About the Angler #2
Get to know Quinn Martin:
The other day I had the pleasure of getting out on the water with one of my best friends, Quinn Martin. Quinn and I met during our freshman year of high school and the fishing adventures began almost instantly. We started off spin fishing in ponds and lakes for Largemouth Bass. However, over time I began to make the shift into the world of fly fishing. Although it took Quinn a little longer to make the switch, I think we can both agree that he is now a fly angler. Here’s what Quinn had to say about his fly fishing experiences after our day on the water.
Name three things that have surprised you since getting into the sport of fly fishing
“The first thing that surprised me about fly fishing has to be the community. It’s amazing how friendly and supportive these people are, and also how singular the vision is about keeping waters clean and protecting fish. The next thing that continues to surprise me is the places I’ve discovered while fly fishing. I’ve lived in Maryland my whole life and because of fly fishing I’ve found some of the most incredible mountains and streams that most Maryland natives probably don’t even know exist. So, that’s a really one fun one for sure. I’d say the last thing that’s surprised me about fly fishing is how difficult it is. That might sound odd, but it’s a good thing. I’ve been fly fishing for less than two years, so I’m still improving and learning something new every time I get out there. It can be a struggle, but in the end, it’s worth it. Every snag, every cast into a tree, it pays off, it really does, and that’s the beauty of it. “
What was the first fish you ever caught on a fly rod?
“My first fish on a fly rod came in the summer of 2018, while I was transitioning, if you will, from conventional fishing into fly fishing. It was a blue gill, I think, or probably a redbreast sunfish to be more specific. It came on what was most likely a nymph suspended with an indicator. I sighted the whole thing and I remember how much of the fight I felt compared to using a spinning rod and stripping in the line opposed to reeling was definitely a cool new experience. Landing it was weirdly challenging to me, having to hold the line with one finger took some getting used to. Anyway, nothing crazy, but it was enough to intrigue me into fly fishing.“
What was your most memorable catch?
“As I said, I haven’t been fly fishing for very long, so this happened in December of 2018, and it was actually my first trout on a fly rod. I was with you and we pulled up on a relatively popular spot in the Catoctin Mountain area. It was either the first or second drift we hit, and you let me take it. I was throwing a zebra midge under an indicator, and like always, I was convinced there had to be a fish in this hole. After a few casts with no action, I wasn’t ready to move on. I took a cast, and I remember so clearly saying to myself, eat it, come on, eat it, and boom, my indicator shot down and I immediately lifted my rod. Again, this was my first trout on the fly so I kind of freaked out. I looked at you and started yelling, all while fighting this fish and trying to resist the urge to flip it onto land. We finally netted it and I was thrilled. It was no trophy, but a decent wild brown was enough to get my heart racing. And then, before heading home that day we cooked up some steaks. So, one of those days to be thankful for without a doubt.”
When was your first time fly fishing? What do you remember about it?
“Well, originally, we targeted bass on conventional gear, but a few years ago we decided to try catching stocked trout, which were being put in streams pretty close to us. At one point you started using the fly rod and eventually swore by it. You had me take some casts, and I wasn’t sold on it, probably because I didn’t really know how to cast properly. We did a guided fly trip at Savage River a few months later which really helped me get the hang of it, and ultimately appreciate the sport altogether.”
What advice would you give to someone first entering the sport?
“The best advice I can give someone entering fly fishing is to surround yourself with experience, whether that be going to your local fly shop or joining online communities, the resources are pretty vast. This community fosters learning, so it’s a welcome place for new anglers. Just take advantage of that. Also, don’t get discouraged. As I said earlier, fly fishing can be challenging. Maybe go to a local stream with gills to get better at casting while still catching fish. And finally, learn to love the hustle. Catching fish is a blast, but you’ll find that one of the most valuable aspects of fly fishing is just being able to step away from work or school and explore new areas.”
What is your favorite species to target?
“As of recently, my favorite species to target is the brook trout. I specifically targeted them last week and was able to land my first, which was a gorgeous native, and pretty sizeable for Maryland too. We caught a few that day, all on dries, which is pretty remarkable for wintertime in my opinion. Hoping to get on more this winter, maybe in West Virginia, so I’m pumped for that.”
Quinn does not currently have an Instagram, but be sure to keep an eye out on my Instagram @nativerelease for lots of featured content of him!