Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/598 Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Skwala, Togens Fly Shop Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors In this episode, we dive into the rich history of the Golden Gate Casting Club with Jim Dawson, the club's resident historian. Discover the revolutionary impact of a young orphan who reshaped fly casting technology, linking his innovations directly to the tech you use today, like your iPhone. Jim shares captivating stories from the club’s past, including tales about legendary figures like Jimmy Green, whose techniques and inventions propelled fly fishing into the future. Tune in to uncover the roots of modern fly casting and get inspired by the techniques that top anglers have used to dominate the sport. Episode Chapters (0:00:05) – Introduction to the Golden Gate Casting Club Exploring the connection between historical casting champions and modern fly casting technology, with an introduction to the episode's focus on the Golden Gate Casting Club. (0

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/597   Presented By: TroutRoutes, Guide Book, Skwala, FishHound Expeditions  Are you interested to know how to target one of the craziest hatches that will make national headlines this year? Today, Dave Zielinski is back on the podcast to give his best tips on fishing the Cicada hatch, including how to predict when and where to find them and how to have success when you're out on the water. Time for some cicada madness with a sprinkle of boat building! Show Notes with David Zielinski on Cicada Madness.  1:27 - It's great to have David back on the show after our last episode where we delved into boat building. Today, though, we're shifting gears to focus on cicadas. 5:24 - Dave Zielinski's book, Cicada Madness,  explores the timing, fishing techniques, and patterns essential for understanding and enjoying epic cicada emergences. Periodical cicadas emerge in synchronized cycles, akin to mayfly hatches Cicada Madness: The Rare Cicada Emergence of 2024 10:31 - This year, a rare

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/596 Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures, TroutRoutes, Jackson Hole Fly Company Try to imagine what a 200-pound shark hooked up on the end of your fly rod and jumping 20 feet out of the water would feel like. Hooking sharks on the fly is what today's guest specializes in. In this episode, Conway Bowman is going to take us into his wild world of mako shark fly fishing. Find out where to find these fish, how to pop your fly to these giants, and the thrilling experience of fighting a top predator on a fly rod. Show Notes with Conway Bowman on Mako Shark Fly Fishing.  2:00 - Conway Bowman's passion for fishing began at a young age. He grew up around the water and spent summers in Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains. His journey into fly fishing for Mako Sharks began when a friend suggested it, leading Conway to explore offshore waters until he finally hooked his first Mako. 7:55 - Despite not seeing himself as a rockstar in fly fishing, Conway's focus on targeting Mako Sharks has

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/595 Join us in this episode of In the Bucket where Dano Pendygrasse and Darcy Bacha, renowned snowboarding photographers, dive into the vibrant world of fly fishing through their lenses. Discover how their decades of experience in snowboarding have shaped their approach to capturing the serene beauty of fly fishing. Dano and Darcy discuss the transition from the adrenaline of snowboarding shoots to the tranquil riversides, reflecting on the artistry and patience required in both disciplines. They share personal stories and professional insights on making passions into careers, the challenges of photography in extreme conditions, and the unexpected joys of exploring new waters. Whether you're a fan of their snowboarding work or looking to improve your fishing photography skills, this episode offers a unique perspective on embracing change and finding new passions. Episode Chapters (0:00:05) – Introduction to Guests - Introduction of Dano Pendygrasse and Darcy Bacha, discussi

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/594 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge, Northern Rockies Adventures, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Togens Fly Shop Have you ever wondered what it would be like to reel in a massive tarpon? Or perhaps you're curious about the critical factors in preserving bonefish, tarpon, and permit populations? Today, we dive deep into the conservation with Mark Rehbein from the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Join us as we unravel why these three species are important for conservation efforts and explore the key habitats that need protection. Show Notes with Mark Rehbein on  Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. 2:40 - Mark Rehbein started fly fishing at a young age due to his father's involvement in making Potomac River bass fishing videos. This project led them to connect with Lefty Kreh. His journey eventually took him to Alaska, where he lived in a tent and worked at a fly shop. Mark Rehbein's Journey to Bonefish & Tarpon Trust 09:25 - After following BTT for years and growing up with a love f

Link to Jackson Hole Fly Company Blog Post:  https://jacksonholeflycompany.com/blogs/fly-fishing-tips/essential-fly-fishing-checklist Link to Cleaning your Fly Line:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpVPrbpj7yQ As spring approaches, fly fishing enthusiasts are prompted to prepare their gear for the upcoming season. This period of anticipation necessitates a thorough check and maintenance of fly fishing equipment, including rods, reels, lines, fly boxes, and other essentials, to ensure they're ready for the first hatch.  This episode emphasizes the importance of inspecting and cleaning fly rods and reels for wear or damage, checking and replacing fly lines, organizing fly boxes, inspecting waders and boots for leaks or wear, and reviewing essential and comfort items such as vests, tools, apparel, and creating a backup kit.  Additionally, it suggests updating licenses, researching local fishing conditions, and practicing casting techniques to shake off any rust. The detailed checklist includes examining rods f

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/593  Presented by: Northern Rockies Adventures, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Visit Helena, MT, TroutRoutes Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  Join us as we dive deep into fly fishing Belize with Damien Nurre, the guiding force behind Blue Horizon Lodge, renowned for its world-class fly fishing and unbeatable local guides. Damien shares his transformation from a snowboarding enthusiast to a fly fishing guide and lodge manager in one of the most coveted angling destinations on the planet. This episode is a treasure trove for fly anglers dreaming of the ultimate Grand Slam, offering insider tips on tackling Belize's elusive permit, bonefish, and tarpon. Whether you're plotting your next fishing adventure, Damien's insights and stories will transport you to the abundant waters of Belize, promising an experience you won't want to miss. Episode Chapters with Damien Nurre on Fly Fishing Belize 1:35 - Damien Nurre shares his journey from being a snowboarding enthusiast in the M

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/592 Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory In this episode of "Traveled," we journey with Oliver White to the breathtaking South Fork Lodge in Eastern Idaho, where the legacy of fly fishing is as deep as the river's own stories. From revealing why celebrities like Jimmy Kimmel and Huey Lewis are drawn to the serenity and challenge of the South Fork, to exploring how the lodge stands as a beacon of conservation and community after being rebuilt from nature's wrath, Oliver opens up about the transformative power of connecting with nature through fly fishing. We talk about the tales of big Browns, the perfect timing for fly hatches, and the unique blend of luxury and wilderness that makes South Fork Lodge a must-visit destination. Whether you're an avid angler or someone curious about the lure of fly fishing, this episode promises insights into making your next fishing trip unforgettable, underscored by Oliver's passion for sustainable angling and the pursuit of the catch.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/591  Presented by: Visit Helena, MT Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  In this episode, we chat with Justin Waayenberg from Adipose Boatworks to delve into the groundbreaking world of resin infusion in drift boats, offering anglers the ultimate guide to navigating the transformative trends in boat durability and weight. As we unravel the secrets behind choosing the perfect drift boat for your adventures on the Missouri River and beyond, listeners are treated to invaluable safety tips, ensuring an unmatched fly fishing experience. This episode promises to equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to take your fly fishing journey to new heights, all while emphasizing conservation and the deep-rooted passion that connects us to the rivers we cherish.   Episode Chapters with Justin Waayenberg on the Future of Drift Boats 3:05 - Justin discusses Adipose Boatworks' dedication to producing high-quality, top-tier boats, comparing their brand's quality to well-known comp

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/590 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge  Have you ever heard someone say, you need to twitch your fly or you need to twitch it more? Have you heard about jigging or using jigs in fly fishing and how this is such an effective method today? We bring both of these together as we jump back into Alaska and Northern Bristol Bay. Jeremy Freisz is here to share the twitching jig method and why pink is the only color you need for Togiak River success. Learn how to plan your trip and the exact tips you need for success in Alaska this year. Show Notes with Jeremy Freisz on Tactics for Togiak River Success.  02:00 - Jeremy Freisz shares his journey of discovering fly fishing later in life, initially influenced by his family's outdoor activities. Over the years, Jeremy's passion grew, leading to summers in Alaska at Togiak River Lodge and even starting to guide for Red's Fly Shop. Check out our episode on Reds Fly Shop with Joe Rotter. Jeremy recently bought a customized Bighorn Skiff fro

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/589 Presented By: Waters West, Togiak River Lodge, Skwala Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Ed Few, a distinguished craftsman of custom bamboo fly rods, shares his extraordinary journey from traditional boatmaking in England to mastering the art of fly fishing with hand-built gear. Delving into the essence of fly fishing's heritage, Ed brings to life the thrill of using bamboo rods, silk lines, and horsehair leaders, all while chasing steelhead in the Great Lakes. Listeners will be transported back in time, learning not just about the meticulous process of creating these traditional tools, but also how they can elevate their own fishing experiences. Ed's stories of craftsmanship, passion, and the pursuit of the perfect catch with historic gear promise to inspire and ignite a curiosity for the timeless art of fly fishing. Topics Discussed in This Episode: The transition from traditional boat building to crafting bamboo fly rods The unique allure of fishing with han

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/588  Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/troutroutes  In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of the Northeast, where the wilderness rivals the vast national parks of the West. Join us as we follow the adventures of David Brotzman, who embarks on a journey through Adirondacks fly fishing, armed with the newest gear and a van life setup that brings him closer to nature. David shares invaluable insights on preparing for a remote trip, the allure of van life for modern anglers, and the conservation efforts vital to preserving these pristine waters. Get ready to explore hidden fly fishing treasures in the East and learn how to make your next outdoor adventure successful and sustainable. Episode Chapters with David Brotzman on Adirondacks Fly Fishing 2:00 - David shares his relatively recent journey into fly fishing, a passion ignited during the COVID-19 lockdown. With a background in outdoor activities and fond memories of spending summers in the Adirondacks during his yout

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/587 Presented By:  Northern Rockies Adventures, FishHound Expeditions, Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Company Have you ever experienced the frustration of a dry fly being swirled up by a fish but not taken? Or struggled to keep your dry fly afloat on the water? Today is your lucky day because we have Evan Bottcher, owner of the Hungry Trout, to guide us in fly fishing the Au Sable with Dry Flies. Get ready to dive into the beauty of the Au Sable River in the Adirondacks as Evan shares three crucial tips to help you land more fish while fishing with dry flies this year, especially in pocket water. In this episode, Evan will guide us through selecting the right fly size, determining the ideal distance from the bank for fishing, and mastering skittering a fly to entice both the fly and the fish. Show Notes with Evan Bottcher on Fly Fishing the Au Sable.  02:00 - Evan Bottcher shares his childhood memories growing up on the property along the Au Sable River. His family purch

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/586 Presented By:  Smitty's Fly Box Do you want to level up your fly box without draining your wallet? Today Steve Smith of Smitty’s Fly Box joins us to share his secrets for choosing the right flies without breaking the bank. Steve shares his top-selling dry flies, nymphs, and stillwater patterns, so you can plan a bit easier for that next trip. This is another big one with Steve! Show Notes with Steve Smith on Choosing the Right Fly.  3:44 – RoundRocks is a longstanding family business, with over 30 years of experience in producing quality flies for fly shops and sporting goods stores nationwide. On the other hand, Smitty’s Fly Box offers a unique monthly subscription service, providing anglers with handpicked assortments of flies and accessories tailored to their fishing locations. Additionally, they offer beginner and intermediate tying boxes, allowing enthusiasts to learn new patterns and tie their flies with expert guidance.  5:19 – Steve mentions Coach Knight’s pas

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/585B Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors In this episode of "In The Bucket," we dive into the captivating world of fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest, a region celebrated for its majestic landscapes and challenging steelhead fishing. Joined by seasoned anglers Dax Messett and Scott Baker Mcgarva, listeners are treated to an engaging discussion filled with expert casting tips, memorable fish stories, and practical advice for making the most out of guided fly fishing trips. Whether you're a veteran angler or just starting out, Dax and Scott's insights into the nuances of successfully landing steelhead, the evolution of fly fishing gear, and the importance of conservation efforts offer invaluable lessons that promise to enrich your fly fishing experience and ignite your passion for the sport. Topics Discussed in the Episode The unique draw and challenge of steelhead fishing in the Pacific Northwest. Transitioning from guiding to tackle sales and what it teaches about

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/585 Presented By:  Waters West, Northern Rockies Adventures, Togens Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions Have you heard of the Gaspé Peninsula and thought maybe it was out of your reach for a trip? Are you worried that your spey game isn't at a high enough level to hook a salmon? Today, we have David Bishop to share tips for success and three key takeaways that will ensure you not only can do this trip but have a chance at hooking an Atlantic Salmon. Learn about fly speed, when to use dry flies versus wet flies, and uncover a fly pattern you may not have seen before. Discover how to recognize a take and why David recommends using 6lb and 8lb tippets. Show Notes with David Bishop on Gaspe Peninsula Atlantic Salmon.  01:38 - David Bishop delves into the unique challenge of fishing for Atlantic salmon and why it's often seen as an intimidating species: Species Specificity: Atlantic salmon are highly dependent on water conditions and fish behavior, unlike other species that may fee

Show Notes;  https://wetflyswing.com/getting-started-with-fly-fishing-the-best-tips-from-600-podcast-episodes/ Fly fishing might seem daunting to beginners, but with insights from over 600 podcast interviews, today’s episode with Dave, the host of the Wet Fly Swing podcast, simplifies the process. From a powerful story of failure and frustration on a Montana trout stream to practical tips from experienced anglers, we've got you covered. Episode Summary: [0:03] Dave introduces the episode by addressing the common barriers to starting fly fishing and promises to provide a clear path for beginners. [0:50] The host shares his background in fly fishing, his journey with the Wet Fly Swing podcast, and the aim of the current solo episode. [1:34] The episode promises to offer practical tips for beginners, including insights from an interview with Brian from Mad River Outfitters. [2:15] A memorable story from a senior trip to Montana illustrates the frustrations that can come with learning fly fishing, setting the sta

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/584   Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/troutroutes     In this episode, McKenna Hulslander takes us on an exhilarating journey through her most recent backcountry fly fishing trip, offering insider tips and thrilling stories from the wild. McKenna reveals how she combines technology, like the TroutRoutes app, with traditional angling wisdom to enhance safety, navigation, and fish finding on remote trips. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, McKenna's insights on preparing for the unexpected, choosing the right gear, and conserving our precious aquatic ecosystems will inspire you to tackle your next fishing adventure with confidence and respect for nature. Join us as McKenna shares the highs and lows of her journey, from exhilarating catches to surviving a plane crash, all while showcasing the beauty and challenges of wilderness fishing. Episode Chapters with McKenna Hulslander on Backcountry Fly Fishing 1:22 - With a childhood rooted in the outdoor tradit

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/583  Presented by: Skwala, Northern Rockies Adventures Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        In this episode, we chat with Brownie Liles, a seasoned guide with over 25 years of experience and the innovative mind behind Blue Ridge Boatworks. Brownie takes us on a journey of drift boat building and the scenic rivers of East Tennessee, sharing insights into his unique designs crafted specifically for the challenges and joys of fly fishing in the region. Listeners will dive into fly fishing conservation, the thrill of chasing fish in East Tennessee's vibrant waters, and how Brownie's passion for guiding and boat building led to creating a drift boat that blends tradition with cutting-edge design. Episode Chapters with Brownie Liles on Drift Boat Building 01:37 - Brownie shares his transition from whitewater kayaking to fly fishing in the mid-90s, sparked by a Christmas gift from his sister—a fly rod that ignited his passion for fly fishing. This newfound obsession

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/582 Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures Unlock the secrets of fly fishing in the untouched waters of Northern British Columbia with our guest, Daniel, who shares a treasure trove of knowledge, from preparations for the fishing season to detailed accounts of conservation efforts. Immerse yourself in tales of the vast wilderness that's home to flourishing populations of rainbow trout and Arctic Grayling, all accessible from the cozy confines of our family-owned lodge. We delve into the heart of the season's potential, examining the effects of snow conditions on spring runoff and the ensuing strategies for the best angling experiences. Experience the allure of personalized fishing expeditions, where the thrill of the catch is just the beginning. We chat about the unique blend of intimacy and adventure that comes with a stay at our lodge, where floatplanes expand the realm of possibility and every angler's dream is within reach. From warming up with abundant smaller catch