In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we take a deep dive into the art of fly tying. Answering a listener's question, we share our thoughts on how to approach this rewarding but sometimes overwhelming aspect of fly fishing. Whether you're a seasoned tier or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice and personal insights to help you make the most of your time at the bench.

Key Highlights:

• Organization Matters: We discuss the importance of organizing your materials, from hooks to marabou, so you always know what you have and can avoid overbuying or using subpar supplies.
• Confidence is Key: Learn why confidence in your flies—both how they’re tied and how they perform—is critical to success on the water and how systematic practice can help you build it.
• Investing in Quality: We emphasize why choosing quality materials can make a big difference in the durability and effectiveness of your flies.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Whether it's spinning deer hair or mastering a clean whip finish, we explain how repetition and tracking your progress can sharpen your skills and build consistency.
• Learning from Others: We highlight resources like Fly Fish Food and Slide Inn, where tutorials and videos can guide you through tricky techniques and help you level up your tying game.

Fly tying is about more than just creating patterns—it’s a way to stay connected to the water and prepare for the adventures ahead. We hope this episode helps you approach tying with a sense of purpose, confidence, and maybe even a little humor. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Southeastern Fly!

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we dive deep into the scenic beauty and rich history of Alabama’s Tallapoosa River with warm-water fly-fishing specialist, Drew Morgan. From the river’s fascinating origins in the Muskogee language to its unique characteristics as a relatively untouched waterway in the Piedmont region, Drew brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the discussion.

The Tallapoosa is more than a fishing spot—it’s a connection to the past, where nature and history intertwine. Drew shares insights into the diverse fish species inhabiting the river, including the native Alabama bass and Tallapoosa bass (formerly known as red-eye bass). He breaks down their behaviors, preferred habitats, and the techniques to entice these feisty fighters on the fly.

Highlights from the Episode:

• Geological and Historical Context: Learn about the Tallapoosa’s role as a throwback river, offering a glimpse into a time before industrial development.
• Fishing Tactics and Gear: Discover Drew’s go-to setups, including fast-action rods and fly lines tailored for navigating the river’s rock gardens and shoals.
• Topwater Magic: Uncover why the Tallapoosa is considered one of the best rivers in the South for topwater fly fishing, with Drew’s favorite patterns and profiles that make bass strike.
• Seasonal Tips: Whether you’re chasing big bass in the cooler months or enjoying topwater action in summer, Drew highlights the best times to visit the river.
• Stories from the Water: Hear about the heartbreak and thrill of the one that got away, as Drew recounts his encounters with unforgettable fish.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to fish in a river that feels untouched by time, this episode will inspire you to experience the Tallapoosa firsthand. From the serene beauty of the Piedmont region to the camaraderie of casting with friends, the Tallapoosa offers something special for every angler.

To book a trip or learn more about Drew Morgan, visit East Alabama Fly Fishing.

Produced by NOVA

From high atop the world headquarters of Southeastern Fly, it’s me, David, bringing you another episode packed with tips, stories, and a little bit of humor to help you become a better angler. This time, I’m diving into what I like to call “common sense tips for fly fishing.” These are the kind of reminders that can make all the difference when you’re out on the water.

Key Highlights:

• Have a Plan: One of the most important things I’ve learned over the years is to start with a solid plan. Whether it’s scouting for rising fish, selecting flies, or figuring out how to approach a spot, a little preparation goes a long way.
• Wade Smartly: Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to wading. Moving too fast or carelessly can send waves or spook fish before you even get a cast in. I’ll share tips to help you keep a low profile and stay in the game.
• Casting Wisely: Bad casts happen to everyone—even me—but it’s all about how you handle them. Instead of yanking a fly out of the water and spooking fish, I explain why you should sometimes just let the cast play out.
• Observation is Key: Fly fishing isn’t just about the cast. Watching the water, the fish, and how your fly is behaving can give you insights to improve your chances of success. I share a few personal examples of how observation has saved the day for me.
• Lessons from Mistakes: Let’s face it—nobody gets it right every time, but every mistake is a chance to learn. I’ve got a story or two from Eleven Mile Canyon that proves even the best-laid plans can go awry.

Story Time: This episode wouldn’t be complete without a tale from the river. I take you with me to a cold, snowy day in Colorado’s Eleven Mile Canyon, where the fish were rising, the wind was howling, and I was determined to solve the puzzle of what they were eating. Spoiler: things didn’t always go as planned, but there’s always something to take away from the experience.

Final Thoughts: At the end of the day, it’s all about making the most of your time on the water. That means preparing, observing, and being deliberate in every move you make—whether it’s wading, casting, or selecting flies. I hope these common-sense tips remind you to slow down, think ahead, and enjoy the process.

If you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for the Southeastern Fly newsletter. It’s loaded with updates, tips, and recaps to keep you in the loop and sharpen your skills. Thanks for tuning in, and until next time—tight lines and happy fishing!

Produced by NOVA