The Articulate Fly The Articulate Fly LLC

Delve into the heart of Pennsylvania's fly fishing scene with host Marvin Cash as he checks in with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop in State College on The Articulate Fly. George is buzzing with excitement as he reports from Muncy, PA, preparing to launch a new TCO location set to open its doors on April 26. Despite his travels, George brings us back to State College where the streams are swollen but promising, with spring creeks offering fishable conditions and hatches beginning to flourish.
As the waters slowly recede, George paints a picture of green, pushy flows and the challenge of navigating high levels. Yet, for the determined angler, there's reward to be found working the edges where Grannoms and Hendricksons are making their timely appearance. The duo discusses the recent weather's impact on the hatchery opener and the hopeful forecast ahead, suggesting clearer skies and better fishing days are on the horizon.
As Marvin celebrates the 800th episode milestone of The Articulate Fly, he extends an invitation for listener questions, with the promise of swag and the chance to win something special from the shop at season's end. So, whether you're a local or planning a visit to central PA's waters, tune in for the latest updates, sage advice and the camaraderie that comes from a shared passion for the perfect cast.
Remember to visit TCO Fly Shop for all your fishing needs, and when you're out on the water, stay safe and tight lines!
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Learn to avoid the crowds with host Marvin Cash and the seasoned wisdom of Mac Brown in this enlightening episode of The Articulate Fly. As spring unfurls its greenery, Mac recounts his recent Appalachian Trail adventure with family and his return to his home waters. With the trout opener drawing legions to the water, Mac offers sage advice for those seeking tranquility and eager bites—venture to the lesser-trodden paths up high or embrace the thrill of warm water fishing for bluegill and bass.
Looking beyond the river's edge, Mac shares details of his upcoming advanced casting school, an opportunity for anglers to refine their skills and embrace the challenges of wind and water with finesse.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, this episode is a treasure map to the hidden gems and solitary stretches of water where the fish are plentiful and the company is scarce. So lace up your boots, grab your rod and let the wisdom of Mac Brown guide you to your next great fishing adventure.
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Wade into the dynamic waters of central Georgia with host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly as he joins fly tyer and Riverkeeper Fletcher Sams for a riveting conversation about the elusive shoal bass, innovative fly designs and the vital work of safeguarding the region's aquatic habitats. Fletcher shares his deep connection to these unique fish, recounting the vivid childhood memories that sparked his passion and the journey that led him to the "dark side" of fly fishing.
The episode dives into Fletcher's creative process, from the conception of his signature Tweaker fly to the meticulous crafting of streamers that mimic wounded baitfish with uncanny realism. Listeners will glean insights into the challenges of presenting flies in the rapid-filled shoal habitats and the tactics that can turn a bright, clear day into a showcase of aggressive topwater strikes.
As the conversation ebbs and flows, Fletcher opens up about his day job as the executive director of the Altamaha Riverkeeper, highlighting the triumphs and trials of environmental advocacy and the exciting prospects of establishing Georgia's first national park.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or an aspiring conservationist, this episode is a masterclass in the art of fly fishing and the importance of stewardship. So, pull up a chair, tune in and let Fletcher's stories and expertise inspire your next adventure on the water.
Support the Altamaha Riverkeeper
The Chocklett Factory Comes to Charlotte!
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Helpful Episode Chapters
0:00 Introduction
8:17 Chasing Edge Species
13:21 Understanding Shoal Bass
22:08 Other Species of Interest
25:00 Interest in Tying Flies
27:57 Influential Fly Tiers
32:08 Fly Tying Techniques
33:40 Notable Fly Patterns
37:09 Tweaker Modification
38:46 Fishing Techniques
41:40 Unique Flies for Shoal Bass
46:32 The Quack Head
50:25 Swimbo Fly
54:44 Simplified Fly Selection
57:55 The Altamaha Riverkeeper
1:03:34 Current Watershed Challenges

Join host Marvin Cash as he casts into the heart of East Tennessee's fishing scene with local guide Ellis Ward on The Articulate Fly. As spring rains swell the streams, Marvin and Ellis discuss the thrill of dry fly action on the horizon. With the Watauga River's caddis hatch coming soon and gusty forecasts challenging anglers, Ellis shares his on-the-water experiences and the anticipation of aquatic acrobatics from eager trout.
Despite the challenging conditions, Ellis remains optimistic, offering wisdom on streamer strategies during low water periods and the importance of confidence in your pattern choice. He emphasizes the power of a well-placed cast and the mental game of anticipating the strike, blending art with technique to entice wary brown trout from their lairs.
As more anglers and recreationalists flock to the rivers with warmer weather, Ellis provides invaluable advice on adapting to increased fishing pressure. He suggests leaning into your go-to flies, exploring under-fished waters and even downsizing to more subtle presentations to outsmart educated fish.
Ready to elevate your game or book a transformative day on the water with Ellis? Find out how to connect and uncover the secrets to East Tennessee's vibrant fishing opportunities. So grab your gear, heed the call of the hatch and let the river's rhythms guide you to your next unforgettable catch.
Tight lines await on the other side of the storm—don't miss out on the action.
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Dive into the refreshing currents of early spring with host Marvin Cash and fly fishing virtuoso Mac Brown in the latest episode of The Articulate Fly. As the trees bud and the rivers swell, Mac shares his insights on the bustling hatch activity in Western North Carolina. With midday and evening waters teeming with life, he guides listeners through the prime time for dry fly and wet fly fishing, revealing the simplicity behind successful fly selection amidst the frenzy of the spring hatch.
Mac demystifies the overcomplicated world of fly choice, advocating for a straightforward approach that focuses on size, shape and color that's "even close." He shares anecdotes and experiments that underscore the opportunistic nature of Eastern trout, proving that sometimes, the right action trumps the perfect imitation.
As the conversation meanders like a mountain stream, Marvin and Mac discuss the importance of matching your fly's behavior to the natural movements of insects, especially in the gusty winds of spring. They suggest a handful of versatile patterns like the elk hair caddis, parachute Adams and the buoyant Humpy, which are all you need to cover your bases in the freestone rivers of their region.
Mac also highlights his upcoming casting school and invites anglers to join him for a transformative weekend of advanced line control techniques. As the episode draws to a close, the gentle reminder that the great outdoors is beckoning is coupled with the promise of tight lines and the thrill of the catch.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or looking to cast your first line, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom that will help you navigate the vibrant waters of spring. So grab your rod, heed the call of the hatch and let the river's song lead you to your next great adventure.
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Join host Marvin Cash as he checks in with George Costa of TCO Fly Shop in State College for the latest central PA fishing scoop on The Articulate Fly. George, brimming with post-Easter candy enthusiasm, shares the challenging conditions anglers face with streams at or above flood stage. Despite the deluge, there's an undercurrent of optimism as they anticipate the return of good hatches, with olives and grannoms making strong appearances before the rains.
George predicts a potential for streamer action by late weekend, with hopes for dry fly activity as the weather warms up in the coming week. The conversation then flows into shop talk, highlighting new inventory ready for spring, including exciting fly patterns, the latest Scott rods and the new Grundens wader line-up.
For those bitten by the fly fishing bug or just "fly curious," George points out TCO's educational offerings, from beginner to advanced classes, perfect for expanding your angling horizons. And remember, questions are always welcome on The Articulate Fly; send them in for a chance to win some swag and get entered into a drawing for cool shop gear.
So, as the waters recede, gear up for the season's opportunities. Stay tuned, stay prepared and, as always, tight lines!
Support the Show
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Follow TCO on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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