Most of us do not get as much time on the water as we would like. My mission is to ensure that when you do get the chance to fish, you have the knowledge and the confidence to succeed.

I am Jeff Smecker. I have served in public education for over thirty years as both a teacher and a school principal. When I am not in my office or at my fly-tying vise, I am usually on the limestone streams of Central Pennsylvania.

I am not a professional guide or a member of a national team. I am a regular guy who believes in the power of education. My goal is to create a space where we can continue to study the sport we love.

I believe that the best way to improve is to understand the core concepts behind what we do. When we understand the "why" behind a technique, we can adapt and transfer those skills to the many different challenges we face when chasing trout.

Every post here is designed to teach a specific lesson. Since I am not an authority on every topic I cover, I make sure to include the resources and experts that helped me deepen my own understanding. This is a place where we examine the details of the sport together.

The best classrooms are places where students feel free to take risks. As the lead learner of this site, I want to create a community where we can all learn from one another. Aside from the proper handling and release of the trout we catch, there is almost never just one right way to do something in fly fishing.

When you are not on the water, I hope TroutStrike becomes a space for you to laugh and reflect. I want to help make your time on the stream more successful and enjoyable.

Thank you for your support of TroutStrike.

Spend more time on the water,

Jeff Smecker

TroutStrike Fly Fishing, LLC