Tim Arsenault has a laugh you won’t forget and a cast you’ll want to master. An avid angler and competitor at the popular Spey-o-Rama casting event, he has made a much-deserved name for himself as one of North America’s top casters. Tim is the founder of Bridge Fly Lines and the manager of Vancouver’s Michael and Young Fly shop.
In this episode of Anchored, Tim shares the story of how he started fishing and, eventually, competing. We discuss the stresses behind starting a line company and take a closer look at some of the advanced casting techniques that Tim uses for distance. Find this episode on our YouTube channel if you prefer to watch Tim’s form while you listen.
Outline of This Episode
[0:13] Getting to Know Tim Arsenault
[3:51] First Successful Steelhead Trip
[15:26] Rory Costello
[26:01] Lines and Rods
[34:41] Starting His Own Fly Line Company
[56:25] Casting Steps and Tips
[1:14:25] Tim’s Next Workshop
Getting to Know Tim Arsenault
Tim Arsenault was born in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, but grew up in British Columbia. His parents weren’t outdoor enthusiasts, but Tim found his way to local streams in South Surrey to fish with spinning rods. It wasn’t until high school that his passion for fishing took off, thanks to a friend who had a car and the gear needed for real fishing adventures. These early experiences shaped Tim’s love for the sport.
First Successful Steelhead Trip
Tim’s first successful steelhead trip was on the Chehalis River. He hiked into the canyon with friends and caught a summer-run steelhead, which cemented his dedication to fishing. Tim talks about the excitement of navigating the canyon, setting up his gear, and finally hooking a steelhead. The experience wasn’t just about catching a fish; it was a turning point that deepened his love for fishing.
Rory Costello
In the world of competitive casting, Tim mentions Rory Costello, who is known for his exceptional casting skills. Despite not fishing much with a two-handed rod, Rory was still one of the best in the world. Tim shares stories about Rory’s unique approach, highlighting how different backgrounds and techniques can lead to excellence. This shows the diverse ways people can excel in casting and how learning from various techniques can improve one’s skills.
Lines and Rods
Tim talks about the technical side of fly lines and rods, explaining the differences between standard fishing rods and competition rods. He describes how competition lines are made for maximum distance and performance, often needing specific adjustments for different casting styles. Tim also discusses how rod and line technology has evolved, improving casting efficiency and accuracy. This section provides useful information for anyone looking to better understand the gear used in fly fishing.
Starting His Own Fly Line Company
Tim started his own fly line company, Bridge Outfitting, out of curiosity about line design. He studied and graphed various lines, eventually working with Scientific Anglers to produce lines that met his high standards. The name “Bridge” symbolizes the connection between traditional and modern fly fishing techniques. Tim shares the challenges and successes of starting his business, from the initial idea to the launch of his products. His story highlights the dedication and innovation needed to succeed in the fly fishing industry.
Casting Steps and Tips
Tim offers practical casting tips, emphasizing body positioning and controlled movements. He explains how keeping hands in front and using body rotation can improve casting efficiency. Tim provides a step-by-step guide to better casting, sharing advice on common mistakes to avoid and how to achieve a smooth, powerful cast. This section is filled with valuable advice for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Website: BridgeOutfitting.com
- Instagram: @bridgeoutfitting
- Tim’s Masterclass: https://courses.anchoredoutdoors.com/courses/spey-casting-with-tim-arsenault
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