The Butcher Shop

Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Butcher Shop fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash sits down with Brendan Ruch, the innovative tier behind the Nut Job, to explore every dimension of this game-changing swim fly pattern. From its accidental birth on Logjam Live to its current status as a go-to predator pattern for serious smallmouth and trout anglers, Brendan walks through the complete evolution of the fly. The conversation covers Central Pennsylvania waters where the pattern has proven deadly on big smallmouth and trout, particularly during spring high water conditions. Brendan details his craft fur-based approach, explaining how the synthetic material provides superior castability and a distinctive glide bait action compared to traditional hen saddle patterns. The discussion moves from vise to water, covering everything from material selection and proportioning to advanced retrieve techniques that maximize the fly's strip-and-stall bite trigger, making this essential listening for any angler pursuing large predatory fish on the fly.Key TakeawaysHow to tie a swim fly with predictable glide bait action using craft fur instead of expensive hen saddles, resulting in easier casting and better material availabilityWhy positioning rubber legs on top of the shank rather than on the sides creates critical parachute action that allows the fly to suspend and trigger strikes during the pauseWhen to adjust tungsten bead weights between 3/16" and 7/32" based on current speed to keep the fly in the strike zone without losing the neutral buoyancy that makes the pattern effectiveHow introducing slack through rod tip manipulation and strategic mends maximizes the fly's side-to-side glide within a confined 12-inch zone where fish are holdingWhy dark colors like olive-and-black with copper flash outperform bright patterns in off-color spring water, while yellow-orange combinations excel as visibility improvesTechniques & Gear CoveredThe episode centers on Brendan's systematic approach to fishing articulated swim flies with emphasis on strip-and-stall retrieves that create glide bait action. He details using rod tip manipulation—upward jerks, downward strips, lateral movements combined with mends—to introduce slack that allows the Nut Job to kick side-to-side within a tight zone. Tying techniques focus on craft fur density and proportioning, including ripping tips rather than cutting to preserve bulk, using finesse chenille as a low-drag core and positioning 4-8 rubber legs to create suspending action. Brendan discusses hook configurations ranging from size 2 Trout Predator to 1/0 hooks paired with 15-25mm shanks connected via Maxima Chameleon 25lb, with tungsten bead options from 3/16" to 7/32" for varying current speeds. Line selection covers Type 3 sink tips for early season high water transitioning to intermediate lines as flows normalize, paired with fluoro leaders built from 30-35lb stepping down to 16-20lb tippet.Locations & SpeciesThe Nut Job has proven effective across East Coast waters, with Brendan's primary focus on Central Pennsylvania smallmouth fisheries where the pattern excels during high water conditions typical of March through May. He references success on the West Branch of the Delaware targeting trout with smaller versions of the pattern and discusses adaptations for musky fishing and striper applications along coastal waters. The fly's design addresses the challenges of fishing swollen spring rivers with off-color water, where heavy tungsten keeps...

Discover the Spiral Spook: Innovation in Topwater Fly FishingJoin Marvin Cash on The Butcher Shop fly fishing podcast as he interviews Chase Smith, inventor of the innovative Spiral Spook fly pattern. Chase bridges conventional and fly fishing by adapting the classic walk-the-dog action into a deadly topwater fly for bass and other predator species.Expert Design Insights from Chase SmithChase shares his journey from conventional fishing to creating one of fly fishing's most unique topwater patterns. Learn how he solved critical design challenges including weight distribution, foam construction and hook positioning to achieve authentic spook action on a fly rod.What You'll LearnDiscover the precise retrieve technique required for walking the fly—short, sharp strips just three inches long with rod tip on the water. Chase reveals why leader material matters, explaining why soft monofilament outperforms fluorocarbon and stiff materials. Get the complete leader formula: 2 feet of 50-pound to 2 feet of 35-40 pound, finishing with 2 feet of 20-pound soft mono.Advanced Tying TechniquesChase breaks down the complete construction process, from embedding weights in foam bodies to creating the signature spiral wrap. Learn about material selection including EVA foam, Gorilla Glue clear coating and wide-gap offset hooks that dramatically improved hookup ratios. Understand the precision required—weight placement within millimeters affects the entire action.Topwater Strategies for Predator SpeciesGet Chase's preferred setup: 55-millimeter bone-colored spooks on 6-7 weight rods with floating lines with aggressive tapers. Discover why smaller sizes catch more fish and how to adapt the pattern for varying conditions. Chase shares his 90% commitment to bone color and explains the strategic advantage of downsizing.Master the Walk-the-Dog RetrieveThe most common mistake anglers make is stripping too long. Chase emphasizes the critical importance of short, sharp strips—just a wrist flick of three inches. Learn how to initiate the walk with fast strips then vary tempo for different actions. Understand why loop knots are essential and how tippet diameter affects glide.Ready to add this deadly topwater pattern to your predator fly arsenal? Tune in for Chase's expert insights on creating and fishing one of fly fishing's most innovative surface patterns.SponsorsThanks to Schultz Outfitters, TroutRoutes and OnX Fish Midwest for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.Related ContentS6, Ep 124 - Fly Tying with Chase SmithBONUS - Tying the Circus Peanut: Streamer Secrets and Fishing Strategies with Russ MaddinS6, Ep 101 - The Chocklett Factory: Fly Fishing Travels, Conservation and New VenturesS4, Ep 4 - Matt O'Neal of Savage...

The Home Invader: A 30-Year Fly Fishing LegacyIn this episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash dives deep into one of fly fishing's most versatile streamer patterns with its creator, Doug McKnight. Calling in from Blacksmith Lodge in Punta Herrero, Mexico, Doug shares the complete story behind the Home Invader—from its origins on Pennsylvania spring creeks to its evolution into a deadly pattern for everything from Yellowstone brown trout to backcountry tarpon.Doug McKnight's Streamer ExpertiseDoug McKnight brings three decades of streamer innovation to this fly fishing podcast, with patterns proven across multiple species and water types. Based in Livingston, Montana, Doug guides on the Yellowstone River and has adapted his signature patterns for both freshwater predators and saltwater gamefish. His design philosophy draws from legends Bob Clouser and Bob Popovics, emphasizing natural movement and practical fishability.What You'll Learn: Home Invader FundamentalsListeners gain insider knowledge on the Home Invader's creation story, including the accidental discovery that combined pheasant marabou, Australian possum fur and Clouser-style lead eyes into a deadly baitfish imitation. Doug explains material selection—from sourcing premium pheasant marabou to choosing between possum, arctic fox and coyote fur for different fly sizes. He breaks down common tying mistakes, particularly over-dressing with fur, and shares his preferred method for securing lead eyes with thread wraps and Zap-A-Gap.Featured Techniques: Fishing the Home InvaderThe core revelation: the Home Invader excels at slow presentations in fast water. Doug introduces his "do nothing" retrieve—casting with a 250-300 grain sink tip, getting tight to the fly and letting current provide all the action. This technique targets pressured brown trout holding in heavy Yellowstone River runs where traditional fast strips fail. Doug details his complete system: 7-8 weight rods, 24-foot sink tips, 15-pound Maxima butt sections and loop-knotted fluorocarbon tippets. Color selection follows water clarity—natural olives and tans in clear conditions, bright yellows and chartreuse in muddy water.Yellowstone River Streamer StrategiesDoug reveals how Montana's fishing pressure has changed his approach over 20 years. Fish now occupy extremely difficult lies in heavy current where precise boat positioning matters more than ever. The Home Invader's inherent movement allows effective coverage of these spots with minimal manipulation—critical when you get only one cast to pressured fish. Doug discusses adapting fly weight by pairing different grain sink tips with varied lead eye sizes, creating everything from dredging presentations to near-surface swims.Beyond Trout: Saltwater AdaptationsThe episode includes a bonus discussion of the Home Slice—Doug's weightless Home Invader variation for tarpon and permit. Using plastic eyes instead of lead, the Home Slice swims right-side-up and has proven deadly for backcountry species. Doug also shares his current permit experiment: fishing floating crab patterns over sargassum weed mats with explosive visual strikes.Listen Now for Proven Streamer TacticsWhether you're chasing Yellowstone browns, smallmouth bass or backcountry permit, this episode delivers actionable insights from a pattern designer who's refined his craft for 30 years. Doug's willingness to share detailed techniques—from leader formulas to retrieve cadences—makes this essential listening for serious streamer anglers.SponsorsThanks to Schultz Outfitters, TroutRoutes and a...

Join The Butcher Shop podcast host Marvin Cash for an exclusive deep dive into fly line design and manufacturing with Josh Jenkins, R&D Manager at Scientific Anglers.Guest Expertise: Scientific Anglers R&D LeadershipJosh Jenkins brings mechanical engineering expertise and years of hands-on experience developing fly lines for America's leading manufacturer. As SA's sole engineer, Jenkins oversees product development, manufacturing optimization and quality control for the company's entire line portfolio.What You'll Learn: Manufacturing Secrets RevealedDiscover the complete fly line manufacturing process from core selection through PVC coating application. Learn how Scientific Anglers revolutionized the industry by moving from tapered cores to level cores with tapered plastic coatings. Understand the collaboration process between pro staff anglers and engineers that drives new product development.Featured Techniques: Streamer Fishing Line InnovationExplore specialized line development for musky fishing, including running line diameter optimization for powerful strip sets and color contrast improvements for low-light visibility. Get insights into new sinking line densities and the evolution from basic streamers to modern oversized flies.Manufacturing Insights: From Concept to MarketLearn production realities including minimum viable quantities (200-300 lines annually), development timelines from concept to retail and the technology evolution from mechanical cam systems to computer-controlled manufacturing that enables rapid prototyping.Ready to understand what makes premium fly lines perform? This episode delivers insider knowledge every serious angler needs.SponsorsThanks to Schultz Outfitters, TroutRoutes and OnX Fish Midwest for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.Related ContentS6, Ep 142: Winter Musky Adventures and Streamer Tactics with Ellis WardS7, Ep 14: The Streamer Playbook: Tips and Tactics for Targeting Big Trout in East Tennessee with Ellis WardS2, Ep 114: All Things Game Changer with Blane ChocklettAll Things Social Media Follow Scientific Anglers on Instagram and Facebook.Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and 

Join Marvin Cash on this episode of The Butcher Shop as he explores one of saltwater fly fishing's most revolutionary patterns with Captain Ben Whalley, a Maine striped bass guide and a keeper of Bob Popovics' innovative tying methods.Expert Guest CredentialsCaptain Ben Whalley brings unparalleled insight into Bob Popovics' techniques, having developed a close mentorship with the legendary fly designer before his passing. As a professional striped bass guide fishing Maine's challenging waters, Whalley has refined these patterns for diverse saltwater conditions.What You'll LearnDiscover the fascinating history behind the Beast Fleye's development, from Bob's initial 14-inch prototype that earned its name for being "a beast to cast." Learn essential tying fundamentals including bucktail selection, mono extension techniques and the critical reverse-tying method that creates the fly's distinctive breathing action.Featured TechniquesMaster the art of sparse tying with matchstick-diameter material proportions, understand how to create proper taper through staged construction and learn tackle setups from floating lines for surface feeds to 400-grain fast-sink heads for deep current fishing.Striped Bass Fishing InsightsGet proven presentation strategies including stop-and-go retrieves that trigger strikes, plus tactical advice for fishing rocky ledges versus open water situations.Ready to elevate your saltwater fly game with this game-changing pattern?SponsorsThanks to Schultz Outfitters, TroutRoutes and OnX Fish Midwest for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.Related ContentS6, Ep 91 - Predator Flies and Sparkle Boats: Steve Maldonado's JourneyS6, Ep 144 - The Chocklett Factory: Conservation, New Products and a Legacy RememberedS6, Ep 146 - Musky Mysteries: Winter Tactics and Fly Tying Tips with Matt ReillyS6, Ep 41 - Smallmouth Secrets and Streamer Savvy with Brendan RuchAll Things Social Media Follow Ben on Instagram .Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and YouTube .Support the Show a...

In this episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash is joined by Fletcher Sams, the innovative mind behind the Tweaker. Fletcher shares his journey into the world of visual eats and swim bugs, delving deep into the creation of the Tweaker, the fishing problem it addresses and the unique design features that make it effective.Listeners will discover the inspiration behind the name and the challenges Fletcher faced in developing a fly that could navigate tight, brush-filled creeks while maintaining a weedless presentation. He discusses the intricate details of the fly's construction, including the importance of hook selection, head design and the use of buoyancy to enhance performance.The conversation also covers tips for tying the Tweaker, common mistakes to avoid and the nuances of fishing this innovative pattern. Fletcher emphasizes the importance of visual engagement while fishing and shares his preferred tackle setup for maximizing success on the water.This episode is a treasure trove of insights for fly tyers and anglers alike, offering a fascinating look into the creative process behind one of the most exciting streamers out there today.Thanks to Schultz Outfitters and TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.Check Out Fletcher Tying the TweakerAll Things Social Media Follow Fletcher on Instagram .Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and YouTube .Support the Show Shop on Amazon Become a Patreon Patron Subscribe to the Podcast Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the PodcastIs our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck? Check out our consulting options!Helpful Episode Chapters00:00:00 Introduction00:02:42 The Origin of the Tweaker00:08:48 Influences on Design00:10:03 Bite Triggers and Action00:15:33 Constructing the Tweaker00:21:57 Proportions for Different Sizes00:28:18 Choosing the Right Beads00:30:54 Selecting Quality Deer Hair00:34:11 Deer Hair Proportions Explained00:35:05 Head Design and Function00:50:05 Common Mistakes in...

In this episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash sits down with Russ Maddin at the vise for a lively discussion about the iconic Circus Peanut. As Russ ties this innovative pattern, he shares the fascinating backstory behind its creation in the early 2000s, highlighting the guiding challenges that inspired its design. Listeners will learn about the unique two-hook construction that helps keep fish hooked longer, a game-changer for streamer fishing enthusiasts.Russ dives deep into his approach to streamer fishing, emphasizing the importance of adapting techniques based on water conditions and fish behavior. He offers valuable insights into fly selection, including his favorite materials and setups for different scenarios. The conversation also touches on the evolution of fly lines and how advancements in technology have changed the way anglers present their flies.Throughout the episode, Russ shares practical tips for retrieving the Circus Peanut effectively, including the importance of varying cadence and keeping the line straight. He also discusses common mistakes that novice tiers make and how to avoid them, ensuring that listeners walk away with actionable advice to improve their tying game.This episode is a treasure trove of information for fly anglers looking to refine their skills and learn more about one of the most versatile streamer patterns in the sport.Thanks to Schultz Outfitters and TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.All Things Social MediaFollow Russ on Instagram.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the ShowShop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the PodcastIs our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?Check out our consulting options!Helpful Episode Chapters00:00:00 Introduction00:01:56 The Circus Peanut's Origin Story00:05:01 Influences Behind the Design00:09:45 The Purpose of the Circus Peanut00:24:00 Modern Materials for Tying00:28:05 Favorite Hook and Bead Combinations00:45:05 The Importance of Line Selection00:48:48 Matching the Biomass00:57:06 Techniques for Retrieving the Peanut01:11:32 New Developments in Fly Tying

In this episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash sits down with Tommy Lynch on a frigid winter evening in Michigan, where they dive deep into the world of fly tying and fishing. Despite the brutal cold and a case of the "shack nasties," Tommy shares his insights on the creation of his popular fly pattern, the Drunk & Disorderly. With a few Monsters and some Kodiak to keep the spirits high, the duo explores the intricacies of fly design, discussing the importance of movement and bite triggers that can entice even the most elusive fish.Tommy takes us through his journey of developing the Drunk & Disorderly, from its initial concept to the evolution of its head design, and the materials that make it effective. He emphasizes the significance of understanding fish behavior and adapting your techniques based on water temperature and conditions. As they exchange stories, listeners will gain valuable tips on fishing strategies, including the best practices for presenting the fly to maximize its effectiveness.This episode is not only packed with practical advice for anglers but also highlights the passion and creativity that go into fly tying. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Tommy's insights will inspire you to think outside the box and enhance your fishing experience.Thanks to Schultz Outfitters and  TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.All Things Social MediaFollow Tommy on Facebook and Instagram.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the ShowShop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the PodcastIs our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?Check out our consulting options!Helpful Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:53 The Drunk & Disorderly Begins 06:34 Influences in Fly Design 10:35 The Mechanics of Swim Flies 12:36 Understanding Bite Triggers 18:45 The Importance of Presentation 26:19 Materials and Tying Tips

In this inaugural episode of The Butcher Shop, host Marvin Cash sits down with renowned angler Blane Chocklett for an in-depth discussion on the art of crafting and fishing the T-Bone. Blane shares his journey from early musky fishing experiences to the creation of the T-Bone, detailing the materials and techniques that went into its design. He dives into the intricacies of hook and shank configurations, the importance of profile and silhouette and how to effectively fish this innovative pattern.The conversation explores the evolution of streamer design, including the transition from natural to synthetic materials, and the advantages each brings to the table. Blane also shares valuable insights on common mistakes tiers make when attempting to tie the T-Bone, along with tips for achieving the perfect action in the water.Listeners will gain a wealth of knowledge about fly design, fishing strategies and the ongoing developments in the world of predator streamer fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, this episode offers a treasure trove of information to enhance your time on the water.Thanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use artfly20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.Learn More About Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest 2025All Things Social MediaFollow Blane on Facebook and Instagram.Follow The Chocklett Factory on Instagram.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the ShowShop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the PodcastIs our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us.In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck?Check out our consulting options!

Hey, folks, it’s Marvin Cash the host of The Articulate Fly.I am super stoked to share a new podcast that is going to launch soon - The Butcher Shop.We are going to have raw conversations with master angler tiers who craft and fish the deadliest streamers in the game. From OGs like Blane Chocklett, Russ Maddin and Tommy Lynch to up and coming young guys, we are going to talk to them all. Each episode will dissects signature patterns and complete systems for hunting trophy brown trout, musky, pike and bass. No recipes - just proven tactics from predator specialists who consistently deliver the goods.And, a shout out to Logjam Dave for an awesome logo design! Check out more of his handiwork on Instagram. Don’t miss a single episode! Subscribe to The Butcher Shop today in favorite your podcatcher, and subscribe to The Articulate Fly on Instagram to keep up with all things Butcher Shop!

Episode OverviewBlane Chocklett joins The Articulate Fly for the first Chocklett Factory of 2026, covering his latest innovations in predator fly design and upcoming event schedule. In this fly fishing podcast episode, Blane discusses his recent Fly Fisherman magazine cover featuring the Jerk Changer, a game-changing articulated streamer designed for trophy predator species including smallmouth bass and musky. The conversation explores Blane's 2025 season highlights, including record-breaking fish on the TFO Moment rod and his emotional Cuba trip honoring the late Flip Pallot. Blane unveils his 2026 product line including new popper and slider heads, finishing heads for streamers, articulated terrestrial patterns and a collaboration with AHREX on Game Changer hooks. He also previews his appearances at Bobbin the Hood in late January and Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest in March, emphasizing the community-focused nature of both events. This episode provides serious predator anglers with insights into cutting-edge fly design, new rigging options and opportunities to learn directly from one of fly fishing's most innovative tiers and designers.Key TakeawaysHow the Jerk Changer's unique articulation and triggers make it effective for virtually every predatory fish species from smallmouth to musky.Why Blane's new finishing heads (shovel heads, realistic heads) give streamers different water-pushing actions while remaining lighter and more castable.When to use popper and slider head variations for top water presentations targeting smallmouth, saltwater species and other predators.How Blane's new realistic body parts and support discs allow tiers to match exact baitfish profiles like shad, bunker, glass minnows and chubs.Why events like Bobbin the Hood and Lefty Kreh's Tie Fest offer unique opportunities for intimate learning and celebration of fly fishing legends while supporting conservation through ASGA.Techniques & Gear CoveredThis episode focuses heavily on predator fly design innovations rather than on-water techniques. Blane discusses the Jerk Changer articulated streamer pattern, which differs from the standard Game Changer platform by incorporating additional triggers and articulation points that attract large predatory fish. He mentions fishing the Jerk Changer with the TFO Moment rod and catching trophy smallmouth bass and record-size fish in 2025. The conversation covers upcoming product releases including popper and slider heads for top water fishing, various finishing heads (shovel heads and realistic heads) that create different streamer actions, articulated stonefly and terrestrial patterns using new bug heads and a collaboration with

The Articulate Fly podcast delivers another essential Ruch Report featuring expert guide Brendan Ruch, who shares critical fall bass fishing strategies while navigating his new role with Megabass. In this timely episode, Ruch addresses the pivotal question of when to transition from topwater flies to ned rig techniques during fall fishing, revealing that low water conditions and extended warm weather are keeping topwater action alive well into autumn. Learn about the most effective ned rig-style flies for bass, including detailed insights on Mini Boogeyman patterns from Montana Fly Company and Changer Craw designs that fall vertically under slack line and create erratic jigging actions that trigger strikes. Ruch explains the specific setup and presentation techniques that make these crayfish-imitating flies so deadly for fall bass, plus shares valuable updates on current water conditions, including extremely low levels due to extended dry conditions. The episode also covers Ruch's upcoming appearances at the renowned Bobbin the Hood event, where Golden Tickets are selling fast, and provides scheduling updates for anglers hoping to book guided trips. Whether you're targeting numbers or trophy bass, this report delivers actionable intelligence for maximizing your fall fishing success.To learn more about Brendan, check out our interview.Related ContentS7, Ep 74 - Beyond the Popper: Subsurface Strategies with Brendan RuchS7, Ep 77 - Fall Fishing Forecast: Navigating Low Water and Technical Tactics with George CostaS7, Ep 67 - Chasing Smallmouth: High Water Strategies with Brendan RuchS6, Ep 41 - Smallmouth Secrets and Streamer Savvy with Brendan RuchAll Things Social MediaFollow Brendan on Facebook and Instagram.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the Show Shop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.Advertise on the...