In this episode, we dig into one of our favorite summer tactics: sight fishing. From salt to fresh, we talk through how we slow down, observe, and turn “hunt mode” on—so we’re not just casting at water, we’re casting at fish. Along the way, we share a quick story about post‑storm scum lines turning on, the calm mindset that helps you make the shot, and a few simple prep habits that keep you from blowing it when a big one finally slides into range.
Key Highlights:
- Where sight fishing shines: dries, streamers, nymphs, and even crustaceans—in fresh or salt—whenever water clarity gives you a window. It’s fishing that feels like hunting.
- See first, cast second: polarized lenses are non‑negotiable; match lens color to conditions and revisit our sunglasses deep‑dive in Episode 48 for more.
- Gain elevation and “play not‑a‑fish”: get higher to look down into the water; rule out rocks, logs, and shadows until the fish reveals itself.
- Reading the pattern: after a summer storm, fish slid two to three feet under the surface and rose softly along narrow scum lines—hovering, ghosting, then reappearing. We slowed the boat, watched, and planned the shot.
- Stealth and patience win: no clanks, no splashes, and don’t rush the cast. If a fish ghosts, rest it—it’ll often return to the feed.
- Line management that matters: strip off enough line before your first cast so you’re not coming up short and educating fish.
- Calm execution: breathe, relax, and wait for the eat—then set. Think marksman: exhale before the trigger.
- Flies and behavior: summer fish may sip small dries or smash hoppers; watch caddis and sulfur activity to decide whether to drift, skate, or skitter.
- Salt notes: redfish often tolerate a closer shot; in peak heat we still default to stealth—and good glasses.
- Final checks before the shot: tie on your best bug for the moment, inspect knots and tippet, and have the line laid out so you can reach‑cast and mend as needed.
We’re also kicking off a giveaway: one listener will win a TFO fly rod of their choice via a gift certificate—drawing from our newsletter list. To enter, subscribe using the link in these show notes or at SoutheasternFly.com. Thanks to Peter Jordan and TFO for making this possible.
Listen in, then go fish—and if this episode helps you spot (and stick) a few more this summer, we’d love a follow and a positive review. See you on the water.
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Produced by NOVA
