout but it is a whole lot more. I discover a lot about the people, the area and myself as an angler too.
It was a life changing trip for me and even if you never intend visiting, I promise you will enjoy this episode
I got the chance to visit Rio Gallegos in Patagonia.
Although the area is most famous for sea trout there is some amazing trout fishing on the main river but there is an amazing spring creek called Rio Chico that in parts, you could jump across.
Despite the size though the trout there grow to incredible sizes and if you can land your dry fly in the right place you better hold on!
Join me for the few hours I spent on this special piece of water.
More from Bella Sofia Lodge
Diego Castillo
Marcel Appelhanz
Machado Outdoor
I catch up with Sandy Nelson and talk with him about the fantastic guide he has put together for the hatches on his local river, The Don.
I have always felt we owe the fish to try and learn a little more about what they are eating and Sandy's guide is the perfect way to do so without getting overly technical.
We talk about what went into it, get some tips along with fly patterns you might find useful.
Although the guide is specific to The Don, the hatches are just the same as you'll encounter on your home water.
We also talk about rods too.
This is a slightly longer version of the podcast as we cover so much ground but I feel sure you will get plenty from it.
Click here to see Sandy's fly guide
Click here to see Sandy's fly box
I first spoke to Simon Holme 3 or so years ago after he phoned me for some advice about how to go about working in the fishing industry.
His tenacity meant he landed his first job as a guide in Iceland and after that he booked himself a flight to New Zealand where he has spent time living in a van and fishing the crystal clear rivers for trout.
I talk with him about his experience as a guide, the fishing he has encountered on his travels and what he has learnt about himself as an angler and person.
Still in his twenties he is a wonderful advert for the future of our pastime.
Join me as I take you through the tackle I've used and liked, a few fishing tips and a look at the season that has finished and the one that is to come.
Recorded in one take, this was a fun look at the gear I've enjoyed using and why.
I should mention that there is no product placement nor have I been paid for mentioning any of the products.
I catch up with fly angler, photographer and good guy Matt Harris to see how much things have changed since we last caught up.
Travel has opened up but have the fish been biting?
I find out along with plenty more including hearing about the time that went into producing his new book The Fish of a Lifetime
Matt is an honest and open person that meant we could cover some interesting ground.
More at The Fish of a Lifetime
I head over to Denmark to catch up with my good friend Ray.
We talk about the places we've been, the adventures we've shared while looking for sea trout in the fjords.
I meet some great people, cover plenty of water and share the fishing with you.
This was a special trip with some surprises along the way. Not all of them happy.
I welcome back Simon Gawesworth to the podcast.
We cover many subjects including fishing, casting, fly lines and how he has come full circle and is back teaching fly fishing again.
We also talk about the second edition of Single Handed Spey Casting and why spey casts should be an important part of the fly anglers arsenal.
One of the nicest people in fly fishing, the conversation is a fun, light hearted look at a fishing life.
Watch the Trout Spey Video here
I talk to Sean Morrissey about his passion for fly fishing and film making.
We discuss fishing methods, whether we need a lot of flies and streamer fishing too.
He tells me about his excellent film Dream Stream, what went into making it and what he has learnt about himself as a film maker and angler.
Sean is an engaging person who talks with great sense about our pastime.
Watch Dream Stream HERE
I catch up with Simon Jefferies, International Sales Director for Cortland Fly Lines.
We talk about his fishing career, his previous life as a golf pro and the similarities with fly casting and golf, why the AFTMA scale for fly lines isn't working and the demise of the "influencer".
We cover a lot of really interesting ground in an open and honest conversation.
We can often think of corporate entities as faceless but Simon shows that often, the people working at many companies are just like you and me and love fly fishing like we do.
I catch up with writer Adrian Latimer to talk about his new book Sketches with a Fly Rod. We get a good look at what went into writing it along with Adrian reading a short excerpt from it.
We also talk about fishing, the creative process and the places he has visited with a fly rod.
It is also worth mentioning that this is his seventh book and like all the others, all of the the proceeds to fishing charities.
I talk with CEO of Wildfish (formerly Salmon and Trout Conservation) about the work he has done since taking on the role.
We also discuss fishing and the new initiative they have introduced called 'Off the Menu' where they are engaging the wider population about the damage salmon farms are doing to the environment along with the poor practices involved in this process.
As Christmas is fast approaching and a time when salmon might be on the menu, all I'd ask is that you give this podcast a listen and tell non-fishing family members about what is happening and why we should not be eating farmed salmon.
Nick is a smart and engaged person who is prepared to keep fighting on all fronts for the fish that inhabit our waterways.
Read more from the Wildfish website
I talk at depth with Paul Gaskell about fishing, fish behaviour and cover some of the topics covered in his latest book "The Nature of Fly Fishing"
If you are an angler who likes to understand both fly selection and its impact on the fish then you will get a lot from this episode.
Podcast Takeover pt4
In the final episode, Pete and Jon go dark to fish the Avon in Bristol’s Industrial heartland at Netham Weir. Will they uncover the silver they’re searching for?...
Including an interview with Luke Kozac, Environmental Project Manager for the Environment Agency, Wessex region.
Join me as I hit the road in search of wild carp on the fly with 2 good friends.
We fish clear water, stalk carp and discuss everything you'll need to know about tackling carp on the fly.
I've never caught a wild carp on a fly before. Do I get lucky?
Tune in and find out!
Podcast takeover Pt3
“ Word is that the mayfly are hatching on the Bristol Frome. Pete and Jon head down to the river to see if they can tempt one of its legendary trout during this fishy food festival.
Including an interview with George Clark, (former) Project Manager for Bristol Avon Rivers Trust @bristolavonrt “
In this special, 150th podcast I get the chance to speak with author, fly tyer, podcaster and fly angler Tom Rosenbauer.
We look at his career with Orvis and many other subjects from how many fly boxes we carry, fly rod technology, travelling, social media and much more.
Tom is an amusing and engaging guest who enjoyed being the other side of the mic!
I hope you will enjoy this episode as much as me.
Buoyed by their success on the Trym, Pete and Jon venture into unfamiliar territory on the Colliter’s Brook, Pigeonhouse Stream and Malago. What unexpected treasures will they discover in South Bristol’s hidden gems?
Including an interview with trout scientist, Dan Osmond
Lana Richardson has lived her life around fishing.
From an early age, she had a fly rod in her hand and was catching trout and salmon.
We talk fishing and discuss whether it makes sense to step outside the box every now and again.
Lana has an infectious enthusiasm for our pastime that you'll be sure to enjoy.
Bristol would never be the first place that springs to mind when it comes to casting a fly for wild brown trout.
When Pete and Jon discovered their humble local stream was home to them it led to the question – where else in the city might they be?
The Fishtolian documents their search throughout the rivers and streams of Bristol for more trout and what else they discovered along the way...
Pete and Jon head towards their local urban stream in NW Bristol with mic and a fly rod in search of wild brown trout…
Rolfe Pilve is drummer in the Finnish rock band Stratovarius along with being a long time fly angler too.
We talk about catching sea trout from pocket water, swinging flies for salmon, what it is like to audition with a band and much more!
I spend the day on the Test with Will Shropshire.
We talk fishing, catch a few fish and he tells me about his book, Silver Ghosts, that is a fictional fishing story about a teenager who is in danger of veering off the rails until he discovers salmon fishing.
Will wrote the book to try and encourage youngsters into fishing with all proceeds going to worthy causes.
This is more than just a day fishing. It is a wonderful story about a man who cares.
Are chalkstreams all mown banks and stocked fish?
We know the answer to this is no and I speak to Roger Fagan from the Wilton Fly Fishing Club located on the banks of the Wylye about their "fish first" policy when it comes to the management of their waters.
Roger talks openly about the work that goes into the club and their progressive approach to fly fishing.
It took some doing but we finally got to Italy for our Fly Culture trip to fish the mountain rivers and streams of Trentino.
Join me and the group for our fishing adventure and hear how we got on as it happened on the water.
Did we have a good time?
Tune in and find out!
Raymond Rainbird has been a fly angler from a young age. From the streams and lakes of South Africa to the rivers of the UK his passion for our pastime burns bright.
We talk about his fly fishing timeline along with many other subjects including the age demographic of fly anglers.
He has been involved in the tackle industry for many years and is now distributor of Douglas Rods and Shilton reels in the UK.
As with all of the podcasts there has been no payment to promote the products, I reached out to Raymond to learn about the rods as they were a brand I knew little about and wanted to know more.
In the latest episode I catch up with Fly Culture contributor and author Ben Jailler to talk about his new book Fish Camp Fail and learn about the fishing he loves, his pathological fear of the dark, wild fishing and werewolves.
This is a highly entertaining podcast that I am sure you'll enjoy!
From an early age, Colin has been mesmerised by salmon and I get the chance to speak with him about what they mean to him.
He works as a gillie and also is a content creator for the Loop Tackle Company.
He confesses to be 'Salmon Bum' and we look at the term along with social media and its uses both good and not so good.
He is also a successful musician who makes some great tunes.
John Hunter is a journalist who started his career in newspapers before joining David Hall and his publishing house. He has written articles about coarse, sea and game fishing.
He was editor of the trade magazine, Tackle and Guns for 17 years and is currently editor of Tackle Trade World.
He has also organised the fishing village at the Game Fair for 5 years.
We talk about the tackle industry, give and inside look into publishing a magazine and of course, talk fishing.
Join me as I spend some time fishing for trout on the Torridge in Devon with author Wayne Thomas.
It turns out to be more than just a day fishing as we talk about the history of the river, the books that have been written about it and the future for it too.
I catch up with Mark Leggett and talk about his company, Alternative Tackle.
I learn about the ethos of the company, working and promoting artisan rod builders and what makes a perfect day on the water.
Alternative tackle are a unique company that look at things differently. I hope you'll find the story an interesting one.
I catch up with Fly Culture contributor, film maker and all round good guy Tim Pottage.
We talk about his passion for the fishing around London, what goes into making a fly fishing film and representing minorities in our pastime.
We cover a lot of ground in an interesting and thought provoking episode.
I talk with Sam about his career as a sculptural artist and his muse - fish.
He is also a incredibly keen fly angler who loves to tackle trout, salmon and saltwater species too.
I get a sense of Sam as an angler and as a person too in a fun and interesting episode.
I catch up with fly fishing fanatic and guide Geoff Johnston.
We end up talking about what fishing means to us and chat about how we approach our river fishing and things that we have noticed while out on the water.
As often happens, the conversation just naturally flows and we cover plenty of ground that you're sure to find informative and interesting.
I catch up with guide and instructor Chris Hague.
We talk about setups and techniques for dry fly fishing, nymphing along with something for salmon anglers too.
I also talk with him about his fishing career and what it is like to be a guide and instructor.
Join me for a day on the river in the company of my good friend, Warren McCarthy as we search for mayfly feeding trout on my home water of the River Taw in Devon.
There are some surprises along the way in an unedited 'as it happens' podcast.
Valentine Warner has been in and around the food industry for many years working as a chef, caterer, food writer and TV presenter.
From an early age he has had a fly rod in his hand and his love of our pastime burns just as bright as ever.
We talk fishing, food, the state of our rivers and much more.
Aside from an extremely successful career in the music industry, Alex Clare is a passionate fly angler.
I talk with him about what fishing means to him, the creative process of making music, redfish and fishing the day of a concert.
He is an extremely engaging and entertaining person who you'll enjoying listening to.
I talk with artist David Miller about what goes into his beautiful paintings of fish.
He is over 30 years into a career that has made him one of the most well known in his field of work.
We cover a lot of ground in an open and frank conversation that is thought provoking and that I hope you will find interesting.
I talk with writer David Profumo about how his life has intertwined with fly fishing from an early age, how fishing has changed since he began casting a rod and angling mentors.
We also discuss his book "The Lightning Thread" a beautiful piece of writing about our pastime.
I catch up with Steve Lum and have the sort of conversation you probably have with your fishing friends about the price of tackle, rods we have known, loved and lost and if the second-hand tackle market is the place to search out a bargain.
We cover plenty of ground in a lively and interesting conversation.
I talk with Roger Taylor about his life in the Eden Valley, his deep passion for his home river of the same name and the beautiful wooden nets he makes.
We cover plenty of ground as I learn about his home water and the work of an artisan craftsman making a high quality product for anglers the world over.
Aitor is based in Spain where he teaches fly casting and guides anglers on his local rivers. He is a passionate dry fly angler who lives and breathes fly fishing.
I talk with him about fishing, dry flies, casting and pick up many tips along the way.
Steven Murgatroyd is a regular contributor to Fly Culture and a long time fly angler.
I talk with him about his fishing career, talk tackle and the price of it along with his new book "The Last Chance Fishing Club" where all proceeds go to the Wild Carp Trust
I caught up with Jethro Binns to learn about his passion for pike and saltwater species along with the excellent film Taith he has produced that takes us on a pike fishing road trip.
Our conversation ended up being much more than this as I discovered about his life away from the water and how fishing has played such an important part in balancing the competitive world he used to inhabit as a professional sportsman.
I catch up with Charlie Brownlow to talk about his passion for Norfolk Chalkstreams, salmon fishing and his business, Fin Hunter, that upcycles old waders and makes them into some great fishing products.
This is my first "on the water" podcast where I spend a day fishing with friend and Fly Culture contributor, Ben Jailler.
We spend the day stalking trout in crystal clear water on a secret lake that he calls his home water.
It was a fun day with plenty of fish that I am sure you will enjoy.
In this episode I am joined by Daire Whelan who is a Fly Culture contributor and author of the book Haunted by Waters.
I learn about what went into putting the book together along with his fishing career, what fishing means to him, conservation along with a lot more.
He is an engaging guest who I am sure you will enjoy listening to.
I catch up with Matt and Stuart and talk about what they are looking forward to from the coming trout season.
We also talk about fishing with a friend, road trips and much much more.
This was fun to record and get just a little excited about the 2022 trout season.
If you are a reader of Fly Culture you'll have seen the articles Jeroen has written.
In this podcast, I learn about the fishing he enjoys in the Netherlands including catching coastal sea trout and asp.
I discover that after writing about fly fishing for 25 years that he prefers to keep a low profile and we talk about catch and release and angling celebrities.
We cover many subjects that I feel sure you'll find interesting.
I talk with April Vokey about her career in fishing. We discuss the highs and lows along with what it takes to make a success in a difficult to navigate industry.
We were supposed to talk about her life in 10 fly rods but we just let the conversation flow in whatever direction it took.
I hope you enjoy this one!
I catch up with Paul Jennings to talk about mullet and bass fishing, get some tips and learn about his fishing career.
We also talk coffee and moving to Los Angeles to follow his dream in the music industry.
We cover plenty of ground and hope you'll enjoy this episode.
From his base in Scotland, Will Shaw spends his time casting flies to trout, salmon and pike.
His fishing timeline is fascinating and starts in Manchester and ends in Scotland via Christmas Island, Montana and Cape Cod.
He is also a casting instructor who is interested in understanding how people pick up physical skills like fly casting.
Will is an engaging and entertaining guest who, I'm sure, you will enjoy listening to.
It's fair to say that Chris Flay loves fly fishing. He hits the river whenever time allows and has been doing some serious grayling fishing over the winter.
He has been fishing from an early age and I learn about his passion for our pastime and how it has helped during difficult times.
I catch up with Lee Watts and look at his fishing career, the wide range of species he likes to target with a fly rod and pick hie brains about fly casting that is full of tips.
He is a passionate about the outdoors as a whole that I am sure agree comes across in this edition of the podcast.
There was a time before the internet when your local tackle shop would be the place where you could get the latest fishing information along with news of a new rod or line that had just come to the market.
My local tackle shop at the time was Simpsons of Turnford located just up the A10 outside of London.
The game fishing department was run by Phil Barker who I spent most Saturdays speaking with him about fishing along with topping up with some new tackle if I needed it or sometimes, even if I didn't.
We talk about how a shop worked, the importance of a personal service and whether we are missing this in a price only driven market place.
I talk with Matt Harris about his career as a photographer and his passion for chasing fish with a fly rod.
He speaks with great honesty and openness about what fishing means to him, why we need to act about the state of rivers and where his work as a photographer has taken him.
We cover a lot of ground in a podcast I am sure you will enjoy.
From a young age, David Walker was obsessed with fly fishing. He would fish all the hours he could, often with his brother.
As he grew older, he entered the world of competitive fishing but after gaining 3 caps for Scotland he decided to focus on other aspects of fishing and now enjoys nothing more than waiting for a rising fish and seeing if he can catch it.
They say we go through distinct phases as anglers. Firstly wanting to catch a fish, then lots of fish followed by big fish. Eventually looking for a tricky one in a hard-to-reach spot is enough.
David's story follows this path perfectly.
I first got to know Ryan Sparks when he contacted me regarding contributing to Fly Culture Magazine.
He lives and breathes life with a fly rod in his hand and has fished across the US at times fishing 300 days a year.
He is also Editor in Chief of Strung Magazine and we get the chance to talk about what goes into producing a magazine in a behind the scenes and totally open look from both of us.
In this weeks episode I talk with James Waine about fishing for grayling with dry flies. There is plenty of stories and information that I am sure you'll find interesting listening.
Bob Wyatt is the man behind the Deer Hair Emerger fly, the books Trout Hunting and What Trout Want and has written a number of articles in magazines too.
He has lived and fished in Canada, Scotland and New Zealand where he has had the chance to observe the behaviour of trout especially with a dry fly.
While researching this podcast I realised that as someone who has read both books that he has had a huge impact on my approach to fly fishing.
Fred Brown left university to pursue his dream job as a fishing guide in Mozambique. He later returned back to the UK where he discovered life in London wasn't for him and spent all of his spare time travelling the UK with a fly rod and fishing the rivers while sleeping in his car.
He is a dedicated follower of streamer fishing and I talk with him about the techniques he uses to fish this method.
We cover a lot of other ground that I hope you'll find interesting.
I caught up with author and fly angler Chris Newton who has written a number of fishing books that include one of my favourites, The Trout's Tale, that documents how brown trout were exported to the once sizeable British Empire.
We cover some of the locations featured in the book along with his fly fishing story.
If you are interested in brown trout then this will be fascinating listening.
Please accept my apologies for the slight issues with the sound in small parts of the interview as the line we recorded on was not always as clear as it should have been.
I talk with Paul Gaskell about nymph fishing and his excellent book "The Fly Fishing Bible of Nymphing"
It is packed full of information that, without a doubt, will help you take your nymph fishing to a new level.
I get the chance to talk to Paul about some of the topics covered in the book that I feel sure you'll find interesting.
This is a slightly longer edition as we cover so much ground but I feel sure you'll enjoy.
To learn more about The Fly Fishing Bible of Nymphing, just click HERE
If you are outside of the UK and would like a copy, please click the Amazon link HERE
Sandy Nelson is an expert angler based in Scotland who specialises in targeting sizeable trout with a dry fly.
He also has a deep understanding of fly rods and has built many over the years.
I learn a little about his favourite rod material and if I might be tempted to build my own fly rod.
This is a really interesting insight into the mind of a fly angler who thinks deeply about how to catch large trout and the rods that he so loves to build.
There is little in fly fishing that Peter Morse hasn't done.
From travelling the globe with a fly rod in his hand, to writing books, making TV programs, guiding, being a fly casting instructor, taking beautiful photographs and writing many articles for magazines including Fly Culture.
I catch up with Peter and learn a little about his life in fly fishing and talk about the many things he has done.
I also get the chance to learn about the Australian fly fishing community too.
Join me as I have a look back at my fishing season and the tackle I have used and the friends I have fished with.
I talk about my home river, the fish I have caught and in some cases, haven't caught and the gear I have used this season.
Jay Lee loves fly fishing. He'll drive 11 hours from his home in Rotterdam to cast a fly on the streams of Germany and Austria.
Like me, he enjoys fishing both bamboo, glass and graphite rods and also shares a love of fishing in Montana.
We discuss all of these topics and more in what is a wonderfully interesting story of one man's life with a fly rod.
I catch up with friend and Fly Culture Magazine designer, Jon Ogborne, to fish his home water.
I have been lucky enough to fish there once before and enjoyed fishing water that is no more than 10 feet wide with a low canopy and tricky casts.
As far as I am concerned, this is fishing I love and hope you'll enjoy listening to our day.
Wow, we've reached a small milestone of 100 podcasts.
In this special edition, I talk about many fishing subjects with my good friend Paul Procter.
It was great fun to record and is packed with a great deal of information and amusing stories I'm sure you'll enjoy.
I catch up with Barry Ord Clarke to talk about his latest book, Fly Tying for Beginners but we also cover many varied and interesting topics from fishing to photography and the reason he now lives in Norway.
This is a fascinating peek inside Barry's world that you'll be sure to enjoy
There is nothing more fun than getting the chance to spend time on the river with a good friend.
I managed to catch up with Brett O'Connor and spend the day searching for trout and grayling on the River Anton in Hampshire.
Tune in to see how we get on.
Fly fishing has been a life saver for many.
Neil Mundy tells me about how he organises fishing days for Fishing for Forces, taking disabled children fishing and raising money for the Wild Trout Trust giving something back to a pastime that means so much to him.
We also explore his fly fishing timeline from The Falklands via Mexico and back to his home water in Hampshire on the banks of The Test.
It is an inspiring story that I hope you'll enjoy.
I'm in chalk stream country and in the company of fishing guide and friend, Gilly Bate who has a rare day off from taking her guests fishing.
We spend the day talking about fishing, what it means to us and cast our dry flies at rising trout and grayling.
One of those fun days on the river with excellent company.
I hope you enjoy this edition.
A few years back I had the pleasure of watching Chris make elegant casts across a casting pool while doing a fishing demo.
I knew a little about his background in fishing but was keen to learn more.
This podcast is a fascinating look at the modesty, drive and determination of a talented angler and instructor who is as passionate about fishing and casting as he was when he first picked up a fly rod.
I catch up with Lindsay Simpson to learn about his fly fishing career, his love of fishing lakes, reservoirs and rivers and the journey he has taken to get there.
I also find out about what goes into running a busy YouTube channel and why he is so keen to introduce anglers into our pastime.
Totally ego free and honest I enjoyed learning about what fly fishing means to Lindsay.
Join me as I fish with mullet experts Colin Macleod, Paul Jennings and Martin Webster.
The podcast is packed with information that will help if you are thinking about catching mullet with a fly rod.
The conditions were tough but we managed to find some fish.
So sit down and join me as we walk the sand flats in search of the British bonefish.
Join me as I catch up with my friend Daran Sadler as he is in Devon for a few days and has a fishing rod in his car.
We talk about his home water, flies, road trips, hiring a guide and catch a few fish too.
It was a fun day on the river and I hope you'll enjoy listening to two friends talking fishing.
I catch up with Fly Culture team member Adrian Grose-Hodge and talk about his fishing career through the rods he has owned.
From South America to the small streams of the UK I discover the journey his fishing career has taken along with what fishing means to him.
We also geek out on the nuances of different fly rods!
In another episode of our "On the Water' series of podcasts I get the chance to spend a couple of days swinging flies for salmon on the River Tamar.
My host is Steve Symons who is the third generation of his family who have fished the river. I learn about the Tamar, how it has impacted his family and what the fishing means to him.
I also get an insight into what went into launching the Driology brand of fishing clothing that Steve has designed.
I hope you'll enjoy joining us on the river as we search for salmon.
In this podcast I catch up with Pete McLeod and we choose fishing destinations both here and farther abroad and talk about what they mean to us and why we like them so much.
I hope you'll like them and they make interesting listening!
Join me for another day on the water where I head to the border of Devon and Cornwall to fish with my friend Gerald Spiers on the River Tamar.
It was a stretch of the Tamar I'd not fished before and with the added bonus of grayling that are now in season I was excited to try it.
Tune in to see how we get on!
This podcast set out to be a talk about me learning about the fishing in Texas and the excellent book Steve has written called Casting Forward.
We cover these topics but so much more too. It is about one mans passion for fly fishing, what it means to him and how it has saved him.
I hope this will impact you in the same way as it did me.
I look at my life in fishing and the rods that I have used. This was recorded without a script and just the list of rods for reference. It turned out to be a fun and emotional journey that visits a lot of different places filled with happiness and some tears too.
It turned out to be a chance to reflect on what fly fishing truly means to me and the huge impact it has had on my life.
Join me for an afternoon on the river with a few mayfly, a new glass rod to christen and some rising trout.
It turned out to be one of the memorable sessions on the water for all the right reasons and I manage to catch some trout you might not expect to find here in Devon.
I get the chance to catch up with Cyril Kamir, the brains behind the excellent Le Mouching website.
We talk fishing, conservation, fishing with friends and cigars and I also uncover some exciting news too.
Cyril is excellent company and has some really interesting views on fishing and what it means to us.
Join my good friend Duncan Raynor and me as we brave the elements and head to Cornwall to fish Colliford Lake, a 930 acre brown trout fishery.
Duncan ties one of his patterns, the Collihog, on the back of his truck before we try our luck against the trout.
This was a fun day of fishing in tricky conditions but I was lucky to have an expert with me!
It was a pleasure to catch up with Jonathan Tomlinson and to talk about the many things he has done in fly fishing. From being an instructor at the age of 16, managing fishing tackle shops, distance casting champion, film maker and photographer too.
As you can see, there were many topics to cover and I spent a hugely enjoyable hour hearing about his life in fishing.
Join me as I meet up with my good friends Luke Bannister and Warren McCarthy as we catch up, cast some rods and look for some rising trout.
Do we get lucky? Tune in and find out!
As well as his love of fly fishing Steve Kemp is also the drummer in the hugely successful band Hard-Fi.
We look at his career as a fly angler and how it has intertwined with how the band became hugely successful with two number one albums along with many other plaudits . This is a really interesting look inside the life of a passionate angler along with what it is like to work in the music industry and everything that goes with it.
Steve is a qualified casting instructor and if you're in London and looking for some instruction you can reach him here - castflies@gmail.com
There isn't much Simon Kidd hasn't done in fly fishing but his passion for our pastime burns as bright as ever.
We talk about his fishing career, work with Snowbee and get an insight into competition fishing too.
This was an enjoyable podcast to record that is full of tips and information you'll sure to find interesting.
I talk with my friend and Fly Culture creative director, Brett O'Connor, about his love of fly fishing, how we first met taking our fly casting exams some 16 years ago and how we embarked on our journey with Fly Culture.
This is a relaxed and fun podcast that gives you an insight into Brett's fishing timeline.
Tony King has been in and around fishing from a very early age. We look at his career and a passion for our pastime that has lasted the test of the time.
In researching for this episode I was amazed to learn just how much Tony has done and the places he has been. It really is amazing.
This is not just a story about fishing, it is a story about one mans life.
Join Fly Culture's Pete Tyjas as he fishes his home water, the Taw, for an early season session looking for rising trout.
He talks about the river that means so much to him as he describes and fishes the pools.
This is totally unscripted and is just left to see how things happen.
Does he get lucky?
Tune in and find out!
I talk with Peter Thurston, owner of Thornwood Springs in Essex about the work that goes into setting up and running a trout fishery.
It sounds to many of us like it could be a dream job and in this episode you'll get an insight into what goes on behind the scenes.
It was great fun to catch up with Simon Gawesworth and talk about his life in fishing, what goes into bringing a new fly line to the market and his love of fishing and casting.
Join Fly Culture's Pete Tyjas for an early season session of trout fishing on his home water, the Taw where he talks about the river, how he is fishing and plenty more. Does he get lucky?
Tune in and find out.
It was a pleasure to catch up with Stuart Minnikin about many subjects including the fishing in Yorkshire and his many years as a fishing guide.
He speaks with great honesty and knowledge about the topics that we cover that you'll find an absorbing listen.
This is the remarkable story of Will Robins who always knew he would work in fly fishing.
Starting out commuting from Hull to London to work in Farlows at the age of 15 he has continued to be involved in the fly fishing industry.
He now owns and runs his own saltwater guiding and outfitting service based in Mexico, a place he now calls home.
I learn about his story and we talk about what it takes to become a fishing guide.
This is an amazing story that you are sure to enjoy.
Join Emma and me as we make the short journey to fish our home water on the River Taw in Devon for the start of the salmon fishing season.
We talk a little about what the fishing means to us there along with some fishing and stories too.
This was a wonderful episode to record and hope our love of our home water comes across to you.
It was fun to talk with Jon Ogborne about his love of fly fishing and planning of road trips.
We also discuss the design process of Fly Culture Magazine along with his home water, a stream just outside Bristol, that I was lucky enough to fish with him a few years back.
This is an interesting insight into what goes into producing Fly Culture and how our team is made up of passionate fly anglers.
If you're a regular reader of Fly Culture you'll know Chadd VanZanten who has written a number of articles for the magazine.
They are all beautifully observed, skilfully written and circle around the streams of Utah that mean so much to him.
We talk about the importance of choosing the right fishing buddy, his new book and learn about the cutthroat trout he so enjoys casting a fly to.
We cover many topics and what I hope you'll find an entertaining interview.
I talk with rod builders Luke Bannister and Adam Rawson about carbon, glass and bamboo rods and get a really interesting insight into what goes into the process of building a rod for a customer.
We talk about the differences between them, the uses and their clear passion for what they build along with plenty of talk about fishing too.
If you are interested in fly rods and want to hear from the craftsmen who build them you are sure to enjoy this edition of the podcast.
Jason Borger is the author of what I think are 2 of the most influential fly casting books I have read, he is also an artist, poet, fly casting instructor and has written a number of articles for Fly Culture too.
If you have watched the film A River Runs Through It and thought Brand Pitt was handy with a fly rod then the reason was that Jason was the fishing and casting double.
I learn more about the film and Jason's passion for our pastime in what was a fascinating interview.
Not being able to fish has had me dreaming not only of my home water but also of distant destinations too.
Fly fishing guide Vito Rubino take me on a virtual tour of the varied fishing available in Italy.
We start with a cup of coffee at a cafe before heading into the mountains with dry flies and feisty brook trout, head down into the flatter gradient of the river as it runs through the valley where we target large brown and marble trout with streamers.
We rig up a fly rod in mountain lakes for pike and I learn about a species I one day hope to catch, asp.
Vito is great company and a passion for the varied fishing available in his country.
Andy Baird has run the well respected Small Fly Funk blog for a number of years.
In it, he chronicles his love of fishing small streams with flies in size #22 and much smaller.
I learn how his interest in fishing such small flies started along with how to fish and tie them too.
We also share a deep love of music that we touch on.
If you've ever wanted to learn more about the use of small flies this is the place to start!
Jim Curry has been around fishing from an early age and it was inevitable that he would end up working in the fishing industry.
We talk about the life he has led and his current role as brand manager for Guideline in the UK. I also learn about his passion for fishing in the South American jungle for some real off the grid adventures.
He is an entertaining and engaging guest who I am sure you'll enjoy listening to.
Located in the far north west of Scotland is what might be considered a fly fishing hotspot. Small streams and lochs populated with trout, a coastline with rod breaking pollack along with salmon fishing set against a stunning back drop.
I learn a little about the varied fishing from a hugely passionate angler and guide Stewart Yates.
I catch up with my friend Kris Kent and talk about him fishing the trout rivers of the UK. So far, he has fished 120 but always has an eye on a new venue.
I also learn from about his transition into the fly fishing industry starting at a tackle shop and then as a fishing guide.
Food is an important aspect of a day on the water and he shares what it means to him. You'll probably shudder when you learn about the number of fishing rods he owns too!
From an early age, Susan Skrupa has felt the urge to travel. It was started by her father who also introduced her to fishing. I get to hear about her fishing travels to far flung places but also in the UK too.
She captured perfectly her relationship with her father and how it led her to fishing in a beautifully written piece that appeared in Fly Culture called "Bloodlines" and I was keen to learn more.
She is also involved with The Mayfly Project a charity that helps mentor foster children through fly fishing.
I catch up with angler, guide, photographer and author Steffan Jones about his love of his home river, the challenges fishing faces, sea trout and how he wanted to share his knowledge of sea trout via his book - Sea trout, Tricks, Tips and Tribulations.
It is a fascinating and thought provoking conversation about one mans love for our pastime.
I talk with writer, presenter, photographer and angler Matt Hayes about his fly fishing career and how it has taken him to Norway where he now runs a fishing lodge.
This is a fascinating insight that covers his TV work and how he discovered a deep passion and love for fly fishing.
He is open and honest about many aspects of his life that I am sure you will enjoy listening to.
I invite Paul Procter, Ieva Breiteryte and Andy Buckley to talk about how fly fishing looks in the current climate along with the developments we have witnessed during our fishing careers.
It is an interesting and lively debate that covers many topics.
I talk with Paul Whitehouse about his hugely successful TV program Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, his love of fly fishing and how one of his Fast Show characters was based on someone he met fishing.
This is an interesting and very funny podcast that I am sure you'll enjoy.
I meet up with friend and fishing guide Gerald Spiers and while maintaining social distancing rules we fish a beautiful stretch of river for grayling that means a lot to him.
Do we catch any fish? Tune in and listen but as you'll discover we cover many subjects that you'd probably talk about when fishing with a friend.
Jim Murray is an actor who is also a passionate fly angler.
We talk about many subjects from trout and salmon fishing, the benefits of fishing to mental health and his part in taking on a salad washing plant on his home river and won.
This is a fascinating discussion that looks at many aspects of fishing and will be an interesting listen.
Stuart McTeare is a river keeper who passionately believes that the fish come first on the water he manages. I learn what goes into this process along with hearing about how he managed a fishing lodge in Ireland and all the work that goes on behind the scenes.
Alex grew up with a fly rod in his hand. He has been involved in just about every branch of fly fishing and knows his subject intimately.
In episode 52 I get the chance to pick his brains about tackling grayling.
This episode is packed with information so don't miss out!
Join me as I talk with journalist, TV presenter and fly angler Matthew Wright about coping with lockdown, trout and saltwater fishing, the music of Hawkwind along with much more.
We travel down his fly fishing timeline to learn about his passion for fly fishing. This is an entertaining listen!
It was inevitable that Hywel would follow a fly fishing path.
From fishing a small, local stream near his home he has gone on to hold numerous casting records along with representing Wales on numerous occasions.
He has also appeared on TV programs, released his own range of fishing DVDs and demonstrates at fly fishing shows.
Even after achieving so much the passion for fly fishing still burns bright.
It didn't take long to discover the deep love that Phillippa has for fly fishing. From hitting the river everyday and learning her trade she has become a well respected member of the fly fishing community and is a regular at fishing shows tying flies.
We talk about her passion for fly fishing and how it began for her.
Stuart Foxall has had a passion for fishing at a very early age. He has a passion for trout and salmon that he has caught across the UK and has fished extensively for steelhead. He is also know for his fly tying especially salmon flies.
This is a fascinating conversation that covers many aspects of fishing with lots of thought provoking topics.
Gareth and I talk about our fishing season along with the fishing books we enjoy reading when we're not fishing.
We each select 5 books and talk a little about why we like them so much and read a short excerpt too.
There is an interesting mix and some you might have heard of and others may be new to you.
Stuart Watson is chairman of the Pike Fly Fishing Association and a self confessed predator fish addict.
I get the chance to learn about his fly fishing career and plenty of information on tackling pike with a fly rod.
I talk with Ali Hutchens about salmon fishing, get some tips, the crossovers with trout fishing and salmon farms. We cover many topics including what fishing means to Ali and travelling to distant destinations to cast a fly rod.
Lee Evans lives right beside the River Usk in Wales. He is tuned into the hatches and the mood of the river.
We talk about what fishing means to him, get some great fishing tips and discuss the recent fish kill on Llynfi.
We cover a wide range of subjects that makes really interesting listening.
Hector Rodriguez caught his first fish at the age of 5 in Cuba. His journey took him from Havana to Eastern Europe and then on to London with fishing always being a part of his life.
He now spends his time catching barbel from the Wandle in London and other rivers of the South East.
I get the chance to learn a little more about targeting barbel on the fly, picking up some great tips along the way.
Martin Smith is a passionate fly angler who cares deeply about trout and grayling, especially their environment. He has also written service and maintenance manuals for sewage treatment works for Thames Water. He has a deep understanding of how these systems should work.
After joining a fishing syndicate in Yorkshire he discovered the extent of damage a STW had done to the river and the fish that once thrived there.
This is the story of how he took on a water company.
Dave has a passion for the outdoors that tracks from mountaineering to chasing what are consider more niche species like carp, barbel and pike on the fly.
We discuss his fly fishing career and I get to learn that fly fishing for carp isn't just about throwing out dog biscuits and waiting for them to feed and the surface.
Dave shares many tips that he has learnt that will have you looking at carp fishing in a different way.
I talk with Feargal about his love of fly fishing and his battle in highlighting the abuse of the river systems across the UK by water companies. From the abstraction of chalk streams that, in some cases, are now running dry to what seems the constant unloading of sewage into our rivers systems around the country.
I am sure many of you will be aware of this already but Feargal goes into depth what is happening. It is grim listening.
This will resonate with anyone who cares about the environment fish live in and I hope it will inspire others to join the fight.
Steve Cullen has an impressive fly fishing CV.
He has been an editor of a fly fishing magazine, brand manager for a tackle company, has represented England in nearly all disciplines of fly fishing and is a guide too.
I get the chance to learn a little about what fly fishing means to him and the journey his life has taken.
More from Steve HERE
Wayne Thomas is a well known face in fly fishing here in Devon. He is a writer, journalist and passionate angler.
We talk about fishing, the plight of salmon and what went in to writing his book "I Caught a Glimpse"
There is little doubting Ieva's passion for fishing. Since taking it up she is on the river casting dry flies and nymphs at the trout that inhabit her home waters most days and it is clear she knows her subject well.
We talk about what fishing means to her, the state of fishing and women in fishing.
This is a really interesting conversation that covers the topics from a point of view that is refreshing.
A slight change of direction for this podcast.
After a recent podcast where Nick Hart and I answered some questions I'd been sent I was excited to receive a number more from listeners that cover a wide range of topics from casting, tackle and fishing advice.
I talk about fishing rivers for trout, salmon and even some advice if you're heading abroad too.
I talk with Peter Knox about his love of fly fishing and his job at Farbank where he designs rods for Sage.
This is a fascinating insight into the process of rod building and the many hours of work that goes in to making a fly rod from design to the moment they are shipped to their new owners.
Dani Morey has lived and breathed fly fishing from an early age but it was fishing the Spey that changed her life. She had been fishing there for many years before deciding to throw in a well paid job to live close to the river than means so much to her.
She now spends her time fishing and guiding on the river and passing on her passion for fly fishing.
Contact Dani HERE
Nick Thomas' role was to come up with solutions in his previous career. He has taken those skills over into his fishing, film making and fly tying. He is always devising new patterns and techniques that he'll try out on his home water. If you've never tied with organza you'll certainly be tempted.
He has also written numerous articles for Fly Culture too. I get an insight into his thought process and along with what fishing means to him.
More from Nick HERE
Watch his fishing videos HERE
Saltwater fly fishing in the UK has been a branch of our sport that has seen a steady growth over the last decade. There are few who have managed to have consistent success targeting mullet but Colin Macleod is one of those few.
This is a fascinating look into the dedication Colin has put into the process along with plenty of tips and insights that if you haven't already fished for mullet you'll have enough information in the podcast to have a try yourself.
Nick Hart talks reservoir fishing tricks and tips and we answer questions from listeners of the podcast.
Nick Yardley has always had a passion for fly fishing. First, learning on the streams of Yorkshire and then moving to the US to become a mountaineering guide and then working in the fishing industry. He lives in the back country in Vermont.
It is a really interesting story and a chance to see if there are comparisons in fishing between the UK and US along with hearing about the varied fishing he enjoys.
Jon Hazlett has worked in fishing for a number of years now. He guides for steelhead in Oregon but has enjoyed a varied life that has always revolved around fly fishing. We talk about his career in the fishing industry. He is an entertaining person to listen to, who has some amusing stories to tell but also knows his subject intimately and talks with great knowledge.
Visit Jon's webpage HERE
Ghost of Steelhead Future Video
I talk with Dan Osmond one of the current crop of young fly anglers searching out wild trout in wild places. He talks about his passion for fly fishing and sleeping in a car for 2 months so that he could fish the streams of Devon and Dorset.
An engaging and thoughtful person who cares deeply about fishing and the fish he pursues.
It was fascinating to talk with Stan and to get an insight into fishing in Bulgaria and the surrounding areas.
We talk about how anglers have helped stop the damning of rivers, why he quit competitive fly fishing and his passion for huchen.
I talk with Matt Eastham about fishing the rivers of the north country, streamers, writing a successful blog and magazine articles and how he feels about fly fishing.
It is clear Matt is a thinker when it comes to all aspects of his life including fishing. His answers to my questions are eloquent and well reasoned.
Montana is a place close to my heart and it was fun to catch up with Jess, who provided the cover image for the spring edition of Fly Culture, about her life as a photographer and the fishing in Montana.
We talk about her life as a fishing photographer, the rivers and streams of Montana along with some great fishing photography tips.
More from Jess HERE
James Gilbraith is an author of two books based around the fishing he enjoys with friends on his local river, the Ribble.
He has a zest for live, passion for salmon and a wonderful sense of humour.
We talk about what fishing means to him, learn about the books he has written and laugh a lot!
Gareth and I talk about his love of casting a dry fly on the many streams near where he lives in Cardiff, Wales.
We also discuss what it was like to run one of the early fly fishing blogs in the UK along with production fly tying.
Gareth is a knowledgable angler who lives and breathes fly fishing.
An enjoyable podcast that starts in Zimbabwe and ends in Cornwall via many other locations.
We talk about fishing, tying flies and guiding.
Recorded before the virus lockdown
This is my first transatlantic podcast with Spencer Durrant who is News Editor for the online resource, Midcurrent along with writing articles for many of the American fishing magazines. Most of all though, he is a passionate trout angler who will travel just about anywhere for trout.
We cover many subjects and Spencer is honest and amusing to listen to.
Midcurrent
Pete Cockwill needs little by way of introduction to fly anglers in the UK. He has written books, made videos and written countless articles for the angling press.
I sit down and talk to him about the passion he has for fly fishing that still burns just as bright as ever.
Visit Pete Cockwill's blog here
Andy Buckley's life has revolved around fishing from an early age. He has worked in tackle shops, been a saltwater fishing guide and now runs his own guiding business based in Derbyshire, UK.
We talk about what it is like to be a full time fishing guide. Is it the glamorous job that it is considered?
Visit Andy Buckley Angling Services Website
Bruno Vincent has recently joined the Wild Trout Trust alongside his work with Westcountry Rivers Trust. We talk about both his roles alongside his passion for fishing.
Aside from being a passionate angler, Paul Richardson is deeply involved within the fly fishing industry and has worked with companies designing new products, ad campaigns and delivering projects.
His client list is impressive - Redington, Winston, Bauer, Wychwood, Sportfish, Umpqua, Guide Flyfishing and many more.
We talk about how he became involved in fly fishing, designing rods, reels and fishing too.
He has a deep knowledge of both salmon and steelhead fishing sharing his views on both.
This is a really interesting subject that showcases what goes into the process of designing, producing and bringing a new product to market.
I sit down with co-authors Peter Hayes and Don Stazicker and learn about their new e-book Trout and Flies - Getting Closer.
We talk at length about how the book came about, their findings and how they applied what they learnt. This is a deep look into fishing techniques that will have you thinking about how and what you present to a trout.
John Aplin is one of the nicest people in fly fishing. From an early age his life has revolved around fly fishing. This is his story.
In fly fishing the name Charles Jardine needs little introduction. A writer, painter and photographer he has spent his life in fly fishing. He talks about his passion, that still burns bright, for the sport and the changes he has seen.
Howard Taylor runs Upstream Dry Fly a company specialising in offering days for chalk stream fishing. We talk about the state of rivers, fishing, stocking, the cost of fishing these streams, environmental concerns and the future. A frank and honest discussion you'll not want to miss.
I talk with Nick Measham about fishing, his involvement with The Salmon and Trout Conservation as Deputy Chief Executive, the Riverfly Census and insect hatches generally.
Pete Tyjas and Nick Hart select items of tackle they've been using during the past season and discuss what they have liked or haven't liked about each item. The twist is that they've not told each other what they have selected. There are some surprises along the way!
Gilly Bate is a fly fishing guide who spends a lot of time on the water. We discuss, fishing, tactics and life while sitting beside the river Test.
Fly Culture Magazine
Luke Bannister is primarily known as a rod builder specialising in bamboo rods but also graphite and glass too.
He is also a qualified casting instructor and produces fly fishing videos that capture perfectly why we love fishing so much.
I sit sit down and talk about fishing, building fly rods, the definition of a trout bum and a really neat fly pattern he uses.
Visit Luke Bannister's website HERE
Visit The Fly Culture website HERE
I sit down with Fly Culture contributer Andrew Fowler to talk about the streams he fishes in Natal, South Africa, conservation and his love of wild brown trout. A thoughtful and interesting insight into one mans passion for wild brown trout.
Gerald Spiers is a extremely modest but hugely talented angler who fishes the rivers of the West country in the UK.
An expert at catching salmon, sea trout, trout and grayling I got the chance to hear from an angler who loves to be out on the water.
I talk face-to-face with him about swinging wet flies and spiders and get some great tips on how to get the most from the method.
Visit the Fly Culture website by clicking HERE
Paul Procter is one of the most recognisable names in fly fishing in the UK. In this podcast he gives a fascinating insight into his approach to fishing along with plenty of tips and an insight into how his life is so intertwined with the outdoors.
Visit Fly Culture Magazine
Damon Valentine has been fishing all of his life, starting on the rivers Ribble and Hodder he now spends time fishing the Wandle after a music career took him to London. We fill in all of the gaps of the journey he has made.
Visit Fly Culture Magazine Website
Pete McLeod has worked in fly fishing pretty much from the moment he left school and has travelled the world with a fly rod. He talks about his passion for giant trevally, offers some great advice on saltwater fly fishing and how to prepare for a fishing holiday.
Fly Culture Magazine
I sit down with Jim Williams and talk about fishing, leader design and fly casting.
Fly Culture Magazine
I sit down with Nick Hart, fly fishing guide and instructor and talk about how he has made a career from fly fishing including the ups and downs, what he is doing to get young people involved in fishing along with some fishing advice too.
Fly Culture Magazine
The very first Fly Culture Podcast, meet your host Pete Tyjas who will tell you a little about what you can look forward to in future podcasts and reads "Two Beer Buzz" from a previous issue of Fly Culture Magazine