
This week’s podcast is one of the biggest eye-openers I have ever done. Not only did I learn a lot, but I have actually changed my views on a number of topics, including the effects of the moon or a change in barometric pressure on fishing. My guest, Russ Carpenter, is a neurologist at Stanford, who studies the brains and senses of fish, specifically rainbow trout. He answers lots of question about a trout’s sense of smell, vision, and hearing–including UV vision. I hope you learn as much as I did.
In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions:
- Do you really fish with bamboo rods? Aren’t graphite and glass better?
- Why did I see large steelhead in a Great Lakes tributary in July?
- What is your opinion on stocking fish in wild trout streams?
- Is a 6-weight line from 30 years ago the same size as a modern 6-weight?
- Can I dye a fly line with RIT dye?
- What is the best saltwater weed guard?
- Are some spooky fish truly un-catchable? Is there anything I can do to try to catch them?
- Is there a difference between a Scottish brown trout and a German brown?
- I am landing trout up to 20 inches without letting them run. Am I doing something wrong?
- What do you think about weighted soft hackles?
- With modern rubber soles like the Michelin sole on the Pro Boot, is there any need for studs?
If you don’t see the “Play” button above, click here to listen.

This is an amazing podcast episode. I have been listening to the Orvis Fly Fishing Guide Podcast for some time now, and this episode is definitely the most informative and technical in the series, a great episode for a seasoned angler. I love how Dr. Carpenter explains trout behavior through a scientific lens. Please do another episode with Dr. Carpenter on fish behavior.
Thank you for the great podcast!