The Backstage Pass

There are countless effective bonefish flies out there, each with its time and place. Here, we've put together a collection of staple patterns that are proven across a range of global fisheries. Some of these flies have been fooling bonefish for over half a century and remain reliable anywhere the species is found....

The 7-Weight: The Perfect Middle-Ground Rod for Fly Fishing There’s a sweet spot in the fly rod lineup that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves: the 7-weight. Heavier than your standard trout rod but lighter than dedicated saltwater and big predator rods, the 7-weight is a versatile tool that bridges two worlds....

The 6-Weight Fly Rod: A Must Have Rod for Freshwater It is a tough debate about the best "all around" trout rod between a 5-weight and a 6-weight, and while there is no definitive answer, the best approach is to simply ask yourself where are you going to be using it. A 5-weight...

During early February 2025, I was able to pull off a last-minute trip to the Ascension Bay region of Mexico. Ascension Bay is a beautiful and quant area of Mexico know for it’s world class fishing and small local communities. Although we recommend anglers book far in advance, this location also offers a...

Why You Need a 10-Weight Fly Rod When you’re stepping up to a 10-weight fly rod, you’re playing in the big leagues. This isn’t your everyday trout setup—this is the tool for battling heavy-hitting fish, slinging big flies, and punching through gusty winds. Whether chasing tarpon in the Caribbean, bull redfish in Louisiana,...

Is there a more dynamic "heavy" fly rod than the 9-weight? Whether you're targeting aggressive saltwater species, powerful freshwater predators, or fishing in challenging conditions, a 9-weight rod often proves indispensable. In this article, we’ll explore the general uses of a 9-weight rod, when to choose one over other rod sizes, and the...