Fly Tying Talk, with Charlie Craven

Fly Tying Talk, with Charlie Craven

Author: Tom Rosenbauer, The Orvis Company March 23, 2026 Duration: 1:31:59

I have been meaning to get Charlie Craven [37:41] of Charlie's Fly Box in Denver on the podcast for quite some time and we finally connected. Charlie talks about what new materials and tools excite him and also how to approach the topic of assembling essential materials for the beginning fly tier. We also explore some other topics as only a couple of geeky fly tiers can when given the chance.

In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions and tips from listeners, including:
I have been using a clear floating line for sight fishing for striped bass but noticed the fish sometimes shy away from the fly. Do you think this is because the clear line reflects too much sunlight?
A tip from a listener on another way of taking fishing photos without risking losing your valuable smartphone in the water.
My leader lands in a pile when I am casting. But you say that sometimes you want your leader to land in loose coils. Is it too much to expect my leader to fully straighten?
Advice from bamboo rod guru Shawn Brillon on cleaning cork grips.
I was using mouse flies at night and got strikes but could not connect. What did I do wrong?
Is it true that you can shine a red flashlight at night to see your fly because the fish won't notice it?
Is it worth it to go from a mid-priced fly-tying vise to a really expensive one? What do you get in a $500 vise?
What is your take on using non-standard, "buggy" variations on standard fly proportions?
Is the Double Davy Knot stronger than an Improved Clinch Knot?


For anyone who’s ever felt the tug of a line or wondered about the quiet rhythm of a river, The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast is a steady companion. Host Tom Rosenbauer, a well-known author and the voice behind this series for The Orvis Company, doesn’t just offer tips; he shares a lifetime of curiosity spent on the water. Each week, the conversation unfolds like a guidebook coming to life, covering the tangible skills and the subtle philosophies that define fly-fishing. You’ll hear practical advice on technique and gear, certainly, but also deeper discussions about conservation, reading different waters, and understanding fish behavior. It’s that blend of straightforward education and reflective storytelling that makes this podcast unique. Whether you’re planning your first cast or have decades of experience, the aim is the same: to make your hours by the stream more thoughtful and rewarding. Tune in for a mix of solo episodes from Tom and interviews with other anglers, all grounded in a genuine passion for the sport and the wilderness it depends on. This is more than a series of lessons; it’s an ongoing dialogue for anyone who finds solace and challenge in fly-fishing.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Orvis Fly-Fishing Podcast
Podcast Episodes
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