Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

#807 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/807   Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        In this episode, Jeff Liskay, your “Great Lakes Dude”, dives deep into the skunked angler's survival guide. From steelhead slumps to blown-out lake days, Jeff shares how he adjusts on the fly, learns from tough conditions, and finds success even when the odds are stacked against him. This episode was inspired by real conversations at the boat ramp with anglers wondering what to do after getting skunked. Jeff’s answer? Start solving the puzzle. Whether you’re struggling with fly selection, pressure, or just can’t seem to find fish, this episode is packed with tactical tips and hard-earned wisdom from 250 days a year on the water. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/807       

806 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/806 Presented by:  On DeMark Lodge, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Jackson Hole Fly Company,  Patagonia In this episode, we dive into Jeff Putnam's straightforward approach to spey casting, built on feel, timing, and simplicity. Jeff walks us through the four steps to better spey casting, common mistakes he sees on the water (and how to fix them), and what to do when your confidence takes a hit mid-swing. (We've all been there!)  We also get into the evolution of spey lines and rods, the Rogue River, Northern California, and tips for everything from trout with a three-weight to winter steelhead on big rivers. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/806  

#805 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/805 Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Intrepid Camp Gear, Mountain Waters Resort, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Ever find yourself standing on a river’s edge, the line in the water, and somehow everything makes sense, even when nothing should? That’s where I landed with Jonathan “Jon” Gluck, a writer, editor, and fly-fishing lifer—or at least, someone whose lifeline came through steelhead-strength treatments and the quiet grace of a swing. Jon was told he had about 18 months to live after a multiple myeloma diagnosis more than two decades ago. Instead of slowing down, he found healing where you’d expect it least—in the gentle arc of a cast, the flash of the fly, the now. There’s a lot of power in An Exercise in Uncertainty, his memoir, but even more in the way Jon leans into what fishing gives us: calm, clarity, and a reminder that presence is everything. #805 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/805

#804 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/804  Presented by: Stonefly Nets, Intrepid Camp Gear, San Juan Rodworks Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors         Phil Rowley breaks down the world of sinking lines—why and when to use them, how to pick the right one, and the tricks that make them effective. From understanding sink rates and densities to choosing leaders and rigging setups, Phil shares practical tactics that can help you fish deeper and smarter on lakes. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/804   

803 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/803 Presented by: TroutRoutes If you’re curious about Michigan steelhead and salmon fishing, this episode is for you. Christian Gradowski swings streamers under city bridges, strips flies for kings in water warmer than most trout would tolerate, all while capturing it all on film.  You’ll learn how to read tricky currents without obvious structure, get prepped for Great Lakes kings, and why July bass fishing can actually teach you how to swing in November. Christian keeps it real, sharing stories from the gravel runs of the Muskegon to the busy Grand River, where steelhead stack up under freeway overpasses. Find out why stripping streamers could be your new go-to and how glow-headed flies help get bites in cold water. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/803

Show Notes:https://wetflyswing.com/802 Presented By: Intrepid Camp Gear   Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   Mckenzie Johns’ fly fishing road trips have taken her from small Pennsylvania streams to epic solo journeys across the Rockies. On her recent fly fishing road trip from Colorado to Alberta, Mckenzie combined her passion for trout fishing with the freedom of rooftop tent camping, traveling with her blue heeler, and testing the Intrepid Geo Solo tent. Along the way, she shared how fitness helps her stay strong and confident outdoors, making long days on the river and setting up camp effortless. Her approach blends gear know-how, solo travel safety, and a love for exploring wild, beautiful places. For women looking to plan their own fly fishing road trips, Mckenzie’s story shows it’s possible to merge fishing, camping, and fitness into one unforgettable experience. From choosing the right tent and packing fly fishing essentials to embracing solo travel and building outdoor strength, her advice en

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/801 Presented By: Grand Teton Fly Fishing, FishHound Expeditions, Togiak River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Today's guest traded trout strains for silk thread vintage hooks, and the history-packed world of classic fly tying never looked back. From his first salmon fly at age 12 to becoming a leading voice in preserving old school craftsmanship, Tony Smith has spent decades chasing the perfect thread wrap. By the end of this episode, you'll know what really defines a classic salmon fly, why wax silk and antique hooks still matter, and how tying flies help Tony navigate OCD social anxiety and come out on the other side. Tony Smith is here to share what it's really like inside the quirky and passionate world of classic salmon fly tying, what the feather thief story got right and wrong, and why sometimes keeping it simple is still the most beautiful thing you can do at the vise. Plus, we're going to find out why reaching out to your fly-tying heroes might be

#800 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/800  Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, Intrepid Camp Gear, Mountain Waters Resort, Patagonia Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        In this episode, we sit down with Robert “Bob” Lindquist of Flies for Fish to talk all about fly fishing the Delaware River. Bob grew up fishing Montauk beaches from a ’55 Willys Jeep, learned to tie flies on common nails, and eventually dedicated his life to guiding and teaching others on one of the most technical tailwaters in the East. We dive into how to read rise forms, why line management can matter more than casting distance, and how a bar merger pattern can outfish a dry fly four-to-one. Bob also shares the truth behind the Delaware’s legendary rainbow trout, his go-to patterns for the river, and why furled leaders and reach casts are game changers in this fishery. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/800    

799 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/799 Presented by:  San Juan Rodworks, Visit Idaho, Jackson Hole Fly Company, TroutRoutes Looking to unlock the secrets of night fishing for brown trout? Imagine swinging mice and streamers under the glow of your headlamp, hooking big browns long after the sun goes down. In this episode, you’ll discover how glow-in-the-dark flies work, why unweighted streamers can turn the bite on, and how to read water by feel, not sight. Frank Landis, a Pennsylvania fly fishing guide, shares his expert insights on stream temperatures, seasonal triggers, the truth behind mouse patterns, and why slowing down is the key to success after dark. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/799  

#798 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/798 In this episode of CJ’s Reel Southern Podcast, Chad brings on his fishing crew — a mix of guides and friends he’s traveled and fished with for years. They share funny and crazy stories from the water, like breaking gear, getting stuck in shallow flats, and even mistaking big bonefish for sharks. The crew talks about the teamwork it takes to fish together, the challenges of different waters like the Louisiana marsh and Florida flats, and how they’ve learned (and laughed) through plenty of mistakes. They also share how to book trips with them, whether it’s tarpon in Florida, redfish in Louisiana, or even fishing in Cuba. It’s a fun, laid-back conversation filled with good laughs, fishing tips, and the bond that comes from years of adventures together. #798 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/798

#797 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/797  Presented by: Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, San Juan Rodworks, Intrepid Camp Gear Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        If you’ve ever dreamed to fly fish Belize on your terms to chase bonefish and permit, this episode is for you. We’re heading to Ambergris Caye where Mary Alice Hoppe and her husband Chris created Iguana House, a beachfront lodge built with DIY anglers in mind. In this episode, Mary Alice shares what it’s really like to run a fishing lodge, how to plan your trip for tailing permit and migrating tarpon, and why a golf cart might just be your most valuable gear item. We also dive into what to expect on the island, from fishing conditions to local adventures like snorkeling Belize’s incredible reef systems. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/797      

796 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/796 Presented by:  Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions Would you rather compete at the World Fly Fishing Championships or spend a season guiding on the San Juan River? Today’s guest made that leap from Team USA gold medalist to full-time San Juan River guide. He’s dialing in tiny size 26 midges, handling 40-fish days, and teaching anglers how to hook 20-inch browns on a 6X tippet. By the end of this episode, you’ll learn how to fish the San Juan's tailouts, why ant falls spark some of the river’s best dry fly action, and what it really takes to catch fish year-round on one of America’s most technical tailwaters. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/796

#795 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/795  Presented by: Pescador on the Fly  We head to western Montana with Jake Hensley to talk about Missoula fly fishing. With nearly 20 years of guiding experience, Jake breaks down the essentials of fishing the Bitterroot, Clark Fork, and Rock Creek - three of Missoula’s most iconic rivers. We cover how to rig for high water, why dry-dropper setups are so effective, and what makes floating Rock Creek such a game-changer. Whether you’re new to the area or planning your tenth trip, Jake’s got real tips to help you fish smarter and enjoy more of what Missoula has to offer. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/795 

#794 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/794  Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Visit Helena, MT, San Juan Rodworks, Togiak River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        In this episode, we take a heartfelt journey into the life of one of steelhead fishing's most influential figures, Lani Waller. Through his brother Jack Waller, we hear untold stories about Lani’s early years, his deep connection to rivers, and the life-changing events that shaped him. From a childhood trauma that led him to the fly rod to the plane crash that forever changed his path, Jack shares what made Lani more than just a great angler. He was a true steward of the sport. If you’ve ever been moved by a cast, a river, or a story, this one’s for you. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/794       

793 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/793 Presented by:  Jackson Hole Fly Company, Pescador on the Fly, Four Wheel Campers,  Smitty's Fly Box When you think of Alaska, you probably picture places like Bristol Bay or the Kenai Peninsula. But tucked away in southeast Alaska is the Tongass National Forest, a wild, untouched rainforest full of remote streams where you could be the only angler for miles around. Sounds pretty awesome, right? Kevin Main from Tongass on the Fly spends his days guiding fly anglers through some of the most untouched rivers of Southeast Alaska. In this episode, find out why fly patterns matter more than just covering ground in certain times of the year, why tides pretty much run the show up there, what it takes to chase steelhead and sea-run cutthroat in spots only reachable by mothership, and why a Stikine River float might be one of the most underrated trips in Alaska.   Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/793

#792 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/792  Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors     Join us in one of our biggest episodes as we journey into a world that combines the thrill of the outdoors with a passion for conservation. This episode offers an intriguing dialogue featuring Craig Mathews and Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia Founder and an iconic figure in the outdoor world; unraveling their love for fly fishing, their unique backstories, and their shared principles around the sport and beyond. This is a replay episode from 2023 and also one of our most downloaded episodes so it's great to listen to it again. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/792      

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/791 Presented By: Pescador on the Fly, Patagonia, Mountain Waters Resort, Intrepid Camp Gear. Sponsors: Https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors On this episode, we sit down with Wesley Hodges, a decorated military veteran turned premier fly fishing and hunting guide in Virginia. Wesley shares the wild journey that led him from a cane pole in Texas to discovering fly fishing at a Boy Scout camp, to a life-changing decision made in a tiki bar in Ecuador. What followed was the creation of Virginia’s first dedicated fly fishing and hunting lodge—an operation that now runs year-round across some of the most remote and productive water systems in the Eastern U.S. Right now, you'll discover why Virginia may be the "New West" for fly fishing, how to rethink your entire approach to trip planning, and the subtle techniques that make all the difference when targeting trophy Smallmouth bass. Wesley unpacks the essence of crafting full-circle outdoor experiences—one that fuses drift boats, do

#790 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/790 Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors We're bringing back one of the classics for this special summer re-release — an early episode that quickly became a listener favorite. Originally Episode 13, this conversation with Michigan guide Kevin Feenstra is packed with insights on swinging flies for steelhead on the Muskegon River. Kevin breaks down his approach to fishing year-round, how he reads the water, and what makes the Muskegon such a unique place to chase steelhead. He also shares some of his thoughts on fly patterns, presentation, and how fish respond to changing water temps. If you’re into steelhead, two-hand rods, or just love hearing from someone who truly understands their home water, this one’s worth another listen. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/790

789 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/789 This summer, we’re diving back into the archives to bring you a classic episode: Episode 334 with the one and only Henry Winkler. Henry, the actor, author, producer, and passionate angler, joins us to talk about fly fishing, his legendary career, and his inspiring life story. We dive into his experience turning down Grease, landing his role on HBO’s Barry, and how he’s thrived while living with dyslexia. Plus, we explore his books, movies, and the surprising ways fly fishing and acting connect. Get ready for a conversation full of heart, humor, and wisdom. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/789  

#788 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/788 Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors This summer, we’re bringing back a favorite from the archive—originally released as episode 348, this conversation with Norman Maktima is packed with stillwater insights. Norman, a Team USA fly fishing competitor and guide at High Desert Angler, shared a deep dive into stillwater strategies—from euro-nymphing tactics to lake structure, fly line selection, and subtle boat positioning tips. Whether you're working leeches, chironomids, or just trying to improve your game, Norman brings the technical know-how with a grounded, fishy vibe. We also hear about his Native American heritage and what it was like going from youth team standout to the world competition stage. If you're into stillwaters or want to sharpen your nymph game, this one is worth a second listen. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/788