The Leader | Getting Started In Fly Fishing - Episode 9

In this video Brian Flechsig breaks down the importance of understanding your leader, how it presents your fly and how it can even impact the accuracy of your cast.
This is the single MOST IMPORTANT EPISODE in this series. In fact, as a beginning fly angler, this may be the most important video you EVER watch!
If your leader isn’t proper all else is lost.
Our Leader and Tippet Selection: www.madriverout...
Thanks for watching!
~
Subscribe for more fly fishing content: bit.ly/302hEHC
Support the channel, pick something up from our shop: www.madriverou...
www.madriverou...
/ madriveroutfitters
/ madriveroutfitters
/ madriverout
Have a question about this video or anything fly fishing? We're happy to help!
Send Mad River Outfitters an email or give us a call:
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: [phone]
Welcome to Mad River Outfitters, hosted by professional fly fishing guide, Brian Flechsig and his team of fly fishing guides at Mad River Outfitters. On this channel you will find honest fly fishing education, fly fishing tutorials and product reviews. We're passionate about fly fishing and that's what we hope to share here. More information about who we are can be found on our website (www.madriverou...) and also on our Instagram (@madriveroutfitters).

[@drewlyman9995]

“Best to just let him finish Clark.” Slipped that reference in there without skipping a beat. Ha.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Welcome to the club. Very small club.

[@stevewilliamson9995]

That was pure genius.

[@Traveler_357]

Favorite part of the entire series.

[@Domkizzle]

@@Madriveroutfitters is it the Jelly of the Month Club?

[@Madriveroutfitters]

@@Domkizzle please call the shop to sign-up.

[@danielmahoney4663]

I've been making this mistake for 20 years. This has been hands down the most valuable fly fishing video I have ever seen. Thank you.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Daniel Mahoney Glad we could help and thanks for watching. Much more like this to come.

[@mikebrady5652]

Huh! You just showed me something I never knew and I thank you.

[@RayRay2914]

Been fly fishing for a few years now and this changes everything

[@stevec5576]

I have been watching your videos for years , the best , but not enough lately, I support you, please more information, Rock & Roll for ever .

[@Peter-rg4ng]

Biran...the clarity and content of your videos are 10 out of 10. Well done, thanks!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

👍

[@mattevernham978]

"Best just to let him finish, Clark." Well done sir, well done. One of the best movies of all time.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@spennej]

I taught Calculus to West Point football players for three years and appreciate the need to be clear, succinct, and at the level of the students. You are the master of this in your presentations. Thank you.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for being here and for the kind words. Will pass along to Brian for sure.

[@samtucker2529]

I'm currently in my calc class, but this is where I'm really doing my learning.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Not calc but important stuff here. Thanks for watching.

[@EmotionalMasteryIsKe]

Newbie here. Best instructional I’ve seen so far. Very clear, concise - and funny! I laughed out loud at the “casting helmet”.

[@javierarturonavarretecarde9495]

But, what do I do if a fish comes out of water and looks me right between the eyes?

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Run.

[@22kane45]

I'm new to fly fishing, and I'm glad to have watch your videos, especially #9 on leaders. Watched a lot of videos and read a lot on fly fishing, that left more confused then when I started. Your beginners videos is what I should have been watching all along. At 77, I don't have time to waste on how stuff works, since here in west central Ohio, I'm fishing for bass, carp, and cat. There are no trout within a hours drive from where I live. Mahalo Nui Loa for saving me the expense, time, and frustration in learning how to fly fish.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching! Stay tuned and stay in touch.

[@sladefoil2140]

I've seen many tutorials on KZbin for various hobbies and activities and I must say: you guys at Mad River Outfitters have created one of the best and most extensive educational series I have ever seen on KZbin. Truly quality stuff. I've been able to rig my grandpas old rod and get right into fishing thanks to your videos. I'll definitely be supporting Mad River as I love through my fly fishing journey.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and thanks for the super kind words. We really appreciate it!

[@jamestorres963]

I am 60 years old and have always been in awe of fly fishermen, simply because I made the first mistake in believing it was ONLY for people "raised" on it. And that to try to understand the fine details of it were going to be like sitting through a rocket science seminar. Now, after watching this series I have the courage to go out and make the purchase with confidence and feel like as if I can begin my fly fishing chapter of my life. THANK YOU for doing what you do, Keep it up

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and happy to help. We'd love it if you considered Mad River Outfitters for your fly fishing needs. We are here and always ready to help!

[@BeetleBuns]

I normally use a 4x or 5x leader for all my fly fishing, and I've always been frustrated when my casting goes bad using certain flies, so much so that I have quit using those flies altogether. Now I know what was wrong! I'll be picking up a few new leaders today, thanks for this!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Now you know! You can't throw a big fly on a small leader. Glad we could help!!!! We'll look for the order. www.madriveroutfitters.com/c-256-leaders-and-tippets.aspx

[@BeetleBuns]

Mad River Outfitters I'm headed out to RI for a stripers in a few days, I'll just detour through Ohio on my way back to AZ and buy some in person, I've been meaning to fish up there anyways!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Will be great to have you here! Thanks

[@parsonsian]

Thanks for all your videos. Very helpful and I love your teaching style. THANK YOU.

[@JosephMcCanne]

I've listened to many many instructors/fly fishers and NEVER heard anybody explain how to match up tippet to flies so clearly. Thank you!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

joseph mc Glad we could help! Thanks for watching and stay tuned.

[@tiggerwoods8829]

Brian, you talk basic great sense and you deliver excellent advice with humility based on deep knowledge and profound experience. Great video, much appreciated!!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words. We'll pass this along to Brian for sure. He'll be happy to read your words. MRO

[@fitriamanda0985]

Iii

[@aviator12399]

As a 73 year old beginner fly fisherman (hopefully) I find these videos to be the best I have ever come across. Thanks so much for the simple, straightforward presentations. Easy to follow and fun to practice. I especially like your explaining WHY one wants to know this information as well as HOW to do some of these things. Can hardly wait to see more. Thanks again!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and please stay tuned!

[@jamescooper2618]

Finally someone has explained about the tippet. No book I have read has said anything like what I just learned here. Thanks!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

James Cooper Our pleasure. Thanks for watching!!! Glad we could help.

[@rickorell8989]

Just starting in kindergarten FlyFishing. Thankyou for your time and many hours of wisdom to teach one’s such as myself to learn. I have ultimate respect for all professional teachers and instructors. God’s speed to you all.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for being here and please stay tuned.

[@russrydberg4872]

Love the "Christmas Vacation" reference!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

You are the 1st to pick up on that!!! Good work.

[@PubScipio]

Russ Rydberg Good catch!

[@adamp9439]

@@Madriveroutfitters caught it as soon as I heard it and belly laughed for 10 minutes.. late to finding these videos but just starting my fly journey. I did grow up camping at Ohio power in the 80s..

[@MrBearbait75]

Mr H #4 or #5. I've lost track of how many of us "Mr H's have commented.... As others said, priceless, absolutely freaking priceless!!!!! I've been buying according to tracking strength vs fish I was after. Thank you for your willingness to be a teacher not just someone out to sell you something from their shop, etc. Long response but can't sing your praises enough! Blessings!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Paul Wright Glad to help! Thanks a ton for watching.

[@backyardfishing1]

With just trying to get into fly fishing this helps a immensely. I have been searching all over for this type of info and found some decent info but this just made it precise and clear. Thank you!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton! We appreciate you watching. Stay tuned. More to come.

[@joepublic573]

brilliant explanation and well presented. perfect sense.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Appreciate you watching.

[@kennysharp9230]

Absolutely love these videos. I watched them about a year ago when I first started fly fishing and was still a little confused. Now that I have some casting time under my belt, I watched them again and everything you said clicked and made so much more sense. Thank you for all the advice!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Wow, thanks for watching......again. We are honored to help. Please stay tuned.

[@mikeking453]

You are absolutely right that is the most important thing to fly fishing and casting. If you really suck casting you're more than likely give up on the sport and it could only be just something simple as your leader and tippet

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Amen. Thanks for backing us up here. Stay tuned.

[@pastortlc1]

I have been fly fishing for over 20 years and now for the first time, I understand leaders and especially how to pick the right tippet. I have read a lot about the different sizes and the technical aspect, but no one has ever explained the selection of the appropriate tippet so well and simply. Thank you so much! I want a copy of your book when it comes out. Now a question, hand-tied leaders vs. commercially produced tapered leaders. Do you have a preference? Is there an advantage or disadvantage? Thank you again.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Excellent news! Thanks for the feedback and glad to help. We'll of course be announcing the book on our website and Social Media when available. Brian will be doing some future episodes on leaders to correspond with his book. Yes, there are advantages and disadvantages to both, and again, stay tuned....he'll be talking alot about this moving forward. We CAN tell you that he ties his own, but for a beginner, he wants you to loop on a store bought leader and go fishing. Worry about your tippet and tying on a fly for now. More later and always feel free to call him at the shop if you have any questions. He's in the store most every day. 614-451-0363. Stay tuned!

[@strichards5337]

I sent an email into MRO. Got a swift and appropriate reply. Pointed me here, and as Brian suggested, this was exactly what I needed to begin understanding fly leaders. Thank you!!! Wish I could upvote this vid many times.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton! Just keep supporting the shop and that will do just fine!!!

[@wyoruss]

This helped a lot!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Glad to hear! This is probably the MOST important episode in the series. Thanks for watching.

[@MikeScofieldComposer]

As a rookie FF, this is one of the best produced, most informative videos I have watched (and I've watched many). Thanks.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and please stay tuned.

[@adamramerth1409]

That bit about matching fly size to tippet... priceless. No one had informed about that until now and I was wondering why my casting of bigger flys was so god awful on smaller tippet. Many thanks!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Glad to be of help. Thanks for watching and stay tuned.

[@toddking3811]

As someone that taught myself fly-fishing nearly 30 years ago by reading the "Orvis Guide to fly-fishing " selecting the correct leader was something I never learned. Just like "Mr. H" I selected my leaders based on the wrong criteria and bought several from you at the shop about 17 years ago. You taught this old dog a new trick! Thanks Brian!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@TerryG56]

Loving this...thank you! This is my second time through the series. This time, I'm taking notes.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton for watching! Let us know how we can help moving forward.

[@happier0fishin]

I am your average Joe fly fisher I am basically self taught and this series has brought to light a lot of things that I never realized. Thank you for your time and effort.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and please stay tuned!

[@kaneshiro612]

Awesome video! I haven't been fly fishing very long but I've used spinning gear for years. One of the habits that crossed over is that I was indeed purchasing leader/tippet based on the size of the fish I was after. This was eye-opening for me and it makes so much more sense now. You explain things really well and do a great job pointing out where and why people might be having problems. Thank you for making this series!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Outside with Ed Our pleasure! Glad we can help. Please stay tuned.

[@rightmarker1]

This episode really is the best help - clear explanation of leader length/rod length and tippet correct for fly hook size/weight/wind resistance. I’ve been fishing 12 foot leaders on my 9 ft 5 weight and getting frustrated with poor fly delivery and control. THANK YOU. 👍 JC. 🇨🇦🇬🇧

[@Madriveroutfitters]

rightmarker1 Glad it helped. Not an exact science but keeping your leader approximately the same length as your rod will help your casting in general. Especially when you are just getting started.

[@mattstout856]

All I can say is thank you. I’m just getting started and this episode is invaluable!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Glad to help! Thanks for watching!

[@TheBeardedEngineer]

This might single-handedly be the most important fly fishing video I have watched. For three-years, I have been trying to fly fish and always unsuccessfully. I can cast a fly line magnificently in practice, but as soon as a tippet/leader is tied on its a wet mess of coils floating in the water. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

You are not alone. Even many in our industry/shops do not understand the importance here. Thanks for watching.

[@andrewowens9187]

Thank you for the cousin Eddie reference. Made my day

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Jolly Green Glad we could help! Thanks for watching.

[@buckfifty3470]

"Cousin in Law"

[@v8sserieschevy917]

Epic. Just got back into fly fishing bc of these videos, rewatched a lot this morning while fishing. Or listened to anyway lol These are hands down the only fly fishing videos that make sense and isn't someone that trys to impress you the lingo or hippy talk about casting. Practical straight forward real talk. So thankful. Now I fly fish exclusively all thanks to the fly fishing Owen Wilson. 😆

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and please stay tuned.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Funny how Owen Wilson has become known as the Brian Flechsig of acting recently.

[@johnpennington2449]

omg finally Iif makes sense.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Excellent! Thanks for watching.

[@BigFiveJack]

Hi Mr. Flechsig. Jack here again. I just finished episode 9 and I know, due to the very valuable content that I'll be watching it a few more times. You've provided excellent instruction on the leader through and through! I'll say a person diving into the fly fishing sport scores a true treasure when they watch your videos, as they illuminate EVERYTHING one needs to know to enter into this subcategory of angling!!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

BigFiveJack Super glad to help. Thanks again for watching and keep Mad River Outfitters in mind for your fly fishing needs!

[@zazamicofifi]

Thanks for explaining my crap casting for 30 years+"*ç%&/(

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching. Always happy to help.

[@vprinceii]

I just want to thank you for this video. Im watching this series and it answered a question i could never get an answer to. I am a beginner at fly fishing. I found that when i was casting a small fly it look perfect. But when i put on a deer hair mouse it wouldn't go more than a few feet in front of me and that was with the wind helping me. I nearly throughout my shoulder trying to force it out.some places just want to make a sale, and not take the time to teach new people to the sport what you are teaching in these videos. I can tell you im not a quitter but i wanted to that day. When i did as you said and changed the leader it was night and day. Thank you again and God bless

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Victor Principe Thanks a ton for sharing. We really appreciate it and we are honored to help.

[@agooddaytofish2736]

11:42 what, you mean you don’t slam dunk your flies, gotta show them fish you can ball.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Agooddaytofish True. Good point.

[@noahmacleod101]

Bam!

[@ericmonroe8787]

I've been watching this channel for a couple days now as I plan to start fly fishing in the spring. This is a whole new language.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and please stay tuned. Feel free to call the shop if any questions also!

[@Robert-rs7hr]

Hi Brian, from the province of Quebec, Canada, I realky appreciate your videos no mumbo jumbo, clear to the point, easy ti understand. Keep on teaching...cheers!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@GrayHall79]

Uk based (new) fly fisherman........these videos have changed my life! Thankyou!!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton for watching. That's great to hear. Stay tuned.

[@robbergstrom943]

This series is making it easy for this life long spincaster to covert to fly fishing. Great stuff.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here.

[@TrumpDesantis-zm3kg]

I'm brand new to fly fishing and this guy is the best teacher I've seen so far

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and please stay tuned.

[@tomm7301]

Your two episodes on line systems - especially this episode on leaders and tippet - easily provide the best explanation of line components I’ve ever seen or heard! Many thanks!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Tom M Thanks a ton for watching.

[@andrewwinford3361]

I concur with Daniel below. This series, specifically this video (granted I haven't got to the next ones yet) should be required watching. I was that guy standing in front of the wall with all those leaders. 'If you leader sucks' so does 'everything'. I thought my casting was poor. My casting is great. My use of leaders and flies is what is off. So much more to learn. Thank you Brian, you fluffy headed fish hippie!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for watching and please stay tuned.

[@delwigzieful]

I have been fly-fishing almost 12 months it was watching this series by BRIAN and mad river outfitters that got me into how to understand fly-fishing this series in my opinion is the best series ever made for the beginner and the intermediate angler i listened to Brians advice bought myself a 8# 9ft 6in med fast fly rod bought my leaders i can't tell you how valuable Brians experience in Leaders was to me i went fly-fishing for the first time caught 7 nice fish it took me about 1 hour to learn the basics of the cast 3 days to get the cast to perfection all this i Learned from watching this incredible series from Brian so Brian THANK YOU SO MUCH Derek

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching. We are honored to help. Hope you will consider Mad River Outfitters for your future fly fishing needs.

[@delwigzieful]

I'm from uk but i intend to visit your store as soon as this covid19 Lockdown is over stay safe all,Derek

[@wesleyshafer6310]

This may be the best video I have seen. I was fishing a heavy weighted wolly bugger and a a leader with 5x tippet tied on. My fly line would go nicely and then dump the pile of leader and fly at the the end. Thank you so much.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

So common and the most mis-understood part of fly fishing. Glad we could help you out! Stay tuned.

[@abdullahbarak8343]

By the far the most useful videos I have watched since 2014 about fly fishing. Very good job Mr. Flechsig

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton for watching and stay tuned! Will pass along to Brian.

[@matteodefrancesco1213]

wow, i don't even have a rod yet..but i know a lot of things more than yesterday! you're contents are super. one of the best teacher here on yt. clear, simple, but still exhaustive. if all techers wer like you in primary and seconary school we would live in a far better world.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and please stay tuned. Let us know when you are ready for a rod. We can help.

[@jhodge115]

Just returned back to GA from fishing the middle Provo in Utah (literally, like 2hours ago). My 16 yo son and I went with a great guide (thanks Fish Heads!), and this has ignited the passion again as I had casually tried it years ago. And my son, he’s now addicted. These videos are great and will be our friend as my son and I strengthen our trying relationship that has crippled us recently. Fish on!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and very happy to help. Please stay tuned.

[@DavidKasan]

Brian, Michael Bennett may have been the Dr., but you are a Professor. Your method of teaching is so clear and concise! I am watching all of your "Getting Started" series in order and find myself stopping to take notes. That is a sure sign of a great teacher! You have both taught so much, along with clearing up so many misconceptions. Thank you Sir.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for the kind words. Brian often says he is carrying Michael's legacy forward and always give him credit for much of what he does and who he is.

[@OhEmGeeGee]

Straight up the most important video on fly fishing I've watched so far. Made so many things fit in place and make sense

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for being here. Happy to help!

[@coreydean4009]

By far the best fly fishing advice I’ve come across as a beginning fly fisherman. Thanks.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here.

[@Leftycraig48]

Brian - I have a son who expects to retire in the next 5 years or so, so I thought it a good idea to introduce him to the "mysterious" world of fly fishing. I've been watching your videos for about 2 years now and gained a ton of knowkedge from them. I sent him a fly fishing outfit for his birthday, but due to the long distance between us, I'm unable to provide any in-person instruction, so I referred him to your Getting Started in Fly Fishing series. I've found alot of bad advice on the web, but your step by step guidance is absoluteely spot on. Thanks!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for being here and please stay tuned.

[@mikefriend7449]

Brian, what a teacher you are, yes I have got to watch your video more than once to get it in to my head but I’m learning thank you. Mike Portsmouth I England,.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnnyrotten3116]

I find myself watching these videos as I progress in my fly fishing endeavors and my instinct when I find useful things on youtube is to subscribe, but I go to hit the button and find that I am already subscribed. Presentation matters and this was excellent!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here….and subscribing again.

[@HalfInsaneOutdoorGuy]

This is one of the best and clearest explanations on this subject I've found. I've only been fly fishing since May though (2022) So i'm new as they get. Even so this hobby has consumed me and taken over my saturday Mornings and sometimes 2 or 3 times a week after work. Why I didnt start fly fishing or fishing in general sooner I'll never know! I've been teaching people survival since 2017!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here.

[@1radarghost]

I've was given a Scientific fly rod and reel years ago and it was just collecting dust. You make it sound easier than the snobs at the fly shops I've stopped and talked to. I'm going to go ahead and pull it out and try my hand at it. Thanks for the video series.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

1radarghost Thanks for watching and let us know how we can help moving forward.

[@tomdow02]

Thanks Brian. I can't explain how much that has helped me. The whole series is a Collectors item. Many thanks. Tom in Dublin Ireland

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton Tom. We appreciate you watching and please stay tuned.

[@filterBean]

I think I've probably watched close to 100 hours of how-to fly fishing videos on youtube (many from this channel) and this was the single most useful one that I can think of, thank you.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much. Stay tuned.....much more to come.

[@gfishin1332]

Started fly fishing for 50 years ago. Wish this video would have been around then - it would have saved me a lot of frustration. Luckily when I got married, my father-in-law was a very good flycaster and fisherman and was able to guide me through the fundamentals. For many years, I tied my own leaders using leader material from Orvis. The past few years, however, I tend to buy tapered leaders. Maybe I'm getting lazy in my retirement years. Last winter I watched a lot of Kelly's videos (which I really enjoyed) and was not aware of yours. Stumbled upon your stuff recently and really like your teaching style, expertise and willingness to simplify and take some of the elitism out of fly fishing. Like your advice to beginners regarding rods and reels. I remember a sport show I attended 35 years ago or so. Lefty Kreh made a cast of 100 feet using only the tip of his fly rod. I remember that lesson every time I try to blame my rod for a bad cast!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching!

[@stephenbaehr6936]

I am new to fly fishing. This video taught me a lot. I now see why I have been having a lot of problems casting certain flies. Will have to stop in soon for new leaders and tippet. Love the videos!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks and glad you are enjoying. Stay tuned!

[@georgegoddard9636]

I’m just wanting to get started in fly fishing. Your first several videos taught me a lot. Now after this one I feel like my head is going to explode! Guess I’m going to have to watch it a few more times because I’m overwhelmed

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@justinmorris2915]

Just walked out to the garage and checked my leaders... 7.5ft 5x... I bought them solely based on the lb test rating lol. Looks like I'll be heading to your site to buy some proper length and x-rating leaders before my trip to Idaho later this month. Thanks for the really informative videos! I've had my Cabela's fly rod/reel for years and it has sat collecting dust because its been too intimidating to learn all this stuff, but your videos have been a major help and confidence booster. Hopefully I can begin catching trout on the fly rod this summer instead of just going back to the comfort zone of the spinning rod.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Justin Morris Glad to help. Thanks for being here and stay tuned.

[@j1xcalibur]

Whoa! This was evolutionary!! I've realized my two biggest mistakes for terrible casts. Cheap fly line + too short and wrong size tippet! Thank you for excellent explanation

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching. Never been called "Evloutionary" before though. That's cool.

[@philmann3476]

For years I always understood that tippet selection depended mostly on such things as the fish you were after (i.e, trout vs. everything else) the waters you fished (i.e, vaguely located "small but charming," and "enchanted but obscure" streams somewhere in the Northeast), education (Ivy vs. everything else) and, most of all, your budget. Seriously, many thanks for taking the mystery out of this and pointing out it's basically a matter of elementary physics after all. Although I have been a casual fly fisherman for nearly half a century, I never really understood it until now. Many thanks.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching! Happy to help.

[@ottiehund]

I am exactly that guy you talk about around 12 minutes into the video. Now I understand I am not simply 'rusty' with my casting but cutting back my leaders and not matching tippet size to my fly size will be causing a lot (or all) of my problems with casting/presentation. Well explained and thanks from downunder.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching. We are happy to be of service. Stay in touch and stay tuned.

[@oakessw]

Hello all the way from England. I wanted to thank you for taking the time to explain fly fishing in these videos. You've unpacked the concepts in a digestible way, it's very much appreciated.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

We appreciate you being here. Stay tuned and stay in touch.

[@milanbogdanovic6120]

Brian, what a vital asset you are for the fly fishing community worldwide! I cannot thank you enough and pls keep up the invaluable help to all of us! My best brother...

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Wow thanks a ton. Hopefully he won't see this here. Might go to his head.......naw....we'll tell him. Please stay tuned. After 30 years in the biz he's just getting warmed up.

[@milanbogdanovic6120]

@@Madriveroutfitters LOL!!! You guys and gals are a one stop shop for knowledge, know how, and gear and I will be staying tuned! Hope to call and talk soon. Peace!

[@korygilbert8208]

Incredibly helpful. Thanks so much!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@glennmcilvenna3142]

Listening to you is so informing I’ve literally just started on my journey to learn to fish at the tender age of 43 because my son age nine wants to try it and in the past few days I’ve been watching your videos and I have learned so much from you it is amazing thank you for sharing your wisdom I really feel much more confident in what I’m doing thanks

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here. We are happy to help. Please stay tuned.

[@davidleimeister5027]

Probably the best video and instruction on leaders and tippets i have ever seen. Brian you are a masterful teacher. Thanks so much.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for that. We appreciate you watching.

[@horseshoeshandgrenades5384]

I tell ya what man. I have spent the last couple hours watching your videos and I have learned so much. This was the best one. I have wemt from knowing nothing about fly fishing to feeling alot less intimidated by it. I cannot wait to get out and do some fishin! Thanks alot

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for watching.

[@derekperez5898]

Just got my Synch combo. Watched and read a crap ton of articles and videos online. This channel and the way you feed the info (as well as the production quality) is my favorite. This specific video is right on. I'm out in Colorado and normally support local but you've given me so much value I will use your store in the rotation as well. Thank you, please keep it up, hope all is well, and keep paying whoever is helping make these videos a handsome salary.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Derek Perez Wow that’s awesome. Thanks for watching and we’d appreciate the support.

[@johnparker3578]

These videos are so valuable and save so much trial & error with me me as a beginner in the sport. I'm seeing that having the correct Fly line system all the way from leader to tippet is so critical. The tippet calculation according to hook size so critical as well..Thank you very much Brian. Keep up the great work.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and yes…..critical information. Please stay tuned.

[@marcgoyan8455]

The most to the point leader video. De-mystified everything. Thank you Brian

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here. We really appreciate it.

[@mr.noneyabidness]

Also, thank you very much. I just found these videos and I have learned more in 3 days than I have in 30 years of trial and error.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@rickyh2769]

i’ve been trying to figure out the leader butt tippet question for years…you have done more for my fly fishing education in 18:52 than in the previous 20 years combined…where were you 20 years ago???…outstanding job!!!..

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here. We've been right here at Mad River Outfitters.....31 years and counting. Stay tuned.

[@patrickward1783]

As someone who is getting back into fly fishing after a long absence, I now (finally) understand what size leader I need...And I think you just helped me cast better. Thank you :-)

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@omarcurbelo5342]

This video needs to be shared with everyone who is starting

[@Madriveroutfitters]

We agree! Thanks for being here.

[@irishcoffeys]

Me and my dad had to make a weird knot around the fly because we didn’t know the tippet was the wrong size so helpful thank you

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Ken Coffey Glad to help! Thanks for watching.

[@doloresrohn4699]

My FAVORITE channel!!! Cut and dry info! Great video. Brian...you’re an excellent teacher. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for being here and please stay tuned.

[@saltlakeanimalphysicalther3609]

I've been fly fishing for 7 years and never really understood this. This is a real game changer!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and happy to help!

[@tonymisner8907]

Brian, this is a GREAT series of videos. Thank you for all your hard work. One of the most refreshing things is these are NOT sales pitches and all about educating the "student". I have been out of fly fishing for over 10 years and have decided to restart the joys of the western trout streams. Thank you for helping to reignite my passion and blow the cobwebs out of my mind. Well done!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks a ton for being here! He is selling though....just Mad River Outfitters in general. Stay tuned and we appreciate the kind words.

[@emarinus]

This is incredibly helpful. Someone tried to explain this to me, but the way content of this lesson is arranged and explained made it much easier to understand. Thank you so much for this series!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching and please stay tuned.

[@samplays4421]

Finally, I understand. Thank you for the information. I've been a bass fisherman all my life. Tried fly fishing 3yrs ago; seemed too complicated at the time... my 8yr old asked about the rod last week and wanted to try it. He loves it. I took my boy and my friends daughter out this past weekend. They had a blast. Thank you for videos. I don't have time to read several books at the moment. These videos gave me enough knowledge to help me understand fly fishing setups well enough to pass it on to the kids.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching.

[@christophercollins2330]

I feel so lucky to have found you out of nowhere. You were the first channel I chose to watch and it's been a gift. I'm a beginner fly fisherman. And I have learned a tremendous amount of great fundamental knowledge that I will have forever. It's been years since I have fly fished. I've recently began to collect fly fishing equipment and can't wait use it. Thanks for all your help.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Glad you found us. Let us know how we can help moving forward.

[@christophercollins2330]

@@Madriveroutfitters can't wait to order some gear from your website. It's perfect for me because I get the opportunity to have professional service and advice when I choose a fly rod and reel plus the huge benefit of having the reel set up too.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Christopher Collins Thanks. We are always happy to help and will always steer you straight.

[@vadimkononenko4701]

I love your videos man! Thanks so much! You are giving beginners like myself a chance at fly fishing. Couldn’t have done most of it without these videos. Nobody else would take the time to help me. Again thanks for your time.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Vadim Kononenko Thanks a ton for watching and for the kind words. Stay tuned, alot more to come!

[@lizardwizardreptiles6213]

This video blew my mind. No joke. I’ll definitely refer back to this. My casting is shit because it would seem I’m over thinking everything. These videos are giving me some great insight.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Glad to help. Stay tuned......we'll blow your mind again and again.

[@Hesirontuff]

This is seriously seriously helpful. I've done some fly fishing but it's all from junk stored at the cabin from 20-30 years ago. With no knowledge of the gear or line passed down. Getting a hooking gauge would be great! I can't wait to keep watching this series.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and please stay tuned.

[@paleh0rse]

"best just to let him finish, Clark" LOL!! Best reference I've ever heard in a how-to video. Well done, sir!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching. It's really good advice if you think about it.

[@paleh0rse]

@@Madriveroutfitters - Indeed. Eddie also taught us to never be afraid to ask for help, and that's why I'm here. Thanks for the videos!

[@pewter02ws6]

I'm really glad that I stumbled across this video. This has been the most informative for a newbie getting into fly fishing.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for watching. Stay tuned and watch more!

[@delwigzieful]

Hi brian I'm from the uk best beginners series ever filmed on Fly fishing absolutely fantastic simple but very important information so easily explained by you brian i have just started fly-fishing and loving it if it wasn't for mad rivers outfitters and especially brian i would not be fly-fishing today so especially to brian thank you very much for all your time and patience making this wonderful fly-fishing series for beginners like me i appreciate so much thank you very much brian i will be trying to get a copy of your new book THE END OF THE LINE will be difficult here in the uk to get a copy Derek

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks so much for watching. We'll be happy to ship you a book when available. Easy. Stay in touch.

[@derekosiecki]

As a newbie, this is SOOOO helpful!!! Thank you Brian.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for being here and please stay tuned.

[@NaTopcho]

Finally I found the answer of my question ( what leader I need for size 12 fly)... Awesome video. I just starting fly fishing and now you make it clear with all these episodes what I need and how to do it. A lot of videos on KZbin but no one explain how to match fly leaders with fly sizes. 10 out of 10 fo sure. 👍👍👍

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Thanks for watching. We are happy to help. Stay in touch and stay tuned.

[@chardhin9185]

New to fly fishing. These videos are very helpful. I live in central Pennsylvania and fly fishing has been a goal of mine. Thanks for the information and I will have to make a trip to Ohio someday to check our your shop and say thanks in person.

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Char dHin Glad to help. Thanks for watching.

[@gregelliott9498]

Maybe the most important and enlightening video I have watched out of 100 videos. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@Madriveroutfitters]

Greg Elliott Thanks for being here.