Untangled: Fly Fishing For Everyone | Ventures Fly Co.

You can catch just about anything on a fly rod — pike, bass, carp, bluegill, escaped aquarium fish in Florida, and even gar! Everyone talks about how fun these fish are to catch, but for most anglers, trips for permit, tarpon, salmon, dorado, and the like, are out of reach. The travel and cost makes them tough for an average angler to do more than dream about. But there's one fish that checks a lot of the same boxes those exotic fish do. This fish grows to ENORMOUS sizes. It fights like an angry toddler pulling you back to the candy aisle at the grocery store. And this fish isn't always easy to catch. And here's the best part — for a lot of us, they're just a short drive and hike away, swimming in thousands of lakes across the country. Today on Untangled, I'll tell you what this fish is, why I've fallen in love with chasing them, and how you can catch one all on your own.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

TROUT ROUTES - Get A FREE Month Of Access - CHECK IT OUT

Everyone says that if you're gonna catch big fish, you gotta fish big flies. And big flies usually means tossing streamers! So you grab a woolly bugger, or maybe a meat whistle, or if you're feeling like living on the edge, a slumpbuster. You head off to the river, start tossing these flies in spots that look promising, and BAM — something freight trains your fly like it owes it money. This is when things fall apart. You're so excited to hook something on a streamer, and your immediate instinct is to fall back on how you were taught to set the hook — hold the line tight and raise the rod tip! The only problem is, that's exactly the WRONG WAY to set the hook when fishing with streamers. So today on Untangled, we'll go over the correct technique for setting the hook, and some other tips for getting the most out of fishing with streamers.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Sometimes, the biggest fish in the river are caught on the tiniest of flies. And we're not talking size 18 or 20 flies, either - think stuff as small as 26, 28, and even 30!

Today on Untangled, Spencer is joined by his longtime friend and dry fly expert Ryan McCullough, for another installment of the Everyday Angler series, which features conversations with anglers across the fly fishing world who don't always get a voice in the industry. Ryan is one of Spencer's fly fishing mentors, and the person Spencer credits with getting him addicted to fishing dry flies.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

VFC Field Guide - Get a free copy here!

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

My daughter is almost a year and a half old. And don't worry — she's not some sort of prodigy who's already casting a fly rod. She's as stubborn as her dad, but thankfully as adorable as her mom, and just as sweet. I know she's way too young to really remember some time on the water, and she's certainly nowhere near being let loose with a fly rod. But if there's one thing I've learned since becoming a dad, it's how much fun it is to share things you love with your kid. So earlier this summer, I loaded my daughter into the truck and we set off for my old stomping grounds — the same creek where I spent all my growing-up years. My daughter might not remember this day, but I know I'll never forget it.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

After 200 episodes of Untangled, we decided it was time -- for a LIVE STUDIO AUDIENCE! We opened the doors to 20 fans of VFC and spent the night telling stories, answering questions, and sharing those Live Reel Life moments that keep us coming back to the water. Everyone in attendance had the chance to ask their fly fishing questions to Alex and Spencer live, getting real-time feedback for the problems they're currently facing.

Some of those include:

This is an episode you can't afford to miss!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

VFC Field Guide - GET A FREE ONE HERE

GEAR - Hats - CHECK THEM OUT

GEAR - T-Shirts - CHECK THEM OUT

GEAR - Fly Rods - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Nothing makes a great day go immediately down the toilet the way that wind can. If the wind's at your back, it's not a HUGE problem — you probably get a bit more distance on your cast! But if the wind's blowing right in your face, you suddenly feel like the most incompetent fly caster to ever pick up a rod. Or at least, I usually do. And that's because I so often forget some of the key fundamentals for making good fly casts in the wind. So today on Untangled, we'll go through those important skills to keep in mind when the wind starts blowing. That way, you're not sitting on the bank, frustrated that you can't cast, when your buddy ties into a near 30-inch trout. Not that I'm speaking from experience…

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

What's scarier - telling your mother-in-law that her pot roast is actually dry, or picking up a new fly rod with NO help at all? Because let's be honest - it's not like fly shops or websites have a ton of clear information about what all these different rods are for. And why do some of them cost $1,000 or more?

Today on Untangled, we're going to simplify the world of fly rods and give you the information you need to make the best choice for your own fishing situation. You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

FLY ROD FINDER - Find Your Perfect Rod Now! - CHECK IT OUT

TROUTROUTES - Get A FREE Month of Pro Access - CHECK IT OUT

FLY RODS - Browse the VFC Collection of Fly Rods - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

My first trip chasing bull trout didn't exaclty go as planned. Instead of holding a giant trout in a crystal-clear stream, I found myself lying in a bed in a stranger's house, feeling like I'd gone to the wrong Taco Bell and had one too many beefy five-layer burritos.

So how'd I end up there? What dark forces conspired to keep me from catching a bucket-list fish? Well, it all starts with my buddy Blair.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

You show up to the river for a day of fishing, you're stuffed FULL of optimism and happiness, you get all rigged up — and then your mood just CRASHES. There aren't any fish rising. No bugs hatching. No trout sunning themselves in the shallows. Just a river that feels as lifeless as those lovely political ads we're forced to watch during football season. What's the play here? How do you start from what feels like nothing, and end up catching fish, when the river is holding all its cards close to the vest? It boils down to knowing where the fish are probably hanging out, what they're probably eating, and how to get a good presentation. And today on Untangled, that's exactly what you're gonna learn.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Watch the Beginner Masterclass - CHECK IT OUT

RESOURCE - Get The First Fish Roadmap - CHECK IT OUT

Guided trips are fantastic! They're a great opportunity to learn from people who live and breathe fly fishing. But there's always one awkward part of the day, especially if you've never been on one before - the tip. How much do you tip? Are they expecting it? Is there ever an instance where you'd WITHOLD a tip? Today on Untangled, you'll learn all about tipping culture in fly fishing, and whether it's something you should consider on your next guided trip.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

If you've ever heard other anglers talk about how great it feels to catch fish on flies they tied themselves, you've probably thought they were overselling it. They make the experience out to be something on par with your first kiss, or getting your driver's license.

So if catching fish on a fly you tied is that good, then it stands to reason that catching fish on a fly you INVENTED is even better — right up there with getting married, or watching a tax write off actually SAVE you money.

This is all well and good, but there's one question we need to ask — how exactly do you start coming up with your own fly patterns? What makes it YOURS and not a copy of someone else's?

It's honestly pretty simple — it all comes down to tying your flies to fill a specific need, rather than just sitting at the vise and hoping inspiration strikes.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

GEAR - New Fly Rods From VFC - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - How We Fly Fish With Nymphs - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Fly Rods 101 - CHECK IT OUT

We almost lost one of the most iconic trout species in the world. From the 1970s to 2005, roughly 3.5 million of these fish were eaten by a predator illegally introduced into their ecosystem. It was only through hard work - and a bit of luck - that the fish managed to survive at all. But how did this happen? Why does it matter if some fish go extinct? And where did this all take place? Well, that's what we'll explain in today's episode of Untangled.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

There's one mayfly that, when it hatches, brings EVERY fish up to the surface - including the big ones. These bugs, once they start, come off like clockwork. The fish dutifully follow.

So, what's the catch? Because if there's one true thing about fly fishing, it's that nothing is THIS simple.

Well, these mayflies are tiny. Microscopic. And the fish get EXTREMELY picky about which ones they're eating. Some times, they want the male mayflies. Other times, they're only eating the females. Throw the wrong one, and your chances of catching fish are as good as Spencer's at quitting Diet Coke.

This week on Untangled, you'll learn everything you need to know to take advantage of this tiny mayfly.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get TroutRoutes PRO Free For One Month - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

The best thing you could do right now is to turn off this podcast, get your gear together, and go fishing.

If you can't just drop everything and head to the river right now - maybe you're at work, or any good fishing is a long drive away - then I suppose you could keep listening to today's show. But the message at the end will be the same as it is now: get up and go fishing.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

The second installment in our Everyday Angler series features Hyrum Weaver, a longtime friend of Spencer's, and one of the fishiest guys he knows. Hyrum is a truly great fisherman who claims he hasn't been skunked in the 21st century. He's also one of the best people you could ever hope to learn from - whether it's figuring out lakes, learning to tie better flies, or simply the key things to look at on rivers to find more fish, Hyrum is a wealth of information, and he's sure to help you level up your game as an angler.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

As the weather finally starts to cool off, that means small mayflies are back on the menu! But they're not the only thing to think about as you hit the water in September. Terrestrial fishing can be excellent this month as well, and will continue to be great until the first hard freeze fo the year. Today on Untangled, you'll get a refresher course on all things fall mayflies, as well as some tips and tricks for troubleshooting those moments when the fish refuse your flies.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

VFC 3-Packs - Get The Fall Flies - CHECK THEM OUT

Brookies are the favorite of tons of anglers. They're gorgeous, and the big ones can be extremely frustrating AND rewarding to catch. But they're also one of the biggest threats to the long-term survival of native fish like cutthroat trout. Brookies are more aggressive than cutties, so in places where the two fish live side-by-side, brookies outcompete cutthroat for food. Eventually, the cutthroat just can't persist on the landscape, and they disappear. So, to help cutthroat and other native fish like gila and apache trout, sometimes fisheries managers ASK for you to kill brook trout. Does killing a few brookies REALLY help cutthroat? And is this a sound practice, or do fish biologists in the West just have it out for brookies? Today on Untangled, we'll dive into all of this and explain what really goes into conserving and protecting our native fish.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Why are so many of the flies we tie, use, and sell, all brightly colored, when most of the real-life bugs trout eat are drab and dull? Why do our fly boxes look like they'd be more at home at a middle-school craft fair, or a tea party, than on the river? Well, it all boils down to how trout perceive color. Understanding this key detail of trout biology can help you better understand how and why trout react so well to certain fly patterns.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - How Trout See Color - CHECK IT OUT

ALEX STULCE RETURNS! And as he joins Spencer on today's episode, the two talk about the hopper fishing strategies that too often get ignored. Things like adding drag on purpose to make the hopper look like it's alive, to fishing them in shallow, nervous water. These are the little things that WILL make a difference in your fishing this summer, but that most folks don't ever discuss.

You'll also hear about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

DONATE - Amber Kelly GoFundMe - VIEW HERE

Get TroutRoutes PRO Free For One Month - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

The days when you catch something unexpected — your new personal best, for instance — seem to come out of nowhere, like letters from the IRS. And not unlike mail from the tax man, I think every angler has at least SOME level of fear that they won't be prepared to meet those memorable fish when they decide to show up.

Of course, not every unforgettable fish has to be huge — it can be a particularly gorgeous brookie, or a wild rainbow trout that's shaped like a football, or a brown all colored up for pumpkin spice season.

But those big ones? That show up out of nowhere, when you're fishing the farm pond, that tiny creek near your house, or the stretch of river you've always skipped, because it just didn't look fishy?

Those are the fish that make your palms sweaty, get the butterflies swarming in your stomach, and put you right back in that dark, loud gym on the night of your first school dance. That feeling never goes away, no matter how long you've been fishing; or at least, it hasn't for me.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Fly fishing apps are for those lazy anglers who just want someone to tell them where to go, what flies to use, and how to fish. They're for people who prefer automatic transmissions, boneless chicken wings, and Downton Abbey.

Right?

Well, not exactly. That was my attitude for a LONG time, until this year. I started using one app, and it honestly made me change my tune. These apps can be really helpful, for anglers of all skill levels.

Today on Untangled, you'll learn why I changed my mind about fly fishing apps, the ones we recommend here at VFC, and how to get the most out of these tools.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get TroutRoutes PRO Free For One Month - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

There are two main types of fly lines - weight-forward and doube-taper. But what do those words mean? And when would you want to use one versus the other? Today on Untangled, we'll tackle everything to know about the differences between these lines, as well as getting into when and why you might want to use them. We'll also talk about the importance of matching your fly line to your rod, and what makes a fly line "good" or "bad."

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

FLIES - Get the VFC 3-Packs - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

This is the first episode of our new Everday Angler series, where we sit down with anglers who are at every stage of the learning curve. Yes, guides, outfitters, and industry experts have a lot to add to the conversation, but how often is their advice actualyl tailored to the situation you're in right now?

And since one of the best ways to learn is by chatting with other anglers in your exact situation, that's what we decided to do. Our first guest is Riley Bayles, an angler from Utah who's been fly fishing for abot 2 years. Alex and I had the chance to fish with Riley this summer, and we were impressed by his approach to the sport and his willingness to learn. Riley has some fantastic insight as someone who's in the thick of figuring it out, and his advice will absolutley help you become a better angler.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

August can feel like one of the tougher months for fly fishing, and in many ways, it is. BUT - with the right approach, you can still have a great time on the water this month. Depending on where you live, your best option might be fishing early in the morning, or chasing non-trout species. If you have easy access to the high country nearby, this is a great time to go out and explore all the less-visited places where the fishing is still fast and furious.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

FLIES - Get the VFC 3-Packs - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

When the air temps warm up, we're not the only ones having a hard time of it. Trout don't react well when the water gets too warm, and knowing both HOW and WHY they act differently in warm water, can be an easy way to ensure you're taking care of the fish we love so much. On today's episode on Untangled, you'll learn why it's important to monitor water temps, when you should stop fishing, and other quick tips you can use to ensure the fish stay happy and healthy for years to come.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

ARTICLE - Science-Backed Info on Trout And Warm Water - CHECK IT OUT

Golden trout are among the prettiest, rarest, and most sought-after trout in the West. They live in hard-to-reach places, and the ones that grow to enormous sizes seem like they're harder to find than clear pictures of Bigfoot. But putting in the work and effort to look for these fish - even if you strike out - usually results in memories you'll never forget.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Caddisflies are one of the most abundant aquatic insects on the PLANET! But they're largely misunderstood by anglers - inclulding myself. In fact, I just had an experience on the water that made me realize I've been fishing these flies completely wrong for 20 years!

Don't make the same mistakes I did. Listen to this week's episode and learn all about how caddisflies should be fished, and how this can help you put more trout in the net.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Waders are great and all -- but by the time summer rolls around, they get HOT! They're not all that comfortable to wear, either. So, if you wanna ditch the waders, what's the best way to go?

We prefer using a fully dedicated wet wading setup. You get all the benefits of the stability of wading boots, without the bulk and added heat of waders. Today on Untangled, we'll dish on all the things we love about wet wading, the gear we recommend, and WHY we've made these choices.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Wet Wading Gear Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Starting out in fly fishing is overwhelming. You're told you've got to master all sorts of techniques and tactics, and the second you open Instagram, or read any online content, you're bombarded with new things to try! It feels like, if you're not at least dipping your toe in everything, you're quickly falling behind as an angler.

Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, that mindset is damaging for new anglers. So in today's episode of Untangled, you're going to learn why this isn't the best way to approach things, and some tips for actually leveling up that don't require new gear, or trips to exotic locations.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

The largest cutthroat trout ever officially caught was a 41-pounder back in 1925. Rumors persisted of fish in excess of 60 pounds, but like any good fish, those ones got away before they could be weighed...

These giant cutthroat were once thought to be lost forever. By the 1940s, they were gone from the landscape, and our chance to fish for giant, prehistoric fish was basically gone.

But that's where this story really starts, and gets all sorts of interesting. In this episode of Untangled's Fly Fishing Stories, you'll learn all about the world's largest cutthroat trout -- how they evolved, how they vanished, and how they made one of the world's most shocking comebacks.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Summer is the time for throwing big foam bugs and large droppers, right?

Well, yes - but there are a couple of dry flies that get chronically overlooked by anglers - myself included. So today on Untangled, you're going to learn what these flies are, why you should add them to your box, and tips for getting the most out of them when you tie one on.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

ARTICLE - Fishing Ants - CHECK IT OUT

Browse 3-Packs and Tying Kits - CHECK THEM OUT

Lake fishing can be intimidating. Where do you cast? What are you looking for that tells you fish will be in one spot versus another? And do you use the same flies you use on rivers and streams?

Well, fishing lakes is A LOT simpler than it appears, and this is actually the best time of year to give it a shot. So today on Untangled, you'll learn four quick tips for getting the most out of your time on stillwater this summer!

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

It's hard to not fall in love with small streams. They're gorgeous, the fish are generally fairly willing to eat, and they're a GREAT place to escape the crowds for a bit. As summer drags on, though, small streams don't always continue to be this fairytale place to fish. The water levels drop, fish get spooky, and you feel like you're back at square one, looking for a solution to this problem. It boils down to understanding where fish move during the summer, what they're looking to eat, and the best times to be out on the water. Today on Untangled, we'll dive into all of that and more, so you can have success on small streams this summer.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

It's hot, windy, dry, and there's a few people out on the water. The biggest hatches of the year are winding down. Mosquitoes have made their unfortunate return. Despite all this, fishing in July can be just as rewarding as a nice hot plate of fresh wings. You just need to be prepared with the knowledge of what bugs are out, and what the fish are doing, so you can take advantage of the fact that trout still gotta eat! Today on Untangled, we'll look at what to expect in July, and give you the tools you need to go out and have an epic day on the water!

Recommended Flies:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Wet Wading Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Browse 3-Packs and Tying Kits - CHECK THEM OUT

VIDEO - Completing The Trout Super Grand Slam - CHECK IT OUT

What makes a day on the water great? Is it really all about how many fish you caught? I mean, I know we're going fishing to catch fish, but is that ALL a day on the water is about? I think a lot of anglers would say no, they appreciate the solitude, the quiet, the beauty, the challenge. But at the end of the day, if you walk back to your truck and you got skunked, you feel like you failed, right? Or at the very least, that you got beat.

I'm not here to say that catching fish doesn't matter, and I'm certainly not telling you what to do. I just want to ask one question:

Is the number of fish you catch the best way to measure your success on the water? Or is there more to it?

That's what we'll discuss on today's episode of Untangled.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Nymphs are supposed to be heavy and sink straight to the bottom, where the fish spend most of their time - right? Yes, that's what MOST nymphs are designed to do. But some are tied without any weight at all, and they're great for using when the fish are a bit picky, feeding during a heavy hatch, or you just want to switch up how you're approaching the water.

Today on Untangled, you'll learn all about the merits of weightless nymphs, and why they're a style of fly you should consider having in your box.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Finding good wading gear that works for your stlye of fishing, AND that's within your budget, feels almost impossible sometimes. It's tough to know what exactly you need from your waders and boots.

Well, Spencer has spent the past decade reviewing gear for fly fishing magazines, and he's been fly fishing for over 20 years. Today on Untangled, he's going to share the particular features he looks for in waders and boots, and how you can use that knowledge to find the PERFECT set of wading gear for you.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Wader Buying Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Wading Boot Buying Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Skwala Gear We Recommend - BOOTS & WADERS

You never expect a trip to nosedive, especially when you've planned it for the better part of a year, you're traveling across a few states to get there, and you're going with two of your best friends. As the old saying goes, though, no plan survives first contact with the enemy. In our case, we just didn't understand that we even had an enemy, or how far south things could actually go.

This is the story of the trip we all have at some point, but few of us ever remember fondly.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Do you have a fly box that's full of go-to patterns for your local creek? And maybe another one that's stuffed with all the right flies for the tailwater you visit a few times a year?

And let's be honest for a sec — when's the last time you used EVERY fly in those boxes? How many of those patterns are there mostly for emotional support? Or do they just weigh down your pack and make it hard to find the pattern you're looking for?

I think the secret to a good fly box isn't variety of patterns. Instead, it's about hitting every life cycle stage of the major insects — midges, mayflies, caddis, and stoneflies. A few imitations of each are all I often reach for in about 90% of trout fishing situations.

So today on Untangled, I'll share more about this approach to picking flies and stocking your box, so you can hit the water without hauling an entire fly shop along with you.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Wet Wading Guide - CHECK IT OUT

PODCAST - The 10 Flies You Need For Trout - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - The Guide to Wet Wading - CHECK IT OUT

Have you ever heard someone say something like "Oh, the flows on the river are good today, that means the fishing will be great!" And you're a bit too embarrassed to ask why flows matter? Maybe you've even heard the phrase "CFS" thrown around too?

Well, high and low water flows have different impacts on how the fishing is. Too high, and it's tough, or impossible, to fish. Too low, and the water's too warm for trout. Learning how to read flow charts, though, gives you the power to hit the water at just the right time.

So today on Untangled, I'll explain exactly what river flows and CFS means, how it impacts fishing, and how you can use it to pick the best place to spend your day on the water.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

The biggest lie in fly fishing is that there's an exactly-perfect, foolproof, never-fail method to fish every piece of water, and that if you study or learn enough, you'll never get skunked.

Here's the truth -- great anglers still get skunked, or at the very least, have TOUGH days on the water. But one skill they've mastered? The ability to sift through the advice that's out there, and learn how to apply it to their unique situations.

On today's episode of Untangled, that's exactly what you'll learn. You'll get advice on how to implement fly fishing advice so you actually see results on the water.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Ultimate Fly Collection from VFC - CHECK IT OUT

RESOURCE - The Study on Mink Predation - CHECK IT OUT

June usually means high water, big bugs, happy fish, and the first days that are warm enough to think about wet wading. June's also the first month when some of the high country starts opening up, which means your favorite small streams and ponds are just a hike away.

The most challenging thing about June fishing, though, is navigating the high water and finding the fish. Once you know what to look for, though, you can have some fantastic days out there.

So, today on Untangled, we'll take a look at all the key info you need to know to have great days on the water this June.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

FLIES - Get the 3-Packs From VFC - CHECK THEM OUT

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

FLIES TO USE IN JUNE

How many flies do you have in your box right now? A few dozen? A few hundred? More than a thousand? Yeah, it's great to have a lot of flies on hand - but that many choices makes it easy to overthink your fly selection. That can lead to you switching flies too often, when the real reason you're not catching fish has to do with your presentation. So, today on Untangled, you'll learn a bit more about why it's a good idea to pare down your fly selection, and the 10 fly patterns you could catch 90% of trout with.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

What's keeping you from having consistent, repeatable success on the water? From fishing with the same sort of confidence you see guides approach it with, or anglers who've been fishing for decades. Is it really just time and honing a bunch of technical skills, like casting, or fly selection?

That stuff helps. But the best anglers I know — the ones I say I wanna be like when I grow up — aren't necessarily the best casters, and NONE of them can tell you the latin name of every bug on the water.

What they all have in common is simple — they're incredible at watching the water, and using what they see to inform how they tackle any given situation. More than anything, this is the skill that separates good from great anglers.

Today on Untangled, I'll walk you through why this is so important, and how mastering the art of watching and waiting will make you a noticeably more successful angler.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Trout aren't the only fish to catch on a fly rod. From bass and pike to panfish and tarpon, there's almost no end to the critters you can catch with this style of fly fishing. Doing something so different from what you're used to, though, will definitely throw you for a loop - just like it did to Alex and Spencer. They just went on a trip to Florida for some bass fishing, and got some time in on the salt as well. What they learned made them realize just how much there is about fly fishing they don't know. And perhaps most surprising were all the lessons they observed that can help you be a better angler, no matter what you fish for.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

You hear stories about some fisheries that are supposed to be excellent. Since you don't want to miss out on great fishing, and you figure that many people who talk up a spot can't be wrong about it, you plan a day to go see it.

Then you make the trip there — whether it's a long drive, a hike, or both — and you can't quite figure out what all the fuss was for. Either you get skunked, you don't see many fish, or the fish you DO see feel impossible to catch.

Well, maybe that was just a bad day. Every fishery has 'em. So the next time you go, you go with a friend who's fished it before, and he pulls out a pair of 24-inch fish, while you're left picking your flies out of trees and wondering why you gave up a Saturday of good college football for this.

Spots like this tend to stick under your skin, to stay with you until you either figure them out, or the memory fades enough that you can quietly shuffle it into the bin of character-building experiences you don't want to go through again.

There's one lake like this that I've fished for the better part of two decades, and against all my better judgement, I'm itching to go back this summer. It feels like unfinished business, but if I'm being honest, it's probably more about wounded pride.

Still — there's a lot to learn from places like this. I bet you'll pick up a few of the lessons far quicker than I did.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Shop the VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

What information do you ACTUALLY need to know if you're getting started in fly fishing? What's going to help you improve, and what's just going to add to the noise?

Well, there are a lot of opinions on this topic. This week on Untangled, Spencer Durrant shares the 5 things he wishes he knew when he started fly fishing, A LONG time ago.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

PODCAST - Wet Flies Explained - WATCH IT NOW

When the wind picks up and you suddenly can't land your flies right where you want them anymore, what do you do? If you're anything like me, you probably make a few classic mistakes that are actively harming your ability to fly cast in the wind. Today on Untangled, you'll learn about the 3 big mistakes to avoid, and the things you should do instead, to battle the wind when it inevitably shows up.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Shop the VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

I used to HATE fishing with nymphs. What bugged me the most was dealing with split shot - taking it off, or putting it on my rig. You've gotta get those tiny slits in the shot lined up with your tippet, then crimp it down, and NOT drop it all in the river. It's not fun to cast with, either.

The biggest problem is how much split shot actually effects your ability to feel what your flies are doing, and how they're drifting. By ditching split shot, you gain a TON of feedback and control over your rig. That means more fish in the net. Today on Untangled, you'll learn how to get your flies down deep without split shot, and why it's actively harming your nymphing game.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Pocket Nymphing Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Get your dry fly rod ready, because May means some of the best hatches you'll see all year! In this month's fly fishing report, you'll leran all about the bugs that will hatch in May, the flies we recommend for imitating them, and a couple of pro tips for making the most of fishing before runoff hits.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Shop the VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

Recommended Fly Patterns

The caddis hatch sometimes get overlooked in all our excitement over mayflies and stoneflies, especially early in the season.

But caddis hatches stay consistent throughout the summer, and they only become more important for trout as the season stretches on. Plus, the first big caddis hatch of the year can be an absolute blast if you hit it right.

This week on Untangled, we'll take a detailed look at the caddis hatch: when these bugs start getting active, their lifecycle and behavior, and the flies we recommend for a successful day out on the water.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Shop The VFC 3-Packs - CHECK THEM OUT

If you really want to grow as an angler, sometimes that means you'll need to make some hard choices. You'll need to push yourself to try stuff you may not want to, or you'll have to find a way to power through the days on the water that, frankly, make you want to give up. On the other side of those hard times is the great fishing we always hear stories about. And in today's episode of Fly Fishing Stories, Spencer Durrant shares the tale of the day when he did just that - pushed through the bad weather and questionable conditions, and came out on the other side with an unforgettable day.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Ice-off is a magical time: it's when some of the biggest trout in any body of water come within easy casting distance of shore. That means it's one of the best times of year for you to tie into what could be your new personal best trout on a fly rod! So, to take advantage of this great fishing, this week's episode of Untangled is a deep-dive into all things ice-off fly fishing: why it's so productive, tactics to find and hook fish, as well as advice on gear and flies.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Rigs & Knots Pocket Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Alright, let's be honest for a sec — how often do you feel like you're catching fish more out of luck than skill?

I remember feeling that way all the time when I started fly fishing. Honestly, that feeling didn't stop until I learned this one valuable lesson: if you pay attention to WHERE you catch fish, and not just what fly they ate, finding and catching fish really starts to click. It feels like something you're doing more on purpose, and less by good luck.

Today on Untangled, I'll explain why paying attention to WHERE you catch fish is so important, and how it can help you have more predictable, repeatable success on the water.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE VFC Field Guide - CHECK IT OUT

How much does the pattern you pick matter for your success on the water? Is there an EXACT PERFECT FLY that'll work amazing in one situation, and if you don't pick it, you won't have as much success as you could've?

Probably. But here's the thing - fly selection doesn't really matter that much. HOW you present that fly is what makes the most difference. To put this theory to the test, we spent an entire day fishing for four different trout species (browns, rainbows, cutthroat, and brookies) but we could only use 2 flies the whole day. No changing sizes, colors, or anything like that. We were locked in to the patterns we picked that morning.

What we learned was just how much presentation matters to your success on the water. Today, Alex Stulce and Spencer Durrantn share the lessons they learned from this challenge, and how it can help you succeed on the water as well.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - Watch the Grand Slam How We Fish - CHECK IT OUT

Have you ever fished in a hatch that feels like the stories we hear, usually from the old-timers, about the days when fish ate from a never-ending buffet of bugs? Where, if you're in the right place at the right time, you can catch fish until your arms fall off?

I've had that opportunity once - and this is the story of the greatest mayfly hatch I've ever seen.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

There's about a million different ways to rig up a nymph rig. From indicators and drop-shot styles, to tight-lining it, or throwing a dry-dropper, how do you know which method is the best?

Well, that depends on your situation, BUT - indicator nymphing is BY FAR the most versatile way to put flies in front of fish, and make them look real. So, today on Untangled, we're looking at the pros and cons of this style of fishing, and how you can better utilize it to help you put more fish in the net.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Nymphing Pocket Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Say you're shopping for a new fly rod. You've probably heard them all described in different ways, but one common phrase you've seen is "this rod's action is fast" or "this has a sweet, soft action."

What the heck does action mean? And how does it impact the way a rod performs on the water?

Well, it's pretty simple! So in this Tip of the Week, we're breaking down what fly rod action is, how it impacts a rod's performance on the water, and how you can use this information to pick the right rod for any fly fishing job you might run into.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

What's the real reason fish aren't eating your fly? Is it beause you didn't pick the PERFECT fly? There's a better one in your box, so you oughta spend 10-15 minutes looking for it, right?

No. Not very often will that be the case. Instead, you're most likely not catching fish becasue your fly doesn't look real. Remember, your job is to put flies in front of fish, and make them look real! So today on Untangled, we're taking a deep dive into why presentation matters so much, and some simple tips to improve just how much your fake fly looks like the real thing.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Finding Fish eBook - CHECK IT OUT

The best blue-winged olive hatches of the year are right around the corner! And by the end of the month, you might see some Mother's Day caddis out and about as well!

What this means is that you need to be prepared for the great spring fly fishing that April offers. With Untangled's April Fly Fishing Report, you'll be ready with all the knowledge about the hatches to expect, fly patterns we recommend, and tips and tricks for tackling the tricky weather and conditions this time of year.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Shop the VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

VIDEO - Watch How We Fish in Spring - CHECK IT OUT

RECOMMENDED FLIES FOR APRIL

In this special episode of Untangled, Spencer and Alex are joined by Ryan Kelly, longtime guide on Utah's Green River, and one of the best fly fishing photographers currently working. You might know Ryan from Instagram (@GreenRiverFlyFisher) and you've probably seen his shots of fish rising to eat dry flies. Today, Ryan shares all that he's learned from a decade of watching fish eat through a camera's lens (as well as his two decades of guiding experience) to help you understand what trout are ACTUALLY doing during a hatch.

Why do they ignore flies? Why do they get leader shy? Why do so many anglers have trouble catching picky fish eating dry flies? Those, and many more questions, are answered in this show.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

When do you ACTUALLY need tippet smaller than 4x? And if you need to size your tippet down, what's the best way to do it? In this Tip of the Week, you'll learn all about why we use certain sizes of tippet, why it's important to play fish quickly, AND you'll learn all about the different situations and tactics for sizing down your leader to get picky fish to FINALLY eat your fly.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

There's more to small dry flies than just the bugs ON the surface. There are also other types of insects fish eat that sit just in the surface film, or even slightly below it. These bugs are called emergers, and they're still fished just like you would with a dry fly. But there's a few things to know about how, when, and where to use these flies that'll help you really get the most out of them. So, today on Untangled, you're getting a crash course in everything you need to know about emergers!

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Browse the VFC 3-Packs and stock up on Emergers! - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

When a trip goes pear-shaped right from the start, what do you do? Do you pack up early, head home, and get back to work? Or is it worth pushing through high water, iced-over lakes, muddy roads, and enormous distances just for the hope of finding water that might be fishable?

In this latest Fly Fishing Story, Spencer Durrant takes you on a journey across the Pacific Northwest as he and his friend Ryan McCullough try to find fishable water during spring runoff. What they ended up finding just might surprise you.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

It sure would be awesome if fish always ate a big ol' grasshopper! But they spend A TON of time eating small flies. In particular, they'll eat tiny dry flies a lot during spring and fall. So, how do you take advantage of the big fish that you see rising to eat what looks like tiny specks out there on the water?

Well, a lot of anglers mistakenly write off using tiny flies, because they seem like they're too much work. You need angel-hair thin tippet to tie them on, you need a magnifying glass to find them in your box, and you have next to no hope of seeing them while they float, right? They've gotta be more trouble than they're worth?

Well, not really. Once you understand how to fish small dry flies, you open up a new world of fish you can catch — including some giants.

So, in this first part of a two-part episode, we're taking a deep dive into fishing small dry flies. You'll learn how to rig them up, how to pick the right one, and other tricks of the trade to make these microscopic hooks work in your favor.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Browse the VFC 3-Packs and stock up on Cripples! - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Have you ever been in an amazing hatch, with bugs going off EVERYWHERE and fish eating with reckless abandon, only to leave the river empty-handed? The fish didn't just not eat your flies, they flat-out IGNORED you. What's up with that? Aren't these hatches supposed to be the stuff of legend that fly fishing is all about?

Well, yes, they are. But if the hatch is TOO good (too many flies on the water at once) it's tough for your fake one to stand out. If the fish can't see it, how are they supposed to eat it?

That's where this little cheat code comes in: it's called unmatching the hatch, and it can be the difference between putting fish in the net, and going home skunked.

Today on Untangled, you'll learn all about unmatching the hatch, including when and how to use this tactic as dry fly season gets underway.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Picking the right fly is one of those things in fly fishing that's made out to be A LOT harder than it actually is. You don't need a degree in entomology, you don't need to have every aquatic insect memorized, and you certainly don't need to be some sort of expert to pick the best fly for a given fishing situation. Instead, you just need to rely on two simple tips that'll help you move forward in your fly selection process, even while you continue to learn more about what fish eat.

In this week's show, you'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Right Fly Ebook Here - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - The FREE Fly Selection Master Class - CHECK IT OUT

What bugs are hatching this month? What flies should you have in your box? And what can you expect from the weather? You'll get the complete rundown of what to expect from March fly fishing in this monthly fly fishing report from Untangled. With detailed descriptions of upcoming hatches, fly patterns you should tie or buy, and a few pro tips on ways to catch more fish this month, this is a can't-miss episode of Untangled.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Shop the VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

Winter is almost over (if it ever started where you live) which means that spring dry fly fishing is right around the corner! Some of the best fishing you'll have all year long ain't that far off. That means RIGHT NOW is a great time to prep for these hatches, which is the goal of today's episode. You're going to learn all about the timing of spring hatches (including Hendricksons, Quill Gordons, Blue-Winged Olives, and Skwalas), as well as the principles behind rigging your flies, so you can successfully fish any hatch you run into this spring.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

GEAR - VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

Is there a right and wrong way to organize your fly boxes? If you put your flies in a specific order, will it give you a tactical advantage on the water?

Not really. BUT - it can help you find the right fly you need, when you need it. The trick is to not overthink your fly box organization, and to keep it simple. In this episode of Untangled, you'll learn how Spencer organizes his boxes, along with the princples he uses, so you can apply them to your own situation.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Browse the VFC Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

We spend A TON of time talking about the right flies to use during winter, and for good reason. Flies matter a lot. But you know what makes an even bigger difference? HOW you present that fly! Presentation matters almost more than fly selection sometimes!

So, today on Untangled, we're going to tell you about a recent trip we took, the rigs we used, and HOW those rigs made a difference for us on the water.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

How much of an influence has your home water had on your life as an angler? Has it shaped how you approach the water? The kind of fly fishing you love the most? What else has it taught you that you still remember, all these years later?

In the second episode of the Fly Fishing Stories series here at Untangled, Spencer Durrant weaves multiple stories of growing up on his home river, and how it shaped the angler he is today.

How often do you set up your nymph rig, ready to hit the water, only to realize that your flies are moving WAY faster than you wanted. You didn't think the water would be that fast, or that deep!

The fix is simple, right? Just put on some split shot, increase the distance between your bobber and your flies, and you'll be in business.

Well, that all depends on how much split shot you use, how fast the water's moving, and how heavy your flies are. Too much split shot, and you'll be losing your flies - and all your patience - in every snag.

So, today on Untangled, you'll learn the foundational principles, and our favorite rig, for nymphign faster water WITHOUT losing flies!

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Bounce Rig Diagram - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Pocket Nymphing Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

How much time do you spend worrying about your fly choice when you're setting up your nymph rig? If you're like most anglers, it's probably A LOT! But how much time and energy do you put into making sure your flies are drifitng at the right depth, before making a fly change? Probably not as much as you should.

Today on Untangled, you'll learn about why depth matters more than fly choice when throwing nymphs, and how this tiny change can elevate your fly fishing game to new heights.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Pocket Nymphing Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Rigs & Knots Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Fly rods are really important -- they're what we use to put flies in front of fish, and they help us make those flies look real, after all. But how much do you REALLY know about fly rods? Can you explain what the core features are that separate good ones from not-so-great ones? Today on Untangled, Spencer Durrant walks you through the key features he's found most anglers either don't know about, or misunderstand, and why they influence how your fly rod performs.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Watch the Fly Selection Master Class - CHECK IT OUT

How to Roll Cast and Water Load - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

It's February! That means things are changing a bit on the fly fishing front, and we've got you covered. With this month's Untangled Fly Fishing Report, you'll learn about what bugs are most active in February, the best flies to match those hatches, and some tips and tricks for the different conditions you'll run into this time of year.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Browse VFC's February Flies - CHECK THEM OUT

Have you ever wondered just how effective fly fishing from a drift boat is? Are float trips worth the money? Do you ACTUALLY catch more fish from a boat, or do you only catch them in front of wading anglers who rarely, if ever, get to float the river?

All those questions - and more - will be answered on this episode of Untangled. Alex Stulce joins Spencer Durrant to talk about the pros and cons of wade fishing vs fishing from a boat, and a bunch of stories are shared just for good measure. You'll end the show with a firm idea of what style of fishing best matches your goals out on the water.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - How We Fish: Nymphing - CHECK IT OUT

Do you need to tie picture-perfect flies in order to catch fish? Or should you focus on tying them to be a bit "buggy" (which is fly-fisher for "messy)?

Today on Untangled, Spencer Durrant walks you through why most fly tiers are too hard on themselves - especially beginners - and the few things fish actually care about when deciding to eat your fly.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

Is fly tying worth the cost and the hassle? Sure, you can tie up specific, custom flies, but wouldn't it just be cheaper to buy flies instead? Well, maybe, but we shouldn't really worry about economics here, because if fly fishing were based on good financial decisions, none of us would be doing it.

Instead, you shoudl think about the on-the-water benefits you'll get from tying your own flies. You WILL become a better angler by tying. The question utlimately comes down to how much you want to improve. This week on Untangled, you'll learn how and why fly tying can improve your skills.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Browse the VFC Tying Packs - CHECK THEM OUT

VIDEO - Beginner Fly Tying Masterclass - WATCH IT NOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

There's one thing that brings anglers of every stripe together - a good fish story. This is the first in a new series of podcasts from Untangled that'll tell stories every angler, from the saltwater fanatic to the panfish lover, will relate with and appreciate.

This week's story is about a little cutthroat creek, tucked high in the mountains, that suddenly vanished. Along the way, you'll learn about the area's storied history with fish stocking, hear about a cutthroat eating a mouse fly, and why it's worth it to explore and look for new-to-you fisheries.

Midges are a go-to fly in the winter, but how do you know which of the 8 billion midge patterns to pick? There's so many to choose from, and it feels like they're always dropping new ones, too!

Well, I took the time to simplify my own midge selection down to just a handful of patterns. Doing that helped me fish what I rig up with more confidently, but it also made choosing a fly A LOT eaiser. I spend less time worrying about my fly choice, and more time fishing. So, this week on Untangled, you'll learn what those 7 midges patterns are, and why they're the ones I so highly recommend.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Browse Our Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - How to Cast A Fly Rod - WATCH IT NOW

VIDEO - How to Make A Roll Cast - WATCH IT NOW

If you want to make 2026 the year you take some giant leaps in your fly fishing abilities, then you should seriously consider keeping a fly fishing journal. Writing down what happens on the water, what flies you used, the weather, the water conditions -- it will all help you understand the interplay between various factors on the water, and it'll help you learn from both your successes and your failures. Today on Untangled, Spencer will walk you through the key details to write down, and how you can use this simple tool to help improve your experience on the water.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join our FREE Fly Fishing Group - CHECK IT OUT

There's more to trout fishing than rainbows, browns, cutthroats, and brookies. There's all sorts of interesting trout out there, just waiting for you! But when you get the chance to fish for these lesser-known trout, you'll probably get hung up on one thing: what flies do you need? Are there top-secret patterns that only work for these fish, but locals won't tell you about unless you buy 'em the right 12-pack? This week on Untangled, you'll learn about some of the rare trout species on the planet, and the flies we use to catch them.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

This is the first-ever bonus episode of Untangled! Starting in 2026, we're dropping two episodes of your favorite fly fishing podcast every week! And this first episode is a new format we'd love some feedback on. At the start of each month, we're going to do a monthly fly fishing report. You'll learn what bugs are active, how to fish that month, tips and tricks for dealing with water conditions, and the fly patterns we recommend.

Not every episode of our extra show will follow this format. Some weeks will be interviews, others will be deep-dives into one topic, and others will be story-driven. But we'd like the first episode each month to be full of actionable information that'll help y'all out on the water. So if you like this format, and want to hear more of it, please let us know!

Finally -- this bonus episode of Untangled is ONLY available in audio format. You won't find this content on YouTube, Instagram, or any other social media.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Browse our 3-Pack Fly Collections - CHECK THEM OUT

Every angler loves a good fishing story, even if we tend to stretch the truth sometimes. But those stories are good for more than just reliving old times. You can learn A TON from your best catches, including exactly where and how you can improve. So, this week on Untangled, Spencer shares some stories (from VFC team and Skool members) about the best fish of 2025, and the lessons learned along the way.

You'll also hear about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Have you ever had one of those days on the water where nothing seems to go right? You can't tie a decent knot, you lose all your flies, and you end up not catching fish? When it gets rough like that, what do you blame? Nature? Yourself?

Your answer to that quesiton likely exposes the kind of angler you are, and can help you learn how to become an even better one. This week on Untangled, Spencer shares stories and tips about the times his ego has gotten in the way of catching fish, and how you can avoid that same problem.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

There are a whole lot of reasons a fish won't eat your fly. Maybe you picked the wrong one, or you wore the wrong socks today. Or you forgot your semi-annual offering of used zebra midges for the river gods.

In all seriousness, there's often a much simpler reason fish aren't eating your fly: you've spooked them. This week on Untangled, you'll learn about how you end up spooking fish, even if you don't mean to, and a few tips for avoiding that.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

EBOOK - How to Find Fish in Rivers - CHECK IT OUT

There's no NEED to stock your fly box full of hundreds of patterns, all in dozens of different sizes. Sometimes, though, a slightly different fly from what everyone else is using is just the trick to put more -- or larger -- fish in the net. This week on Untangled, you'll learn about 7 underrated fly patterns that we turn to when we need to change things up.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - Winter Fly Fishing Master Class - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Fly 3-Packs - CHECK IT OUT

80% of a fish's diet is underwater, which means nymphing is a crazy effective way to put fish in the net. So, this week on Untangled, Spencer and Alex share everything they learned while filming their Nymphing Master Class. From insight on why fly pattern doesn't matter, to tips on picking the right strike indicator, you'll leave this episode ready to put all these tips into practice out on the water.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - Nymphing Master Class - CHECK IT OUT

What gear do you ACTUALLY need for fly fishing? And what stuff is just a waste of money? Sure, that fancy reel looks nice, and you'd probably look just like Indiana Jones in that hat. But will that stuff help you put more fish in the net? Or will it just drain your wallet?

This week on Untangled, you'll learn about the gear that Spencer thinks isn't worth the cash, AND you'll get a detailed list of the essential items for your time out on the water.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

The VFC Starter Packs - CHECK THEM OUT

Fish, especially trout, really don't care about your fly pattern. Alright, A FEW fish do. The pickiest ones, and every single trout in the Henry's Fork. But most fish care WAY more about how the fly is presented, than whether you picked the exact perfect fly.

This week on Untangled, you'll learn why presentation matters FAR MORE than pattern, and a few tips for perfecting how the fish see your fly.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - How to Cast Indicators, Split Shot, and Double Nymph Rigs - CHECK IT OUT

The world of fly fishing with streamers is full of weird terminology, interesting tactics, and new techniques. That makes picking it up, especially as a beginner fly angler, a bit challenging. Here's the truth, though -- streamer fishing is A LOT simpler than it appears. If you can catch fish on dry flies and nymphs, you've already got most of the skills you need!

This week on Untangled, you'll get a crash course in fly fishing with streamers. From casting to setting the hook, you'll end the show ready to hit the water with confidence!

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

You've picked a great fly, found some wonderful water, and made tons of good drifts through fishy-looking water. Everything is coming together -- except for the whole catching fish thing. So, what do you do on days like this, when NOTHING you do makes the fish notice your flies? When the fishing sucks, what's the play? Well, this week on Untangled, you'll learn how Spencer and Alex approach these tough days, and tips you can use the next time the river throws you a curveball.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Join the Fly Tying Mega-Kit Waitlist - JOIN NOW

Dropping the money on a guided fly fishing trip is a serious commitment - but with the right planning, you can get the most out of your time (and money) spent on the water! Getting the msot out of a guided fishing trip really comes down to communication -- both with the guide, and yourself. This week on Untangled, Spencer (a former guide and outfitter) walks you through how to have an incredible experience with your guides!

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Rigs & Knots Pocket Guide - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

If you've spent most of your time fishing on small streams, making the jump to fishing bigger rivers can be intimidating. Where do you cast? Where are the fish holding? And do they still eat the same flies they do in small streams?

This week on Untangled, we'll answer all those questions, and more, as you learn the 5 key tips for fishing big rivers.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Finding Fish eBook - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

After a long day of fishing, when the trout refused EVERY fly you threw at them, how often have you gone home and looked up some information about the best flies to use during a certain time of year? And when you've done that, have you ever thought, "Well, this is all interesting, but how much does it apply to MY local river?"

Well, the short answer is, probably a lot. The longer answer is that as you learn to identify bug trends and aquatic insects, you'll dramatically level up your fly fishing skills.

So, this week on Untangled, we're breaking down fly selection into its basic parts, so you can learn how to pick the right fly the next time you're on the water.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

Get the FREE Year-Round Hatch Chart - CHECK IT OUT

How do you become a "great" fly angler? And what makes an angler "great" anyways? In this week's episode of Untangled, Spencer and Alex chat about the one trait all the best anglers they know have in common, and how you can set realistic goals to help you achieve your own level of greatness in fly fishing.

You'll also learn about:

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Get the FREE Finding Fish eBook - CHECK IT OUT

Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENT - SUBMIT HERE

VIDEO - Find New Places to Fly Fish - WATCH IT NOW

In this episode, host Spencer Durrant is joined by Alex Stulce to talk about everything related to nymphing! You'll learn:

Submit a question for the podcast here.

Download the FREE Pocket Nymphing Guide here.

Download the FREE Pick the Right Fly eBook here.

Our diagram of the Bounce Rig is here.

Our diagram of a Dry Dropper Rig is here.

Our video on How to Roll Cast is here.

In this episode, fly fishing author and guide Spencer Durrant teaches you everything you need to know about fly fishing with emergers. You'll also hear about:

Submit a question for the show here.

You can read Spencer's story about finding big fish in small water here.

FREE eBook on Picking the Right Fly can be downloaded here.