Dads On The Fly

In this special episode, Joshua and Caleb are joined by Joshua's son Foster to recap their first-ever fly fishing tournament adventure. They share what it was like to bring a competitive edge to the river, how the pressure changed their usual fishing mindset, and a few unexpected and hilarious moments from the day. Whether you’ve fished a hundred tournaments or never considered one, you’ll enj...

In this episode, we recap a recent family getaway to the beautiful high country of North Carolina. From casting lines on a quiet lake near Blowing Rock to paddle boarding, swimming, and building boats with our kids, this trip was all about slowing down and soaking up time together. We share stories of hunting for salamanders and crayfish, discovering wild blackberries, and the joy of introducing o...

In this episode, we sit down with Clark Bartee, founder of High Ground Outfitters , a nonprofit ministry that uses fly fishing as a tool for rest, restoration, and connection—especially for pastors and ministry leaders. Clark shares powerful stories of how God opened doors to start this unique ministry, and how fly fishing has become more than a passion—it's a platform for building trust, enco...

In this throwback-style episode, Joshua and Caleb are back behind the mics—just the two of them—catching up and reflecting on life lately. From recent fishing trips and outdoor adventures with the kids to lessons learned in the thick of summertime dad life, it’s a casual conversation full of laughs, stories, and the kind of heart behind why Dads on the Fly got started in the first place. So grab a...

In this episode, we’re joined by John Tamboles—artist, veteran, dad, and lifelong fisherman from Florida’s Treasure Coast. Known to many as Off the Grid John , John shares how his love for fly fishing was shaped by time on the water with his father, a well-known fly tyer in the community. We talk about his creative journey from military service to tattooing and graphic design, and how the artistic...

In this episode, we sit down with fly fishing guide Pat Tully of Trout Zone Anglers to hear his powerful story of how the sport has come full circle in his life. From his grandfather teaching his dad to fish, to his dad passing it down to him, Pat now shares the joy of fly fishing with his own children. We talk about the importance of getting kids on the water, practical gear tips for young angler...

In this episode, we sit down with Shawn Combs, Director of Product Design and Development at Orvis. Shawn shares his journey of falling in love with the outdoors and how that passion led him to one of the most iconic brands in fly fishing. He gives us an inside look at what he loves about his role at Orvis, some of his favorite fish to chase, and the memorable places his fishing adventures have ta...

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 pe...

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 ra...

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." Whethe...

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...

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...

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 resil...

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...

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 jou...

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 supp...

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...

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 W...

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...

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...

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 Ramble...

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 Fl...

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...

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 Jame...

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 Virg...