As spey anglers, we are often most focused on the cast. And why not, spey casting is an enjoyable, engaging process. Sure, it can be frustrating, but those drawn to this sport are typically energized by the challenge as well as the tactical advantage of a cast that allows for ultimate efficiency in … Become […]
Icons – Rick Kustich
Icons, a web series from Swing the Fly, looks at the most influential figures in spey casting and swinging flies from North America and beyond in the 21st century. In this installment we visit with Rick Kustich, a pioneer of swinging flies in the Great Lakes region, an author of multiple flyfishing books, and a huge fan […]
Great Lakes Run Timing
Understanding the nuances of when and how the various species migrate on Great Lakes rivers can directly impact the quality of the fishing experience.
Playing in the Mud
Rick Kustich gives us hope when the water turns muddy. Check out this article and perhaps you will have new strategies when other fly fishers are staying at home.
Two-Handed Overhead Casting for Musky
For a number of years before I took to the two-hander for musky, my fishing partner Nick Pionessa utilized two hand casting to effectively deliver big flies in a range of wind and weather conditions. After hanging on to the single-hand approach for too many years, I finally saw the light and moved to two-handed casting. And I will never go back.
Adding Movement to the Swung Fly
Controlling fly speed and depth through casting angle and line manipulation typically provides the presentation enhancements that result in success.
Spey Casting Class with Rick Kustich & Topher Browne!
Don’t miss this one of a kind opportunity to improve your casting with Rick and Topher!
Outfitters North
“It’s great to see the fly fishing community putting more of a focus on us as Great Lakes steelheaders and designing these products for the way we fish our Great Lakes streams and rivers.”
Sink-Tip Leaders
How long should the distance be between the end of the sinking tip or sinking leader and the fly?
Book: Matching Baitfish by Kevin Feenstra
Matching Baitfish is so much more than what the title lets on. In fact, I’m not sure any title could do justice to what lies within: incredible photography, an education on baitfish you won’t find in a lifetime elsewhere, innovative techniques and tactics for the swung fly angler, and one of a kind fly patterns.
Webinar: Getting Ready for Great Lakes Spring Steelhead
Watch the great recorded presentation by Rick Kustich here!
Down and Dirty
“I call this scenario the “Down and Dirty.” If you can wade the river safely without going for a swim, you can still hook steelhead on the swung fly. The first thing you will need to do is change your gear. You’re going to need to fish the fly as slow as you can and closer to the bottom. The water is cold and dirty, hanging that fly in front of their face is crucial. Teasing the fish with a slower swing in these conditions is the best way to get that tug.” -Jeff Hubbard