Episodios

  • 732 | Chad Johnson's Reel Southern Podcast - Streamer Fishing, White River, Big Johnson

    732 | Chad Johnson's Reel Southern Podcast - Streamer Fishing, White River, Big Johnson
    Mar 17 2025

    #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
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Traveled #26 | The South Fork Lodge with Justin Adams - Salmon Flies, Snake River, Cutthroat

    Traveled #26 | The South Fork Lodge with Justin Adams - Salmon Flies, Snake River, Cutthroat
    Mar 15 2025

    #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 great days on the water. You can fish for cutthroat, brown trout, rainbows, and even hybrids called cutbows.

    Seasons & Timing

    Winter (December to February)

    Fishing slows, but snowmobiling and skiing take over.

    Ice fishing is possible on nearby reservoirs.

    Spring (March to May)

    High water from runoff, but big browns are on the move.

    Worm patterns and big nymphs work best.

    Summer (June to August)

    The legendary Salmon Fly hatch happens around July 4th.

    Dry flies dominate, with fish looking up for big bugs.

    Fall (Sept–Oct)

    Low water levels make for easier wading.

    Brown trout start spawning, so target deep holes away from the beds.

    Most anglers visit in July, especially around the 4th, when the salmon flies hatch.

    Justin’s Go-To Set-Up for the South Fork

    13:13 - Justin swears by a simple but deadly setup, which is the double Pat’s Rubber Legs or what they also call "two turds". He usually runs it under a mini bobber with a swivel setup, and if he needs more depth, he says he'll add a split shot.

    Guides also swear by the Mic Drop, a simple olive-bodied fly with an orange collar. It looks like a zebra midge but could imitate just about anything. Sizes 16 to 20 work best, depending on the conditions.

    https://youtu.be/QUK-if6brp0?si=CNuh5On4qwtoBGXQ

    Rods

    Justin swaps between 9 ft and 10 ft rods for nymphing. He uses the 10 ft rod (usually a 5-weight with a 6-weight line) for easier mending. Since they're mending all day, he says the extra length helps control the drift. It’s all about keeping the fly line behind the indicator for a slow, natural presentation.

    Leader

    Justin builds his leaders instead of using store-bought tapered ones. His setup uses a hinge system under the indicator, creating a 90-degree rig.

    Why Fish on the South Fork Have Scuffed Noses

    During the salmon fly hatch, the trout on the South Fork get aggressive. They’re actively picking them off the rocks instead of just waiting for bugs to land. Many fish end up with scuffed noses or even a bit of "road rash" from rubbing against the rocks while feeding.

    The One Fly

    The One Fly is a fly fishing competition and fundraiser on the South Fork and Upper Snake River. Anglers get just one fly. If they lose it, they’re out. Bigger fish earn more points, so strategy matters. The event brings in top anglers from all over, but local guides lead the way.

    https://youtu.be/9ZxmTBHEqAs?si=04eovcZemagJD5h2

    The Rainbros Tournament

    Jimmy Kimmel and his crew fish every spring in their dry-fly-only competition. The rules are simple: Topwater fish are two points, subsurface is one, and a whitefish is a minus point. Michael Keaton, Jason Bateman, and Huey Lewis get in on it.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/731B
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    58 m
  • 731 | Fly Fishing Massachusetts with George Sylvestre - Cape Cod, Tailwaters, Midges

    731 | Fly Fishing Massachusetts with George Sylvestre - Cape Cod, Tailwaters, Midges
    Mar 14 2025
    #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 episode, guide and instructor George Sylvestre shares insights on fishing Massachusetts waters, from the tailwaters of the western part of the state to the flats of Cape Cod. He also introduces his Cape Cod School of Saltwater Fly Fishing, designed to help anglers confidently step into saltwater fly fishing. Key Differences Between Freshwater and Saltwater Fly Fishing: Casting in the Wind – Saltwater fishing almost always involves wind, so anglers need to adjust their casting technique.Longer Casts – Unlike trout fishing, where accuracy matters at short distances, saltwater fly fishing often requires reaching fish that are farther out.The Strip Set – Trout anglers often instinctively lift their rod when setting the hook, but in saltwater, a strip set is crucial to securing a strong connection with fast-moving fish. Fly Fishing in Massachusetts: A Diverse and Exciting Fishery Massachusetts offers fly anglers a wide range of fishing opportunities, from technical trout streams to expansive saltwater flats. George shares what makes this state a special place to fish, with its mix of tailwaters, freestones, reservoirs, and a world-class saltwater fishery. Top Fishing Opportunities in Massachusetts: The Deerfield River – A productive tailwater that holds brown trout, rainbows, and brook trout year-round.The Miller’s River – A freestone river that challenges anglers with changing conditions and a variety of techniques including dry flies, nymphs, and streamers.Stillwater Reservoirs – Great for targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass, plus a fun spot to take kids fishing.Boston Harbor & Cape Cod – Striped bass fishing at its finest, with miles of coastline and ever-changing fishing spots. Exploring the Brewster Flats: Fly Fishing Cape Cod's Hidden Gem Cape Cod is known for its stunning coastline, but for fly anglers, the Brewster Flats offer one of the most unique and exciting fisheries on the East Coast. 12,000 acres of tidal flats create an ever-changing landscape where anglers can walk for miles in search of striped bass and bluefish. Why Fish the Brewster Flats Diverse Species – Stripers in May, bluefish in summer, and albies in the fall.Easy Access – Public access points make it simple to explore.Changing Conditions – A 12-foot tide swing means careful planning is key. Guides like George help anglers navigate this fishery with clinics and guided trips focused on timing, casting, and reading the water. Chasing False Albacore and Stripers in Cape Cod September fly fishing in Cape Cod is all about variety. Mornings start with chasing albies as they crash bait along the coast. These fish are fast, picky, and put up a serious fight. Instead of constantly running after them, George likes to find their pattern and let them come to him. Once the sun gets higher, it's time to head to the Monomoy rips, where strong currents create standing waves that attract striped bass, bluefish, and more albies. Fishing here is full of action—big fish, heavy flies, and rods bending deep into the backing. If you’ve never had an albie on a sinking line in rough water, you’re missing out on one of the best fights in saltwater fly fishing. For those looking for a more classic flats experience, Monomoy’s Great Flats offer prime striper action. As the tide pushes bait into shallow channels, stripers line up like cars in a traffic jam, waiting for the perfect ambush. It's sight fishing at its best—just be ready for fast-moving water and changing conditions. From Freshwater to Salt: How Cape Cod Became a Fly Fishing Obsession George’s fly fishing journey started young, thanks to his grandfather’s curiosity about the sport. Growing up on the Connecticut coast, he spent his days chasing bluefish and learning the rhythms of the water. His fly fishing passion really took off later, after a trip to the Catskills that changed everything. Over time, he found himself drawn back to Cape Cod, a place he...
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    1 h y 5 m
  • 730 | Saving Wild Salmon with Rick Williams – Snake River Dams, Managed Extinction, Steelhead Conservation

    730 | Saving Wild Salmon with Rick Williams – Snake River Dams, Managed Extinction, Steelhead Conservation
    Mar 12 2025

    #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://wetflyswing.com/730
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    1 h y 8 m
  • 729 | Stillwater Fly Fishing Myths Debunked with Denny Rickards

    729 | Stillwater Fly Fishing Myths Debunked with Denny Rickards
    Mar 10 2025
    #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 064, where we covered lakes and the history of stillwater fishing. Today, we're going to do another round, and we'll also talk about some common stillwater fly fishing myths and challenges. Matching the Hatch 03:13 - Denny said many anglers start their day by trying to match what they think the fish are eating. He said this practice of matching the hatch comes from our days when we first started fly fishing on streams and rivers. Denny points out that 90% of a trout’s food is below the surface, not on top. Just because a fly isn’t working right away doesn’t mean it’s the wrong one. The real question is, did the fish even see it? Finding Fish on a Lake 07:36 - Denny says there are two things you must figure out first: where the fish are and how deep they are. If you don’t, you’ll fall into the trial-and-error trap. A common stillwater fly fishing myth is that a fish will hit your fly again if it missed the first time, but Denny’s never seen that happen. Instead of wasting casts on the same spot, Denny said to move. The angler who keeps moving will always outfish the one who stays put. The more fresh fish that see your fly, the better your chances. The angler who keeps moving will always outfish the one who stays put. Denny Rickards Where Do Trout Feed? Denny said that no two lakes are the same. But trout feed in only two places where fish feed anywhere in the world: shoreline edges and the top foot of the surface. If the trout are not in any of those two spots, then that means they're under and not feeding. If a trout is deeper than six feet, it's not eating; it's just sitting there like a brick. Some anglers think that because they catch fish at 10 feet, that’s where trout are feeding. But that’s a stillwater fly fishing myth. Trout move to eat, and they always go where food is most concentrated—shoreline edges and the surface. Here's why: Food gathers in specific areas. Insects emerge from the bottom and stop at the surface. Shoreline edges are loaded with food because that’s where the proto plankton and zooplankton live. Big fish don’t share space with small ones. They move shallow when there’s wind or darkness for cover. 18:47 - Most anglers think fish come up from behind and chase a fly. But that's a myth. Fish hit from the side. If you check where the hook lands, it's almost always in the corner of the mouth. Here’s how to take advantage of that: Show them the profile view. Fish moving along the shore want to see the whole fly—head, tail, color, and movement. Don't strip too far. If you pull more than five feet, the fish won’t follow. If you hook one, stay put. There’s probably more fish nearby. The Truth About Where Trout Go 22:17 - Some say trout move way out deep when the sun gets high. That’s a myth. Why would a fish waste all that energy just to come back later? They don’t. They move just 8 to 10 feet out, right under where you are! Why Water Temperature Matters Water temperature is the number one thing that moves fish. Spring fishing can be tough in reservoirs because the water chemistry is out of sync. When lakes are drawn down in the fall, nutrients and oxygen levels take time to rebuild. That’s why the best fishing often doesn’t start until late summer or fall. Here are some key things to remember: In the spring, reservoirs that are drawn down don’t fish well. Cold water and low oxygen levels stress fish, making them harder to catch. Fish like a temperature range of 55-62°F for optimal feeding. The top water layers heat up in warmer months, but fish stay at the cooler, oxygen-rich depths. Why Fish Take on the Pause 31:29 - Fish don’t always hit when you're pulling. They strike when you pause. Here’s why: As you retrieve, your fly moves up in the water. When you pause, it drops. That’s when the fish makes its move. But instead of chasing, it simply opens its mouth and sucks the fly in. Denny learned this ...
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    1 h y 24 m
  • Great Lakes Dude #11: Great Lakes Fishing & Conservation with D'Arcy Egan and Jeff Liskay

    Great Lakes Dude #11: Great Lakes Fishing & Conservation with D'Arcy Egan and Jeff Liskay
    Mar 7 2025

    #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, smallmouth bass, and even catfish on the fly.
    • Why the Cuyahoga River’s transformation is a success story for anglers.

    Jeff and D’Arcy dive deep into the rich history of Ohio’s fishing scene, including stories of legendary anglers, conservation battles, and the growing potential of the Cuyahoga River. If you love the Great Lakes, steelhead fishing, or just good old-fashioned fish stories, this episode is for you!

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/728

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    1 h y 11 m
  • In the Bucket #15 | Steelhead on the Dry with Adrian Cortes & Richard Harrington – Classic Flies, Painting

    In the Bucket #15 | Steelhead on the Dry with Adrian Cortes & Richard Harrington – Classic Flies, Painting
    Mar 5 2025

    #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
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    2 h y 32 m
  • 726 | Guideline Fly Fishing Max Kantor - Choosing a Spey Line, Kola Peninsula, Steelhead

    726 | Guideline Fly Fishing Max Kantor - Choosing a Spey Line, Kola Peninsula, Steelhead
    Mar 3 2025

    #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 there and what makes it so unique.

    05:52 - The Ponoi is an amazing natural reserve and you can find out more information on booking a trip at the Fly Shop here.

    07:26 - We discuss the location of the Kola Peninsula in Russia in relation to other countries in the region.

    09:26 - Our guest describes some on the life history of Atlantic Salmon. Here's some information on A. Salmon life histories.

    16:00 - Max describes the perfect line for salmon and notes the Airflo FIST line as a good early season fly line.

    17:37 - We talk about the Guideline Classic Scandi Body fly line. This is a good all around scandi for atlantic salmon.

    21:49 - For Norway, a longer 14' rod is common but guys also use shorter and longer spey rods from 13 to 15 feet.

    24:26 - We discuss the longer rods and how spey casting is different with the big stick. Take a look at the video below that gives a few tips on casting the longer rods.

    26:20 - Max describes the ULS Scandi line that works great for single handed spey. This is a great option for smaller rivers or where a two handed rod is not needed.


    31:15 - Dave asks about Togiak River Lodge and what would be the best rod for chinook salmon. The Classic Scandi Body line with the appropriate T tip is the right combination.

    31:43 - The Four Density line by Guideline is also good for big king salmon. This line is simiilar to the Airflo FIST line.

    32:34 - The biggest tip on mending for atlantic salmon is to use a downstream mend, which speeds up the fly. A. Salmon love a fast swung fly.


    32:44 - Max loves tube flies vs shanks. Jonathan Farmer was on the Wet Fly Swing Pro Webinar series and showed us how to tie a tube and a shank in this video.

    37:38 - The Fast Full Flex is the best rod for Togiak King Salmon. As the name notes, it bends all the way down into the cork and works great for casting heavy intruder fly patterns for big salmon.

    42:40 - We discuss the history of Guideline and the founder Leif stavmo.


    46:00 - We discuss the difference between scandi and skagit lines and how to choose one. Skagitmaster describes the differences in this video here.

    47:32 - The Guideline NT 11 trout series is a premium fly rod but comes in at a $600 price point which is a big savings over other premium rods. The NT 11 won the Yellowstone Shootout this year.

    49:11 - We highlight the Guideline Sonic NGx wader which is super durable and has the front zipper which Max loves.

    55:00 - We talk striper fishing and how dedicated people are in the Northeast part of the USA. Max says the take of a striper is very similar to a take of an atlantic salmon!

    57:02 - We talk about Togiak River Lodge who is our travel spotlight for this episode!

    1:03:47 - Big tips for Atlantic Salmon: Don't set the hook to soon. Just use the rolly polly retreive where you can speed up your swing. And also avoid the upstream mend if working down a run. #3 - Try to be consistent with your fishing and the swing.


    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/726
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    1 h y 12 m