Advertise on podcast: Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/572 Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures, Visit Helena, MT, Skwala, TroutRoutes  Ready to experience the thrill of sight fishing for redfish? Would you like to visit one of the most natural and diverse barrier islands in the world? We've got the Bay Flats Lodge crew on the podcast to share some tips on sight fishing for redfish and what makes this part of the Texas coast so special. Today you will hear from six of the most passionate guides in Texas and the tips they use to catch redfish by sight. You'll find out how to cast in the wind and why you need to practice your backcast cast. Show Notes with Bay Flats Lodge Crew on Sight Fishing For Redfish.  1:43 - The Bay Flats Lodge specializes in boutique fly fishing experiences, particularly in the unique landscape of the Texas coast, offering access to vast marshlands, creeks, and backcountry areas. The Guides of Bay Flats Lodge Capt. Dylan Murley 5:23 - Dylan is from Bastrop, Texas. His journey into guiding was initially sparked by fishing trips with family and friends along the Texas coast. Transitioning to guiding in South Padre and eventually joining the team in Sea Drift, Dylan emphasizes the diverse and captivating nature of the fishery in this area. Tip: Dylan emphasizes the importance of polarized sunglasses for spotting fish and advises beginners to focus on looking through the water rather than just at the surface. Capt. Matt Lough 7:55 - Matt, a native Texan from East Texas, discovered fly fishing at a young age and has been pursuing his passion ever since. While he initially focused on trout fishing, he transitioned to guiding for redfish about three months ago and has found a deep love for sight fishing. "I love trout fishing, but once I discovered the redfish game, it's just something I never want to leave." Capt. Tyler Brown 9:20 - Tyler is originally from Kerrville, Texas, where he grew up fishing in the headwaters of the Guadalupe River. Despite not yet catching a redfish in the Guadalupe River, he expresses interest in doing so, considering it a future goal. Capt. Dane Scott 10:19 - Dane is originally from Pueblo, Colorado, where he grew up fishing in western Colorado due to his grandfather owning a fly shop. Six years ago, he made his way to the coast and immediately fell in love with fishing for redfish, eventually becoming a guide in the area for the past four years. Capt. Mike Gaglianese 11:30 - Mike is originally from upstate New Y ork, specifically Utica, and later moved to Gunnison, Colorado, where he met Dane. They became roommates and began guiding together. Now in their fourth year on the coast, Mike shares his love for coastal living, enjoying the seasonal split between the coast and the mountains. Fly Fishing at Bay Flats Lodge  12:38 - Chris says that the Bay Flats Lodge offers fly fishing opportunities year-round, with no closed season. The unique location, driven by tides and winds, ensures consistent fishing opportunities regardless of the season, with diverse areas protected by mangroves and creeks. 14:40 - Tyler explains that while they primarily catch slot-sized redfish ranging from 20 to 28 inches, occasionally they encounter larger fish over 30 inches. 18:48 - One crucial tip Dane offers is to understand the directions given by the guide and to be mindful of the length of the fly rod when estimating distances. Additionally, he recommends using an 8 weight rod for optimal performance in their fishing conditions. 22:57 - Dylan and Dane discuss the influence of wind on their fishing conditions. While calm periods can be conducive to fishing, excessively glassy water can make fish skittish. They emphasize the importance of adapting to varying wind conditions. 31:38 - Chris discusses the importance of immediate line retrieval upon casting to maintain tension and minimize slack. He notes that sight fishing allows anglers to observe most takes, particularly in

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/571  Presented by: Northern Rockies Adventures, Angler's Coffee, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Togens Fly Shop Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors      Ryan Johnston, the visionary behind Cast Hope, unveils the transformative impact of his program on the lives of youth facing adversity. Not only will Ryan share heartwarming stories of change and growth, but he'll also reveal expert strategies for steelhead fishing. Learn how to navigate the challenges of the fish barrel roll, master the timing for jumping fish, and handle the thrill of a running fish. This episode is packed with insights that promise to enhance your fishing skills and inspire you to make a difference. Don't miss out on this captivating journey with Ryan Johnston—tune in now to elevate your fishing game and discover how you can contribute to a meaningful cause this season. Episode Chapters with Ryan Johnston on Cast Hope 7:00 - Ryan shares the inspiring journey of Cast Hope, born from a desire to use his gifts for the betterment of his community, sparked by a sermon he couldn't shake. Starting with a simple idea to donate guided fishing trips to kids facing tough times, Cast Hope blossomed into a nonprofit that now spans four regions, serving over 700 kids. 16:38 - Their vision is to cover 10 to 12 regions across the country to impact as many kids as they can. He encourages people to donate through their website at casthope.org/donate. 18:08 - He recounts an inspiring story from their specialized trip, the Heritage Trout Challenge, where older kids go on a journey across California to catch specific native trout species. A particularly moving moment involved a teenager named Obie, who, during a trip to catch coastal cutthroat trout, experienced the ocean for the first time. Despite living just two and a half hours away, Obie had never seen the ocean before, highlighting the transformative power of these experiences in opening new worlds for these children. 21:57 - He shares more heartwarming stories of transformation and connection through the medium of fishing. Ryan highlights the powerful narratives featured on their website, notably mentioning Jordy and Christina, two individuals whose lives were significantly altered by their engagement with Cast Hope. 36:58 - Ryan categorizes California's steelhead scene into three distinct groups, each offering unique experiences for anglers, which are valley steelhead, mountain steelhead, and coastal steelhead. 37:48 - He reminisces about the early 2000s, a time when the coastal steelhead scene was largely uncharted territory for fly fishers. Back then, anglers like Ryan could explore and fish in relative solitude, discovering new spots and techniques without the crowds seen today. 40:58 - He shares insights into the effective technique of side drifting from a boat, a method that allows for extended drifts and optimizes the time flies spend in the prime fishing zone. This approach, Ryan explains, is especially effective in rivers like the Eel, where runs can be a hundred yards long, allowing for a drift that keeps the flies in the 'zone' for an extended period. 42:38 - He delves into the intricacies of avoiding spooking the fish, the importance of water clarity, and how to execute a proper hook set for coastal steelhead, which are known for their size and strength. 47:08 - We get into the nitty-gritty of steelhead fishing tactics with Ryan, focusing on the leader setup for effective drifting techniques. He also delves into the strategy of locating steelhead, emphasizing the importance of mobility and observation. The approach is to fish quickly, moving on if a spot doesn't yield results after a few attempts, but to slow down and fish methodically upon hooking a fish. 51:45 - Ryan highlights the significance of upsizing micro spawn flies for better visibility and effectiveness in catching larger steelheads, with shrimp pink and steelhead orange being his go-to

Listen to the full Denny Episode #64 here:  https://wetflyswing.com/570b Should you waste any time fishing the deeper waters of a stillwater lake?  Why go deep when trout feed a majority of their time in the shallows?  Denny rickards was on the podcast in episode # 64 and drove home this point and a number of other tips and trick.  And this episode is the most replayed episode in the history of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast.  Today you will find out why and some of his best tips on catching trophy trout in stillwaters.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/570 Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Skwala, Angler's Coffee, VA Fly Fishing Festival Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Uncover the secrets of thriving bay ecosystems and the art of fishing with our insightful guest, Allan Berger, Chair at San Antonio Bay Partnership Inc. and passionate advocate for the conservation of San Antonio Bay. Set sail with us on an auditory voyage where we paint the rich tapestry of the bay's geography, from the marshlands to the barrier island of Matagorda. This episode promises to immerse you in the natural splendor of the Mid-Texas coast and the cherished traditions it supports, all while emphasizing the urgent need to balance human pursuits with nature's delicate rhythms. Join the conversation on the life cycle of redfish and the bay's vital role in their growth, gaining an understanding of the environmental challenges these ecosystems face, such as climate change and freshwater scarcity. Discover the collective efforts to protect the bay, from crab trap cleanups to revitalizing mangroves post-Hurricane Harvey. Allan's wisdom will not only inform but inspire, as we explore strategies that bolster the region's resilience and the importance of responsible stewardship to safeguard the natural allure of places like Morse Bay for future generations. As we wrap up, we share a trove of tips for kayak anglers and celebrate the simple joys of paddling through these waters, whether you're after the thrill of the catch or the peace of birdwatching. This episode is an invitation to appreciate the mid-Texas coast's natural wonders and join hands in preserving this precious ecosystem. Get ready to be motivated, informed, and perhaps even entertained, as we cast our nets wide into the world of conservation and coastal treasures with Allan's expert guidance. (0:00:05) - Protecting the San Antonio Bay Nature's beauty and ecological significance in San Antonio Bay, including marshlands, redfish and trout habitats, and Bay Flats Lodge's fishing operations. (0:13:10) - Preserving the Bay and Redfish Nature's life cycle of redfish in the Gulf, spawning in passes and maturing in bays, faces challenges but can be conserved through partnerships. (0:20:25) - Conservation Challenges in Natural Bay Area Nature's beauty and conservation challenges in Morse Bay, responsible enjoyment, redfish populations, Hurricane Harvey's impact, and seasonal vigilance. (0:32:23) - Cleaning Up Crab Traps, Promoting Conservation Win a trip to Bay Place Lodge and help clean up crab traps to preserve marine life. (0:43:16) - Bay Systems and Anti-Litter Report Card Nature's health in San Antonio Bay was assessed in a 2023 report card, highlighting the impact of development and the need for sustainable management. (0:54:54) - The Greatness of the Mid-Texas Coast The mid-Texas coast is popular for fishing and birding, with a growing second home market and a focus on preserving local bays and redfish. (1:01:44) - Fishing Tips and Kayak Strategies Nature's tips for successful redfish catching, appreciation for baseball, and challenges of kayak fishing. (1:07:18) - Benefits of Paddling and Conservation Work Nature's joys of kayaking for fishing and birdwatching, encountering wildlife, saving time and effort, exercise, sabpartnership.org, and gratitude for guest's insights. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/570

Show Notes:  https://inthebucketpodcast.com/002 Today we're joined by Riley Leboe, Kye Petersen, and the legendary Feet Banks. These guys are all enthusiastic steelhead anglers with interesting stories to tell. Riley is a retired pro skier and talented filmmaker. Kye is one of the most influential free-skiers in the world. And Feet is a writer who also happens to be the Editor of Mountain Life Magazine. Stick around with us today as we explore the connection between life on the mountains and chasing fish in the valley. These guys have some great insight for anyone looking to fish for early-season winter steelhead. Alright, let's get going. It's time to get in the bucket. Episode Chapters (0:00:01) - Reading the Landscape Nature's impact on outdoor activities like skiing and steelhead fishing, genetic and behavioral differences in steelhead, and thrilling experiences on the Skeena. (0:06:13) - Winter Steelheading Nature's connection to fish in Skeena River, challenges of fishing in big water, understanding fish behavior, staying motivated in winter, proper layering, and camaraderie in fishing. (0:14:21) - The Steelhead Fishing Experience Nature's comfort in outdoor activities, emotional aspects of fishing, camaraderie around campfires, and the allure of challenges in fishing. (0:22:16) - The Impact of Fishing and Skateboarding Nature's transformative power in fishing, skateboarding, and skiing, and its appeal for all ages and as a safe alternative for risk-taking. (0:30:12) - The Beauty of Fishing and Skiing Nature's role in outdoor activities, community, and emotional connection, specifically in skiing, fishing, and rock climbing. (0:40:13) - Discussion on Fishing and Multi-Sport Adventures Nature's influence on fishermen driving Toyota Tacomas, revealing fishing spots, and combining activities like skiing and fishing. (0:48:42) - Skiing and Ski Movie Discussions Nature's blend of skiing and fishing in Northern BC, Shames co-op resort, ski movies, and "Sacred Grounds" series. (1:00:45) - Impact of Talent in Filmmaking, Fishing Skilled professionals enhance film quality in niche areas like ski and fishing filmmaking, while camaraderie and a relaxed approach are important in fishing. Show Notes: https://inthebucketpodcast.com/002

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/568  Presented by: Togiak River Lodge, Visit Helena, MT, Smitty's Fly Box Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors      Today, Robert Chiasson gives us his biggest tips and tactics on finding and catching Atlantic salmon on a dry fly. He also shares a story on what it felt like to land and see this 48-inch Atlantic salmon caught on the surface with a bomber. Robert is the best person you can find if you want to fish the Margaree River and the waters of Nova Scotia and Cape Breton. You'll find out how to dead drift a fly, how to fish a seam, how to find those fish in that seam with a dry, why the reach cast is a great cast to know, and the best hook for Atlantic salmon.   Episode Chapters with Robert Chiasson on Atlantic Salmon 1:20 - Robert grew up learning to salmon fish on the Chéticamp River and eventually became a guide there. He has been guiding regularly since 1992. 2:33 - The Margaree has the largest run of Atlantic Salmon in Cape Breton. He says that it's a very friendly and relaxed river to fish in. He tells more about the Margaree for those who are planning a fly fishing trip there. 7:42 - They fish from June to the end of October. In the first couple of weeks of June, they mostly fish wet flies. By mid to late June, they're heavy into the dry fly season. About 80% of his fly choices throughout the summer are dry flies. 10:30 - In the summer, he suggests using a one-handed rod because dries are better presented with single-handed rods. He also likes switch rods. In the fall, he prefers the larger and longer spey rods. 16:10 - We dig deeper into his recommended setup for catching Atlantic salmon in his area. He also gives an important note on Atlantic salmon fishing. 19:28 - He says that when you get into the river, the first thing to look at is the configuration of the flow, so look for the fastest-moving water. And then on the edge of the fast-moving water is the seam. That's where you'll find fish. 21:30 - Robert doesn't cast his dry flies upstream a lot because he likes to lead with the fly. He tells more about his cast presentation for Atlantic salmon. 24:06 - He describes to us what a good day fishing in the Margaree River looks like. He says that one a day is a good day. 30:58 - He tells us about the biggest Atlantic salmon he has seen which he grabbed the tail with two hands. 36:30 - We dig into reels, particularly the click and pawl versus a drag reel in catching Atlantic salmon. 42:05 - He describes how he builds a leader. Straight eight is what they fished growing up. 43:40 - He tells us how different is fishing in Labrador versus in the Margaree. 49:32 - He uses the Daiichi 2110 down eye for the hooks, which is his go-to hook for dry flies.  51:30 - He gives a valuable tip on not losing an Atlantic salmon. 55:40 - He shouts out to some conservation groups such as the Margaree Salmon Association, the Nova Scotia Salmon Association, the Atlantic Salmon Federation, and the Chéticamp River Salmon Association. They have done a lot of great work on Atlantic salmon conservation. 56:40 - He says that a big factor that affects the Atlantic salmon runs is commercial fishing in Greenland. 58:54 - He recommends some places to stay in for those who are planning to go to their area for a fly fishing trip. 1:00:03 - He tells us some history on the Margaree and Cape Breton. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/568 

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/567 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge, Northern Rockies Adventures, TroutRoutes Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Bob Elliott, Chair at Northwest Fly Tyer and Fly Fishing Expo, shares his journey from learning on his own to becoming a lead instructor and a respected figure in the fly fishing community. Our chat takes us through the highly awaited fly fishing expo this 2024, a standout event blending tradition and new ideas, unlike any other fishing show. We'll reminisce about our earliest fly fishing memories and shine a spotlight on the Lin Betten Family Fly Fishers Club, which helps turn eager beginners into skilled anglers through community college courses. Tune in as we explore the mix of competition and friendship fostered by local fly shops and the community, with events like the creative Bugs and Bamboo. We'll also discuss the significant impact of COVID-19 on these gatherings and the excitement surrounding the rise of Tenkara fishing. Sharing personal stories, including our initial doubts turned enjoyment of Tenkara fishing, we'll paint a vivid picture of the diverse fishing culture thriving in the Pacific Northwest. Wrapping up, we'll give you an inside look at the upcoming fly fishing show, featuring 200 fly tiers and a variety of workshops catering to different interests like Euro nymphing and local fishing expertise. We'll highlight the family-friendly vibe, free entry, and kid-friendly activities, stressing the importance of passing on the love of fishing to the next generation. By spotlighting the contributions of key figures in the Oregon Council and introducing new attractions, we'll extend an invitation to an event sure to enhance the experience for all who join us. (0:00:05) - Fly Fishing Clubs and Northwest Expo Northwest Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo, first memories of fly fishing, self-taught, lead instructor, Lin Betten Family Fly Fishers club, collaboration with certified instructors. (0:14:22) - Bugs and Bamboo Local fly shops collaborate with community, COVID impact on event attendance, Tenkara fishing (0:28:52) - Northwest Fly Show and Workshops Exciting fly fishing show with 200 fly tyers, workshops, family-friendly activities, and a social atmosphere with local shops and craft breweries. (0:43:39) - Event Details and Reasons to Attend Team dynamics, ideal traits, contributions of members, innovative attractions, financial challenges, fundraising, and grants for fly fishing events. (0:54:50) - Fly Fishing Event and Sponsorship Opportunities New sponsors, community engagement, National FFI Board, unique PNW fly fishing culture, event website for more information. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/567

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/566 Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures, Visit Helena, MT, TroutRoutes   Have you ever struggled to fish a dry fly? Today we have Jason Randall back on to break down dry fly fishing, the perfect dry dropper leader setup, and how to fish it. Jason shares three invaluable tips, from his unique leader rigging with a tippet ring to the nuanced technique of twitching your fly, addressing common pitfalls in energy transfer during casting. Tune in as we delve into the details, including the best knots for leaders, and discover the upcoming Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival. Show Notes with Jason Randall on Dry Fly Fishing Mastery.  02:59 - Since our episode with Jason in April 2019, Jason has been actively involved in the fly fishing scene, initially concentrating on nymphing with the release of his book, "Nymph Masters: Fly-Fishing Secrets from Expert Anglers." Subsequently, he shifted his focus to refining dry fly techniques, dedicating the past three years to developing leaders that allow the very best drag-free drift. Photo via https://www.amazon.com/Nymph-Masters-Fly-Fishing-Secrets-Anglers/dp/0811716791 7:33 - Jason emphasizes the importance of an efficient leader for achieving the perfect dead drift in dry fly fishing. By using a well-designed, energy-efficient leader anglers can maintain better control, minimize tangles, and achieve an elegant cast. 11:05 - Jason stresses the importance of choosing the right casting angle and the effectiveness of downstream presentations for managing challenging currents and maximizing the drift. 13:28 - Jason shares techniques for animating dry flies. He explains the rigging adjustments and movements that make a standard cast into a compelling lure for trout. Dry Fly Fishing the Driftless Area  16:06 - We discuss the unique charm and technical challenges of the Driftless Area. We explore the diverse hatches and seasons that make the area a dynamic and rewarding destination for anglers. 19:00 - Jason describes his innovative dry fly leader. Jason uses a three or four-weight rod for spring creeks, and he refers to the upper 10 feet of his leader as the "standing section." The wear section, experiencing more frequent changes, is adjusted daily based on fly changes and conditions. He notes its collaborative development with fellow anglers Devin Olsen, Ed Engle, and AK Best. 37:06 - Jason emphasizes the importance of mending early and frequently, especially on larger bodies of water. He advises breaking surface tension by snapping the line in a spiral fashion to prevent unwanted sounds and disturbance to the fly. 55:00 - Jason Randall discusses the Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival, emphasizing its family-friendly atmosphere. He shares his favorite beverage, the Moscow Mule, and expresses the joy of connecting with fellow anglers and learning from them at the shows. 1:02:00 - Jason Randall offers three key takeaways for dry dropper fishing: Firstly, he emphasizes the importance of practice, suggesting anglers hone their casts and techniques at home. Secondly, he advocates approaching river outings with a focus on improvement and learning rather than just catching fish. Lastly, he stresses the value of preparation, encouraging anglers to do their homework on the water they'll be fishing to enhance their chances of success. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/566  

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/565 Presented By: TroutRoutes As he grasped his grandfather's old fly rod, he couldn't help but feel the weight of legacy in his hands. That's the moment our guest, Zach Pope, credits for sparking a lifelong love affair with fly fishing—a passion that would eventually lead to the creation of the TroutRoutes app. Our conversation casts a line into the evolution of this innovative mapping tool and its role in guiding anglers to the perfect catch. We discuss how the app aids in finding both fish and legal fishing spots, and how it was shaped by early expeditions, personal stories, and a desire to meld tradition with technology. With TroutRoutes, fly fishing aficionados can navigate the often murky waters of public access and navigability laws. Our guest takes us through the app's features, which include layers for public access points, ensuring that while the serenity of your favorite fishing hole remains undisturbed, your knowledge of the legal landscape does not. We delve into the importance of clear messaging within the app, the respect for user privacy with private notes, and the dedication to listening and responding to customer feedback, all of which have been critical in refining and expanding this digital fishing companion. Our episode wouldn't be complete without addressing the intertwined relationship between fly fishing and conservation. You'll hear about how TroutRoutes supports conservation efforts through partnerships with like-minded organizations, and the ongoing commitment to preserve the waters we cherish. Plus, you won't want to miss the scoop on an upcoming journey to the Driftless Area—a fly fishing haven known for its abundant limestone spring-fed creeks and picturesque scenery. So, grab your waders and join us for a foray into the streams of nostalgia, innovation, and the future of fly fishing. Episode Chapters - TroutRoutes (0:00:05) - Fly Fishing and Trout Routes App Discovering a grandparent's fly rod leads to a passion for trout fishing and the creation of TroutRoutes app. (0:10:41) - Mapping Trout Routes and Public Access TroutRoutes is a digital mapping tool for anglers, providing access to information for stocked and wild trout streams. (0:17:40) - TroutRoutes TroutRoutes app promotes exploration, private notes, and navigability laws to enhance fly fishing experience. (0:21:44) - Lessons in Product Development and Expansion Nature's lessons from a startup's early decisions and customer feedback, including adapting to regional fishing experiences and integrating local regulations into the app. (0:32:47) - Trout Fishing App and OnX's Expansion TroutRoutes app's value and pricing, OnX's flexible plans, trout lake layer, historical fishing methods, and technology's impact on outdoor resources. (0:39:29) - Conservation and Nonprofit Commitment Fly fishing app donates to conservation, promotes accessibility and public land access, and engages with the community through partnerships and expos. (0:49:10) - Unique Fishing Area Exploration Nature's unique fly fishing opportunities in the Driftless Area, TroutRoutes app, upcoming trip with local expert Jerry. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/565

Get the full Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/swinging-for-chinook-insights-from-alaskan-waters Embark on a journey to the heart of Alaska, where the rivers hold secrets only the most dedicated anglers dare to uncover. This short podcast offers you insights into the art and soul of catching Chinook – the mightiest of salmon, in the wild waters of the North. This podcast is based on a podcast we did with one of the biggest OG's of the swing game, George Cook.  You can listen to this episode in podcast 406 of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast.  Hope you enjoy this short podcast and that you get a chance to also listen episode 406 with George.  

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/564  Presented by: Northern Rockies Adventures, Angler's Coffee, Togiak River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors     In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of chatting with none other than Jim Teeny, a true legend in the fly fishing world, about king salmon fishing. From creating the game-changing Teeny Nymph to revolutionizing fly lines, Jim's done it all. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, kick back, and let me take you through some of the highlights from our conversation with Jim. Episode Chapters with Jim Teeny on King Salmon Fishing 00:01:36 - Jim shares his upcoming trips with us including his trip to Jurassic Lake in Argentina where he once caught a giant rainbow trout. 00:03:16 - He takes us down memory lane to the 1960s. Imagine this: Jim and his buddy head out to Oregon's East Lake, not knowing they're about to make fly fishing history. That's where the iconic Teeny Nymph was born. And the fly lines? Well, Jim's quest to better sink rates led to a friendly chat with Scientific Anglers, sparking a revolution in how we think about fly lines. Who knew a simple idea could change so much? 00:09:50 - According to Jim, if the water is high in Alaska, the kings will often be on the brackish side of the water. When he's fishing there, he mostly uses his TS-Series and a short leader like three to four feet. When targeting chinooks, he uses a single-hand rod. 00:17:38 - Jim's philosophy on fishing, "I spot 'em I got 'em", is pretty straightforward – if you can see the fish, you can catch it. He swears by polarized glasses and a keen eye. During our talk, he shared some epic moments on steelhead fishing. It's all about reading and understanding the water and being in the right place at the right time. He also details how he would present a fly to the fish. 00:24:49 - He shares a story that he also wrote in his book titled "Fly Fishing Great Waters". One day on their teeny flies and fly lines, they hooked 77 king salmon. Talking about King Salmon with Jim is like listening to an action-packed adventure novel. He's fished from Alaska to the Pacific Northwest and has stories that'll make your reel spin. 00:41:12 - He gives us valuable tips on fishing for Sockeye salmon in Alaska. He mentions the colors that would get you sockeyes and kings, but their number one is hot pink. He also shares about that time when he won a fishing tournament on saltwater. 00:49:18 - Jim's not one to stay put. He shares tales of his fishing trips around the globe. Each adventure is a mix of stunning scenery, amazing catches, and great company. It's like taking a world tour while chasing after the next big catch. 00:55:08 - He briefly shares how he came to start up a business in fly fishing. 1:00:47 - He gives a shout-out to John Randolph, editor of the Fly Fisherman magazine, and Lefty Kreh whom he looks up to in the industry. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/564 

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/563 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge Delve into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness and experience the luxury and isolation with Zack and Jordan Larsen as they unveil the wonders of fly fishing Togiak. Today we're going to discover what it takes to catch a Chinook salmon on a fly. We'll also get a backstage look into Zack and Jordan's Lodge and what to expect when you're heading for King Salmon or mousing for Rainbow. Plus, we just launched a huge giveaway to win a spot for five days of fishing with Zack and Jordan at the Togiak River Lodge. Show Notes with Zack and Jordan Larsen on Fly Fishing Togiak. Pre-Season Preparations at Togiak 2:30 - Zack discusses the intricate preparations for the upcoming fishing season at the Lodge. This includes the logistical challenges of transporting supplies and managing administrative tasks, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into creating the perfect fishing experience. Fly Fishing Togiak Lodge  04:20 - Zack and Jordan detail the guest's journey from arrival in Alaska to their first day at the Lodge. They describe the transport logistics, the breathtaking scenery during the boat ride, and the warm welcome by the staff, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. 06:20 - We talk about the diverse fishing experiences available at Togiak. Zack and Jordan tell us about the strategies for targeting different fish species like Chinook salmon and rainbows. 9:40 - Zack offers valuable tips on gear selection and fly fishing techniques specific to the Togiak region. 11:23 - Zack and Jordan discuss the importance of matching the right guide with guests based on skill sets, fishing preferences, and personalities. 16:00 - In Togiak, targeting Chinook salmon with a fly rod is predominantly done with spey gear. Most anglers opt for spey rods around 13 to 13.5 feet in length, with a nine or 10 weight being common. Conservation Efforts in Bristol Bay 31:42 - The conversation shifts to the importance of conservation in Bristol Bay, specifically discussing the proposed Pebble Mine project. We talk about the significance of preserving this pristine environment for future generations. Fishing Opportunities at Togiak Lodge 37:00 -Zack and Jordan share that the fishing season at Togiak River Lodge typically begins around June 21st, continuing through late July for the first season. Following a brief break, the silver salmon season starts on August 10th, extending until the middle of September. 42:00 -  Jordan and Zack acknowledge the mixed emotions of leaving family and the challenges of travel. Despite occasional moments of questioning the endeavor, the unique allure of Alaska, with its wild and wonderful experiences, continues to captivate them. 46:00 - Zack and Jordan recount a meeting with Jim Teeny, highlighting their previous use of his lines at the lodge. 48:00 -  Zack highlights the Lodge's provision of all-inclusive amenities, including food and beverages, and reminds guests about the alcohol restrictions due to Togiak being a dry village. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/563