This month we are featuring Jenny O’Brien from Bend Oregon. Jenny is a Untied Women on the Fly Facebook Moderator and we’re beyond lucky to have her! Learn more about Jenny below.
How did you learn to fly fish?
From my grandfather and my dad.
How often Do You Fish?
As frequently as possible! I try to get out at least once a week if I can.
Whats the one pice of gear you can't live withought?
A Patagonia Down Sweater jacket. It’s well-loved and good luck.
What’s one habit you have on the water that you think others could benefit from learning?
Stop and observe moving water before casting. Look at the seams, the structure, how the currents move, and fish it like a grid.
Any particular apps that help with fishing?
OnX to make sure you’re not trespassing.
Podcast you listen to most?
Millhouse and Huberman Lab
Favorite Place to Fish?
The Deschutes River.
Earliest Alarm Setting for a Day Fishing?
3:00 am for summer steelhead.
What's the one song that never gets old when you're fishing?
Gypsy by Fleetwood Mac.
Do You have a go to fishing film?
Not necessarily but I love watching Silver Kings on TV.
How do you see the future of fly fishing?
More conservation focused. We need to spend as much time, if not more, advocating for our waterways and fisheries.
Who's the one person who has had the biggest impact on your fly fishing journey?
My dad – he has been so supportive of my interest in fishing and is my favorite fishing buddy.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
Beach/sand volleyball is a huge passion of mine, and I spend a lot of time playing in the summer.
What’s the one piece of advice you would give to anyone who is new to the sport of fly fishing and is just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and try to find a local group to meet like minded folks where you can share info and make friends.
How has United Women on the Fly impacted your life/fly fishing community?
UWOTF has really helped broaden my network of friends from all over the country and world. It’s so wonderful to learn about new fisheries, and other species, and have places to travel to.
