Southeastern Fly

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we share the story behind the upcoming Murfreesboro Fly Fishing Meetup at Tailgate Brewery. What started as a simple idea to give local anglers a place to gather has turned into a joint effort with Music City TU, Southeastern Fly, and Tailgate Brewery.The goal is simple: bring fly anglers together. No formal program, no big presentation, and no pressure. Just a chance to talk fishing, reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and welcome anyone interested in fly fishing.Key Highlights:The Idea Behind the Meetup: We talk about why having a simple place and time to gather can help strengthen the local fly fishing community.Inspired by Others: Conversations with Knox Girls Who Fly Fish helped shape the idea and showed how small groups can grow when people feel welcome.Music City TU’s Involvement: John and Tom from Music City TU helped move the idea forward and are bringing pizza for the group.Event Details: The meetup will be held Thursday, June 11 at 7:00 p.m. at Tailgate Brewery in Murfreesboro, located at 210 Stones River Mall.Everyone Is Welcome: You do not have to be a TU member, a longtime listener, or an experienced angler. Just show up if you enjoy fly fishing or want to learn more.Come by for a few minutes or stay awhile. We hope this becomes a relaxed way for people in the area to connect, share stories, and spend time with good people who love fly fishing.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we talk through one of the most overlooked parts of fly fishing success on the river: leaders and tippet. What seems like a small detail can have a major effect on turnover, presentation, drift, and ultimately whether or not fish eat.We walk through practical tips for matching leader length to water clarity, choosing stronger tippet than most anglers think they can get away with, and avoiding common mistakes that hurt presentation. From dry flies and nymph rigs to streamers, this conversation is all about building a better leader system and understanding how each section works together.Key Highlights:Matching leader length to conditions: In clear, slow water, longer leaders help keep fly line farther from the fish. In stained or faster water, shorter leaders are often all you need.Why heavier tippet often helps: We talk about how anglers often fish too light, which can create poor turnover, extra tangles, and longer fights that stress fish.Leader maintenance matters: Straightening your leader before fishing and replacing worn tippet can immediately improve presentation and drift.Micro swivels and tippet rings: We discuss a practical way to preserve your leader system, save money, and make changing tippet easier.Building better leader systems: From butt section stiffness to taper design, we explain how the right setup transfers energy and helps flies turn over more cleanly.Resources:Episode 123, “Fishing Near Salida, Colorado”Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we sit down on the banks of the Elk River in Tennessee and talk about something every fly angler eventually spends time doing during the winter months: tying flies. After spending time recently tying at Little River Outfitters and working through a few patterns at the vise, we decided to walk through some practical fly tying thoughts that can help both beginners and experienced tiers improve their flies.Rather than focusing on a single pattern, we discuss general principles that apply across the board. From thread control and material selection to building better dry flies, nymphs, and streamers, the conversation centers around small adjustments that can make a big difference in how your flies look, hold up, and ultimately fish. A big takeaway from this discussion is that nothing in fly tying is absolute. There are many different ways to approach tying, and improvement usually comes from experimenting, refining your technique, and learning what works best for you at the vise and on the water.Key Highlights:Thread Control Matters: Consistent tension and flat thread wraps help prevent materials from spinning and create a clean foundation for the fly.Less Material Is Often Better: Sparse flies tend to look more natural in the water and often fish better than overdressed patterns.Building a Clean Thread Base: A smooth underbody allows materials like chenille, ribbing, and wire to lay evenly and improve the overall appearance of the fly.Dry Fly Balance and Proportion: Proper tail length, correct hackle size, and avoiding crowding the hook eye all help a dry fly float and fish the way it should.Strategic Weighting for Nymphs: Adjusting where and how much weight is added can change how a fly sinks and fishes in different water conditions.Reinforcing with Ribbing: Counter-wrapping wire over delicate materials improves durability and helps flies last through more fish.Movement Over Bulk in Streamers: Choosing materials that breathe and pulse in the water can create more realistic action than simply adding more material.Using Flash Carefully: A few strands can suggest the flash of baitfish without overpowering the pattern.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we settle in for a true wintertime river recap. Instead of a rigid outline, we walk through a couple of cold, windy days on the water and talk honestly about what worked, what didn’t, and why winter fishing can feel both slower and more rewarding at the same time. From experimenting with new streamer ideas to battling wind, current, and changing water conditions, this one is about time on the water, tinkering at the vise, and enjoying good company when the river is quieter.Highlights of the Episode:Winter days on the river and how cold, wind, and higher water shape fishing decisionsThe role of confidence in fly selection, techniques, and presentationSwinging streamers on floating lines during shad season and why fly action mattersExperimenting with and refining a Clouser-style minnow pattern over timeReading water, structure, and current seams in changing winter conditionsAdapting on the fly while keeping a reliable baseline approachWhy winter fishing is often about patience, fewer crowds, and quality opportunitiesResources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we slow things down and reflect on a question that feels simple at first but carries a lot of weight once you sit with it: what really is the best seat on the river? We take a thoughtful ride through seasons, boats, friendships, and family, looking at how our perspective changes over time and how fly fishing has a way of marking those changes if we pay attention. This one is less about tactics and more about people. It’s about watching anglers grow, roles shift, and moments pass that don’t always announce themselves while they’re happening. The river keeps moving, and so do we.Highlights of the Episode:Exploring the question of what truly makes the best seat on the river, from drift boats to gravel bars to warming up in the truck on a cold day.A guide’s perspective on why the front seat of a drift boat offers such a unique view of the water and the fishing unfolding ahead.A long-running story of a father and son who fished together for years, gradually improving their skills and deepening their relationship on the river.The subtle but meaningful moment when the son insists his dad take the front seat, signaling a shift in roles shaped by time and experience.Reflections on aging, gratitude, and recognizing special moments before they quietly pass.The transition to a third generation, with a grandson now riding in the front seat and carrying family memories forward.A reminder that the best seat on the river isn’t fixed. Sometimes it’s the front, sometimes the back, and sometimes it’s simply being there at all.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

What does it really mean to care for the waters we fish? In this mid-month episode of the Southeastern Fly Podcast, we tackle that question head-on—because the answer starts with each of us.Today we welcome back Jason McReynolds, guide and owner of Flying Soho and board member of the Blue Ridge Guides Association, to explore what it means to take ownership of our rivers and give back to the places that give us so much.Jason returns after his last appearance on Episode 89 (“Fishing Streamers”) to share updates from Upper East Tennessee and to discuss the impact of recent storms, river debris, and community efforts to clean and preserve the waters we all depend on.Together, we dive into the shared responsibility anglers, guides, and outdoor enthusiasts have to maintain clean, healthy rivers—and how organized cleanups make a real difference.Highlights of the Episode:Whose River Is It? Reflecting on how we each experience and value rivers in our own way—and what that means for stewardship.From Talk to Action: David shares his “one-piece rule,” while Jason explains how his team turns small actions into large-scale cleanups.Organizing a Cleanup: Jason outlines what it takes to plan a successful river cleanup, from picking dates to partnering with local organizations.Incentives and Impact: How community support, great prizes, and volunteer spirit combine to make each event a success.After the Storm: The crew discusses recovery efforts and massive debris fields left behind by Hurricane Helene—and why continued cleanup is vital.Fishing Report: Streamer season is heating up, with rainbows and browns feeding aggressively on shad through the lower stretches of the Watauga and South Holston.Remember, keeping our rivers clean isn’t someone else’s job—it’s everyone’s. Join the conversation, mark your calendar for March, and help make a difference wherever you fish.Resources:Visit FlyingSoho.comInstagram: @flyingsohoLearn more about the Blue Ridge Guides Association cleanup and eventsSign up for the Southeastern Fly Newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events.Listen, share, and go fish—and leave the river better than you found it. 🎣 Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we crack open a practical primer on caddis flies—what they are, how to spot them, and simple ways to fish each stage. We recorded this one from our “satellite offices” in Florissant, Colorado, and it’s all about translating river observations into flies that work right now on Southeastern waters.Highlights of the EpisodeCaddis 101, quick and clear: life stages from egg → larva → pupa → adult—and why that sequence matters for your fly selection.Reading the river: vegetation is your friend—it feeds caddis larvae and signals where to drift (and what snags to expect).Soft-hackle smarts: think “legs forward” and a touch more bulk at the head when imitating the pupa rising to the film.Skate the dry: flip the hackle, keep it riding high, and add motion—then trail a soft hackle to cover the pupa coming up behind it.The evening show: look for bouncing egg-laying females in the last couple hours of light; they can trigger some of the most visual eats of the day.Match what’s actually there: kick-net a riffle, turn a rock, photograph shucks and adults in scum lines, then tie (or buy) to size/shape/color.Same river, different bugs: expect color and size shifts by section or tributary—one box won’t fit the whole tailwater.Field tip: if you’re wading and find risers, park and run that skating-dry/soft-hackle combo until the light fades.If you want us to go deeper on bugs or do a tying-focused follow-up, let us know—your ideas drive future episodes. While you’re here, tap to sign up for the newsletter for extra how-to content, and if you’re enjoying the show, please leave a positive review wherever you listen. Thanks for being part of Southeastern Fly!Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we take you along on a saltwater run to Dauphin Island. What started as a quick hit-and-run turned into a day-and-a-half of lessons on packing light, listening to your guide, and making the most of limited shots in the Gulf. From tripletail to tarpon-style waiting games, we cover what makes salt trips unique and how to set yourself up for success.Highlights of the Episode:Travel light—essentials only, let your guide supply the flies and tackle.Fishing with a buddy keeps things smooth, and borrowing rods beats hauling extras.Stand ready on the bow, avoid “leg lock,” and sway with the swell.Strip plenty of line off before the cast and help your partner keep decks clear.Guides know the cadence—short, calm strips often out-fish frantic retrieves.Saltwater fish are tough to find but often eager once spotted.Pivoting species and plans is part of the game; flexibility pays off.OWe also drew the winner of our TFO fly rod giveaway—congrats to Connor Baker! More giveaways and gear discounts are coming soon through the newsletter. Whether you’re planning your first salt trip or heading back for more, this episode will help you pack smarter, fish calmer, and enjoy the ride.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode, we dig into one of our favorite summer tactics: sight fishing. From salt to fresh, we talk through how we slow down, observe, and turn “hunt mode” on—so we’re not just casting at water, we’re casting at fish. Along the way, we share a quick story about post‑storm scum lines turning on, the calm mindset that helps you make the shot, and a few simple prep habits that keep you from blowing it when a big one finally slides into range.Key Highlights:Where sight fishing shines: dries, streamers, nymphs, and even crustaceans—in fresh or salt—whenever water clarity gives you a window. It’s fishing that feels like hunting.See first, cast second: polarized lenses are non‑negotiable; match lens color to conditions and revisit our sunglasses deep‑dive in Episode 48 for more.Gain elevation and “play not‑a‑fish”: get higher to look down into the water; rule out rocks, logs, and shadows until the fish reveals itself.Reading the pattern: after a summer storm, fish slid two to three feet under the surface and rose softly along narrow scum lines—hovering, ghosting, then reappearing. We slowed the boat, watched, and planned the shot.Stealth and patience win: no clanks, no splashes, and don’t rush the cast. If a fish ghosts, rest it—it’ll often return to the feed.Line management that matters: strip off enough line before your first cast so you’re not coming up short and educating fish.Calm execution: breathe, relax, and wait for the eat—then set. Think marksman: exhale before the trigger.Flies and behavior: summer fish may sip small dries or smash hoppers; watch caddis and sulfur activity to decide whether to drift, skate, or skitter.Salt notes: redfish often tolerate a closer shot; in peak heat we still default to stealth—and good glasses.Final checks before the shot: tie on your best bug for the moment, inspect knots and tippet, and have the line laid out so you can reach‑cast and mend as needed.We’re also kicking off a giveaway: one listener will win a TFO fly rod of their choice via a gift certificate—drawing from our newsletter list. To enter, subscribe using the link in these show notes or at SoutheasternFly.com. Thanks to Peter Jordan and TFO for making this possible.Listen in, then go fish—and if this episode helps you spot (and stick) a few more this summer, we’d love a follow and a positive review. See you on the water.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we dig into the art of “observating”—the practice of watching and learning from the river across all seasons, especially in the summer heat. We share tips for reading your water, from winter midge hatches and spring bug explosions to the challenges of fishing in triple-digit temps.We talk about how to know what’s happening on your river by watching bug activity, fish behavior, and even birds, plus why keeping yourself hydrated and fresh is just as important as picking the right fly. We answer the question: how hot is too hot to fish, and share real experiences from scorching days on the water.Whether you’re new to the river or a seasoned angler, this episode is about building your process through observation, trying new things, and keeping good notes so you’re always ready for what the water brings.Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, join our Facebook group, and sign up for the newsletter. Stay safe, stay cool, and keep observating!Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

Fishing dirty might sound controversial, but sometimes it’s the best way to put fish in the net—especially when conditions get tough. In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we’re joined by full-time guides Will and Eric Ezell for a no-holds-barred look at the “dirty” side of fly fishing: mop flies, worms, eggs, and the creative hybrid patterns guides turn to when the water’s high or nothing else seems to work.We cover:When and why to reach for mop flies, worms, and eggs—especially in stained or high water.How “dirty” flies like the mop worm are tied (and why you might find yourself at a craft store instead of a fly shop).The dirtiest, most creative rigs these guides have ever used, including outlandish multi-fly setups.Why these patterns work so well for both stocked and wild fish, and what makes them a staple in any guide’s box.If you’ve ever wondered what guides actually use when conditions get tough—or want permission to fish a little “dirty” yourself—this episode is packed with practical advice, stories, and laughs. Thanks for listening, and remember: sometimes catching fish means breaking a few rules.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we dive into a topic that's somehow become one of the most controversial in fishing—how to hold a fish. We get into the noise around fish photos, from hero shots and background blurring to heated debates about arm lengths and bank shots. But beyond all the opinions, we explore the heart of it: how the way we handle fish, and the calmness we bring to the moment, makes all the difference for both angler and catch.We share stories from the river, including a memorable day with Ron and his grandson Wyatt—a young angler whose calm spirit taught us all a little something about holding fish with care. From balancing fish on one hand (yes, we went through that phase) to admiring the deep, dark pupils of even the smallest catch, this episode is packed with reflections on the real joy of fishing. It's not about chasing perfection for the camera, but about honoring the experience, the effort, and the beauty of the day.Thanks for pushing play. Be sure to follow the show, sign up for our newsletter through the link in the show notes, and if you’re ready for your own day on the water, find us at southeasternfly.com. Until next time, remember: fishing is for the joy it brings—and when in doubt, admire the pupils.Resources:Visit southeasternfly.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA

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.comSign up for our newsletterProduced by NOVA