This week we're joined by bestselling author and longtime fly angler Monte Burke, whose acclaimed book Lords of the Fly chronicles the unforgettable pursuit of the world-record tarpon and the larger-than-life personalities who helped shape modern fly fishing. Monte is also the author of Saban, Sowbelly, Rivers Always Reach the Sea, and has written for The New York Times, Garden & Gun, The Drake, Outside, and many more.

Our conversation goes well beyond the pages of Lords of the Fly. We dive into the history and culture of fly fishing, the places and people that have left the biggest impression on Monte, and why the stories surrounding our sport matter just as much as the fish themselves. We also talk about traveling in search of new waters, the importance of introducing kids to fly fishing, the unique community that surrounds the sport, and what keeps all of us coming back to the water.

Whether you're obsessed with chasing trophy fish or simply love spending time on the water with family and friends, this episode is packed with stories, perspective, and plenty of reasons to grab a fly rod and head outside.

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This week we're sharing stories from a summer full of fishing—from Caleb's unforgettable two-day trip with his boys chasing bluegill and smallmouth to our ongoing quest for trophy bronzebacks and our newest challenge of chasing carp on the fly.

Along the way we talk about encouraging kids to try hard things, celebrating growth over success, and why intentional time together often matters more than what's at the end of your line.

Whether you're a dad, an angler, or just someone who loves a good fishing story, we think you'll enjoy this conversation.

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Most fly fishing guides are just focused on finding fish. Carter Allison is focused on building community.

In this episode, we sit down with Charleston, South Carolina fly fishing guide Carter Allison to talk about chasing redfish in the Lowcountry, becoming a guide at a young age, and his vision for creating a stronger community among guides and anglers in the Charleston area. Carter shares how a love for fishing turned into a business, what he's learned from spending countless days on the water, and why relationships matter just as much as the fish we catch.

While Carter isn't a dad yet, his passion for mentorship, serving others, and investing in people made this conversation a natural fit for the show. Whether you're a fly angler, a guide, a business owner, or simply someone who loves hearing stories about following your passion, you'll find something to enjoy in this episode.

https://www.flyfishingofcharleston.com/

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On this episode of Dads On The Fly, we sit down with author, fly fishing guide, and storyteller Ryan Johnston for a conversation packed with laughter, meaningful stories, and a deep love for the outdoors.

Ryan shares how his dad first introduced him to fishing and the outdoors at an early age, shaping a passion that would eventually lead him into guiding, writing, and mentoring others through the sport. We dive into several unforgettable fishing stories from his years on the water, including the chaos, humor, and lessons that only come from a life spent chasing fish.

We also talk about Ryan’s books, including A Reel Job and Reelly, where he captures the real-life experiences of guiding and the unique culture surrounding fly fishing. And we look at his new book Reel Salty

One of the most meaningful parts of the conversation centers around Cast Hope, the nonprofit Ryan helps lead, which uses fly fishing and the outdoors to invest in kids and create life-changing experiences and mentorship opportunities.

This episode is full of great stories, genuine perspective, and a reminder of why the outdoors has such a powerful way of bringing people together.

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This week, we break one of our own rules… and it was absolutely worth it.

We sit down with Del Munro of Davidson River Outfitters. Del is a true student of the river. While he may not be a dad, his knowledge of smallmouth bass fishing earns him a seat at the table.

We dive into Del’s journey in the fly fishing world, what makes smallmouth so addicting, and how chasing bronze backs is a completely different game than the trout most of us cut our teeth on. From reading water to dialing in flies and approach, Del shares practical, hard-earned wisdom you won’t find in a textbook.

If you’ve ever thought about making the jump from trout streams to smallmouth rivers (or just want to become a better angler overall,) this one’s packed with insight.

Plus, we swap a few stories, talk local waters, and get a glimpse into what makes Western North Carolina such a special place to fish.

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In this episode, it’s just Caleb and Joshua behind the mic as they recap a full slate of spring break adventures with their families.

Caleb shares stories from a camping trip in the mountains with family and friends, along with a recent guide trip that reminded him why he loves helping others experience fly fishing for the first time.

Joshua reflects on a trip to the Masters, some time spent at the beach, and an unforgettable redfish trip alongside former guest Justin Ravenel that you won’t want to miss.

From fairways to fly rods, this episode is all about making memories with the people you love and finding time to get outside along the way.

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In this episode, we sit down with Michael Letchworth of Fox Hollow Outdoors, a brand and outdoor movement built on something deeper than just fishing and hunting—it’s about legacy.

Michael shares the story behind Fox Hollow Outdoors, a father-and-son journey that started with time in the woods and on the water and has grown into a lifestyle rooted in family, tradition, and the outdoors. What began as simple moments together has evolved into a platform that celebrates real adventures, authentic storytelling, and the kind of lessons you can only learn outside.

We talk about raising kids in the outdoors, why those experiences matter more now than ever, and how intentional time together can shape not just skills—but character. From early mornings chasing fish to shared meals after a hunt, this conversation is a reminder of what it really means to pass something down to the next generation.

If you care about the outdoors, your family, and making memories that last, this one’s for you.

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In this episode of Dads on the Fly, we sit down with renowned sporting artist Paul Puckett to talk about the journey that led him to combine his love for fly fishing and art into a career. Growing up fishing with his grandfathers in Texas and later working in fly shops across the country, Paul found a way to turn the moments we all love on the water into paintings that tell a story.

We talk about how travel, family, and time on the water have shaped his life, why certain fishing memories stay with us forever, and how creativity often comes from simply paying attention to the places and people around us. Paul also shares stories from his adventures around the world, what inspires his famous “catch and release” paintings, and how being a dad influences the way he looks at both art and fishing.

This episode is about more than art or fly fishing — it’s about slowing down, making memories, and learning to appreciate the moments that matter most.

https://www.paulpuckettart.com/

Time Will Tell film

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