About this episode
This week, my guest is Orvis product developer Jesse Haller [43:48], who besides being responsible for products like nets, wading shoes, and fishing packs and vests spent many years as a fishing guide. Jesse discusses how to pick the right net, some cool tips and carrying a net, how to plan your netting before you get a fish close to you, how to get the fish in the net with a minimum of fuss—and some great tips on releasing the fish you've caught. In the Fly Box this week, we have some fascinating questions and some helpful tips from listeners, including: Do you think it's a good idea to blacken your tippet close to the fly with a sharpie? What conditions decide whether you should fish a large or a small streamer for bass? A listener has a conundrum about booking a guide who used to work for another outfitter. Some great tips from a listener about safety when bluelining in the Smokies. What advice do you have for fishing out of a canoe? I have trouble finding trout in larger rivers, coming from a small stream background. What should I do? Where can I find trout in winter? What should I do about families with kids throwing rocks in the water when I am fishing? How can I fish small midge emergers just under the surface? During a heavy hatch, is it better to look for an individual fish or prospect a likely seam or run? A great tip on a device for letting people know where you are when fishing the back country. If I am running multiple midge nymphs, should I use a light or heavy tippet? What is the best beginner outfit for saltwater fly fishing?