The Fly Culture Podcast

Send us Fan Mail Episode 348 - Visiting the Chatsworth Country Show I head up to Derbyshire to first, catch a few fish and then on to the Chatsworth Country Show where I meet up with many people you'll know, get some fishing tips and advice, hear about some new pieces of tackle and books too. I get the chance to speak with competition angler Susan Sissons who tells me about her return to the England Ladies team, how she got on and what it meant to her. It is a beautiful story. I really enjoy ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 347 - Back on my home water We've had some cooler weather and rain too. I've been watching water heights and make the decision to head back to my home water for the first time in what feels like a long time. I have my dog. Montana, with me and no other plans other than to enjoy this moment. I didn't plan to record anything but am pleased I did as I get the chance to share the time with you in what turns out to be more than just a few hours fishing. As ever, I just spe...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 346 - Richard Ticehurst - Casting, Fishing and Innovating I catch up with Richard to learn about his fishing career that started by learning to tie flies before heading to the river to catch fish with them with his father in Scotland. I also hear about him packing a fly rod and heading to the coast over 30 years ago. After reading an advert in a certain magazine I know well, Richard ended up in Devon working with John and Simon Gawesworth at their fishing school. This...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 345 - Big Trout and Surfboards in Finland In this episode I head to Finland with my frinds Paul Procter and Chris Rownes. We fish a series of rivers that connect lakes where baitfish known as bleak head out of the lakes where sizeable brown trout are waiting. Aside from this, there are also some amazing caddis hatches where big, brown trout rise to them. Join us for a few days fishing and hear what happens as 3 friends armed with fly rods tackle these amazing trout.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 344 - Neville Broad - Saltwater in his Veins I talk with Neville Broad about his fly fishing career that is based largely around saltwater fly fishing both here and abroad. I learn about him fishing for various species until he caught his first bass and how it changed everything. During our conversation I get to hear a lot of fishing tips that will prove invaluable for anyone considering trying saltwater fly fishing in the UK or if they'd like to learn a little more.&...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 343 - Neil Lobban - Fishing, Casting and Teaching In this weeks episode I catch up with Neil Lobban to learn a little bit about what fishing means to him andfind out his local rivers and how they have been fishing of late. Neil is Chair of AAPGAI and he tells me how he started as an instructor and a little about the ams of AAPGAI and what the organisation is all about. We of course get some casting tips and shoehorn in some tackle talk too. Neil has done a lot for fly...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 342 - Yvette Austin - Fly Fishing and a Love of the Outdoors I catch up with Yvette Austin to learn about her fly fishing timeline that includes rivers, lakes and saltwater. From crabbing at the end of a pier to small stillwater, reservoirs and the streams of her home county of Kent, I hear about why she is so passionate about fly fishing. Yvette also talks about her role with the BBC as a presenter. We cover a lot of ground that I know you will find interesting.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 341 Fishing Bamboo with David Spencer I speak with David Spencer about his passion for bamboo fly rods. We look at the differing ways into this sub-genre of fly fishing via artisan builders like Luke Bannister, Edward Barder or Callum Gladstone among others or by searching auction sites or vintage tackle dealers to find a rod that might be perfect or needs some TLC if you are able to tackle the task. We also discuss fly line selection for your new rod and and al...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 340 - A Long Hot Summer It's been a while since I've fished my home water, the Taw, due to the warm weather we've been having. Water temperatures have been too high to cast a dry to a trout so I've been standing in saltwater casting to mullet and after a conversation with my friend Warren, we decided to see if we could catch some carp on the fly. I made a last minute decision to pack the mic hoping I had enough battery power and share the day with you. It starts slow ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 339 - The Italian Job Friuli 2026 I'm thrilled to once more be back in Italy with a group of anglers. The weather is hot, the water is cold but the trout are rising and everyone is excited. You'll join us to hear about the fishing and how we experience the 3 days of fishing. I speak with the guides and also learn a little more about the Danubian and Marble Trout. For me, these trips are special and getting the chance to share all of the wonderful moments is special. S...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 338 - Marnie Lovejoy - Chair of The Grayling Society I catch up with Marnie who is fresh from the river after catching a few fish before we recorded this episode. I speak with her about her new role as Chair of the Grayling Society, her passion for this fish and what her plans are for the future. Marnie talks me through her fishing timeline, the mentors she has had and what fishing means to her. I learn that The Grayling Society is run totally by volunteers and why su...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 337 = Mayfly Road Trip I load the van with a sleeping bag a few rods and head off to fish the Test, stay at a campsite and fish the Wylye the next day. It is early June and the mayfly are still about but the weather has shifted from the mini heatwave to wind and rain. On the Test, I fish with Neil Mundy who invited me along for the day. He tells me about his passion for stalking trout in clear water on both rivers and lake and the incredible charity work he does. The ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 336 - Emilie Björkman - A Life in Fishing Today, I’m excited to share my recent conversation with the incredibly talented angler, Emily Björkman. As a skilled fly angler who has traveled the globe with a fly rod, Emily brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for fishing, particularly for salmon. In this episode, we’ll explore her journey into the world of fishing from a very young age, the community around it, and her advocacy for salmon conservation.&nbs...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 335 - Neil Smith A Passion for Rivers In this episode, I catch up with Neil Smith an angler and guide based in the North West of the UK. I learn about the fishing he enjoys and why along with hearing about the rivers he likes to fish. Neil also talks about the issues with cormorants and how he was involved with the reintroduction of grayling into a local stream and how they are thriving. You'll sense the passion and love for fishing that Neil has that will come ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 334 - Catching up with an old friend. I first met Duncan Wilcox 12 or so years ago. He hired me as a guide but we got on so well that we ended up fishing a lot together. At the time, he was based in Devon but moved to Spain and has had a base in New Zealand for 25 years. In this episode, you'll hear us catch up, talk fishing and I hear a little about Duncan's fishing exploits. This was an impromptu recording that happened on the river during a hatch we had high hopes ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 333 - Amwell Magna and the River Lea What only feels like yesterday but was a number of years ago now, I was a member of Amwell Magna Fishing Club based on the River Lea in Hertfordshire. I made the long drive and was lucky enough to catch the mayfly hatch. I speak with members about what has changed since I last fished there and catch a few fish too. Feargal Sharkey was there and tells me what anglers can do to protect their waterways, we had lunch provided by Michel...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 332 - A Day in the Life In this episode I take you with me for the day in my new role at Trout & Salmon. You'll join us on a rod test on the river with Rod Hardy and guest for the review, Roger Fagan. Without giving too much away, you'll hear what goes into the test and how it is put together. I get to spend a few hours fishing with Rob before heading over to the Orvis store in Stockbridge to host one of our gatherings. I catch up with Ollie from the store and som...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 331 - Steve Bircumshaw - A Passion for Fly Fishing I catch up with Steve to talk about his fishing time line right up to the present. I learn about when he first picked up a fly rod and the impact it had on his life. Steve also does some guiding and works in the Mallon and Green tackle shop and often appears on their social media. He is a skilled angler who shares some great tips about fishing and fly tying. He also tells me about his life as a musician that you'll en...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 330 - Being a Guide for the Day In this latest episode I come out of retirement to take Malcolm fishing after I was persuaded to offer a Lot in the Wild Trout Trust Auction. The day takes place on my home water, the Taw in Devon. Malcolm and I talk about the fishing, his fishing career and the places he likes to cast a fly. As ever, this is recorded exactly as it happens with no re-takes or edits. Come and join me for a day on the river!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 329 - Tweed Salmon Festival 2026 The drive from Devon to attend the festival was a long one but worth it. I got the chance to meet some amazing people who care deeply about bringing people into fishing, caring about the fish and the waters they swim in. I based myself in the Yeti bar, a converted removal lorry but also walked around the festival to speak with demonstrators, tackle companies and those attending too. This isn't a trade show though. It is about encouragi...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 328 - Pit Stop Fishing I had to head to Hampshire on a non-fishing errand. I decided to pack my gear and if I got away in good time, I'd stop in Wiltshire and make a few casts. I only decided to pack my mic at the very last moment and have recorded the few hours on the river exactly as it happened. It is a stream of consciousness that talks about the fishing but ends up being a lot more and I think reflects how lifted we get by standing in a river catching a few...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 327 - Will Shaw & Mark Surtees on Fishing, Fly Casting and Instruction Part 2 I'm pleased to be welcoming back Will and Mark back to the podcast for the 2nd part of their trilogy of interviews that circle around fly casting information for anglers but also for instructors too. We start with an amazing story from Will on a huge fish he lost recently on a dry fly and how we cope with a loss like this. We discuss about the difference between stalking fish and fishing...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 326 - River Exe Fishing Day Every fishing day should start with a catch up over breakfast and a visit to a tackle shop. This is exactly how this day began when I caught up with friend and rod builder, Warren McCarthy, for a day's fishing on the River Exe and one of it's tributaries, the Haddeo. We have a fry-up and then drop into Lance Nicholson's in Dulverton to see James who runs the shop and make a few purchases. I start fishing with good intentions, sticking to ju...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 325 The Fly Fishing Community Last weekend we hosted our first Trout & Salmon Gathering at the Fox and Hounds down in Devon. The hotel has a special place in my heart as I spent 12 years of my life guiding the hotel's water. I'm always a little nervous ahead of these events but there was no need to worry. We kicked off with a film and went on to have talks, demos, tying, good food and even some music. The big clue I had was when groups of strangers were sat ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 324 - Dan O'Neill - Fishing Guiding and Life I caught up recently with Dan and was bowled over by his enthusiasm, passion and love for fly fishing. I learn about his fly fishing story, how he saw someone casting on the river when he was a young boy and the direction it took him in. He tells me about how determined he was to speak with the gillie at the hotel where he worked and how it led him into being a fishing guide. I also get some great fishing tips from him for ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 323 - A Day Trip To Glasgow I get up early, drive to Bristol airport to attend the Glasgow Angling Centre Open Weekend. I catch up with attendees, friends from the trade and get the chance to speak with the man behind the store, Paul Devlin, to hear his story from a stall on a market to a 30,000 square foot store today. I hear about some the latest products coming to anglers this year and talk fishing with all of them. You'll hear from Eoin Fairgrieve, Gordon Ar...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 322 There's No Place Like Home Water In this episode I am joined by my wife Emma and our dog Montana for a morning on our home water, the Taw, in Devon. We talk about some of the times we have experienced here and share stories of fish we have caught. We didn't plan to do a podcast but thought it might be fun to take you fishing, explain a little about where we're fishing and what it means to us.

Send us Fan Mail New Podcast Ep 321 - Trout Fishing in Patagonia Join me as I head to Argentina with my friend Ray in search of Patagonian brown, rainbow and brook trout. We fish a variety of rivers, lakes and spring creeks with nymphs, dries and streamers. The fish are like no other I have caught before and are sizeable and strong. We stay at Argentina Waters Lodge as a treat for my birthday. I have worked hard to capture what I can only describe as incredible fishing.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 320 Will Shaw and Mark Surtees on Fly Casting and Instruction In this episode, we explore the evolving world of fly casting instruction along with fly casting tips. Will and Mark have looked at the traditional teaching process and have looked into other sports to learn from them and how they can be transferred into fly casting tuition. Their modern approach focusses on their pupil and how they can take as much as possible from a lesson and to make the session enjoyabl...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 319 - Live from the BFFI In this episode, I'm at an event that is becoming the get together to mark the start of a new season, the BFFI in Staffordshire. I'm at the event in my new capacity with the magazine but I got the chance to speak with attendees and stall holders about the show and what it means to them. I've tried to capture the feel of the BFFI and give you some insights into tackle that you might be seeing this year. If you haven't been before, I hope this e...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 318 - 3 Days of Bonefish January has been wet, miserable and largely unfishable. Being able to feel the sun on my face and the company of good people has been a welcome tonic. I'm in Mexico and have 3 days of wading the flats to see if I can find bonefish, permit or tarpon. I'll talk you through what happens, tell you a little about flats fishing and let you know if we find any fish. Hope you enjoy!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 317 - Rob Hardy - Writing, Reviewing and Fishing In this episode I catch up with one of my colleagues, at Trout & Salmon Rob Hardy, to talk about his fishing career, dream destinations and the places that mean a lot to him. I also learn about how he got involved with writing at Trout & Salmon and what goes into the tackle reviews. We also touch on rod tests too. Since I have got to know Rob I've learnt he is a really good person who is thoughtful, kind and is ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 315 - Steve Cooper - Fly Fairs, Tying and Fishing I catch up with Steve Cooper, who along with his wife Bridgette, are behind the BFFI show that takes place in February. I learn what goes into it along with all of the planning involved. Steve tells me how the show came about and what he learnt from the early days. He is also extremely passionate about his fly tying business, Cookshill Fly Tying, that came from his early days as a custom fly tyer. If you're heading to ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 314 - River Walks and Streamer Talk on the River Taw I catch up with friend Fred Brown for bacon sandwiches and a walk along the river. He now lives in Devon and like me, his home water is the Taw. I take him to where I spend most of my time fishing as we walk the river and plan trips for next year. Fred is an extremely talented angler who enjoys both salmon, sea trout and brown trout fishing. He has been fishing streamers for a while now and appears in the excellent ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 313 - James Gilbraith - Fishing Plans, Social Media, Fly Tying and Life We've had this nice little tradition going of me speaking with Boo just before Christmas and whether he'll get through it OK. I thought it might be nice to see if he came through the other side OK and what he is planning for this fishing year. We also discuss the season that has passed, social media and the realities of book writing. Boo's view of life is wonderful, one that will make you laugh ou...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 312 - Winter Grayling with Ed Thomson It's between Christmas and New Year and I get a message from Ed asking if I fancy going fishing. The answer, of course, is yes. We eat a big breakfast and head to the river. It is always a pleasure to hear about a piece of water that means so much to them and this episode is no exception. Ed has a long association with it that you'll enjoy hearing about. As ever, this is just 2 friends talking about a pastime that means a lot to t...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 311 - Jani Himanko - Surf Board Streamers, Dry Flies and Big Trout My guest, Jani Himanko, is based in Finland. He tells me about the fishing in the area including the incredible story of the huge trout that leave the lakes to feed on the coarse fish that come into the river to spawn. I hear about the patterns he and his friends have devised to tackle these fish. I also learn about his life as a fishing guide and why he decided to open a fishing lodge, Kellankoski, an...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 310 - A New Chapter I don't really like talking about myself, I find other people much more interesting. In recent months though, my life has taken a big change in direction and I really wanted to share with you what has happened and why I made this decision. In this special, turning the tables on Pete Tyjas, I talk with Ben Jailler about why I took the job as editor of Trout & Salmon magazine, what the role involves, my plans for this much loved title and t...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 309 - Richard Gorodecky - The Meteor, The Ditch & The Very Big Trout This week we have a take over from author Richard Gorodecky who reads a section from his book - Throwing Feathers in the Wind. He was so popular last time that it only felt right to have him back. The piece he reads is from a chapter called - The Meteor, The Ditch & The Very Big Trout It is the story of a big trout. A very big trout. Buy the book HERE

Send us Fan Mail Episode 308 - Jack Westbury on Grayling Fishing Those clear, cold days aren't far off now and with that in mind, I caught up with angler Jack Westbury to pick up some tips regarding fishing for grayling. I learn a lot as he tells me about leader set up, spacing of flies, controlling the drift and manipulation of flies. We also cover tackle choices and his preference for longer rods. We discuss his trout fishing too, including long leaders and micro drag. Being based in Derbys...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 307 - Friends, Grayling and Falling Barometers Grayling days are sociable for me. They start with breakfast, fishing talk and catching up with friends. On this episode, I fish with my friend Paul Procter. We were planning to fish and just chew the fat. At the last moment, I ran back to my van, grabbed my mic and we captured the day and our thoughts exactly as it happened. We didn't plan or rehearse what we'd say preferring to speak about things we'd noticed that...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 306 - Chris Galvin - Michelin Stars and Fly Rods I catch up with Chris Galvin to learn about his amazing life so far along with his passion for fly fishing. He has been transfixed by water after seeing trout in a stream in Cornwall as a child. He tells me about how he first picked up a fly rod and where it has taken him over the years. He is also an extremely successful restauranteur and chef with a Michelin Star. He gives me an inside look at the work that goes into ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 305 - Philip Pinney - A Fly Fishing Life and So Much More There are times when you meet someone, hear their story and are amazed by the life they have led. Philip was born in New Zealand and had a fly rod in his hand from an early age. Fishing tiny streams with his friends he was never far from a river. On leaving school, he joined the RAF basing himself in the UK as the stillwater scene was just starting. He flew Buccaneer aircraft during the Cold War and travelled t...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 304 - Charles Jardine - Big News, Fishing and Life I talk with Charles Jardine about some big news he has shared regarding the work he and his team have done with Fishing For Schools. It could prove to be life changing for anyone deciding to follow the path they are laying out. We talk about how he has found fishing the rivers and lakes in his new backyard in Wales and look at the creative process of fly tying. We also look at parts of his life you may not know so muc...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 303 Hannah Arends - Black Forest Trout In this episode I speaks with Hannah Arends, an enthusiastic fly fisher from Germany, who shares her journey into the world of fly fishing. She tells me about her best fishing season yet, the balance between family life and her passion for fishing, and the importance of mentorship in her growth as an angler. Hannah talks about fly tying and why the pheasant tail nymph is her go-to choice for a day on the water. ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 302 - A Leap of Faith with Johannes Bulfin. I welcome Johannes back to the podcast to learn about his new guiding venture, Watershed Fly Fishing, based in Ireland. We'll hear about how his first season has gone and what he has learnt from it. Having fished with Johannes I know how talented he is as an angler and learn how he translates this into his guiding along with his ethos. He tells me about the good days and what they feel like but also about when the rain falls...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 301 - End of Season Reflections It's the end of the season on my home river, the Taw. The hours are counting down before I leave it for 6 months and wait until March comes round once again. I fish it for trout one last time and talk to you from the river about what is happening, how I am feeling along with how I've been approaching the water. This is a completely open and honest just speaking into the mic with no editing at all or any retakes. It is just the moments a...

Send us Fan Mail Special 300th Episode with Jason Borger Wow, where has that time gone? Thank you to everyone who has been a guest, written to say they've enjoyed the podcast and to everyone who has listened. I couldn't have done this without you. For this small landmark episode I catch up with Jason Borger to talk about fishing, casting and life. We look at his film work and talk about the sad passing of Robert Redford. Jason worked with him on 'River Runs Through It' and tells me about work...

Send us Fan Mail The Fly Culture Podcast - Episode 299 Simon Francis - The Wild Trout Trust and a Passion for Fishing I catch up with Simon Francis to talk about his fishing career, his home water including his love of the pocket water of the East Lyn in the West Country. We look at what fishing means to him and where it has taken him. He has also recently become Chairman of The Wild Trout Trust and I talk with him about what the role entails and how he sees the state of trout right now but a...

Send us Fan Mail The Fly Culture Podcast Episode 298 Fly Culture trip to Trentino, Italy I'm really pleased to be back in the mountains of Trentino with another group of anglers. There was a mix of returnees and 3 new members of the team who'd not been before. In this episode, I take you on the water, talk with the guides and those on the trip to give you a feel of the varied fishing we experience. As ever, these trips turn into being something more than the fish. It is about old friends, new...

Send us Fan Mail The Fly Culture Podcast - Episode 297 John Boon Fishing, Casting and Life A few years back John came down to Devon to do a season of guiding with my fishing school. It was a lot of fun and after a day of guiding out we'd fish, cast or just talk fishing. He is a supremely talented fly caster who passed his masters exam at the age of 20. We look at his home water, the Welsh Dee and he tells me how he prefers to fish it. We also talk about mental health and John speaks candidly ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 296 - Sarah Rønholt - Spey Casts, Salmon and Wilderness I catch up with Sarah as she speaks to me from her farm close to her home river, the Skjern in Denmark. I learn about the work that has been done to improve this river so that salmon are once more running it again. We look at the places she has visited both near and far and the impact they have had on her as an angler and a whole lot more too. We also talk about her role as an ambassador for Patagonia and the wor...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 297 - Todd Moen - A Life With a Camera and Fly Rod I catch up with Todd to talk with him about his fly fishing life and of course learn about the many fly fishing films he has made. From Montana to pretty much the rest of the world he has helped capture and shape how many of us view fly fishing. He tells me about his fly fishing career and how he first picked up a camera too. As someone who has put together an online magazine I got to hear how Catch Magazine was born ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 295 - Richard Gorodecky - Throwing Feathers in the Wind In this latest episode I talk with Richard Gorodecky about how he has found home in Ireland and the fishing he has discovered there. We discuss what fishing means to him and what he has taken from it. He has also recently published a book called Throwing Feathers in the Wind that he tells me about and reads a section from it. He is a talented writer who captures perfectly why we love fly fishing so much. If you'd...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 294 - The Fly Fishing Duo I meet up with Ewan and Millie to fish the River Wye in Derbyshire and talk about what fly fishing means to them. They are young and hugely passionate about our pastime and spend their working hours dreaming about going to the river. I get the chance to see fly fishing through their eyes and how it looks to them. They are both skilled anglers who catch some fish while we are talking. I often worry we live in a world that is dominated by socia...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 293 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, The People and Places Pt5 In the latest episode of the podcast take over with Pete Cockwill he takes us salmon fishing for king salmon in Alaska, talks about his love of grayling and takes us to the streams of Devon and Cornwall. As ever, it is delivered in a beautiful manner packed with fun stories and some poignant moments too. I hope you enjoy this one!

Send us Fan Mail I got the chance to walk and fish an amazing piece of water at Mottisfont on the famous Test in Hampshire. Mike and Neil tell me about their policy towards the water and what they have done to improve the habitat for the wildlife and fish there. It is a really interesting story and as they get ready to offer the fishing on a day ticket basis in 2026 I hear about how they plan to make it available for a wide range of people to use and enjoy at a price that suits just about eve...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 291 - Jon Harris Home Water I catch up with Fly Culture contributor Jon Harris to talk about his home water and what it means to him. We also look at what fly fishing means to him and where it has taken him. I learn a little about his fishing time line and how he likes to fish. We discuss how fly fishing is looking right now and are we a pastime populated by a small but passionate group of anglers. This is a wonderful discussion that I am sure you'll enjoy!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 290 - Richard McHattie - River Don, Competitive Fishing and Fishing Tips I speak with Richard about his love for his home river, the Don near Aberdeen a place where his fishing career began. I learn about how he started competition fishing that included him representing Scotland on both river and stillwater disciplines before going on to captain his country too. We look at how fly fishing is looking in Scotland and beyond and discuss whether we are part of a sma...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 289 - Stalking Carp I'm just back from Italy, the weather in Devon is bright and warm and I had been thinking of going to my local river but with it being so warm I thought I'd try something a little different. I decided to see if I could target carp with a fly in clear water. My plan was to spot a fish, cover it and if I was lucky, even catch it. I took the mic with me and talked as the day unfolded. It turned out to be a day of a lot of hard yards and a heap of walk...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 288 - Marble Trout in the Italian Mountains I packed my rods, headed to the airport and flew out to Italy on a Fly Culture trip. The destination was Friuli and the target fish was marble trout. None of the group had caught them before but under the careful eye of Vito and his team of guides we felt the chances were stacked in our favour. We fished a wide variety of water that you'll hear about but we all realised these events turn out to be about more than just the fi...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 287 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, People and Places Pt4 In the latest instalment of the podcast takeover, Pete Cockwill takes us from Cornwall to Surrey via Alaska and a few other places too. He tells us about the places he's been and what has happened during his fishing life. This focusses on his friendships and what they have meant to him and the fun he has had while out fishing.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 286 - Damian Robinson - Home Water I catch up with Damian to fish a stretch of water that is a real challenge to fish with some of the spookiest fish I have ever seen. I learn about how Damian approaches this sort of water and what he has learnt from fishing here. The term technical fishing is, at times, used a little too freely but this is without a doubt somewhere that tests your skill to the limit. There are lots of hints and tips that I think you're going to find ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 285 - Fishing, Gatherings and Good People I'm back on the road once more and this time I'm in Derbyshire to attend one of our gatherings at Mallon and Green in Bakewell. I managed to tag on some fishing too and fish the Derwent with Geoff Hadley and bump into a few friends along the way as we fish late into the night. The next morning, I attend the annual event that takes place in Bakewell to celebrate the anniversary of the river Wye switching to the dry fly only rul...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 284 - Fishing for Schools at Lakedown Fishery I'm back on the road again heading over to Lakedown Fishery in Sussex. The event, hosted by Charles Jardine, is a fundraiser for Fishing For Schools. During the day, I wander around the fishery speaking with those attending including Feargal Sharkey, Pete Cockwill, Yvette Austin, James Cuthbertson and Johnny Vegas who despite being an experienced coarse angler, has never fly fished before. Does he catch his first tro...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 283 - Scottish Road Trip I packed the van and made the long drive from Devon to Aberdeen with my dog Monty along for company. We fished the Don at Tilliefoure, a beautiful beat owned by Jason Bone who was a wonderful host. I met some of the people are involved with the Don on many different levels and learnt what this river means to them. I got lucky, caught a few trout but the trip turned out to be more than that, much more. You're welcome to come and join me and Mon...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 282 - Sandy Nelson - Home Water I meet up with fly angler, rod builder and Fly Culture contributor, Sandy Nelson to fish for the evening on his home water, the Don. I speak with him about the approach and the tactics he uses as we search for rising trout on the river. This was an impromptu edition that started with us talking on the river bank but the conversation was too good not to share with you. Listen as 2 friends and my dog, Monty, walk the river, make some cast...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 281 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, The People and Places Pt3 In the latest instalment of Pete's story he tells us about the work that he undertook at the estate he managed including the carp and trout on the lakes. There is a very amusing story about how he had to bury a recently deceased donkey which will have you laughing out loud. He also talks about mullet fishing with a bamboo rod and wet flies along with a little more about Alaska, Abel reels and a whole lot ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 280 - Road Trip This is an episode that is a little different. I pack the van and head off for a couple of days fishing. There is no plan other than to see if I can find a few rising trout. I share a few things that I use to catch some fish, talk about an old rod that means a lot to me and reflect on life and fishing. This is a totally open and honest episode that had no retakes, I just pressed record and talked. I hope you enjoy this episode.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 279 - Paul Gaskell - Fishing Tips, Observations and Flies I'm really pleased to have Paul back on the podcast. You'll need your notepads at the ready as I talk with him about fishing small streams and then he how adapts his approach for bigger rivers too. We look at the casts needed along with leader lengths for different water and what to do if you've arrived at the river and someone is already fishing. Paul also tells me about his passion for the work of Victorian a...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 278 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, People and Places Part 2 Pete Cockwill is taking over the podcast again for part 2 in a series of podcasts that cover his life in fishing. In this episode Pete tells us about his 20lb rainbow trout, king salmon, hunting squirrels and falling in lakes and rivers. The stories are all told in Pete's unique style that are both interesting and very funny too. I hope you'll enjoy this episode.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 277 - Tom Bird - Making the Changes In this episode I cover a lot of ground with Tom. If you know Tom, you might think he is mainly from a still water fishing background but he has a foot in rivers too. You'll find out which he prefers. We look at the pressures of being a guide and how to manage working in fishing along with the closing of Draycote and the effect it had on him. I also learn about his fishing time line and the impact it had on his career choice. He is ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 276 - The Tweed Salmon Festival This was the chance for me to hop in the van, pass over some rivers I've dreamed about and make my way to Scotland for The Tweed Salmon Festival. I catch up with friends old and new, talking with them about fishing, what it means to them as they walk around the show. This is a new show run by good people that, at its heart, is trying to encourage young people into fishing. I so enjoyed seeing so many children catching their first fish. ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 275 - Keeping it Real I meet up for some early season fishing with my friend Luke. We're on the Usk, a river know for early season hatches and rising fish. I step into the first pool and see a riser. Do I catch it? This is an as it happens, unedited podcast of how the day unfolds. I include some fishing tips and advice and a look into the thought process of a days fishing. Hope you enjoy this episode!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 274 - Pete Cockwill - The Fish, The People and the Places I'm excited to be bringing you something a little different on this weeks podcast. I'll be hosting a short series of monthly podcasts that chronicles the life of one of my fishing heros - Pete Cockwill. I doubt there will be many who don't know of Pete he has done so much in fly fishing over the years. From writing books, numerous articles, running a fishery and tackle shop, leading the way in stalking still wa...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 273 - Lucy Bowden-Croston and Lucinda Ewin on Fishing I catch up with Lucy and Lucinda to take a look at fishing and what it means to them both. Lucy is most at home with stillwater trout while Lucinda is primarily a salmon angler although I discover they do a whole lot more that this too. We talk about how fishing is looking, social media and bringing people into our pastime. This is a fun conversation that covers some really interesting topics I think you'll find a ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 272 - Last Gasp Grayling Online friendships are one thing but what if you decide to meet up, are you going to get on? I'd been talking with Mark from Shady River for a while now and we decided to eat a big breakfast and see if we could find some grayling. I took my microphone on the spur of the moment and we ended up talking about the fishing and looking a little deeper into how fly fishing looks, is it growing and what it means to us. We get a nice break from some go...

Send us Fan Mail The Fly Culture Podcast Episode 271 Jay Bartlett on Char, Salmon, Music and Tying Flies I catch up with Jay who was fresh from the vice and talk with him about production tying and getting ready for the fishing he has planned for the year. We look at our pastime and I ask about the 'we need to bring more people into fly fishing' debate. He tells me about his music career and I learn about playing guitar in front of large groups of people at a concert to standing alone o...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 270 - Rob Mason - The Journey North In this episode I talk with Rob Mason about leaving the streams of Devon and settling near Aberdeen. We compare fishing between the two places and how he has settled in. It is the time of year when new tackle is on the agenda along with fishing plans too. He tells me about how fishing brings a nice balance against his day job as a surgeon and the benefits of how it makes us all feel. I've known Rob a long time and this is very much ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 269 - Luke Kozak on Fishing, Friends and the EA I sat down and chatted with my friend Luke after eating a good breakfast and casting a few rods. I talk with him about his fishing career, when he used to guide with me, the places he likes to fish and the people he has met along the way. We also talk about the conservation work he did on rivers before joining the Environment Agency. He speaks about what is happening behind the scenes there. I hope you'll enjoy the conve...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 268 - The BFFI 2025 - All the Fun of the Fair Join me as I make the long trip from Devon to Staffordshire to spend the day at the British Fly Fair International Show. I catch up with friends old and new, hear about fishing plans, new products, books and what it is like to tie at the show. This is a series of short interviews with a number of people about what they've been doing at the show that is totally unscripted or planned, we just talk! Some of the people appeari...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 267 - Eoin Fairgrieve and Colin Macleod Talk Fishing and Festivals I catch up with Eoin and Colin to see how they feel fishing is looking, what their plans are for 2025 and their passion for salmon. We also take a look at the previous season, how it compared with the last few years and why as anglers, we are the eternal optimists. They are also behind the upcoming Tweed Salmon Festival that takes place over the 5th and 6th of April. I learn how the planning is goi...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 266 - Andrea Larko on Fishing and Art I caught up with Andrea to learn a little about her life and how it revolves around fishing. We look at the streams she fishes in Pennsylvania, the joy of blue lining, brook trout and making sure you pick the right fishing friend. I talk with her about her art and get an understanding of the work that goes into it and how it felt to sell her first piece. We also discuss the determination needed to be successful in the fishing ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 265 with Caspar Killick My guest for this episode, Caspar Killick, lives close to his local stream in Wales and tries to get there most days during the summer. He will also pack his Land Rover with his rods and a tent and might head to the far north of Scotland or even further in search of fishing adventures. He tells me where he has been and some of the places he's been to including a trip that he is currently planning. He is also an avid reader of fishing litera...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 264 with Peter Arfield I catch up with Peter to talk about a wide range of subjects that he answers in his own, inimitable and humorous way. He talls me about how he first started fishing the Wye in Derbyshire and the lessons he learnt while observing the trout in the clear water. We talk casting and why he decided to take a qualification and the impact it had on his fishing. Many will know of his tackle shop that was in Bakewell and I learn how it started and the...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 263 - Alex Brown on Fishing, The Mountains and Van Life In the latest episode, I speak with Alex Brown from his home high in the Pyrenees about fishing in the area, how it ties in perfectly with his camper van and how he ended up in Spain. We look at how a camper van can work perfectly with fly fishing and I make a confession about my plans for 2025 that may see me going this route. He also runs Advanture magazine that has a similar ethos to Fly Culture. I learn ho...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 262 - James Gilbraith - Anarchy Pie It's become a nice little Christmas tradition where I catch up with writer and fly angler James Gilbraith about the state of the fishing world. We look at seasons past, present and look to the future too. I talk with him about fly selection, fishing clubs why fishing should be fun. He also reads a section from one of his books that will resonate and make you laugh out loud too. As ever, he takes an amusing look at life that wil...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 261 - Zoe Dupuy on Trout, Grayling and Bonefish In this episode I welcome Zoe Dupuy along to the podcast. We look at Zoe's journey from Scotland to Hampshire and her love for both sailing and fishing. We explore the similarities between the sailing and fishing communities, the challenges of accessing prime fishing locations in Hampshire and introducing friends to the sport. Zoe tells me about the influence of media in the fishing community, the need to attract y...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 260 - From Wales to Siberia and Beyond with Robin Smith In this episode of the podcast, I speak with award-winning documentary director of photography Robin Smith. We discuss Robin's journey from life in London to rural living in the lower Wye Valley, his experiences with fly fishing, the iconic River Wye and the Monnow, as well as the challenges of balancing family life with a passion for fishing and how it fits with his busy work schedule. We look at ...

Send us Fan Mail I welcome Steve Cullen back for this episode to discuss the evolving landscape of fly fishing. We explore innovations in rod design, the importance of camaraderie in fishing, and the impact of social media on anglers' perceptions and behaviours. We also touch on ethical considerations in fishing and the changing dynamics of fishing photography, emphasising the need for respect towards fish, the environment and the influence of signal crayfish on trout feeding ha...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 258 - Aaron Day from Vintage Fishing Tackle In this episode, I talk with Aaron Day from Vintage Fishing Tackle about his journey from training to be a butcher to a business owner in the fishing tackle industry along with everything in between. We discuss Aaron's fly fishing career from fishing a stream in Kent to reservoir fishing near his home in Northampton. I learn about his business ethos, the huge range of rods he sells and the resurgence of bamboo too. ...

Send us Fan Mail I felt the need to spend some time standing in a river. I'm joined by my dog and look at what it means to have him along, the compromises you might have to make but how you can easily make it work. I talk about the set-up I use, how I make it work and how I might adapt it as the day progresses. It doesn't have to be complicated and I put everything to the test using some experience, water craft, gut instinct and a little bit of luck too. I also talk about my worries...

Send us Fan Mail I welcome James Harrold along to this episode where he shares his experiences of owning and running a trout fishery, the challenges faced, and the entrepreneurial spirit required to adapt and thrive in the fishing industry. He tells me about the transition from moving away from trout to coarse fishing, the emotional impact of closing the trout fishery and why he had to do it. His fishery recently appeared on the Mortimer and Whitehouse TV show and I learn what goes in...

Send us Fan Mail I met Ben on a river recently. I was taken by his great skill as I watched him work his way along the water. I asked him along to the podcast to find out a little more about his fishing career and to pick up some tips too. We ended up discussing a lot of topics that are both thought provoking and interesting. Ben talks with great depth and clarity and I'm pleased we have someone like him in our community. It is a better place as a result of it. Free to download and advert...

Send us Fan Mail I make the drive over to visit Charles Innis at the Half Moon Inn, Sheepwash in Devon. We talk about his relationship with the inn that goes back to the 1950s when his family took it on as a fishing hotel. He tells me about his love for the Torridge, looking after guests and running the inn with his brother. Charles is honest about the good and the not so good times and how a newspaper article made a huge difference to the business. Now in his 80s he is still deeply invol...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I speak with Wayne McGee, a fishing guide and lodge owner in Alaska. Wayne shares his journey from a childhood passion for fishing to operating a fishing lodge in the pristine wilderness of Alaska. He discusses the various species of fish available and the challenges of running a remote lodge. Wayne also reflects on the importance of family in the business and the joy of introducing guests to the beauty of Alaska's fishing environment.

Send us Fan Mail I made a promise to myself never to fish competitively after trying it over 25 years ago. This changed when I entered a friendly competition run by my friends Jethro and Rodney from Fluffchuckers. The event was run at Chew Valley Lake and the idea was to try and catch as many species as possible. I'm joined by author and Fly Culture contributor, Ben Jailler, who was captain of the good ship Fly Culture and knows the lake a bit. Join Ben and me in the boat as we talk, fish...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the podcast, I welcome Trevor Hayman, a seasoned fly fishing guide, to discuss various aspects of fly fishing, particularly on Chalk Streams. We explore the challenges of the current fishing season, the intricacies of hatch patterns, and Trevor's guiding philosophy. The conversation delves into the psychology of guiding and the journey to becoming a guide, and the importance of skill development. We also touch on tackle preferences, the...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Fly Culture podcast, Pete engages in a captivating conversation with Richard Miller, exploring his extensive fishing experiences, the evolution of fishing hotels, and the current state of river hatches. Richard shares his journey from fishing small streams in Dorset to targeting sea trout and salmon, highlighting memorable moments at the Half Moon Hotel. The discussion also touches on the impact of Airbnb on fishing accessibility and...