Episodes

We’re back on the Pelican for Part 2 of our Chandeleur adventure! In this episode, we swap even more wild stories from the trip—including friends getting stuck out in the dark and the unforgettable moment someone caught a gator on the fly. Along the way, we talk about the importance of saying yes to adventure, making memories that last, and taking the time to do something unforgettable with the people who matter most. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get out there and create your own stories...

We’re on location aboard the Pelican at the Chandeleur Islands, joined by some incredible men who made this unforgettable trip with us. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we sit down with Jason Cook and Tyler Hudgins to share stories from the water, the camaraderie that makes these trips so meaningful, and what it was like to ride out a storm on our very first morning. This episode captures the raw, real moments of fishing life—wind, waves, and all—and gives you a glimpse into the powerful conne...

In this episode of Dads On The Fly , we sit down with Will Bradley from Turtlebox Audio to talk about all the exciting new products hitting the market, including The Grande and The Ranger . Will shares insights on Turtlebox's nationwide expansion, what it’s like to build a business with close friends, and how the company stays true to its mission of helping people "Live Free." Whether you're a longtime fan of Turtlebox or just love great gear that enhances outdoor adventures, this conversation i...

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Fitts—an angler, outdoorsman, and brand-new dad. We dive into his journey of navigating fatherhood while staying connected to his passion for fishing. Matt shares his love for chasing redfish in the Charleston area, especially the thrill of targeting tailing reds during flood tides. We also explore what it means for him to "keep God at the bow" and how faith plays a role in both fishing and family life. Check out Matt on Instagram: @mattfitts_ And don’t mis...

In this episode, we sit down with Dan and Tom Harrison of Harrison Anglers to explore the hidden gems of fly fishing in Western Massachusetts. Once written off due to industrial-era damage, these rivers are now thriving fisheries—thanks in part to the Harrisons’ relentless passion for exploration. From their early guiding days in Montana and Patagonia to pioneering drift boat access in New England, they’ve helped change the perception of Northeast fly fishing. We talk about their journey, their ...

In this episode, we welcome back Doug McElvy of Mountain Fly Outfitters for an inspiring conversation about his journey in fly fishing and the power of community. Doug shares the vision behind his new fly shop—more than just a retail space, it’s a gathering place for anglers, featuring a taproom, live music, and a welcoming outdoor space. But beyond the shop, we dive deep into the incredible resilience of Western NC in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Doug has been on the frontlines, working w...

In this episode of Dads On The Fly , we welcome back Hunter Leavine for an inspiring conversation about his latest adventures. Hunter updates us on his work with the Captain’s Collective and shares the exciting story behind his new venture, The Drifter Fish Club . We also dive deep into the challenges of balancing family time with the demands of a busy life. Hunter shares how he stays intentional with his family, and we discuss the importance of not comparing your normal to someone else’s. Wheth...

In this episode, we kick off 2025 by reflecting on the importance of letting our kids take the lead in exploring their own interests. While we often talk about getting our kids involved in fly fishing and our passions, this episode, we’re flipping the script. Foster’s newfound love for spin and conventional fishing has inspired Joshua to embrace a whole new world. Meanwhile, Caleb's son Reid's journey has taken him down the unexpected path of learning to play chess. We share stories, challenges,...

As the year winds down, we reflect on some of the most memorable episodes and incredible trips from 2024. From casting flies in new waters to sharing unforgettable stories with fellow dads, this year has been one for the books. Plus, we share exciting plans for the future of Dads on the Fly in 2025. Join us for a look back and a glimpse ahead! Want more content? Check out the patreon and help support Dads On The Fly: https://www.patreon.com/dadsonthefly Find Dads On The Fly online and sign up fo...

In this episode of Dads On The Fly , we sit down with Peter Kaple, also known as The Skiff Wanderer . Peter shares his inspiring journey into the world of fly fishing, including how he taught himself the craft after moving to Corpus Christi, TX, and his experience of owning his first skiff. Beyond fishing, we dive into his entrepreneurial ventures—Reel Fishing Roasters, a coffee company dedicated to anglers, and KP Laser Works, his creative laser engraving business. Follow Peter’s adventures and...

In this episode, Jacob Rash joins us to discuss the future of trout fisheries in Western North Carolina following the horrific flooding from hurricane Helene. Jacob is the cold water research specialist for NC Wildlife and has been with us before on the podcast, but this time he joins us to answer all of our questions about what the flooding has done to trout in our area. We also discuss what NC Wildlife is doing to research and learn more about how the fish in our area have faired from the stor...

In this episode, we take the time to update everyone on the situation in Western North Carolina as we have all been impacted by Hurricane Helene and the extensive flooding that took place in our region. We’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of support that you all have given to us as our parents have lost almost everything in the flood. We’re in the midst of serving our local community and helping our neighbors, but wanted to take this opportunity to give a brief update on how we are doing and ho...

In this episode, Tom Wetherington joins us for a conversation all about Temple Fork Outfitters and their high quality rods. We hear about Tom's story of getting into fly fishing and how working for TFO has been such an incredible experience as he gets to present great products at price points for people like us. He's also gotten the opportunity to fish with some great anglers and learned a lot along the way. We also talk about his new journey into fatherhood in the last year and the blessings he...

In this episode we speak with Caleb Snead of Rambler Angler and Blade Company. The Rambler brand began last year as the new fly fishing, blade, and adventure arm of what was formerly Wolf Indiana LLC. They've been making quality tying vises and tools since the 90s and they're taking that expertise to continue to make high quality tools tailored specifically to the fly fisherman. The Rambler mission is to provide hardworking people with top-notch, professional knives, scissors, tools, and America...

In this episode, Joshua and Caleb take some time to reflect on the summer of 2024. With school starting back we thought it was a good idea to take some time to reflect on this past summer and the time spent with our families. We hope this inspires you to do the same. Want more content? Check out the patreon and help support Dads On The Fly: https://www.patreon.com/dadsonthefly Find Dads On The Fly online and sign up for our newsletter at https://www.dadsonthefly.com/ Check out our sponsors: http...

In this episode, Joshua and Caleb speak with Mike Schultz of Shultz Outfitters in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Mike, or "Schultzy" as he is known to most, has lived in southern Michigan for most of his life where he has logged countless hours on the water. This experience on the water has led him to open and operate the most successful outfitter and guide service in southern Michigan. While Mike has experience chasing many species, his specialty is smallmouth bass. In this conversation we hear all about...

In this episode we recap our recent smallmouth fishing trip on the James river in Virginia. We took a long a great buddy Matthew Carter of Mt. Yonder Fly Fishing to explore a new section of water and try to find the smallmouth we've been chasing for a couple of years now. We discuss finding big smallmouth, catching our PB's, and exploring the beautiful area on the upper reaches of the James River. Check out Mt. Yonder Fly Fishing and book a great guided trip today: https://www.mtyonder.com/ In t...

In this episode, we come to you on location from Wesley Hodges Fly Fishing lodge in Eagle Rock, VA. This past weekend Joshua and Caleb got to spend two nights at Wes' lodge and glamping tents and spent two days floating and fishing the James River for smallmouth bass. It was an epic weekend. This episode is part 1 where we interview Wes all about his lodge and the outdoor experiences that Virginia has to offer. We also hear more about his experience in falling in love with the outdoors and now b...

In this episode we sit down with expert fly designer Blane Chocklett. Blane is well known for the game changer fly as well as many others. In this episode we chronicle his life in fly fishing and the development of the game changer, as well as one of the most game changing moment in his life when his family adopted his son, Tyler. Find Blane online: https://www.blanechocklett.com/ Game Changer Book: https://a.co/d/01AK36fg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blanechocklettfishing “The Ties That...

In this episode, we sit down with several guests from the Maggie Valley Fly Fishing and Outdoor Festival. We kick the episode off with the family of Scottie Finanger the lead creator at Wild Fly Productions. His dad Dan and uncle Scott discuss with us the joy of watching someone you love succeed. See more from Wild Fly and the film with uncle Scott: https://youtu.be/3WhBqt8iopc?si=gwgrkFIc-07BOn0o Then we have multiple short interviews with the following: Preston Jacobsen of Haywood Waterways As...

In this episode, we chat with Javier Fabrega of Marsh Sessions. Javier is a father of three that escapes to saltwater every chance he gets to chase redfish and other species in Northeast Florida. Growing up in the Republic of Panama, Javier has a deep connection to the ocean, but it wasn't until 2015, in Jacksonville Beach, FL, that he discovered the world of fly fishing. He was drawn to the welcoming and passionate fly fishing community, and has since started Marsh Sessions where he highlights ...

In this episode, we chat about how we fly fish in the summer months. Summer fishing for trout can be difficult in North Carolina as water temperatures rise. We discuss how we approach trout fishing and how we chase other species during the summer months. We also take some time to discuss some future summer fishing trips and plans with our families for the precious time we get together with them during the summer. Mentioned in this episode: NC Delayed Harvest Waters: https://www.ncwildlife.org/Co...

David Coggins is a New York Times best-selling author and fly fishing enthusiast. He writes for several publications, his substack, and has written two fly fishing books. In this episode, we chat with David about his most recent book, "The Believer: A Year In The Fly Fishing Life." In this book, David recounts a year of traveling the world searching for some of the most incredible fish species to chase with a fly rod. With his humorous approach, he shares about the cultures he experienced and ne...

In this episode, Joshua sits down with Dr. Bryan Gill and recaps a fun adventure in the creek with their kids and then tells us all about his new book "Jesus Is: A 31 Day Devotional On The "I Am" Statements of Jesus." Hear more about Byran, Brad, and The Storied Outdoors in our past interview with them: https://tinyurl.com/3j6x2vyx Hear Joshua and Caleb on "The Storied Outdoors:" https://www.thestoriedoutdoors.com/interviews/dads-on-the-fly-podcast Purchase "Jesus Is" by Dr. Bryan Gill: https://...