Andy Dear | Monday, 26 April 2021
For the last year or so, a podcast called The Mill House has been popping up in my youtube search suggestions. I wasn't really sure what "The Mill House" was, and quite honestly didn't take the time to investigate the possibility that it may be something I'd enjoy. That is, until I saw Flip Pallot advertised as a featured guest....that of course got my attention.
For the uninitiated, Andy Mill is a former Olympic level downhill skier, turned flyfishing addict. Over the years he has carved out a reputation as a top-tier tournament angler and successful TV host, specializing in fly fishing for Tarpon. The Mill House is a podcast he and his son Nicky started a year or so ago that documents the careers of some of the most well known fly fishing guides, tournament anglers, and world record chasers both past and present.
I've only gotten through about half of the podcasts, but so far this has been an EXTREMELY enjoyable series to listen to while tying flies or building rods....or for that matter, while doing nothing at all. The quality of the video and audio is top notch, and Mill's genuine love for the sport is not only evident in the respect for the relationships he has with his guests, but also the attention he brings to the multiple environmental causes he champions that the state of Florida is currently facing.
Among my favorite so far are the episodes that feature Capt. Steve Huff, Tom Evans, Capt. Mark Krowka, Tim Mahaffy, Al Pflueger and of course Flip Pallot. The episode with Norman Duncan however most certainly ranks on top of my playlist. Norman was one of the original members of the South Florida contingent that also included Flip Pallot, Chico Fernandez, John Emory and several other influential anglers. While the others in the group went on to pursue full time careers in angling and develop well known personas, Duncan stayed below the radar and became a civil engineer that worked on 7-mile bridge in the keys. His influence in knot development with innovations like the Duncan loop and bimini twist, and fly pattern design like the Cockroach however had a monumental impact that still resonates heavily in the sport today. Any angler who considers himself a serious student of not only the sport of fly fishing but also the crafts of fly tying and rod building owes it to themselves to give this interview a listen....it's eye opening, to say the least.
Although you can listen to the podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app. I prefer to watch them on youtube. Andy and Nicky have done a great job on this project, and I urge all of you to subscribe to their channel...you won't regret it. It is a fascinating insight into some of the most brilliant and experienced angling minds on the planet.
https://www.facebook.com/millhousepodcast/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jzsD4lKviI8HYB3c5lAjA
Hope you all have a great week!
Andy