Fatwood is a non-toxic, natural firestarter prized by homeowners, hikers, and backcountry survivalists for its ability to light easily and burn very hot—even in damp conditions. Whether it’s lighting up a cozy fireplace for the family during dinner, a woodstove that will heat the house all day, or a ring of stones around a fire … Continue reading “What is Fatwood?”
Read MoreOrvis Staff
Classic Tip: How to Manage the “Winter Blues”
Written by: Justin Collman
Perhaps taking up fly-fishing artwork is a good way to beat the winter blues.
Photo by Illustration by Catherine Griffin
Last month, I found myself sitting cross-legged on a boulder in the middle of my home stream looking through the clear water at the rocks on the bottom. I had given up fishing about an . . .
Read MorePopular Questions About Bulldogs, Answered
Spaulding loves soccer, and he’ll play with anyone.
Photo by Kendra Zimmer
The wrinkled face and short nose is a well-known silhouette—the Bulldog has made his impression on the world. The goofy antics of the fourth most popular dog breed are sure to grab attention. Where did Bulldogs come from and how did this breed…
Read MoreA Guide’s Advice on Fishing Your Go-To Fly Pattern
Written by: Mike Canady of Ellensburg Angler
The rainbow trout of the Yakima just love the Pat’s Stone.
Photo by Mike Canady
Meet the Pat’s Stonefly (a.k.a. Pat’s Rubberlegs, Pat’s Stone, or just Pat’s). But it’s not just a Pat’s Stonefly; it’s my go-to confidence fly. It’s a key factor in any success I have when fishing, even. . .
Read MoreWhat are Some of the Best Gifts for Men from Orvis?
The Orvis Signature Polo. A new fly rod. A leather travel kit. These are some of the best gifts for men from Orvis in 2021. How do we know? We’ve given them to the dads, brothers, sons, and friends in our lives…
Read MoreStep-by-Step: How to Tie the Perfect Santa Claus Fly
A couple of years ago, during the holidays, I scratched out a sketch of a fly that I thought might be a fun tie for the Christmas season. The first few Santas to come off the vise were so hideous . . .
Read MoreClassic Pro Tips: How to Layer for Warmth and Comfort
Moisture-management is an important part of staying warm in winter, so proper layering is essential.
Photo courtesy Josh Duchateau, Firehole Ranch
The advent of breathable waders a couple of decades ago has helped to make the majority of our wader-adorned fishing experiences much more enjoyable. Gone are the days of vulcanized . . .
Read MoreVideo Pro Tips: How to Solve a Big-Trout Riddle
There are reaches of a stream or river that appear lifeless, barren. But if you look around, allow things to unfold, and really look closely in what has to be prime trout habitat, you’ll likely see . . .
Read MoreThe History of Wool Sweaters: There’s More to the Story Than You May Think
Cable Knit Wool Sweater
Photo via orvis.com
Photo via orvis.com
The use of wool in textiles dates back as far as 3000 B.C., having been used for garments in some of the earliest civilizations. Naturally insulating, water-repellent, durable, and often anti-microbial, wool has long served as a go-to textile for garments. That history is what makes the wool sweater such a classic style for men. From fishermen in Ireland’s northern villages to shepherds in the highlands of the Middle East, the wool sweater has stood the test of time and should…
Read MorePro Tips: Top 10 Flies for Winter in the Driftless Area
Written by: Dave Barron, Jacquish Hollow Angler
Winter is a great time to fish the rivers and spring creeks of the Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin.
Photo by Phil Monahan
Winter is one of my favorite times of the year in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. You can have the spring creeks all to yourself, the water is clear, and the fish are hungry. There are a few things . . .
Read More