Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

#867 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/867 Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  This episode of Traveled comes straight from the floor of the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo, where anglers gathered to share patterns, techniques, and the kind of conversations that only happen when tiers and fishermen slow down and talk shop. Scott Sanchez joins us to break down one of the most important — and misunderstood — feeding windows in fly fishing: the emerger stage. We dig into how trout feed in the surface film, how to read rise forms correctly, and why classic wet flies and soft hackles remain so effective when fish aren't fully committing to dries. It's a thoughtful, observation-driven discussion inspired by time spent at the vise and on the water, and a reminder that good fishing starts with paying attention. #867 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/867

863 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/866 Presented by:   Togiak River Lodge Today's story bridges two very different worlds: the tight banks and icy tributaries of the Great Lakes, and the raw, tidal power of Western Alaska. Bailey Adamavich learned to fish where forty-foot casts matter and low water forces precision, then carried that foundation straight into blown-out rivers, chrome-bright kings, and some of the most intense Chinook grabs you can imagine. Bailey was our guide on the Togiak River, and we talked through one of my best days ever swinging for king salmon. We also dig into how Great Lakes tactics translate to Alaska, why simple flies still win, and what it really feels like to guide a full Alaskan season. If you're curious about Chinook on the swing, Midwest steelhead and browns, or the leap from small water to truly big rivers, this one's for you. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/866  

#865b Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/865b      Presented by: Fish The Fly Jason Balogh is back from Fish the Fly Guide Service to recap his season around Jackson Hole and break down how he introduces new anglers to fly fishing. We cover beginner-friendly gear, dry dropper setups, casting basics, and how to read water on big Western rivers like the Snake. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/865b  

Show Notes: Https://wetfyswing.com/865 Sponsors: Togiak River Lodge, Smitty's Fly Box, and Jackson Hole Fly Company. Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Last month on the Madison, I watched a perfect example of why Trout Spey exists. Wind ripping. Skinny water. A high bank behind us. Indicator rigs are getting ripped out of the drift the second they touch down. One angler finally stepped out of the rut, grabbed an 11-foot two-hander, and swung flies through water that had shut everyone else down. He wasn't being heroic. He was listening to what the river was asking for. That moment frames this episode with Nick Conklin. We dig into Trout Spey setup, casting fundamentals, and why indicator fishing, high sticking, and swinging are all equal tools. The difference is knowing when to use each and being willing to adapt when conditions get ugly.

#864 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/864 Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing, San Juan Rodworks, On DeMark Lodge, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Stillwater trout don't always eat because they're hungry — and that's where many anglers get stuck. In this solo episode of the Littoral Zone Podcast, Phil Rowley breaks down the power of attraction and explains why trout often strike flies for reasons that have nothing to do with feeding. When matching the hatch fails, attractor patterns can trigger responses rooted in curiosity, aggression, and territorial instinct. Drawing from decades of stillwater experience, Phil explores when and why attractor flies work, how to fish them responsibly, and which patterns consistently provoke strikes from otherwise inactive trout. From blobs and boobies to FABs, worms, and exaggerated chironomids, this episode reframes how anglers should think about fly choice, presentation, and trout behavior in lakes. #864 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/864

863 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/863 Presented by:  Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho    If you're trying to figure out where you can find giant stoneflies in July, chase technical midge eaters in March, and explore private spring creeks, all while staying in a five-star lodge that's not priced like Jackson Hole, this episode shows you exactly where that place exists. Today we're heading into Swan Valley, right in the heart of one of the most epic fishing zones in the West, with John and Liz Douville, owners of River Retreat Lodge. We dig into how they ended up buying a lodge in the middle of COVID, why March might actually be one of the best fishing months of the year, and how this area quietly sits at the crossroads of the South Fork, spring creeks, big wildlife, and wide-open country.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/863

Show Notes: Https://wetfyswing.com/862 Sponsors: TroutRoutes, Fish The Fly, and Smitty's Fly Box. Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors There's a certain kind of fly fishing knowledge you don't get from a quick scroll or a gear review. You get it from someone who's been there when the "new" stuff was being invented, watched it cycle back around, and saved the paper trail along the way. That's what this conversation with Jim Adams felt like: a walk through the hidden world of fly-fishing collectibles, rare books, and the history behind the gear we all obsess over. Jim's story starts way back in 1943, tying his first fly at nine years old, and stretches through Florida Keys tarpon on bamboo, world travel, Alaska salmon research, and a lifetime of collecting and selling some of the rarest angling books and tackle out there. If you've ever wondered what makes a bamboo rod truly collectible, why some reels hit five figures, or how fly fishing keeps reinventing itself, this one's for you.

#861 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/861 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge Grant Woolridge carries one of the most influential river-boating legacies in the West. As the great-grandson of Glen Woolridge, Grant grew up around the Rogue River and the early innovations that made modern jet boating possible. In this episode, he shares stories passed down through generations—stories that shaped how anglers and boaters access wild rivers today. We dig into early wooden boats, the evolution of jet technology, and why Wooldridge Boats continues to balance innovation with durability and safety. From historic runs through Blossom Bar to modern materials testing, this conversation is about respecting river history while building boats for the future.  #861 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/861

860 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/860 Presented by:  Intrepid Camp Gear, Togiak River Lodge, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Patagonia   Today, I sat down with Marcus Bohlin of Nam Products to talk through the things Scandinavian anglers think about differently. Rod length. True line weight. Leader diameter. Presentation. We get into why a 14-foot 7-weight can actually feel easier to fish on rivers like the Deschutes, how Baltic salmon behave compared to Atlantic salmon and steelhead, and why Sweden keeps coming up as a place more anglers should be paying attention to. We also dig into Nám's leaders, why six-piece two-hand rods make more sense than most people expect, and how line choice matters less in some situations and more in others. This one reshaped how I think about modern spey gear and where it really comes from.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/860

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/859 Presented By: Mountain Waters Resort, San Juan Rodworks, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge Tellis Katsogiannos has spent decades at the highest level of fly casting, earning world champion titles while helping shape how modern anglers think about efficiency, control, and simplicity. In this episode, Tellis shares how competitive casting sharpened his understanding of techniques, and how those lessons translate directly to real fishing situations. We also head to Sweden and Atlantic salmon water, where Scandi systems and Spey-style thinking demand precision over power. From line design at Guideline to teaching anglers how to improve without overthinking, this conversation connects elite casting, salmon culture, and innovation into one clear framework for better fly fishing. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/859

Show Notes: Https://wetfyswing.com/858 Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Fly fishing has a way of pulling you back when you need it most. And for Mike O'Brien, those quiet hours on the water turned into a full-on career shift, from financial services to guiding full-time in Utah. In this episode, we dig into what makes Utah such a sleeper fly fishing destination, why the Provo River is a legit year-round option, and the small tweaks that can turn a slow day into a "how is this even legal" kind of day. We also break down Mike's go-to winter and shoulder-season setup: the bounce rig. If you've ever felt like you're "doing everything right" but the trout still aren't eating, Mike lays out exactly where to look, what to adjust, and how to slow things down enough to get the takes.

#858 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/858        Presented by: Patagonia, Four Wheel Campers, Togiak River Lodge, Drifthook Fly Fishing Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors    Josiah shares how subsistence fishing, military service, and conservation work brought him back home to build Bucks and Bones — a guiding program grounded in Hawaiian tradition, ecological responsibility, and world-class sight-fishing for big Hawaiian bonefish. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/858      

Show Notes: Https://wetfyswing.com/857 Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Most anglers think they know Montana trout fishing until they stumble into the rivers nobody's talking about. No shuttle lines. No shoulder-to-shoulder boats. No mid-summer hoot owl closures shutting things down. Just cold water spilling off nearly 13,000-foot peaks and trout that still behave like trout. That's exactly what we're digging into on this episode of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast. I sat down with Lincoln Power of Montana Fly Fishing Lodge to talk about a pocket of Montana that still fishes like the old days. Freestones, spring creeks, migrating browns and rainbows, and a lodge experience that goes way beyond the water. If you've ever wondered what Montana looked like before the crowds, this one's for you.

856 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/856B Presented by:  Pescador on the Fly A fly rod that disappears in your pack but still fishes like your everyday rod sounds like a stretch. In this episode, we dig into why that idea actually works and why more anglers are turning to six-piece rods for travel, backup, and even daily use. Jeff Ditsworth, founder of Pescador on the Fly, joins the show to break down how he rebuilt his rod lineup from the ground up. We talk about better blanks, tighter tolerances, and a new factory producing six-piece rods that feel just as smooth as a four-piece.  Jeff also shares stories from a recent trip to Austria, chasing wild brown trout in alpine creeks with a local guide who also happens to be the fish police. If you travel with a carry-on, hike into water, or want a backup rod that doesn't feel like a compromise, this episode shows how six-piece fly rods fit into real fishing—from home waters to fly fishing in Austria.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/856B

 #856 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/856 Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Togiak River Lodge, Pescador on the Fly Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Steve Woit has spent years hunting down the stories behind fly-fishing's most influential figures — including Mary Orvis Marbury, whose Victorian-era writing documented flies and tiers before the modern industry existed. In this episode, Steve walks us through the research discipline behind Fly Fishing Treasures, his deep dive into letters, catalogs, photographs, and tackle provenance that reveal how anglers built a culture long before we arrived. This conversation isn't about nostalgia — it's about protecting memory. Steve shows how writing, archiving, and conservation fundraising through donated tackle help safeguard fisheries and preserve the names and innovations that shaped our sport. #856 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/856

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/855B Duane Hada joins Chad Johnson for a thoughtful conversation on what actually creates trophy trout fisheries—and why stocking alone isn't the answer. Duane breaks down the importance of catch-and-release regulations, managing pressure, and letting fish live long enough to reach their full potential. Drawing from rivers like the White River and the San Juan, he explains how conservation-first thinking shapes not only fish size, but the long-term health of entire fisheries. Beyond fishing, Duane opens up about his life as an artist and how creativity, patience, and observation carry over from the studio to the river. He talks about seeing fisheries as living "gardens," the influence of Dave Whitlock on both his conservation mindset and artistic outlook, and why mentorship—on the water and off—matters just as much as catching fish. This episode is about legacy, restraint, and approaching both art and angling with intention. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/855B

#855 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/855      Presented by: San Juan Rodworks, On DeMark Lodge, Four Wheel Campers Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   If you've ever stood knee-deep in a Western river wondering whether a trout spey rod might change your whole approach, this conversation with Howard Cole will get your wheels turning. Howard's spent a lifetime shaping flies, shaping cast loops, and shaping anglers at JD High Country Outfitters — and he brings a river-smart perspective on everything from trout spey dry flies to yellow sally emergers. Trout spey tips show up often in this episode, and they sneak into almost every story he tells from the Snake to the South Fork. By the end of this episode, you'll probably be digging through your fly box looking for your own emerger patterns — or maybe even picking up a short spey rod for the next drift. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/855 

854 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/854 Presented by:  Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Intrepid Camp Gear,  On DeMark Lodge, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Today, we're sitting down with someone who has lived two deep lives, one on the PGA Tour and one on the flats of South Texas. Phil Blackmar spent years competing against the best golfers in the world, studying pressure, tempo, and how to stay calm when everything speeds up. Now he brings that same understanding to fly fishing, especially sight fishing for redfish and trout.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/854  

853 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/853b       Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/smittys  Steve Smith breaks down the fundamentals of top trout flies, fly tying materials, and the patterns that continue to produce everywhere. We also get into how Smitty's Fly Box evolved, how he approaches local hatches, and why mastering proportions might be the most important part of tying a durable fly. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/853b    

#853 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/853 Presented By: TroutRoutes, Smitty's Fly Box, Four Wheel Campers Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors James Garrettson of About Trout takes us deep into the San Juan tailwater—well beyond the Instagram version—to show what really makes this river a world-class streamer fishery. He breaks down how big trout behave in frog water, why depth and stalls matter more than speed, and how his team consistently targets fish over 30 inches. James shares the story behind a true San Juan giant, talks streamer setups, flow windows, guide etiquette, and why he spends every free day exploring the same river he's guided for a decade. If you've ever wondered how to fish deep, slow, technical water for outsized browns, this episode is the blueprint. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/853

851 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/851 Presented by: FishHound Expeditions  For the last ten years, today's guest has been fly fishing the Alaska road system and guiding the south central river, Lower Willow, Upper Willow, the Canyon water, and Montana Creek. He's one of the guides behind our recent Alaskan hosted trip and has a head full of stories that only come from rowing in a place where anything can happen. In this episode, you'll hear what it was like from Will's seat on the sticks during our trip, why the bite shifted every day, how he chooses between bugs, beads, and buggers, and plenty of stories from the river.  Will breaks down how to actively jig, swing, and animate the Duracell and other flies while nymphing, and how they get trout, grayling, and even salmon to eat.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/851  

#850B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/850B Presented By: Intrepid Camp Gear Sloan Hiatt, Manager at Intrepid Camp Gear, breaks down how his team designs rooftop tents and aluminum cargo boxes built for anglers, skiers, and backcountry travelers. He shares why Intrepid manufactures everything themselves instead of white-labeling, how they solved common space and durability problems, and what makes their gear stand out in the overlanding world. We also get the story of Sloan's late-night bear encounter from a rooftop tent, plus a deep dive into his restored Land Cruisers, diesel swaps, and the 4x4 community that keeps these classic rigs alive. Whether you're camping, fishing, or chasing winter road trips, Sloan brings a builder's perspective shaped by miles of real-world use. 850B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/850B

#850 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/850       Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Four Wheel Campers, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   When you spend enough time around steelhead guides, you start to notice something: the truly fishy ones never stop learning. That's exactly the vibe I get every time I'm on the river with Pat Beahen. The guy reads water like it's printed in large font, and he's got this river-smart intensity that makes you believe a fish could grab at any second. This episode pulls together decades of Pat's life chasing steelhead across BC — from Whistler beginnings to long seasons on the Bulkley and the Dean. If you're a Great Lakes angler looking to level up your swung-fly game, this one's packed with insight. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/850         

849 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/849 Presented by:  Jackson Hole Fly Company, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Fish The Fly   Some stories follow you your whole life, and John MacLean grew up inside one of the most meaningful ones ever tied to fly fishing. In this episode, we look past the nostalgia and into the real heart of A River Runs Through It — the family, the grief, the responsibility, and the loss that shaped his father's writing. John is a journalist and author of Home Waters, and the son of Norman MacLean. He's spent decades tracing the real events behind the book and the movie — the slow rise of the original printing, the truth of Paul's murder, the guilt Norman carried, and how writing became the only way to make sense of it all. This episode also follows John's own work, from fire investigations to his next book, marking fifty years of A River Runs Through It. There's a lot here — family history, Montana stories, film moments, and the deeper current that still pulls at John today.      Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/849  

#848 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/848 Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Chris Smith takes us inside the world of Team USA Fly Fishing, breaking down the systems, strategies, and Euro nymphing methods that have elevated American competitive angling over the last decade. From his first accidental competition in 2009 to mentoring youth anglers and preparing for the Idaho World Championships, Chris shares how confidence flies, rod-angle depth control, beat management, and communication across teams fuel the "medal mentality." He explains the difference between French and Spanish presentations, how Team USA refined its intel-sharing model, and why volunteers at Worlds get front-row seats to world-class fishing. Whether you're learning Euro nymphing for trout or want to understand how top anglers think under pressure, this is a rare look behind the curtain of elite competition. #848 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/848

Show Notes: Https://wetfyswing.com/847B Presented By: Mountain Waters Resort. Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Atlantic Canada is home to some of the most storied salmon rivers in the world—and to one of the quiet powerhouses working behind the scenes to protect them. In this episode of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast, host Dave talks with Charline McCoy, executive director of the Foundation for Conservation of Atlantic Salmon (FCAS), about how a tiny team is helping safeguard Canada's wild Atlantic salmon across five provinces. From replacing culverts and removing old dams to planting riparian trees and funding climate-focused research, Charline walks us through how FCAS has supported hundreds of conservation projects—and helped open up nearly 199 million square meters of salmon habitat. You'll also hear how warming rivers, shifting flows, and invasive species are changing the game for salmon, and why collaboration between governments, scientists, anglers, and local watershed groups has never been more important.

#847 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/847        Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Mountain Waters Resort, Togiak River Lodge, Smitty's Fly Box Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   Marc Bale spent more than thirty years inside one of fly fishing's most influential companies. In this episode, he walks us through Far Bank history, the early Sage days, the rise of Rio, the Redington years, and the philosophies that kept everything from collapsing under its own growth. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/847         

846 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/846 Presented by:  Patagonia If you've ever stood in a cold river and trusted your waders with your whole day, you know how much depends on them. This week, we unpack the story behind the Patagonia Swiftcurrent Waders, how they're built, why they matter, and what Patagonia is doing to make them better for both anglers and the planet. Kate Hadeka and Nick Blixt join us to talk about how these waders are built, why they last, and what Patagonia is doing to make gear that's easier to repair, better for the planet, and still made for hard days on the water. We dig into the shift away from forever chemicals, how repairable panels actually work, and why durability is one of the biggest wins for conservation. If you're curious what makes these waders different or where Patagonia is headed next, this conversation has plenty to chew on.     Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/846

#845 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/845 Presented By: TroutRoutes, FishHound Expeditions, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Lance Gray gives us a full guide-level breakdown of Northern California — from the Feather River steelhead runs to the stillwaters that shaped generations of Chico anglers. He talks about reading Davis and Almanor, when stillwaters light up, and why steelhead require technical knots, clean leaders, and perfect presentations. Lance also brings us into the heart of the Chico fly-fishing community, where teaching, mentorship, and his Guide School continue to shape new anglers. It's part NorCal fishing tour, part education deep-dive, and part love letter to the waters that raised him. #845 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/845

#844 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/844       Presented by: Intrepid Camp Gear, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  We sit down with Nick Chambers of The Conservation Angler to talk about the current state of wild steelhead. Nick has spent more than 20 years studying these fish in their home waters, from the Skagit River in Washington to the spring-fed systems of southern Oregon. He has snorkeled over reds, gathered juvenile dispersal data, and followed steelhead migrations across entire watersheds. We dig into what the latest research is showing, why some rivers continue to support strong wild fish while others decline, and how early life history plays a major role in long-term survival. Nick also shares the surprising connection between steelhead and Atlantic salmon, and what it means for future management and conservation efforts. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/844        

843 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/843 Presented by: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors When Kelly Galloup shows up, you know it's about to get good. In this episode, Chad sits down with one of the most influential voices in modern streamer fishing for a deep dive into Best Streamer Strategies for Giant Trout, wild eats, and the stories that shaped today's big-fly game.  If you've ever thrown a streamer and wondered how the masters make it look easy, this conversation is your front-row seat.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/843

Show Notes:https://wetflyswing.com/842 Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Intrepid Camp Gear, Mountain Waters Resort. Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors If you've been dreaming about Deschutes fly fishing with less pressure and more solitude, today's episode is your roadmap. We sit down with Warm Springs tribal member and guide Randy Nathan, owner of the Eagle Crossing Restaurant at the Deschutes River crossing, to talk about what it really takes to fish the reservation side: permits, timing, access, and the flies that consistently get eats. From steelhead season strategies to the famed salmonfly hatch, Randy shows why this river is one of the best classrooms in the world for anglers of every level. You'll hear how Randy learned from pioneering Warm Springs guide Al Bagley, why he launched Native Adventures, and how he's teaching the next generation to do it right. We also cover rebounding steelhead numbers, how the Pelton dam "mixing" changed bugs and temps, and Randy's favorite trout and steelhead patterns (including his secret "Tiger Chubby"). If Deschutes River trout fishing or winter steelhead on the swing is on your list, this one's for you.

#841 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/841      Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  In this episode, we sit down with Joe Clark of Trout Yeah Guide Service to talk about his trout bum life. Joe has guided everywhere from Steelhead Alley to Pennsylvania spring creeks, and he's also coached Team USA Youth to three straight World Championship titles. We dig into what it means to read new water with confidence, how to use drift angles instead of heavier flies, and why sensitivity and feel often matter more than the gear you're holding. Joe also shares stories from Idaho, Montana, and the Kootenays, along with his own experiences living the trout bum lifestyle one creek and one van trip at a time. If you're interested in becoming a more thoughtful angler and slowing down enough to see what the river is telling you, this episode has a lot to offer. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/841     

840 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/840 Presented by:   Togiak River Lodge There's nothing quite like chasing Alaska Chinook on the Swing. Imagine standing knee-deep in the Togiak, that wild pulse of Alaska running through your boots. The river's quiet and still... until a chrome-bright Chinook melts your 30-pound tippet like butter. Larry Richmann says it best: "All it takes is one swing." Our guest today, Larry Richmann, is a Michigan-born guide who splits his year between swinging flies for kings in Alaska and chasing steelhead on the Saint Joe. In this episode, he shares how a self-taught spey caster found his home in Bristol Bay and why the Togiak remains one of the last true swing rivers for Chinook.     Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/840  

 #839 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/839 Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Smitty's Fly Box, Mountain Waters Resort, Jackson Hole Fly Company Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Ben Smith of Arizona Wanderings walks us across Arizona — from the high-country creeks that hold Apache trout to the canals and reclaimed ponds around Phoenix, where carp and tilapia lurk. He talks native-fish recovery efforts, the best shoulder-season windows for trout, small-stream tactics (long leaders, stealth, and micro presentations), and the surprisingly wide variety of warm- and cold-water opportunities within a few hours of the city. Along the way, Ben shares how he started blogging, why he still ties flies and furled leaders, and how junior angler programs are getting kids bitten by the fishing bug. #839 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/839

838 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/838 Presented by:  Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Ever wonder what it's like to grow up where fly fishing isn't just a hobby — it's the family business? Today we're heading to Eastern Idaho, where the Berry family has spent over a century guiding anglers through the waters of the Teton, Henry's Fork, and South Fork of the Snake. Our guest, Brian Berry of Teton Valley Lodge, shares the incredible story of how his great-grandfather turned a handful of guided trips in 1919 into one of the oldest operating lodges in the West. Brian takes us deep into the history, craftsmanship, and conservation that have defined his family's life on the river — from wooden boats and stagecoach travelers to modern-day drift boats and the rebirth of wild trout in the Teton River.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/838

#837 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/837     Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Fish The Fly, TroutRoutes, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   In this episode, we dig into Central Texas fly fishing with guide and musician-turned-angler Alvin Dedeaux of All Water Guides. Alvin shares how his path from the music scene, where Nirvana once opened for his band, led him to become one of the top Orvis-Endorsed outfitters in the country. We dive into the incredible diversity of Texas fly fishing, from Guadalupe bass on the Colorado and Llano Rivers to sight fishing for redfish on the Texas coast. Alvin breaks down when and where to find the best action, what makes Central Texas such a special place to fish, and how fly fishing here blends both fresh and saltwater adventures like nowhere else. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/837      

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/836 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge, Fish The Fly, and Montana Fly Fishing Lodge.  Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Stillwater fly fishing in Alaska is one of the state's most underrated experiences — and George Krumm, editor of Fish Alaska Magazine, wants to change that. In this episode, George joins to share why Stillwater Fly Fishing in Alaska holds massive potential for trophy trout, and how understanding the lake's ecosystem can help anglers unlock consistent success throughout the season. From post–ice-out timing and hover-line techniques to identifying scud-rich lakes and choosing the right presentation depth, George breaks down the essential strategies that make Alaska's stillwaters so rewarding. You'll also hear how local anglers can use stocking data, structure maps, and a little patience to find fish that rival the best rivers in the state — without leaving the road system.

835 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/835 Presented by: Visit Idaho Nelson Ishiyama, owner of Henry's Fork Lodge, has spent over 50 years studying trout, bugs, and water, from the casting ponds of Golden Gate Park to the legendary pools of the Henry's Fork. In this episode, Nelson shares how the lodge came to life with the help of a world-class architect and why he believes service and conservation should always be at the heart of a great fly fishing experience. We also talk about: What it takes to build and protect a true fly fishing legacy His love for sight fishing on the Fork The flies he trusts most Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/835

#834 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/834 Presented By: Jackson Hole Fly Company, Intrepid Camp Gear, Stonefly Nets, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Kyle Glass (Trout Trap Flies) walks us through the strange, rewarding world of night mousing and trophy brown trout. He explains why big browns often feed at night, how tiny mouse imitations (the "Minnie Mouse") can out-fish giant patterns, and why glow tabs and glow lines are mainly tools for the angler—not bait for the fish. Kyle also breaks down his typical gear (6-wt setups, 9-ft rods, Maxima leaders), the logistics of night guiding on the White River, and how to present mice for the highest conversion rates (dead drifts with fast retrieves and deliberate pauses). #834 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/834

#833 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/833     Presented by: Smitty's Fly Box, Mountain Waters Resort, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   Fresh off hosting our Steelhead School at the Skeena Spey Riverside Wilderness & Lodge, Jeff walks us through what makes the Skeena River such a magnetic place for traveling anglers. We dig into the small details that make the biggest difference, like how shorter sink tips can unlock big water, why swing speed and fly angle matter more than you think, and how Great Lakes techniques translate perfectly to the wild rivers of BC. Whether you're new to two-handed casting or have been chasing chrome for years, you'll find plenty of tips and stories to level up your next swing. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/833      

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/832 Presented By: Visit Idaho  Mike Komara walks us through the mindset of a competitor — and how that mindset makes you a better everyday angler. From hand-me-down rods in Pittsburgh to medals with Team USA, Mike explains why simplicity wins: a single-fly approach, smart microleader setups, and a handful of adaptable rods. We talk translating spring-creek precision to big western rivers, reading water and bugs the moment you step out of the car, and the small technical moves (tuck casts, inverted drifts, matching bottom speed) that turn drifts into fish. It's part practical how-to, part origin story, and a reminder that good fishing usually comes from thinking less about gear and more about the water. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/832

831B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/831B Presented by:  Moccasin Fly Club   John Hunt of Moccasin Fly Club is back, and this time he'll walk us through two upcoming saltwater programs: the Double Haul Tournament in Xcalak, Mexico, and the Baja Blast in El Sargento, Baja California Sur.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/831B

#831 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/831    Presented by: Mountain Waters Resort, Togiak River Lodge, Fish The Fly Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  We're diving into Newfoundland fly fishing with Kastine Coleman, a professional fly fishing guide, certified casting instructor, and leader of the Salmon Preservation Association for the Waters of Newfoundland and Labrador (SPAWN). She's also a board member with the Foundation for Conservation of Atlantic Salmon (FCAS) and has spent years balancing life on the water with hands-on conservation. In this episode, Kastine shares how she's helping protect salmon runs through fish ladders, counters, and habitat restoration projects. We also dig into what it's like to guide across more than twenty salmon rivers in Newfoundland, her approach to teaching fly casting, and why late June is her favorite time to chase Atlantic salmon. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/831     

Show Notes:https://wetflyswing.com/830 Presented By: Mountain Waters Resort Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Few fishing experiences compare to the thrill of pursuing Atlantic salmon on a fly rod. In this episode, Calvin Tull shares his passion for Atlantic salmon fly fishing and the art of Spey casting, offering a glimpse into the patience, precision, and technique that define this timeless pursuit. From scenic rivers to unforgettable encounters on the water, Calvin reflects on the lessons learned through years of fishing adventures and the subtle details that turn a good cast into a great one. Whether you're an experienced angler or just beginning your fly fishing journey, you'll find inspiration and practical insights in this conversation. 02:47 – He talks about how he transitioned from conventional gear to using fly rods and why that change completely reshaped his fishing journey. 05:28 – He recalls the moment he realized the power of the swing while learning to chase shad, describing how it sparked his obsession with fly fishing. Fly fishing Photo Provided by - Calvin Tull 07:54 – He shares memories of his early mentors and how their patience and instruction helped him refine his casting and reading-the-water skills. Watch How to Read The Water here.  10:36 – He discusses the excitement of planning his first major salmon trip and the nerves that came with trying something entirely new. 13:12 – He explains how preparation—fly selection, line setup, and practice—can make or break a trip before you ever step into the river. Rifle Hitch Atlantic Salmon Tubes Photo Provided by Calvin Tull 15:47 – He tells a story about catching his first Atlantic salmon and the pure adrenaline that came with landing that unforgettable fish. Atlantic Salmon photo Provided by Calvin Tull 18:34 – He laughs about the challenges of learning Spey casting and how it took dozens of tangled lines before things finally started to click. Watch a 7-minute Spey Fishing Lesson for you! Click it here 21:05 – He opens up about the mistakes most new anglers make and how trial and error taught him lessons no book could ever explain. 24:02 – He shares his favorite types of flies, explaining why he prefers simple, durable patterns that hold up against powerful fish. An assortment of expertly tied streamer flies, perfect for targeting Atlantic salmon in fly fishing 26:48 – He reflects on fishing local Pennsylvania waters, explaining how each season brings new species and fresh challenges to chase. 29:37 – He talks about how patience and rhythm matter more than technique when you're learning to feel the water's flow. 32:10 – He recalls one of his toughest fishing days when nothing went right—and how those experiences often teach more than perfect ones. Fly fishing in a pristine river surrounded by scenic wilderness — an unforgettable outdoor experience. 38:09 – He opens up about the community aspect of fishing and the importance of sharing stories, tips, and time on the water with others. 41:03 – He explains the subtle connection between casting and mindfulness, saying both require focus, timing, and presence. Tips on How to Focus and See More Fish - Click here! 43:57 – He shares his love for exploring new rivers and the excitement of not knowing what each cast might bring. 46:44 – He gives practical advice to beginners—keep your gear simple, watch the water, and don't rush the process. 49:22 – He tells a story about mentoring a young angler and how seeing others grow reignited his own passion for teaching. 52:15 – He reflects on how fishing has evolved for him—from catching fish to appreciating the journey, nature, and the friendships built along the way. stunning Coho salmon freshly landed during a fly fishing adventure 52:15 – He reflects on how fishing has evolved for him—from catching fish to appreciating the journey, nature, and the friendships built along the way. 55:03 – He wraps up by sharing what keeps him returning to the water year after year: the peace, the challenge, and the endless lessons the river offers. 57:36 – He ends on an inspiring note, encouraging listeners to find their own rhythm, stay curious, and never stop learning from the water.  

#829 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/829   Presented by: Togiak River Lodge, TroutRoutes, Visit Idaho, FishHound Expeditions Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors         In this episode, host Jeff Liskay and Dave Whitey Evans takes us into Bulkley River Fly Fishing. They dive into stories from the Bulkley River system, talk about what makes this water so special for steelhead, and share what life is like running a world-class fishing lodge in British Columbia. With Dave's humor and deep experience, this episode is a mix of laughs, wisdom, and a genuine love for fishing and community. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/829      

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/828 Presented By: Smitty's Fly Box, Four Wheel Campers, Mountain Waters Resort, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Evan Griggs, founder of Fishing For All, walks us through Minnesota's surprising, varied fisheries — from tight spring-fed trout creeks to the big, free-flowing Saint Croix and the Mississippi in the Twin Cities. He explains why smallmouth migrate up to 80–100 miles each season, how guide days look (drift boats, 8-wts, mice and popper windows), and why locals are seeing epic multi-species opportunities — muskie, pike, carp, native sunfish, and big smallmouth. Evan mixes practical trip planning, conservation wins (catch-and-release protections), and stories about teaching new anglers and building a guiding business that shows people how close great fishing can be. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/828

827 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/827 Presented by:   Visit Idaho, Fish The Fly, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Patagonia Ever wonder why some anglers swear by tube flies or why that little hitch on the surface can make a salmon go wild? Today, we're hanging out with Jesper Fohrmann, the creative mind behind Fishmadman and one of the most passionate salmon anglers out there. Jesper's spent decades chasing Atlantic salmon and sea trout across Denmark, Norway, and the UK, perfecting flies and techniques that have earned a cult following from Scandinavia to Newfoundland. We dig into why tube flies can outfish hooks, what makes the riffle hitch so deadly in cold water, and how Jesper approaches leaders, rods, and presentation. Plus, we talk about his favorite patterns, the Scandinavian underhand style, and how all of it connects to steelhead fishing around the world.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/827

#826 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/826   Presented By: Mountain Waters Resort, On DeMark Lodge, San Juan Rodworks, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Texas Hill Country is its own little ecosystem — limestone banks, spring-fed creeks, and a species list that reads like a road map of surprises. Chris Johnson of Living Waters Fly Fishing walks us through why central Texas fishes year-round: the state-endemic Guadalupe bass, the only U.S. native Rio Grande cichlid, water that fishes like trout one month and bass the next, and a shop-led conservation program (Fly Fish the Republic) that's funding real science. We get practical rigging and fly choices (sink-tips and diving hair bugs for big bass, tiny jigs for picky cichlids), how to read fall windows for multi-species trips, and the backstory on a Texas-built fly line — the Texas Taper — developed with Scientific Anglers and sold through the shop. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/826

825 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/825 This episode of CJ's Reel Southern Podcast brings together two seasoned Arkansas guides, Morgan Guss of Diamond State Fly Co. and Matt Millner of Rising River Guides. They'll walk us through the White River's changing seasons and the strategies that keep anglers successful year-round.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/825