Have you ever wanted to fly fish in Alaska? Okay, that's probably a dumb question. Alaska is an AMAZING place, and Spencer Durrant just got back from a week chasing salmon, trout, and grayling. He shares the story of that trip, along with some of the most important lessons he learned, that apply not just to fly fishing in Alaska, but chasing fish EVERYWHERE. This is an episode of Untangled you don't want to miss! 

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

When you fish somewhere you've never been before, do you get nervous about being skunked? Is that even normal? I mean, a river's a river, right? How different can they be? 

Well, rivers are different from each other, and it's totally normal to be nervous about not catching from a river you've never visited before. On today's show, Spencer Durrant will take you through the four tips he uses to tackle water he's never fished before, and if you remember these tips, you can replace all your nervousness with confidence. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Tips for organizing your fly box
• Tips for fishing for grayling in Alaska
• Some advice on buying fly rods for fishing in Florida
• Some advice on what net you actually need for trout fishing

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

PICTURE - Rylee's #LiveReelLife Moment -  CHECK IT OUT

Have you ever run into an angler who seems to ALWAYS know the EXACT RIGHT FLY to tie on, no matter where or when they're fishing? That might seem like a superpower, but really, it's a skill that just takes a bit of time - and effort - to develop. On today's episode, Spencer Durrant walks you through the 4 concepts you need to learn if you want to always pick the right fly for any fly fishing situation. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Tips for casting dry flies
• Does color actually matter when picking a fly pattern?
• When should you change flies? 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

Submit a question for the podcast here!

HATCH CHART - Year-round Hatch Chart

VIDEO - How to Pick The Right Fly

PODCAST - How to Pick The Right Fly

EBOOK - Picking the Right Fly for Any Fishing Situation

Euro nymphing supposedly catches more fish than ANY other fly fishing method. If that's true, then why isn't EVERYONE doing it? To understand the truth about Euro nymphing, you first have to understand what the technique actually is. On this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant explains exactly what Euro nymphing is, he walks you through the pros and cons of Euro nymphing, compared to traditional indicator nymphing, and he shows you which method puts more fish in the net. By the end of this show, you'll have the information you need to decide if this technique is something you want to try. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Why presenting your flies properly is SO important
• When to cut and re-tie your tippet and leader
• Spencer's preferred dry fly floatants, and how to use them
• How to find new places to go fly fishing 

Links From The Show

SUBMIT A QUESTION HERE! 

LINK - Devin Olsen's article on Euro nymphing

LINK - Joe Trotter's video on Euro nymphing

Is there such a thing as a "bad" fly? And if there is, what makes another fly "good?" On this week's episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant is joined by Alex Stulce to talk all about the differences between good and bad flies. 

You'll learn about the concept of "magic" flies, and Spencer and Alex will share the 3 characteristics that all good flies need to have. 

Submit A Question For The Show!

LINK - Beginner Fly Fishing Masterclass

LINK - Beginner Fly Tying Masterclass

To become a dry fly fishing ninja, you'll need to complete a pilgrimage to the River Test in England, fishing only downstream drifts, from the bank, while wearing tweed. 

OR - you could listen to this episode of Untangled and let Spencer Durrant teach you 5 lessons about dry fly fishing that he's learned from his years as an angler and guide. These tips will help you take your dry fly fishing skills from "okay" to "freakin' fantastic" faster than you can say Diet Coke. 

You'll also learn about: 

• The difference between DT and WF lines, and what line is best for slow rods
• Why a short rod might be better than a long rod
• Whether trout can pick up a human scent on our flies
• How to get creative when tying your own flies
• The importance of using the correct weight fly line on your fly rod 

Submit A Question For The Show Here!

Do you get nervous at the sight of BIG water? You know, a river so big that it probably qualifies for fat guy seating on airplanes? 

That's completely normal! But part of your education and growth as an angler is learning how to fish these bigger rivers, and on today's episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant will walk you through 7 expert tips to do just that. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Tips for hiking with waders and wading boots
• Fishing hatches on lakes
• Tips for adjusting the drag while you're fighting a big fish

Links From The Show

SUBMIT A PODCAST QUESTION HERE! 

VIDEO - How to Find Trout in a River

Are you dismayed by the sight of rivers that look like chocolate milk? Does high water strike sadness and fear into your heart? Well, after listening to this week's edition of Untangled, you'll have all the tools you need to fish during runoff! Spencer Durrant walks you through what he's learned about fishing high, muddy water, and how you can apply those lessons to your own fly fishing circumstances. 

You'll also learn about: 

• How to see your small dry flies when fishing during a hatch
• Some tips for taking pictures of the trout you catch
• Some advice on teaching other people to fish, and getting them the correct gear 

Links From The Show

SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THE SHOW! 

VIDEO - Get A Fly Rod Un-Stuck

In this week's episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant reveals a secret so incredible he had to smuggle it out of Area 52 (bet you didn't know THAT existed, did you?). 

Okay, it's not that secret -- it's a collection of the 12 flies that Spencer believes will catch 99% of all the trout you encounter. Make sure to listen and see if you agree with his list. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Tips for fishing lakes
• Some recommendations for folks who have a hard time seeing their small tippets and flies
• The best sunglasses for all-around fishing applications
• How to fish deep pools

Links From The Show

SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THE SHOW!

VIDEO -  Untangled Ep. 45: How to Fly Fish on Lakes 

VIDEO - Untangled Ep. 15: Why You NEED Sunglasses

VIDEO - How to Fly Fish Pools

On this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant introduces you to the softer, gentler side of trout - a side maybe you didn't even know existed. After this show, you won't just be catching trout from your local stream - you'll be shaking fins with your friends. You'll know the different personality quirks of each trout species, and how those quirks can help you put more of them in the net! 

You'll also learn about: 

• Different types of indicators and why we use them
• Tips for storing your fly fishing gear
• A bunch of information about old bamboo fly rods and lines 

Links From The Show

SUBMIT A QUESTION - Click Here!

VIDEO - How to Find Fish

RESOURCE - AFFTA Line Standards Chart

Imagine sitting down for a one-on-one chat with a fly fishing expert. How much would that improve your fly fishing abilities? Now, imagine if you had the opportunity to chat with over 600 experts! You'd be a fly fishing ninja! 

Well, Dave Stewart, of The Wet Fly Swing podcast, has conducted over 600 interviews with fly fishing experts on his show over the years. And on this week's episode of Untangled, he sits down with Spencer Durrant to talk about the five most important lessons he's learned from those hundreds of conversations. 

You can check out more from Dave Stewart here. 

On this week's episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant walks you through the intricacies and mysteries of one of fly fishing's most legendary hatches. You'll leave with all the wisdom and knowledge you need to catch boatloads of trout during this hatch, leaving your friends speechless at your mad skills, and your enemies absolutely gobsmacked that you've progressed so much in so short a time. 

As if that's not enough, you'll also learn about: 

• Tips for setting the hook when fishing with different kinds of fly rods
• How to pick the right fly during stormy weather
• A few tips on using tippet rings and managing your leaders
• Impostor syndrome - what it is, and why you shouldn't let it be a bother 

Links From The Show

Submit a question for the show here!

VIDEO - How to Straighten Your Leader 

VIDEO - The Right Fly Formula

What the heck is a dry fly? And what are nymphs for? And what about streamers -  those are party decorations, right? So, why would anyone fish with that?

If you've found yourself asking these questions, you're not alone. The world of flies is confusing, especially for beginners. Luckily, you have a Diet Coke-swilling guide to help you understand all the different flies we use for fly fishing. On this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant will walk you through everything to know about the different types of flies, including the instances when you might want to use them.

You'll also learn about: 

• The best cities to live in if you want to be near great trout fishing
• How to safely wade a river
• Some tips on mending 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK

🐟 Join our Online Fly Fishing Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

PICTURE - Chris's Brook Trout #LiveReelLife -  CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - The ABCs of Fly Fishing Flies -  CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - How to Pick the Right Fly -  CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Nymph Rig Setup -  CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Dry Fly Rig Setup -  CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Streamer Rig Setup -  CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - How To Mend Fly Line -  CHECK IT OUT

Have you ever wondered how fly rods are built? Do you want to know what "rod action" means, and whether it matters to your experience on the water? And how much stress can you put a fly rod under before it breaks? Hank Haen and Adam Hutchison, of the R.L Winston Rod Co., join Spencer Durrant on this episode of Untangled to answer all those questions - and more!

Almost anything you could want to know about fly rods is answered in this podcast, including: 

• Why 5-weight rods are the ideal choice for most beginners
• How to understand rod action, and what it will do for you on the water
• Why 9-foot rods are so popular 

VIDEO - Fly Line 101 - https://youtu.be/9rGguDXasew

Are you tired of being outsmarted by fish? Does the thought of coming home empty-handed from yet another fly fishing trip fill you with dread and angst? Well, you're in the right place, because this week's episode of Untangled will help you solve one of fishing's most confounding problems -- how to catch picky fish! Spencer Durrant has five tips that he'll walk you through to help you turn those days of frustration into epic tales of success. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Tips for planning your own fishing trip
• How to control the drift of your nymph rig
• How to avoid spooking fish while wading
• The best way to attach your leader to your fly line

Links From The Show

VIDEO - Pick The Right Fly For EVERY Fishing Situation 

VIDEO - How To Have More Success With Dry Flies

PODCAST - Expert Nymphing Tactics Made Easy ft. Troutbitten

VIDEO - How to Fly Fish With Nymphs

VIDEO - How to Mend Fly Line

VIDEO - How to Spot And Stalk Trout

Have you ever struggled to explain to other people (friends, significant others, angry bosses) why you love fly fishing so much? Do you want to try and get a friend to fall in love with the sport, too? Well, you're in luck! This episode of Untangled features Spencer Durrant and Alex Stulce discussing why they love fly fishing, and why it's something everyone else should try. 

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our beginner friendly e-Book all about ➡️ Pick the Right Fly e-Book

CHECK IT OUT - All the gear you need to start fly fishing! ➡️ VFC Starter Packs 

In this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant gives you all the information and tips you need in order to fly fish in the wind. Say goodbye to tangled lines and frustrated days on the water, and hello to success, even when the wind is blowing hard enough to send you to Kansas! (Unless, of course, you already live in Kansas, in which case, we send our condolences). 

On top of that, you'll also learn about: 

• Tips for fishing dry flies
• Rigging up your nymphs
• A few tips on building leaders
• An outline for a fly fishing road trip
• Some advice on getting started working in fly fishing

Links From The Show

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our beginner friendly e-Book all about ➡️ Picking the Right Fly  

VIDEO - Casting in The Wind

VIDEO - How to Fish With Dry Flies

In this special episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant is joined by Domenick Swentosky to talk about essential nymphing tactics that beginning anglers just can't afford to miss. Dom is the man behind Troutbitten, one of the best learning resources available to fly anglers. Dom is also a dad, a guide, and one of fly fishing's most thoughtful writers. The conversation between Spencer and Dom features in-depth discussion on basic nymphing princples, as well as advice on how to take your nymphing to the next level. 

If you enjoyed Dom's advice, please take the time to check out Troubitten, which you can do here. 

This episode of Untangled is one of the most important pieces of media ever produced for beginning fly anglers. It rivals the value of buffalo wings and Diet Coke. In this week's show, your host Spencer Durrant walks you through everything to know about catch-and-release. He shares science-based best practices for hooking, fighting, landing, and releasing trout, so that you're able to leave our fish and rivers in the best shape possible. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Tips for tying better knots
• A suggestion on a good beginner fly pattern to tie
• The flies that Spencer HATES tying
• How to fish "weird" rivers

QUESTIONS?! - Submit Them Here!

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our beginner friendly e-Book all about ➡️  Picking the Right Fly

VIDEO - Hook & Fight Fish

VIDEO - Winter Fishing

VIDEO - Fly Tying Masterclass

PODCAST - Fly Reels 101

RESOURCE - Keep Fish Wet

Your intrepid host Spencer Durrant is joined this week by Matthew Lourdeau, the fellow behind the Casting Across blog and podcast! The bulk of this show centers on the lessons Matthew has learned about fly fishing from teaching it to his four sons. Spencer chimes in with his bad puns and a few anecodtes about guiding, and you'll also hear talk about the most valuable lesson we, as adult anglers, can learn from kids. This is a show chock-full of good times that you don't want to miss. 

Submit a question for the show here!

Links from the Show

Check out Casting Across. It's a truly wonderful resource for all anglers. 

If you've struggled with poor casting performance, bad accuracy, or simply feel like you're inadequate, we have the solution for you! No, it's not another pill -- it's this episode of Untangled! Spencer Durrant, former guide and current diet soda connoisseur walks you through five tips to improve your fly casting, even if you can't make it to the river. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Why your fly line sometimes slaps your rod during a cast
• Why fly rods break (and some potential fixes for them)
• Some tips for fishing during cold weather 

Submit a question for the show here! 

Links From The Show

Fly Casting Video from the Beginner Fly Fishing Masterclass

The Fly Flinger 9' 5-weight Fly Rod!

Winter Fly Fishing Podcast Episode 

By listening to this episode, you'll become a fly tying genie! We'll remove ALL the pain associated with learning to tie flies, and you'll be whippin' out bugs in no time! Alright, that might be a bit hyperbolic - but it's always a blast when Spencer Durrant and Alex Stulce get together, and they bring a great bit of insight into this episode. You'll learn about how both Alex and Spencer got started tying flies, as well as some of their exclusive fly tying tips that can't be found anywhere else. This is a MUST-LISTEN for anyone interested in tying flies. 

Links From The Show

The Beginner Fly Tying Masterclass

In this episode, Spencer Durrant breaks down what you NEED to know about booking a guided fly fishing trip. He explains how to get the best bang for your buck, and the mindset you need if you want to learn a TON from your guide. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Furled leaders
• The differences between nylon and fluorocarbon 
• Tips to avoid snagging up when fishing with 3 nymphs
• How to demagnetize your tying tools

Submit a question for the show here! 

Links from the show

Todd Tanner's story about guides in Hatch Magazine

Ep. 50 -- learn more about leader types here!

Ep. 47 -- Learn all about how we fly fish with nymphs!

One of the biggest problems that holds beginner fly anglers back from really finding success is this: they overthink the sport. Fly fishing, at its essence, is a simple sport! And in this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant will walk you through WHY it's so simple, and give you some tips to remind yourself of that when it feels like you don't know how to catch fish on a fly rod. 

In addition, you'll learn about: 

• The difference between fly rod actions
• How to properly store your rod, reel, and fly line
• Tips for applying dubbing to your flies
• Whether expensive fly rods are "worth it" 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART 

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

PICTURE - Jeff's Trout #LiveReelLife -  CHECK IT OUT

PODCAST - Ep 66 Nymphing Tactics - CHECK IT OUT

PODCAST - Ep 70 Fly Rods Explained - CHECK IT OUT

In this episode, Spencer Durrant gets reel. Get it? It's a pun...oh, alright, enough with the dad jokes. Seriously - Spencer dishes on all the criteria that you actually need in a trout reel, so that you can buy the right reel for your fishing situation. In addition to that, you'll learn about: 

• Some tips for beginning fly tiers, and why you should consider tying flies an investment
• The best fly rod for a young boy (hint: it's The Fly Flinger!) 
• What to do if you hook into two trout at once (yes, it can happen!) 
• Some tips for more effectively setting the hook on smaller trout

Submit a question for the show here! 

Links from the show

Beginner Fly Tying Masterclass episode on whether tying flies will save you money

Check out the Fly Flinger fly rod here!

In this episode, Spencer Durrant walks you through the murky world of fly fishing next to tons of other anglers! The rules for crowded rivers are different than the etiquette you'd give on a small stream, and today, you'll learn three tips to make your experience on a crowded fishery that much better. In addition, Spencer also found two tips to help you catch more fish from these crowded fisheries. 

As if that wasn't enough, you'll also hear about: 

• Tips for streamer fishing in murky water
• Advice for buying waders
• Using tippet rings
• Over and underlining fly rods
• The best knot for attaching a fly to your leader 

Submit a question for the show here!

Links from the show

Episode 24 -- Basic River Etiquette

Pat Dorsey's blog post on river etiquette 

Blog post from Linehan Outfitters on fishing crowded rivers

All about the Mono Rig from Troutbitten

Episode 57 -- Waders Buying Guide

Beginner Masterclass Video on Knots

In this week's episode, Spencer Durrant preaches about the use of barbless hooks for fly fishing! Ok, he doesn't preach -- but Spencer does lay out the reasons he uses barbless hooks, and why he recommends other anglers should try them. In addition to that stirring sermon, you'll also hear about: 

• Tips for catching hatchery trout
• Whether you should limit your fly selection
• Tips on winter midge hatches
• The best flies for beginners to use

Submit a question for the show here! 

Links from the show

The blog post from Fulling Mill about barbless hooks

Pick the Right Fly Masterclass Episode

Our FREE Pick the Right Fly eBook

The story about winter fly fishing from Fly Fisherman Magazine

CHECK OUT ALL of Skwala's great products HERE. Use code UNTANGLED10 for 10% off your next order at Skwala!

This is a VERY SPECIAL EPISODE! More special than the perfect buffalo wings! Today, Spencer Durrant sits down with Kevin Sloane and Rich Hohne from Skwala Fishing, a technical apparel brand that's gained a reputation for outstanding quality, especially with their waders. Spencer interviews Kevin and Rich to learn all about waders, including: 

• Why do some waders cost so much money?
• What makes a pair of waders "good?"
• What features should you look for in a pair of waders?
• Why do waders fail? 
• Where are the most common failure points in a pair of waders?
• How do you properly store and clean waders?
• How do you know if your waders fit you correctly? 

To kick off 2024, Spencer Durrant lists seven fly fishing skills that you NEED to master if you want to turn this year into your best year of fly fishing ever! You'll also learn about: 

• How to fish pressured rivers
• How to keep your tippet from tangling during your casts
• The best times of the year to go fly fishing
• Tips for fishing for brook trout in lakes 

Oh, and you'll get a heavy dose of dad jokes and wing humor in this episode, so you don't want to miss it! 

Submit a question for the show here! 

Links from the show

Watch our podcast on fishing emergers here! 

Watch our episode on nymphing here! 

Download our FREE Pocket Nymphing Guidebook here!

Watch our Masterclass Video on Matching the Hatch here!

Download our FREE Pick the Right Fly eBook here! 

We had an AMAZING year here at Untangled. To celebrate, we're highlighting some of the best moments from the podcast from 2023. Spencer Durrant takes us back to some of the greatest bits of advice (and humor), including: 

• All about fishing with emergers (from Ep. 46)
• One of our 6 Insider Tips for Success (from Ep. 32)
• How to approach new water with confidence (from Ep. 35)
• Do trout really remember being caught? (from Ep. 25)
• A how-to guide on landing trout on a fly rod (from Ep. 20) 

Submit a question for the show here! 

In this episode, our intrepid host Spencer Durrant reaches back through 2023 to give you the 8 most important fly fishing lessons he's learned. Be prepared to laugh, to weep, and to fall in love all over again with fly fishing. 

As if that wasn't enough -- we have a bunch of great questions to answer on this week's show, including: 

• When you should buy another fly rod (hint: always)
• Spencer's favorite basic dry fly patterns
• Tips on effectively fishing a dry-dropper rig

Submit a question for the show here!

Read the story about cleaning your waders here, via Troutbitten.

Get our FREE eBook on matching the hatch here!  

In this episode of Untangled, your host Spencer Durrant launches a new format to the show, and starts off with a great discussion about how to successfully fly fish during the winter. Yes, you'll be cold -- but you'll be catching fish, so that's all that matters, right? In addition to learning about winter fly fishing, you'll be treated to: 

• Recommendations for reels for light fly rods
• Best flies to start tying
• How to get your fly line unstuck from a tree
• An overview of Euro nymphing
• Conservation and fishing challenges
• The best dry fly setup for heavily pressured Western rivers
• Advice on buying waders 

Remember, we have a BIG episode all about waders coming up soon! Ep. 57 will feature a sit-down with two experts in the wader industry - you don't want to miss it! 

Submit a question for the show here. 

Buy the Baker's Dozen Pack of Midge Nymphs HERE!

Buy the Baker's Dozen Pack of Midge Dries HERE!

Watch the Beginning Fly Tying Masterclass HERE!

Length matters! Especially for fly rods. In this week's episode, you'll learn why fly rod length matters and why you want certain rod lengths for certain fishing situations. On top of all that, you'll learn: 

• All the different VFC resources available for you FOR FREE! 
• How to fish really deep holes 
• How to identify hook sizes and tips on organizing your fly box
• The best rods for small creek fishing

Enter the VFC Holidays Giveaway HERE! 

Submit a question for the podcast here.

Get the Pick the Right Fly eBook HERE!

Get our Pocket Nymphing Guide HERE!

Ep. 22 -- All About Fly Rods 

How to Roll Cast - VIDEO 

How to Cast a Fly Rod - VIDEO 

Winter Midges Story in Hatch Magazine

In this week's episode, you'll learn more than you ever thought possible about fly line! And we promise, it's NOT boring! In fact, knowing this info about fly lines will help you pick the best fly line for YOUR fishing situations. 

In addition, you'll learn about: 

• The best rod and reel combos for beginners
• Recommended flies for largemouth and smallmouth bass
• Tips for casting dry-dropper rigs
• How to handle fly line memory problems

You can enter the 1,000 Fly Giveaway HERE! 

Submit a question for the podcast here.

Shop our Starter Packs here.

Watch our Fly Fishing Masterclass video on Fly Casting here.

Do you wanna catch big trout? Do we even need to ask that question? 

We all love big fish, but sometimes, it feels like catching them involves more luck than it does skill. However, with the right foundation of knowledge, you can put yourself in situations where you have the best chance possible to net a trophy trout. 

You'll also learn about: 

• How long you can store fly line, leaders, and tippet before you should replace them
• How and why to choose the right nymphs for a nymph or dry-dropper rig
• Catching fish from water where you're getting skunked, but everyone else isn't 

We also have a WONDERFUL #LiveReelLife moment on the show today, so stay tuned to the end of the episode for that! 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK  

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

PICTURE - Stephan's Trout #LiveReelLife -  CHECK IT OUT

PRODUCT - Tippet - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Water Types - CHECK IT OUT

In this episode, Spencer Durrant teaches you how to recognize what a riffle is, why trout love to hang out in them so much, and how to catch TONS of fish from this type of water. As if that wasn't enough, you'll also learn: 

• What impact bug spray/sun screen has on your fly line
• Tips for improving your casting
• Flies with spinners on them (yes, this is a thing)
• A bunch of information about different types of leaders 

PLEASE RATE AND SUBSCRIBE TO THIS SHOW! 

If you have a question you'd like Spencer to answer, submit it here.

Take a look at our NOW IN STOCK Starter Packs here. 

Watch the video on fly casting from our Beginner Fly Fishing Masterclass here.  

Read our blog post about fishing riffles here.

In this week's episode, you'll learn all about the two basic rigs for fishing with dry flies. These are the rigs that you really need if you want to be successful with dry flies. You'll also learn about a bunch of other topics, including: 

• How to set the hook on dry fly takes
• Some tips for wading safely (so you don't take an unplanned swim)
• What nymph rigs you can fish without an indicator

You can submit a question for the show here.

Watch the video about dry fly rigs here. 

Read the blog series on how to find fish here.  

Get our FREE Guidebook on Matching the Hatch here. 

In this week's episode, Spencer Durrant discusses a tried-and-true formula for handling rejection. No, not that kind! The kind when a trout refuses your fly! Spencer's Formula for Handling Rejection will help turn those moments of sadness and frustration into success. In addition to Spencer's 4 Keys for Avoiding Rejection, you'll learn about: 

• Whether you should cut the welded loop off the front of your fly line 
• How to understand what water levels (measured in cubic feet per second, or CFS) can tell you about how a river might be fishing at any given moment
• Some can't-miss techniques for feeling subtle bites (like all those Colorado trout like to do) 
• Two ways to find places to fish if you're new to fly fishing 

Click here to submit a question for Untangled.

Click here to watch the video from Orvis on micro drag.  

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

• How to utilize various rigs (standard nymph rigs, Euro rigs, etc.) 
• Why nymphing is so effective
• How to get flies into the strike zone
• How to tell if your nymphs are deep enough
• And much more! 

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.    

What do you do when the bugs are hatching, but no fish are rising to eat them? Or, what if the fish are rising, but they're refusing your flies? And how do you handle it when literally EVERYONE on the river is catching fish, and you're only catching the skunk? Do you go home empty-handed, like the commies after WWII? Of course not! You listen to this episode of Untangled, where Spencer Durrant and Alex Stulce walk you through common situations you'll run into on tough rivers, and help you troubleshoot your way through them. 

You'll learn all about how to handle moments when: 

• Bugs are hatching, but fish aren't rising
• Fish are rising, but ignoring your fly
• No bugs are hatching, and no fish are rising
• Fish are rising, but you don't know what they're eating
• Other anglers are catching fish and you're not. 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART  

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

GRAPHIC - GENERAL BUG LIFECYCLE -  CHECK IT OUT

Small stream fly fishing is one of the sport's greatest experience, but tons of anglers overlook these hidden gems. Tiny rivers can present some tough challenges for anglers, but that's where today's episode of Untangled comes in! 

Spencer Durrant will walk you through EVERYTHING you need to know about fly fishing small streams, including how to rig up your flies, what flies to use, how to approach the water, and how to get the best presentation possible, so you come home with tons of memories. 

You'll also learn about: 

• The knots most guides use for fly fishing
• How to fish nymphs at different depths
• Some general tips on fishing with emergers 
• Why fly anglers generally don't use lifelike flies 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK  

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

LIVE REEL LIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

GRAPHIC 1 - SMALL STREAM EAST - CHECK IT OUT

GRAPHIC 2 - SMALL STREAM WEST -CHECK IT OUT

GRAPHIC 3 - DRY DROPPER RIG - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - POCKET WATER & LOB CAST - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - TRILENE KNOT - CHECK IT OUT

ARTICLE - ORVIS ASK EXPERTS - CHECK IT OUT

What are the best trout rivers in America? You know, the rivers that every angler should visit before passing on to that great river in the sky. And for that matter, why do we hold some rivers in such high regard? On this week's episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant walks you through his own ranking of the country's best trout water. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Dry-dropper rigs 
• The science behind water temperature's impact on trout 
• Why fly anglers don't use barrel swivels 
• How to find fishing spots in brand-new areas 

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART  

QUESTIONS TO THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

LIVE REEL LIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

ARTICLE - KEEP FISH WET - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - FINDING PLACES TO FLY FISH - CHECK IT OUT

What's the hardest thing about learning to fly fish? Is it the casting, learning how to pick the fight fly, or reading water? Or is it...well, everything? 

On this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant and Alex Stulce walk you through the major paint points you'll encounter when fly fishing, and they offer some great tips to help you navigate these. You'll come out of this podcast full of the confidence you need to absolutely crush it on the water! 

Links From The Show

FREE EBOOK - Picking The Right Fly For Any Fishing Situation

GEAR - VFC Starter Packs

VIDEO - Finding Places to Fish

VIDEO SERIES - Beginner Fly Fishing Masterclass  

SUBMIT A QUESTION - Click Here

Do you like losing big fish? Of course not! No one does! On this week's episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant walks you through a 5-step checklist he's developed over YEARS of losing big fish. If you follow these steps, you'll avoid learning the hard way like Spencer, and start putting more nice fish in the net in no time! 

You'll also learn about: 

• How to assemble a dry-dropper rig with barbless hooks
• Why barbless hooks are the best option for every angler
• How to tell the difference between hooking into a fish and snagging bottom
• Some general tips on how to effectively fly fish lakes 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

SUBMIT A QUESTION FOR THE SHOW!

VIDEO - How to Fight Fish

VIDEO - Fly Fishing Rigs and Knots

VIDEO - How to Fly Fish Lakes

VIDEO - Why You Should Use Barbless Hooks

Beginners don't always have a guide, or even an experienced fishing buddy, to help them overcome the mistakes they make on the water. There's A LOT of trial and error that goes into learning to fly fish, especially if you're doing it on your own. Today's show breaks down four of the most common beginner fly fishing mistakes, and how to fix them, so you can quickly improve your skills and have a better chance at putting more fish in the net. 

You'll also learn about: 

• The best way to rig your nymphs to catch more fish
• How long your flies should drift in the river
• Catch-and-release tactics to take care of trout
• The basic fly fishing fundamental that will CHANGE your life 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

VIDEO - Fly Fishing Crash Course - CHECK IT OUT

PICTURE - Micah's #LiveReelLife Moment -  CHECK IT OUT

The single most important skill you can develop is to present your flies in as lifelike and natural a way as possible. You could have the PERFECT fly, but it won't matter if you can't put that fly in front of a fish in a way that mimics the real thing. In today's episode, Spencer Durrant walks you through six tips that will help you perfect your presentation and immediately start putting more fish in the net. 

You'll also learn about: 

• Fly recommendations for bass and bluegill
• Loop-to-loop versus nail knot connections for fly line to leader
• How to meet new anglers to fish with
• How to work fish close to far 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

VIDEO - Mending 101 - CHECK IT OUT

VIDEO - Pick the Right Fly - CHECK IT OUT

PICTURE - Chris's #LiveReelLife Moment -  CHECK IT OUT

If you don't rig your flies correctly, you won't catch fish. 

Alright, that's a bit dramatic - but it's not far off from the truth! The way your flies are rigged impacts your ability to present them in as realistic a way as possible. And since our goal is to fool fish into thinking our fake fly is the real thing, you can see how important it is to correctly rig your flies. In this episode, Spencer Durrant walks you through how he rigs his dries, nymphs, and streamers, sharing the exact steps he uses after 20 years of fly fishing, a few years of guiding, and teaching thousands of new anglers here at VFC. 

You'll also learn about: 

• How to correctly size tippet for multi-fly rigs
• The best flies to start with when you begin your day on the water
• Tips for casting in the wind
• How to tell what size and type certain flies are 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

DOWNLOAD - Rigs & Knots Pocket Guide - CHECK IT OUT

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

VIDEO - Right Fly Formula - CHECK IT OUT

PODCAST - Fly Casting in the Wind - CHECK IT OUT

PICTURE - Britton's #LiveReelLife Moment -  CHECK IT OUT

What flies do you ACTUALLY need in your box? And how do you know which ones to choose? Is there some sort of secret that we're just not telling the fly fishing masses?

Not really. Knowing what flies to take with you to the water (so you don't end up hauling 1,000 flies every time) comes with experience. But on this episode of Untangled, we're going to short-circuit that experience and give you all the info you need RIGHT NOW to always pick the right fly. 

You'll also learn about: 

• How to tell emergers apart from dry flies
• What to do when you get snagged
• How far up river you should cast when fly fishing
• Spencer's recommendations for fishing sunglasses
• Why your knots break 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ YEAR-ROUND HATCH CHART

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

PICTURE - Spencer's #LiveReelLife Moment -  CHECK IT OUT

If you're a beginner, you probably have TONS of questions about fly fishing! And while we try to answer a lot of those on Untangled, sometimes we miss a few. 

So on this show, Spencer Durrant and Alex Stulce sat down with two beginning fly anglers, to answer their questions and hopefully point them in the right direction. The beginners ask everything from how to adjust your reel to the best way to fish big rivers. 

If you're a beginner, one (and probably more) of your common questions will be answered in this episode. 

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

If you've ever walked into a fly shop to get outfitted for fly fishing, you've probably felt like you were floating in the Pacific Ocean with NO LAND in sight! The amount of things you CAN buy is overwhelming! So, what do you actually need to get started? On this episode of Untangled, Spencer Durrant walks you through a list of all the gear beginners need, and he explains WHY this is the gear you should start with. 

You'll also learn about: 

• When to use a dry dropper rig
• How to set the hook when fishing down stream
• When you should add movement to your flies
• Why you can't catch certain fish

LINKS FROM THE SHOW

💥 Want to Level Up Your Fly Fishing Skills? Check out our FREE ➡️ RIGHT FLY E-BOOK

🐟 Join the VFC Online Community - CHECK IT OUT

QUESTIONS FOR THE SHOW - SUBMIT HERE

#LIVEREELLIFE MOMENTS - SUBMIT HERE 

PICTURE - Jarek's #LiveReelLife Moment -  CHECK IT OUT

PODCAST - Best Fly Line - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - VFC Starter Packs - CHECK IT OUT

GEAR - Fly Flinger Rod - CHECK IT OUT

RESOURCE - Gear Checklist - CHECK IT OUT

ARTICLE - Good Hook Sets - CHECK IT OUT