The Long Haul with The Articulate Fly

The Articulate Fly
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The Long Haul Fly Fishing Podcast with The Articulate Fly regularly releases interviews with national and regional personalities covering fly fishing, fly tying and fly fishing travel. If you love The Articulate Fly Fly Fishing Podcast interviews but would like to skip the fishing reports, The Long Haul is for you! To learn more or to check out The Articulate Fly Fly Fishing Podcast (interviews and fishing reports), visit www.thearticulatefly.com.

  1. A Deep Dive into the Swingin' D: Techniques and Tips with Mike Schultz

    JAN 29 · BONUS

    A Deep Dive into the Swingin' D: Techniques and Tips with Mike Schultz

    Episode OverviewMike Schultz joins The Butcher Shop to deliver a comprehensive deep dive into the Swingin' D, one of predator fly fishing's most effective swim patterns for targeting smallmouth bass in Michigan rivers. This detailed conversation traces the pattern's evolution from its early 2000s origins through modern 2.0 variations, exploring the critical role of Larry Dahlberg's diver head design in creating the fly's signature side-to-side action. Mike shares the problem he was solving—creating a fly that would hang and move horizontally rather than just vertically like traditional leech and crayfish patterns. He walks through material selection spanning over 15 years of refinement, from the original beads-and-wire construction to today's shank-based articulated designs. The discussion covers tactical presentation details including optimal water temperatures (45-50°F+), rod and intermediate line selection, retrieve cadences and the importance of fishing at proper angles to achieve maximum action. Mike also provides updates on Schultz Outfitters' new e-commerce platform and upcoming events including the fourth annual Bobbin the Hood. Key TakeawaysHow to achieve unpredictable horizontal swim action by properly selecting and seating Rainy's diver heads, which create side-to-side darting movement that mimics wounded baitfish when fished at 45-degree angles on intermediate lines.Why the Swingin' D fills a critical gap in predator fly boxes by suspending in the strike zone and allowing precise depth control through strategic weighting with lead wraps or tungsten scud bodies balanced against the buoyant foam head.When to fish the Swingin' D most effectively—peak performance occurs in 45-50°F+ water during late March through May when smallmouth are aggressive and feeding in shallow 2-4 foot zones.How to construct durable 2.0 versions using The Chocklett Factory shanks, Senyo micro shank connections, Ahrex XO 774 rear hooks and Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hooks up front to prevent hook failures and maximize hookups.Why proper head selection and orientation matters—wider heads with substantial collars produce aggressive side-to-side action for cold water while narrower heads swim tighter for warmer conditions. Techniques & Gear CoveredMike emphasizes the Swingin' D's effectiveness stems from proper presentation on intermediate lines using 7-8 weight rods like the G. Loomis IMX Pro V2 or his signature NRX+ Swim Fly. The fly excels when fished at 45-degree angles from a moving boat, using erratic strip-and-pause retrieves that allow the Dahlberg diver head to create horizontal darting action. Keeling techniques using .020-.030 lead wire or Hareline tungsten scud bodies balance the buoyant foam head to achieve desired depth penetration. Mike details construction using articulated shanks (The Chocklett Factory, Senyo micro shanks), Ahrex XO 774 universal curve rear hooks and Gamakatsu 2/0 worm hooks up front, incorporating materials like Senyo's Predator Wrap, Whiting hen saddles, mallard flank and Blane Chocklett's rattle boxes. Leaders run 4-7 feet terminating in 15-16lb fluorocarbon tied with loop knots to the fly with no swivels. The pattern's versatility allows customization through flash colors, head widths and weight placement to match conditions ranging from high spring flows to lower summer levels. Locations &...

    1h 2m
  2. From Fly Tying to Foodie: Tim Flagler's Passion for Culinary Arts

    JAN 20 · BONUS

    From Fly Tying to Foodie: Tim Flagler's Passion for Culinary Arts

    Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Tim Flagler to explore his lesser-known culinary journey and preview his extensive 2026 hosted travel schedule. While most fly fishers recognize Tim from his renowned tying videos and work at Tightline Productions, this conversation reveals his parallel passion for cooking and food that parallels his fly tying expertise. The discussion traces Tim's evolution from childhood family meals at the Jersey Shore through his mother's and grandmother's influence to his current fascination with Asian cooking techniques, particularly Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine. Tim shares cooking philosophy centered on sourcing quality ingredients, constant tasting during preparation and proper knife skills while detailing his upcoming 2026 adventures including golden dorado fishing on Argentina's Ibera Marsh, trophy brown trout on the Limay River, northern pike and bull trout in British Columbia's Northern Rockies and steelhead on Lake Erie. The conversation also touches on Tim's ongoing fly tying innovations focused on creating mottled, natural-looking patterns that better imitate the mottled appearance of living aquatic insects. Key TakeawaysHow Tim's family food traditions at the Jersey Shore mirror the collaborative, process-driven approach he brings to fly tying and teachingWhy sourcing the best possible ingredients and tasting constantly throughout preparation are the two most critical elements of successful cookingHow to book Tim's 2026 hosted trips to Argentina for golden dorado and trophy brown trout, British Columbia for northern pike and bull trout or Lake Erie for winter steelheadHow Tim is incorporating mottled, multi-colored patterns in his fly designs to better imitate the natural mottled appearance of living aquatic insects that signals protein to feeding trout Techniques & Gear CoveredTim discusses his ongoing fly tying evolution focused on creating mottled appearances in patterns rather than solid single colors, based on close observation and video documentation of living aquatic macroinvertebrates. He explains how blotches of different colors signal life and protein to feeding fish, making these techniques potentially more effective than traditional solid-colored flies. The conversation touches on trout spey casting as one of Tim's seminar topics at upcoming Fly Fishing Shows. Tim also draws parallels between cooking and fly tying, emphasizing that both crafts require quality materials, proper tools (sharp knives in cooking, quality hackle and partridge in tying) and understanding fundamental techniques before attempting complex work. Locations & SpeciesTim's 2026 hosted travel schedule spans diverse fisheries across multiple continents targeting various species. In Argentina, he hosts trips to the Ibera Marsh for golden dorado, classic Patagonia rivers including the Chimehuin, Collon Cura and Limay for trout, and a six-day camping float on the Limay River targeting trophy brown trout. His North American destinations include Spruce Creek in Pennsylvania, the Kootenai River in northwest Montana for rainbows,...

    48 min
  3. Crafting The Nut Job: A Deep Dive with Brendan Ruch

    JAN 9 · BONUS

    Crafting The Nut Job: A Deep Dive with Brendan Ruch

    Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Butcher Shop fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash sits down with Brendan Ruch, the innovative tier behind the Nut Job, to explore every dimension of this game-changing swim fly pattern. From its accidental birth on Logjam Live to its current status as a go-to predator pattern for serious smallmouth and trout anglers, Brendan walks through the complete evolution of the fly. The conversation covers Central Pennsylvania waters where the pattern has proven deadly on big smallmouth and trout, particularly during spring high water conditions. Brendan details his craft fur-based approach, explaining how the synthetic material provides superior castability and a distinctive glide bait action compared to traditional hen saddle patterns. The discussion moves from vise to water, covering everything from material selection and proportioning to advanced retrieve techniques that maximize the fly's strip-and-stall bite trigger, making this essential listening for any angler pursuing large predatory fish on the fly. Key TakeawaysHow to tie a swim fly with predictable glide bait action using craft fur instead of expensive hen saddles, resulting in easier casting and better material availabilityWhy positioning rubber legs on top of the shank rather than on the sides creates critical parachute action that allows the fly to suspend and trigger strikes during the pauseWhen to adjust tungsten bead weights between 3/16" and 7/32" based on current speed to keep the fly in the strike zone without losing the neutral buoyancy that makes the pattern effectiveHow introducing slack through rod tip manipulation and strategic mends maximizes the fly's side-to-side glide within a confined 12-inch zone where fish are holdingWhy dark colors like olive-and-black with copper flash outperform bright patterns in off-color spring water, while yellow-orange combinations excel as visibility improves Techniques & Gear CoveredThe episode centers on Brendan's systematic approach to fishing articulated swim flies with emphasis on strip-and-stall retrieves that create glide bait action. He details using rod tip manipulation—upward jerks, downward strips, lateral movements combined with mends—to introduce slack that allows the Nut Job to kick side-to-side within a tight zone. Tying techniques focus on craft fur density and proportioning, including ripping tips rather than cutting to preserve bulk, using finesse chenille as a low-drag core and positioning 4-8 rubber legs to create suspending action. Brendan discusses hook configurations ranging from size 2 Trout Predator to 1/0 hooks paired with 15-25mm shanks connected via Maxima Chameleon 25lb, with tungsten bead options from 3/16" to 7/32" for varying current speeds. Line selection covers Type 3 sink tips for early season high water transitioning to intermediate lines as flows normalize, paired with fluoro leaders built from 30-35lb stepping down to 16-20lb tippet. Locations & SpeciesThe Nut Job has proven effective across East Coast waters, with Brendan's primary focus on Central Pennsylvania smallmouth fisheries where the pattern excels during high water conditions typical of March through May. He references success on the West Branch of the Delaware targeting trout with smaller versions of the pattern and discusses adaptations for musky fishing and striper applications along coastal waters. The fly's design addresses the challenges of fishing swollen spring rivers with off-color water, where heavy tungsten keeps...

    49 min
  4. The Fight for Our Future: Land Tawney on Grassroots Advocacy and Public Lands

    11/15/2025 · BONUS

    The Fight for Our Future: Land Tawney on Grassroots Advocacy and Public Lands

    In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash sits down with Land Tawney, outdoorsman, conservationist and co-founder of American Hunters and Anglers Action Network, to discuss the future of public lands conservation and effective grassroots advocacy strategies. With nearly 30 years of conservation leadership experience, including his transformative tenure at Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Land brings unparalleled expertise to this critical conversation about protecting our outdoor heritage. Building Effective Grassroots MovementsLand reveals the strategic framework that helped him build one of the most successful coalitions in outdoor conservation history. He shares three essential ingredients for grassroots success: making activism fun and accessible, empowering young leaders without traditional hierarchical barriers and standing for core conservation principles without political compromise. These tactics helped Backcountry Hunters and Anglers grow from a small organization to a 40,000-member powerhouse that united duck hunters, fly fishermen, gear enthusiasts and big game hunters across political divides. Critical Threats Facing Public Lands TodayLand outlines the unprecedented challenges confronting American public lands through a framework of "dismantling, defunding and divesting." He details specific threats including proposed mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters wilderness, oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the Ambler Road through Gates of the Arctic and ongoing efforts to sell off 3 million acres of public lands. These aren't isolated incidents—they represent a coordinated assault on the 640 million acres of public lands that belong to all Americans. American Hunters and Anglers Action NetworkLearn why Land launched this new 501(c)(4) organization that can engage directly in political advocacy and lobbying without the restrictions placed on traditional conservation nonprofits. Unlike membership-based organizations constrained by corporate partnerships and federal grants, this nimble "speedboat" organization can speak truth to power and create the grassroots upswell that enables other conservation groups to negotiate effectively in Washington. Land explains how digital organizing, authentic communication and strategic political engagement are essential tools for this critical moment in conservation history. From Montana Rivers to National LeadershipDrawing from formative experiences on the Big Hole River during salmon fly hatches with his father and mentorship from conservation legends like Jim Posewitz, Land shares how early fly fishing memories shaped his conservation ethic. He discusses the importance of balancing responsible resource development with wilderness protection, citing examples from Montana timber management to Wyoming oil and gas fields that demonstrate how thoughtful compromise can benefit both extractive industries and fish and wildlife populations. SponsorsThanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership. Related ContentS2, Ep 40: Chris Wood of Trout Unlimited S2, Ep 67: People of Bristol Bay - Tia Shoemaker of Grizzly Skins of Alaska S2, Ep 83: People of Bristol Bay - Drew Hamilton of Friends of McNeil River a...

    55 min
  5. Designing the Perfect Glide: Chase Smith and the Spiral Spook

    10/30/2025 · BONUS

    Designing the Perfect Glide: Chase Smith and the Spiral Spook

    Discover the Spiral Spook: Innovation in Topwater Fly FishingJoin Marvin Cash on The Butcher Shop fly fishing podcast as he interviews Chase Smith, inventor of the innovative Spiral Spook fly pattern. Chase bridges conventional and fly fishing by adapting the classic walk-the-dog action into a deadly topwater fly for bass and other predator species. Expert Design Insights from Chase SmithChase shares his journey from conventional fishing to creating one of fly fishing's most unique topwater patterns. Learn how he solved critical design challenges including weight distribution, foam construction and hook positioning to achieve authentic spook action on a fly rod. What You'll LearnDiscover the precise retrieve technique required for walking the fly—short, sharp strips just three inches long with rod tip on the water. Chase reveals why leader material matters, explaining why soft monofilament outperforms fluorocarbon and stiff materials. Get the complete leader formula: 2 feet of 50-pound to 2 feet of 35-40 pound, finishing with 2 feet of 20-pound soft mono. Advanced Tying TechniquesChase breaks down the complete construction process, from embedding weights in foam bodies to creating the signature spiral wrap. Learn about material selection including EVA foam, Gorilla Glue clear coating and wide-gap offset hooks that dramatically improved hookup ratios. Understand the precision required—weight placement within millimeters affects the entire action. Topwater Strategies for Predator SpeciesGet Chase's preferred setup: 55-millimeter bone-colored spooks on 6-7 weight rods with floating lines with aggressive tapers. Discover why smaller sizes catch more fish and how to adapt the pattern for varying conditions. Chase shares his 90% commitment to bone color and explains the strategic advantage of downsizing. Master the Walk-the-Dog RetrieveThe most common mistake anglers make is stripping too long. Chase emphasizes the critical importance of short, sharp strips—just a wrist flick of three inches. Learn how to initiate the walk with fast strips then vary tempo for different actions. Understand why loop knots are essential and how tippet diameter affects glide. Ready to add this deadly topwater pattern to your predator fly arsenal? Tune in for Chase's expert insights on creating and fishing one of fly fishing's most innovative surface patterns. SponsorsThanks to Schultz Outfitters, TroutRoutes and OnX Fish Midwest for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership. Related ContentS6, Ep 124 - Fly Tying with Chase Smith BONUS - Tying the Circus Peanut: Streamer Secrets and Fishing Strategies with Russ Maddin S6, Ep 101 - The Chocklett Factory: Fly Fishing Travels, Conservation and New Ventures S4, Ep 4 - Matt O'Neal of Savage...

    36 min
  6. From Concept to Catch: The Home Invader with Doug McKnight

    10/10/2025 · BONUS

    From Concept to Catch: The Home Invader with Doug McKnight

    The Home Invader: A 30-Year Fly Fishing LegacyIn this episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash dives deep into one of fly fishing's most versatile streamer patterns with its creator, Doug McKnight. Calling in from Blacksmith Lodge in Punta Herrero, Mexico, Doug shares the complete story behind the Home Invader—from its origins on Pennsylvania spring creeks to its evolution into a deadly pattern for everything from Yellowstone brown trout to backcountry tarpon. Doug McKnight's Streamer ExpertiseDoug McKnight brings three decades of streamer innovation to this fly fishing podcast, with patterns proven across multiple species and water types. Based in Livingston, Montana, Doug guides on the Yellowstone River and has adapted his signature patterns for both freshwater predators and saltwater gamefish. His design philosophy draws from legends Bob Clouser and Bob Popovics, emphasizing natural movement and practical fishability. What You'll Learn: Home Invader FundamentalsListeners gain insider knowledge on the Home Invader's creation story, including the accidental discovery that combined pheasant marabou, Australian possum fur and Clouser-style lead eyes into a deadly baitfish imitation. Doug explains material selection—from sourcing premium pheasant marabou to choosing between possum, arctic fox and coyote fur for different fly sizes. He breaks down common tying mistakes, particularly over-dressing with fur, and shares his preferred method for securing lead eyes with thread wraps and Zap-A-Gap. Featured Techniques: Fishing the Home InvaderThe core revelation: the Home Invader excels at slow presentations in fast water. Doug introduces his "do nothing" retrieve—casting with a 250-300 grain sink tip, getting tight to the fly and letting current provide all the action. This technique targets pressured brown trout holding in heavy Yellowstone River runs where traditional fast strips fail. Doug details his complete system: 7-8 weight rods, 24-foot sink tips, 15-pound Maxima butt sections and loop-knotted fluorocarbon tippets. Color selection follows water clarity—natural olives and tans in clear conditions, bright yellows and chartreuse in muddy water. Yellowstone River Streamer StrategiesDoug reveals how Montana's fishing pressure has changed his approach over 20 years. Fish now occupy extremely difficult lies in heavy current where precise boat positioning matters more than ever. The Home Invader's inherent movement allows effective coverage of these spots with minimal manipulation—critical when you get only one cast to pressured fish. Doug discusses adapting fly weight by pairing different grain sink tips with varied lead eye sizes, creating everything from dredging presentations to near-surface swims. Beyond Trout: Saltwater AdaptationsThe episode includes a bonus discussion of the Home Slice—Doug's weightless Home Invader variation for tarpon and permit. Using plastic eyes instead of lead, the Home Slice swims right-side-up and has proven deadly for backcountry species. Doug also shares his current permit experiment: fishing floating crab patterns over sargassum weed mats with explosive visual strikes. Listen Now for Proven Streamer TacticsWhether you're chasing Yellowstone browns, smallmouth bass or backcountry permit, this episode delivers actionable insights from a pattern designer who's refined his craft for 30 years. Doug's willingness to share detailed techniques—from leader formulas to retrieve cadences—makes this essential listening for serious streamer anglers. SponsorsThanks to Schultz Outfitters, TroutRoutes and a...

    41 min
  7. Tying Tradition and Innovation: Tom Herr's Atlantic Salmon Flies and Philanthropy

    09/26/2025 · BONUS

    Tying Tradition and Innovation: Tom Herr's Atlantic Salmon Flies and Philanthropy

    Join Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly podcast as he explores the intricate world of Atlantic salmon fly tying with Pennsylvania-based expert Tom Herr, who has spent over 35 years mastering both classic Victorian patterns and innovative freestyle artistic designs. Expert Fly Tying MasteryTom Herr shares his remarkable journey from a self-taught 10-year-old tying yarn flies with his mother's sewing thread to becoming a recognized authority in Atlantic salmon fly tying. Discover how he transitioned from classic featherwing patterns like the Green Highlander and Jock Scott to creating stunning freestyle artistic flies inspired by unexpected sources, including an iconic Marilyn Monroe photograph. What You'll LearnMaster essential fly tying techniques including Tom's signature pinch technique for precise material placement and thread control. Learn about specialized tools like the Regal Revolution and Italian Cotarrelli T-Rex vises, plus Tom's homemade burnishing tool for creating glass-smooth silk bodies. Understand the challenges of sourcing authentic Victorian materials and discover viable substitutes for rare feathers and traditional components. Classic and Artistic Salmon FliesExplore the difference between traditional married-wing patterns and modern hair-wing alternatives that provide an accessible entry point for aspiring salmon fly tiers. Tom reveals advanced techniques like creating curled married wings using household items and shares insights into synthetic materials from companies like Semperfli that replicate historical components. Pennsylvania Fly Fishing HeritageLearn about fly fishing development in one of America's traditional angling regions, where Tom developed his skills on local streams before expanding to destinations like New Brunswick's Miramichi River and Alaska's Bristol Bay. Discover how the presentation philosophy passed down from his father continues to influence his approach both on the water and at the tying bench. Giving Back Through Fly TyingDiscover how Tom uses his artistic salmon flies to support organizations like Project Healing Waters, Casting for Recovery and local charities. Learn about the therapeutic power of fly fishing and fly tying for veterans and cancer survivors, and understand how skilled anglers can make meaningful contributions to their communities through their expertise. Ready to explore the artistic side of Atlantic salmon fly tying? This episode provides both technical instruction and inspiration for tiers looking to expand their skills while making a positive impact. SponsorsThanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership. Related ContentS4, Ep 4 - Matt O'Neal of Savage Flies S6, Ep 91 - Predator Flies and Sparkle Boats: Steve Maldonado's Journey S6, Ep 124...

    48 min
  8. Building Bridges: Community and Content Creation in Fly Fishing with Spencer Durrant

    09/12/2025 · BONUS

    Building Bridges: Community and Content Creation in Fly Fishing with Spencer Durrant

    Building Authentic Fly Fishing Communities Through ContentIn this episode of The Articulate Fly podcast, host Marvin Cash reconnects with Spencer Durrant after nearly four years to explore the evolving world of fly fishing community building and digital marketing. Guest Expertise: Multi-Platform Content CreatorSpencer Durrant serves as Director of Content at Ventures Fly Co. and News and Gear Editor at Flylords, while hosting the weekly Untangled: Fly Fishing for Everyone podcast. After transitioning from high school teaching to full-time fly fishing industry work, Spencer brings unique insights into authentic audience engagement and trust-building strategies. What You'll Learn: Business and Community Building StrategiesDiscover how podcasting creates deeper trust relationships than traditional digital marketing, why consistency beats sporadic content creation and how to compete with larger companies through authentic community engagement. Spencer shares practical insights on building customer loyalty through educational content rather than competing solely on price. Featured Techniques: Content Strategy and Audience DevelopmentLearn Spencer's approach to scripted podcast production, the power of recurring themes and personality in content creation and how to leverage user-generated questions for engaging episodes. The discussion covers effective gear reviewing strategies that maintain honesty while building industry relationships. Digital Marketing Insights: Beyond Traditional MetricsExplore why podcast ROI differs from traditional digital advertising, the challenges of measuring community-building success and strategies for competing with established brands through superior customer experience and educational resources. AI and Content Creation: Navigating the FutureSpencer and Marvin discuss the responsible use of AI in content creation, distinguishing between helpful process automation and content that betrays audience trust, plus predictions for how artificial intelligence will impact authentic community building in outdoor industries. Check Out Spencer's First Appearance on The Articulate FlySponsorsThanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership. Related ContentS4, Ep 4 - Matt O'Neal of Savage Flies S7, Ep 1 - Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt Reilly BONUS - Tying the Circus Peanut: Streamer Secrets and Fishing Strategies with Russ Maddin S4, Ep 150 - Soft Hackles with Allen McGee All Things Social MediaFollow Spencer on a...

    57 min
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About

The Long Haul Fly Fishing Podcast with The Articulate Fly regularly releases interviews with national and regional personalities covering fly fishing, fly tying and fly fishing travel. If you love The Articulate Fly Fly Fishing Podcast interviews but would like to skip the fishing reports, The Long Haul is for you! To learn more or to check out The Articulate Fly Fly Fishing Podcast (interviews and fishing reports), visit www.thearticulatefly.com.

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