The Blitz – Fly Fishing Blogs

Lionel: Cheeky is a fantastic company that not only promotes the sport of fly fishing but also exemplifies the values that I hold dear. Through their bold and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity, Cheeky exhibits the same morals that I stand for. They fearlessly showcase the joys of fly fishing to both men and women of all colors, ages, and backgrounds, making the sport accessible and enjoyable for all.

The Albie Project exists to learn more about an underappreciated species and accumulate a strong base of scientific data and understanding that can drive future management conversations. ASGA has termed the project as “the intersection of passionate anglers, cutting-edge science and precautionary fisheries management”. Albies are a data-poor species. Data drives decision making for our fisheries. State agencies are already stretched thin on bandwidth and budgeting for research. ASGA recognized that our membership loves these fish and values them for their businesses and recreation, so we stepped onto the frontlines of Albie research with much-appreciated support from our community partners, our members and sponsor brands - like Cheeky.

Smallmouth bass on the fly is not a new concept, but more and more freshwater anglers are turning to the species during the warmer months for more productive fishing than their usual salmonid targets. Although they often occupy similar water types to trout, smallies are not just a substitute. They’re in a league of their own in tactics, size, and fight, and are definitely worth developing the skills to effectively find and catch.

Eric: We've got a few film projects. We have both a film version and a video series version of The Chesapeake Tales, which chronicles a 7 day journey across Chesapeake watershed, getting into a number of different species. These species include some that aren’t always targeted on the fly, but should be checked out and appreciated. The film in a part of IF4, and you can see the full series on YouTube. 

I always use this metaphor with my clients:  Imagine running a marathon then having your head stuck in a bucket of water - that's what taking the fish out of the water is experiencing. 

 Typically, stripers ranging from schoolie size to 30 pounds will stage in warm back bays for a month and a half before continuing on their journey. The aggression and brute force of these fish make them a spectacular battle on fly gear. If you're looking to get into some migrating backwater stripers, here are a few tips to help you along the way!

Aside from the incredible humanitarian work we have been able to do through the group, a deeper purpose of the Fishin’ Physicians has also been to demonstrate that fly fishing is for everyone. It can be an intimidating and seemingly expensive sport to get into, but we have encouraged women, in particular, to give it a try and continue to make affordable gear recommendations.

Let’s face it- if a big brown or rainbow trout is what you’re after, there are plenty of places in the Northern Hemisphere with fish of comparable size that require way less travel. What makes New Zealand so special is the densities in which these fish occur, the pulse-quickening sight fishing opportunities, and the sheer amount of water in this country where that’s all possible. It’s a chance to put your skills up against huge, smart fish in small streams that run through some of the most beautiful natural settings on our planet, and come back a better angler. 

Cheeky: We're stoked to have you on the Cheeky Ambassador team, so we have to ask - why do you fish Cheeky Reels? 

Eeland: I fish Cheeky reels cause it's what all the cool kids are doing-aren't we all just trying to cling and relive our youth. Plus it's important that they are quality. I like the color combinations and how much I've beat up the reels with 40 pound snook, 10 pound bones and 25 pound carp, and the reels are still rocking. 

It’s been about four months since Cheeky sent me a Sighter 350 to test out. When it arrived, I paired it with my 10’6” three weight and got ready to put it to work in a range of scenarios across my home state of Pennsylvania.... read the full review by two-time world youth medalist and former captain of the U.S. Youth Fly Fishing Team, Mike Komara.

Over the years fly fishing for musky has gained a ton of popularity, as these toothy predators have slowly garnered the imagination and attention of thrill seekers looking to throw giant flies in hopes of hooking the fish of a lifetime. You also don't have to travel half way around the globe to catch one.