Winter MIDGE Fly Fishing On the San Juan River Tailwater for Trout - McFly Angler Episode 1

[@mizzyride]

This video is straight up RAD. The filming, editing, music.. ON point. Can't wait to check out your other videos.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks...

[@al.trzy_blu.e]

the more real videos like this i watch, the more i am becoming interested in fly fishing... thanks for an honest look at your adventures, really gets me excited for spring...

[@McFlyAngler]

Hey, thanks! glad you liked it! :)

[@gerardgrabler9392]

I'm so glad to see that your a real normal person with problems when you go fishing. I enjoy the trips to San Juan, a lot of information. I'm a basically a bottom fishing type of guy, but after watching you with your troubles and succeeding catching, makes me think I might try it this new year. Thanks MCFLY

[@McFlyAngler]

Glad you liked it! Yeah, we all have issues while fishing. However I finally had a victory the last trip I took. That video uploads next thursday, so please check it out!

[@alexdoe9970]

Hello ! I'm from Russia, Your video reminded me of my homeland Kamchatka-beautiful rivers, beautiful mountains !!! Super video !!! Big Thank You !

[@McFlyAngler]

Thank you!

[@gabrielflores350]

Quite a shame for people to just be flat out rude. Sorry about those idiots, ignore them.... Dude you got a good taste of them San Juan Midge Blues. If you were hooking into quality fish your first trip to the Juan, I would not consider that a loss. Couple tips and tricks. Your patient but learn to play the fish. Trust your knots and try to move down stream to the trout when you hook up. San Juan fish will move up but hate to move holes. They'll make a few runs, (depending on the size of course) then give you your shot to bag em. Also, before touching any fish be sure to wet your hands. Thanks for posting hd of my home waters, and treating the fishery with respect. That goes far enough for me. Cheers.

[@McFlyAngler]

well, you put yourself out there on the internet your bound to get some people that need to pick on others to feel better about themselves. Really its no big deal. It wasnt my first trip to the Juan, I had gone many times before that. For some reason though, when filming, all things change. HAHA This was my first time ever filming myself fish. I have since gotten the hang of filming while fishing. Check out my other vids, I have some really nice fish that I have gotten on camera the last 6 months. Yes, I actually have a video where I talk about wetting your hands before handling fish. While, I don't think it will instantly kill fish if you don't, and many will survive if you don't, its always a good idea to do your best to keep fish as healthy as possible. One thing I stress very much with my channel. Thanks for commenting man! Tight lines! :)

[@fishingmichigan2118]

Guys chill he's doing what he loves, I've been fly fishing for a year and I've yet to land a fish, let him love his life and the more he does it the better he will get

[@McFlyAngler]

First time filming... watch the newer videos. Lol

[@geraldg7420]

Very entertaining. Thanks. Large fish on tiny fly. Tiny fish on large fly. You are very fortunate to have that wonderful river so handy. Tight lines.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks Gerald! :)

[@keote]

very informative. I was just out on the SJ over a couple weekends. Its good to learn from other people's successes and failures.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks for watching. I’m glad you enjoyed the video. Check out some of my other videos on the San Juan also as I do have quite a few where I caught and showed how to bring these in on small little flies

[@ThorBonloveng]

This is one of the best flyfishing videos I’ve seen! Nice to see that pros also can make a mistake sometimes. Beautiful scenery and great entertainment. From now on I’m a subscriber. Thanks!

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol thanks! I’m definitely not a pro though, but yes the pros do make mistakes. Everyone always watches the fishing shows and think to themselves that these people can go out and catch 100 fish in 10 minutes but don’t realize that that’s filmed over a few days and edited to look like a 10 minute fishing adventure. Haha. Fishing isn’t always perfect.

[@michaelchastain4957]

Awesome "real" fishing! You catch some, lose some but that is real. Last Saturday my fly rod broke on a fish. I didn't land it, but what a tale!

[@McFlyAngler]

Im so sorry to hear about your rod, that sucks! They become special, so its always a heart break when a rod has to go in the garbage. :( Thanks for the nice comment. :)

[@keiranrooker7981]

Michael Chastain make sure your looking at your rod weights before you go for a specific species I have a 7/8 weight for bass pike .etc and a 2 weight nymphing rod for trout panfish small bass and small carp like really small carp maybe a pound or two if there’s bigger ones I switch to my 7/8 weight or my 6 weight rod you need a lot of rods for fly fishing l

[@billrisley47]

Man I miss the San Juan. Lived in Farmington for 8 years and fished the river from October to Feb. 3x's a week. Had the pleasure of fishing with Chuck Rizzuto a few times on the river and we also fished bass tournaments on the Navajo. Great video, thanks for bringing back some memories.

[@McFlyAngler]

Glad you liked it. Lucky you! 3 times a week? I get to go only about once a week, and sometimes I have to skip that week. But thats what you get when you are married with kids. HAHA Well next time your down in the area visiting Message me and maybe we can go fish together! I could always use some help from someone that fished here so often.

[@McFlyAngler]

Same here, miss It a lot.

[@gilbertamthor5098]

So awesome! Hillarious. Great video

[@McFlyAngler]

Glad you liked the video

[@FlyFishing-ii5sv]

I am thinking about taking a trip down that way this summer. I grew up in the San Luis Valley and would like to hit the SJR and the Conejos River. Great video

[@McFlyAngler]

Glad you liked it, and yeah you would love fishing this river. It is tough at times, but also you will hook them for sure!

[@mikeyjacks4125]

I love going to see my uncle in NM and fishing the San Juan!

[@McFlyAngler]

Oh it’s a great river yeah! Check out some of my other videos on the river where I actually catch. This was my first fishing video ever and I messed it up. Haha! I’ve got some great ones with lots of fish!

[@mikeyjacks4125]

@@McFlyAngler It is a good place for all sorts of people. You can catch a ton of small trout or some of those 3 pound rainbows!

[@McFlyAngler]

For sure!

[@Jumpingoffthecliff]

You do I nice job with your shooting and editing. I don’t think most people re what it takes to put together even a bad video, let alone a good one!

[@McFlyAngler]

Thank you, thats kind of you.

[@westinyancey]

Grat job on the video guys. Keep it up!

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks, its actually just me, no one else filming, editing, or anything. One man show... Thank you though! :)

[@bigpapi3636]

I have the same issue with trying to get a net angle on the bigger fish. I've gone to a collapsible, long handle net and I'm going to try the needle and superglue leader to fly line attachment so I can reel in leader without it getting stuck on the guides. Love this video! Thanks for showing lost as well as landed fish. I've gone strictly barbless and its doubled my lost fish rate, especially with #18 and smaller flies.

[@McFlyAngler]

Good thinking with the net and attachment. Ever try doing just a nail not, then smoothing it out with something like Solarez Flex, or Loon Knot Sense? They are flexible UV curing resins that work well to smooth out knots.

[@bigpapi3636]

Mc. Fly Lures I never thought about the nail knot and UV cure but I'm headed to Amazon right now to get some. Great idea. Very happy I found your channel!

[@McFlyAngler]

Im glad you are here as well. thanks for the sub and your chat.

[@jamesjames1847]

Like the honesty! Life's funny huh?: There's a trout at your fingertips that you're trying to get hold of to unhook, but then it saves us the trouble by self releasing, and yet we feel pissed...

[@McFlyAngler]

+James James yeah I mean I guess it did save me some time, also made for a pretty interesting video in my Opinion...

[@nolanminor6761]

If they are really pressured, why do they let you stand over top of them like that? I live in Virginia and all of the wild trout I fish for, especially big ones, almost have to be stalked like you're hunting a deer.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Nolan Minor yeah, it's a deep hole and super fast moving there. I don't do that at every spot...

[@nolanminor6761]

Hats off to you for being able to, midge fishing is crazy. I have only done it once or twice and I watched my buddy lose a brown that was easily 25" on 7x tippet haha

[@McFlyAngler]

yeah a 25" brown on 7x? I would loose him as well...

[@erisen99]

the san juan is nursery school for fly fishing. I've been casting to a group of fish while 4 are sitting right at my feet. very unique river with heavy pressure, small flies, and 20+ fish days possible.

[@McFlyAngler]

Yes, I have had those 20+ fish days there. In fact, the 2nd time I ever fished the river I probably landed 20 in like 1.5 hours, and decided I was done and went home cause I was getting bored. HAHA. There are times that it is super easy... But like anything, its not always easy. They say that there is more fish per mile of that river then any in the US? Maybe that is just locals trying to sound cool, but thats what I hear.

[@ariellevin3008]

I learn more from you mistakes than all the 'hero' shots on the internet. I'm heading up to SJ on October 28 and then the Animas. I'll keep that drag in mind!

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks, yep this is why I put this video up. I don’t care about people thinking I’m an amazing fisherman or anything. Not trying to brag on my fishing abilities. I’m just trying to make entertaining videos and hope to helps someone learn something along the way.

[@Scovophoto]

Super video, I can say I have certainly looked just like you in that video losing fish and dropping my net and all kinds of other big leaguer bloopers:)

[@McFlyAngler]

+Bob Scoverski haha yeah it happens!

[@Allias1121]

Nice video, my man! Nothing like a beautiful day on a calm river. Tight lines!

[@McFlyAngler]

Right? Love being on the river. Thanks man! I appreciate it! :)

[@troutking72]

Great video, McFly!! I've fished "The Juan" lots and this whets my appetite for my next trip in June. Those fish are so thick in there, you'd think it would be easy. Quite the contrary, as they get fished 365 days a year. Keep the vids coming!!Cheers!!

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah they are quite pressured, I haven't ever gone fishing there without a crowd. Even the last time I went there were only 3 cars in the parking lot, but still a fair amount of people on the river. This is why I go to places like "Big Rock Hole" because there are usually less people. They stay in Texas Hole or Kiddie Hole which are easier to get to. Maybe I will see you up there some time..

[@nicklovato2658]

What is that 2x4 floating in the water attached to your back used for not the net but that other thingamajig????

[@McFlyAngler]

wading staff

[@tomgregory6275]

McFly, it is catch and release only in the Quality Waters, at 11:56 you said "I started catching and keeping fish" so I know that you meant keeping them until they were netted but some one unfarmilar with the rules might think you were literally taking them, so watch those words that give some a misleading statement, also wet your hands well before handling them, the dry human hand grasping the fish will remove a protective coating on the outside of the fish body. Good work on the video and you are selecting the correct fly for that place and time,,,,good job sport!

[@McFlyAngler]

This was my very first video, and I don’t remember it too much (I’ve had 76 fishing videos since). If someone goes and keeps fish at the quality water section because of this video then that person would be kinda dumb I think. Haha! I always wet my hands.

[@MrTurnerhorn]

Keep on making videos man! The shots were beautiful and the fishing real.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Stephen Janacek thanks! I will

[@tedneff7676]

Nice job McFly. Your doin it Dude. Great water

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah, I find it funny, my worst day on the water gets the most views! Haha.

[@sierraelec7105]

Pretty Cool McFly I will be fishing the San Juan river Christmas week with Wes from Reel Life in Santa Fe. I caught a rainbow trout last week on the Pecos river fly fishing. Nice video I only catch and relese on my videos.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks glad you liked it, good luck on your trip

[@goodtimes2353]

Hello McFly, just found your channel and liked it very much. Greetings from Austria!

[@McFlyAngler]

Thank you! Welcome! How’s the fishing out in Austria? Still winter?

[@goodtimes2353]

To be honest, I haven't been fishing for years, but I think about a restart! Your videos gonna help me making the right desicion... :-) I live in Salzburg, snow has already left the town, but rain came over it... Where are you from? Colorado? In Austria we also have great places to fish, that's for sure... Maybe you come overseas to prove me wrong? :-)

[@McFlyAngler]

I would love to come fish there man! Gosh I wish I had the money to travel that far. It’s hard to even get away to travel from one side of Colorado to the other. Haha

[@goodtimes2353]

Maybe it will work out someday, you never know... Already spent three hours on your vids, well done every single one... Keep going... puh already close to Midnight, time to get some sleep... Happy eastern to you and your family...

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks for watching friend! Sleep well!

[@featheredhooks5294]

love the 3rd person camera angle. can you share the camera and lens choice? I want to up my camera game.. love that river , i'll be back in November for some fall fish.

[@McFlyAngler]

It was a simple hand held camera. I don't use that one anymore as I dunked it in the river. I think it was a canon. But don't remember the model sorry.

[@featheredhooks5294]

@@McFlyAngler thanks McFly . Hope to see you on the water 👊🏻

[@McFlyAngler]

For sure, I live in Texas now though….

[@12ernie]

Good video! Show it all, that's what makes it real! Ernie

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks! I think though just for time's sake. I might need to cut out a bit of the fighting. No one wants to sit there and watch me fight a fish for 10 minutes. HAHA But yeah, I will show all the mistakes as well as the victories. Glad you liked it! :)

[@tempestwolf_]

Just subbed have never been north of New Mexico I stay down in the south East part near Roswell NM Glad to see more Videos Here in the state.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks for the sub. How is the fishing down there? What rivers do you fish there in Roswell? Is there one in Roswell? I don't know the area too well, except that there are aliens or something. lol Also, my wife and I stay there sometimes when we drive down to Texas to visit family... Its about half way to the inlaws. But they shut down the Best Western we stay at usually the last time we went. :-(

[@tempestwolf_]

Down here not many rivers to fish. most of my fishing is out of lakes. We do have a few streams that come from the mountain reign just about 90 miles west of Roswell that hold a good number of trout. If you go more towards Cloudcroft there are German Brown Trout that swim up and down those streams.

[@McFlyAngler]

Oh, yeah I figured it was more lake fishing there. I never see any rivers around there. What type of fish do you fish for from the lakes? Trout, Bass, Pike?

[@Chrisgalin]

Yeah, I used a 7wt and that was overkill. I lost a lot of fish. I always go in the summer. Bunny hair leech and cartoon fly works amazing! Some of the best fishing ever!

[@McFlyAngler]

It’s good for sure, and yeah, I actually prefer a 10’ 3wt to fish here now.

[@allenjones1947]

first vid ive seen by you 😂 instant subscribe on that trout release

[@McFlyAngler]

+ThatGingerKid23 glad you liked it. Yeah I try to release them easy without handling them... ;). Haha. Check out my newest fishing video also, it was uploaded this past Thursday's. Thanks for the sub!

[@aaronarms5982]

I've seen quite a few videos can you have put together and I have to say I'm a fan and you have an act for it. I have to admit I'm pretty jealous you're surrounded up there by all that great trout fishing. And I'm tied down here in Oklahoma. Keep up the good work and I hope to be up around your neck of the woods someday wadng them streams and catching them trout. Oklahoma does have a really good trout stream in Southeastern Oklahoma Beavers Bend on Broken Bow Lake or below the dam, they built it and introduce the trout and the trout have taken over and run a spawn. You should give it a try sometime

[@McFlyAngler]

Hey thanks! Yeah Oklahoma, kinda far from me. But if I ever get a chance I’ll let ya know.

[@johncamera602]

Great Vid. Like the fact that your real, and like the music

[@McFlyAngler]

+John C thanks John!

[@kennethewald1189]

I fished the San Juan with a guide in 2000. Great time! After that trip, my wife built a custom Sage rod for me and later bought me a Bauer reel. Sadly, I don't used them as much as I ought to. And, I live about 30 miles from the Guadalupe River below Canyon Dam in Texas which is also a great trout stream. All of the access on that stream is privately owned though some allow fishing via a TPWD program.

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah the San Juan is awesome! Just kinda tough, especially in winter. Man, I bet that sage rod is awesome! Which blank did she use? I used to live in Austin and San Antonio, so I know the Guadalupe well. However I didnt have a boat at the time, and I was always worried about water moccasins for wading. However I did know some people who owned homes on it and would fish off their docs and stuff. Great river for bass!

[@kennethewald1189]

The blank is a SAGE SP590-3. No longer made, but was top of the line back then. 5 wt.

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah I used to see them all the time in San Antonio... All the waters there are filled with water snakes...

[@brittpereira8554]

Great video looks like fun thanks

[@McFlyAngler]

+Britt Pereira glad you liked it

[@brittpereira8554]

McFly Angler I found you on KZbin just after my trip to Durango it's a great town very helpful fly shops.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Britt Pereira there really is nothing better than Durango I love it here

[@redshaftedflicker]

I've never fished the San Juan, but it reminds me of the Owyhee at least a lil bit in that first section. Although you didn't land the larger models, my hat's off to you for making the attempt. 6x is a dicey one for heavy fish no matter what! Large streamers and 0x--more of my thing, haha-but it doesn't mean that it is the most effective way to hook large trout.

[@McFlyAngler]

+redshaftedflicker I've never fished the owyhee, so I can't compare. Thanks for the kind words. Yeah I have gotten some of the larger trout (22" is my largest on that river) however never on video. I'm determined! I will keep making vids till I get a pig. Lol. I might try upsizing my fly next time to size 24 and my line to 5x flouro. See if that helps. Maybe I can actually land the fish when I hook them.

[@redshaftedflicker]

5x fluoro and a 24--you'll get 'em in on that! I'm a huge believer in fluoro especially on pressures waters. I fished side by side on the same setup with a guy but he had the fluoro-3 to one in his favor. Tight heavy pig lines!

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah, I was fishing some flouro actually, but the 6x verity then. I will try a 5x next time and up the size of my fly. I will tie them a bit short so they are about the same size for the body, but it will give me an extra hook gap for keeping those pigs pinned. I only snapped off once, The rest of them just threw the hook that trip. Ripped right out of their mouths every time I put any bit of pressure.

[@McFlyAngler]

16 would be wayyyy too large for this river. Even 20 is too large. They won't even look at a fly over 24. You have a lot better hookup chance at size 28-32 though. However the lake the river is coming from is starting to turn over, and the water on the river is getting cloudy. So I might be able to get away with a 22-24 soon.

[@bobbyjoemaster69]

and now we know where the san juan worm came from! one of my personal favorites when drifting for stocked trout!

[@McFlyAngler]

+tj fritz it's a great fly for sure!

[@jerodhowe6291]

I might have to try to make the drive up there from Clovis and do some fishing some time. I really want to hit a fly shop just starting to fly fish I have a lot to learn.

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah man, its a good river to learn on, especially now that the water has subsided a bit. Recently they had something called "high water" where they release like 10x more water into the river. But I hear its back to normal now. Also, its got a lot of opportunity for new fisherman to catch fish. Let me know how you do! :)

[@StefanoMaldarelli]

Why don't you try fishing without the signal? the line will be lighter. maybe you can make the tippet of different colors to see the depth of the bait ... Great video and nice place

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol my very first video and unfortunately the one that went viral and got lots of views. Check out my other videos. Especially the ones in 2018, lots of good fish were caught.

[@abefrohman1759]

Just found your channel and look forward to going through your videos. Merry Christmas.

[@McFlyAngler]

+abe frohman merry Christmas! Thanks!

[@drawgud]

ya move around more, especially in that main channel there! step off in that 10 foot hole and drown or if your lucky sprain an ankle on those sandstone rocks that go from a foot deep to 3 feet deep! :) Love your vids keep em coming.

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol thanks! Yeah you don’t move much in this spot... haha

[@andydavidson4108]

A few years ago the midge hatch on the Bighorn was so heavy that you could not distinguish your fly from the naturals. That night after cooking supper I tied a #22 different midge emerger (my own pattern) and the next day two of us had strikes on every cast (did not get constant hook-ups because of the small hook) for an hour until the hatch ended.

[@McFlyAngler]

Cool!

[@philipvankampen3394]

4:44 Damn, hurts doesn't it ... ha ha ha .. Filming yourself fish changes the game. I personally don't like to do it, but I'm glad some do.

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol, I’ve gotten better at the filming thing. This was my first fishing video. Check out my newer videos.

[@john411ize]

Good job man! Looks cold

[@McFlyAngler]

It was! Lol

[@eXprolaL]

Nice video! I can't wait for the summer to go fly fishing again :) Greetings from Norway, we have some great rivers here too. I just learned fly fishing last season, so again, I can't wait for the summer/spring :)

[@McFlyAngler]

+SM King I'm blessed to be able to fish all year round. Norway though I hear is beautiful. How do you like it there?

[@ferniea92]

I enjoyed your video , from Alamogordo, NM.

[@McFlyAngler]

I’m really glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching

[@goergehanson2694]

Don't listen to the dipshits bro. You make great videos and I very much enjoyed the morning I was able to fish the Texas Hole with you. Tight lines McFly!!

[@McFlyAngler]

+Goerge Hanson hey George! How r things? Thanks a lot. Yeah don't worry I don't listen to a word some people say. Haha

[@McFlyAngler]

George, sorry I just noticed this has a cuss word in the comment. I apologize but I need to take down the comment. I will in a few minutes hopefully you read this. I appreciate your kind words, and comment, but I work hard to make a friendly environment for all types of people on my channel, and remove any comments with cuss words. Just incase an adolescent is watching, or an older person. They might be offended.

[@bryansteurer1034]

Lol I can't tell if this is a joke

[@aggyuvf]

Loads of Midges here in Scotland wee buggers are everywhere during the summer and have loads of wee flies that look like them so will give it ago when the better weather arrives (if ever )

[@McFlyAngler]

+Punkarama come out here.. the weather is almost always great!

[@Jkannen]

@mcflyangler, do you switch your leader and tipper to a larger size when you go from a nymph or light dry to streamers?

[@McFlyAngler]

Yes, I do.

[@philliptaylor5981]

Dude! Awesome, hilarious!

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol thanks! 1st fishing video btw... haha! My mistakes were mostly from having to figure out how to film while fish. It’s harder than it looks. Lots of thought goes into filming, thought that isn’t going into fishing. Lol!

[@Chrisgalin]

Your videos are great! You seem like a down to earth kind of dude!

[@rileymurphy8329]

Do you use a 5 weight as I am now looking for my first fly rod that can handle casting the tiny midge larvae on the san juan, size 16-18 hares ears for the pecos, attractor patterns for rio costilla, and the good old woolly bugger.

[@McFlyAngler]

I actually now have been using a 10’ 3wt. 90% of my casts are roll casts on the Juan, so the extra length helps with getting the roll cast further. Also the length gives a bit more backbone on the normal 3wt and fights fish like a 4wt. Which is plenty. And the sensitive tip of the 3wt helps keep from ripping out the tiny midges out of the fishes mouth

[@matthiasperez829]

Hey man I just started fly fishing! How do you fish with small midges ?

[@McFlyAngler]

Oh that would require a long answer to explain. Haha! Welcome to the sport. It’s addictive so watch out! Haha! Try watching some of my videos and others on how they fish midges and hopefully it helps. But I couldn’t give an explanation over this really.

[@modernflyfisher5091]

I think a longer handle net would have helped you a lot. I also find that it is better to have a bigger net for those times when you need it. Good job on the video and great channel.

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah it would have for sure! I agree. Thanks! Glad you like the channel.

[@modernflyfisher5091]

What are you using for your stationary camera? Your picture quality is good. I'm looking to upgrade for my channel, because right now I'm just using a phone and an older gopro. Also your editing work is great, great job with the audio.

[@modernflyfisher5091]

btw I just found you and Subbed you when you popped up in my suggested videos. Good stuff.

[@McFlyAngler]

Its just a cannon hand held. Vixia R500 I believe. A simple $200 point and shoot camera most people use for home video's. I do enhance it a bit when I edit though. I need to upgrade as well, but I'm glad you like it! I really want a Sony A6300, but they are like $1000 without the lenses, then you gotta buy lenses which cost like $300-2500. Not in my price range right now.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks! I appreciate all my subscribers, believe me! Soon I would like to do some kinda thanks for all my subscribers. Like a contest for a free reel, or something...

[@TheonetheycallQuaid]

I think you should’ve queued up yakety sax song for your video 😂

[@McFlyAngler]

Not understanding what your saying but cool dude!!!

[@TheonetheycallQuaid]

McFly Angler what I’m saying is I’ve had days like that on the water....losing fish over dumb stuff like messing with your drag or gear etc. Yakety Sax is an old song from the Benny Hill show....look it up. It denotes silliness.

[@McFlyAngler]

Oh ok, yeah I put up some silly sounding songs that I could get free from the internet. At least they sounded silly to me. But yeah I understand whatcha saying now. For sure...

[@aaronarms5982]

Yeah you're living my dream man😉

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol thanks!

[@GabrielIvanflyesfishing]

very nice fish!

[@McFlyAngler]

+Gabriel Ivan lol it was! Haha

[@andresandberg4828]

Great movie! So funny but I feel so bad for you when you lost the fishes cause of the drag :) Keep up the good fising!

[@McFlyAngler]

LOL don't feel bad, its my fault.. Thanks! :)

[@geraldlrstubbs]

When you have both arms stretched out in diametrically opposite directions, one holding the rod and the other the net and the fish is still a yard away from the net, it is worth considering that your arms are not going to stretch anymore and that perhaps one should shorten the line a couple of yards...

[@McFlyAngler]

+Gerald Stubbs yes, I agree, I think I stated my leader was too long in the video. The loop connection on fly line leaders doesn't go through guides well, I had some trouble like I said. Oh well.

[@geraldlrstubbs]

Yes, this is the problem with loops. First, they won't go through the tip guide and second, because they are bulky they make a lot of noise in the water. Much better to make your own loop with 12lb monofilament threaded through the line with a needle knot. That is seamless and goes through the eyes without snagging. Now you can use a five yard leader, like I do, and wind everything in right up to the fly. Try it ! All the best for Christmas, Gerald. (You could use 10 or 8 lb if you like, so long as your loop is a greater breaking strain than your leader...)

[@McFlyAngler]

+Gerald Stubbs yes I used to do that when striped fishing on my 8wt rod back when I lived in northern CA. I did it for the same reason. Never had trouble till that day though when trout fishing. Also, not trying to make excuses, but it was tough focusing on fishing when filming. Had to keep adjusting the camera on my head, falling in front of my face, keeping me from being able to see. But when it came down to it, I just was having one of those "screw up days". Haha. With or without the camera work issues. I have snagged many fish that size out of the Juan in the past, never lost that many fish though. Like I said, a very frustrating day. I'll try the mono attachment with this type of fishing, thanks for the advice. God bless, have a good day.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Mc. Fly Lures "stripper" not stripped... stupid autocorrect on the phone. Lol

[@seayak]

I think it is pretty challenging to attempt to play and land a trout on such a light tippet and small fly by fighting the fish from upstream - the fish in this case has the current working for it. Where possible in this situation I try to back out and head downstream to play the fish from down current. The trick is to look for a shallow tailout where you can lead the fish when it begins to tire, and skid the fish onto a shallow, low current area where you can gently hand or net it. In this case you do not have to reel the leader butt into the rod guides and risk breaking the tippet. As a side benefit you will not tire the fish out so much, you land them by outsmarting them as opposed to playing it to the point of exhaustiion

[@McFlyAngler]

+Bruce Bolster ok thanks for the info...

[@rileymurphy8329]

Where is this Hammond tract fishing area as I only know the ones upstream from the town of Navajo dam

[@McFlyAngler]

It’s down stream from the city, almost to the Bloomfield highway

[@m40_kid70]

try a softer mid flex 3-4 rod in 9-11' it really helps keep fish on especially with barbless hooks, I personally use 3 wts almost exclusively these days my go to rod for 95% of my trout fishing is my 11' 3wt syndicate, haven't hooked a fish I couldn't turn with it yet.

[@McFlyAngler]

+M40_Kid saving up for a 10' 3wt rod right now actually. Thanks. As soon as I get the money I will have it. Haha.

[@m40_kid70]

what you looking at? if you don't mind me asking

[@McFlyAngler]

I am thinking a Syndicate rod. I had a few people suggest them. Everyone that fishes them say they are well worth the $300, and as good/maybe better then some $500 offerings.

[@m40_kid70]

I second that I have the 11' 3wt I'd recommend them

[@McFlyAngler]

Cool, so if you already have an 11' 3wt, why are you saving up for a 10' 3wt? To me it seems to close to the 11' 3wt... Is there a reason? Just wondering... I mean I probably would end up getting a 2wt at that point in 10' you know?

[@jasonvanleeve5945]

Great video.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Jason van Leeve thanks

[@ivaannarvaez]

has anyone told you that u look like the guy from MTB? badass video I'll be watching your channel for more trout videos. good job and keep it up.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Lizandro Ivaan Narvaez no, never... what is MTB? Lol Thanks, I'm glad you liked the video

[@MrNonch1]

Was that streamer lure made from your beard? Why were you trying to play racketball with the fish instead of netting it? And...it must be a brilliant trout river for you to actually catch something! Lol.

[@McFlyAngler]

+MrNonch1 well your sarcasm shows through the response... lol. Yes it's an amazing river, no the fly wasn't made from my beard hair (although that would be pretty awesome!) and yes, racket ball, without a racket or ball, yes that's what I was doing.

[@MrTmaynes82]

I never use the drag on my reels. Try setting it as low as possible and palm the reel to slow it down or apply pressure to the line with your finger.

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah, the issue was I had it set too high for some reason... I was trying to lower it in order to not loose the fish...

[@fernandomiron7557]

des de España un saludo felicidades 🎅👏👏

[@McFlyAngler]

Merry Christmas to you as well! :)

[@cyphercg21]

Hey bud this is Clint the Barber. What is that stick that is floating behind u? Just curious

[@McFlyAngler]

What’s up man! How are things? That stick is a wading staff. Just keeps me from falling. I don’t really use one much anymore on the Juan, but it’s necessary on the Animas.

[@cyphercg21]

McFly Angler Oh ok. That's a pretty good idea. My buddy Derrick and I hit the San Juan yesterday & about ate it a few times. Haha

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah I went today, and it’s slippery for sure!

[@cyphercg21]

McFly Angler did u happen to do any good? I caught 1 on a Olive green streamer, but had some good hits on salmon eggs

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah it was ok, not my most productive day, but the guy I fished with killed it! He had 3 fish over 17, and we both caught a ton of small ones.

[@maineoutdoorsman677]

When u set the hook keep the line in ur rod hand when u set the hook there's will be less slack .an u won't lose so many fish .an u won't have to relied on drag .

[@McFlyAngler]

Ok thank you for the info.

[@fishing4truth91]

I'm not familiar with the San Juan River, I would have appreciated a map link be included in your notes - thanks.

[@McFlyAngler]

I’ve done maps before and people lost their cool... said I was giving spots away. Can’t win no matter what I do, someone is gonna get mad

[@fishing4truth91]

Yes, I don't doubt that some fishermen want to horde their honey-spots. But this is America and they don't have a deed of ownership over that location or stretch of river/stream. Thanks for your response McFly... happy angling Bud.

[@McFlyAngler]

I had some death threats bro...

[@fishing4truth91]

Are you freakin' serious?

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah bro... also, the vast majority of my subs don’t want me to post spots, so I try to please the majority.

[@RGJR02]

Thanks man. I'll try it out

[@McFlyAngler]

+Rudy Gurule cool, maybe I'll see ya there some time. God bless man! Keep fishing and let me know how you do there.

[@russelllieser4226]

Nice video.

[@McFlyAngler]

Thanks

[@matfriske5548]

One thing worse than being behind a slow garbage truck: driving the garbage truck! LOL.

[@McFlyAngler]

Im sure it is! HAHA Especially that one. Driving all the way into the Texas Hole parking lot and watching people get ready for a fun day of fishing while he is working. I actually feel bad for him now.

[@matfriske5548]

LOL.. great video, enjoyed it!

[@McFlyAngler]

HAHA Thanks man! Check out my new one, another frustrating day, but a fun video still. I did catch this last time I went out, and that video will be up on Thursday Jan. 19th (about 1.5 weeks away). I finally land one on camera. Glad to have you watching man! Have a great day Mr Friske...

[@bretmavrick7771]

Nice vid!

[@McFlyAngler]

Thansk

[@matthewparr8411]

how about you move around a little. it's obvious you need to learn how to fight big fish properly. I'd suggest watching Landon mayer and walk the fish like a dog staying parallel, also being sure you get all the line in your reel so the fish is on the drag. guarantee you'll get more fish in the net.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Matthew Parr fast moving water bro, not ready to take a dunk. Also there are deep pot holes that you can fall in above your head... I've done it. Almost died once. Also, I would end up out of the camera shot if I walked... If you didn't notice the line was on my reel. ;).

[@matthewparr8411]

The water behind you is not very fast. I've wade in water that's 500 cfs plus here in Colorado. Also the second camera angle, after you lost 2 big ones, you had plenty of space to move. Maybe set the drag lower and let the fish take line cause it's not the hook size. That's what drag is for. Anyways tight lines man. Merry christmas :)

[@McFlyAngler]

+Matthew Parr ok thanks... I will try to keep that mental image on exactly where the camera angle is next time to know exactly how far I can move next time. Thanks!

[@caderudiger4038]

Great video shame you lost the big one

[@McFlyAngler]

It happens. Glad you like the video

[@etiennebbeukes6009]

What midges were you using?

[@McFlyAngler]

Black beauties and red annelids. Small, size 22-26

[@ixgrubxi]

Cool vid. Maybe try tying your own leader. Learn the barrel knot. Great hole.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Ix GRUB xI M I always called it the uni-uni knot... yes I know it well. Once while working on a charter boat fishing for albacore tuna off the California coast, a customer hooked into a 40lb tuna and his reel took a dump on him, so I grabbed another rod, wrapped his line around my hand, and did a uni-uni knot onto the other rod and handed it back to him to continue fighting the fish. He got it in. Yes, true story... I actually like the blood knot a bit better for fly fishing. I had that knot on my leader to a 2 foot tippit before tying on my first fly in order to make it longer (in hopes of hooking more fish). Then my 2nd fly (the one they kept hitting all day) was about 1.5 feet from the 1st fly. In all, from my fly line to the last fly, I was 12.5 feet. Tough on a 9' rod. I messed that day up big time. Just not thinking ahead. The last fish I lost I had brought the leader length down a bit to 10.5 feet in total, but I still was having trouble due to using such small flies. Also by then I was tired... and not fighting them well. Good suggestions though, thanks man! Glad you liked the video. More to come! Please check out my next one on Thursday.

[@caneflyfishngsps]

Play a fish to exhaustion doesn't help it survive. Shorten your leader BEFORE you cast again after you realize it's too long, dude.. Difficult to watch someone not follow a fish downstream to get a better angle on the fight...

[@McFlyAngler]

Yeah dude, filming with a stationary camera... I will try to figure out how to keep the camera on me while following the fish down stream. Still haven't thought of a way though. Maybe some really expensive camera equipment I can put on an automatic pan so I can adjust the angle of the camera while fighting the fish? although I don't have the money for that crap... If you have any suggestions let me know. ;)

[@luismendoza1637]

Awesome !

[@McFlyAngler]

+luis mendoza glad you liked it

[@GabrielIvanflyesfishing]

I'm tying flies fishing.Do you interesting?

[@McFlyAngler]

+Gabriel Ivan I'm sorry I don't understand...

[@1fastFreddy4sure]

HaHa you are like watching a cartoon show !

[@McFlyAngler]

👍

[@phillipimsdahl3563]

wonders of wonders an honest fisherman.

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol thanks

[@t.j.poductions6462]

Anyone who has fished the San Juan knows the frustration of watching 10 18+ inch trout schooling around your legs and not being able to catch a fish. It can be a real struggle.

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol that’s for sure! Haha

[@Hey_its_Koda]

I love New Mexico but I hate Albuquerque. 🤠

[@McFlyAngler]

Lol well Albuquerque definitely isn’t the safest city in America. Lol. But it has its charm in places. Not many places in the city though I’d want to get lost in at night.

[@Hey_its_Koda]

@@McFlyAngler 😂😂😂😂 true. I need to head up there to get away from the city.

[@Hey_its_Koda]

@@McFlyAngler i want to take up fly fishing. What equipment do i need and what would you recommend for a beginner? I spin cast fish. So im lost when it comes to fly fishing. I live in New Mexico as well.

[@ClaytonSensiba]

Lucky you only live 30 mins away. For me it's a 7 hour drive from las cruces. I usually make the trip once a year though.

[@McFlyAngler]

+Clay Sensiba yeah I am lucky for sure! Just moved up to Durango though and it's like 50 minutes, but still not too bad.

[@robertrplus5325]

Clay Sensiba The same for me and my crew, keep fishing folks.

[@spokanegroms8733]

What midges do you use?

[@McFlyAngler]

On that trip I think I was using a size 22 red annelid and a size 24 or 26 kristal flash emerger. But man that was over a year ago so I don’t know 100%

[@spokanegroms8733]

Thank you. I started fly fishing this year and want to now how to use midges a bit better thank you again.

[@McFlyAngler]

Do you live in Spokane? I would love to help ya with midge fishing, but its one of those things that I can't really do much remotely. There is so much variables in how to fish it during certain conditions, that its too tough to explain.

[@spokanegroms8733]

Yeah I do anything helps just how to fish midges in general would help too

[@McFlyAngler]

Man, that could be a long long message to you. HAHA Ok here are the basics... If your local river allows 2 flies, use it! I generally try to use an "attractor" fly and drop to a more realistic size fly. Unfortunately on my river its usually a size 24-26 midge. But your local river might be different. Either way, I like something more flashy, for my lead fly, then drop to something less flashy. If you are new to nymphing, then I recommend an indicator. Length from indicator to your first fly will depend on the speed of the run and the depth you want to fish. Also, when nymphing make sure to hit the seems. You have fast moving water, and slow moving water, the water between the two is called the seem. Also, fish between cloudy water and clear water (if there is that on your river). Basically changes of water are where you want to fish. Above all, mend. Make sure the flies are moving at the speed of the water, and there is no drag on the line. Thats about all I can tell ya for now.

[@RGJR02]

You too man merry Christmas

[@McFlyAngler]

+Rudy Gurule you do the same my friend!

[@bassknuckleskid1374]

Nice vid

[@McFlyAngler]

+Bass Knuckles kid thank you! :).

[@bassknuckleskid1374]

Mc. Fly Lures your welcome how's that fly video on the shad streamer

[@McFlyAngler]

I have like 3 already uploaded and on the way. I work full time, do the video's full time (takes me about 30+ hours a week for video's) and watch my 3 year old full time (wife works night shift and I have him all day and all night 5 days a week). I will get too it, but it will be a few weeks. Sorry. Just all I can do. I release 1 fly tying video per week on Friday's. I have two that are scheduled coming up. I will try to make sure yours comes out in 3 weeks max.

[@dankochanek8056]

Remind me not to buy that fly reel you have. Maybe get a longer net also.

[@McFlyAngler]

Have you seen my other videos? This was my very first video I ever did. Watch the new ones

[@dankochanek8056]

I didn't say I didn't like it. I was just bummed for you with that little net.

[@McFlyAngler]

I have a larger net.

[@RGJR02]

what area of the Juan are u?

[@McFlyAngler]

+Rudy Gurule they call it big rock hole... One of my favorite places to fish on the San Juan

[@survivalblue]

Great video

[@McFlyAngler]

+survivalblue hey thanks! :)

[@younghomietrav7602]

RIP Abe

[@McFlyAngler]

Did he pass recently? Been a while since I’ve been there

[@appalachianbushcraft5706]

Did you go buy a mid length fishpond net after that haha

[@McFlyAngler]

+AppalachianBushcraft no I didn't my wife and I are a little tight for money right now. So maybe soon in the future I can

[@freshprinceofsd]

Fucked that one up bigggg time haha

[@jamesrobertson9990]

Fished the San Juan for 13 yeqrs. best guide on the river is TJ Massey, look him up and he'll put you on monsters.

[@McFlyAngler]

Ok, This is the first time I ever fished the river, over 4 years ago or so. I appreciate the recommendation. Not heard of Massey, im sure ive met him though. Since this video I started working at a fly shop on the river, and have caught many over 20". I no longer live there though now, as I moved away last year to another state. I do miss fishing the San Juan.

[@tylormartinez1638]

are you from San Juan county?

[@McFlyAngler]

+Tylor Martinez San Juan county is up by Durango right? Yes, now I am, just moved here. I was in Farmington before this though.

[@tylormartinez1638]

Dude let's go fishing next weekend I live in Bloomfield about 20 mins away! I'm getting a new rod here soon!!!!

[@McFlyAngler]

+Tylor Martinez I can't fish weekends, I've gotta watch my kid while my wife works on weekends. My only days right now are Tuesday-Thursday each week...

[@tylormartinez1638]

I can work with a Tues or Thursday.

[@tylormartinez1638]

505 402 7141 text me.

[@galaxyharlowe641]

I like watching and i turn up the sound so i can hear you loud and clear . YOU HURT MY EARS SO BAD . Never Again. by. by. for ever. !!!!!!!!

[@McFlyAngler]

+Cynthia Harlowe how did I hurt your ears? I'm really sorry...