The Tao of Flies

Counting the months until Belize. If you’re interested in joining our group for some amazing saltwater fly fishing in March 2027, send me an email [email protected]

Black leeches are a staple in my fly boxes.

Pink lemonade mini chubby

Mini Chubbies

Vinyl ribbed weighted San Juan worms. Dirty? Yes but they do work!

Steps:
1. Burn one end of the yarn to form a taper.
2. Attach the bead to the hook and then slide the yarn through the hole of the bead.
3. Start thread.
4. Attach vinyl ribbing.
5. Wrap ribbing.
6. Tie off the ribbing.
7. Whip finish.
8. Start thread again in front of the build.
9. Build thread dam and whip finish.
(Alternatively, you can add a bit of super glue, make a few wraps behind the bead, then jump the bead to form the dam by the hook eye.
10. Trim yarn to length and burn to form taper.

How I attach the vinyl ribbing: First, I melt one end of the ribbing. While it's still soft, I flatten the vinyl ribbing. Be careful, don't touch it right away because it'll be very hot. Then I tie it and then wrap.

Now accepting applications for participants for the Veterans and First Responder Steelhead Retreat in Erie, Pennsylvania. November 3-7.

If you’re a veteran, in law enforcement, a paramedic or firefighter, you qualify. What’s included? All lodging, meals, and 3 days of guided fishing for steelhead.

What’s not included? Travel to Erie, Pennsylvania and fishing license.

Registration closes August 31. Selected individuals will be notified by September 15.

This is an alcohol and drug free event.

If you’re interested in applying for one of the 7 spots, submit a request at

https://sontaoflies.com/pages/rivers-of-valor

Irresistible Adams. The body is made of deer hair.

I'm proud to announce that applications are now open for Rivers of Valor: Erie, Pennsylvania Veterans and First Responder Retreat.

Dates: November 3-7
Location: Erie, Pennsylvania
Who: Veterans and First Responders (Law Enforcement, Paramedics, and Firefighters)
Spots: 7 (4 veterans, 3 first responders)

Details: I'll be hosting the 3rd annual steelhead retreat this coming November. This year, I’m honored to expand the retreat to include first responders alongside veterans.

If selected, you'll receive:
-3 days of guided fly fishing
-Lodging
-Meals

Not covered: Travel to Erie, Pennsylvania fishing license and combination Trout/Lake Erie permit

Experience with fly fishing is helpful but not necessary.

Registration closes August 31. Selected individuals will be notified by September 15.

To apply, head to https://sontaoflies.com/pages/rivers-of-valor and complete the registration form.

This retreat is made possible through the generous sponsorship of WTM Digital. I’m incredibly grateful for their support in making this experience possible for veterans and first responders.

As a way of saying thank you, please show them some support and give them a follow:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/officialwtmdigital
FB: https://www.facebook.com/officialwtmdigital

Smoking some beautiful wild sockeye fillets today.

Simple Recipe:
1. Dry brine 12 hours to overnight with kosher salt.
2. Rinse well and pat dry.
3. Set smoker to 185.
4. Add the filets.
5. Top it with fresh thyme and rosemary.
5. Remove at 134-140 and rest (USDA states 145 but it’ll increase in temperature while resting).

Enjoy!