Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Phil #735 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/735 Presented By:  Four Wheel Campers, Pescador on the Fly, Yellowstone Teton Territory In this episode of The Littoral Zone with Phil Rowley, Tom Jarman, a top competitive fly angler and winner of the 2024 Australian Fly Fishing Championships, breaks down his best strategies, tactics, and flies for fishing Australian lakes and beyond. Episode Chapters with Tom Jarman on Fly Fishing Australian Lakes Tom was born in Melbourne, Australia, but he spent part of his childhood in England, where he first picked up a fishing rod. When his family returned to Australia in 2000, his passion for the sport grew and he got into competitive fly fishing at 15.  He later studied environmental science, while spending summers guiding in Tasmania. Now at 31, Tom has built a life around fly fishing—guiding, coaching, and sharing his knowledge with others. Tom started his YouTube channel to showcase the incredible fishing in Victoria. His videos highlight both river and lake fishing.  

#734 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/734   Presented by: FishHound Expeditions Did you know that large-scale trawling is wiping out Alaska’s wild salmon, halibut, and other key species? In this episode, we talk with Adam Cuthriell of Fishhound Expeditions about the bycatch crisis—where thousands of fish are caught and discarded every year. Adam breaks down how trawlers operate, the impact on fisheries, and what we can do to fight back. From signing petitions to making smarter seafood choices, we all have a role to play. Tune in to learn how you can help protect Alaska’s fish and fishing communities. Episode Chapters with Adam Cuthriell on The Bycatch Crisis The Fight Against Bycatch: What You Need to Know Alaska’s fish populations are under serious threat, and commercial trawlers are a big part of the problem. Adam Cuthriell breaks down the devastating impact of trawling, where massive ships drag enormous nets, destroying everything in their path. The biggest target? Pollock—the fish found in fast food s

#733 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/733 Presented By: Grand Teton Fly Fishing, Heated Core, Stonefly Nets Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What makes streamer fishing so different from dry flies and nymphing? Is it about imitating baitfish, triggering aggression, or just throwing the biggest fly you can? Today, we’re bringing back Gunnar Brammer, streamer expert and fly designer, to break down predatory fish behavior, how to cast oversized flies, and why natural materials like bucktail still outshine synthetics. Gunnar shares his five essential streamer fishing rules, the biggest mistakes beginners make, and how to design flies that fish actually want to eat. Plus, we talk about casting the right fly line, why fast-action rods aren’t always the answer, and his new Articulated 2.0 streamer design. If you’ve ever wanted to fish bigger flies, target aggressive fish, and rethink everything you know about streamers, this one’s for you. Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

#732 Show Notes:https://wetflyswing.com/732   Presented By: Grand Teton Fly Fishing, Four Wheel Campers, Pescador on the Fly In this episode, Chad Johnson, a legendary guide on the White River, shares his best tips for targeting big browns with streamers. You’ll hear a classic Dave Whitlock story, learn when the big fish bite, and find out why Chad still loves the area—even after the famous Dally's Fly Shop moved on.  Plus, there’s a big secret dropping today about a brand-new podcast. Don’t miss it!   Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/732  

#731B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/731B Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory   The West is home to some incredible bug hatches, but only a few can match the size and intensity of the great salmon fly hatch. Today, we're diving into the magic of this hatch with Justin Adams of the South Fork Lodge. We will talk about the Middle Fork, the Salmon River, and even the Grand Canyon. Find out how Justin puts a 90-degree bend in the leader to fish nymphs more effectively. Plus, he'll share the #1 thing he tells his clients and why fish on the South Fork have scuffed noses! Episode Chapters with Justin Adams on the South Fork Lodge 04:54 - Justin started as a part-time guide while working for the Forest Service for 10 years. It was around 2018 when he went all in and started guiding over 100 days a season.   Fishing the South Fork Justin says the South Fork is one of the best-known fisheries in the region. It holds a lot of fish per mile and can handle plenty of fishing pressure while still producing grea

#731 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/731   Presented by: Togiak River Lodge, On DeMark Lodge, Mountain Waters Resort Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   Switching from freshwater to saltwater fly fishing isn’t always easy, but today’s guest makes it simple. In this episode, we talk with guide George Sylvestre about fly fishing Massachusetts and the flats of Cape Cod, the Tailwaters of the Northeast, and how to make a smooth transition between fresh and saltwater. George shares his top three differences between the two, plus expert tips on casting, reading the water, and targeting fish in both environments. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights to improve your game. Episode Chapters with George Sylvestre on Fly Fishing Massachusetts Mastering the Transition: From Trout Streams to the Saltwater Flats Many fly anglers start on freshwater rivers and lakes, but making the switch to saltwater fly fishing comes with some challenges. In this episod

#730 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/730 Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Four Wheel Campers, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Togiak River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What if we could bring back wild salmon and steelhead to the rivers where they once thrived? With historic runs in the Columbia and Snake Rivers plummeting, it's time to ask—what can we do to reverse the damage? Today, we chat with Rick Williams, fisheries biologist, master fly casting instructor, and co-author of Managed Extinction, a follow-up to the groundbreaking book Salmon Without Rivers. Rick breaks down the four Snake River dams, the barriers to fish recovery, and what needs to happen to restore wild salmon and steelhead populations. Plus, we dive into the hatchery debate, what history has taught us about failed management strategies, and why he still has hope for the future of these fish. If you care about the future of wild salmon and steelhead, this episode is for you. Let’s get into it! Show Notes: https://wetf

#729 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/729 Presented By: Pescador on the Fly, Four Wheel Campers, TroutRoutes      Stillwater fishing has always been close to my heart, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and misconceptions. I’m excited to have Denny Rickards on today’s episode because we'll debunk some stillwater fly fishing myths.  Denny is one of the most knowledgeable stillwater anglers out there, and he’s here to share his step-by-step approach to finding big fish in lakes. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a solid framework for what to do (and what not to do) when fishing stillwaters. You're in for a big treat today because you'll learn how to know when fish are moving, when they're not, and when they're feeding. You're also going to find out why you should be casting to the edge of the lake, how to find the exact depth for holding fish, and why fish take on the pause. Show Notes with Denny Rickards on Stillwater Fly Fishing Myths It's been six years since we had Denny on Episode

#728 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/728   Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   In this episode, Jeff Liskay, aka the “Great Lakes Dude,” is joined by longtime outdoor writer D’Arcy Egan. With over 50 years of experience covering fishing and conservation in Ohio, D’Arcy shares his knowledge of Lake Erie’s transformation, the steelhead boom, and the history of fishery management in the region. From early days fishing for perch to breaking conservation stories, this episode is packed with insights into one of the most underrated fisheries in the country. Episode Chapters with D'Arcy Egan and Jeff Liskay on Great Lakes Fishing & Conservation What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Lake Erie’s fishery evolved from pollution to world-class walleye and steelhead fishing. The role of conservation efforts in restoring species like bald eagles and yellow perch. The impact of invasive species and commercial fishing on Great Lakes fisheries. The best spots and techniques for targeting steelhead, smallmou

#727 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/727 Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Heated Core Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What is it about steelhead that makes them so addictive to chase? Is it the perfect swing, the surface take, or the mystery of where they’ll show up next? For those who pursue them, it’s more than fishing—it’s a way of life. Time to get in the bucket... Today, we’re joined by Adrian Cortes & Richard Harrington, two passionate steelhead anglers, to dive into the art of dry fly steelheading, the traditions of fly tying, and the deeper meaning behind chasing these fish. We talk about bamboo rods, classic patterns, and why swinging flies for steelhead is as much about mindset as it is about technique. Plus, we talk about mentorship in fly fishing, river etiquette, and how the culture of steelheading continues to evolve. If you love the history, artistry, and thrill of chasing steelhead, this one’s for you.  Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/727

#726 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/726 Presented By: Waters West, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Pescador on the Fly Do you know where the most remote and unattainable Fly Fishing Destination is for Spey.  Today's guest Max Kantor, from Guideline Fly Fishing, will share the tips on fishing these storied waters so you have more skills for your home water. Max Kantor from Guideline USA is here to take us into one of the largest fly fishing brands in Europe.  We find out how he fishes for Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead and some of the differences between the two.  And we travel around the world to the other best places to catch pacific salmon and steelhead. Click play below if you want to listen to the podcast with Max! 03:18 - Max talks about his first connection to Guideline and the story of how it all came to be. The Guideline Elevation Fly Rod Series.   05:20 - The Ponoi River in Russia is a famous hard to reach river know for the greatest Atlantic Salmon fishing in the world.  Max describes how he guided ther

Traveled #25 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/725B Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory What makes the Golden Triangle one of the most sought-after fly fishing destinations for anglers? With legendary rivers like the Henry’s Fork, the Yellowstone, and the Snake, this region spans Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming—offering some of the best trout fishing on the planet. Today, we’re heading out to the Golden Triangle of fly fishing with Lindsay Szofran—Team USA angler, guide, and world championship competitor—to dig into fishing the Yellowstone region, nymphing tactics, and how to prepare for a world-class fly fishing competition. Lindsay shares her go-to strategies for fishing the longest undammed river in the U.S., the best times to hit these waters, and how she approaches trout spey for both competition and fun. Plus, we get an inside look at Team USA’s preparation for the upcoming Fly Fishing World Championships happening right here in the US this year. If you’ve ever wanted to fish the heart of the West,

#725 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/725 Presented By:   Grand Teton Fly Fishing, FishHound Expeditions,  Heated Core In part one of How Lakes Work, Brian and Phil explained lake classification and the key zones we should focus on. In part two, we’ll explore how lakes change throughout the seasons. Brian will break down what happens each season, how it impacts fish behavior, and where you should be fishing. Understanding these will help you know where to fish and when.   The Seasons of a Lake: How They Impact Fishing Fall  06:15 - As temperatures drop, lakes go through fall turnover. This happens when surface water cools to match the temperature of deeper water. Wind aids in mixing the lake from top to bottom, spreading oxygen. The mixing stirs up debris and gases like methane. This makes conditions less ideal for fish.   Fall happens in three stages: early, mid, and late. As the water gets colder, fish move into shallower areas to feed.  In early fall, they stay in deeper water (15 -18 feet).  By mid-fal

#724 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/724  Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  Streamer fishing for trout is all about movement, and few people understand it better than Tommy Lynch. In this episode, Tommy breaks down his four-step framework for fishing streamers, explains the difference between suicide fish and would-be predators, and shares why most anglers aren’t getting the full potential out of their sink tips. If you’re looking to up your game on big browns in small creeks, this episode is packed with tips you won’t want to miss. Episode Chapters with Tommy Lynch on Streamer Fishing for Trout How to Fish Streamers Like a Jerkbait for Big Browns Streamer fishing isn’t just about casting and stripping. It’s about making your fly move like a wounded baitfish—something trout can’t resist. Tommy explains that the best way to do this is by mimicking the action of a jerkbait, specifically the black and gold No. 13 Rapala, which has been deadly on brown trout for

#723 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/723 Presented By: TroutRoutes, Grand Teton Fly Fishing, Pescador on the Fly, Yellowstone Teton Territory Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What makes the Catskills one of the most legendary fly fishing destinations in the US? With historic rivers like the East and West Branch of the Delaware, the Beaver Kill, and the Willowemoc, this region is the birthplace of American dry fly fishing—and it still offers some of the best trout waters in the country today. In this episode, John Francis of Trout Town Flies—local guide and new drift boat owner—takes us through the seasons of the Catskills, sharing his best strategies for winter nymphing, midge fishing, and adjusting your setup for cold-water trout. Plus, we’re diving into Bug Week, one of the most exciting times of the year for dry fly fishing, and how to time your trip for the best action. If you’ve ever wanted to fish the birthplace of American fly fishing, this is your chance to learn from a local. Let’s get

#722 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/722 Presented By:  Grand Teton Fly Fishing Josh Gallivan, head guide at Grand Teton Fly Fishing, is here to share his expertise on the streams and lakes around the Grand Teton area. He’ll talk about how he started at the Jack Dennis Fly Shop, share some great stories, and dive into his techniques for sight fishing snake river cutthroat and fishing stillwater lakes. Plus, he’ll tell us about an incredible mothership trip that’s not to be missed. About Josh Gallivan Josh’s fly fishing journey started in high school when he got a job at the Jack Dennis Outdoor Shop in Jackson. While working there, he met fantastic people like Jeff Currier and Scott Sanchez. He remembers watching the guides come in after their long days on the river, sunburned but happy. That’s when he realized he wanted to be a guide, not just work in the shop. After three years, he switched to guiding, and it’s become his true passion. Check out our podcast episode with Jack Dennis! Episode Chapters wi

Save your Spot for the Togiak Spey Trip:  https://wetflyswing.com/alaska Enter the Giveaway here:  https://wetflyswing.com/giveaway In this episode, Dave goes solo to share the top 14 tips from past Spey episodes for Chinook Salmon.  You will discover how to hook up with more salmon on the swing this year!

#720 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/720 Presented By:  Togiak River Lodge We’re heading to Alaska to chase King Salmon in one of the last great strongholds for Chinook. Today, we’re joined by Floyd Carter, a passionate guide at Togiak River Lodge and beyond, who’s sharing expert tips on swinging for Chinook on a spey. He’ll take us back to his first season at Togiak, the unique spey camp they set up, and the lessons learned along the way. Here’s what we'll cover today:  The only two lines and flies you need for Togiak How to get your cast out even with zero room for a D-loop Why you don’t have to be a mega hucker to land big Kings Quick Reminder... We just launched a giveaway for a trip to Togiak River Lodge! Enter now at wetflyswing.com/giveaway for a chance to win. We’ll announce the winner next week! About Floyd Carter Floyd grew up fishing in Colorado but got hooked on swinging flies after a trip to Seattle. A chance encounter with Dave Mccoy of Emerald Water Anglers led to his first spey casting exp

#719 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/719  Presented by: FishHound Expeditions In this episode, we take a unique journey into the world of bush flying in Alaska with Ariel Tweto—pilot, adventurer, and star of Flying Wild Alaska. Ariel shares what it was like growing up in a family of pilots, the thrill of her first appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman, and even a memorable drink with Harrison Ford. Beyond the adventures, we dive into a more serious topic—suicide prevention in Native Alaskan communities, a cause close to Ariel’s heart. From broken bones to big dreams, this episode is packed with stories of resilience, passion, and making the most of every moment. Episode Chapters with Ariel Tweto 4:43 - Ariel shares that flying has been an integral part of her life since birth, as her entire family is deeply involved in aviation. Her grandfather was one of the first Native American pilots to start an airline, founding Ryan Air in Alaska. Both her parents and extended family are pilots, and she

#718 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/718 Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Pescador on the Fly, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Togiak River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors What makes Minnesota one of the most diverse fly fishing destinations in the country? From chasing wild steelhead on the North Shore and brook trout in the spring creeks of the Driftless, this state offers an incredible range of opportunities for anglers. Today, Carl Haensel—author of Fly Fishing Minnesota, fly fishing guide, and manager at Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo—breaks down everything you need to know about fly fishing in Minnesota. We’ll cover the best times to fish, top rivers and lakes, and the species you can target, from lake trout and smallmouth bass to muskies and migratory browns. Carl also shares insights on conservation efforts, the history of Lake Superior’s fisheries, and what makes Minnesota’s public access some of the best in the country. Plus, we get a look inside the Great Waters Fly Fishing Exp