These flies work, and these rivers produce. Links are below. Note that these are all amply-stocked waters that many already visit and about which much information already has been published. I’ve found that many rivers are sub-par. I track in my fishing journal what fly patterns work on which waters. So, the links below are
Craig Matthews’ Flies
I hope everyone made it through the storm OK. Honestly, it was great to sit at home guilt-free, sipping hot coffee, and watching the Patriots make it to the Super Bowl. What a season! I had hopes to throw big streamers at deep pools this weekend, but the temps are in the way for me.
Louisiana Redfish: Cold Fronts, Hot Reds
What a special experience! I’m so grateful to Concord Outfitters for letting me and one of my best friends, Steve Campbell, go on their Louisiana redfish trip. I don’t think I’ve ever been to such a unique fishery both in terms of its expansiveness and the good chance of seeing enormous fish in shallow water.
A Tribute to Flip Pallot: Why ‘The Walker’s Cay Chronicles’ Is the Greatest Fly Fishing Show of All Time
I lament the loss of fly fishing icon Flip Pallot earlier this year. If you haven’t read them yet, words from his family are available at flyfisherman.com, T. Edward Nickens writes about the man on gardenandgun.com, and hatchmag.com has a nice piece as well. For my tribute, I’d like to make the argument that The
Best Fly Fishing Gifts (2025)
This is our annual holiday gift guide. It’s a long post below. Our crew loves gear! We donate 100% of our profits to charity: Project Healing Waters and Casting for Recovery. Most of our revenue comes from Amazon affiliate links, some of which are highlighted below. Clicking the links and buying the products will support