The author and a fishing friend, paying their dues to Festus.

Benevolent Ass

Drake Magazine Back Issue 2026, Drake Magazine Spring 2026, Homepage Content, Stream Access, TroutLeave a comment

There is a holler high in the hills of East Tennessee, guarded by an ornery old ass named Festus. His bellows shake the walls of the valley night and day as he protects his livestock and property. Donkeys are stubborn and strong-willed guardians; known to fight off all manner of danger to protect their herd. Festus looks over a group of about forty cattle and is warden to a small creek that borders the pastures he roams. A small creek with big trout.

PC: Declan Rogers

The DrakeCast #75: Clyde Rides Again w/ John Agricola

DrakeCast Fly Fishing Podcast, Homepage Content, Ride With ClydeLeave a comment

For those of you who subscribe to the Drake Magazine, you’ll notice it’s been a while since we’ve heard anything about Clyde, the magazine’s 1974 Mercury Marquis that travels the country. This car invites mishaps, cops, and adoration from anyone who sees him. But where has he been, and what’s he been up to? Today on the podcast, we speak with writer John Agricola to check in on Clyde and hear about his latest adventures.

Park Service opened all of what were once known as “red line” brookie streams in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Smokies Survivor—Return of the red line brook trout

Conservation, Drake Magazine Back Issue Content 2015, Drake Magazine Back Issue Content Summer 2015, Trout, U.S. places1 Comment

In 2015, the Park Service opened all of what were once known as “red line” brookie streams in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In doing so, it endorsed both anglers and trout. It is now the official policy of the United States to let these Appalachian natives be their own brookie selves. Contributor Zach Matthews…