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Lefty Kreh

Former Fly Fisherman contributor and Editor-at-Large

Bernard "Lefty" Kreh (1925–2018) was a longtime Fly Fisherman contributor and Editor-at-Large. Lefty, as he's widely known, was one of the most influential figures in the history of fly fishing—a pioneering angler, educator, author, and conservationist whose impact shaped modern casting, gear design, and fly‑fishing instruction. Known as much for his gregarious, plainspoken style as for his technical brilliance, Kreh had a rare gift for making fly fishing approachable, fun, and accessible to anglers of all levels. He authored dozens of books and articles, and his legacy continues to guide anglers around the world.

Latest From Lefty Kreh

Worldwide

Flats Fishing 101: 23 Proven Tips from Lefty Kreh

A master fly angler's essential techniques for saltwater flats success for bonefish, tarpon, redfish, & more—from stealthy boat prep to perfect strip‑strikes.

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Lefty Kreh

Fly Fisherman Throwback: The Approach–Your Fishing Success Depends on It

Why clothing, body position, noise discipline, and watercraft strategy determine whether fish feed, flee, or strike.

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Destinations

Lefty's 15 Best Saltwater Fly-Fishing Destination Tips

From fly swatters to learning tides, an expert fly angler weighs in on the most important ways to prepare.

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Throwbacks

Fly Fisherman Throwback: Everglades Bass

An overlooked largemouth-bass fishery lies within easy reach of the fly fisherman. Here are some notes on tackle and tactics for Everglades bass.

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Throwbacks

Fly Fisherman Throwback: The Last Horizon–Saltwater Fly Fishing

There are still big waters which have never felt the slap of a fly.

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How-To

Cast Away the Aches with Lefty Kreh

Shoulder injury? Stay “on the shelf” to place less strain on your elbow, shoulder, and wrist.

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Worldwide

Fly Fisherman Throwback: Winter is for the Snow Birds

Mr. Salt surveys the lands –and waters–to the south for the best fly fishing.

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How-To

Lefty Kreh on Casting Bamboo Fly Rods

Learn to eliminate inefficient shock waves.

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Flies

Fly Fisherman Throwback: Lefty Kreh's Ten Saltwater Flies

Five of these basic patterns work in most saltwater situations, and another five work especially well for bonefish.

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Saltwater

Fly Fisherman Throwback: Fly Fishing for Sharks: Don't Wait for the Movie

The next time you fish the flats, plan on fly-fishing for sharks. It just may turn out to be the most exciting part of your trip.

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How-To

Lefty's Fishing Knots 101

Use the right knots and tie them properly to stay connected to fish.

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Saltwater

Fly Fisherman Throwback: Big Tarpon

Ordinarily, Lefty Kreh is a clean-living, God-fearing type, beloved among men. But–get him in the stern of a skiff in the Florida Keys with a saltwater novice and he turns into a vicious drill sergeant ... a man who has been in the front lines and must prepare his men to make the same trip. Witness the demise, and rise, of top fresh-water fly-rodder Doug Swisher in his first encounter with the salt ... and the tarpon.

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