What is Tippet for Fly Fishing

You may own the best fly rod, fly reel, fly line, and flies in the world, but without a good leader and tippet material you'd never catch a fish.

Familiar Waters | Fly Fishing Videos, Instructional Articles, and More

Whether your favorite place is locked into the leg braces of a drift boat or standing on the casting platform of a flats skiff chasing tarpon, Familiar Waters has something for you. We feature fly fishing videos, instructional articles, and more to help you master your favorite sport.

Our instructional videos and blogs will get you ready for whatever you may face on the water by teaching you the skills that will help you connect with more fish. In the time between trips, you can check out our fishing videos that will keep you entertained and help you scratch that fishing itch.

fw Videos

Videos of world-class fly fishing destinations and fly fishing techniques

Fly Fishing in Montana on the Beaverhead river

using a combination of nymphs and dry flies to target some beautiful rainbow and brown trout.

Choosing the Right Fly for Trout - Fly Size

the right fly size for trout fishing can be a crucial factor in determining success on the water.
Holbox Tarpon

This Is Why I Love Fly Fishing Isla Holbox For Tarpon!!!

A great morning fly fishing Isla Holbox for tarpon with Mr. Sandflea!

The Familiar Waters blog is a collective of years fishing knowledge about fly fishing, fishing techniques and fishing gear. We also cover environments for fishing from the streams of Alaska, Montana, and Colorado to the keys of Florida.

The Familiar Waters blog is a collective of 50+ years of fly fishing knowledge. Trying to figure out a new technique? We can help. In the market for new fly fishing gear? We will give you unbiased reviews of great products as well as steer you clear of gear that doesn’t make the cut. We also cover destinations for fishing from the legendary rivers and streams of Alaska, Montana, and throughout the mountain west to the flats of the Caribbean and the Florida Keys. They say you are best positioned to help the person you once were, and we we’re once exactly where everyone starts in this sport.  Full of passion and energy and searching for direction.  THAT’S WHY WE WANT TO BRING YOU 50 YEARS OF FLY FISHING EXPERIENCE FOR FREE. 

Helping anglers experience success early and throughout their fly fishing career is our way of giving back to the sport and the people that have made our lives so much richer!

Our  Familiar Waters blog will concentrate on helping you choose fishing gear that will get you on more fish and make your day more enjoyable. We’ll talk about the good, bad, and ugly for fly rods, fly lines, leaders, tippets, flies, fly patterns and other accessories to help you choose what’s right for your fishing. We’ll also show you where to go and bring you travel tips dedicated to fly fishing. Whether you are a first-time fly fisherman or an experienced bug slinger, there is information here for you.

Fly-tying how-to videos, with materials and supply listing and a description on best use and for what it lures in.

About Familiar Waters

Mike Pawlawski is a former pro quarterback and world-class fly fisherman who loves sharing his passion for the great outdoors with others. After an 11 year playing career starting with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL and ending with the San Francisco Demons of the XFL, Mike hosted his own fly fishing show, "Familiar Waters," for 15 years. The show took viewers to some of the most iconic fly fishing destinations in the world, including the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, the rugged rivers of the Rocky Mountains, and the expansive beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Along the way, Mike shared his knowledge and expertise with viewers, offering tips and tricks for fly fishing success.

Passion for fishing and the outdoors

For fly fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts looking for guidance and inspiration, Mike Pawlawski is the perfect choice. With his vast experience and expertise, he's a trusted and respected voice in the world of fly fishing, and his passion for the great outdoors is contagious. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to learn the ropes, Mike is the perfect guide to help you experience the beauty and excitement of fly fishing.

Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, we have everything you need to make the most of your time on the water. At Familiar Waters Fishing, we understand that fly fishing is more than just a hobby - it's a way of life. That's why we strive to provide the best content, products, resources, and information to help you pursue your passion for this timeless sport.

Our videos and blog can be a resource for your next adventure on the water. From rods and reels to waders and boots, we have the knowledge to get your going in fly fishing. Or compare your expertise and see if adding in new techniques brings in more fish. At fwfishing.com find the latest techniques or recommendations on flies, tippet, and other essential accessories to help you land that trophy catch.

In addition to our top-quality products, we also offer a wealth of knowledge and resources to help you improve your skills and enjoy the sport to the fullest. Our blog is filled with articles, tips, and techniques to help you master the art of fly fishing. We also offer online courses and instructional videos to help you learn at your own pace.

At FW Fishing,  we are a community of fly fishing enthusiasts who are passionate about sharing our love of the sport. Whether you are looking to learn more about fly fishing, shop for the best gear, or connect with like-minded anglers, we have something for everyone. We have and are building on information to have the best gear in your quiver like a fly rod, fly reel, fly line to waders and the best equipment for you.

Whether you fish for trout or stripers, or even those feisty blue fish and even tarpon, there are tid-bits of information for you here at Familiar Waters fishing.

Mike is known for through football spirals, but he also knows how to cast a fly rod and getting the flies where they need to be. His casting techniques are nothing new, but he also breaks the cast down into segments and effectively gets the bug in the drift consistently. Whether putting nymphs in the best location in the river column to a great float of a dry fly in an active trout pocket.

So if you're ready to experience the thrill of fly fishing, look no further than FW Fishing. Mike and our team is dedicated to helping you make the most of your time on the water.


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