Podcasts about steelhead

  #934 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/934 Presented By: Intrepid Camp Gear, Togiak River Lodge, Gallatin River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What does it really take to film fly fishing at the highest level? In this episode, Todd Moen of Catch Magazine joins us to share the story behind some of the most iconic fly fishing films ever created—from steelhead rivers in the Pacific Northwest to remote destinations across the globe. We dig into Todd's early production days filming for Fly Fishing the World, surviving a plane crash in the Bahamas, and how he eventually built Catch Magazine into one of the most respected visual storytelling brands in fly fishing. Todd also explains why steelhead may be the hardest species to film, how music shapes his editing process, and what most people never realize about the amount of work required to capture a single unforgettable fish on camera. #934 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/934

Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash sits down with Josh Trammell, Head Guide at Mad River Outfitters in Columbus, Ohio, for a candid look at what it takes to build and sustain a full-time, four-season guide career. Josh covers the Ohio multi-species fishing calendar — smallmouth bass, northern pike, steelhead and carp — along with seasonal guiding in Alaska and destination schools targeting musky and trophy trout.Josh traces his path from catching his first steelhead at age 11 on Elk Creek with Tim Hess — a swung fly — through early years shadowing the Steelhead Alley Outfitters crew of Greg Senyo, Nate Miller and Patrick Robinson, to becoming Head Guide at Mad River Outfitters and a seasonal guide at Naknek River Camp near King Salmon, Alaska. His guide year spans Ohio smallmouth through multiple simultaneous seasonal windows on Lake Erie tributaries and inland rivers, northern pike during their late-winter pre-spawn, steelhead from November through freeze-up and summer Pacific salmon guiding in Alaska. Josh also discusses the January musky school he co-runs with Blane Chocklett and Virginia Trophy Guides in Roanoke, Virginia, spring trout trips to the White River in Arkansas and his growing enthusiasm for carp on the fly. Throughout, he shares practical, unvarnished advice for aspiring full-time guides on the financial realities, logistics and genuine passion required to make it work year-round.Key TakeawaysHow a young angler can break into guide work at reduced financial risk by starting early, staying local and leveraging mentor relationships before major life expenses accumulate.Why the four-season model — cycling through Ohio smallmouth, pike, steelhead, Alaska salmon and destination schools — insulates full-time guides from unpredictable weather far better than single-species operations.When Ohio smallmouth become the most technically versatile species to guide, spanning crayfish dead-drifts, big early-season streamers, scaled-down baitfish imitations and topwater presentations across multiple seasonal phases.Why calibrating each guide day to the individual client's skill level and genuine expectations — rather than chasing personal hero shots — is the real key to repeat business and a sustainable career.How carp on the fly delivers a saltwater-style sight-fishing experience on Ohio freshwater, with few presentations per day and a high premium on reading fish behavior before ever picking up the rod.Why partnering with a full-service fly shop like Mad River Outfitters gives clients a reliable gear and knowledge resource and meaningfully reduces administrative pressure on the guide.Techniques & Gear CoveredJosh guides across a wide technique spectrum that shifts with species and season. Ohio smallmouth receive dead-drifted crayfish patterns in low, clear conditions; big early-season streamers in high or stained water; scaled-down slim-profile baitfish imitations as flows drop through summer; and topwater presentations during the warmest stretches of the year. Steelhead on Steelhead Alley are targeted on both swung flies and indicator rigs, while northern pike receive focused attention during their January and February pre-spawn window — when Ohio weather cooperates. Carp fishing is an increasingly important part of Josh's warm-weather program, using a methodical visual approach borrowed directly from saltwater fly fishing: reading feeding behavior, waiting for clean shot opportunities and presenting deliberately to individual fish, often making no more than 10 to 15 casts in a full day. The annual musky school he leads with Blane Chocklett in Roanoke, Virginia, pairs a one-day tactical masterclass in predator fly techniques with four days of fishing on the water through Virginia Trophy Guides.Locations & SpeciesJosh's Ohio guiding program covers Lake Erie tributaries and inland rivers in northeastern Ohio, targeting steelhead through the November to freeze-up window and northern pike during the late-winter pre-spawn period. Ohio's multi-phase smallmouth calendar — with pre-spawn, spawning and post-spawn fish available simultaneously across different tributaries in mid-spring — gives Josh an unusually diverse season that stretches from spring through early fall. Carp are pursued on Ohio's clearer flatwater fisheries using visual sight-fishing methods, providing a reliable warm-weather alternative when smallmouth and pike waters run high and off-color. For destination work, Josh guides Pacific salmon at Naknek River Camp on the drainage near King Salmon, Alaska through summer; pursues musky with Virginia Trophy Guides on rivers outside Roanoke each January; and leads spring trout trips targeting caddis and sulphur hatches on the White River near Flippin and Cotter, Arkansas.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you break into a full-time fly fishing guide career?Josh emphasizes starting young when bills and financial obligations are minimal — shadowing established guides on both working trips and fun-fishing days, learning how programs are structured and how to rig for different conditions. Building genuine relationships within a regional guide community, as Josh did with the Steelhead Alley Outfitters crew, opens the doors to early opportunities. He cautions that anyone entering the guide game with significant financial obligations should plan carefully around Mother Nature's ability to cancel trips and budget realistically for the shoulder seasons.What does a full four-season guide year look like in Ohio?Starting in mid-spring, Josh runs Ohio smallmouth across multiple simultaneous seasonal windows on Lake Erie tributaries and inland rivers, alongside pike fishing that extends through warm weather. He transitions to Alaska for Pacific salmon guiding through early October, returns for a brief Ohio window before steelhead season opens in November and then runs Steelhead Alley through December freeze-up. Winter brings the annual musky school in Roanoke, Virginia with Blane Chocklett; spring opens destination trout trips on the White River in Arkansas; and carp provide a flexible alternative when other fisheries are unfishable.Why are Ohio smallmouth such a compelling guide species?Unlike steelhead, which Josh describes as largely limited to swung or indicator-presented flies, Ohio smallmouth accommodate a wide range of techniques across multiple seasonal phases — from large early-season streamers in blown-out water to crayfish patterns in low, clear conditions to topwater presentations on summer flows. That tactical variety keeps guides and clients engaged across a far longer window than most single-species programs allow. The overlapping seasonal stages across different river systems also mean a thoughtful guide can almost always find smallmouth in a fishable phase somewhere in the region.What is the key to being a successful fishing guide?Josh argues that the most important skill is calibrating each day to the individual client's actual skill level and genuine expectations — not the guide's own benchmark for a good outing. A beginner who lands several smallmouth while mastering a 30- to 40-foot cast has had an excellent day by their measure, which may look very different from a guide's definition of success. Open communication between guide and client about what they actually want from the day smooths out the experience and builds the kind of relationship that generates return bookings.How does carp fishing on the fly compare to other species in Josh's program?Josh describes carp as the closest freshwater equivalent to saltwater sight fishing available in Ohio — standing, hunting, watching and waiting before making deliberate presentations to individual fish rather than covering water. On a productive day with 10 shots at fish, he may cast only 10 to 15 times total, making each presentation count. High-water years that push smallmouth and pike fisheries off-color or out of shape have accelerated his carp development, and he now relies on it as a consistent warm-weather alternative when other species aren't cooperating.SponsorsThanks to TroutRoutes for sponsoring this episode. Use ARTFLY20 to get 20% off of your TroutRoutes Pro membership.Related ContentS6, Ep 97: Fly Fishing Wisdom and Industry Pet Peeves with Greg SenyoS7, Ep 40: Exploring the Carp Game: Techniques and Tales with Corey Haselhuhn of Schultz OutfittersS8, Ep 22: From The Chocklett Factory: Blane Chocklett on Community, Conservation and New Fly ReleasesS8, Ep 24: From Tattoo to Trout: Aaron Chine's Dual Passion for Art and Steelhead...

932 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/932 Presented by:  Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho,  FishHound Expeditions, AVC Rig There aren't many anglers left who were there when modern fly fishing was still being figured out. Jim Teeny and Dick Sagara lived through that era, helped shape it, and still have the stories to prove it. In this episode, we dig into the early days of winter steelhead fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest, the birth of the Teeny fly lines, and the people who changed the sport along the way. We also talked about the famous "I spot 'em, I got 'em" philosophy that still sparks conversation today. This one moves from steelhead to tarpon to fly line design and back again, with a bunch of classic stories packed in between. Let's go! Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/932

I'm talking with Jonny King this week. We dig into his start to fishing and how much Lunkers love nightcrawlers, fishing in the northeast, catadromous eels, his music journey, meeting and fishing with his wife, striper fishing, the evolution of fly tying, the joys of exploration, and so much more.

This week I'm joined by Patrick Cook. We discuss his time growing up in Michigan, his brotherly introduction to fly fishing, learning spey, Dette Flies' history and it's upcoming spey event, his own fly tying, Tacoma Tips, and so much more.

#918 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/918 Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Togiak River Lodge, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors In today's episode of In the Bucket podcast, Brian Niska is joined by Adrienne Comeau and Eric Leininger for a candid conversation on what really drives success in steelhead fishing. What starts with fly choice and presentation quickly shifts into a bigger discussion around uncertainty, experience, and how much control anglers actually have on the water. Eric shares a perspective shaped by years of guiding—that in certain conditions, especially when water temperatures are right, many of the details anglers focus on may not be as critical as they seem. Adrienne adds her experience from the river, highlighting the role of confidence, instinct, and pattern recognition, while also recognizing the randomness that shows up time and time again. Together, they unpack the balance between what we think we know and what remains unpredictable—and why that tension is part of what keeps steelhead fishing so compelling. #918 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/918

917B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/917B Presented by:  Togiak River Lodge Losing fish after a solid grab happens more than people talk about. You feel the eat, the rod loads up, maybe even a head shake, and then it's just gone. Floyd Carter is back to break down what he's been seeing all season, from the Olympic Peninsula to Togiak. They get into what an actual take feels like, when to stay patient, and when it's time to hit it. They also dig into the loop vs drag debate, how small changes might keep fish pinned, and why even experienced anglers are still figuring this out in real time. If you've been losing fish and can't quite figure out why, this one will hit close to home. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/917B

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/916b Great Lakes steelhead fly fishing doesn't have to be complicated. In this conversation with Rick Kustich, we dig into a simple, effective approach that's been refined over decades on the water. Rick has spent years chasing steelhead across the region, dialing in what actually works and cutting out what doesn't. This episode breaks down his mindset, his system, and how you can start fishing more confidently right away. If you're looking to simplify your approach and catch more fish without overthinking every detail, this one lays it out clearly.

On This week's episode I'm speaking with Aaron and Leah Helfrich of A. Helfrich Outfitters. We talk about there family river history, starting out as swampers, sweep boats, Leah's spey journey and her first time wading, busy rivers and permits, more boats, family fishing, fly tying adventures, gremlin maintenance, and so much more.

#910 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/910  Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Togiak River Lodge, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors    Jonathan Farmer from Midnight Sun Custom Flies shares how this camp blends the comfort of a lodge with the authenticity of a true Alaska steelhead camp. It's built for anglers who want to fish hard, learn more, and experience Alaska in the fall. From swing techniques to river behavior to camp life, this one is packed with insight for anyone chasing chrome. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/910     

Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash sits down with Aaron Chine, guide at Steelhead Alley Outfitters and accomplished visual artist based in Warren, Ohio, for a wide-ranging conversation about the intersection of fishing, guiding and fine art. Aaron came to fly fishing through Pennsylvania trout streams in his early teens and eventually found his way to Steelhead Alley through a mentorship network that includes Jeff Blood and Nate Miller, two of the fishery's most respected veterans. He joined Steelhead Alley Outfitters when Justin Schachilli and Patrick Robinson took over from Greg Senyo and has been guiding there ever since. The episode covers the full arc of Aaron's guiding career on Steelhead Alley, his philosophy on what makes a great guide and the seasonal rhythm of the Lake Erie tributary steelhead fishery from fall through early spring. On the art side, Aaron discusses his work in oil painting and murals — including a landmark 130-foot mural on the Scientific Anglers building in Midland, Michigan — his tattooing career at The Box Gallery and his perspective on the story and soul that human-made art carries in an age of AI-generated imagery. Upcoming Orvis collaborations round out the conversation.Key TakeawaysWhy finding migratory steelhead requires covering water aggressively rather than returning to yesterday's productive spotsHow the guide season on Steelhead Alley runs from fall through early spring, with November and March as peak periodsWhy showing clients a good time on the water — not just maximizing fish counts — defines long-term success as a guideHow using a grid method at large scale allows muralists to maintain proportion across massive public installationsWhy the story behind human-made art creates value and staying power that AI-generated imagery cannot replicateHow fishing and fine art intersect as sustainable parallel careers when neither alone provides full financial stabilityTechniques & Gear CoveredThis episode is more biographical than tactical, so the fishing content skews toward guiding philosophy and fishery structure rather than specific techniques or rigs. Aaron explains that steelhead on Steelhead Alley are migratory fish that move constantly, which means guides must put in the legwork to locate fish rather than relying on prior knowledge of productive lies — a discipline he credits largely to early mentors Jeff Blood and Nate Miller. He notes that tougher, more spread-out seasons demand even more aggressive water-covering to stay on fish. On the art side, Aaron discusses his medium in detail: he works primarily in oil on canvas, uses a grid-based scaling method for large murals and approaches large-scale work one block at a time to maintain proportion — the same technique taught in middle school art class, simply executed at 2-foot-by-2-foot scale. Scientific Anglers' signature red paint featured heavily in the SA building mural, which consumed 24 gallons of paint over seven days.Locations & SpeciesSteelhead Alley is the fishery at the center of this episode — specifically the Lake Erie tributaries along the Ohio-Pennsylvania-New York border, including Conneaut Creek and Cattaraugus Creek (the latter referenced in passing as Marvin's own experience fishing it with Jeff Blood). Steelhead are the primary target throughout the fall and spring seasons, with the fishery operating from roughly September or October through freeze-up in winter, and again through mid-April in spring. Aaron notes that conditions this season and last fall have featured more spread-out fish than peak years, reinforcing the fishery's migratory and weather-dependent nature. For summer fun fishing once the guiding season wraps, Aaron looks forward to smallmouth, pike and musky from a raft — a deliberately lower-pressure complement to the intensity of steelhead season.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow does the guide season on Steelhead Alley typically run?Aaron describes a two-peak season: fall, running from September or October through early December or freeze-up, with November as the prime window; and spring, with March as the busiest month and trips running through mid-April. January and February fishing is weather-dependent — this year, freeze-up shut it down entirely. Guides work essentially every day during peak periods.What's the key to being a successful steelhead guide?Aaron's answer centers on showing clients a good time rather than chasing maximum fish counts. He acknowledges that guides naturally want to put big numbers in the net, but argues that good clients primarily want to experience the fishery, learn to cast and run better drifts and enjoy time on the water — particularly in seasons when fish are spread out and harder to locate.Why does finding steelhead require so much mobile, aggressive water coverage?Because steelhead are migratory fish that move constantly, productive lies from one day can be completely empty the next. Aaron emphasizes putting miles on the boots and staying mobile, especially in lower-fish-density seasons. This is a foundational piece of Steelhead Alley guiding culture, reinforced by mentors like Jeff Blood and Nate Miller.How did Aaron approach painting the massive Scientific Anglers mural in Midland, Michigan?Aaron divided the 130-foot wall into 2-foot-by-2-foot grid squares and treated each block as its own self-contained piece, maintaining proportion across the full installation. He worked from sun-up to sundown for seven straight days to complete it before the 80th anniversary party. The project used 24 gallons of paint, including eight gallons of Scientific Anglers red for the background alone.How does Aaron think about the threat AI poses to visual artists working in the fishing and outdoor space?Aaron acknowledges that AI can produce visually competent imagery quickly and without paying an artist, but argues that it lacks the story and soul behind human-made work. He believes audiences — and fellow artists especially — can spot AI imagery immediately, and that the personal narrative connecting an artist to their work is ultimately what creates lasting value and authentic connection with buyers and fans.Related ContentS7, Ep 18 – License to Fish: The Intersection of Art and Angling with Cody Richardson of Cody's FishS3, Ep 145 – All Things Steelhead Alley with Jeff Blood (Part I)S3, Ep 153 – All Things Steelhead Alley with Jeff Blood (Part II)S6, Ep 97 – Fly Fishing Wisdom and Industry Pet Peeves with Greg SenyoConnect with Our GuestFollow Aaron on Instagram.Follow The Box Gallery on Instagram.Follow Steelhead Alley Outfitters on Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck,...

908 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/908 Presented by:  Golden Fly Shop, Fly Fish with me Utah, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Pescador on the Fly Do you remember when intruders took over with big profiles and tons of flash? But what if the real edge is going smaller? In this episode, we're digging into fishing smaller flies for Great Lakes steelhead and salmon, and what happens when you shift from bulk to balance and from heavy push to a more subtle presence. Alex Belonga breaks it down, from Temple Dogs to sparse hair wings, plus how presentation, movement, and fly design all play into getting more eats. 908 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/908  

Arian Stevens is joining me for this week's episode. We talk about how his mom introduced him to fishing, photography and shooting on film, the shared darkroom experience, Bend, the joys of working for yourself, fly shops, Belize, and if you can imagine it, liking something more than fishing.

Interview with Trevor Torppa of Chrome City Guide Service LLC - https://chromecityguideservicellc.com/  Discussing the Winter Steelhead and "In-betweener fishing" as well as his Alaska Fishing Guide Service, in Soldotna for Kings, Sockeye, Coho as well as Rainbow's that are gorging on flesh flies and eggs. You'll also hear the results of the January 8th Springer. 

Welcome to Roam Fish Powered by Naughty Nymph Co Host: Tony Fellows Guest: Andrew Homik On this episode of Roam Fish, Tony and Andrew once again sit down and catch up. Their conversation is centered around steelhead fishing and their most recent event on the water. Tony recently checked a huge item off his bucket list. Something that he has been trying to accomplish since 2009 and that is landing the allusive steelhead. Key Topics: Then and now Spinning to Fly Fishing Gear setups and improvisation An emotional journey of catching a steelhead Connect with the Hosts/Guests Andrew Homik – Fly Fishing Michigan LLC Tony Fellows - Instagram Resources/Links Roam Syndicate Vitalize Seed Ina Store Deer Hunter Synthetics Wildlife Legends Taxidermy Find It Fred Mac's Rustic Sport Shop Experiencewild10 at Brenton USA for 10% off online   Keep learning, keep pushing, and get outside! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/902 Presented By: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Mountain Waters Resort. Steelhead fishing rewards patience, repetition, and time on the water. In this episode, Dax Messett shares practical winter steelhead fishing tips on reading water, fishing near tidewater, choosing the right setup, and making better swings on coastal rivers. We also get into the lower Rogue, the Klamath, leader strength, tide influence, and how to land fish cleanly without a net.

On This Episode... Duane and Bill do a deep dive into preparation for the up-coming Puget Sound Blackmouth (Chinook) opener. The guys drill down on proven techniques and break down some basics that are proven for success. Also, the guys welcome In-studio guest, Senator Jeff Wilson. Senator Wilson introduced SB-5851 to deal with the over population of Sea Lions and the impact they are having on Salmon & Steelhead recovery. The fella's discuss Sea Lions, the culling of- and also the recent WA St. Legislative session and the dismantling of WDFW's budget and the removal of 10 million dollars from it moving forward.. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Watch the Video:  http://wetflyswing.com/steelheadbootcamp Sponsors:  https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors/ In this episode, Jeff Liskay breaks down the core ideas behind successful swung-fly steelhead fishing and why so many anglers struggle with it. Instead of focusing on gear or the perfect fly, Jeff explains that success starts with understanding where steelhead actually hold in a river. He shares lessons from decades of chasing steelhead across the Great Lakes, West Coast, and beyond, emphasizing how reading water, identifying structure, and recognizing current changes are the real keys to finding fish. Anglers need to think like hunters, targeting individual holding spots and learning to interpret the subtle clues the river gives about where steelhead are likely resting or traveling. Jeff also dives into the mechanics of presentation—how casting angle, sink tips, fly depth, and swing speed determine whether your fly actually enters a steelhead's "strike window." Small adjustments in rod position, mending, and step-down pacing can keep the fly in the right zone longer and dramatically increase the odds of a grab. Throughout the masterclass, he explains how to evaluate conditions, execute a thoughtful swing, and adjust based on what the river and fish are telling you. The result is a practical framework that helps anglers move beyond random casting and start fishing each run with purpose and confidence.

Chris Lawrence covers a full slate of hunting and fishing news on this week's West Virginia Outdoors. Rob Pate of the Southern West Virginia Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation previews the chapter's 25th anniversary banquet at Tamarack and shares an update on the growing Tomlin WMA elk herd, now at 140 animals with roughly 25 calves expected this spring. Ron Bierstein of Oak Orchard Tackle and Lodge in Orleans County, New York, reports on peak steelhead season along Lake Ontario tributaries and the approaching open-water charter season. DNR District 4 fish biologist Corey Hartman explains proposed changes to bass catch-and-release rules on the New River and Greenbrier River aimed at controlling the spread of invasive Alabama bass. Lawrence also reviews the DNR's proposed big game season adjustments, bear hunting rule changes, and new legislation affecting small impoundments and senior license holders.

I'm joined by Jason Renfro this week. We discuss his start to fishing whilst looking for cheaper hobbies, fishing with his kids, working in a fly shop, the desire to teach and instructing, the benefits of smaller scale communities, friendship, getting more out of the fly fishing journey, not being left handed, and so much more.

GUESTS: Skip Brand...Executive Director 20th Annual Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival Chef and Author Andrew Fowles My Jamaican Table Vibrant Recipes From A Sun-Drenched Island Chef Andre Fowles | Discover Authentic Caribbean Flavors – Get Inspired

#891 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/891  Presented by: Patagonia, FishHound Expeditions, Fish The Fly, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho  Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors/   Steelhead don't wait around long on the southern Oregon coast. They move with fresh water, travel tight to edges, and disappear as quickly as they show up. If you're thinking about Southern Oregon steelhead fishing, timing and water conditions matter more than hero casts. In this episode, I sat down with James Sampsel of Humble Heron Fly Fishing to talk about winter steelhead on short coastal rivers, fall fish on the middle Rogue, and why Chinook on the swing isn't always the plan. James lives in Port Orford, guides year-round, and sees these rivers change daily. We covered storm timing, travel lanes, lighter sink tips, fall "Novembers," and even plein air painting between steelhead sessions. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/891         

Steelhead on the Trinity River aren't accidental fish—and neither are the anglers who consistently find them. In this episode, professional guide Alex Ross breaks down the nuts and bolts of deep nymphing for Trinity River steelhead from a drift boat. We dive into reading flow-driven water, boat positioning, rigging for depth and control, fly selection by conditions, and the subtle adjustments that turn “good water” into hooked fish. If you want a practical, guide-tested approach to putting winter steelhead in the net on one of California's most iconic rivers, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

This week I'm talking with Jesse Lance Robbins about his new book "The Best Fly Fishing is Everywhere," which comes out today. We also discuss growing up in Maine, where his interest in writing started, studying abroad in Scotland and fishing in New Zealand, creative minds, tarpon, and so much more. Yo, Joe!

Brennen Schulz is a commercial fisherman and fishing guide who grew up in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about the transition from gear fishing to fly fishing, flies, proper hook sets, conservation and the life of being a guide.  Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska. Thanks to the sponsors: Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.) Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.) Backcountry Hunters and Anglers  

Runnin’ down the show: Jarod Higginbotham and Shane Magnuson of Yakimabait.com in studio and in town for Sportco’s Springer 101! // Regional Roundup: 2025 Springers by the numbers and the first NOF Forecasts leaking out // The BeauMac TECH Line: How do Columbia RIver spring chinook techniques change from tide water to the Bonneville pool? Jarod and Shane drills down on techniques by river mile // Picks of the week: Canadian Straits Chelan koks, Razor clams and STEELHEAD! 

Duane & Bill back In-Studio, with some great Steelhead discussion. Also, a little time out on the river with buddy Nick Petosa on the oars. Then, back In-studio for a How-To "Bait Lab" on how to set up your gear for successful, Bobber-Doggin'. Also, a brief discussion on the on-going investigation with our WA St. Fish & Wildlife Commission.. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Jimmy and Liam sit down with Andy to talk steelhead, salmon, and the very brief history of Lake Ontario stripers. Also, Liam recounts his first trip of the 2026 fishing season, chasing steelhead on the tributaries of Lake Erie. Book a trip with Andy: chasintailadventures.comCheck out Andy's YouTube Channel: Chasin' Tail Adventures - YouTube

What makes one steelhead fly more effective that the other? Does size and color matter?  Is there a silver bullet yet to be discovered? In this episode of Fin And Fire With Jeff Mishler, Jeff Hickman and I pick apart the steelheader's main concern: Should I change my fly? 

When is a trout a steelhead and when is it a rainbow? Are steelhead just rainbow trout that migrate to the ocean?  Is it something in their genes or just random chance? And in a given population of rainbow trout, will only some of them migrate to the ocean? And according to a biologist, are the Great Lakes "steelhead" truly steelhead? My guest fisheries biologist Katie Kobayashi [32:13] has studied these fish down to the genetic level and has some exciting information on their life histories. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions that I think will be helpful to many of you, including: If I hook a trout in the back behind the dorsal fin, will it survive OK? And can I count this fish as "caught"? What is the most useful saltwater fly line for inshore species? For my smaller creeks in Pennsylvania, would an 8 ½ foot 4-weight or 7 1/2-foot 3-weight be better? Have you used articulated flies? Have you had success with them? Are there articulated subsurface flies other than streamers? I have an 8-weight rod for flats fishing in salt water and want a second rod for bigger stuff.  Should I get a 9-weight or a 10-weight? For fishing in a Colorado tailwater, when should I use an indicator setup and when should I Euro-nymph? And when Euro nymphing, how can I get a tiny size 22 nymph down into the right zone?

Runnin’ down the show: David Feucht in the house! Last day of the Seattle Boat Show! See y’all at 9 at the Central Saloon! Dirty Downrigger Tricks at 1:00pm with free Silver Horde Outdoor Line Spoons! // Regional Roundup: : Days getting longer, Steelhead and Razor clams! Spring prep! March lings and April kings! // The BeauMac TECH Line: : David Feucht of Duckworth: What’s it take to improve and evolve all models every year! // Picks of the Week!

Duane & Bill are back In-Studio and joined by long time buddy Nick Petosa. The guys cover a lot of ground and discuss Steelhead hatchery opportunity, Broodstock options with the introduction of Senate Bill 6241 Wild Broodstock Conservation Program. Where will this go? Also, where to go to catch a Big Wild fish, with near by Coastal Rivers closing soon and the Skagit/Sauk definitely not an option.... What is left? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week I'm talking with Rachel Finn and we discuss the Adirondacks, voluntary beatdowns capming stories, first meetings and all of that is before I even remember to actually start the show. We also discuss her start to fishing, Alaska, horses, Winslow Homer, and so much more.

Discussing the unicorn catch with Matt Gohlke of Music World Stores. An incredible surprise while backtrolling for Steelhead turns into what may be the earliest Spring-run Chinook ever recorded in the area. Matt reveals what color caught the fish and we talk about the story of the day, plus hatchery workers insights into why this can happen. New song releases Tuesday Feb 3! "Doesn't Matter Caught A Fish" previewed in the episode. Search "Lucas Holmgren" on Spotify/Apple Music or other music apps to listen to this song and others. 

Jim McCarthy of Water Watch and Jake Crawford of The Steamboaters return this week to talk to us about the continuing events on the North Umpqua around the Winchester Dam. We discuss the support of the ODFW,  the cost of owning a 135 year old dam versus the cost of removal, the dam owner's continued fight against laws and regulations, the ecological benefits of dam removal, and more.

Some great moments have happened so far this year Steelhead fishing. In this episode you'll hear a few plus tips to search for Steelhead. Presentations like floated & dragged beads/bait, float fishing jigs/worms are discussed. Packing light vs. heavy on bank trips, fishing on the move and more...By the way - I've got articles in the Salmon Trout Steelheader digital subscription and you can support STS and subscribe for less than 10 bucks! Thank you to everyone who has already subscribed, and thanks in advance to anyone who does.  Use Code: STSPODCAST to get yourself a year subscription for only 8.99! https://salmontroutsteelheader.com/products/subscription

Runnin’ down the show: Welcome to PREP season! What you do now determines YOUR success! // Regional Roundup: Towing across the state, Steelhead, squid and show season STUFF! // Mike Zavadlov of MikeZ's Guide Service January Olympic Peninsula Steelhead action // Picks of the Week!

Despite winter weather and power outages the River Rambler is back and I'm joined by Nate Devol for the first episode of the year. We discuss is his life on the 45th parallel, the fun of rear wheel drive trucks, winter skis and summer boats, movie influences and the start to his fishing journey, learning spey, community outreach, coffee and leather craft, Kimsquit Bay, and so much more.

University of Alaska-Fairbanks fisheries ecologist (steelhead expert) Michael Courtney talks about Alaska steelhead biology, tagging studies using pop-up satellite archival tags, and the unexpected westward migrations these repeat spawners take. We also cover predation risks, timing and river conditions, fishing methods, and how to follow ongoing research or contact the team for publications and data. Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska. Thanks to the sponsors: Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.) Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.) Backcountry Hunters and Anglers  

Tim Arsenault returns! In episode 8, Tim and Dave sit down at the EWA fly shop after weather permitted an on-water spey day, to catch up and discuss the latest at Bridge Outfitting and what's coming in 2026. This ones full of industry happening's, nuggets eluding to new product releases and a lot of insight into the world of Spey casting and what makes Bridge Lines such a hot commodity... and also, the real life struggles and triumphs that brings them to life. This is a fun one!   About | Tim Arsenault: I have spent a good portion of my life fishing for Steelhead and Salmon all around the Pacific Northwest region,and over a decade in fly fishing retail. During this time I was exposed to a great many talented people, fly lines, rods, and just about everything else involving fly fishing. As I continued working in the industry I developed ideas about where fly lines and tackle could go in terms of design and intended uses, as well as what I wanted and expected out of the tackle I used day in and day out.    About | Dave McCoy: Raised in Eugene, Oregon, my stomping grounds were of legendary namesake; the Deschutes, McKenzie and North Umpqua Rivers among others. I quickly discovered the thrill of having a fish on but was always in awe of my surroundings. My early exposure to water in all forms led me away from fly fishing to pursue a career as a ski race coach but was always mindful of what fly fishing brought to my life. I have a habit of relentlessly pursuing the effort to exceed expectations and create a more inclusive narrative for this sport.

Tom and Joey are joined by Pat Patillo of the Puget Sound Recreational Fishing Advisory Board to discuss the 2026 Salmon outlook and the upcoming Seattle Boat Show, they check in on some local Steelhead opportunities with Todd Daniels of Tall Tails Guide Service, they bring you the latest on the Governor’s  probe into WDFW in the Northwest Outdoor Report, and they wrap up the show by telling you some of the biggest local fishing and hunting opportunities. 

Chris O'Donnell is a well versed man.  As a fly shop owner, fishing guide, outfitter and family man, he is committed to his clients and his business. In this episode of Fin And Fire With Jeff Mishler, Chris and I about talk winter and summer steelhead---  lines, flies, rods, seasons, jet boats and whether a popper is a skater, or a skater is a waker...Yup, we dork out a bit. This is a great primer for your upcoming winter steelhead trip.

Ohio's North Coast, known as “Steelhead Alley” has become a favorite destination for anglers across the country. Many of the diehard steelhead anglers we spoke with expressed concern over the number of fish in our streams. As with most fishing related issues it's complicated and a combination of several factors. Today, our guest is Curt Wagner from the ODNR. We discuss Ohio's steelhead program the past, present and future. Curt explains in detail what happened in the last few years that might have affected the return rate. Also, he shares insight for the bright future plans for the program. It's a very interesting podcast any angler will enjoy!

This week I'm joined by Wayne Vierhout. We discuss is early IT and software days, his fishing progression from worm to flys, his love for tube flys, his very first rod, Atlantic salmon, how he got into bamboo building and designing tapers, retirement, and even some rod building secrets.

#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         

This week I'm talking with Sam Rocha. We talk about his family full of fishers and the Rio Grande, his spectacular college experience and his first teaching job, how that led to steelhead, a brief story about how he got into spey, learing with guides, bamboo, cooking, and the philosophy of sufffering and chocolate milk.

#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        

You can catch salmon and steelhead on a fly in salt water before they enter rivers. The fish are bright and strong and may still be actively feeding but the problem is to find them in a big expanse of water. Reed Teuscher [41:01] of the Orvis Outfitters team tells us where to look for them, how to present the fly, what kinds of rods and lines you need—and of course what fly patterns seem to work best.   In the Fly Box this week we have these questions and more: How can I keep my dropper from twisting around the leader when Euro nymphing? What kinds of flies are banned and why? If I only fish a few days a year, how long will my fly lines last? Do guides tell Tom "set!" when he fishes with them? And do they tell him where to put his flies? Do brook trout feed less than brown trout during spawning season? Am I missing something by not building my own leaders? What does a 3-weight rod give me that my 4-weight won't? When you under-line a fly rod and increase your line speed, does that detract from your accuracy? On articulated flies with only a single hook, should I keep the hook in front or in back? I want to learn to fly fish next season. Should I buy a rod now and practice over the winter before taking an FF101 class? I had a frustrating day with spooky brown trout. I could not get 25 feet away from them without spooking them. How can I catch these trout? What fly patterns use micro mink Zonker strips?

This podcast was originally published on December 28th, 2016. In this podcast Stefan Woodruff, Orvis-endorsed guide with Ellensburg Anglers in Washington State, reveals (some of) his secrets to catching steelhead, plus an overview of ths steelhead opportunities in his state. Trout anglers will also enjoy his tips on fishing the Yakima River, tips that should work anywhere.  In The Fly Box we range from tying gel-spun backing to fly line, how to fish with a friend and really fish together, what to do if you get snagged on a small stream, hooking fish on fiberglass rods, identifying jumping fish, what materials to save for fly tying from hunting trips, how to avoid drag when fishing to fish in a slow pocket on the other side of fast current. I also decline to give marital advice to one listener.