In this captivating episode of Mending on the Fly, Devin sits down with Brian Smith, the mastermind behind the wildly popular fly tying social media accounts @_TiesFlies_" and TheFliesmith.co. Brian shares his incredible journey from tattoo artist to fly tying sensation, amassing a dedicated following of over 100,000 on each platform in just a year. Discover the secrets behind his mesmerizing fly tying videos, his passion for sharing the art with others, and how he turned his newfound hobby into a thriving business. Brian's inspiring story is a testament to the power of dedication, creativity, and the therapeutic nature of fly fishing and tying. Join us as we dive deep into Brian's world and explore his plans for the future of the fly tying community.

Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction to Brian Smith and his social media success
05:00 - Brian's background as a tattoo artist and chef
08:00 - How a fishing trip with a neighbor sparked Brian's passion for fly tying
15:00 - Brian's love for working with latex in fly tying
20:00 - The challenges and rewards of tying realistic flies
24:00 - Brian's research process and the importance of international fly tying forums
28:00 - Plans for a fly tying guild and engaging the younger generation
32:00 - The truth about being on a "pro team" in the fly tying industry
35:00 - How fly tying helps Brian manage anxiety and stress
40:00 - The therapeutic nature of fly fishing and organizations supporting recovery
44:00 - Closing thoughts and how to follow Brian's journey

Find Brian on Instagram: @_tiesflies_

Join us in this engaging episode of "Mending on the Fly" as we sit down with Tim Cammisa, a renowned figure in the fly fishing community. Tim shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming an influential educator and innovator in the sport. Discover essential tips for fly tying, the importance of a strip set, and the thrill of fishing in unique locations like Iceland. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, Tim's insights and stories will inspire and educate you.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment on what you found most interesting in this episode! Follow Tim on his social media platforms for more tips and updates.

• Trout and Feather Website
• Tim Cammisa on YouTube
• Follow Tim on Instagram

Timestamps:

• [0:00] Introduction to Tim Cammisa
• [2:00] Getting Started with Fly Tying: Tools and Budget
• [10:00] The Importance of the Strip Set in Fly Fishing
• [18:00] Fly Fishing in Iceland: A Magical Destination
• [28:00] Tim’s Background and Love for the Outdoors
• [39:00] Memorable Fishing Experiences and Lessons Learned
• [50:00] Tim’s Book and Insights on Competitive Fly Fishing
• [1:02:00] Virtual Fly Tying Classes and Community Engagement
• [1:06:00] Tim’s Top Confidence Flies for Brookies
• [1:07:00] Closing Thoughts and How to Follow Tim Online

In this enlightening episode, Devin sits down with Scott Lowe, a devoted environmental scientist, author, and fly fishing enthusiast. Scott discusses his journey through the serene world of fly fishing, which serves as his personal escape and complements his professional life as a fluvial geomorphologist. From his reflections in his novel, "The Mend," to his deep connection with nature, Scott shares how the art of fly fishing parallels his experiences with grief, renewal, and environmental conservation. Dive into a conversation that flows as smoothly as the rivers Scott cherishes, revealing insights into his life's scientific and poetic dimensions.

Join us as Scott Lowe shares his profound connection between the quiet rivers he fishes and his life as an environmental scientist. Scott's unique perspective enriches our understanding of ecological dynamics and personal healing through the meditative art of fly fishing. His stories of personal rediscovery against riverbanks provide a backdrop for a broader discussion on ecological conservation and the intricate relationship between nature and human experience.