Video: Fly Fishing in Central Park with NYC’s Only Licensed Guide

A wave of relief washed in as the pressure of getting skunked faded—even if the smell of one only intensified. It wouldn’t have been the first time I’ve ended a day without fish to net, but certainly the first with several pals in tow documenting the outing. Hoisting the fat fish out of the net for a photo, it was hard to ignore the pungency of its odor. Yes, all fish smell, but boy, do carp stink on a whole new level. Add in some generally gnarly NYC lake water and you’ve got one nasty cocktail.

Odor aside, the Cyprinus carpio was massively fun to pursue and put up a strong fight once hooked. While carp fishing may not take over as my go-to species to chase after with a fly, the experience gave me a new appreciation for the species—and for fishing in city centers at that. If nothing else, fishing in Central Park provided a healthy reminder that a dose of nature and a hint of adventure are often more within reach than we might think. You just gotta know where to look.

If you’re interested in learning more about NYC fly fishing with Dr. Brandon Dale, reach out directly through Instagram or his website, Carp in the Park. Tell him Bob sent ya!

Source: https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/fly-fishing-central-park-park-nyc