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. Frosty Mornings and Musky Pursuits: January Fishing Insights with Ellis Ward

    1D AGO

    Frosty Mornings and Musky Pursuits: January Fishing Insights with Ellis Ward

    Episode OverviewEast Tennessee guide Ellis Ward delivers his first fishing report of 2026 on The Articulate Fly podcast, covering winter tactics for both post-spawn trout and low-water musky fishing. Ward breaks down strategic adaptations required for fishing extremely low and clear water conditions that have dominated the region through early January, affecting both tailwater trout fisheries and musky rivers like the French Broad. The episode emphasizes post-spawn trout streamer fishing opportunities in late January and February, when trophy fish are feeding aggressively to recover after the fall spawn. Ward also discusses current musky conditions under challenging low and clear water, requiring downsized presentations and pinpoint casting to specific holding pockets, with the transition to pre-spawn musky anticipated in March. Additionally, Ward covers his intensive bucktail processing operation, having accumulated over a thousand deer tails for custom musky flies following the end of deer season. With water levels dictated by minimal tailwater releases and fish becoming increasingly spooky in gin-clear conditions, Ward explains timing windows for visiting anglers looking to capitalize on prime post-spawn trout streamer fishing and upcoming pre-spawn musky opportunities. Key TakeawaysHow to capitalize on post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing in late January through February when trophy fish are feeding heavily to recover after the fall spawnWhy low and clear water musky fishing requires downsizing presentations and focusing on precision casts to specific structure rather than covering water broadlyWhen to book trips around optimal moon phases and weather windows during the transitional period between post-spawn trout streamer fishing and March pre-spawn musky activityHow to execute sidearm casts to tight cover and confined holding areas when backcast limitations and spooky fish demand tactical adjustments in extreme low water Techniques & Gear CoveredWard emphasizes post-spawn brown trout streamer tactics as prime winter opportunities, with late January and February offering some of the highest ceilings for trophy fish on streamers as they feed aggressively after the fall spawn. For musky fishing under current low and clear conditions, Ward discusses downsized fly presentations that facilitate better casting opportunities to tight cover with limited backcasts. The conversation details targeted approaches to four-by-four pockets, requiring anglers to identify specific holding structure rather than covering expansive zones. Ward discusses his extensive bucktail processing operation, managing approximately a thousand tails stored in two chest freezers and working through the dyeing and preparation process during winter. Equipment discussion includes the practical considerations of fishing in extreme cold with nitrile gloves and hand warmers while maintaining the dexterity needed for presentations in sub-30-degree weather, particularly important for anglers targeting post-spawn trout during early morning sessions. Locations & SpeciesThe French Broad River serves as the primary musky water, with Ward noting how extremely low and clear conditions require tactical adjustments throughout the winter period. East Tennessee's tailwater systems are emphasized for post-spawn brown trout streamer fishing, with Ward specifically noting that late January and February represent prime months when the ceiling is quite high for trophy trout that have completed their fall spawn and are feeding heavily. The interconnected nature of water management affects both

    13 min
  2. Chilly Waters and Crafty Flies: A New Year Fishing Report with George Costa

    2D AGO

    Chilly Waters and Crafty Flies: A New Year Fishing Report with George Costa

    Episode OverviewIn this first Central Pennsylvania Fishing Report of 2026 on The Articulate Fly podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with George Costa for a winter conditions update across the region's premier trout waters. George breaks down the technical nymphing and streamer tactics that are producing fish in low, clear flows as cold temperatures settle into central Pennsylvania. With snow in the forecast and a significant cold snap ahead, George covers current conditions on the Juniata River, Spring Creek, Penns Creek and Fishing Creek, explaining why the J is fishing at seasonal flows with good color while Spring, Penns and Fishing Creek remain challenging with low, clear water. The conversation reveals where trout are concentrating in deeper pools, how to adjust presentations for winter conditions and what anglers should expect over the coming weeks. George also previews upcoming winter fly tying classes at TCO shops and the Edison Fly Fishing Show, making this episode essential listening for Pennsylvania anglers planning their winter outings or looking to sharpen their skills indoors. Key TakeawaysHow to adjust nymphing presentations for low, clear winter water by keeping bugs down deep and moving them slowly through concentrated holding areas.Why the Juniata River is currently the best bet for Pennsylvania winter trout fishing with seasonal flows and good color compared to other regional waters.When to use streamers in winter conditions by fishing them low and slow rather than with aggressive retrieves.How technical winter fishing requires proper layering and thermal gear to stay comfortable during long sessions in deeper pools where fish are holding. Techniques & Gear CoveredThe primary techniques discussed are technical winter nymphing and low-slow streamer fishing tailored to challenging low-clear water conditions. George emphasizes getting nymphs down deep into the pools where trout concentrate during cold weather, maintaining slow drifts that match the fish's lethargic winter metabolism. Streamers are producing when fished deep and slow rather than stripped aggressively, with George noting his recent success moving decent fish on this approach. The conversation touches on the importance of proper winter layering—thermals, multiple sock layers and cold-weather gear—to fish effectively during extended nymphing sessions in frigid conditions. Locations & SpeciesThis report covers central Pennsylvania's top trout fisheries including the Juniata River (locally called "the J"), Spring Creek, Penns Creek and Fishing Creek. The Juniata is fishing at seasonal flows with good color, making it the standout winter destination, while Spring Creek and Fishing Creek remain low and clear, requiring more technical approaches. Winter trout are holding in deeper pools across all waters as temperatures drop and snow moves into the region. The low-clear conditions make these Pennsylvania limestone and freestone streams more challenging but rewarding for anglers who dial in proper depth and presentation. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat are current water conditions on central Pennsylvania trout streams in early January 2026?The Juniata River has seasonal flows and good color, making it the best current option. Spring Creek and Fishing Creek remain low and clear, requiring more technical presentations. A cold snap with snow is forecast, which will push...

    4 min
  3. Fishing Adventures and Fly Innovations: A New Year with Blane Chocklett

    3D AGO

    Fishing Adventures and Fly Innovations: A New Year with Blane Chocklett

    Episode OverviewBlane Chocklett joins The Articulate Fly for the first Chocklett Factory of 2026, covering his latest innovations in predator fly design and upcoming event schedule. In this fly fishing podcast episode, Blane discusses his recent Fly Fisherman magazine cover featuring the Jerk Changer, a game-changing articulated streamer designed for trophy predator species including smallmouth bass and musky. The conversation explores Blane's 2025 season highlights, including record-breaking fish on the TFO Moment rod and his emotional Cuba trip honoring the late Flip Pallot. Blane unveils his 2026 product line including new popper and slider heads, finishing heads for streamers, articulated terrestrial patterns and a collaboration with AHREX on Game Changer hooks. He also previews his appearances at Bobbin the Hood in late January and Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest in March, emphasizing the community-focused nature of both events. This episode provides serious predator anglers with insights into cutting-edge fly design, new rigging options and opportunities to learn directly from one of fly fishing's most innovative tiers and designers. Key TakeawaysHow the Jerk Changer's unique articulation and triggers make it effective for virtually every predatory fish species from smallmouth to musky.Why Blane's new finishing heads (shovel heads, realistic heads) give streamers different water-pushing actions while remaining lighter and more castable.When to use popper and slider head variations for top water presentations targeting smallmouth, saltwater species and other predators.How Blane's new realistic body parts and support discs allow tiers to match exact baitfish profiles like shad, bunker, glass minnows and chubs.Why events like Bobbin the Hood and Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest offer unique opportunities for intimate learning and celebration of fly fishing legends while supporting conservation through ASGA. Techniques & Gear CoveredThis episode focuses heavily on predator fly design innovations rather than on-water techniques. Blane discusses the Jerk Changer articulated streamer pattern, which differs from the standard Game Changer platform by incorporating additional triggers and articulation points that attract large predatory fish. He mentions fishing the Jerk Changer with the TFO Moment rod and catching trophy smallmouth bass and record-size fish in 2025. The conversation covers upcoming product releases including popper and slider heads for top water fishing, various finishing heads (shovel heads and realistic heads) that create different streamer actions, articulated stonefly and terrestrial patterns using new bug heads and a collaboration with a href="https://ahrexhooks.com/products/xo/xo784-bc-game-changer/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    16 min
  4. 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
  5. January Fishing Forecast: Weather Patterns and Musky Tips with Matt Reilly

    JAN 8

    January Fishing Forecast: Weather Patterns and Musky Tips with Matt Reilly

    Episode OverviewThe Articulate Fly kicks off 2026 with the first Southwest Virginia Fishing Report featuring guide Matt Reilly, who breaks down winter musky strategies for navigating January's unpredictable conditions in Southwest Virginia's river systems. Matt explains how musky concentrate in specific locations during cold water periods (upper 30s to low 40s) and why cloudy, warm days create ideal winter fishing opportunities. The conversation covers tactical approaches for fishing through temperature swings, managing variable weather fronts and the concentrated fish behavior that makes winter musky fishing productive when anglers fish intentionally. Matt also discusses his 2026 booking calendar, upcoming smallmouth pre-spawn season and his appearance at the Buckeye United Fly Fishers show in Cincinnati. This report delivers practical insight for serious predator anglers targeting musky during the challenging but rewarding winter season, with additional perspective on spring striper opportunities and the year ahead without periodical cicada hatches. Key TakeawaysHow to locate winter musky by understanding that colder water temperatures concentrate fish into specific, predictable locations rather than spreading them throughout a system.Why cloudy, warm days with water temperatures in the upper 30s to low 40s create optimal winter musky conditions despite variable January weather patterns.When to adjust your approach for cold water musky fishing by being more intentional about location selection rather than avoiding winter conditions altogether. Techniques & Gear CoveredMatt Reilly emphasizes the importance of intentional, location-focused fishing during winter musky conditions. The discussion centers on tactical approaches for cold water periods when fish are concentrated rather than dispersed, requiring anglers to be strategic about where they invest their time and energy. Matt explains how water temperature fluctuations between the low 30s and low 40s influence fish behavior and how managing frontal systems and variable weather conditions factors into successful winter musky pursuits. The report also touches on Matt's smallmouth fly patterns and his approach to pre-spawn smallmouth tactics as the calendar moves toward late winter and early spring transitions. Locations & SpeciesThis Southwest Virginia Fishing Report focuses on Matt Reilly's home waters in Southwest Virginia, primarily targeting musky during the winter season. The discussion covers river systems experiencing variable January conditions, with water temperatures ranging from the low 30s (with ice) to the low 40s during warming trends. Matt also discusses upcoming opportunities for pre-spawn smallmouth bass in late winter and early spring and striper fishing scheduled for April and May. The region's fisheries demonstrate the characteristic boom-and-bust weather patterns of mid-Atlantic winters, where 70-degree days can give way to frozen conditions within a week, making day-by-day assessment critical for successful winter fishing. FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do cold water temperatures affect winter musky location and behavior?Matt explains that cold water and ice don't necessarily shut down musky fishing but rather concentrate fish into very specific locations. The colder conditions are, the more packed fish tend to be in predictable spots. When water temperatures start warming up during comfortable weather windows, these concentrated fish can become quite active while remaining in those same predictable locations, making winter fishing productive for anglers who understand where to focus their efforts. What are the...

    10 min
  6. Show Season Strategies: Mac Brown on Learning vs. Entertainment in Fly Fishing

    JAN 7

    Show Season Strategies: Mac Brown on Learning vs. Entertainment in Fly Fishing

    Episode OverviewIn this Casting Angles episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash and casting instructor Mac Brown discuss strategies for maximizing educational value at fly fishing shows nationwide. With the 2026 show season approaching, they share tactical advice on how to approach casting and tying demonstrations, turning entertainment into genuine skill development. Mac Brown, who teaches at major shows from Marlborough to Lancaster, explains why focusing on the caster's hand movements—rather than the mesmerizing fly line—unlocks the secrets to better casting technique. The conversation covers practical methods for recording demonstrations with smartphones, the importance of high frame rate video for slow-motion analysis and how to build practice habits that translate classroom learning into on-water performance. They also introduce a new foundational casting system designed to eliminate 85-90% of common casting problems, along with Marvin's process-driven approach to fishing that emphasizes building systematic habits from gear preparation through reading the water. Key TakeawaysHow to record casting demonstrations effectively by zooming in on the instructor's hand and arm movements rather than watching the fly line, capturing both the visual technique and audio explanation for later review.Why developing a show attendance plan before arriving—including which classes and demonstrations to prioritize—transforms passive entertainment into active skill development for serious anglers.When to use high frame rate smartphone settings and inexpensive tripods to create slow-motion practice footage that reveals what you're actually doing versus what you think you're doing.How building systematic habits and foundational casting technique creates space to solve on-water problems and provides the baseline needed to learn advanced variations and specialty casts.Why tension control connects fly tying and casting technique, making both skills more accessible when you understand the underlying principles that the best practitioners master. Techniques & Gear CoveredThe episode centers on video analysis and deliberate practice methods for casting improvement. Mac and Marvin emphasize recording demonstrations with smartphones, specifically filming the caster's hand movements, rate of acceleration and body mechanics rather than the fly line's path. They recommend using inexpensive tripods with phone mounts and adjusting iPhone settings to shoot at high frame rates, enabling clear slow-motion playback for self-analysis. The discussion introduces a foundational casting system that Mac and Marvin have developed, designed to address the majority of casting faults before progressing to advanced techniques. They also touch on the parallel between tension control in fly tying and casting. Locations & SpeciesWhile this Casting Angles episode focuses on educational methodology rather than destination fishing, Mac Brown references his upcoming teaching schedule at major fly fishing shows across the country, including Marlborough, Massachusetts; Edison, New Jersey; Denver, Colorado; Bellevue, Washington; Pleasanton, California; and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The conversation touches on Mac's home waters in the Southeast, where warm January weather in the 60s has allowed for T-shirt fishing conditions. The episode's insights apply universally to any water or target species, as the casting fundamentals and learning strategies discussed translate across all fly fishing scenarios from trout...

    15 min
  7. Last Minute Gifts and Winter Tips: George Costa's Holiday Fishing Insights

    12/21/2025

    Last Minute Gifts and Winter Tips: George Costa's Holiday Fishing Insights

    The Articulate Fly wraps up 2025 with the final Central PA Fishing Report featuring George Costa from TCO Fly Shop in State College. In this fly fishing podcast episode, George breaks down post-spawn winter trout behavior and current conditions across Central Pennsylvania's streams as anglers navigate the holiday season. With streams running low and clear following recent rain and snowmelt, George explains why deep nymphing is producing the best results right now, targeting winter lies where trout are holding tight to the bottom in deeper pools. Streamer fishing remains hit or miss given the low, clear conditions, though the recent water bump may get fish moving, while dry fly action is minimal with scattered midge activity. George delivers practical winter fly fishing tactics for working challenging conditions and shares insights on trout positioning during the post-spawn period when fish are conserving energy. The episode also covers TCO Fly Shop's holiday hours (open 9-3 on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, closed both holidays), last-minute gift ideas for fly fishers and upcoming 2026 show appearances at Edison, New Jersey, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Whether you're planning to escape the in-laws for some winter fishing or stocking up on gear and classes at TCO, George's seasonal report provides the local intelligence Central PA anglers need to make the most of late-season opportunities. Related Content S7, Ep 36 - Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop S6, Ep 138 - Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa S6, Ep 129 - TCO Fly Shop's George Costa Discusses Prime Fall Fishing Conditions S5, Ep 145 - Central Pennsylvania Fishing Report with TCO Fly Shop All Things Social Media Follow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. Support the Show Shop on Amazon Become a Patreon Patron Subscribe to the Podcast Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice. Advertise on the Podcast Is our community a good fit for your...

    4 min
  8. Changing the Narrative: Robbie Kroger’s Mission with The Origins Foundation

    12/18/2025

    Changing the Narrative: Robbie Kroger’s Mission with The Origins Foundation

    In this episode of The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash welcomes Robbie Kroger, founder and Executive Director of The Origins Foundation, for an in-depth conversation about hunting advocacy, wildlife conservation and the sustainable use model that's shaping the future of global conservation efforts. Guest Expertise: From Wetland Scientist to Conservation AdvocateRobbie Kroger brings an unconventional background to hunting advocacy. With a PhD in wetland ecology and aquatic biogeochemistry from the University of Mississippi, six years as a professor in the Wildlife Fisheries Department at Mississippi State and over 100 peer-reviewed publications, Robbie served as chief scientist for the BP oil spill restoration framework. His science-based, measured approach to communication sets The Origins Foundation apart in the hunting advocacy space. What You'll Learn: Reframing the Conservation ConversationDiscover how The Origins Foundation communicates with non-hunters (not anti-hunters) using honesty, respect and scientific reasoning rather than emotional arguments. Robbie explains why sustainable use of wildlife isn't a silver bullet but rather one of only seven critical tools in the limited conservation toolbox. Learn why value-based wildlife management - whether protecting elephant habitat in Africa or managing wolf populations in the American West - creates incentives for local communities to coexist with wildlife rather than eliminate it. Featured Conservation Projects: Global Impact Through ActionRobbie details the world's largest cheetah relocation project, having moved 17 cheetahs into 500,000 acres of Mozambique habitat buffered by 10 million acres of protected land, with three more relocations planned for 2026. Hear about upcoming documentaries including "Sauvons Bambi" (debuting June 2026 in Paris) about European hunters using thermal drones to save roe deer fawns from farm equipment and "In My Footsteps" profiling the first scholarship recipient from a South African hunting charity who became a successful architect. The Foundation is also building schools and clinics in South Africa and Zambia while working on rhino and lion conservation initiatives. Public Lands and Management Philosophy InsightsDrawing on his experience growing up under South Africa's private wildlife ownership model, Robbie contrasts it with America's revolutionary public trust doctrine where wildlife belongs to everyone. He discusses the chronic underfunding of agencies like USFS, USFWS and BLM, arguing that public-private partnerships, biodiversity credits and creative funding models could dramatically improve stewardship. The conversation explores complex topics like fair chase ethics, social media responsibility for hunters and anglers, wolf management controversies and why both sides being upset with you often means you've found the right position. Join the ConversationThe Origins Foundation actively engages with supporters across all social media platforms, typically with Robbie responding personally to messages. Whether attending major hunting shows from Wild Sheep Foundation to Safari Club International or meeting supporters for roadside coffee in Australia, the Foundation maintains an accessible, ego-free approach focused on lifting up the entire conservation community rather than self-promotion. SponsorsThanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro...

    1h 1m
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    The Articulate Fly
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    1K
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Articulate Fly LLC
  • Show Website
    The Articulate Fly

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