Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

#993 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/993Presented by: Golden Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, AVC Rig, Redd's FliesIn this episode, Adam explains the hatches, flies, access, water conditions, boat fishing, wading, and presentation skills that matter on West Branch Delaware. He also shares how to recognize feeding rhythms, when to change flies, and why slowing down before the next cast can make a difference.The West Branch Delaware is one of those rivers where a trout can be holding in a narrow current seam and ignore a fly that passes only an inch or two away. Adam Franceschini has spent 15 spring seasons on the West Branch Delaware, learning how to approach its wild trout and technical dry fly fishing.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/993

#992 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/992Presented by: Smitty's Fly Box, Togiak River Lodge, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Jan Erik Granbo lives near Trondheim in central Norway, where he has around 40 Atlantic salmon rivers within his region. We dig into everything Atlantic salmong fishing, from the June salmon window and Scandinavian two-handed setups to finding resting fish, planning a Norway trip, and fishing dry flies later in summer.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/992

#991 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/991Presented by: Moccasin Fly ClubEvery destination has a season when the fishing feels just right, and along the Louisiana Coast, clear water, moving tides, and sight fishing are what make Louisiana redfish fly fishing so special.David Phelps from Southbound Fly Expeditions talks about seasonal redfish movements, changing weather, sight-fishing tactics, casting, flies, and tackle. We also dig into the three-day Louisiana trip we're putting together with Moccasin Fly Club.You'll hear how David sets up the fly for different redfish behaviors, why the 20- to 40-foot cast matters more than the 70-foot cast, and the biggest mistake he sees from trout anglers.#991 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/991

#990 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/990Presented by: Sullivan Fly Rods, Blue Bonefish Lodge, AVC Rig, Gallatin River LodgeBitterroot River fly fishing offers an unusual mix of water, from mountain-stream fishing in the headwaters to wide, technical flats closer to Missoula. Robert Prince spends about 90 percent of his guiding and fishing days on the Bitterroot, and he joins Dave to break down the river's major hatches, dry flies, nymphs, and presentations that help anglers find trout year-round.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/990

Listen to the full episode: https://wetflyswing.com/989Domenick Swentosky of Troutbitten joins us for one of the most-downloaded Wet Fly Swing episodes of 2020. Dom breaks down a different way to approach streamer fishing, one that borrows heavily from tight-line nymphing. Instead of relying on huge flies and aggressive retrieves, he explains why smaller streamers, precise presentations, and direct contact can be so effective for trout.We get into Dom's Mono Rig streamer setup, including why he likes a 20-pound Maxima Chameleon butt section, a 10-foot 4-weight, and a two-streamer system that helps him track what's happening below the surface. He also explains how he uses his sighter to judge depth, why he targets small pieces of water around rocks, wood, and banks, and why anglers may be stripping their streamer away from the best holding water too quickly.Dom also shares one of the most interesting concepts from the episode: streamer head position. You'll hear how he gets his fly facing down and across, why he wants to keep it near structure, and how his “slow slide” presentation gives trout an easier opportunity to eat. If you want to bring more control and precision to your streamer game, this episode gives you a different way to fish them.

#988 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/988Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory, Gallatin River Lodge, Fly Fish With Me Utah, DrifthookSponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Backcountry fly fishing has a way of simplifying things. When every ounce has to ride on your back, you start figuring out pretty quickly which pieces of fishing gear actually matter and which ones can stay at home.In this episode, Patrick and Daniel Bauman of Colter Backcountry take us into that world. We dig into ultralight backcountry gear, native trout across the West, wilderness safety, and the lessons they picked up backpacking and fishing far from the road.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/988

#987 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/987Presented by: No See Um LodgeAlaska trout fishing changes throughout the season, and Caleb Hitzfeld has spent nearly two decades watching those changes firsthand. In this episode, Caleb explains how salmon fry, insects, mice, eggs, and streamers shape Alaska trout fishing. No See Um Lodge also shares how the lodge's fly-out program gives anglers access to different rivers. The conversation begins with Caleb's journey from Texas to Alaska and eventually to owning No See Um Lodge.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/987

#986 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/986Presented by: Jackson Hole Fly Company, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Golden Fly Shop, TroutRoutesNearly 90 years after Grand Coulee Dam cut these fish off from the ocean, Steven Bird still fishes Upper Columbia rainbows that act a whole lot like steelhead. Today, we're getting into Trout Spey, wet flies, reading water, and the history behind this unique fishery.Steven is the author of Trout Spey and the Art of the Swing and associate editor at Swing the Fly. He shares what he's learned from decades on the Upper Columbia, along with swinging soft hackles, fishing small spiders, and finding good swing water.We also cover dead-drifting Bombers, leader setups, the Leisenring Lift, and what has changed on Steven's home water over the years.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/986

#985 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/985Presented by: Yellowstone Teton TerritoryMichelle Edwards is a fly tyer and former guide who spent years fishing and guiding the South Fork of the Snake. We get into South Fork hatches, guide flies, nymphing from a drift boat, streamer fishing for bigger trout, and the lessons Michelle carried with her from Colorado to Idaho.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/985

#984 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/984Presented by: Drifthook, TroutRoutes, No See Um Lodge, Togiak River LodgeIn this episode, Todd Karnas of Eastern Guides shares what he has learned from more than 15 years of fishing around St. John's and the Avalon Peninsula. We cover Atlantic salmon, small rivers, surface flies, sea-run trout, resident brown trout, capelin, water conditions, and the best time to experience each fishery.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/984

#983 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/983Presented by: Golden Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, On DeMark Lodge, Pescador on the FlyStrike indicator techniques for stillwaters can be one of the most effective ways to control the depth and speed of your flies.In this Littoral Zone episode, Phil Rowley takes us through his indicator system, from choosing the right indicator and building leaders to setting exact depth and casting long rigs. We also get into bobber stops, swivels, depth locators, and the naked technique with long leaders and weighted flies.Phil also answers Brad from Arizona's questions about anchor rope length and shares practical tips for getting your flies to fish at the depth and speed you intended.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/983

#982 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/982Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Gallatin River Lodge, Fly Fish with Me Utah, Sullivan Fly RodsIn this episode, Dave talks with Sascha Clark Danylchuk, executive director of Keep Fish Wet and a fisheries scientist, about simple ways anglers can improve the outcome for every fish they release. Catch-and-release is more than getting a fish back into the water. How long a fish stays out of the water, what it touches, how long it is handled, and the water temperature can all affect what happens after release.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/982

#981 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/981Presented By: TroutRoutesIn this episode, Dave talks with Tim Cammisa of Trout and Feather about exploring new trout water with a better plan. Tim explains how he uses TroutRoutes, access maps, USGS streamflow data, local information, and backup locations before leaving home. The planning does not end when Tim reaches the river. He confirms access, checks water temperature, watches for insects and rising fish, and studies the dominant water type before choosing a fly. Dave and Tim also discuss river-reading, technology, social media, and protective trout water.#981 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/981

#980 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/980Presented by: On DeMark Lodge, Golden Fly Shop, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Jackson Hole Fly Company On a fall weekend in South Bend, Indiana, you can hear the Notre Dame marching band from the river while swinging a fly for steelhead.Tim Scott has spent more than 30 years fishing these waters where steelhead, St. Joe smallmouth, and streamer fishing are all part of the experience. He is also the co-founder of Tie-A-Thon, which started with a goal of a couple thousand flies and has now passed 500,000, supporting groups that use fly fishing for education, therapy, veterans, and kids.We also dig into Tim's steelhead setup, his sink-tip system, and a Clouser-style minnow inspired by the work of Fox Statler and Kevin Feenstra.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/980

#979 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/979Presented by: Blue Bonefish LodgeIn this episode, Chris Leeman of Blue Bonefish Lodge explains how Sargasso has changed fishing Belize around Ambergris Caye. He also breaks down seasonal opportunities for tarpon and bonefish, why full moons can produce excellent fishing, and why July may be one of Belize's most overlooked months.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/979

#978 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/978Presented by: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, TroutRoutes, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton TerritorySponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Marlon Prince gives us a guide's view of New Brunswick, including the famous Miramichi River and a long list of fisheries that don't always get the same attention. We dig into when to come, what to bring, how the spring salmon fishery works, and why New Brunswick has become much more than a place anglers drive through on their way somewhere else.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/978

Show Notes: http://wetflyswing.com/977Sponsors: http://wetflyswing.com/SponsorsIn this episode, we're digging back into a conversation with Ed Engle, one of the longtime voices in fishing and tying small flies. Ed has spent decades fishing technical trout water, and his approach is less about making things complicated and more about getting the fundamentals right.We're pulling out 14 of Ed's best tips for fishing small flies, including why size comes before color, how close you should get to feeding trout, and why a longer leader isn't always the answer.You'll also hear how Ed reads a trout's position in the water before making a cast, why he wants an unweighted nymph somewhere in his rig, and how he uses movement when fishing small BWO nymphs.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why you shouldn't fish a smaller fly than the trout requireWhy simple patterns can be so effective in tiny sizesWhy Ed often sticks with a 9- to 10-foot leader instead of going extra longHow to adjust your hook set when presenting a dry fly downstreamHow Ed swings small wet flies to rising troutWhy BWO nymphs don't always need to be dead-driftedHow a weighted fly can help an unweighted nymph move naturallyWhat a trout's vertical position tells you about whether it's actively feedingWhy actually seeing your tiny dry fly mattersHow to make your fly the first thing a trout seesWhy slack-line casts become so important on technical waterHow the way a trout rises to your fly can tell you whether your presentation is rightWhy Ed wants to get as close to a trout as possible without changing its behaviorWhy matching the size of the natural is Ed's #1 priorityEd's approach comes back to simplicity. When you find the natural insect, start by figuring out its size. Get that right first. If your fly also comes close in color and silhouette, even better but size is where Ed starts.We'll also hear why Ed believes small-fly fishing is ultimately about having as little as possible between you and the fish.If you fish midges, BWOs, tricos, technical tailwaters, or selective rising trout, this episode gives you 14 ideas you can take straight to the water.

#976 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/976 Presented by: Fly Fish with me Utah, FishHound Expeditions, Drifthook Fly FishingSponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Kara Knight is a steelhead angler, casting instructor, longtime lodge professional, and competitive caster based in British Columbia. We get into the Dean, Spey-O-Rama, steelhead conservation, casting practice, competition gear, and the lessons Kara has picked up from years spent around some of BC's great steelhead rivers.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/976

975 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/975Presented by: Gallatin River LodgeAsk ten Montana anglers where to fish, and you'll probably hear ten different answers. Every now and then, someone points you toward a stretch that still feels a little overlooked. Today, we're heading into southwest Montana for some Gallatin River fly fishing with someone who has called Bozeman home for more than 30 years.Ryan Kirt has lived in Bozeman for 32 years and has been connected with Gallatin River Lodge for more than a decade. He shares what makes the Gallatin different, from private-access fishing and wade fishing to late-summer terrestrials, streamers, and nymphs.We also cover the best rods and flies for the Gallatin, how to build a three-day Montana fishing trip, and what makes Gallatin River Lodge a special base for exploring Southwest Montana.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/975

#974 Show Notes https://www.wetflyswing.com/974Presented by: Drifthook, AVC Rig, Redd's Flies, Golden Fly ShopIn this episode, Chris takes us from that first Alaska salmon encounter to some of the biggest conservation efforts Trout Unlimited has worked on, including the Roadless Rule, Bristol Bay, the Klamath, Yankee Fork restoration, and Apache trout recovery. More than anything, the conservation shows why Trout Unlimited believes anglers can make a real difference when they speak up, stay involved, and protect the waters they care about.Show Notes https://www.wetflyswing.com/974

#973 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/973Presented by: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsorsJerry Darkes has spent decades chasing lake trout across the Great Lakes as a manufacturer's rep, guide, instructor, travel host, and author. He shares his experience finding lake trout in shallow and deep water and tracking their seasonal movements.We cover the history and recovery of lake trout in the Great Lakes, the evolution of fly lines and patterns, boat and shoreline strategies, retrieves, hook sets, and what it takes to land a 10- to 20-pound lake trout on the fly.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/973

#972 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/intrepidPresented by: Intrepid Camp GearIn this episode, McCormick Snow takes us behind the scenes of outdoor gear design and shares how his background in product development has changed the way he thinks about the equipment we bring to the outdoors. McCormick studied Outdoor Product Design and Development at Utah State University before joining Intrepid Camp Gear and moving to Colorado. Fly fishing became an obsession along the way, giving him another way to connect to his career with the outdoors.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/intrepid

#971 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/971Presented by: PatagoniaSponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Rachel Finn has spent decades guiding anglers on New York's famous Ausable River while building a career as an artist and conservation advocate. Our conversation covers everything from climate challenges facing trout streams to travel, art, saltwater adventures, and why curiosity never stops making us better anglers.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/971

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/970Sponsors: Redd's Flies, Fly Fish with Me Utah, Golden Fly Shop, Gallatin River LodgeToday we're bringing back one of the most-listened-to conversations in the Wet Fly Swing archive with Craig Mathews, a lifelong angler, author, conservationist, and founder of Blue Ribbon Flies. Craig has spent nearly seven decades fly fishing, and in this Re-Release episode from 2023, we cover everything from Yellowstone caddis hatches and trout fishing to conservation, fly tying, and some unforgettable stories from his years in West Yellowstone.Craig takes us back to his early days in Michigan and the move that eventually landed him in Montana. What was supposed to be a one-year adventure turned into a new life when Craig became the police chief of West Yellowstone. A few years later, while making $9,000 a year as police chief, he started a wholesale fly-tying operation that employed people with disabilities. That business became Blue Ribbon Flies in 1979 and eventually grew to four fly shops.Blue Ribbon Flies became a gathering place for anglers, fly tiers, writers, and some of the biggest personalities in fly fishing. Craig shares stories about Jack Gartside, Gary LaFontaine, and the constant flow of people through the shop. He remembers Gary as someone who could walk into a fly shop and immediately get everyone fired up about fishing, insects, and fly patterns.Conservation is another major part of Craig's story. He talks about his longtime friendship with Yvon Chouinard and how their shared commitment to giving back helped launch 1% for the Planet. Craig explains how businesses can support approved conservation organizations and shares examples of projects that have protected habitat and public access around the Madison River and Montana.Then we get into one of Craig's specialties: caddis and fishing caddis.Craig breaks down several important Yellowstone-area caddis hatches and explains how anglers can better identify what trout are actually eating. His biggest lesson is simple: slow down and watch the river. Instead of immediately stepping into the water and casting, spend a few minutes observing rise forms, insect activity, and what's moving through the water.Craig also explains why fly pattern is often blamed when presentation is the real problem. Getting closer to the fish, choosing the right tippet, controlling drag, and making accurate casts can matter far more than constantly changing flies.We also cover the X-Caddis, Iris Caddis, spent caddis patterns, pheasant tail flies, and why Craig uses pheasant tail for much more than nymphs.Finally, Craig takes us into the wilder side of old West Yellowstone, sharing stories from his police chief days involving motorcycle gangs, organized crime, and the relationships he built with people passing through town. Decades later, one of those former encounters even turned into a day of fishing together.This episode is part fly-fishing lesson, part Yellowstone history, and part reminder of how much can happen when you spend a lifetime paying attention to rivers, insects, conservation, and people.

969 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/969Presented by: PatagoniaToday's guest has spent years guiding trout anglers in Colorado, but these days he's measuring success by something bigger than just the fish that make it to the net.Austin Campbell is a Colorado fly fishing guide, Patagonia ambassador, and founder and executive director of Community Fly Fishing. He shares his approach to the South Platte, fishing the Deckers section, finding trout on dry flies, and knowing when to leave the bobber behind.We cover George Daniel and the Penn State fly fishing program, warm-water challenges during a tough Colorado season, and how Community Fly Fishing is creating zero-barrier opportunities in Colorado, Chicago, Atlanta, the Bahamas, and Belize.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/969

#968 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/968Presented by: Stonefly Nets, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Togiak River Lodge, TroutRoutesSponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Pat Ehlers has been fly fishing since he was a kid exploring trout streams in Wisconsin's Upper Peninsula. Over the years, his curiosity expanded far beyond trout, leading him to become one of the leading voices in warmwater fly fishing and innovative fly design.We dug into bass behavior, fly line selection, fly tying materials, electronics, and how lessons from conventional bass fishing continue to improve fly fishing techniques.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/968

967 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/967Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit IdahoThe greatest fly patterns don't just catch fish, they stand the test of time and become part of fly fishing history.Fly tyer and author Al Ritt shares the stories behind his book, 25 Best Most Versatile Flies, and some of the most useful patterns in fly fishing. We explore classics including the Adams, Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Royal Wulff, and Clouser Minnow.We explore Al's long history in fly tying, the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo, his own fly patterns, and his approach to teaching beginners and learning the techniques behind fly tying.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/967

#966 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/966Presented by: TroutRoutes, FishHound Expeditions, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Jackson Hole Fly Company.In this episode, we speak with longtime fly-fishing author Skip Morris about his latest published book, Imposters, and a collection of essays that brings together fly patterns, fishing history, personal stories, and artwork by his wife, Carol Ann Morris. Skip also shares practical lessons from decades on the water, including his “turn-down trick” for presenting a fly to rising trout, why action and size can matter more than constantly changing patterns, and how classic dry flies and wet flies still have a place in today's fly box.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/966

http://wetflyswing.com/965Sponsors: Sullivan Fly Rods, On DeMark Lodge, Redds FliesDave shares the story of his father, Doug Stewart, who recently passed away at 87. Doug was the person who introduced Dave to fly fishing, and his influence eventually helped lead to the creation of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast.Doug's own fly fishing story reaches back more than 70 years.He first started fishing the Deschutes River with his father in the early 1950s, when seeing a dozen anglers on the river could make it feel crowded. He eventually became a longtime Deschutes guide, fly shop owner, fly tyer, rod builder, writer, and teacher who introduced countless people to fly fishing.Doug was also the creator of the Max Canyon steelhead fly. He tells the story of sitting under the trees with Steve Dorn during a brutally hot day on the Deschutes. With fishing slowed down, they started tying flies to pass the time. Doug liked orange and black, put the colors together, and eventually refined the pattern that became the Max Canyon.We also hear about the early days of Stewart's Custom Tackle, which later became Stewart's Fly Shop. Doug talks about building the business through word of mouth, teaching casting and fly tying, and watching A River Runs Through It bring a surge of new anglers into fly fishing.But this episode goes well beyond the history of a fly shop or a famous steelhead pattern.Doug shares stories from decades on the water, including hooking and releasing 58 steelhead with Jim Teeny during an incredible day of fishing, falling into the Deschutes while fighting a steelhead, encounters with bears in Alaska, and watching the fly fishing world change around him.Teaching runs through much of Doug's story. Before going full-time in fly fishing, he was a seventh and eighth grade teacher. He later brought that same mindset to the fly shop, guiding, casting lessons, fly tying classes, and the many anglers he helped along the way.Dave also reflects on what that influence looks like today. Doug taught him to fish. Dave passed some of those lessons to friends, who then taught their own kids. That ripple effect may be one of Doug's greatest legacies.Near the end of their original conversation, Doug is asked what he would like to be remembered for. His answer comes back to the people: running the fly shop, teaching people to cast and tie flies, learning from others, and staying connected to the fly fishing community.This episode is ultimately about more than fly fishing.It's about fathers, sons, teachers, friends, and the limited amount of time we get together.If your dad, father figure, mentor, or fishing partner is still around, give them a call. And if you still have the chance to take another fishing trip together, don't wait too long to make it happen.

#964 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/964Presented by: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, AVC Rig, Fishhound ExpeditionsSponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Paul Plum entered our Scott Lake Lodge giveaway without expecting much to happen. A few weeks later, he got the call that changed his summer. Together, we traveled deep into northern Saskatchewan, where world-class fishing, incredible hospitality, and untouched wilderness created an experience neither of us will forget.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/964

963 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/963Presented by: Moccasin Fly ClubBig predator flies are built for explosive strikes, brutal fights, and anglers who live for the hunt.From striped bass on Long Island to peacock bass in the Amazon, Max Rivetta has spent years tying flies for predator fish. As the in-house fly tyer and host of Moccasin Fly Club, he shares the techniques, materials, and lessons he's learned along the way.We cover Bob Popovics' influence on modern fly design, choosing high-quality bucktail, preparing for destination trips, and why connecting with other fly tyers is one of the fastest ways to improve your skills.Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/963

962 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/962Presented By: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Togiak River Lodge, Drifthook, Blue Bonefish LodgeFly fishing has always been about more than catching fish; it's about building connections, sharing experiences, and protecting the waters that bring people together. In this episode, host Dave Stewart sits down with Kyle Schaefer, founder of Soulfly Co Outfitters, to discuss how his company is bringing those values to life through music, fly fishing, and conservation. Together, they explore how Soulfly Co. is creating a welcoming community that inspires both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/962

We're officially past the halfway point of 2026, and it's been one of the biggest years yet for the Wet Fly Swing Podcast. We've expanded to four full-length interviews every week, added new shows from some of the biggest names in fly fishing, traveled to incredible destinations, and continued growing the Wet Fly Swing Pro community.One question we get all the time is, "What episodes should I start with?"To answer that, we pulled together the 10 most-listened-to episodes of the year so far. Whether you're interested in casting, dry-dropper fishing, Euro nymphing, steelhead, fly rod design, or planning your next destination trip, this list is a great place to dive in.The Top 10 Episodes of 2026:10. Jason Randall – Dry Dropper Fishing Beyond the Basics (Episode 928)Jason Randall breaks down the divot, pivot, and twist system while sharing practical ways to improve your dry-dropper fishing beyond the basics.9. John Hazel – Origins of Spey Casting & the Deschutes River (Episode 934)A fascinating conversation with one of the pioneers of Spey fishing on the Deschutes River, covering the history of steelhead fishing and how the sport evolved.8. Paul Arden – Why Anglers Stop Improving (Episode 939)Sexyloops founder Paul Arden shares fly casting insights, explains common mistakes, and discusses why many anglers eventually plateau.7. Jeff Liskay – The Steelhead Swing System (Episode 898)A special presentation recorded during one of our fly fishing boot camps that gives listeners a taste of a Wet Fly Swing masterclass.6. Larry Kenney – Inside Scott Fly Rods (Episode 906)Scott Fly Rods founder Larry Kenney shares the company's history, innovations, and what makes Scott rods unique.5. Connor Quigley – Inside Thomas & Thomas (Episode 948)Connor Quigley discusses fly rod design, innovation, and the development of travel-friendly six-piece Spey rods.4. Ed Jaworowski – The Science of a Perfect Fly Cast (Episode 897)One of fly fishing's legendary casting instructors returns to explain the principles behind a better, more efficient cast.3. Devin Olsen & Jack Arnett – Competitive Dry Fly Fishing (Episode 922)Members of Team USA discuss competitive dry fly fishing and how they prepare for international competition.2. Jordan Larson – From Filmmaker to Togiak River Lodge Owner (Episode 947)Jordan shares the unexpected journey that took him from filmmaking into owning one of Alaska's premier fly fishing lodges.1. Mark Melnyk – Giant Northern Pike at Scott Lake Lodge (Episode 946)Our most popular episode of the year features Mark Melnyk of The New Fly Fisher discussing giant northern pike, lake trout, and the incredible fisheries of northern Saskatchewan. It became even more meaningful after our own trip to Scott Lake Lodge confirmed just how special the destination really is.Looking AheadThe second half of the year is shaping up to be just as exciting. We're planning new schools, destination trips to places like Belize and Iceland, more YouTube content, and continued growth inside the Wet Fly Swing Pro community. We'll also continue bringing on some of the best guides, anglers, and innovators in fly fishing to help you become a better angler.If you're looking for your next episode, start with this Top 10 list. These conversations resonated with thousands of anglers this year, and there's a good chance you'll find a few new favorites of your own.

960 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/960Presented by: AVC Rig, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Togiak River Lodge,Blue Bonefish LodgeExperience doesn't end the learning; it just changes the questions you ask on the water. Today I'm joined by Jim Sens of Deadman's Guide Service to talk about why swinging flies for trout and summer steelhead has become one of his favorite ways to catch fish.Jim spends much of his season guiding anglers on Oregon's McKenzie and Willamette rivers, where he blends summer steelhead, trout, Spey casting, dry flies, nymphing, and wet flies into one complete day on the water.We also get into fishing summer steelhead from a drift boat, the trout flies that are always in Jim's box, and how he fishes seams and tailouts throughout the season.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/960

#959 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/959Presented by: Golden Fly ShopColorado offers far more than famous trout rivers. Michael Tolerton from Golden Fly Shop shares why the Front Range gives anglers access to an incredible range of fisheries within a short drive, along with tips on how changing water conditions can actually create new opportunities.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/959

#958 Show notes: https://wetflyswing.co/958Presented By: Golden Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, Fly Fish With Me Utah, Yellowstone Teton Territory – Visit IdahoIn this episode of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast, Rick Mikesell shares why Denver's South Platte has become a destination for fly anglers looking to challenge themselves with one of the smartest fish in freshwater. He explains how carp fishing improves your casting and presentation, how it closely resembles saltwater flats fishing, and what it takes to fool these powerful fish consistently.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/958

957 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/957Presented By: Stone Fly Nets, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Togiak River Lodge, Golden Fly ShopIn this episode of In the Bucket, Brian Niska welcomes Dec Hogan, Jonathan Farmer, and Marty Howard for a thoughtful discussion about steelhead fly fishing and the values that keep the sport alive. Their conversation goes beyond flies and techniques, exploring how mentorship, craftsmanship, books, conservation, and community continue to shape fishing culture today.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/957

#956 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/956Presented by: Mountain Waters Resort Stephen Brunt shares how a magazine assignment turned into a lifelong connection with Newfoundland. Along the way, we cover Atlantic salmon tactics, the legacy of Lee Wulff, the unique culture surrounding these rivers, and why this part of Canada has become one of his favorite places on earth.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/956

#953 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/955Presented by: Drifthook, Golden Fly Shop, TroutRoutes, Montana Fly Fishing LodgeFew people have moved between the worlds of literature, fly fishing, film, and Western culture with a front-row seat to all of them.In this episode, Dave sits down with Tom McGuane to talk about a lifetime of chasing fish, telling stories, and following his curiosity wherever it led. From tarpon in the Florida Keys to decades spent fishing the Dean River, Tom shares the experiences that shaped both his writing and his life.We covered steelhead, Atlantic salmon, Spey casting, literature, Hollywood, Jimmy Buffett, Jeff Bridges, and what it feels like to keep chasing fish after decades on the water. If you've ever wondered what a lifetime devoted to fly fishing looks like, this episode is a master class.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/955

#954 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/954Presented By: Blue Bonefish Lodge, Pescador on the FlyFor many fly anglers, a trip to Belize means one thing—finally experiencing the thrill of chasing Bonefish across crystal-clear flats. But once you're standing on the bow of a skiff, you'll quickly realize that Bonefish are only part of the story.In this episode of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast, Chris shares what it was like to fish the Belize flats for the first time. From landing his first Bonefish to taking shots at Tarpon and Permit, the trip became an unforgettable introduction to the world of saltwater fly fishing.954 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/954

#953 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/953Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, Fly Fish with me Utah, Togiak River Lodge, FishHound ExpeditionsA good fish finder won't catch trout for you, but it will help you understand the underwater world in ways that simply weren't possible a few years ago. In this episode, Wade Van Pelt and Phil Rowley dig into fish finder mounts, portable sonar systems, and how today's technology makes it easier than ever to use your electronics no matter what watercraft you fish from.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/953

#952 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/952 Presented by: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Jackson Hole Fly Company, On DeMark LodgeSponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors Will Godfrey has lived through nearly every major era of modern fly fishing. Along the way he built successful fly shops, guided legendary outdoor writers, traveled the world chasing trout and steelhead, and helped promote catch-and-release long before it became standard practice. This conversation is packed with stories that connect today's anglers to the people and places that built our sport.Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/952

#951 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/951 Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, AVC Rig, Patagonia Fly fishing in Texas offers anglers much more than bass and trout. In this episode, Mitch Kemp shares why rivers like the Brazos, Devils, and Pecos have become must-visit destinations for anglers looking to target carp, gar, and other warmwater species. Along the way, Mitch talks about building Fatty's on the Fly, planning overnight river trips, and the small adjustments that lead to more success on the water. Whether you're new to fly fishing in Texas or planning your next adventure, this episode is full of practical tips and memorable stories. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/951

#950B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/950B Presented by: FishHound Expeditions Nate Cathcart leads research focused on Pacific lamprey across Alaska, working with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and partners to map habitat, understand migration patterns, and fill major knowledge gaps about this ancient fish. We also talk about how local communities, conservation groups, and anglers are helping collect data that could shape future management efforts. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/950B

950 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/950 Presented by: Fly Fish with me Utah, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho Lake fly fishing is a different game. Finding trout in a river is one thing, but finding them in a thousand acres of open water is a whole different game. Cody Burgdorff and Devin Olsen of Team USA joined the show to talk about lake fly fishing, one of the most important and most misunderstood parts of competitive fly fishing. They broke down how they approach a brand new lake, how they work through the water column from shallow to deep, and how they systematically find trout when they have zero information to start with. They also got into the gear, lines, and leader setups they lean on most when the competition is on the line. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/950

949 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/949 Presented by: TroutRoutes, Golden Fly Shop, Toyota Prairies, Toyota Pacific Some of the biggest changes in life don't come with a plan. They happen after an injury, a setback, or a moment that forces you to look for a new purpose. In this episode, we're joined by Dana Lattery of Fly Fishing Bow River Outfitters, who shares how leaving professional hockey eventually led him to one of North America's great trout rivers. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/949

948 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/948 Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Golden Fly Shop, Fly Fish with me Utah, TroutRoutes In this episode, Connor shares the history of Thomas & Thomas, explains what gives a fly rod its "soul," and offers practical tips for choosing the right rod for trout, stripers, Atlantic salmon, pike, and more. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/948

#947B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/947b Presented by: Togiak River Lodge Jordan Larsen joins us to share the behind-the-scenes story of Togiak River Lodge, one of the most remote fishing destinations in Bristol Bay. We talk about Chinook fishing, spey programs, conservation, mentorship, filmmaking, and the unlikely road that led Jordan and his brother Zack to ownership during one of the most uncertain periods in modern history. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/947b

947 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/947 Presented by: TroutRoutes, Gallatin River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Toyota Prairies, Toyota Pacific You can learn a lot about a person by looking in their cooler at the end of a fishing trip. In this episode, we're digging into Cast and Iron Camp Cooking and British Columbia Fly Fishing with Teddy Cosco. Teddy is a steelhead angler, university professor, camp cook, and someone who has spent years exploring rivers across British Columbia, the Yukon, and beyond. We get into steelhead fishing, Spey casting, camp cooking, and why some of the best memories from a trip happen back at camp after the rods are put away. Teddy shares his system for preparing meals before a trip, cooking over the fire, and making life on the river a whole lot easier. If you love steelhead, good food, and the stories that come from time spent outdoors, you're going to enjoy this one. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/947

#946 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/946 Presented By: TroutRoutes, AVC Rig, Jackson Hole Fly Company Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Paul Arden, founder of Sexyloops and one of the most respected fly casting instructors in the world, returns to the podcast to share lessons from more than three decades of teaching anglers how to cast more efficiently. From beginners learning loop control to experienced anglers searching for more distance and accuracy, Paul breaks down the fundamentals that separate average casters from great ones. The conversation covers fly casting plateaus, loop control, back-cast awareness, the 170 cast, double-haul mechanics, fly line selection, and common misconceptions that hold anglers back. Paul also shares practical drills, coaching insights, and why understanding what happens behind you may be the fastest path to improving what happens in front of you. #946 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/946

#945 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/945 Presented By: AVC Rig, TroutRoutes, Jackson Hole Fly Company Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Drew Evans of House of Fly returns to the podcast to share why carp may be one of the most underrated gamefish in fly fishing—and why they offer some of the best preparation for chasing bonefish, redfish, and other saltwater species. Drawing from years of experience fishing Idaho's rivers and traveling to the flats, Drew explains how sight fishing for carp builds the casting, presentation, and fish-spotting skills that translate almost anywhere in the world. The conversation also explores choosing the right fly line, matching rods to your casting style, improving the double haul, and planning bucket-list steelhead trips into Idaho's remote Sheep Ranch. Along the way, Drew shares practical tips for reading carp behavior, building confidence on the flats, and discovering new fisheries when trout season slows down. #945 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/945