FLY FISHING BLOG

Fall is one of my favorite times of year to be on the water. The air cools, the leaves change, and the rivers settle into low, clear flows. These conditions might intimidate some anglers because trout can get skittish when the water thins out, but f … read more

Fly fishing anglers targeting trout, warm-water, and saltwater species can benefit immensely from using a tandem streamer rig, which features two streamers fished in succession. Here are the top five reasons why this versatile setup is worth adding … read more

At RiverBum, we believe every angler should have a few cornerstone flies in their box—patterns that are reliable, versatile, and proven through decades of use. Near the very top of that list is the Parachute Adams, a dry fly pattern so effecti … read more

When I first started as a fly fishing guide over two decades ago, one of the first lessons I learned was this: if you want to consistently catch fish—whether you're on a freestone stream, tailwater, or alpine lake—you better have a Princ … read more

When it comes to fly selection, few choices are as strategic—or as rewarding—as tying on a golden stonefly just after runoff. I’ve guided and fished across some of the best trout waters in the country, from the freestones of Colora … read more

When it comes to fly-fishing, few insects are as iconic or as essential for anglers as the stonefly. These fascinating creatures play a crucial role in the aquatic ecosystem and are an important food source for trout, especially during high-water co … read more

Spring and early summer bring a surge of energy to our rivers — snowmelt from the high country barrels downstream, swelling flows, and turning once-clear water into a swirling mix of sediment and foam. For many anglers, this annual runoff sign … read more

When beginners enter the world of fly fishing, they often believe that the most expensive rod will make them better at casting.  While having a quality rod is beneficial, most fly-fishing guides including myself would argue that upgrading your f … read more

As temperatures rise across the nation, the aquatic world comes alive. Warmer weather triggers the natural cycle of insect hatches, fish spawning, and increased feeding activity. For fly anglers, this means adjusting tactics to match the seasonal foo … read more

At Riverbum, we know that anglers come in all types—from seasoned fly fishers to those just starting out with spin gear. One technique we’re passionate about sharing is fishing with a fly on a bubble. It’s a versatile and highly productive method tha … read more

As a professional fly fishing guide, I’ve spent countless days on the water during the colder months. Whether you're casting for trout in icy rivers, swinging for steelhead in the Pacific Northwest, or chasing bass and pan fish in the south, there’s … read more

Even the best anglers have days when the fish just don’t seem to cooperate. Over the years, as a professional fly fishing guide, I’ve learned that when things aren’t going your way on the water, a shift in strategy—or attitude—can save the day. … read more

Any luck? How many times do you get asked that question while you are out fishing? My response is simple; “No luck…. Just skill!” Fly fishing is more than casting a fly and hoping for a bite. Success on the water depends on several things going “righ … read more

In Western fly fishing, an angler’s fly box is a treasure trove of options: dry flies, nymphs, midges, streamers, terrestrials with literally thousands of patterns falling within these categories. On top of that are the other … read more

When people hear mention of tenkara, they typically think of small streams and creek fishing for fish in similar size categories. Most anglers would not consider using a tenkara rod for a float trip, but I encourage you to continue reading. By t … read more

As the days grow longer and the chill of winter slowly loosens its grip, seasoned anglers like myself begin to prepare for the upcoming fly fishing season. With decades of experience as a fly fishing guide, I've come to appreciate the importance … read more