Episodes

  • 674 | Alaska Grand Slam with George Krumm - Fish Alaska Magazine, Togiak River Lodge, Chinook Salmon

    674 | Alaska Grand Slam with George Krumm - Fish Alaska Magazine, Togiak River Lodge, Chinook Salmon
    Nov 1 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/674 Presented By: Togiak River Lodge Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/togiak George Krumm, editor of Fish Alaska Magazine and all-around fishy dude, is going to share his experience on Alaska grand slam catching all five salmon species in the same day on a recent trip to the Togiak River. You're going to find out which technique he used to make it happen; where some of the other great trips are around Alaska and things you should be thinking about; and what he thinks is the best thing to help turn around the Chinook decline for the Pacific rim. Plus you're gonna found out how you can plan your Alaska trip easily with a resource at Fish Alaska Magazine. Episode Chapters with George Krumm on Alaska Grand Slam 3:06 - George began his journey into fly fishing when he was about seven years old. His dad gave him a small vice and showed him how to tie flies. The very first fly he tied was a gray hackle peacock. George became truly passionate about fly fishing when he started catching fish with the flies he had tied himself. 5:08 - He shares a bit about how he began his career at Fish Alaska. Melissa Norris and his brother, Marcus, founded both Fish Alaska and Hunt Alaska magazines. For Fish Alaska, George primarily writes about fly fishing. Additionally, they have a "Fly of the Month" column, which is sponsored by Mossy's Fly Shop. 8:12 - George first connected with the Larsen brothers, who own the Togiak River Lodge, during his visit in 2022. His goal was to explore Chinook fishing and write a story about it. Unfortunately, the trip wasn't very successful due to poor water and weather conditions. Despite this, George believes that the Togiak River is a standout location for Chinook fly fishing, as it still boasts strong runs of fish in various sizes. 11:48 - George visited the lodge in mid-August this year, aiming to catch coho salmon on a fly. He successfully caught all five species of Pacific salmon—Chinook, coho, sockeye, chum, and pink salmon—in a single day on a fly rod. His cousin Tom achieved this feat twice in one week. 13:39 - He describes their success, noting that on an average day, he and Tom caught over 75 salmon of various species. Although their main goal was silvers, they caught multiple types of salmon, with the King salmon being the most challenging to catch at that time of year. Interestingly, they managed to achieve a "grand slam" of catching various salmon species by accident. 15:40 - We discuss sockeye salmon, which are less talked about in freshwater fishing. George mentions significant runs in areas like Naknek and Kenai. Sockeye are valued for their red meat and while they usually feed on plankton in the ocean, they can become territorial and bite more when in large groups. For Chum salmon George mentions that they are strong fighters, often leading to broken rods, though they might not look impressive. Pink salmon are smaller and change color quickly, causing them to be underrated, but fresh pinks are tasty, similar to trout. 20:31 - George enjoys the methodical aspect of spey casting, especially for winter steelhead, where catching even one fish is rewarding. He contrasts this with the excitement of fishing in the Togiak River, where large fish are caught more frequently. 26:47 - George highlights the Togiak River Lodge's multiple packages for anglers. He also notes an important change in their policy: during the first few weeks of the fishing season, the lodge will limit the number of anglers from 24 to 14. This adjustment is aimed at providing a better experience for those specifically interested in fishing for King salmon. 27:34 - We dig into the evolving perspectives on fishing practices in Alaska, emphasizing a shift away from the traditional "whack them and stack them" mentality towards more sustainable approaches. George highlights the importance of targeting abundant fish species such as sockeye, pink, and coho salmon, while questioning the necessity of taking large quantities of fish home. Our conversation highlights the need for anglers to adapt to changing times and prioritize sustainable practices. While Alaska has been perceived as having unlimited fish supplies, current trends suggest a need for caution and conservation. 33:36 -We discuss the current state of fly fishing and the associated challenges in different regions, including Alaska and the Skeena system. Fishing restrictions, such as closures on Chinook fishing, are not only happening in Alaska but in other areas as well. 38:50 - George recounts spending extensive time fishing on the Kenai River and now frequently visits the Naknek River for its excellent rainbow trout fishing opportunities. He also highlights the overlooked potential of stillwater fishing around Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula. He notes that many lakes in Alaska are stocked with fish and, unlike in the lower 48 states, they are not heavily fished. This means that these lakes often contain ...
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • 673 - Clean the Dream with Scott Robertson - South Platte River, Landon Mayer, Colarado

    673 - Clean the Dream with Scott Robertson - South Platte River, Landon Mayer, Colarado
    Oct 30 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/673

    Presented By: Waters West, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Drifthook Fly Fishing

    Have you heard about Clean the Dream? It's one of Landon Mayer's favorite events, and today, Scott Robertson is here to tell us all about it.

    Scott shares the history of this inspiring cleanup at the Dream Stream, how it's evolved, and why it matters to anglers everywhere. Find out how saving your tippets can make a difference.

    Episode Chapters with Scott Robertson on Clean the Dream

    We're giving away a huge trip to hit the water with Landon Mayer and learn sight-fishing for massive trout!

    Enter now for your chance to win.

    02:16 - Scott met Landon Mayer 12 years ago through their mutual friend, Brandon Kramer, who co-founded Clean the Dream with Landon.

    05:22 - The Dream Stream is a five-mile stretch of the South Platte River between Eleven Mile and Spinney Mountain Reservoirs. This area crosses three different state lands: Spinney Mountain State Park, Charlie Meyers State Wildlife Area, and Eleven Mile State Park.

    Clean the Dream

    08:04 - Clean the Dream started about ten years ago with only 20 people, but it's grown significantly since then. Now, more sponsors give out prizes, which makes the event more exciting. Clean the Dream event usually happens the third weekend in August.

    Tips for Organizing a Successful Cleanup Event

    11:17 - If you want to host a cleanup event like Clean the Dream, there are a few key things to remember.

    Get the word out.
    Use Social Media - Promote your event on all platforms and get others with a following to share it.
    Find Sponsors - Reach out to brands for donations or prizes.
    Local Businesses -If you can’t get big brands, local stores can help, too!
    Flyers - Don't underestimate the power of good old-fashioned flyers.
    Talk to your local jurisdiction.

    19:52 - You don't need to sign up to join the event. Head to the bridge lot around 8 a.m. on the third weekend in August. Scott says they prepare coffee, juice, and pastries to start the day. Once you're set, you'll get a bucket, trash grabber, bags, and gloves.

    The cleanup lasts about four hours, so you can pitch in for as long as possible. Afterward, a lunch with pulled pork, hot dogs, and chips wraps up the day.

    21:45 - This year’s cleanup had over 200 people—ten times more than when it started. Scott says they're planning something bigger for the 10th anniversary next year.

    23:41 - Scott's love for fishing started when he was 15 with his dad in Hawaii. He explained that while fly fishing wasn't common on the Big Island, he enjoyed saltwater fishing. Moving to Colorado sparked his interest in fly fishing, especially after working in the Bahamas, where he learned about bone fishing.

    IMG_6021

    Check out @clean_the_dream on Instagram for more updates.
    Don't miss your chance to join Landon Mayero for your shot at sight-fishing for massive trout! Visit https://wetflyswing.com/giveaway

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/673
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    51 mins
  • 672 | Sight Fishing Tips for Trout with Landon Mayer - South Platte River, Streamer Tactics, Staying Fit

    672 | Sight Fishing Tips for Trout with Landon Mayer - South Platte River, Streamer Tactics, Staying Fit
    Oct 28 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/672

    Presented By: Waters West, Yellowstone Teton Territory, FishHound Expeditions, Heated Core

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    If you had the choice between sight fishing for big trout or nipping down deep, which one would you choose? And what about streamers versus Dries? Do you have an opinion there? And which of all these techniques do you need more help with right now? Today’s guest is an expert in all of these disciplines, And. today we’re going to help you build a foundation to better understand when and where to site fish effectively for big trout.

    Landon Mayer, South Platte guide, master show speaker, and our trout school professor will be walking us through the trip we’re heading out to this year. You’re gonna find out how to prepare for a trip if you’re focused on site fishing for big trout, what reactions from fish really mean and how to decide when to fish deep or go shallow and what you should do when you can’t see the fish. We’re gonna talk about it all today, plus you’re gonna get Landon’s best health tip on eating and staying fit.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/672
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    56 mins
  • 671 | Choosing the Best Fly Line with Josh Jenkins - Scientific Anglers, Fly Fishing Gear, Permit Fishing

    671 | Choosing the Best Fly Line with Josh Jenkins - Scientific Anglers, Fly Fishing Gear, Permit Fishing
    Oct 23 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/671

    Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Yellowstone Teton Territory

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    Have you ever been confused about how to choose the best fly line for your next fly rod? Did you know that line companies typically overweight lines out of the box to help us out? And are you interested in learning about the process of getting the perfect line for the exact situation you will be fishing this year? Today, we take a trip back into Scientific Anglers, so you have a clear path of selecting the best and perfect line for your next big trip this season.

    Josh Jenkins, R&D manager at Scientific Anglers will shed light on what's new this season and some of their best-selling fly lines. You're going to get some background on the core and the coating and understand how this will help you understand which lines to choose. You're going to discover how to match the leader with your fly line and why the leader is essentially just a mini fly line. We're going to get into that today and we're also going to find out how and why you should be choosing the fly line first and matching your rod to the fly line. Better put, we're going to show you why fly leader line rod and reel is the order you should follow. Josh clarifies it all today.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/671
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 670 | Public Waters and Lands Conservation with Josh Mills - Wild Steelhead Coalition, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Clearwater River

    670 | Public Waters and Lands Conservation with Josh Mills - Wild Steelhead Coalition, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Clearwater River
    Oct 21 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/670 Presented By: Togens Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, TroutRoutes, Angler's Coffee Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Josh Mills, a seasoned expert from the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers team, as well as a board member of the Wild Steelhead Coalition and an accomplished steelhead fly tier, is set to guide us through the Clearwater River and public waters and lands. Today, you'll learn how to adjust your reel technique for enhanced stealth. We'll also provide an update on the status of the Lower Snake River dams and their current developments. Additionally, you'll discover what a public lands yard sale entails. Moreover, we'll analyze a significant western stream to improve your success on the water this year. Together, we'll delve deep into the topics of steelhead fishing and conservation. Let's begin our journey. Episode Chapters with Josh Mills on Public Waters and Lands 3:19 - We talk about our top destinations for steelhead fishing. Josh feels fortunate to fish in local rivers like the Clearwater and Salmon, but he reminisces about a memorable trip to the Skeena region in 2012 and plans to return in 2025. He also dreams of fishing in Northern California, inspired by historical figures in the steelhead community. 12:15 - Josh discusses his fishing strategy, focusing on the Clearwater River. He fishes the Clearwater from August through September, as fish from different basins, including the Snake and Grand Ronde Rivers, seek the cold water as a thermal refuge. He notes the Clearwater can be a challenging but rewarding river to fish. Once the thermal block breaks, fish often return to the Snake River, and Josh shifts his focus to the Grand Ronde system. 16:11 - We ask Josh for advice on fly patterns for steelhead fishing on the Deschutes River in October. He responds by emphasizing the unpredictable nature of steelhead fishing, suggesting that success often depends on the angler's confidence and intuition rather than specific fly patterns. He explains that steelhead are curious and might bite at almost anything due to aggression, predatory instincts, or curiosity. 23:31 - We dig into his involvement with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) and the Wild Steelhead Coalition. He initially got involved by running fundraisers and joining the board of the latter, which led him deeper into conservation efforts. He started volunteering with BHA in 2015, an organization dedicated to protecting public lands and waters in North America. Josh felt compelled to protect these lands, recognizing their importance for recreation and conservation. 28:57 - We get into the complexities of public land and water access laws in the United States, particularly focusing on differences between states. Josh elaborates on the varied stream access laws across states, highlighting how states like Washington, Idaho, and Montana have more permissive laws, while Colorado and Utah face significant challenges. 42:37 - We discuss Josh's experiences and growth in fly fishing. Josh emphasizes the continuous nature of learning and improving in fishing. He talks about the technical skills involved, such as casting and line management, and how observing skilled anglers like Brian Chou and others has inspired him. Josh admires their proficiency in handling challenging conditions and accurately predicting fish locations. Josh acknowledges that despite trying to replicate the techniques of skilled anglers, there are subtle differences in execution that impact results. He emphasizes the importance of learning from others and adapting various techniques, such as transitioning between different fly lines. 45:58 - We compare fishing the Clearwater River versus in the Deschutes. Josh highlights the former's larger size, which offers more room for casting and allows for different fishing techniques. He notes that unlike the Deschutes, where sun orientation impacts fishing strategies, the Clearwater allows for dry line fishing throughout winter. He also mentions the genetic traits of Clearwater fish that make them more likely to rise through the water. Additionally, he compares the river sizes and flow variability, explaining how the Clearwater's dam-controlled nature affects fishing conditions. Despite the challenges, Josh appreciates the unique fishing opportunities both rivers offer, with each having its own "secrets" and characteristics. 49:07 - Josh gives some valuable tips on fishing for steelhead in Clearwater. He suggests visiting the Red Shed Fly Shop for advice and emphasizes the importance of focusing on manageable sections of large rivers. He explains that understanding where fish rest and conserving energy is crucial. For rods, Josh notes that it varies with the season. He enjoys using a 15-foot rod with a 60-foot line but adapts his technique based on conditions. 54:39 - We discuss the dynamics of fly fishing, particularly focusing on the experience of fishing with highly ...
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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • In the Bucket #10 | Dry Fly Fishing for Steelhead in Northern BC with Dax Messett, Ken Morrish, and David Hughes

    In the Bucket #10 | Dry Fly Fishing for Steelhead in Northern BC with Dax Messett, Ken Morrish, and David Hughes
    Oct 16 2024
    1 hr and 49 mins
  • 668 | Celebrating the Life of Colin Mckeown - Ep 84 Re-released

    668 | Celebrating the Life of Colin Mckeown - Ep 84 Re-released
    Oct 14 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/668

    Presented By: Togens Fly Shop

    If you’ve ever watched a fly fishing YouTube video, there’s a good chance you’ve come across one produced by today’s guest, Colin McKeown. Colin sadly passed away last month, and today I want to re-release an interview I did with him in 2019.

    Colin was behind one of the largest fly fishing YouTube channels and inspired many in the industry.

    Show Notes with Celebrating the Life of Colin Mckeown.

    I want to take this moment to celebrate his life and encourage anyone impacted by his work to reach out to his family, The New Fly Fisher team, or even to me if you'd like to share how Colin inspired you or influenced your fishing journey.

    In this episode, we dive into Colin’s background, and how he started The New Fly Fisher, and we’ll talk about Atlantic Salmon, Newfoundland, and his full story. This is from 2019, and as I mentioned, Colin passed away in September of 2024.

    This is a rerelease of Episode 084. If you'd like to listen to the original episode, you can find it here.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/668
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    1 hr and 41 mins
  • 667 | The Fly Fishing Show Experience with Ben Furimsky - Lefty Kreh, Fly Design, Fly Fishing Expo

    667 | The Fly Fishing Show Experience with Ben Furimsky - Lefty Kreh, Fly Design, Fly Fishing Expo
    Oct 9 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/667

    Presented By: Smitty's Fly Box, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton Territory

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    Have you attended The Fly Fishing Show recently? Did you know that the Fly Fishing Show by the Furimskys is the largest fly fishing show in the world? And what is it about these shows that made them so successful in the past and today? Today you're going to find out what's new with the Fly Fishing Show so you know how to get more out of it if you attend this season.

    Ben Furimsky, owner of The Fly Fishing Show takes us into a deep dive behind the scenes of the show. You're going to find out why his event planner job is one of the most stressful jobs in the world, next to a police and a firefighter. You're going to find out how a fly designer is similar to a chef. Ben is a fly designer and has been a guide for many years in the past. And we're going to let you know why you should be attending this year and why you should attend the full show and not for an hour. Plus, you're also going to find out about the consumer choice awards that they do at the show. Here we go!

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/667
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    1 hr and 12 mins