The thestillwateredge’s Podcast

"Mastering Deep Water Tactics: Catching Trout at 20, 30, and 40 Feet"

Episode 12: How to Effectively Fish Deep Water for Trout
Welcome back to The Stillwater Edge! Today, we’re unlocking the secrets to deep water fly fishing—how to catch trout at 20, 30, even 40 feet down.
Fishing deep water requires patience, the right gear, and strategic presentations. In this episode, I’ll cover:✔ Why trout move to deep water✔ The gear you need to reach them✔ How to control depth and keep your flies in the strike zone✔ The best fly patterns and retrieves for deep water
If you want to consistently catch trout in deeper zones, this episode will help you develop the right skills and techniques to do it effectively.
Key Takeaways:
Why Do Trout Move to Deep Water?
Cooler Water – Trout thrive in cold water, and as surface temps rise, they seek the thermocline at deeper levels.
Oxygen-Rich Zones – Deep water provides more stable oxygen levels, especially during warm months.
Food Sources – Trout still find plenty to eat, including zooplankton, chironomids, scuds, leeches, and baitfish.
Protection from Predators – Staying deep keeps trout safe from loons, eagles, and other threats.
The Right Gear for Deep Water Success
✔ Full Sink Fly Line – A must-have for reaching depths of 20 to 40+ feet. Choose a Type 3 to Type 7 sinking line based on how fast you need to get down.✔ Short Leaders (4–9 feet) – A shorter leader keeps your fly in the strike zone and allows better strike detection.✔ Weighted and Unweighted Flies – Full sink lines will drag unweighted patterns like scuds and leeches down to feeding depth.
How to Get Your Fly to the Right Depth
✔ Use a Depth Sounder (If Available) – Mark fish holding near the bottom and adjust your countdown method.✔ Countdown System (Without a Sounder) – A simple method: 10 seconds = 1 foot down. If fish are at 40 feet, count to 40 before retrieving.✔ Keep Your Fly in the Strike Zone – Slow retrieves help keep your fly at depth longer, increasing your chances of a strike.
Best Flies for Deep Water Trout
🎯 Proven Patterns:✔ Chronomids (Unweighted & Beadhead) – Fish slow and deep using a steady retrieve.✔ Leeches & Boobies – A deadly searching pattern in deep water.✔ Baitfish Streamers & Woolly Buggers – Great for aggressive trout chasing baitfish.✔ Washing Line Rig (Advanced Technique) – Perfect for suspending flies at different depths.
How to Retrieve Flies in Deep Water
✔ Slow, Steady Retrieves – Mimics natural movement of leeches and pupae.✔ Short Strips (2–4 inches) – A great way to work scuds, blobs, and leeches along the bottom.✔ Roly Poly Retrieve – A faster, aggressive retrieve for triggering strikes from chasing trout.
Call to Action (CTA):
Fishing deep water is a skill that takes patience, but the payoff is big fish that most anglers miss.
Try these deep water tactics and let me know how they work for you!
What’s your go-to deep water fly? DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) and share your success.
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge so you never miss an episode.
Leave a review and tell me what topics you want to hear next!
Episode Outro:
That’s a wrap for today’s episode! Deep water fly fishing isn’t just about casting and hoping—it’s about understanding where trout hold, using the right gear, and dialing in your retrieve.
With the right setup and a bit of patience, you’ll unlock a whole new world of Stillwater fishing.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge). I’d love to hear about your deep water fishing experiences and what’s working for you.
Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!

"Cracking the Code: Fly Fishing Success During Ice-Off and Spring Turnover"

how Notes:
Episode 11: Fishing the Ice-Off and Spring Turnover Period
Welcome back to The Stillwater Edge! Today, we’re tackling one of the most frustrating yet rewarding times of year for Stillwater anglers—spring turnover and ice-off.
When the ice melts, the lake completely resets, leading to murky water, scattered fish, and unpredictable bites. But with the right knowledge and tactics, you can turn this challenging time into some of the best fishing of the season.
In this episode, we’ll cover:✔ What spring turnover is and why it affects fish behavior✔ The three biggest challenges anglers face during ice-off✔ Where to find fish when everything seems scattered✔ The best fly patterns and techniques for success
If you’ve ever struggled with slow fish, cold water, and murky conditions, this episode will give you the game plan you need to adjust and start catching more fish.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Spring Turnover
What is it? When ice melts, the lake mixes from top to bottom, disrupting oxygen levels, fish locations, and food sources.
Why does it matter? Fish that were deep in winter now scatter, making them harder to locate.
What does this mean for anglers? You must target oxygen-rich areas and adjust your presentation.
Challenges During Ice-Off and How to Overcome Them
✔ Scattered Fish – Trout aren’t concentrated in one area, so finding them takes strategy and patience.✔ Cold Water & Slow Metabolism – Fish are sluggish, meaning slow presentations work best.✔ Murky Water & Low Visibility – Trout rely more on vibration and movement than sight, so fly selection is key.
How to Find Fish During Spring Turnover
💡 Focus on Oxygen-Rich Areas
Shallow bays – Warm faster, bringing fish in.
Inlets & creek mouths – Fresh water increases oxygen levels.
Wind-blown shores – Wind pushes food and oxygen toward these areas.
Drop-offs near shallow zones – Fish move between depths throughout the day.
Best Flies for Ice-Off Fishing
🎯 Early Season Go-To Patterns:✔ Tiny Chronomids & Bloodworms (Size 18-20) – Fish them under an indicator with slow, static presentations.✔ Scuds & Leeches – Slow hand-twist retrieve near the bottom.✔ Woolly Buggers & Rubber-Legged Leeches – The perfect searching pattern for murky water. Add a bright hot spot for visibility.✔ Flies with Movement & Vibration – Rubber legs, flash, or hot colors help fish locate your fly in dirty water.
How to Fish Effectively in Spring Turnover
✔ Use Floating and Intermediate Lines – Keep flies in the strike zone without sinking too fast.✔ Slow Down Your Retrieve – Fish won’t chase aggressively, so keep movements subtle.✔ Time Your Fishing Right – Late morning to afternoon is best as water warms up.✔ Stay Mobile – Fish are scattered, so move frequently until you find them.
Call to Action (CTA):
Spring turnover doesn’t have to be frustrating—if you adapt your tactics, you’ll find fish when others are struggling.
Try out today’s tips and let me know your success!
Have an ice-off success story? DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) with your go-to flies.
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge so you never miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fishing buddy who needs help cracking the ice-off code.
Episode Outro:
That’s it for today’s episode! Spring turnover can be one of the most challenging times of year, but with the right strategies, it can also be one of the most rewarding.
Remember: find oxygen-rich areas, slow down your presentation, and use flies that stand out in murky water. If you do that, you’ll be ahead of the game while others are packing up early.
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge). I’d love to hear about your ice-off experiences and what flies have worked best for you.
Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!

"Fly Box Organization: The Secret to More Time Fishing and Less Time Searching"

Show Notes:
Episode 10: Fly Box Organization – The Key to More Efficient Fishing
Welcome back to The Stillwater Edge! Today, we’re talking about a topic that doesn’t get enough love but is absolutely critical to success on the water—fly box organization.
If you’ve ever wasted time digging through a messy fly box, only to watch a hatch pass you by, this episode is for you. Whether you're a new angler or a seasoned pro, a well-organized fly box can save time, increase confidence, and even protect your flies from damage.
By the end of this episode, you’ll have a simple system to keep your flies organized and ready for action.
Key Takeaways:
Why Fly Box Organization Matters
✔ Saves Time on the Water – Spend more time fishing and less time fumbling for flies.✔ Increases Confidence – Know exactly where your flies are and make quick decisions when the fish are biting.✔ Protects Your Flies – Prevents hooks from bending, materials from breaking, and rust from ruining your investment.✔ Keeps You Prepared – Match the hatch faster and react to conditions in real time.
How to Organize Your Fly Box Like a Pro
1. Sort by Type and Purpose
Separate your flies by category: chronomids, leeches, scuds, dries, terrestrials, nymphs, streamers.
If you fish multiple species, dedicate separate boxes for bass, pike, or carp flies.
Having a clear system eliminates time wasted searching for the right fly.
2. Organize by Size and Color
Within each category, arrange flies from smallest to largest and from lightest to darkest.
This helps you quickly match the hatch without second-guessing.
3. Use the Right Fly Box
Waterproof fly boxes prevent moisture buildup, rust, and damage.
EVA slotted foam keeps hooks secure and prevents materials from getting crushed.
Avoid throwing flies loosely into a box—this leads to tangled messes and broken flies.
4. Rotate Your Flies Seasonally
Spring/Fall: Chronomids, leeches, blobs, and boobies.
Summer: Terrestrials, dragonflies, nymphs, and dries.
Keeping a seasonally relevant selection minimizes clutter and ensures you always have what you need.
5. Label and Customize Your Fly Boxes
Use masking tape, permanent markers, or a label maker to clearly mark your boxes.
Different coloured boxes can help separate flies by type without opening them.
6. Keep Your Flies Dry
After fishing, air out your flies to prevent moisture from building up inside your box.
Keeping your box dry extends the lifespan of your flies and prevents rust.
Call to Action (CTA):
A well-organized fly box can dramatically improve your efficiency, confidence, and overall success on the water.
Your challenge: Take 10 minutes to go through your fly box and organize it using today’s tips.
Got a system that works for you? Share your best fly box organization hacks—DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge).
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more expert stillwater tips.
Pass this episode along to an angler who needs to clean up their fly box!
Episode Outro:
That’s it for today’s episode! Fly box organization isn’t just about being neat—it’s about being prepared, confident, and maximizing your time on the water.
By taking a little time to organize your flies, you’ll spend more time fishing, make better fly choices, and keep your gear in top shape.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge). I’d love to hear your best fly box organization tips—let’s keep the conversation going!
Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!
 
 
 
 

"The Ultimate Guide to Polarized Glasses for Stillwater Anglers"

Episode Title:
"The Ultimate Guide to Polarized Glasses for Stillwater Anglers"
Show Notes:
Episode 9: The Ultimate Guide to Polarized Glasses
Welcome back to The Stillwater Edge! In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most underrated tools in an angler’s kit—polarized glasses. The right pair can completely change how you fish by reducing glare, revealing underwater structure, and even helping you spot fish before they see you.
We’ll break down:
Why polarized eyewear is a must-have
How different lens colors impact visibility and fishing success
Which lenses are best for Stillwater anglers
By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly which sunglasses to grab for your next day on the water.
Key Takeaways:
Why Polarized Glasses Matter for Anglers
✔ Reduces glare – Cuts down surface reflection so you can see into the water.✔ Helps you spot fish and structure – Essential for locating drop-offs, feeding zones, and cruising trout.✔ Enhances safety – Protects your eyes from UV rays, hooks, and flying debris.✔ Reduces eye strain – Less fatigue means better focus and longer fishing days.
Choosing the Right Lens Color
✔ Gray Lenses – Best for bright sunny days. True-to-color vision with no distortion.✔ Amber/Copper Lenses – The most versatile choice for Stillwater fishing. Boosts contrast and depth perception, making it easier to spot fish.✔ Copper Red Lenses – Great for lakes with greenish water and variable light conditions.✔ Yellow Lenses – Ideal for low-light fishing at dawn, dusk, or cloudy conditions.✔ Mirrored Lenses – Further reduces glare for extreme sunlight conditions.✔ Blue-Green Lenses – Perfect for highly reflective water or algae-rich lakes.
Best Lenses for Stillwater Anglers
#1 Choice: Amber/Copper Lenses – The best all-around option for seeing structure, fish, and varying light conditions.#2 Choice: Mirrored or Blue-Green Lenses – Best for high-sun, reflective water environments, reducing eye strain.
If you’re getting just one pair, go with amber/copper lenses for the most versatility on Stillwater lakes.
Call to Action (CTA):
Polarized glasses are a game-changer for Stillwater anglers. If you haven’t upgraded your eyewear yet, now’s the time.
What’s your go-to polarized lens? Let me know—DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge).
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more expert-level stillwater tactics.
Share this episode with a fishing buddy who needs to upgrade their shades.
Episode Outro:
That’s it for today’s episode! Polarized eyewear isn’t just about looking cool—it’s about seeing more, fishing better, and protecting your eyes.
By choosing the right lenses, you’ll spot more fish, read water conditions better, and fish longer without eye strain.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge). Let’s talk sunglasses—DM me with your favorite lens choice.
Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!
 
 
 
 

"Throat Sampling: The Game-Changer for Unlocking Trout Feeding Patterns"

Show Notes:
Episode 8: The Power of Throat Sampling
Welcome back to The Stillwater Edge! In this episode, we’re talking about a must-have skill for any Stillwater angler—throat sampling. This technique gives you real-time insight into what trout are feeding on, allowing you to adjust your flies and presentation instantly. No more guessing—just precision fishing that leads to more hookups.
We’ll cover:
Why throat sampling works
How to do it properly
The massive benefits it brings to your success on the water
By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to collect and use throat samples to crack the code on trout feeding patterns.
Key Takeaways:
Why Throat Sampling Works
Trout are opportunistic feeders—their diet changes based on what’s hatching in real time.
A throat sample provides instant feedback, eliminating the guesswork of fly selection.
It reveals feeding behavior throughout the day—like a buffet lineup, showing what trout ate from morning to evening.
The Benefits of Throat Sampling
✔ Match the Hatch with Precision – See the exact size, color, and profile of what trout are eating and adjust your fly accordingly.✔ Know the Feeding Zone – Find out if trout are feeding near the bottom, mid-column, or surface, so you can present your fly at the right depth.✔ Increase Your Success Rate – Less time swapping flies, more time catching fish.✔ Gain Confidence – Knowing exactly what trout are keying in on lets you fish with certainty, not hope.
How to Collect a Throat Sample
What You Need
Throat pump – Available at fly shops or online.
Collection vial – A small bottle with lake water to store the sample.
A trout – Catch a fish before you can sample it!
Step-by-Step Process
Keep the trout calm in the net.
Prepare the throat pump – Fill it with a bit of lake water.
Gently insert the pump into the trout’s mouth and squeeze to collect the sample.
Empty the contents into the vial for analysis.
Release the trout or keep it for harvest.
Pro Tips:
Sample responsibly – You don’t need to sample every fish, especially if you’ve already dialed in the pattern.
Handle the fish with care to ensure a safe release.
Document your findings – Take photos of throat samples for future reference.
Call to Action (CTA):
If you’re not using throat samples yet, this is your challenge—give it a shot and see how it transforms your fishing success.
Let me know your results! DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) with your throat sampling stories.
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more expert-level stillwater tactics.
Share this episode with a fellow angler who could use a boost in their fishing game.
Episode Outro:
That wraps up today’s episode! Throat sampling isn’t just about catching more fish—it’s about fishing smarter.
By using this technique, you’ll gain real-time knowledge of what trout are eating, adjust faster, and fish with total confidence. If you haven’t tried it yet, make it a goal this season.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge). Let’s keep the conversation going—DM me with your throat sampling experiences.
Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!

"Mastering Chironomid Hatches: Finding and Fishing the Hatch Cycle"

Show Notes:
Episode 7: Mastering Chironomid Hatches
Welcome to The Stillwater Edge! In this episode, we dive into chironomids, the backbone of a trout’s diet in lakes. If you can master finding and fishing chironomid hatches, you’ll unlock some of the most productive and rewarding days on the water. We’ll cover where hatches start, what to look for, and how to fish subsurface throughout the hatch cycle.
Key Takeaways:
Finding Chironomid Hatches
Temperature Matters: Hatches begin when water temps hit 50-55°F.
Key Locations: Bays, flats, shoals, drop-offs, and sunken islands warm up first and trigger hatches.
Bottom Structure: Chironomid larvae burrow in muddy bottoms, so finding soft sediment and vegetation can lead you to a hatch.
Wind Clues: Light wind can concentrate food into predictable areas, while strong wind can scatter hatches.
How to Spot a Hatch in Progress
Look for rings and swirls from trout feeding just under the surface.
Check for tiny bubbles and shucks floating on the water.
Polarized glasses help spot emerging pupae and suspended trout.
Fishing the Hatch Cycle
Phase 1: Pre-Hatch (Bloodworms on the Bottom)
Before the hatch begins, trout are feeding on bloodworms in the mud.
Best Setup: Fish a bloodworm pattern 6 inches off the bottom using a static indicator rig.
When the bloodworm bite slows, the hatch is beginning—time to switch flies.
Phase 2: The Active Hatch (Pupae Rising in the Water Column)
As chironomids emerge from the bottom, trout key in on gas-filled pupae rising to the surface.
Best Setup:
Switch to a chromie or gas-filled pupal imitation.
Adjust depth: Fish 12-15 inches off the bottom with an indicator.
Match the hatch by using the right size, shape, and color based on what you see.
Phase 3: The Late Hatch (Trout Feeding Higher in the Column)
As the hatch progresses, trout move up to eat emerging chironomids closer to the surface.
Common Mistake: Anglers assume the hatch is over when the bites slow down—instead, trout have moved higher.
Best Setup:
Instead of changing flies, shorten your leader to fish higher in the water column.
If trout are swirling at 10 feet but you’re fishing at 18 feet, adjust your indicator accordingly.
Try suspending a slightly larger chironomid pattern to stand out.
Pro Tips for Chironomid Success
✔ Constantly adjust depth—chironomids move, so should your fly.✔ Observe trout behavior—if they’re rolling near the surface, they’re feeding higher in the water column.✔ Use a throat pump (where legal) to confirm size and color of active chironomids.✔ Timing is everything—hatches can last all day or just a few hours, so fish them hard when they happen.✔ Key hatch zones—drop-offs, weedy beds, muddy bottoms, and shoals are prime areas for chironomid action.
Call to Action (CTA):
Chironomid fishing is all about patience, precision, and observation. Focus on finding the hatch, dialing in your depth, and adjusting throughout the cycle to maximize success.
Want to improve your chironomid game?
Share your best chironomid tips with me—DM me on Instagram (@stillwateredge).
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more expert stillwater fishing tactics.
Leave a review to help other anglers find the show.
Episode Outro:
That’s it for today’s episode! Chironomid fishing is one of the most rewarding tactics in stillwater fly fishing, but it requires attention to detail and constant adjustments.
By finding the right water, reading trout behavior, and fishing through the hatch cycle, you’ll unlock some of the best fishing of the season.
Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) for more Stillwater insights. Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing.

"Leech vs. Woolly Bugger: When to Use These Legendary Fly Patterns"

Show Notes:
Episode 5: Leech vs. Woolly Bugger – Key Differences and When to Use Them
Welcome to The Stillwater Edge. In this episode, we break down two of the most legendary fly patterns—the leech and the woolly bugger. Both are essential in your fly box, but understanding their differences and when to use each one can significantly improve your success on the water. By the end of this episode, you’ll know how to choose the right fly for the right conditions.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding the Leech Fly
Design and Features: Mimics natural aquatic leeches with soft materials like marabou and rabbit fur for fluid movement.
Why Fish Love It: High in protein, abundant in lakes, and a substantial meal for trout.
Best Techniques: Slow, steady retrieves with a twitch-pause motion, imitating a real leech’s swimming pattern.
Where to Fish It: Clear water, weed beds, drop-offs, and muddy bottoms where leeches naturally occur.
Understanding the Woolly Bugger Fly
Design and Features: More versatile than the leech, capable of imitating baitfish, crayfish, and larger aquatic insects.
Why Fish Love It: Its bolder profile and erratic movement trigger aggressive strikes.
Best Techniques:
Fast strips to mimic a fleeing baitfish.
Slow retrieves for a crawling crayfish action.
Trolling for a consistent presentation.
Where to Fish It: Works in a variety of water conditions, including murky water, deeper zones, and turnover periods.
Key Differences Between the Leech and Woolly Bugger
Movement: Leech has a subtle, lifelike motion ideal for calm conditions, while the woolly bugger’s bold and erratic action excels in murky water and aggressive feeding conditions.
Purpose: The leech is best for imitating a specific food source when fish are feeding naturally, while the woolly bugger is a generalist pattern that provokes reaction strikes.
Situations: Use leeches in clear, shallow water where trout are cruising. Woolly buggers are more adaptable, effective in various depths and clarity levels.
Final Thoughts
The leech is the go-to choice when fish are feeding naturally and conditions are clear and calm.
The woolly bugger is best for exploratory fishing, aggressive feeders, and when conditions call for a reaction strike.
Both flies should have a permanent place in your fly box, with the right choice depending on conditions and fish behavior.
Call to Action:
Both the leech and the woolly bugger are must-have patterns, but knowing when and how to use them makes all the difference. Try both flies this season and experiment with different retrieves to see what works best in your local waters.
Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more actionable stillwater fishing insights, and follow me on Instagram (@yourhandle) for additional tips and behind-the-scenes content.
Episode Outro:
That wraps up today’s episode. The leech and the woolly bugger are both essential flies, but knowing how and when to use them is key to maximizing your success. Whether you’re fishing calm waters with a natural leech pattern or provoking aggressive strikes with a woolly bugger, these flies should always be in your arsenal.
Thanks for tuning in to The Stillwater Edge. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) for more stillwater fishing insights. Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing.

Spring Secret Weapon – Mastering Bloodworms on Stillwater

Spring’s Secret Weapon: Mastering Bloodworms on Stillwater"
Show Notes:
 Spring Secret Weapon – Mastering Bloodworms on Stillwater
Welcome to The Stillwater Edge. In this episode, we unlock one of the most under utilized yet powerful flies for early-season stillwater fishing—the bloodworm. As trout emerge from winter, these bright red larvae become a key food source, making them a must-have in your fly box. I’ll break down why bloodworms work, when to fish them, and the best techniques for maximizing your success.
Key Takeaways:
Why Bloodworms Are Essential in Early Spring
Bloodworms thrive in muddy bottoms and serve as a consistent food source.
Their high hemoglobin content provides trout with much-needed energy.
Trout actively seek them out, making them a prime early-season target.
When to Fish Bloodworms
Early mornings and late afternoons are peak feeding times.
Look for trout tailing and stirring up sediment—this is a clear sign they’re hunting bloodworms.
Where to Find Them
Target lakes with muddy bottoms, silty bays, and weed beds.
Use polarized sunglasses to spot fish digging in the mud.
How to Fish Bloodworms Effectively
Static Indicator Setup
Simple and effective for beginners—set a bloodworm under an indicator.
Use a natural colour bloodworm with a tungsten bead under a desired depth fluorocarbon leader.
Works best when trout are feeding low and slow.
Active Retrieve Methods
Use a clear camo or full sink line to slowly retrieve bloodworms along the bottom.
Effective for covering water and targeting larger trout.
The key is to stay in contact with the bottom to mimic a natural bloodworm movement.
Bloodworm Color and Size Selection
Start with red and maroon, but also carry olive or greenish variations.
Match the hatch. If red isn’t working, switch colours
Additional Tips
Use long fluorocarbon leaders for a stealthier approach.
Pay attention to trout behavior—they will show you where the action is.
Call to Action:
Bloodworms are an essential tool for early-season stillwater fishing. Take what you’ve learned today and apply it on the water. Try out these techniques and see how they work for you. And let me know!
Follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) for more Stillwater tips and behind-the-scenes content. Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge and leave a review to help more anglers find the show.
Episode Outro:
That’s a wrap on today’s episode. Bloodworms are one of the most reliable early-season food sources, and learning to fish them properly will take your success to another level. Whether you prefer the simple indicator method or want to experiment with retrieve techniques, the key is to stay patient, observe, and adapt.
Thanks for tuning in to The Stillwater Edge. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) for more stillwater fishing insights. Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing.

The Three Essential Fly Lines for Spring Stillwater Success

Welcome to The Stillwater Edge. Spring is an exciting time for stillwater fly anglers—ice is off, fish are active, and opportunities are endless. But without the right fly lines, you could be missing key opportunities. In this episode, we cover three essential fly lines that every angler needs for early-season success. You’ll learn why fly line selection matters, when to use each type, and how different brands can enhance your setup.
Key Takeaways:
Why Fly Line Selection Matters in Spring:
Spring transition: Trout move between shallows and deeper zones, requiring different line types to effectively target them.
Depth targeting: Understanding layers like the thermocline, shallow feeding zones, and deep resting areas helps dial in presentations.
Your fly line is your connection to the fish: The right line gets your fly to the correct depth and keeps it in the strike zone.
The Three Essential Fly Lines:
1. Sinking Line (Type 5–7 Sink Rate)
Purpose: Reaches trout holding in deep zones (15–30 feet) where water temperatures push them down.
Best Uses:
Retrieves like slow strips, long pulls, and countdown methods ensure the fly gets into the feeding zone.
Essential for targeting deep fish when they aren’t cruising the shallows.
Recommended Brands: SA Sonar Stillwater, Rio Deep Series.
2. Floating Line
Purpose: Ideal for surface-level presentations, indicators, and shallow retrieves.
Best Uses:
Perfect for indicator fishing with chronomids, bloodworms, and balanced leeches.
Effective for shallow water (2–6 feet) and mid-column feeding.
Recommended Brands: Rio Gold for general floating, Rio Indicator for indicator setups.
3. Clear Camo Line (Slow Sink – 1.5 IPS)
Purpose: Provides stealth when targeting shallow, wary fish in early spring.
Best Uses:
Key for fishing leeches, blobs, and nymphs in the shallows.
Effective for fooling big, early-season fish that are feeding confidently in open water.
Recommended Brands: SA Clear Camo, Rio CamoLux.
Fly Line Selection Tips:
Different brands offer unique performance—experiment with various lines to find the best fit for your casting style.
Floating lines vary in design—choose the right one based on whether you're fishing indicators or dries.
Sinking lines must match the depth you’re targeting—faster sinking rates for deep water, slower for mid-depths.
Never be brand loyal—test what works best for you.
Call to Action:
Finding the right fly line is the foundation of stillwater fishing success. Experiment, adapt, and build your collection to handle any condition.
Share your favorite fly lines with me—DM me or reach out on Instagram (@stillwateredge).
Let’s discuss what’s working for you and dial in your setup. Also, subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more actionable fly fishing tips each week.
Episode Outro:
That’s it for today’s episode. Fly line selection is one of the most important factors in early-season stillwater success. By having a sinking line, a floating line, and a clear camo line, you can cover all depths and conditions, ensuring you’re always fishing where the trout are.
Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow me on Instagram (@Stillwateredge) for more stillwater insights. Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing.

"5 Essential Tips to Prepare for Stillwater Season"

 
 
"5 Essential Tips to Prepare for Stillwater Season"
Show Notes:
Episode 3: Gearing Up for Stillwater Season Welcome to another episode of The Stillwater Edge! With ice-off just around the corner, now is the time to get prepared so you can make the most of those early-season fishing opportunities. In this episode, I share five essential tips to ensure you’re ready the moment the ice melts, maximizing your chances of landing a personal best.
Key Takeaways:
Get Your Flies Ready
Take inventory and restock proven early-season patterns.
Must-have flies: Blobs, Leeches, and Bloodworms.
Optimize your selection based on size, color, and type.
Inspect and Organize Your Gear
Check rods, reels, and fly lines for wear and damage.
Replace old leaders and tippets to avoid break-offs.
Ensure reel and rod setups are correctly matched.
Prepare Your Boat and Safety Equipment
Ensure all safety gear (PFDs, life jackets, emergency kits) is in working order.
Check and charge trolling motor batteries.
Inspect anchor systems and clean/organize your boat.
Know Where to Go
Research ice-off patterns, lake turnovers, and past hotspots.
Use online resources, forums, and personal fishing logs to plan ahead.
Having a game plan saves time and increases success.
Practice Your Casting
Take advantage of the pre-season to refine your casting accuracy.
Simulate fishing conditions by practicing short, controlled casts.
A well-practiced cast makes for smoother, more productive days on the water.
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If you’re serious about levelling up your Stillwater fishing game, make sure you're prepared before ice-off! Take inventory, fine-tune your gear, and plan your trips now so you don’t miss out on the best opportunities. Subscribe to The Stillwater Edge for more actionable tips, and follow me on Instagram (@stillwateredge) for behind-the-scenes fishing content!