Into the Backing

Into the Backing Podcast Ep. 02: Can Fishing Be Too Easy?

Anchored Outdoors
April 11, 2020

Today our round table guests include Master caster Peter Morse, professional photographer and avid angler David Anderson, and guide and entrepreneur Josh Hutchins. On this episode, we explore whether there is such a thing as too easy when it comes to fishing. We also consider the definition of fly fishing and discuss our opinions on whether fishing is a sport. Join us for this stimulating conversation between friends and fishing experts.

Outline of This Episode

[1:15] Is there such a thing as too easy in fishing?
[9:15] It all comes down to individual preference
[13:55] Are you fishing to eat or fishing for sport
[19:48] Nowadays there is a faster progression
[26:06] Why is there a controversy?
[34:02] Is fly fishing a sport?
[43:22] We all like easy
[45:55] Does easy equal boring?

What is fly fishing?

How can we define fly fishing? Peter Morse states that it is defined by the casting. There are 2 things that are not done in fly fishing; harling or trolling flies and putting bait on the hook. As long as you cast the fly and bring your line in it is fly fishing. The species that you are fishing for doesn’t matter. How do you define fly fishing? Do you have anything else to add to this definition?

Is there such a thing as too easy in fishing?

Is there such a thing as too many fish? Does it matter how you fish? Where do you draw the line? Fly fishing great, Mel Krieger, once said that the response to every question asked about fly fishing begins with – it depends. Everyone has their own rules as to what defines a legitimate catch. Dave considers fishing to be more about the place where he is rather than the fish that he catches. April thinks it depends on whether you are fishing to eat or if you are fishing for sport. What are your thoughts? Do you follow strict, self-imposed rules when you fish? Where do you draw the line?

The changing roles of fly fishing over time

There is no question that fly fishing has evolved over time. 20 or 30 years ago you fished where you lived and that was it. But nowadays people travel all over the world to fish. They see posts on social media that inspire them to catch fish in different places or use different kinds of gear. Does it matter whether you catch a fish with a fiberglass rod, carbon fiber, or bamboo? Do you care whether you used a nymph or dry fly? Often these arguments are really about ego or personal pride over a person’s battle with the fish.

Is fly fishing a sport?

There are different opinions on this question. Some say it’s a sport, some say it’s an art, and others liken it to hunting. April compares fly fishing to hunting, but there is definitely an artsy side to it. Tying flies and fishing photography are 2 ways in which people can show their artistic side. But some people enjoy competing for a bigger fish. Perhaps it really depends on your reason for fishing in the first place. To answer the question you need to consider why you are out there. What do you think? Is fly fishing a sport?

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