As the rivers begin to wake up from winter and the fish get hungry, spring offers some of the best opportunities of the year to improve your fly fishing game. In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we’re sharing practical tips to help you shake off the winter rust and make the most of the upcoming season.

We start with casting—because let’s face it, most of us haven’t picked up a rod in a while. From roll casts to single hauls, we walk through simple ways to practice in your yard, how to set targets, and even why filming yourself can help. This segment is all about making those casts count once you’re back on the water.

Next up: weather apps. Springtime in the South means fast-changing conditions, and a good weather app can be the difference between a memorable day on the water and one you’d rather forget. We share a story about getting caught in a sudden hailstorm (hint: don’t ignore the friendly cabin folks when they invite you out of the rain) and offer tips for timing your day to avoid the worst of the wind and crowds.

Finally, we talk about paying attention to what’s changed since winter. High water events can move gravel bars, create new feeding lanes, and shift resting spots. We explain how to read these changes to find fish more effectively—and why being observant (or as we call it, “observating”) is one of the best tools in your kit this spring.

Whether you're brushing up your cast, watching the sky, or scanning the riverbed, these tips will help you start the season strong. Sign up for our newsletter, follow the show, and we’ll see you on the water.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

Summer fishing comes with its own set of challenges, and staying cool while out on the water is essential for both comfort and safety. In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we sit down with Patrick Stansbury, a retired physician assistant and current fishing manager at Orvis in Nashville, to break down the best ways to beat the heat and keep fishing at your best.

From choosing the right clothing to protecting yourself from the sun, Patrick shares practical advice rooted in both his medical background and years of experience on the water. We cover:

• The Importance of Proper Clothing – Why lightweight, breathable fabrics with built-in sun protection make all the difference.
• Sunscreen Done Right – When and how to apply sunscreen so it actually works (hint: before you leave the house!).
• Gear That Keeps You Cool – From wide-brim hats to cooling buffs and gloves, the best accessories for shielding yourself from the sun.
• Hydration & Heat Management – How staying hydrated can prevent heat exhaustion and help you fish longer.

We also talk snook fishing in Florida, wading vs. boat fishing in the summer, and—of course—the heartbreaking tale of the one that got away.

If you’ve ever found yourself overheating mid-cast or regretting a forgotten tube of sunscreen, this episode is packed with insights that will change the way you approach summer fishing.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

For our 100th episode, we’re bringing back familiar voices for a conversation that’s part tradition, part philosophy, and all about fly fishing. Join us as we sit down with the Liars and Tyers—a group of anglers who have been tying, fishing, and occasionally stretching the truth together for over 15 years.

In this episode, we take on the age-old question: What is fly fishing? Is it about the gear? The technique? The spirit of the sport? We put different scenarios to the test—bamboo rods, streamers with gold blades, Euro nymphing with long rods and tight-line techniques, even the controversial question of chicken livers. Where do we draw the line between fly fishing and everything else?

Our guests weigh in with their own experiences, preferences, and strong opinions. We explore how fly fishing has evolved over the years and whether modern innovations—like jig-style nymphs and synthetic materials—change the essence of the sport. And of course, we don’t shy away from a few good-natured jabs at questionable hats, catch rates, and beer choices along the way.

As we wrap up, we turn our attention to bucket-list destinations, with dreams ranging from smallmouth bass in Tennessee to tarpon in the Keys, brook trout in Labrador, and the untamed waters of Patagonia.

Whether you’re a purist, a modern angler, or just someone who loves a good fly-fishing debate, this episode is for you. Thanks for being part of our journey to 100 episodes—here’s to many more.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA