Esopus Creel

06/27/2024

04/01/2024

The rules may change, but opening day is opening day. Tight lines to this community of anglers. Our commitments to conservation and the protection of the Mighty E are a true testament to our love of rivers. Fish often. Look around. Be gentle.

11/07/2023

The Blue Collar Special. Lately, I find myself wading in a world within a world. I am adjacent to giants of our craft. The very best of fly tyers and whittlers of cane. The flesh and honor of individuals who have given their precious time to protect rivers. I have held the hands that held the hands. I have, quite literally, worn their clothing, cast their rods, and gazed upon the inner cogs of a history so well defined, that to err is to sin upon its very name. I rub shoulders with my idols and all the tropes that come with them. But still, I remain, or strive to remain, the humble angler.

After tying my silly modern nymphs amongst a crowd of dry fly purists on Saturday, I wanted to wet a line a step closer towards the romanticized angle. Which is to say, “the old way.” And so, I finally scratched a few firsts off my list with the humble gear I have at my disposal. Left behind were the ultralight everythings. The drag and the bead heads. The bags upon bags of nothingness.

My list of gear, from the top: Bean’s Double L Bamboo rod, “The Beanie” with the USA’s most popular line, Cortland’s 444 in peach… a 5-weight line that floats like cork… and if you need anything else, it’s likely a lesson. The reel that line is wrapped around is a very special one to me. An early Medalist with silver button and sculptured pillars, likely from the late 20’s or early 30’s - gifted to me by one of my mentors, John Hoeko. The drag is shot and it sounds like a dying turkey when you strip it out, but damn does it look good. The Eagle Claw net from the fishing counter of some now nameless hardware store on the banks of my Mighty E… sans nylon… and I’m dreaming the tale of two brothers forever changing the flow of my river. Their reputation sustains, all be it a bit tattered by modern minds… the Folkert’s made history and memories here. And as I pull stocked browns from fast waters of the now frigid Schoharie, I wonder the future of mine. The wrong river. Flick’s beloved beauty that sung sirens to Manhattanites until the Inn finally burned. It was an end.

I am softer when soothed. The river lapping my stride and step. And they… they are right there… always.

11/02/2023

Last weekend the little man and I joined members of on a redd survey of the Esopus. is using an app to aggregate survey data nationwide. It’s simple, but pretty darn cool. The group spread out far and wide including tributaries and the main stem of the river. Some struck out. Some struck gold. We found three completed redds and a new appreciation for streamgazing without rod in hand. For him, the idea that a trout flipped sideways to smack its tail on the riverbed and clean rocks was just amazing. I’ve witnessed hens cleaning and it’s almost disorienting how awkward it is the see the white of a trout’s belly flash in the current. What a beautiful day and memory. Thanks to the chapter for organizing this event. Restraint and patience are the virtue.

10/31/2023

Esopus Creel wishes you a very Happy Halloween.

10/13/2023

Glory Days at the Bartlett Angling Collection located within - This Sunday.

10/02/2023

05/29/2023

Rare moment on the other side of the camera. Fishing with my better half.

05/09/2023

This year, I made a conscious decision to not fish the Esopus until May. It was a long wait, but day one was truly special. Found rainbows with nymphs, dry droppers, and amazingly… on dries. The rewards of will and patience could, as my dear uncle Olaf used to say, fill a creel. New paths have brought me a renewed sense of focus in my time on the water. Doing it right the first time shouldn’t feel like such a surprise, yet skill and intuition always tend to meet at the crossroads.

I am often blinded by the glare on the surface of things. Polarization rarely helps the matter. A squinted pause does not focus the riddle but fewer false casts always increase our chances of success.

Go slow good friends. It is never the same river.

Gratitude and grace.

-T.S.

05/02/2023

Join me Thursday night at Shandaken Inn. Pick my brain, or very happy to tune up your cast, weather permitting. Heck feel free to come tie some flies if you’d like. All lovers of rivers are welcome. If it’s a really nice day, might do a group fish ahead of time. DM me if interested. Hope to see you there!

03/26/2023

These are a few of my favorite things. Tying with John Hoeko & Judd Weisberg at Van Dusen’s on the banks of the Schoharie Creek with friends old and new. Wishing everyone tight lines this early season.

03/21/2023

Stopped by the river’s edge yesterday. Though flows are reading 500CFS at Coldbrook, the river seems low. This was discussed at length last year and I confirmed w the agencies that the gauge had been recalibrated several times since the flood of ‘20. Now, it seems even lower. I’m inclined to remind them/everyone that 500 at Coldbrook is no longer status quo for the rest of the river. It would be dangerously low when we’re experiencing a drought. Is 700 the new 500? Or is it more like 750? Water is also that perfect Catskill green/blue. As clear as we get, so this is also a liability for rainbow trout redds in terms of availability predation. On the bright side, if saw yesterday’s story, you know I just scored an old copy of LaBranche’s 1914 hit “The Dry Fly in Fast Water.” A pleasure to read and, whaddya know… many of the same observations and concerns regarding flow, turbidity, drought, and rebound rates after major events. Here’s my new safe space… the Esopus is a Shangri-La for spawning trout. Between the rich headwaters, diminishing yet ample tributaries, and safe haven of the reservoir, the trout continue to rebound through abundant propagation. With that in mind, I expect this year to deliver the beginnings of a concern for brown trout who have been hit hard during their spawning times a few years back. That dip in YOY should peak next season and start to normalize after that. For now… rainbow trout fishing this spring should be incredible!! Speaking of which… happy Spring to all… and to all, a tight line.

03/04/2023

At this point I’m working on a project about nearly every angler of note in the history of the Eastern Catskills. Today, with the West Kill valley silent in snow, I’m reading about Art Flick. Lately, when asked where I live, I reply with a grin, “smack dab in between Art Flick and Judd Weisberg.” While the West Kill Inn is long gone, the old Flick residence still stands proudly atop a little hill that overlooked where the Inn used to stand. It’s painted the now seemingly requisite Catskill black, but it is by the standards of any generation, a beautiful home. In that home lived Art and his wife Lita. For all the love and lore surrounding Art, it’s Lita I’m thinking about this morning. The women who love anglers are a special breed. Terms like “fishing widow” are truisms to their core, but to fully understand the catch-and-release relationship one must live within it, with the same passion and reality we inhabit our relationships with rivers. With nothing short of true love.

I was at a dinner party earlier this week where the fishing widow of a good angling friend complimented the loveliness of my partner. My reply… “Thank you. I know. I’m no longer fishing.” My thoughts drift to an embroidered green pillow I once saw at the old Orvis location in NYC. “A fisherman lives here with the catch of a lifetime,” it read.

I do not know much about the relationship between Art and Lita, but I know the dynamic, and it’s a good way to express that collective feeling I think many anglers share about their significant others. Another good angling friend of mine lost his rock this week and for him, and her, I hurt. This is my means of honor and prayer… a gentle reminder to pull your beloveds close today. It’s a catch and keep morning here in the Catskills.

-T.S.

01/28/2023

This is The Creel, discovered half buried in the dirt under my first home in the Catskills. A kit house, built by a fly fisherman. The clasp is an articulated tin and leather trout. This is the Esopus Creel for which my company is named. I named the company after a symbol of harvesting because I wanted to be fearless about all conversations regarding rivers and the trout that inhabit them. I wanted to spark communication and divert discussions about C&R away from morality and more towards conservation. The long tail of education is often the only way to adjust behavior without compromising our civil integrities. But I digress… the shop is no longer serving that purpose to which I am admittedly more devoted, than to selling the wares of our trade. I close these doors to open other ones that I feel have a greater impact to our Catskills communities and to my own mental health. Running a fly shop is hard and woefully unprofitable. Thanks to everyone who has been a part of this chapter. Important to remind everyone that the only thing changing is the shop. Everything else will continue, and in the fashion with which I founded Esopus Creel. The mission of EC is a simple one, devoid of a requisite involvement with fly fishing… “to make people fall in love with rivers.” That’s the mission. So when we need to protect them, there are a million people willing to sign a petition, or donate funds to meet a need. Thanks everyone. Please stop by this weekend and say hey. Tight lines. Gratitude and grace.

-T.S.

01/22/2023

That time I tried to explain the Rosgen system to the Rosgen’s. The story came up earlier this week while presenting to . I was having some dinner at when I overheard the group next to me clearly chatting about stream-side restoration. The rest is history. On the left in this pic is Dave Rosen, Ph.D., Mastermind behind a modern stream classification system & management protocols that is the gold standard for best practices when it comes to restoration projects. In our watershed, the Rosgen’s influenced work in the Stony Clove… projects that are now a destination for hydrology and geomorphology students. His son Brandon, right, will carry on their family business, Wildland Hydrology. Something I admire about their offering is that they can be hired for any or all parts of a project, including evaluation, consultation, design, and implementation. Additionally, they are hired to teach techniques to municipalities so that local workers are brought up to speed about contemporary practices that help protect both trout habitat and private property from the effects of increased high water events.

01/20/2023

Thinking of Bert today. Seemed like a great reminder of his accomplishments to re-post. Happy weekend to all.

01/18/2023

I’m presenting live in Kingston tonight. Zoom link in story.

The Mighty Esopus examines the unique history, geology, and fishing heritage of Esopus Creek in the Eastern Catskill Mountains. The creek's ideal geological environment for trout, formed millions of years ago and perfected by the last ice age, has made it a popular destination for anglers. The introduction of American dry fly fishing in the early 1900s further established the creek as a top-rated fishery in the Northeast. In addition to exploring the creek's fishing history, The Mighty Esopus also discusses the construction of the nation's largest all-natural reservoir system, which supplies New York City with 40% of its water, and the efforts of local anglers to conserve not only their home waters, but nearly every river of the Catskills. Presented by Esopus Creel founder Todd Spire, the stories of the Esopus are woven together to create a snapshot of how geology, history, conservation, and a profound love of rivers have helped maintain a vibrant fishery in the face of countless obstacles.

01/16/2023

I have rescued those drowning, inches deep in the river, with three simple words: “just stand up.” Today, I am the submerged. I am in need of a simple reminding. The river says, “you make paintings.” The beaver says, “you make waves.” The father says, “you make memories.” So, what then, when I’ve forgotten how to paint?

There is a yearning in all of us, I hope, to leave something. To build legacy, through name or efforts. The river provides a simulacrum of secret desire every time we fool and fo**le a trout, but does it amount to memory? Does it accumulate to anything beyond evidence of time spent outdoors? How much weight is carried in a vest… in a cast?

“Just stand up,” I screamed a second time, but still he moaned of my deplorability.

I have laid down at the edge of the river. To feel the lap, the riddle, the stench. I have soaked in and wept and stood proud for the accomplishments of others. I am the leader of another king’s legions reporting back that we are tired and hungry, but full of victory… still ready to fight.

I am a tight line,
Not within striking distance.
I am but liquid.

-T.S.

12/25/2022

Where does a river begin? Surely not with eyes on a few accumulated drops. It begins with the unseen. Something deep and driven. It somehow must go up… to come down. It must pool to propel. Levitation. At what point can we submerge ourselves in it? Is it depth, or are we soaked the moment she has touched every inch of your skin? More the point, are rivers simply repeating themselves over and again. Praying to be deciphered. A message whispered above pebbles. Screamed from falls. Hear me. Hear me. Hear me.

I will always be. I will always give thanks, even when my music goes unheard. For this photograph is but a visual memory of the tune I sing for you.

This picture is the beginning of our beloved Esopus. Wishing you and yours new beginnings in the coming year. OR… an enraptured return to where you believe you began.

Tight lines and peace.
Gratitude and grace.

-T.S.

10/15/2022

TONIGHT!!!!

10/12/2022

Please join us this Saturday night for a quick drink to celebrate surviving the 2022 season. It's been a rough one, and while we know it's not entirely over, October 15 used to signal the end of fishing season in New York. At this point I think the beer count is over 80+ at Van Dusen's, which also offers wine and a few local brews on tap including West Kill Brewing LLC & Woodstock Brewing. All are welcome, especially lovers of rivers.
Judd Weisberg is likely tying some flies since he lives across the street! We'll also have some autographed copies of Ed Ostapczuk's new book on hand as well.
6-8pm. Tight lines. See you there!

Van Dusen's
4021 New York 42
Lexington, NY 12452

The Ashokan-Pepacton Watershed Chapter of Trout Unlimited
Catskill Fly Tyers Guild
Catskill Mountains Trout Unlimited

10/10/2022

It is skewed and cold and the trout may have different things in mind. Look up. There are still leaves on trees, greens, insects. While our game dwindles there are still ripening fruits to keep us sweet. Covet the lingering trees while you can. Sleep comes soon.

09/08/2022

*SPECIAL EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT*
So excited to be part of ’s newest project: And North Adventures, bespoke upstate experiences for the curious traveler. Join us for an exclusive fly fishing event, September 24 or 25th! Experience the grandeur of the outdoors with a half-day of fly fishing in The Catskills followed by a private dinner at Deer Mountain Inn and a mountaintop sunset. All experience levels welcome. First-time guests will learn the fundamentals of fly casting from me and the Esopus Creel team of licensed guides and instructors. (All gear will be provided including rod, flies, and waders.)
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After an adventurous afternoon, experience the handsome luxury of where you will first enjoy a mountaintop hike to an expansive view of the Catskills complete with a campfire and glass of wine before digging into a special four course dinner in the hotel’s private dining room. Each day has only ten spots available, so book your tickets today!
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SEPTEMBER 24 & 25 ITINERARY
▪️12-4pm: Four hour private fly fishing instruction with Esopus Creel (all levels)
▪️5-8pm: Mountaintop excursion with glass of wine and campfire followed by a special four course dinner at Deer Mountain Inn
✨VISIT THE LINK IN PROFILE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS✨
(Please note that transportation will not be provided)
Photos by

08/22/2022

LIVESTREAM
TONIGHT 8/22 - 7pm

What’s happening on the Esopus + Q&A. I’ll repost for those who can’t make it.

Image is a near dry East Kill, which is a trib to the Schoharie. This is where our troubles on the Esopus begin.

08/10/2022

“I really needed this.” I remember saying those words the day I caught this fish. I saw someone else say it in a fishing video a few days ago and so I’ve been ruminating on this idea for a few suns. The desire for a “big” fish stands entirely separate from our desires for many fish or a specific fish. It’s funny, because even though we’re all aware that bigger trout are generally smarter and harder to catch, there’s something about connecting with one that truly feels like Mother Earth has given you a gift. Certainly catching a bunch or targeting that one trout in that one run behind that one rock reaffirms our skills enourmously, right? Maybe knowing that sometimes we can drift the perfect cast over the heads of young ones as easily as we could Old Bess, leaves us with a sense of randomness to the size of any one fish. Or as papa Maclean says, “we are all truly blessed, but some of us more than others.”

So why do those words escape our lips? “I really needed that!” Does the accomplishment make us feel uniquely singled out for a day of special treatment courtesy of mother natures divine spirit? What a beautiful thought sitting below a declaration that’s as base as it is an intimate revealing that life’s been tough. Ultimately, it’s simple… a big win makes the woe’s of the world a little more tolerable. At least for the moment. Let us allow our Devine moments to last persistently. We are so quick to feel burdened. Let us fight to stay light.

Gratitude and grace. - T.S.

08/08/2022

Here’s a look at water temperatures on the lower Esopus, a few miles above the Ashokan Reservoir, for the last 30 days. Add 2-3 degrees for what’s happening at the Ashokan Rail Trail bridge. Water temps above this gauge have not been much cooler as the Schoharie Reservoir is low and hot. The increased and unfortunately warm releases from the portal are an attempt to keep rocks at the stream’s edge from heating the Esopus even more. No one has ever seen sustained temperatures like this on the Esopus, so the consequences are, at this point, still unknown. I witnessed my first fish kill on June 30th (exhausted 14” rainbow) and have executed only three trout trips on the Esopus in the last 30 days. They were all deliberately timed with colder releases from the portal. Mother Nature is always in charge of the experiences I’m able to share with others. I try to lead and teach with as much dignity as I can muster. Saying no is hard, and even harder on the $$ state of the business. Please join me in prayers for rain… and the finned ones. Gratitude and grace. - T.S.