589 | Casting Back in Time: The Art of Bamboo Rodmaking & Traditional Fly Fishing with Ed Few

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/589

Presented By: Waters West, Togiak River Lodge, Skwala

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Ed Few, a distinguished craftsman of custom bamboo fly rods, shares his extraordinary journey from traditional boatmaking in England to mastering the art of fly fishing with hand-built gear. Delving into the essence of fly fishing's heritage, Ed brings to life the thrill of using bamboo rods, silk lines, and horsehair leaders, all while chasing steelhead in the Great Lakes. Listeners will be transported back in time, learning not just about the meticulous process of creating these traditional tools, but also how they can elevate their own fishing experiences. Ed's stories of craftsmanship, passion, and the pursuit of the perfect catch with historic gear promise to inspire and ignite a curiosity for the timeless art of fly fishing.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• The transition from traditional boat building to crafting bamboo fly rods
• The unique allure of fishing with hand-built custom bamboo rods and traditional gear
• The process and passion behind selecting materials for rod building, including sourcing bamboo and creating silk lines
• Techniques and benefits of fishing with horsehair leaders and hand-tied flies
• Ed Few's memorable experience catching steelhead in the Great Lakes with a bamboo rod he crafted
• The significance of preserving fly fishing traditions while integrating them with contemporary practices
• Insights into the craftsmanship of rod building without power tools, emphasizing the artistry involved
• The potential for bamboo rods in modern fly fishing, including trout and saltwater applications
• The concept of a community-shared bamboo rod to connect anglers and stories across the globe
• Ed Few's vision for the future of traditional fly fishing gear and his contributions to the sport's heritage

https://wetflyswing.com/589