The Articulate Fly

The Articulate Fly
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The Articulate Fly Fly Fishing Podcast regularly releases interviews with national and regional personalities covering fly fishing, fly tying and fly fishing travel. We also regularly release fishing reports for the novice and experienced fly angler. Whether you just loved a River Runs Through It or you are a streamer junkie, a dry fly addict, a swinger or a nymph head, we have you covered! To learn more, visit www.thearticulatefly.com.

  1. 2 hr ago

    Weathering the Storm: Matt Reilly on Adapting to Summer Fishing Conditions

    Episode OverviewWhat happens to smallmouth bass fishing in Southwest Virginia when a big summer rain event hits after weeks of low, clear water? On this Southwest Virginia Fishing Report from The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide and writer Matt Reilly of Matt Reilly Fly Fishing for a real-time look at a region caught mid-storm, with rain hammering areas south of Radford and across northeast Tennessee while the New River itself stays comparatively unaffected. Matt breaks down why the coming days of rising, cooling, discolored water will actually put feeding smallmouth on more aggressive behavior than the low, clear conditions anglers had been dealing with, and why a passive, finesse-driven bug approach that worked so well in low water gives way to power fishing with bigger, darker profiles once the water comes up. He walks through the underlying logic: cooler water lowers a smallmouth's metabolic cost of chasing prey, rising flows create a predatory veil that lets fish hunt more boldly, and the same early-morning-versus-midday light and temperature gradient that governs a single summer day also governs the multi-day arc after a storm. Matt also answers a listener question about what conditions put smallmouth in a genuine feeding mood during the dog days of summer. The conversation closes with a look ahead to the fall calendar, as Matt discusses booking musky trips for the final weeks of the season and striped bass dates for next year, and points listeners to his monthly newsletter as the fastest way to hear about last-minute cancellations and openings. Key TakeawaysHow to read a rising, cooling and discoloring river as an opportunity rather than a setback for smallmouth fishing.Why finesse bug presentations dominate in low, clear, hot water while power fishing with streamers takes over once flows rise and temperatures drop.When to target slack water, eddies and bank cover with large, dark profiles during high, dirty water conditions.Why the same light-and-temperature gradient that drives fish activity within a single summer day also plays out across the days following a storm.How to stay ahead of last-minute musky and striper trip openings by subscribing directly to a guide's newsletter. Techniques & Gear CoveredMatt contrasts two core approaches for Southwest Virginia smallmouth: a passive, finesse-oriented topwater bug presentation suited to low, clear, high-pressure summer conditions, and a power-fishing approach built around larger profiles, darker colors, and faster retrieves once rain raises water levels and drops temperatures. He emphasizes targeting protected water, including slack water holes, eddies, and bank cover, when rivers run high and stained, since these areas concentrate fish that are less willing to fight heavy current. The conversation also touches on the same early-morning topwater and baitfish-imitating streamer window that opens before direct sun and rising temperatures push fish back into a more conservative feeding pattern later in the day. Locations & SpeciesThis report centers on the rivers of Southwest Virginia, including the New River and the broader drainages around Radford, Narrows and Pearisburg, with Matt tracking an active storm system moving through the region alongside spillover effects from flooding further north in West Virginia. Smallmouth bass are the primary target discussed, with the conversation focused on how a shift from low, clear, hot conditions to high, cool, discolored flows changes both fish behavior and angler strategy heading into the heart of summer. Matt also flags the approaching transition into fall, when Southwest Virginia's musky season picks up, along with striped bass dates he's already booking for the following year. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy does rising, cooler, dirtier water often improve smallmouth fishing instead of hurting it?Cooler water lowers the energy cost of chasing prey, so smallmouth can afford to move around and feed more aggressively than they do in low, clear, hot conditions. Rising, stained water also gives fish a kind of predatory veil that lets them hunt more boldly instead of feeding cautiously to avoid predators themselves. How should anglers adjust their approach right after a big rain event hits a smallmouth river?Matt's first move is to get below the freshest, most turbid water or find a stretch of river the storm has not fully reached yet. In the days that follow, the priority shifts to identifying the most promising combination of temperature, clarity and flow, since conditions can vary drastically from one stretch of river to the next after a storm. When should anglers use finesse bug fishing versus power fishing with streamers for smallmouth?Finesse bug presentations work best in low, clear, hot water, where fish feed conservatively and a subtle approach out-produces aggressive retrieves. Once water levels rise and temperatures drop, anglers should shift to fishing bigger, faster, and with darker colors in protected water like eddies and bank cover, since fish become willing to chase and expend more energy. What conditions put Southwest Virginia smallmouth into an active summer feeding mood?Beyond the day-to-day storm cycle, the same gradient shows up within a single day: lower light and cooler water temperatures in the early morning trigger windows of aggressive topwater and streamer activity, which then wanes as the sun climbs and the water warms through midday. When does musky season start in Southwest Virginia, and how can anglers get last-minute trip openings?Matt's musky season picks up on the tail end of smallmouth season, with October representing some of the last open dates before the fall push. Because cancellations and last-minute openings move fast, Matt recommends subscribing directly to his newsletter at mattreillyflyfishing.com, since that is where schedule changes get posted first. Related ContentS8, Ep 46 - Low Water, Big Bugs: Matt Reilly's Southwest Virginia Fishing Update S7, Ep 19 - Weathering the Winds: March Fishing Insights and Pre-Spawn Strategies with Matt Reilly S6, Ep 112 - Smallmouth Transitions and Musky Prep: Matt Reilly's Southwest VA Update S8, Ep 52 - Hot Days and Night Bites: Brian Shumaker's Guide to Pennsylvania Smallmouth Fishing Connect with Our GuestFollow Matt on Instagram. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources. Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast. Join our Patreon community to support the show. If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options. Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app. Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

    Weathering the Storm: Matt Reilly on Adapting to Summer Fishing Conditions

  2. 2 days ago

    Cool Waters and Hot Days: Mac Brown’s Guide to Summer Fishing

    Episode OverviewWith freestone trout streams across the Southeast pushing into the upper 60s and low 70s by mid-morning, serious anglers need a plan for beating the summer heat. On this Casting Angles installment of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash and Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown of Mac Brown Fly Fish and Fly Fishing Guide School in Bryson City, North Carolina, break down how to keep catching trout — or productively wait it out — when peak summer temperatures push freestone fishing to its limits. Mac and Marvin agree that the dog days of summer call for a shift in strategy rather than a day off the water. The conversation centers on East Tennessee's Watauga and South Holston tailwaters along with Western North Carolina's Nantahala, all three of which hold cold water for much of the day, plus the Clinch River below Norris Dam and the deep, cold Fontana Dam tailwater. By contrast, the Tuckasegee ("the Tuck") is a tailwater that doesn't run nearly as cold as the others, since its dam doesn't create enough head to keep the release chilled. The pair walk through the early-morning window — roughly daylight to 9:30 or 10 a.m. — as the best bet for active trout before heat shuts things down, and they recommend checking USGS gauges and the TroutRoutes app to confirm flows and water temperatures before heading out. When conditions simply aren't fishable, Mac and Marvin suggest reinvesting that time in casting practice or fly tying rather than forcing a trip. The episode closes with a teaser for Mac's upcoming fall casting schools, with full details and dates available at macbrownflyfish.com. Key TakeawaysHow to identify which regional tailwaters — the Watauga, South Holston, Clinch and Fontana releases — hold consistently cold, fishable water when freestone streams push past 69–70°F by mid-morning.Why fish in bigger bodies of water retreat to deeper, cooler holds as afternoon temperatures climb, making them much harder to reach with a fly.When to fish the early-morning window, roughly daylight to 9:30 or 10 a.m., for the best shot at active trout before the summer heat shuts down the bite.How to use USGS gauges and the TroutRoutes app to check release schedules and water temperatures before committing to a trip.Why elevation alone doesn't guarantee cold water, since even streams near 6,700–6,800 feet can push toward 70°F by mid-morning in peak summer heat.When to redirect fishing time toward casting practice or fly tying rather than forcing a trip into conditions that are too warm to fish well. Techniques & Gear CoveredThe core strategy discussed is prioritizing tailwaters over freestones during peak summer heat, since dam-regulated flows on rivers like the Watauga and South Holston hold consistently cold water while freestone streams climb toward 70°F by mid-morning regardless of elevation. Mac and Marvin recommend checking USGS stream gauges alongside the TroutRoutes app, a podcast sponsor (Use ARTFLY20 for 20% off), to review flow schedules and available water-temperature data before planning a trip. They also frame the early-morning window, from daylight until roughly 9:30 or 10 a.m., as the most productive stretch before warming water pushes safe fishing out of range. For anglers boxed in by travel or work schedules that don't line up with cooler weather, the hosts suggest using the downtime productively — working on casting fundamentals on a soccer field or similar open space, or tying flies indoors until conditions improve. Locations & SpeciesThe conversation centers on East Tennessee's two primary trout tailwaters, the Watauga and South Holston, along with the Nantahala in Western North Carolina — all three of which stay cold thanks to dam releases even as regional air temperatures spike. Mac also points to the Clinch River below Norris Dam in Tennessee — including a weir section that was fishing well as of a recent report — and to Fontana Dam's tailwater, where depth of nearly 470 feet keeps discharge in the low 50s even at the height of summer. By contrast, the Tuckasegee ("the Tuck") is a tailwater in Mac's home area that doesn't run nearly as cold, since its dam doesn't create enough head to chill the release the way the others do. Across all of these waters the target species is trout, with the guidance shaped entirely around peak summer heat: freestone streams in the region are pushing toward 69–70°F by 10 a.m. even at elevations of 6,700–6,800 feet, making the cold, stable tailwaters the more reliable option through the hottest stretch of the season. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy is trout fishing difficult during peak summer heat?As water temperatures climb through the day, trout in bigger bodies of water move deeper to find cooler conditions, which makes them much harder to reach with a fly. Even high-elevation freestone streams in the region can push toward 69–70°F by mid-morning, which is enough to shut down activity. Trout mortality rises significantly as water temperatures rise into the upper 60s making catch and release angling unethical. The trout will usually die post release. What time of day should anglers target trout streams during hot summer weather?The best window is early morning, roughly from daylight until 9:30 or 10 a.m., before water temperatures climb into the range that suppresses feeding activity and endangers trout post release. After that window closes, Mac and Marvin suggest shifting plans rather than fishing through the heat of the day. How can anglers check water conditions before a summer fishing trip?Marvin recommends checking release schedules and water temperatures using USGS stream gauges, along with the TroutRoutes app, which provides flow data and, on streams equipped with temperature gauges, water-temperature readings as well. Which tailwaters stay fishable through peak summer heat in this region?East Tennessee's Watauga and South Holston rivers hold cold water for much of the day. The Clinch River below Norris Dam and the Fontana Dam tailwater in Western North Carolina, which runs in the low 50s even in summer due to the dam's nearly 470-foot depth, are two other reliable cold-water options mentioned in the episode. What should anglers do when conditions are too hot to fish safely and effectively?Rather than forcing a trip into unproductive and unsafe heat, Mac and Marvin suggest using that time to work on casting fundamentals or to tie flies indoors, and to wait for a seasonal cool-down, which typically arrives as August progresses. Related ContentS8, Ep 50 - Navigating Summer Waters: Ellis Ward on Trout, Musky and the Art of the Evening Bite S8, Ep 49 - Mastering the Cast: Mac Brown's Insights on Shooting Line S8, Ep 45 - Casting Fundamentals: Mac Brown on the Art of the Reach Mend S8, Ep 41 - Offbeat Seasons and Terrestrial Tactics: Mac Brown's Fishing Strategies S8, Ep 48 - Summer Heat Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Smallmouth Tips View All Casting Angles Episodes with Mac Brown Connect with Our GuestFollow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our a href="https://thearticulatefly.substack.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    Cool Waters and Hot Days: Mac Brown’s Guide to Summer Fishing

  3. 17 Jul ·  Bonus

    Castability Unleashed: Mark Sedotti's Journey with the Sedotti Slammer

    Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash sits down with Mark Sedotti, inventor of the Sedotti Slammer and one of the pioneers of weight-balanced streamer design, to trace nearly 35 years of big-fly development for striped bass and bluefish. Sedotti explains why a lead keel and the right amount of absorbed water can make an oversized streamer cast further and more accurately than a small one, overturning decades of conventional wisdom that heavy flies are harder to throw. Working from western Long Island Sound, where he first tied the Slammer to imitate adult menhaden up to 15 inches long, Sedotti walks through the evolution of his high-and-low bucktail tying method, the construction of a rectangular lead keel to stop wide-profile flies from rolling, and the concept of weight balancing that ties it all together. He also details how the Slammer found its way to Michigan's Manistee River in the early 1990s, where guide Russ Maddin nicknamed it the Screaming Jesus and helped ignite the modern big-streamer trout movement. The conversation covers rod and line selection for casting giant flies, including Sedotti's signature Sayonara sling casting technique, along with retrieve mechanics, leader setups, and where to source materials and commercially tied Slammers. Anglers chasing striped bass, bluefish or trophy trout with oversized streamers will come away with a working framework for why some big flies cast beautifully and others simply won't turn over. Key TakeawaysHow to weight balance a streamer so it casts smoothly regardless of its size, rather than dragging through the airWhy adding water-absorbing materials like bucktail can improve a big fly's castability instead of hurting itHow to build a rectangular lead keel from lead wire to stop a wide-profile fly from rolling in the waterWhen to size a streamer to match adult versus immature baitfish, since selective stripers and bluefish may refuse flies shorter than the natural forageHow the Sayonara sling casting technique adds effective rod length and line speed for longer distance with a single-handed rodWhy a long leader of eight to nine feet improves fly action and strike rates when streamer fishing for trout Techniques & Gear CoveredSedotti's core concept is weight balancing: adding just enough weight to a streamer to counteract wind resistance and drag during the cast, which he discovered by building a rectangular lead keel out of 0.030-0.035 lead wire to prevent wide-profile flies from rolling. His high-and-low bucktail tying method, refined with input from Bob Popovics on achieving a three-dimensional bunker profile, remains consistent across pattern sizes from three and a half to over 20 inches, with synthetic yak hair, bucktail and feather substitutes used as natural saddle hackle and schlappen became harder to source. For casting, he favors a fast-action 11-weight rod paired with either integrated sinking lines, shooting heads or a floating line for shallow presentations, and retrieves with long, fast strips followed by a pause where most strikes occur. Locations & SpeciesSedotti developed the Slammer in western Long Island Sound around Greenwich, Port Chester, and Rye, New York, targeting striped bass and bluefish keyed in on schools of menhaden, or bunker, ranging from three and a half to over 15 inches depending on the season. He later carried medium-sized versions of the fly to Michigan's Manistee River, where it proved effective on trout and helped spark the region's big-streamer trout culture, as well as to Montana's Beaverhead River for trout. Today, he fishes deep structure at Montauk and Southwest Ledge on Block Island for large striped bass, working the fly 35 to 45 feet down on sinking lines. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat is weight balancing in streamer fly design, and why does it matter for castability?Weight balancing means adding enough weight to a fly to counteract the wind resistance created by its materials as it moves through the air during a cast. Mark Sedotti found that a properly weight-balanced fly, regardless of size, will false cast smoothly with a normal loop, while an unbalanced fly either drags or develops an uncontrollable loop. How do you build a keel to stop a wide-profile streamer from rolling?Sedotti wraps half-inch strips of lead wire in layers of five, stacking three levels to form a rectangular, raft-like keel along the underside of the hook shank. The exact method matters less than achieving the correct total weight for that specific fly to keep it weight balanced. Why can waterlogged flies actually cast better than dry ones?A dry fly with the same amount of bulky material is more wind resistant and harder to turn over, while a wet fly collapses and cuts through the air more easily. Sedotti found that the added weight from absorbed water often helps counteract that wind resistance, provided the fly isn't carrying so much water and weight that it becomes overloaded. What rod and line setup works best for casting large weight-balanced streamers?Sedotti prefers a fast-action 11-weight rod for big saltwater patterns, paired with either an integrated sinking line, a shooting head or a floating line depending on depth and structure. His Sayonara sling casting technique adds effective rod length and increases tip speed for longer casts with a single-handed rod. How did the Sedotti Slammer influence Michigan's big-streamer trout fishing?In the early 1990s, Sedotti brought a medium-sized Slammer to Michigan's Manistee River, where guide Russ Maddin was stunned by how aggressively trout attacked it and nicknamed it the Screaming Jesus. That introduction is widely credited with helping launch the modern big-streamer trout movement centered around Michigan's guiding community. SponsorsThanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use ARTFLY20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership. Related ContentBONUS: Tying the Circus Peanut: Streamer Secrets and Fishing Strategies with Russ Maddin BONUS: Mastering the Beast: A Deep Dive into Bob Popovics' Legendary Fly with Captain Ben Whalley BONUS: A Deep Dive into the Swingin' D: Techniques and Tips with Mike Schultz Connect with Our GuestFollow Mark on YouTube. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources. Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast. Join our Patreon community to support the show. If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options. Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app. Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us. Helpful Episode Chapters0:00:00 Introduction 0:02:33 Designing the Original Slammer 0:06:43 Unlocking Castability 0:15:33 Perfecting the Profile 0:19:17 Synthetic Evolution 0:32:53 Michigan Streamer Breakthrough 0:47:15 Casting Big Flies Well 0:53:42 Lines and Leaders 0:56:35 Fishing the Retrieve 1:06:26 Final Thoughts on Weight Balance

    Castability Unleashed: Mark Sedotti's Journey with the Sedotti Slammer

  4. 15 Jul

    Hot Days and Night Bites: Brian Shumaker’s Guide to Pennsylvania Smallmouth Fishing

    Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for a midsummer conditions update on the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania. Recorded following a stretch of triple-digit heat punctuated by heavy rain, the report finds Shumaker firmly in prime topwater season, with blue damselflies coming off heavy from late morning into the evenings and the white fly hatch on deck for the end of July into early August. Shumaker walks through his day-to-day approach on the water: starting clients with a popping bug and a streamer or crayfish pattern first thing in the morning, then committing fully to topwater by mid-morning. On color selection, he leans on Carolina blue Boogle Bugs and smaller blockhead poppers, with yellow still producing thanks to lingering sulphurs, and blue, white, yellow and green all working depending on the day. For the white fly window, he skips realistic dries in favor of a Clouser's Floating Minnow or a small white popper twitched across the surface after dark. The conversation also covers river conditions following recent heavy rain — both the Susquehanna and Juniata are dropping from a solid slug of water but haven't bottomed out, with more rain possibly on the way. Shumaker shares his theory on why big smallmouth become nocturnal feeders once water temperatures push into the high 80s, and closes with fall booking availability for late September into early October. Key TakeawaysHow to structure a summer smallmouth day on the Susquehanna and Juniata by starting with a popper-and-streamer combo and shifting fully to topwater by mid-morning.Why blue, white, yellow and green popper colors are all producing right now, tied to peak blue damselfly activity and the tail end of the sulphur hatch.When to expect the white fly hatch to begin on the Susquehanna system, and how to switch presentations from realistic dries to a Clouser's Floating Minnow or a small twitched popper after dark.Why big smallmouth bass shift to nocturnal feeding once water temperatures climb into the high 80s, and how that changes where and when to target trophy fish.How to read post-rain conditions on the Susquehanna and Juniata, since both rivers were dropping from a recent high-water event without bottoming out. Techniques & Gear CoveredShumaker's summer topwater program centers on popping bug fishing, with a Carolina blue Boogle Bug and smaller blockhead poppers as the go-to producers, plus a yellow Boogle Bug that still draws strikes off the lingering sulphur hatch. Early in the day he'll pair a popper with a streamer or crayfish pattern on a second rod to gauge activity before committing to topwater for the rest of the day. For the incoming white fly hatch, he moves away from imitative dry patterns like a size 12 white Wulff in favor of a Clouser's Floating Minnow tied with a white head and white bucktail, or a smaller white popper twitched across the surface after dark. He also discusses fishing after dark generally as a heat-avoidance and big-fish strategy once water temperatures push into the high 80s and large smallmouth shift to feeding on baitfish and small critters swimming across the river after sunset. Locations & SpeciesThe report covers the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania, both of which received a significant rain event that pushed flows up before beginning to recede; the Juniata remains somewhat stained while the Susquehanna is dropping into more fishable shape, with additional rain possible by the weekend. Smallmouth bass are the primary target, with the fishery currently in full topwater mode driven by heavy blue damselfly activity and the approach of the white fly hatch. Shumaker also notes water temperatures reaching the high 80s, which pushes larger, trophy-class smallmouth into nocturnal feeding patterns on baitfish and small terrestrial prey. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat is the best popper color for summer smallmouth on the Susquehanna and Juniata?Blue is the top producer right now, particularly a Carolina blue Boogle Bug or smaller blockhead poppers, matching the heavy blue damselfly activity. Yellow poppers are also working off the tail end of the sulphur hatch, and white and green will draw strikes as well. When does the white fly hatch start on the Susquehanna river system?Shumaker expects the white fly hatch to begin rolling in at the end of July into the beginning of August. It comes off heavy and after dark, which changes both fly selection and the timing of a day on the water. Why do big smallmouth bass become nocturnal feeders in the summer?Shumaker's theory is that once water temperatures climb into the high 80s, larger fish shift to feeding after dark, whether to beat the heat or take advantage of baitfish and small critters swimming across the river at night. Fishing after dark is one way anglers can target trophy fish while also avoiding the worst of the daytime heat. How are the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers fishing after recent heavy rain?Both rivers received a solid slug of water and are dropping, with the Juniata still somewhat stained. Conditions aren't expected to bottom out before additional rain arrives, which should help keep flows consistent heading into the following week. When is the best time to book a fall smallmouth trip with Brian Shumaker?Shumaker highlights the last half of September through the first two weeks of October as a sweet spot, offering cooler conditions than peak summer while still fishing well for Susquehanna and Juniata smallmouth. Related ContentS8, Ep 48 - Summer Heat Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Smallmouth Tips S8, Ep 43 - Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal Shifts: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Report S8, Ep 39 - High Water Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Smallmouth Insights S8, Ep 34 - Frog Patterns and Fishing Strategies: Brian Shumaker's Late Spring Smallmouth Report Connect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources. Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast. Join our Patreon community to support the show. If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options. Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app. Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

    Hot Days and Night Bites: Brian Shumaker’s Guide to Pennsylvania Smallmouth Fishing

  5. 10 Jul

    Summer Stream Insights: George Costa on Conditions, Patterns and Upcoming Events

    Episode OverviewIn this Central PA Fishing Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop in State College, Pennsylvania, for a real-time midsummer conditions update. A cooler, wetter stretch of weather has replaced the previous week's heat, giving Central Pennsylvania's limestone streams a welcome break heading into the weekend. Costa reports that Spring Creek, Penns Creek and Fishing Creek are all running a little above average and slightly off-color after a soaking rain earlier in the week, while the Little Juniata took on considerably more water and needs roughly another day to clear and become fully fishable again. Water temperatures have benefited from the cooler nights and days, though Costa flags the need to keep an eye on afternoon readings as they push toward the high 60s later in the season. On the bug front, Tricos are just getting started on Spring Creek and nearby waters, with the best window running from 8 to 11 in the morning, alongside lingering Cahills and golden stones on the dry fly side and Cahills and caddis in the evenings. Terrestrials, however, are the clear standout right now: ants, greenie weenies, beetles and crickets are producing well as summer patterns take over. Nymphing remains steady, and Costa notes a handful of anglers found success swinging streamers in the higher, off-color water this week. Costa also previews TCO's remaining summer calendar, including the Bass Thumb smallmouth tournament on the Susquehanna and Juniata Rivers and the outdoor fly fishing festival coming up in early August at Boiling Springs. Key TakeawaysHow to identify prime Trico water on Spring Creek and time the hatch for the 8 to 11 a.m. window when action is strongest.Why terrestrial patterns like ants, greenie weenies, beetles and crickets are outproducing traditional hatch-matching flies in Central PA right now.When to switch to streamers on Spring Creek, Penns Creek and Fishing Creek during periods of higher, off-color water.Why monitoring afternoon water temperatures matters as summer conditions push streams toward the high 60s.When to expect thunderstorm-driven flow spikes to subside on Central PA freestone and limestone water this time of year. Techniques & Gear CoveredCosta's report centers on a classic midsummer technique mix for Central Pennsylvania's limestone streams: morning Trico dry fly fishing on Spring Creek, terrestrial presentations (ants, greenie weenies, beetles and crickets) through the heart of the day and evening dry fly work with Cahills and caddis patterns. He also flags golden stones as a still-active dry fly option and notes that nymphing continues to produce consistent results across the region's waters. For anglers facing higher, off-color flows following rain events, Costa recommends switching to streamer presentations, which produced well for several anglers this week on water that had come up and lost clarity. Locations & SpeciesThis report covers Central Pennsylvania's core limestone and freestone trout fisheries: Spring Creek, Penns Creek and Fishing Creek, all running a little above average and slightly off-color following recent rain, plus the Little Juniata, which took on significantly more water and remains blown out but should clear within about a day. Wild and stocked trout are the primary target throughout. Seasonally, this is a midsummer transition window, with cooler-than-average temperatures providing a temporary reprieve from the prior week's heat, morning Trico hatches just getting underway and terrestrial season firmly established as the dominant daytime feeding driver. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhen is the best time to fish Tricos on Spring Creek in Central PA?Costa reports Tricos are just getting underway on Spring Creek and other area streams, with the best window running between 8 and 11 in the morning. He notes this timing typically holds through the rest of the summer as the hatch builds. Why should anglers pay attention to afternoon water temperatures in Central PA during summer?As the season progresses, afternoon water temperatures on some Central PA streams will start pushing into the high 60s, which can stress trout. Costa advises anglers to check afternoon temps as the season progresses. What terrestrial patterns are working best right now in Central PA?Costa identifies ants, greenie weenies, beetles and crickets as the key terrestrial patterns producing results this time of year. He recommends these as the go-to searching patterns during the midsummer terrestrial window. Should anglers fish streamers when Central PA streams are up and off-color?Yes. Costa notes that a couple of anglers did well on streamers this week specifically because the water was up and running off-color, reinforcing that elevated, discolored flows are a good trigger to switch from dries or nymphs to streamer presentations. What TCO Fly Shop events are coming up this summer?The Bass Thumb tournament, a smallmouth bass event on the West Branch of the Susquehanna and the Juniata River, was running the weekend of this recording. TCO's outdoor fly fishing festival at Boiling Springs follows in the first week of August at Children's Lake Park. Related ContentS8, Ep 17 - Spring Awakening: George Costa on Central PA Fishing and Upcoming Hatches S7, Ep 70 - The Dog Days of Summer: Trico Tactics in Central PA with George Costa S8, Ep 47 - Central PA Fishing Forecast: George Costa's Summer Stream Insights S8, Ep 42 - Exploring Terrestrials and Summer Patterns: George Costa's Fishing Forecast Connect with Our GuestFollow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources. Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast. Join our Patreon community to support the show. If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options. Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app. Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

    Summer Stream Insights: George Costa on Conditions, Patterns and Upcoming Events

  6. 9 Jul

    Navigating Summer Waters: Ellis Ward on Trout, Musky and the Art of the Evening Bite

    Episode OverviewHow do East Tennessee anglers keep varied, high-quality fishing going through the peak of summer heat? On this East Tennessee Fishing Report from The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide Ellis Ward for a summer conditions update covering tailwater trout, musky and an evening-into-night program that few outfitters offer. The answer, as Ellis explains, comes down to water: East Tennessee's cold tailwater releases stay productive for trout even on the hottest days, while nearby musky water holds in the low 70s, giving anglers a rare menu of species and techniques regardless of the forecast. The conversation moves through an unusually strong summer streamer bite for brown trout in the 14- to 25-inch range, with Ellis explaining why section-to-section variability and angler expectations matter more than any single pattern or retrieve. He describes his preference for targeting fewer, bigger fish rather than fishing indicators for numbers days, and details the close-to-the-surface, low-light strikes that produce the most violent, committed eats of the season, comparing that aggression to how post-spawn fish feed. He also breaks down how tributary runoff and turbidity from high water can create inconsistent windows for sulphur hatch dry fly activity, with fish keying on bug availability tied to clarity and light rather than air temperature alone. A significant portion of the episode focuses on Ellis' evening-into-night program, in which he chases the hatch transition into mousing for trophy browns, offering a different rhythm than the typical 8-to-4 lodge schedule. He closes with a candid discussion of the physical toll that late-night guiding takes and why July and August are the prime window for anglers wanting to experience the full range of the summer program in a single trip. Key TakeawaysHow East Tennessee tailwaters stay cold enough to keep trout fishing productive through the hottest days of summer while nearby musky water holds steady in the low 70s, opening up options other regions lose to summer heat.Why summer streamer success depends more on managing expectations and reading section-to-section conditions than on any single fly pattern or retrieve.When cloudier, lower-light conditions and fishing a streamer closer to the surface tend to produce the highest-commitment, violent strikes from large brown trout, a pattern Ellis compares to the aggressive feeding behavior of post-spawn fish.Why targeting fewer, bigger fish with streamers can outperform indicator-based numbers days once summer bite windows narrow.Why tributary runoff and increased turbidity can shut down sulphur hatch dry fly activity even when conditions otherwise look promising.How targeting the evening hatch transition into night mousing opens up trophy brown trout opportunities that most lodge-based trip schedules miss entirely.When to plan a summer trip to experience streamers, dry flies, mousing and musky fishing all within the same visit. Techniques & Gear CoveredEllis walks through his summer streamer approach, targeting fewer and bigger fish rather than running indicators for numbers days, with an emphasis on two-handed retrieves using Game Changer-style patterns, Clousers and Kreelex Minnows depending on light and water clarity. The season's standout strikes come close to the surface in lower light and stained water, producing the kind of committed, violent takes he compares to post-spawn feeding behavior. On the dry fly side, sulphur hatch activity is the primary summer draw, though Ellis stresses that bug emergence tracks closely with turbidity and cloud cover rather than simply air temperature. For the evening program, he transitions from dry fly presentations on 4- and 5-weight rods into mousing after dark, a tactic that demands patience and a mental approach he compares to musky fishing. Gear spans a wide range, from 4-weight dry fly rods up through 8-weight streamer setups, along with baitcasting gear for musky depending on what the day calls for. Locations & SpeciesThis report covers East Tennessee tailwater fisheries, where cold water released from upstream reservoirs keeps trout fishing productive even during the region's hottest summer stretches, when many other regions see fishing quality decline. Target species include brown trout in the 14- to 25-inch range, with fish on the higher end of that range producing the season's most memorable streamer eats, along with musky and striper as secondary targets depending on conditions and angler interest. Seasonal context centers on summer heat management: tailwater releases keep trout water cold while separate musky water stays in the low 70s, and periodic tributary runoff introduces turbidity that shapes both streamer and dry fly windows day to day. Ellis notes that the July-to-August window offers the widest range of options, with the program shifting away from streamers, dry flies and mousing once fall arrives. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy does East Tennessee offer such varied summer fishing options compared to other regions?Tailwater releases keep trout water cold and productive even on the hottest days of the year, while nearby musky water holds in the low 70s during the same stretch, an unusual combination most regions don't have. That range lets anglers choose between trout, musky or even striper depending on conditions and preference, without summer heat shutting down the fishing. How does summer streamer fishing vary throughout the day and across a river?Ellis emphasizes that the same stretch of river can look completely different four hours apart, so consistency in technique matters more than chasing a single hot bite window. He also cautions that angler expectations often outpace reality, since most fish will not slam a streamer the way anglers picture, and staying mentally locked in over a full day continues to pay off even during slower stretches. He also contrasts his approach of targeting fewer, bigger fish with the higher-volume numbers days some anglers chase using strike indicators. Why does dry fly activity slow down even when sulphur hatches are strong?Tributary runoff following recent flooding pushes turbidity into tailwater sections, and bugs are less likely to emerge in off-color water regardless of temperature or time of year. Fish and insects both respond to clarity and light, so a little color in the water often produces better dry fly activity than gin-clear conditions, particularly under overcast skies. Why does Ellis Ward run an evening-into-night fishing program instead of a standard daytime schedule?Chasing the evening hatch transition into mousing lets anglers catch the window when big fish become most active and least pressured, since most lodge-based trips are off the water by late afternoon. Ellis acknowledges the tradeoff is real: trips can run past midnight, and sustaining that schedule night after night is physically demanding, even though he considers it worth it for the fish it produces. When is the best time to book an East Tennessee trip for the full summer program?Ellis recommends the July-to-August window for anglers who want to experience streamers, dry flies, mousing and musky fishing in a single visit, since that stretch offers the widest range of conditions and techniques. He notes this program runs for roughly three to four months before shifting focus by fall. Related ContentS7, Ep 45 - Navigating the Waters: Streamers and Strategies in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward S8, Ep 12 - Flows and Focus: Navigating Spring Fishing in East Tennessee with Ellis Ward S6, Ep 98 - Navigating Late Summer Waters and Mousing Tactics with Ellis Ward S6, Ep 142 - Winter Musky Adventures and Streamer Tactics with Ellis Ward Connect with Our GuestFollow Ellis and Flyzotics on Instagram. Follow Ellis on YouTube. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our a...

    Navigating Summer Waters: Ellis Ward on Trout, Musky and the Art of the Evening Bite

  7. 8 Jul

    Mastering the Cast: Mac Brown's Insights on Shooting Line

    Episode OverviewHow do skilled fly casters actually maximize distance by shooting line, and why do most anglers overestimate how well they have mastered it? On this Casting Angles segment of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash reconnects with Master Casting Instructor Mac Brown of Mac Brown Fly Fish in Bryson City, North Carolina, for a deep dive into the mechanics of shooting line. Drawing on college-level research using high-speed cameras and strobe lights, Mac explains why the vast majority of anglers who claim they shoot line well are really only releasing a foot or two rather than developing true mastery of the skill. The conversation covers how to slip line out efficiently before a cast even begins, using a roll-cast pickup to shoot line on both the pickup and the back cast so a caster can go from a modest working distance to 90 feet or more in a single sequence. Mac also unpacks why an elliptical stroke, such as a Belgian or constant-tension cast, is far more efficient for shooting line on the back cast than the vertical stroke used for accuracy casting, since the rod can point directly at the unrolling line. A key technical thread running through the episode is the importance of holding the running line in an "okay" symbol grip between the thumb and index finger, which reduces line oscillation through the stripping guide from several feet down to just a few inches and produces significantly more shooting distance. Marvin and Mac close by discussing a simple self-assessment drill anglers can use to honestly measure their own progress, along with details on Mac's fall casting school offerings. Key TakeawaysHow to shoot more line on both the pickup and the back cast by using a roll-cast pickup so a single forward delivery can reach up to 90 feet.Why holding the running line in an "okay" symbol grip between the thumb and index finger reduces line oscillation through the stripping guide and produces significantly greater shooting distance.How to slip line out efficiently on an up-and-across drift by feeding line back out rather than retrieving all the way in before recasting.Why an elliptical stroke, such as a Belgian or constant-tension cast, shoots line more efficiently on the back cast than the vertical stroke used for accuracy casting.How to honestly assess mastery of shooting line by measuring the single-cast distance gain from a fixed starting length rather than trusting subjective confidence.When to isolate shooting line on the forward cast alone as a practice drill before combining it with the back cast. Techniques & Gear CoveredThe episode centers on the mechanics of shooting line, including the difference between shooting on the forward cast and the back cast and how stroke shape changes the amount of line a caster can release. Mac details the "okay" symbol grip for controlling running line, the roll-cast pickup as a method for shooting line before the delivery stroke even begins, and the pause-power-path framework (the "three P's") that underlies casting mechanics generally. He also references the Belgian cast and constant-tension cast as elliptical-stroke techniques suited to shooting large amounts of line on the back cast, a style more commonly associated with saltwater casting. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat does it mean to "shoot line" in fly casting?Shooting line means releasing slack line from the non-casting hand during the forward or back cast so the line travels farther. Mac Brown explains that nearly every angler believes they already shoot line effectively, but letting a foot or two slip out is very different from developing the mechanics needed to shoot 30 feet or more with a single stroke. How can I get more line out before I even start my delivery cast?Rather than retrieving line all the way back in on an upstream drift and then trying to recast the full distance, feed line back out as the fly drifts toward and past you so you maintain most of your working distance. Using a roll-cast pickup also lets you shoot additional line right on the pickup itself, then shoot again on the back cast, setting up a much bigger forward delivery. Why should I hold my running line in an "okay" symbol grip instead of just letting it go?Holding the line between the thumb and index finger reduces the oscillation of the line as it travels through the small stripping guide, from roughly 3 to 5 feet of movement down to just 3 to 5 inches. Mac's college-level research with high-speed cameras showed this controlled release produces significantly more shooting distance than simply releasing the line freely. How do I know if I have actually mastered shooting line?Start at a fixed distance, such as 30 feet, and measure how far a single back cast and forward cast can carry the line. If the total only increases to 35 or 40 feet, Mac says that indicates the caster has not developed real mastery, since anglers with genuine skill can add significantly more distance in that single sequence. Why is an elliptical stroke better than a vertical stroke for shooting line on the back cast?An elliptical stroke, such as a Belgian cast or constant-tension cast, keeps the rod pointed at the unrolling line throughout the stroke, which is far more efficient for shooting line. A vertical stroke used for accuracy casting bends the line's path over more of an angle, which limits how much line can be released on the back cast. Related ContentS7, Ep 16 - Simplifying Complexity: Effective Teaching Strategies in Fly Fishing with Mac Brown S8, Ep 45 - Casting Fundamentals: Mac Brown on the Art of the Reach Mend S7, Ep 20 - Practice Makes Perfect: Mac Brown on Mastering Casting Techniques Connect with Our GuestFollow Mac on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources. Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast. Join our Patreon community to support the show. If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options. Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app. Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

    Mastering the Cast: Mac Brown's Insights on Shooting Line

  8. 1 Jul

    Summer Heat Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Smallmouth Tips

    Episode OverviewA scorching Fourth of July heat wave is bearing down on Central Pennsylvania, and the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers are about to test every smallmouth angler's heat tolerance. On this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report from The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for a candid, safety-first conversation about fishing smallmouth bass through triple-digit conditions. With water temperatures pushing into the 90s and a 101-degree forecast on the horizon, Brian breaks down how heat affects both the bite and angler safety on his home waters. The Juniata offers some bankside shade thanks to its narrower channel, while the three-quarter-mile-wide Susquehanna leaves anglers largely exposed. Brian and Marvin trade practical advice on hydration, sun protection and timing strategy, then dig into the tactical adjustments that keep smallmouth on the line when conditions turn brutal. That includes a hard pivot to tropical fly lines once standard fly lines start going soupy in the heat, plus a shade-line and riffle-focused approach using poppers, crayfish patterns and baitfish imitations like the Murdich Minnow. The two also debate the merits of an early-morning session versus a late-afternoon-into-dark float, with Brian making a clear case for the latter. It is a short, practical episode built around one core message: protect yourself first, then adapt your tactics to the heat. Key TakeawaysHow to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related risks while fishing smallmouth in 100-plus-degree conditionsWhy tropical fly lines outperform standard fly lines once summer heat sets inWhen to fish for the best results during a heat wave: a late-afternoon-into-dark session over an early-morning startHow to use shade lines and oxygenated riffles to locate active smallmouth during the hottest part of the dayWhich fly patterns to throw when water temperatures push into the 90s, including poppers, crayfish patterns and baitfish imitations like the Murdich MinnowWhy caffeine and alcohol should be avoided in favor of water and sports drinks on extreme-heat fishing days Techniques & Gear CoveredBrian outlines a shade-line and riffle-focused approach for fishing smallmouth through extreme summer heat, working topwater poppers along shaded banks and rolling crayfish patterns through riffles where oxygen levels run higher. For subsurface presentations, he reaches for baitfish imitations including the Murdich Minnow and Shimmering Minnow patterns. The single biggest gear adjustment for this stretch of summer is the fly line itself: Brian made the switch to tropical lines years ago, since standard fly lines turn soft and sticky once water and air temperatures climb to summer levels. On the sun-protection side, the conversation covers sun hoodies with built-in buff gaiters, quick-dry SPF nylon pants and wide-brim hats as practical defenses against extended midday exposure on open water like the Susquehanna. Locations & SpeciesThis report centers on the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania, Brian's primary guide waters out of Susquehanna River Guides. Smallmouth bass are the target species throughout. The conversation is framed around peak summer heat conditions heading into the Fourth of July, with water temperatures pushing into the 90s and air temperatures forecast to hit 101 degrees. The Juniata's narrower channel and tree-lined banks provide more shade options than the much wider Susquehanna, where shade is largely limited to the banks themselves, making shade-line and riffle strategy especially important on the bigger river during this stretch. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhy do tropical fly lines work better than standard fly lines for summer smallmouth fishing?Standard fly lines turn soft and sticky as water and air temperatures climb to summer levels, making them difficult to cast and fish effectively. Tropical lines are built to hold their stiffness and performance in high heat, which is why Brian made the permanent switch starting around July and continuing through early September. How can anglers stay safe while fly fishing in extreme heat?Brian and Marvin recommend drinking water at least every 30 to 45 minutes throughout the day, and avoiding both alcohol and caffeine since both contribute to dehydration. Full sun coverage matters too, including 50 SPF sunscreen, sun hoodies with built-in gaiters, quick-dry SPF clothing and a wide-brim hat, even when fishing in or near shade. What time of day is best for fishing smallmouth bass during a heat wave?Brian prefers getting on the water around 5 p.m. and fishing until dark, rather than starting at first light. A late-afternoon start avoids the pre-dawn shuttle logistics of an early session while still delivering enough usable light to fish productively until around 9 or 9:15 p.m. What fly patterns work best for smallmouth bass when water temperatures push into the 90s?Topwater poppers worked along shade lines remain effective, and crayfish patterns produce well when fished through oxygenated riffles. For baitfish presentations, Brian reaches for the Murdich Minnow and Shimmering Minnow patterns. How can anglers find productive water on a wide river like the Susquehanna during peak summer heat?Since the three-quarter-mile-wide Susquehanna offers little overhead shade beyond its banks, Brian focuses on fishing the available shade lines along the banks combined with oxygenated riffle sections, rather than expecting shade relief across the open channel the way a narrower river like the Juniata provides. Related ContentS8, Ep 43: Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal Shifts: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Report S8, Ep 39: High Water Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Pennsylvania Smallmouth Insights S8, Ep 34: Frog Patterns and Fishing Strategies: Brian Shumaker's Late Spring Smallmouth Report S8, Ep 31: Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring Weather S8, Ep 46: Low Water, Big Bugs: Matt Reilly's Southwest Virginia Fishing Update Connect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram. Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube. Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources. Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast. Join our Patreon community to support the show. If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options. Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app. Think our community is a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.

    Summer Heat Strategies: Captain Brian Shumaker's Smallmouth Tips
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About

The Articulate Fly Fly Fishing Podcast regularly releases interviews with national and regional personalities covering fly fishing, fly tying and fly fishing travel. We also regularly release fishing reports for the novice and experienced fly angler. Whether you just loved a River Runs Through It or you are a streamer junkie, a dry fly addict, a swinger or a nymph head, we have you covered! To learn more, visit www.thearticulatefly.com.

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  • Creator
    The Articulate Fly
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    1.1k
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Articulate Fly LLC
  • Show Website
    The Articulate Fly

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