Episode 25 - The Perfect Upland Shotgun and Tom Rosenbauer’s Fly Fishing Legacy

The right shotgun, a legendary fly fisherman, and decades of hard-earned lessons reveal what makes great days outdoors. Two conversations explore the craftsmanship, instincts, and curiosity that separate good days in the field from unforgettable ones. First, Field & Stream shotgun expert Phil Bourjaily breaks down what makes an upland shotgun worth carrying, from weight and balance to fit, gauge, and the demands of different bird-hunting environments. Whether you're chasing pheasants across South Dakota, hunting ruffed grouse in thick cover, or pursuing wild quail over pointing dogs, Bourjaily explains how to choose a gun that shoots where you look and fits the way you hunt. He also shares why shooting fundamentals matter more than finding the lightest shotgun on the rack. Then, fly fishing legend Tom Rosenbauer reflects on five decades at Orvis and a lifetime spent learning, teaching, and chasing fish. From tying flies commercially as a teenager to helping popularize beadhead nymphs and tungsten beads, Rosenbauer shares the experiences behind his lasting influence on modern fly fishing. He explains how to read trout streams, identify productive water, improve your approach to unfamiliar fisheries, and become a more effective angler by slowing down and observing conditions. The conversation also explores conservation, the next generation of anglers, and why even experienced fishermen should never stop learning. Whether you're refining your upland hunting setup or looking to sharpen your fly fishing skills, these are practical lessons from two experts who have spent their lives in pursuit of better days outdoors. Follow the Field & Stream podcast for more expert hunting, fishing, and outdoors conversations. Get more from Field & Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/ Get to know your host, Colin Kearns: https://www.fieldandstream.com/authors/colin-kearns              Join the F&S 1871 Club and experience a membership dedicated to the outdoor culture of sporting traditions, storytelling, and the conservation of our lands: https://www.fieldandstream.com/1871-club/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices