In this episode, we sit down with Nick Conklin of TFO to demystify fly rod technology—what really makes one rod feel “better” than another, how length and taper translate on the water, and why practice beats price every time. We dig into practical choices anglers face, from building a daily driver to picking a specialized stick, and we call out a few industry realities that affect every shop and every caster.

Highlights of the Episode:

• The best rod is the one that fits your casting style, not the highest price tag.
• Rod costs come from components, cork, reel seats, finish, labor, and marketing.
• Longer rods offer efficiency in line pick-up, repositioning, and safer wading—not just distance.
• Action is where the rod bends; power is its resistance—accuracy comes from the caster.
• Watch your line to read your cast, start slow and finish fast, and learn the double haul.
• Always cast rods before buying—shops, shows, and friends are great places to try them out.
• Tariffs and regulations are driving up costs across rods, reels, lines, and apparel.
• Nick’s favorites include sharks in the Texas surf, Great Lakes steelhead, and Montana browns.
• For Dallas eats: St. Pete’s Dancing Marlin, Las Palapas, and classic Texas BBQ judged by the sides.
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Whether you’re picking your first rod or adding a specialty stick, this episode will help you choose wisely and cast better—be sure to follow, share, and leave us a quick review.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced 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.
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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.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA

North Alabama’s smallmouth waters are legendary, and in this episode, we get the locals’ guide to making the most of them. We sit down with Captain Tony Cox, a lifelong Tennessee River angler and guide, to explore the unique mix of lakes, tailraces, and creeks that define the Shoals.

Tony breaks down his favorite approaches for each water type, why heavy tackle matters here, and how to adapt when flows or weather change your plans. From sight-casting in clear creeks to battling big fish below TVA dams, you’ll get practical tips and a feel for the area’s fishing culture, including a few can’t-miss barbecue joints and local music lore.

Whether you’re planning a trip or just want to up your smallmouth game, this episode is packed with local wisdom and plenty of stories from the water. Listen in, share with a fishing partner, and don’t forget to sign up for the Southeastern Fly newsletter for more.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA