Devin Olsen is a distinguished name in fly fishing, known for his technical expertise, competitive success, and significant contributions to the sport. His approach combines scientific insight with practical experience, making him a respected figure among anglers.

I've had Devin on the podcast — listen to From Novice to World-Class Fly Fisher: The Journey of Devin Olsen.

From passion to profession

Devin's journey began in his youth, drawn to streams and rivers and developing a deep appreciation for the intricacies of aquatic ecosystems. That passion quickly evolved into a professional pursuit, setting the stage for a career marked by innovation and leadership.

He has also built a professional endeavour known as Tactical Fly Fisher, a blog and eCommerce store. The blog contains excellent insight into his techniques and competitive career.

Competitive achievements

A standout aspect of Devin's career is his success in international competition. As a member of Team USA in the World Fly Fishing Championships he has represented his country and secured multiple medals, underscoring his skill and dedication.

Tactical fly fishing

Tactical Fly Fishing by Devin Olsen

Devin is widely recognised for his strategic approach, particularly in nymph fishing. He authored the influential Tactical Fly Fishing: Lessons Learned from Competition for All Anglers, which goes deep into advanced techniques and strategies that make nymph fishing more effective. It's highly regarded for its detailed analysis and practical advice, and it's a must-read for serious anglers — check your library if you'd rather try before buying.

Educator and advocate

Beyond competition, Devin is passionate about educating others. He runs workshops and seminars covering everything from fly selection to river conservation, and posts instructional videos, blogs, and articles that reach a global audience.

The innovative fly tyer

Devin's expertise in fly tying is another area of real contribution. His patterns are designed to be both effective and efficient, addressing common challenges anglers face, and they reflect his scientific approach to understanding fish behaviour and habitat. A good example is his ever-popular prospecting fly, the Blow Torch — a tungsten jig with a bright collar, fished as a searching point fly.

Here is what we stock along the same lines:

Tungsten bead hot spot pheasant tail tactical jig nymph with chartreuse collar, six flies size 16

Hot Spot Pheasant Tail Jig — Size 16

Tungsten bead hot spot purple perdigon tactical jig euro nymph, six flies size 16

Hot Spot Purple Perdigon — Size 16

Tactical Czech Nymph Collection

The hot spot jigs are the closest thing in our range to a Blow Torch — same tungsten jig platform, same bright collar doing the attracting — and the Czech nymph collection covers the rest of a competitive nymphing box in sizes 12 through 16.

Conservation efforts

As a conservation advocate, Devin works to promote sustainable fishing practice. He's involved in projects and initiatives aimed at preserving aquatic environments and encouraging responsible angling, and that commitment is integral to how he operates.

Devin Olsen fly fishing

Impacting fly fishing globally

Devin's impact is profound. Through competitive achievement, education, and conservation advocacy he continues to shape the sport's future, and his approachable yet scientific methodology has inspired anglers at all levels to refine their skills with a conservation-minded perspective.

He remains a pivotal figure in modern fly fishing, consistently pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with a rod and reel.