Semperfli’s Dirty Bug Yarn is a specially designed mix of natural and synthetic materials, and in many ways reminds me of a modern version of Chadwick 477, the original material used to tie patterns such as the Utah Killer Bug. In fact, Semperfli also now offers a material called Chadwick 477 Substitute for tying this […]
Tying with Semperfli Dirty Bug Yarn Read More »
The name Dark Skies Fly Fishing often stirs curiosity. I’ve heard many guesses as to its meaning, its origins, and even some wild tales about who might be our audience. Truth be told, if you’re reading this, you’re our audience, and everything we do is for you. All of our articles, YouTube videos, and even
Why Dark Skies Fly Fishing? What Does the Name Mean? Read More »
In the springtime, driving along popular stretches of streams and creeks often gives way to multiple cars in every pull off and numbers of fisherman stacked up in likely runs and pools. This scenario occurs as regularly in stocked put-and-take waters as it does special regulations sections. Sometimes, finding a place to strategically work with
Fishing Skinny Water: Riffles, Pockets, Side Channels, and Bank Water Read More »
In my box of terrestrial tricks, you’ll invariably find the Letort Cricket. Developed by Ed Shenk in the 1950s, Shenk often touted the Letort Cricket as his most effective fly, and he wasn’t wrong. He said he’d used it to catch trout on rivers all across the United States as well as Argentina, and although
How to Fish and Tie the Letort Cricket Read More »
Dark Skies Fly Fishing is teaming up with Mountain Laurel Guide Service and Captain Kurt’s Charters to host a fully guided group trip for steelhead November 24-27, 2024. This is prime time for fishing in this region! Home base will be The Lodge owned by Captain Kurt. This beautiful house/cabin is ideally located within walking distance of
Steelhead Group Trip Set for November 24-27, 2024 Read More »
Midges are some of the most common insects found in waterways all around the world. This article discusses tactics for catching more fish with midges, favorite patterns, and when to use them.
Fly Fishing with Midges: Best Midge Patterns and How to Fish Them Read More »
The Smokejumper was developed by Montana fly fishing guide Mike Hoiness for fishing the Bighorn River. The fly works everywhere, though, and is particularly good in small sizes for matching midge hatches here in the Eastern U.S. One of the things I appreciate about this pattern, other than its effectiveness at catching trout, is that
How to Fish and Tie the Smokejumper Fly Read More »
Fly fishing during fall can be spectacular. This time of year, trout are feeding heavily in preparation for the spawn and winter. But that doesn’t mean they’re also easy to catch! This article provides tactics and tips for making the most of your time on the water this fall.
Fall Fly Fishing Tactics for Trout Read More »
Last year, I decided I was done with my tight-lining ways and decided to go all-in on Euro nymphing. Of course, that meant buying a fly rod designed specifically for Euro nymphing. Yes, to some degree, you can still effectively Euro nymph with just about any fly rod, but the heavier fighting butt and more
Review: The Cortland Nymph Series Rod Read More »
When I was a kid living in Western New York, I remember a news report about the Cuyahoga River in Ohio, a tributary of Lake Erie, catching on fire. Even to an elementary schooler, the idea of water being aflame was pretty fantastical. Back then, the vast Lake Erie was biologically dead. Thankfully, the Cuyahoga
Ohio Steelhead: Fat Fish in Skinny Water Read More »