With over forty years of experience fly fishing the world, Jeff (@jeffcurrier65) has quite possibly fished more countries and caught more species on a fly rod than any person alive. He’s an active lecturer, published author, a well-known artist, and the subject of numerous films, articles, and media projects. Jeff is constantly traveling and developing new techniques for catching the most exotic fish imaginable in places where even the most avid adventurers are hesitant to go. An IGFA World Record holder, Jeff has fished in over 55 countries and caught over 430 species of fish on a fly.Â
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Rapid Fire Questions
What are a couple of tips you give destination traveling anglers?
TIP #1
“For international trips, I never try to carry on my rods, reels or flies. Overseas TSA-type entities are too unreliable and unpredictable when it comes to carrying these items through security, and I once missed a connecting flight in Paris trying to re-check my rod tubes. I always pack all tackle in my checked luggage. If I’m nervous about too many connections, I’ll split my stuff into two bags so that if one bag doesn’t show I’m still in good shape. Remember that reel handles can break in your checked luggage. Pad them well. I line them up with the handles facing each other and either wrap them in clothes or put them in a padded reel case.”
TIP #2
“Take a lot of photos. Great photos are the ultimate souvenir from any trip. They don’t cost anything, they’re easy to share with others, and they don’t take up space in your luggage. When taking photos, be sure to wake up early. It’s the very best time for photos due to the soft and warm morning light. It’s also a good time to interact with locals, and sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning!”Â
What types of fly fishing experiences do you enjoy?
“I especially enjoy being challenged in fly fishing. I love figuring out how to catch fish on an unfamiliar new piece of water or trying to catch a species of fish I’ve never caught before.”
If you had a post-fishing drink named after you, what would it be?
“The ‘Currier Would Cast’ India Pale Ale”
What are a few pieces of gear that you never leave home without?
“Sinking lines, pliers, Chernobyl Ants, insect repellent, buff, and chocolate!”
What are Your Favorite Fly Fishing Destinations?
“Everyone needs to see the Amazon. There are so many trip options here as well as different species to catch. With that in mind, I suggest two – Bolivia for the golden dorado and Kendjam for the numerous species including peacock bass. And if you enjoy your trip to the South American rainforests, then you for sure need to catch a tigerfish in Tanzania. For those saltwater enthusiasts, fishing is indeed unreal in the Caribbean, but if you haven’t hit the Indian Ocean yet, it’s time for the Seychelles. Hands down the best saltwater fly fishing I have ever experienced.”
What are trips that are on your bucket list?
“The Congo for goliath tigerfish is hands down on the top of my list. Perhaps more so is the upcoming gig in the Central African Republic for goliath tigerfish and Nile perch. Others on my list are Ponoi River in Russia, Exmouth Australia, and I would love to return on an extended trip to Mongolia!”
Why Fly Fishing Destination Travel?
“Fly fishing travel is what keeps the sport we love continuously interesting. If you fish in the same water for the rest of your life, it’s possible you could become somewhat bored. I certainly like to mix it up. Travel adds new places, new fish, and most importantly, new fishing challenges which make you better at fly fishing.”
What's new in Jeff's world?
“Yeah, there’s some big news. My wife Granny and I have left the Yellowstone area after living there for 34 years. We absolutely loved our time there and honestly, our home in Victor was one of the coolest places you could live. But it was time for a change. We are headed back to where we met, Wisconsin. On May 9th we closed on a house in Hayward, WI and we will be officially living there in June. We are going to miss our friends and the Henry’s Fork a ton but at the same time, we have lots of WI friends to rejoin and some amazing new fishing to enjoy!”
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