95. Tripletail & Other Salty Fish on the Fly

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we sit down with Danielle Davidson, the owner and head guide of Lady Guide Fly Fishing in Apalachicola, Florida. Danielle brings her passion for conservation, her expertise in guiding new and seasoned anglers, and a trove of engaging stories from the waters of the Forgotten Coast.

Key Highlights:

1. The Forgotten Coast Lifestyle:

• Danielle shares the charm of Apalachicola, a picturesque and vibrant coastal town, famous for its community spirit, festivals, and untouched natural beauty.
• Explore the rich ecosystem of the area, from the Apalachicola River to Little St. George Island, offering adventures in fishing, birding, and more.

2. Triple Tail Fishing Insights:

• Discover why triple tail is the perfect species for introducing beginners to saltwater fly fishing, and get Danielle’s tips on gear, setups, and her favorite fly patterns, such as the Flexo Crab and shrimp flies.
• Gain an understanding of triple tail behavior, including their habitat preferences and how to present the perfect cast.

3. Conservation and Community:

• Danielle discusses the importance of sustainable fishing practices, highlighting local tagging programs and the need to preserve fish populations like triple tail.
• Reflect on the role of anglers and guides in fostering a culture of conservation while still enjoying the thrill of the sport.

4. Adventures and Memorable Tales:

• Listen to Danielle recount the story of her unforgettable tarpon encounter, a suspense-filled tale of strategy and chaos under the iconic Long Key Bridge.
• From mishaps to triumphs, hear how every experience on the water contributes to her growth as an angler and guide.

5. Beyond Triple Tail:

• Dive into Danielle’s expertise on other species, including tarpon, sheephead, pompano, and black drum, and her excitement for expanding her guiding services to target tarpon in 2025.
• Learn about seasonal shifts in fish behavior and how Danielle adapts to provide the best possible client experiences.

6. Fly of the Month Project:

• Danielle introduces her Fly of the Month initiative, where custom-tied flies, patterns, and stories arrive in anglers’ mailboxes. Hear how this creative project inspires anglers to think outside the box.

Concluding Thoughts: From fishing techniques to conservation, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to refine your fly fishing strategies or simply enjoy a good fishing tale, Danielle’s insights and enthusiasm are sure to leave you inspired.

Connect with Danielle:

• Website: Lady Guide Fly Fishing
• Fly of the Month: Subscribe on her website!

Get Involved: Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe to Southeastern Fly on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with your fishing partners, and leave us feedback or suggestions for future topics. Until next time, tight lines and happy fishing!

Produced by NOVA