In this episode, we delve into the world of soft hackles, exploring techniques, setups, and tips to enhance your fishing game. From understanding how soft hackles imitate bugs to trying various rigging methods, this episode provides insights for both novice and seasoned anglers.

Key Highlights:

• Understanding Soft Hackles: Soft hackles are used to mimic bugs rising from the bottom to the surface, and are most effective when fish aren’t feeding on dries. Watching for backs and tails rather than head rises helps in identifying feeding fish ready for these emergers.
• Versatile Rigging Techniques: David shares various ways to fish soft hackles, including using them under a nymph or dry fly. Adjusting tippet length, loop rigging for mobility, and layering soft hackles with different weights and colors are discussed in depth.
• Fishing Multiple Soft Hackles: For a unique and highly effective technique, David introduces fishing multiple soft hackles on a swing. This method, similar to the “three-two-one” rib-cooking technique, requires precise positioning and different weights in a line to mimic varying bug stages and attract fish effectively.
• Adjusting Strips and Swings: Different stripping and mending techniques are crucial for maximizing bites. David recommends experimenting with swing speed, rod tip position, and strip variations to find what works best in different water conditions.
• Practical Tips: The episode emphasizes practical advice, such as checking knots frequently, adjusting setups based on fish behavior, and practicing casting for better distance and coverage.

From technique adjustments to systemizing your fishing approach, this episode is packed with tips that make soft hackles a versatile tool in any angler's arsenal. Listen in to learn how to effectively swing, rig, and adapt soft hackles for success on the water.

Make sure to share this episode with fellow anglers and catch us on YouTube for more fly fishing insights.

Produced by NOVA Media

Russ Madden provides an engaging look into the art and science of streamer fishing, covering a wide range of topics essential for novice and experienced anglers. david and Russ start by discussing the significance of understanding the specific fishing environment—how factors like water clarity, flow, and temperature play a pivotal role in selecting the right fly. Madden's vast experience has taught him that adapting to these conditions is crucial for success, and he offers practical tips on matching flies to local prey species, ensuring that anglers can maximize their chances of hooking a fish. This episode is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge of streamer fishing, blending technical advice with personal stories that resonate with all fishing enthusiasts.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the importance of water conditions is crucial for effective streamer fishing.
• Matching the fly color to the river's bottom color can greatly increase catch rates.
• Streamers can vary in size and weight; choose based on specific fishing conditions.
• Patience and mental fortitude are key attributes for successful streamer anglers.
• Utilizing local knowledge and adapting to changing conditions improves fishing success.
• Experimenting with different weights and fly designs can lead to discovering new techniques.

Produced by NOVA Media

In this insightful and reflective episode of Southeastern Fly, David delves into his long-standing quest for the perfect fly box. From stories of long-lost flies rediscovered to amusing thoughts on organizing gear, this episode offers an engaging look at the importance of the humble fly box in an angler's journey. Listeners learn how fly boxes evolve over time and how selecting the right flies can significantly impact fishing success.

Key Highlights:

• The Search for the Perfect Fly Box: David shares his experiences with various fly boxes, materials, and designs, recounting how each has served a different purpose over the years.
• Memories of Summer Fishing Trips: A nostalgic story about fishing with a friend, Brent, where tiny dry flies led to the catch of several 20-inch rainbow trout.
• Fly Box Materials and Inserts: Discussion on the different materials used in fly box inserts and how they affect fly storage and organization.
• Organizational Struggles: The host humorously describes his challenges in keeping gear organized, reflecting on whether a more focused approach to fly selection might improve fishing outcomes.
• The Plastic Cup Dilemma: A lighthearted take on the drawbacks of using plastic cups from fly shops as makeshift fly containers.

Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fly fishing, this episode offers practical insights, personal stories, and a good dose of humor. Tune in to Southeastern Fly and learn more about mastering the art of fly organization!

Be sure to subscribe, share with your fishing partners, and leave feedback for future episodes. See you on the water!

Produced by NOVA Media