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“That’s a piece of advice for people—it’s don’t wait. If you want to try fly fishing, you don’t need anybody to help you. And it’s not as hard as it seems. I waited too long, if anything.”
– Kevin Onsrud
In this week’s discussion, Ed and Reid are joined by artist and outdoorsman Kevin Onsrud from Casting Feathers & Fur. Kevin, once a teacher and now a mentor, talks about his outdoor activities, love for fishing, artistic journey, and the advantages of community involvement and hobbies after retirement.
Kevin narrates the evolution of his art, starting from tying flies, illustrating them, and now crafting art and logos.
The conversation delves into topics like fly fishing in the Driftless area, the camaraderie within the fishing community, the emotional and spiritual rewards of fishing, and the significance of active participation in a community. Kevin also reminisces about his favorite fishing memory and imparts wisdom to his 20-year-old self. Overall, the discussion was enlightening and thoroughly entertaining.
Takeaways
- Mentoring and building a supportive community is important in various fields
- Pursuing new hobbies and passions in retirement can bring fulfillment
- Social media can be a positive platform for building connections and sharing artwork
- Exploring fishing locations and trying new fishing techniques can be rewarding The Driftless area is a hidden gem for fly fishing, with narrow spring-fed streams and challenging fishing conditions.
- Wisconsin offers great trout fishing opportunities with public access to rivers and helpful resources like Driftless Angler.
- Fly fishing has a strong sense of community, with anglers willing to share knowledge and support each other.
- Fishing has emotional, mental, and spiritual benefits, providing a sense of healing and connection with nature.
- Being an active participant in a community is important, fostering support and openness to different perspectives.
Links Noted in the Show:
Casting Feathers & Fur: Instagram | Etsy
“The 4 Phases of Retirement” — Dr. Riley Moynes (ebook & TED Talk)
Casting for Recovery (Website)
Ahrex Hooks (Website)
Orvis on Ontario Street, Chicago, IL (Website)
Driftless Angler, Viroqua, WI (Website)
Dairymen’s Country Club, Boulder Junction, WI (Facebook)
Philmon Scout Ranch High Adventure, Cimarron, NM (Website)
Frequent Flyers Fishing (Instagram)
Fishing Locations Mentioned:
Driftless Area
Quetico Provincial Park
Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Catskill Mountains
The Guys Fishing Weekly is a podcast dedicated to the camaraderie of men through fishing. Hosted by Ed and Reid, it’s where men gather to share not just the thrill of the catch but the deeper connections forged on the water. Each episode dives into stories, tips, and interviews that celebrate the bonds between fishermen. From tales of early morning casts to arguing about the size of the one that got away, it’s a space for men to connect over shared passions and experiences. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, here’s where you find your crew, united by the love of fishing.