flycasting

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/573

Presented By: Angler's Coffee, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Northern Rockies Adventures, Stonefly Nets

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Growing up by the Golden Gate Park, Tim never imagined that the casting ponds there would become a cornerstone of his journey in fly fishing. Yet, as Tim starts to reminisce, it's clear that those early days of bait fishing were just the beginning of his adventure into the craft of fly fishing, filled with the finesse of a straight-line rod tip path and the power of a double haul. It's like reeling in memories, from his first triumph over his brother in a casting competition to his progression from fishing lodge work to founding Echo Fly Rod Company.

Tim unravels the technical threads of rod materials, casting techniques, and the philosophy that turns fly fishing into a beautiful tapestry of experiences. We share stories that compare the delicate art of casting to flicking water off a paintbrush, and explore the evolution of rod technology and pricing, understanding that like in nature, balance is key, and the bike analogy. The episode is a treasure trove of anecdotes and insights, where the echoes of our laughter blend with serious discussions on rod action, power, and the pursuit of aquatic game.

As we cast our thoughts into the future, the conversation turns towards the importance of coaching in refining your skills. Just as a small tip can transform a cast, our dialogue is a testament to the growth and enjoyment found in sharing knowledge. Whether you're a novice angler or a seasoned fly fisher, this episode is sure to resonate with the passion that lures us to the water's edge time and again. Join us as we float through the highs and lows of fly fishing, celebrating the continuous pursuit of mastery and the joy of a well-placed cast.

Episode Chapters with Tim Rajeff from Echo Fly Rod

(0:00:05) - Fly Casting Fundamentals and Techniques
Tim's journey in fly fishing, influenced by his brother and practice, and the importance of dedication in enhancing performance on the water.

(0:14:10) - Mastering the Perfect Cast
Nature's nuances in fly casting with different rods, emphasizing acceleration, casting arc, straight-line path, and stopping.

(0:24:30) - Fly Casting Techniques and Fundamentals
Nature's fundamentals of fly casting, stroke length, 10 to 2 rule, sidearm casts, double haul, and hands-on practice lead to mastery.

(0:31:15) - The Art of Double Haul Casting
Nature's double haul increases line speed and distance, utilizing the rod's lever and spring action for efficient casting.

(0:42:53) - Echo Fly Rod Company Evolution
Echo brand's origins, journey from fishing lodges to distribution, expertise gained, iconic logo, and reputation for durable rods at competitive prices.

(0:46:09) - Understanding Fly Rod Technology and Pricing
Evolution and technology of fly fishing rods, Loomis' use of carbon fiber, Echo's goal of affordability, and complexities of manufacturing.

(0:57:03) - Understanding Fly Rod Action and Power
Nature's action and power in fly fishing rods, including fast, medium, and slow action, rod tips, and purchasing considerations.

(1:06:04) - Fly Fishing and the Outdoors
Nature's timeless allure of fly fishing in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park and its connection to childhood wonder and discovery.

(1:11:47) - Fly Fishing Techniques and Tips
Nature's infectious enthusiasm for fly fishing, the thrill of catching various fish species, and practical advice for improving casting techniques.

(1:18:04) - Improving Fly Fishing Skills Through Coaching
Nature's transformative power through minor adjustments in activities, joy in helping others, gratitude for listeners, and future fishing adventures with Tim.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/573

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/553 

Presented by: Skwala, Northern Rockies Adventures

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   

In this episode, we delve into fly fishing North Carolina with the seasoned pro, Mac Brown. With his experience in casting and teaching, Brown shares his knowledge on not only the techniques of fly casting and fishing but also its history and evolution throughout the years.

Whether discussing his journey from the Ozarks to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park or unraveling the intricacies of fly casting, Brown's insights illuminate the art and sport of fly fishing. Read on for an insightful journey into the world of fly fishing with Mac Brown.

Episode Chapters with Mac Brown on Fly FIshing North Carolina

1:30 - Mac shares how he started fly fishing as a kid with his grandfather. He was born in the Ozarks, and then eventually moved to Bryson City, North Carolina.

9:15 - He tells us what he loves about living in Bryson City, including the weather.

14:44 - He helped start the Delayed Harvest on the Nantahala River and the Tuckasegee River in the early nineties with the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC).

18:10 - We talk about the fishing techniques he uses in his area in North Carolina.

21:55 - He walks us through the activities they do in his guide school.

26:02 - He also does fishing shows. He mentions the upcoming shows he'll be attending to teach casting and tying classes.

33:18 - He gives valuable tips on casting. He also reflects on his experiences learning from some of the best fishers in the world, such as Jim Green and Gary Borger. With decades of teaching behind him, Mac emphasizes the importance of understanding casting techniques comprehensively and advises investing both in formal and informal learning experiences.

36:44 - He walks us through the game he and his kids play to master their casting.

39:43 - Mac recommends visiting the Fly Fishers International (FFI) website to find a casting instructor.

41:59 - He helps us understand the basics of casting and the importance of a proper casting technique.

44:39 - He talks about casting distance and teaching casting to kids.

48:34 - We dig into the role of acceleration in casting. He says casting is more of a timing game, not a muscle game. He also says that the biggest thing about casting is dealing with external surroundings.

52:46 - He talks about teaching how to roll cast.

55:53 - He's one of the Board of Governors in FFI's Casting Instructor Certification Program.

57:18 - He talks about kinesthetic relative to casting.

1:05:23 - We dig into the gear. He prefers a 10 1/2" 2wt rod. He likes the stealth rod from Temple Fork Outfitters (TFO)

1:08:05 - We talk about euro nymphing. That's how he fished with his grandfather in the Ozarks.

1:12:12 - I ask him about his definition of fly fishing. He also gives a tip on casting with heavy flies.

1:14:17 - We talk about music. He likes playing music with his kids and their electric guitars. He likes the Grateful Dead and Robert Johnson. He also mentions some other artists he likes.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/553   

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/543

Presented By: Skwala, NR Adventures, Fishing Festival

Tom Rosenbauer returns in this episode with a treasure trove of fly fishing wisdom. We hear about the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival and his long-standing friendship with Beau Beasley.

Tom spills the secrets to successful casting and decoding hatch patterns. Plus, get behind-the-scenes anecdotes from twelve years of the Orvis Podcast, including moments with literary icons Tom McGuane and John McPhee.

Show Notes with Tom Rosenbauer on Fly Casting and Hatch Strategies. 

1:20 - We caught up with Tom last on Episode 63, so let's dive into what he's been up to since then.

05:09 - We delved into the Virginia Fly Fishing & Wine Festival and explored Tom's friendship with Beau Beasley. We had Beau as a guest on Episode 400.

07:26 - We talked about ways to elevate trout fishing, emphasizing the idea of being a generalist instead of solely focusing on one technique.

11:00 - Tom highlighted the crucial role of casting skills, emphasizing the need to master the standard overhead cast as a foundation for improving techniques like the double haul.

16:25 - Tom recommends watching instructional videos like Pete Kutzer's for a visual guide on how to do a reach cast.

18:49 - Tom highlighted the importance of reading water in trout fishing. Key factors to consider:

Depth: 2 to 4 feet
Velocity: Around 1 foot per second
Flow: Uniform with minimal turbulence

31:40 - Tom encourages anglers to spend more time observing insect behavior and how fish respond to them rather than getting overly concerned about entomology.

43:27 - Tom discusses the Hatch Strategy philosophy, emphasizing that anglers often focus too much on fly patterns rather than crucial factors like approach angle, fish rhythm, and, most importantly, leader length.

53:06 - Tom shares his preference for a 7.5 ft 3wt rod for brook trout fishing in high mountain streams.

55:04 - We also talked about the Orvis Podcast that has been going on for twelve years now.

57:40 - Tom Rosenbauer recalls being particularly nervous for two episodes with his personal heroes, Tom McGuane and John McPhee.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/543