Interview with Enrico Puglisi
Enrico Puglisi’s (@epflies) innovative products are making a major impact on the future direction of salt and freshwater fly fishing. His unique hand-tied flies are recognized around the world, and he has been invited to demonstrate his meticulous tying techniques across the United States and Europe. All of his patterns are designed to match specific baitfish, shrimp, crabs, and freshwater insects and to be eminently fishable.
Rapid Fire Questions
What types of fly fishing experiences do you enjoy?
“As I was born and raised by the Mediterranean Sea, I have saltwater fishing in my blood, but I also enjoy being in the river away from the crowds. I love putting my feet in cold running water and listening to the sounds of nature. I concentrate on the rising trout and figure out how to convince them to take my fake bugs. Whether I’m fishing in the Catskills or Tierra del Fuego, I make sure good food, wine, and a cigar are part of the experience. After working hard for over thirty years in the fly fishing industry I try to spend as much time relaxing in nature as possible.”
If you had a post-fishing cocktail named after you, what would it be?
“I’m not really a cocktail guy! Normally I finish a long day of fishing with a glass of wine but recently my family and I have been working on a cocktail menu for our guest house, Casa Clorinda in Campeche, Mexico. We’ve had fun naming the cocktails after all things EP Flies like Thunderstruck Spritz and Grey Ghost Gimlet. We really wanted to name something Peanut Butter but it didn’t feel right for a cocktail- maybe we’ll put a Peanut Butter smoothie on the breakfast menu.”
What are a few pieces of gear that you never leave home without?
“If I go for a freshwater trip, I make sure I have a very good pair of waders and very comfortable pairs of boots. If I go for a saltwater trip, I make sure to bring protective clothing for the sun and nothing less than two good pairs of sunglasses.”
What is one of your greatest fly fishing travel memories?
“I truly don’t have one. Every single trip I’ve taken is special to me. A fishing destination doesn’t consist of just the fish you are planning to catch but the “whole enchilada.” Getting to know new places, and learning about people and their cultures has been incredible. I treasure every place I’ve visited.”
What are Your Favorite Fly Fishing Destinations?
“Obviously, tarpon fishing in Campeche, Mexico but outside of that, Alaska for sure. The diversity of that region is unique and different from any others I have visited. There is so much to discover in Alaska that probably a lifetime is not enough.”
What are trips that are on your bucket list?
“This is a tough one! I still have a few places on my bucket list. Iceland is at the top of my list.”
Why Fly Fishing Destination Travel?
“To me, it’s all about having the opportunity to visit new places in the world. No matter how many fish I catch I’m always grateful for the experience.”
What's New with Enrico?
“So much! I always thought by this age I would slow down but my passion for this business keeps me going.
The past couple of years while travel wasn’t an option, I spent a lot more time fishing in local freshwater. Being at home really gave me an opportunity to focus on the life cycle of bugs that freshwater fish eat and I was able to make big improvements to EP’s trout line.
When I am not in New York I’m at Casa, Clorinda, my home turned lodge in Campeche, Mexico. Campeche is a region close to my heart where I have been fishing tarpon for over a decade. Opening a lodge has been a dream of mine and I couldn’t think of a better place in the world to do it. I’m so excited to share my home with other anglers and for them to experience the magic of Campeche.”