In this episode of the Southeastern Fly Podcast, host David Perry welcomes returning guest Rob Jeeves for a deep dive into DIY Fly Fishing North Carolina. Rob—who cut his fly-fishing teeth in the Tar Heel State before moving north—shares hard-earned insights on planning and fishing a self-guided trip through the region's freestones, headwaters, and neighboring tailwaters.

They cover everything from gear and fly selection to reading water, fishing etiquette, and why Western North Carolina continues to call anglers back. Rob also gives behind-the-scenes stories from his YouTube channel and his recent post—Hurricane Helene series that revisited many of his favorite Appalachian streams.

Highlights of the Episode

• A Lifelong Connection: Rob's fly fishing story began while studying at NC State and evolved into years of exploring mountain waters like Stone Mountain, Helton Creek, and the Elk River around Banner Elk.
• Freestone Favorites: Insights into fishing high-elevation brook trout streams and valley rivers—how to pack multiple rods, pick versatile flies like the Elk Hair Caddis and pheasant tail, and read tight mountain water.
• Tailwater Talk: A look across the Tennessee line to the Watauga and South Holston—what to know about generation schedules, long leaders, and using local fly shops for up-to-date hatch info.
• DIY Done Right: How to plan a North Carolina fishing trip that balances comfort and adventure—whether you're camping along the Davidson or staying in an Airbnb near Boone or Brevard (bonus tip: bring a paper map, not just your phone).
• Beyond the Fishing: The camaraderie of the Psycho Fly Fishers, 25 years strong, reminds us that great trips are about more than fish—community, memories, and shared time on the water.
• Post-Helene Perspective: Rob's YouTube series documents the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the resilience of mountain communities rebuilding their homes, bridges, and beloved trout streams.
• Food Stops Worth the Drive: Don't miss local gems like The Starving Squirrel, Banner Elk Café, Pie on the Mountain in Lansing, and the Old Hampton Store and Barbecue in Linville.

Whether you're plotting your first DIY fishing road trip or just want to relive time on familiar waters, this episode captures the spirit, simplicity, and soul of fly fishing in the Blue Ridge. This is for sure a must-listen for anglers who want to explore North Carolina's mountain waters.

• Instagram: @robjeeves
• YouTube: RobJeeves1972
• The Starving Squirrel — Great spot for coffee and breakfast in the High Country.
• Old Hampton Store & Barbecue — Classic Southern BBQ and live music.
• Pie on the Mountain — Must-stop for pizza in Lansing.
• Banner Elk Café — Local favorite mentioned by Rob.

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Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we crack open a practical primer on caddis flies—what they are, how to spot them, and simple ways to fish each stage. We recorded this one from our “satellite offices” in Florissant, Colorado, and it’s all about translating river observations into flies that work right now on Southeastern waters.

Highlights of the Episode

• Caddis 101, quick and clear: life stages from egg → larva → pupa → adult—and why that sequence matters for your fly selection.
• Reading the river: vegetation is your friend—it feeds caddis larvae and signals where to drift (and what snags to expect).
• Soft-hackle smarts: think “legs forward” and a touch more bulk at the head when imitating the pupa rising to the film.
• Skate the dry: flip the hackle, keep it riding high, and add motion—then trail a soft hackle to cover the pupa coming up behind it.
• The evening show: look for bouncing egg-laying females in the last couple hours of light; they can trigger some of the most visual eats of the day.
• Match what’s actually there: kick-net a riffle, turn a rock, photograph shucks and adults in scum lines, then tie (or buy) to size/shape/color.
• Same river, different bugs: expect color and size shifts by section or tributary—one box won’t fit the whole tailwater.
• Field tip: if you’re wading and find risers, park and run that skating-dry/soft-hackle combo until the light fades.

If you want us to go deeper on bugs or do a tying-focused follow-up, let us know—your ideas drive future episodes. While you’re here, tap to sign up for the newsletter for extra how-to content, and if you’re enjoying the show, please leave a positive review wherever you listen. Thanks for being part of Southeastern Fly!

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
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Produced by NOVA

In this episode, we dig into one of East Tennessee’s most intriguing tailwaters—the Holston (proper), below Cherokee Dam. With Knoxville guide Capt. Jeff Sharp riding shotgun, we map out the river’s fishy 52–53 miles, break down the famed caddis and sulfur programs, and share practical tactics for both trout and smallmouth—plus a few hard-earned stories (including the popper-eating smallie that still haunts Jeff).

Highlights of the Episode:

• The Holston offers two personalities: cool upper trout water and bronzeback-rich lower stretches.
• Spring brings the famed caddis hatch; May and June deliver sulfur magic.
• When dries fail, soft hackles, midges, and rubber legs shine.
• Streamers and poppers tempt both trout and smallmouth without heavy gear.
• Pressure is real—weekdays and flexible start times help dodge the crowds.
• Indian Cave and Nancy’s Ferry ramps give access, with Panther Creek nearby for camping.
• Local flavor counts: breakfast in Blaine, wings at The Hill, and clean stays in Jefferson City.

If you’re chasing a day with dries, emergers, and a real shot at both trout and bronzebacks—plus miles of varied water to learn—put the Holston on your list.

Give it a listen, share with your fishing partners, and then go fish.

Resources:

• Visit southeasternfly.com
• Sign up for our newsletter

Produced by NOVA