The Fly Culture Podcast

Send us Fan MailNew Podcast with Steve Thornton - Listen to the RiverPhotographer, fly tyer and author Steve Thornton joins me for the latest episode of the podcast. In it, he traces his path from a Fleetwood fishing family to inventing Nymph Skin, then leaving the industry and coming back with a third book of patterns tied only for himself.I learn what fishing means to him and that he doesn't go to catch fish, it is about more than that for him.He tells me about an epic hatch he once encountered on the East side of the US and the process of designing flies with minimal materials.We cover a lot of ground but I enjoyed most to hear that Steve marches to his own beat and doesn't follow trends or fashion just doing what he enjoys and believes in.Hope you enjoy this one too.

Send us Fan MailNew Podcast EpisodeI catch up with Marnie Lovejoy, chair of the Grayling Society to do some fishing.We start the day, as any fishing day should, we a fried breakfast before hitting the river.I talk with her about fishing and also what it is like stepping into a new role much like I have done recently.I hear about the work of the Grayling Society and why, if you fish for these amazing fish, that you should consider being a member.Sit down, relax and join us for a day on the water.

Send us Fan MailNew podcast with John HorseyI have to admit to being a little star-struck interviewing someone whose words I’ve been reading in Trout Fisherman and other publications for years.I’ve got to know John more recently through his excellent, well-observed articles in Trout & Salmon.In this episode, we talk about his career in fishing, including more than 30 years of guiding.John discusses the importance of Chew Valley Lake and how what he’s learnt there has helped him with his fishing around the globe.We also explore how pike fishing at Chew has added another dimension to his enjoyment of the lake, while allowing him to expand the services he offers as a guide.I learn about dropper length, fly selection and John’s vast experience of fishing, including his time spent competing.I dare you not to laugh out loud when you hear what was included in the goody bags at the Benson & Hedges competitions!This was a really fun conversation with someone I regard as one of the greats of the UK fly-fishing scene.

Send us Fan MailEpisode 353 - Martin Smith on Tackling Water Companies and PollutionIn this episode, Martin Smith shares his extensive experience in fishing, environmental activism, and legal battles to protect waterways. I am hoping his insights inspire listeners to take action at the local level to improve river health and fish populations.

Send us Fan MailEpisode 352 - Dan Osmond - Peace, Trout and UnderstandingIn this episode, I welcome back Dan Osmond to discuss various aspects of fishing, including the impact of climate change on fish populations, the importance of alternative fishing species, and Dan's work with the West Country Rivers Trust. We explore the resilience of trout, the effects of pollution on rivers, and the engagement of younger generations in angling. Dan also shares insights into his journey of writing a book about his fishing experiences and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Dan discusses the interplay between environmental challenges and the beauty found within them, reflecting on his writing process and the emotional journey of creating his book. He shares insights on the discipline of writing, the importance of finding one's voice, and the therapeutic nature of expressing thoughts through writing. Dan reads a powerful excerpt from his book, emphasising the urgency of ecological advocacy and the need for action against climate change. I hope you enjoy this episode!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 351 - Tankred Rinder from Deep House to Sunk LinesIn this episode, Tankred Rinder shares his journey from music and journalism to becoming a passionate fly fisherman and publisher in Germany. He discusses his love for still water fly fishing, the process of translating and publishing fly fishing books, and the unique fishing culture in Germany.

Send us Fan MailEpisode 350 - Riverside RamblingsJoin me, my dog and good friend Warren as we see off the last day of my trout season on my home river, the Taw, here in Devon.We fish some bamboo, smoke a cigar and pipe and have a good lunch by the river.It wasn't the easiest day but worked out OK in the end but you'll get a feel for the thought process and the fun we have while there.As ever, this is a podcast that is more about the fishing than catching the fish.Hope you enjoy!

Send us Fan MailEpisode 349 - Fly Casting with Will Shaw and Mark SurteesI am pleased to be rejoined by Will and Mark in the 3rd part of the trilogy of interviews regarding fly casting, the teaching process and of course, fishing too.We hear about their recent fishing trips and then dive into fly casting.In this discussion, we talk about practice routines and making sure it is mixed up.We also look at why block-booking lessons makes a lot of sense along with a whole lot more.As with the previous interviews, there is a lot on valuable information that anglers and instructors whether new or experienced can gain from listening.

Send us Fan MailI sit down on a Yeti cooler with Fred Campbell founder of Hooké, a brand that has made amazing fishing and conservation films along side an ever growing clothing range.I learn about his fishing career, his thoughts on conservation and the shift in focus both he and I have noticed in how our pastime is moving away from the hero shot to the bigger picture of fishing.He tells me about how he formed Hooké and how it has grown without ever losing it's focus on conservation.Fred's story is an inspiring one that, despite it's success, he remains humble and modest.People like Fred are helping shape how fly fishing is being viewed from the outside and we're lucky to have him portray it in such a positive way.

Send us Fan MailEpisode 348 - Visiting the Chatsworth Country ShowI 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 these shows and the chance to catch up with some of the people who are part of our fly fishing world.