David, how is Cody from Wellema Hat Co doing? I saw the note on their website that the shop was completely destroyed by the wildfires. My heavens, I hope they're okay and find a way to bounce back. He is such a talented craftsman with his hat (I love my Angler) and outstanding and thoughtful in his customer service.
Oh that's hard to say. I think if more people were interested in art for art's sake that would probably be a good thing. Old novels, paintings, opera. Things that don't seem immediately relevant but in fact explain a lot about human nature and are a pleasure in their own right.
Good morning David. I would love to purchase a Ghurka Express bag for travel although it is just not affordable for me. Would a decent alternative be the Filson 48 Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag, at least in terms of style and functionality? https://www.filson.com/products/48-hour-tin-cloth-duffle-bag-otter-green-2. Thank you!
Hi John, I have this exact bag and use it all the time. I love it. Not made in the US like old Filson bags, but it works really well and I think it looks great.
Finished “Autumn in Venice” a couple weeks ago. Thoughtful, insightful biography.
I do think “Across the River and Into the Trees” is better than the original reviews. Given his mental health at the time and subsequently, it accentuates his talent, or gift, to have still been able to write it and “The Old Man and the Sea.”
Many years ago I read a slim biography about Steinbeck. I can’t remember the title nor the author. But what I do remember is in the preface the author made it a point to mention he intentionally never met Steinbeck. “Intentionally” because he had met Hemingway.
Have you ever commented on James David Duncan’s “The River Why”?
Do you have any recommendations on fly fishing apparel that’s more in line with Emerger vs the more “modern/technical” (not sure what the right term would be) styles of today?
Well that's the search isn't it. I'm always looking for good khaki shirts (old Filson or Ralph Lauren or Wallace & Barnes). Barbour style jackets. And a lot of time on eBay. I'm working on a shirt project that's coming out this summer so stay tuned for that.
Looking for your recommendations for the best fly boxes, maybe something that feels/looks vintage (aluminum?) but more functional than the ones I’ve been finding in EBay?
Oh definitely Wheatley. Made in UK. Classic. They're all over eBay (go to their site if you prefer) and you can decide which configuration you prefer. If that's too old time for you then look for a Tacky Fly Box. Those are plastic but still good.
Hi David, thanks for doing these. They’re always a treat. I wanted to ask about bags specifically for work. I work on film sets, so a work bag is more a place to hold what I might need through a 12 hour day (laptop, chargers, water bottle, jacket, hat, etc.) I’m looking to upgrade from my current bag. Been rocking a Dispatch day pack for the last 7 years and it’s built like a tank. With that said, I’m ready to graduate beyond a backpack. My work bag usually just hangs from the camera cart, so I can grab things when needed. It would be nice though to not feel like a “big kid” when walking into work. I’m trying to find something $500 or under. Any suggestions?
I’ve played the role of Goldilocks when it comes to Filson and have owned their padded computer bag (heavy), 48-hour (huge), and 24-hour (just right), and for everyday or business carry, there’s really nothing better than the 24-hour. It’s the perfect size, with decent durability. I’m able to carry several iPad devices, a notebook, magazine, mirrorless camera, AirPods Max, and all the needed supplies to keep me on the road 150+ days a year, with very few drawbacks. The only challenge is finding one. Especially in navy!
Thanks for keeping these Q&As coming—they’re always worth reading. I’ve been taking writing more seriously lately. Any advice for someone looking to go deeper into the craft?
Hi Steve, well I think the best thing anybody can do is to write a lot (naturally) then to try to get your work into a magazine or website, if you really want it to be out in the world. That's a whole process and at first it's less about you expressing yourself and more about doing what a magazine needs from you. It's worth thinking if writing is something you do for yourself or for an audience. And it's important to be honest about that. There's no right way, but it's good to be clear about that. It makes everything that follows easier. oh, and read a lot of E.B. White.
Any guidance on if or how T-shirts can be incorporated into the wardrobe? There are a lot of them out there, but I don’t know how or when to incorporate them unless it’s something like a solid color V-neck under a chore jacket.
I don't think a T-shirt is very happy under a sport coat. If you don't want to wear a button up shirt under your coat then wear a polo. Under a chore coat is fine. But you can live a fulfilled and happy life with no T-shirts at all. That's worked for me, anyway.
Agreed... I never feel right wearing a T'shirt... even to bed. I prefer old polo's or even old OCBD's when it's colder here in New England. My favorite is an old cashmere sweater when it's really cold.
Hi David, I’ve fished some of the same tracks as you including with Peter in Patagonia. I’m heading back to Montana for a few days on the Mo next week and I’m curious your thoughts on tipping your guide these days. Any advise? Cheers!
Oh nice. I usually tip $100/day. And if it's a special day then $120. And if I'm with the same guide for a few days and we've got along well then I tip him more on the last day. Maybe an extra $50 or 60, depending on how many days it's been. If there's a fair amount of leftover whisky then I'll give him the bottle (if he's into that sort of thing). And if it's a warm weather place where the guides don't get a lot of gear (like the Bahamas) then I'll donate some leaders and flies and anything else that he might find useful.
I should add: If the guide is also the outfitter and has done a lot of work for you (like Peter does in Patagonia) then I think it makes sense to give him an envelope at the end of the trip (maybe $100). It's hard to keep track of all this. But you just try to do the right thing and be generous when you can.
Scot — we may be on the Mo next weekend floating/fishing in our raft — if you see a Riocraft with a border collie hanging off the side please say hello
Good morning! I have enjoyed some of the pieces you have written for Crockett & Jones on lasts, suede, etc. For those of us braving NYC streets to work daily, when is it appropriate to seek out dress shoes with rubber (city) soles? For certain shoes, like brogues, this seems fine, but there are certain categories where this feels like a mismatch.
To be clear, I am not talking about “dress shoe sneakers,” which are anathema.
Hey David! Still haven't decided on a new briefcase... I've been searching for vintage Ghurka bags but they're quite hard to find here in the EU. What are your thoughts on the Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase?
I know I am way too late for this, but here goes. My son will be a freshman at college in New York in the fall (NYU). He currently has standard issue teenage boy where, although thank God he tends to avoid sportswear and team jerseys. I want to take him shopping and outfit him with some clothes that he may need while he lives in New York, clearly living the student lifestyle in Greenwich Village as differential sartorial needs, but what would you recommend a kid like him brings so when the time comes he has the right clothes to wear?
Okay lads that was a good a one. You can still leave a question but it might take me longer to respond. Thanks!
Love this Homer!
David, how is Cody from Wellema Hat Co doing? I saw the note on their website that the shop was completely destroyed by the wildfires. My heavens, I hope they're okay and find a way to bounce back. He is such a talented craftsman with his hat (I love my Angler) and outstanding and thoughtful in his customer service.
Yes, their shop, inventory and everything else was completely destroyed. It's very sad. I think he's trying to pull it back together but it will take time. Here's a go fund me to help him out. https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-wellema-hat-co-family-after-la-fires
Thanks for letting me know David. Very sad.
For folks who are interested, news from Cody:
https://wellemahatco.com/so/a7PSVAona?languageTag=en&cid=124be620-a765-42a0-a1ce-c6c89f4c64ed
What do you wish more men were curious about?
Oh that's hard to say. I think if more people were interested in art for art's sake that would probably be a good thing. Old novels, paintings, opera. Things that don't seem immediately relevant but in fact explain a lot about human nature and are a pleasure in their own right.
Good morning David. I would love to purchase a Ghurka Express bag for travel although it is just not affordable for me. Would a decent alternative be the Filson 48 Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag, at least in terms of style and functionality? https://www.filson.com/products/48-hour-tin-cloth-duffle-bag-otter-green-2. Thank you!
Hi John, I have this exact bag and use it all the time. I love it. Not made in the US like old Filson bags, but it works really well and I think it looks great.
Finished “Autumn in Venice” a couple weeks ago. Thoughtful, insightful biography.
I do think “Across the River and Into the Trees” is better than the original reviews. Given his mental health at the time and subsequently, it accentuates his talent, or gift, to have still been able to write it and “The Old Man and the Sea.”
Across the River is always going to be tough for me. I never quite feel the colonel's tragedy. Here's a great Adam Gopnik story from a recent New Yorker about Lillian Ross's famous Hemingway profile and it makes some interesting points about the novel too. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/02/17/the-profile-hemingway-could-never-live-down
Yes, I read that—very good article.
Many years ago I read a slim biography about Steinbeck. I can’t remember the title nor the author. But what I do remember is in the preface the author made it a point to mention he intentionally never met Steinbeck. “Intentionally” because he had met Hemingway.
Have you ever commented on James David Duncan’s “The River Why”?
Hello David!
Do you have any recommendations on fly fishing apparel that’s more in line with Emerger vs the more “modern/technical” (not sure what the right term would be) styles of today?
Well that's the search isn't it. I'm always looking for good khaki shirts (old Filson or Ralph Lauren or Wallace & Barnes). Barbour style jackets. And a lot of time on eBay. I'm working on a shirt project that's coming out this summer so stay tuned for that.
Sounds like a plan. Thanks again!
Hi David,
Looking for your recommendations for the best fly boxes, maybe something that feels/looks vintage (aluminum?) but more functional than the ones I’ve been finding in EBay?
Oh definitely Wheatley. Made in UK. Classic. They're all over eBay (go to their site if you prefer) and you can decide which configuration you prefer. If that's too old time for you then look for a Tacky Fly Box. Those are plastic but still good.
Thank you sir!
Hi David, thanks for doing these. They’re always a treat. I wanted to ask about bags specifically for work. I work on film sets, so a work bag is more a place to hold what I might need through a 12 hour day (laptop, chargers, water bottle, jacket, hat, etc.) I’m looking to upgrade from my current bag. Been rocking a Dispatch day pack for the last 7 years and it’s built like a tank. With that said, I’m ready to graduate beyond a backpack. My work bag usually just hangs from the camera cart, so I can grab things when needed. It would be nice though to not feel like a “big kid” when walking into work. I’m trying to find something $500 or under. Any suggestions?
Does it need to be bigger than this Filson 48 Hour Duffel? https://www.filson.com/products/48-hour-tin-cloth-duffle-bag-otter-green-2
Love mine and finally after years getting the perfect patina. It’s a great size and I like the pockets.
No, that’s plenty big enough. Honestly, something a little smaller would be more ideal. Thank you for the rec!
I’ve played the role of Goldilocks when it comes to Filson and have owned their padded computer bag (heavy), 48-hour (huge), and 24-hour (just right), and for everyday or business carry, there’s really nothing better than the 24-hour. It’s the perfect size, with decent durability. I’m able to carry several iPad devices, a notebook, magazine, mirrorless camera, AirPods Max, and all the needed supplies to keep me on the road 150+ days a year, with very few drawbacks. The only challenge is finding one. Especially in navy!
Hi David,
Thanks for keeping these Q&As coming—they’re always worth reading. I’ve been taking writing more seriously lately. Any advice for someone looking to go deeper into the craft?
Hi Steve, well I think the best thing anybody can do is to write a lot (naturally) then to try to get your work into a magazine or website, if you really want it to be out in the world. That's a whole process and at first it's less about you expressing yourself and more about doing what a magazine needs from you. It's worth thinking if writing is something you do for yourself or for an audience. And it's important to be honest about that. There's no right way, but it's good to be clear about that. It makes everything that follows easier. oh, and read a lot of E.B. White.
Any guidance on if or how T-shirts can be incorporated into the wardrobe? There are a lot of them out there, but I don’t know how or when to incorporate them unless it’s something like a solid color V-neck under a chore jacket.
I don't think a T-shirt is very happy under a sport coat. If you don't want to wear a button up shirt under your coat then wear a polo. Under a chore coat is fine. But you can live a fulfilled and happy life with no T-shirts at all. That's worked for me, anyway.
Agreed... I never feel right wearing a T'shirt... even to bed. I prefer old polo's or even old OCBD's when it's colder here in New England. My favorite is an old cashmere sweater when it's really cold.
Hi David, I’ve fished some of the same tracks as you including with Peter in Patagonia. I’m heading back to Montana for a few days on the Mo next week and I’m curious your thoughts on tipping your guide these days. Any advise? Cheers!
Oh nice. I usually tip $100/day. And if it's a special day then $120. And if I'm with the same guide for a few days and we've got along well then I tip him more on the last day. Maybe an extra $50 or 60, depending on how many days it's been. If there's a fair amount of leftover whisky then I'll give him the bottle (if he's into that sort of thing). And if it's a warm weather place where the guides don't get a lot of gear (like the Bahamas) then I'll donate some leaders and flies and anything else that he might find useful.
I should add: If the guide is also the outfitter and has done a lot of work for you (like Peter does in Patagonia) then I think it makes sense to give him an envelope at the end of the trip (maybe $100). It's hard to keep track of all this. But you just try to do the right thing and be generous when you can.
Scot — we may be on the Mo next weekend floating/fishing in our raft — if you see a Riocraft with a border collie hanging off the side please say hello
David, I have to ask. What’s the provenance of the painting at the top of the post?
Winslow Homer!
Good morning! I have enjoyed some of the pieces you have written for Crockett & Jones on lasts, suede, etc. For those of us braving NYC streets to work daily, when is it appropriate to seek out dress shoes with rubber (city) soles? For certain shoes, like brogues, this seems fine, but there are certain categories where this feels like a mismatch.
To be clear, I am not talking about “dress shoe sneakers,” which are anathema.
I think C&J is great for more heavy duty city shoes, like these: https://us.crockettandjones.com/collections/mens-icons-collection/products/boston-darkbrown-country-calf-city For more refined dress shoes then you're right, you don't want that, those are usually narrower or more dandyish, like Belgian shoes. But generally those won't come with heavy-duty soles anyway, so you don't have to worry.
Hey David! Still haven't decided on a new briefcase... I've been searching for vintage Ghurka bags but they're quite hard to find here in the EU. What are your thoughts on the Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase?
I think Filson briefcases are great. Did you see this great ACL piece Michael wrote on his favorite Filson (which will lead you down another rabbit hole): https://www.acl.news/p/the-discontinued-bag-that-insiders?utm_source=publication-search
I’ve carried the Original Briefcase for 15+ years. Highly recommended. Keep your laptop size on the smaller side and you’ll be fine.
I know I am way too late for this, but here goes. My son will be a freshman at college in New York in the fall (NYU). He currently has standard issue teenage boy where, although thank God he tends to avoid sportswear and team jerseys. I want to take him shopping and outfit him with some clothes that he may need while he lives in New York, clearly living the student lifestyle in Greenwich Village as differential sartorial needs, but what would you recommend a kid like him brings so when the time comes he has the right clothes to wear?