In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we sit down with Danielle Davidson, the owner and head guide of Lady Guide Fly Fishing in Apalachicola, Florida. Danielle brings her passion for conservation, her expertise in guiding new and seasoned anglers, and a trove of engaging stories from the waters of the Forgotten Coast.

Key Highlights:

1. The Forgotten Coast Lifestyle:

• Danielle shares the charm of Apalachicola, a picturesque and vibrant coastal town, famous for its community spirit, festivals, and untouched natural beauty.
• Explore the rich ecosystem of the area, from the Apalachicola River to Little St. George Island, offering adventures in fishing, birding, and more.

2. Triple Tail Fishing Insights:

• Discover why triple tail is the perfect species for introducing beginners to saltwater fly fishing, and get Danielle’s tips on gear, setups, and her favorite fly patterns, such as the Flexo Crab and shrimp flies.
• Gain an understanding of triple tail behavior, including their habitat preferences and how to present the perfect cast.

3. Conservation and Community:

• Danielle discusses the importance of sustainable fishing practices, highlighting local tagging programs and the need to preserve fish populations like triple tail.
• Reflect on the role of anglers and guides in fostering a culture of conservation while still enjoying the thrill of the sport.

4. Adventures and Memorable Tales:

• Listen to Danielle recount the story of her unforgettable tarpon encounter, a suspense-filled tale of strategy and chaos under the iconic Long Key Bridge.
• From mishaps to triumphs, hear how every experience on the water contributes to her growth as an angler and guide.

5. Beyond Triple Tail:

• Dive into Danielle’s expertise on other species, including tarpon, sheephead, pompano, and black drum, and her excitement for expanding her guiding services to target tarpon in 2025.
• Learn about seasonal shifts in fish behavior and how Danielle adapts to provide the best possible client experiences.

6. Fly of the Month Project:

• Danielle introduces her Fly of the Month initiative, where custom-tied flies, patterns, and stories arrive in anglers’ mailboxes. Hear how this creative project inspires anglers to think outside the box.

Concluding Thoughts: From fishing techniques to conservation, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to refine your fly fishing strategies or simply enjoy a good fishing tale, Danielle’s insights and enthusiasm are sure to leave you inspired.

Connect with Danielle:

• Website: Lady Guide Fly Fishing
• Fly of the Month: Subscribe on her website!

Get Involved: Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe to Southeastern Fly on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with your fishing partners, and leave us feedback or suggestions for future topics. Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!

Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we delve into the world of soft hackles, exploring techniques, setups, and tips to enhance your fishing game. From understanding how soft hackles imitate bugs to trying various rigging methods, this episode provides insights for both novice and seasoned anglers.

Key Highlights:

• Understanding Soft Hackles: Soft hackles are used to mimic bugs rising from the bottom to the surface, and are most effective when fish aren’t feeding on dries. Watching for backs and tails rather than head rises helps in identifying feeding fish ready for these emergers.
• Versatile Rigging Techniques: David shares various ways to fish soft hackles, including using them under a nymph or dry fly. Adjusting tippet length, loop rigging for mobility, and layering soft hackles with different weights and colors are discussed in depth.
• Fishing Multiple Soft Hackles: For a unique and highly effective technique, David introduces fishing multiple soft hackles on a swing. This method, similar to the “three-two-one” rib-cooking technique, requires precise positioning and different weights in a line to mimic varying bug stages and attract fish effectively.
• Adjusting Strips and Swings: Different stripping and mending techniques are crucial for maximizing bites. David recommends experimenting with swing speed, rod tip position, and strip variations to find what works best in different water conditions.
• Practical Tips: The episode emphasizes practical advice, such as checking knots frequently, adjusting setups based on fish behavior, and practicing casting for better distance and coverage.

From technique adjustments to systemizing your fishing approach, this episode is packed with tips that make soft hackles a versatile tool in any angler's arsenal. Listen in to learn how to effectively swing, rig, and adapt soft hackles for success on the water.

Make sure to share this episode with fellow anglers and catch us on YouTube for more fly fishing insights.

Produced by NOVA Media

Russ Madden provides an engaging look into the art and science of streamer fishing, covering a wide range of topics essential for novice and experienced anglers. david and Russ start by discussing the significance of understanding the specific fishing environment—how factors like water clarity, flow, and temperature play a pivotal role in selecting the right fly. Madden's vast experience has taught him that adapting to these conditions is crucial for success, and he offers practical tips on matching flies to local prey species, ensuring that anglers can maximize their chances of hooking a fish. This episode is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge of streamer fishing, blending technical advice with personal stories that resonate with all fishing enthusiasts.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the importance of water conditions is crucial for effective streamer fishing.
• Matching the fly color to the river's bottom color can greatly increase catch rates.
• Streamers can vary in size and weight; choose based on specific fishing conditions.
• Patience and mental fortitude are key attributes for successful streamer anglers.
• Utilizing local knowledge and adapting to changing conditions improves fishing success.
• Experimenting with different weights and fly designs can lead to discovering new techniques.

Produced by NOVA Media