Episodes

  • 633 | Next-Gen Angling Boats with Rich Batcheller of Abstract Watercraft - Driftboats vs Rafts, Carbon Fiber, Boats

    633 | Next-Gen Angling Boats with Rich Batcheller of Abstract Watercraft - Driftboats vs Rafts, Carbon Fiber, Boats
    Jul 17 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/633

    Presented By: TroutRoutes

    Today, we're diving into the world of next-generation angling boats with Rich Batcheller from Abstract Watercraft.

    Rich is the brain behind the revolutionary carbon fiber raft. Find out how their design can help eliminate line tangles and redefine rafting, as well as the features that set this boat apart.

    Stay tuned for an insider's look into the future of watercraft with Rich Batcheller.

    Show Notes with Rich Batcheller on Abstract Watercraft.

    02:28 - Rich's fly fishing journey is greatly influenced by his father. He grew up fishing for sturgeon and salmon on the Willamette River. Today, he enjoys saltwater cutthroat fishing on Bay Bridge Island.

    A quick shoutout to Brian Niska, the host of our In the Bucket Podcast. He recently chatted with Trevor Covich about steelhead fishing. Give it a listen here!

    Abstract Model 1

    07:54 - Rich describes the Abstract Model 1 as an ultralight, self-bailing carbon
    fiber insert that drops into a whitewater raft.

    He explains how this design makes fishing easier and more efficient. Here are some standout features:

    Ultralight Design: Weighs around 275 pounds, 125–150 pounds lighter than a comparable drift boat.
    Carbon Fiber Insert (Provides a rigid floor and walk-around environment).
    No Traditional Rowing Frame
    Easy to Dismantle

    12:51 - Rich shares their journey in developing this new category of boat, their vision, and the challenges faced.

    17:48 - We explore the idea of selling their unique carbon fiber insert separately for other boat models. Rich acknowledges this possibility, but he mentions their partnership with SOTAR.

    He talks about SOTAR's durability and customer service, noting its lightweight and easy customization options, which align with everything Abstract Watercraft is trying to do.

    Check out our episode with Adam Hudson, where we talk about drift boats versus rafts.

    28:20 - One big thing about their raft is the solid platform you can stand on. It lets you move around easily, which is super helpful when you're fishing or guiding people.

    33:04 - Rich shared about his early career at Klein Bicycles, where he learned a lot about design and engineering from working alongside Gary Klein.

    Looking Forward with Abstract Watercraft

    54:51 - Keep an eye on Abstract Watercraft's Instagram and website for their upcoming official boat launch.

    Rich is excited about this new model featuring integrated rod holders, extra storage, and lightweight carbon fiber materials.


    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/633
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    1 hr
  • In The Bucket #7 | April Vokey and Tim Arsenault on Anchored Outdoors and the 2024 Spey-O-Rama Casting Champion

    In The Bucket #7 | April Vokey and Tim Arsenault on Anchored Outdoors and the 2024 Spey-O-Rama Casting Champion
    Jul 15 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/632

    We have a very informative show coming your way, as I'm speaking with April Vokey from Anchored Outdoors, as well as Spey-O-Rama, world champion spey caster, Tim Arsenault. I've been friends with these two for many years and it's been exciting to watch them thrive as respected professionals in the fly fishing industry. April has her own educational media company, including one of the best podcast shows in the outdoor space. Tim runs a fly shop in Vancouver. He's highly sought after as a spa casting instructor and as his own line company. Today we're gonna talk high-level spey casting performance and gain some insight into the mindset of a successful steel header.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/632
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    1 hr and 49 mins
  • 631 | East Coast Fly Fishing with Derek Hutton - Virginia, Bass, Blue Ridge Mountains

    631 | East Coast Fly Fishing with Derek Hutton - Virginia, Bass, Blue Ridge Mountains
    Jul 12 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/631 Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory, Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Stonefly Nets Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Today, Derek Hutton from Hutton Fly joins us to talk about East Coast Fly Fishing. If you've ever dreamt of catching that elusive bass, muskie, or trout, then you're in for a real treat. In this episode, we'll explore the hidden gems of the East Coast, where you can cast your line and experience the thrill of the catch. Plus, Derek will give us a fascinating comparison between fishing in the iconic Yellowstone and the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. So grab your gear, sit back, and get ready to jot down some insider tips and tricks. Episode Chapters with Derek Hutton on East Coast Fly Fishing 2:27 - Originally from east Tennessee, Derek grew up fishing with his family on a farm, progressing from farm pond fishing to lake fishing for largemouth bass, and eventually to ultralight spin tackle fishing for smallmouth bass. 6:38 - Derek's career journey is a blend of his passion for skiing and fishing, which took him from the mountains to the waters. Initially, he worked as a ski instructor at the Grand Targhee Ski Resort, eventually progressing to manage the youth ski program and later becoming the Ski School Manager during the 2008 recession. In 2017, Derek transitioned to focus on his other passion, fishing, and became a full-time traveling guide, working with Wyoming Fish Fly Fishing Guides and WorldCast Anglers. 12:21 - He talks about how he came to manage the Abaco Lodge in the Bahamas, marking a significant shift from his previous roles in the West. The lodge, however, was devastated by Hurricane Dorian, which marked a challenging period for Derek and his career. 16:33 - Derek recounts the catastrophic damage, noting that the main lodge building was destroyed by the storm surge and high winds, which were unprecedented in strength. 25:02 - Derek talks about the challenges he faced in his career, sharing that he juggled multiple jobs, including instructing, night auditing, and various odd jobs to make ends meet. 27:30 - We delve into the journey and challenges in the professional recreation industry, particularly focusing on fly fishing and skiing. Derek mentions the high attrition rate in the recreation industry and the importance of learning from others who have succeeded. He also mentions several influential figures in the industry. 30:01 - He describes his operation in Lexington, Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Highlands. This area is notable for its diverse fisheries, including trout in cold-water streams and smallmouth bass and muskie in the warmer waters. 40:36 - Their busiest seasons are spring and fall, aligning with activities at the local universities. During these times, most clients are interested in trout fishing, specifically rainbow trout, which is primarily done through walk-in wade fishing in small streams. Bass fishing, on the other hand, is typically done by floating in rivers. 44:20 - He talks about fishing techniques, specifically for bass, using setups like a big dry fly with a small leech or wooly bugger — a method familiar to many as a dry dropper rig. This technique is effective for catching bass, and he explains the nuances of this approach. We also discuss the "popper bugger" setup. 48:38 - Derek mentions the Jackson River in Bath and Highland Counties, where one can find rainbow trout over 20 inches, although the typical size ranges from 10 to 14 inches. He also talks about Buffalo Creek and the Jackson River being good spots for brown trout, with some exceeding 20 inches. Derek notes that these large catches are not everyday occurrences. 54:35 - We talk about the history of Virginia in commemoration of Memorial Day. 1:00:41 - Derek highlights the prime seasons for different types of fishing, explaining that trout fishing in Virginia is best from September to May due to cooler temperatures, while summer months are ideal for smallmouth bass fishing. 1:06:42 - He provides a detailed account of his recent and upcoming trips, mentioning destinations like Cuba, Argentina, the Seychelles, the Spanish Pyrenees, and Iceland. He underscores the importance of coordinating his travel to not interfere with the peak demand periods in Virginia. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/631
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • 630 | The Fly Fishing Therapist with Melissa Ceren – TroutRoutes, Colorado, Mental Health

    630 | The Fly Fishing Therapist with Melissa Ceren – TroutRoutes, Colorado, Mental Health
    Jul 10 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/630

    Presented By: TroutRoutes

    Today's episode is one of a kind. We bridge the gap between fly fishing and mental health with Melissa Ceren, the fly fishing therapist. Learn about her distinct approach to mindful fishing, strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, and practical advice for therapy and angling.

    Find out in this episode how outdoor activities and mental wellness go hand in hand.

    Episode Chapters with Melissa Ceren on The Fly Fishing Therapist

    02:22 - It was Melissa's husband who first took her fly fishing. But her first experience was terrible due to an unfriendly guide.

    Her husband took her to an Alpine lake on her birthday, where she caught her first cutthroat trout. She fell in love with the sport and became a guide at Tumbling Trout within a year of starting fly fishing.

    Melissa's Journey into Counseling

    05:12 - Melissa has been in the counseling and mental health field for about eight years now. It all started when she joined the Suicide and Crisis hotline after high school.

    She later transitioned to leading outdoor outpatient programs for people recovering from substance abuse, focusing on trauma, anxiety, and depression.

    She pursued a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling at Clemson University and has been practicing as a therapist for three years now.

    Tips for Mindful Fishing
    Slow down and appreciate each moment, from catching fish to observing nature.
    Pay attention to your feelings and think about why you are feeling frustrated or disappointed.

    18:17 - Melissa addresses challenges like imposter syndrome and the pressure to perform as a guide, using positive self-talk to build confidence. Challenging negative thoughts can positively influence emotions and behaviors.

    Finding a Therapist

    25:47 - Melissa recommends Psychology Today's website for finding therapists by location, insurance type, and specialty. Here are some of her tips:

    Call multiple therapists to assess their suitability.
    It is important to feel comfortable and supported during initial conversations.
    Don't be discouraged if you don't find the right therapist on your first try. Not every initial match may feel perfect.

    Melissa also mentions crisis lines like the national suicide line and NAMI.

    Fishing Tips from the Fly Fishing Therapist
    36:54 - Hire a guide if you can afford it.
    Guides know the best spots.
    They have the right gear for rent.
    Watch online videos to improve casting techniques.
    Spend a lot of time on the water to learn from experience.
    Adjust depth to increase your chances of catching fish.
    Learn from mistakes, like losing a fish, and ask for advice on how to improve.


    TroutRoutes

    39:40 - Melissa likes TroutRoutes because it's easy to use and helps find less-fished streams and public access areas. It's especially useful in Colorado, where private property rules are strict. Here are some highlights she mentioned:

    Easy-to-navigate interface.
    Find less-fished streams and rivers.
    Ensures you're on public land.
    Keeps up-to-date land ownership information.
    Shows thousands of access points.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/630
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    57 mins
  • 629 | 5 Tips to Improve Your Fly Casting with Kaylyn Hoggard + Bruce Richards' 6-Step Casting Method

    629 | 5 Tips to Improve Your Fly Casting with Kaylyn Hoggard + Bruce Richards' 6-Step Casting Method
    Jul 8 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/629

    Presented By: Jackson Hole Fly Company, Visit Helena, MT, Togiak River Lodge, Waters West

    Have you ever been on the water and struggled with casting in the wind? Maybe things were going great, and then the wind started kicking up. Fish were feeding, but you couldn't make that cast, that perfect cast to hook up with those big fish. And what if I told you there were some easy drills you could do in your yard, just 30 minutes a week to prepare you to have more success on the water? My guest today is a certified casting instructor and coaches people both online and in person. and it is gonna help us level up our accuracy and distance fly casting this year.

    Kalyn Hoggard is here, a certified casting instructor and record-chasing brown trout master. He’s going to give us some tips in his favorite casting drills to have better success on the water this year. You’ll find out how to determine your max carry when casting and a drill around that exercise. And we’re also gonna find out when to haul for the most speed out and when to actually do it.

    You're gonna learn about the arc and how to know when to increase your arc or decrease your arc. And we're also gonna get Bruce Richards 6-Step Casting Method. This is gonna be awesome. Plus, did I mention that Kalyn is a brown trout hunter and has landed fish over 40 inches? All right, let's see how to level up our casting game and our big hunting skills.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/629
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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • 628 | Bay Island Expeditions with Cam Gordon - Honduras Fly Fishing, FishHound Expeditions, Saltwater Fishing

    628 | Bay Island Expeditions with Cam Gordon - Honduras Fly Fishing, FishHound Expeditions, Saltwater Fishing
    Jul 5 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/628

    Presented By: FishHound Expeditions

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    What is it about a trip to Central America that may be the one factor that will make this trip a trip of a lifetime? Is it the chance to catch a tarpon or a permit on a fly? Is it getting a break from the US winners for a warm, tropical location? Or is it the local food and people that make this trip magical? Cam Gordon is back on the podcast today to take us into a recently launched fishing lodge in Honduras. We find out how he built this lodge from the ground up, what makes this operation unique, and how you can do it yourself this year.

    Cam Gordon, FishHound Expeditions guide and Honduras fly lodge owner, is going to share the unique Hoduras experience. We find out what Cam thinks is the best time for fishing at this location. We're gonna find out what the island of util is like and how this is so much different than a lot of the places you're gonna head out to. We dig into this amazing little island, how it all happens, how to get there, and the fishing. We're gonna find out what it was like building this thing from the ground up to one of the most famous flats, fishing areas in the world. Plus, you're gonna find out how to think like a fly and to get more fish to take your offering this year. Time to travel to another spectacular fishing destination!

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/628
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • 627 | Hunt Gather Cook with Hank Shaw - Wild Game, Fish, Mushroom and Berries

    627 | Hunt Gather Cook with Hank Shaw - Wild Game, Fish, Mushroom and Berries
    Jul 3 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/627 Presented by: Skwala, Guide Book, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Waters West Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Hank Shaw, author of the book "Hunt, Gather, Cook" and a James Beard Award-winning chef, will guide us through his acclaimed books like "Buck, Buck, Moose" and "Hook, Line, and Supper," revealing secrets to achieving the perfect high-heat cooking techniques and ensuring your fish never sticks to the pan again. From identifying wild berries to mastering the art of cooking over an open fire, Hank's expertise will elevate your outdoor cooking game. Plus, we'll get a glimpse into his fascinating journey from political journalism to becoming a full-time hunter, fisherman, and gatherer. Get ready for an insightful and delicious adventure with Hank Shaw! Episode Chapters with Hank Shaw on Hunt Gather Cook 2:40 - Hank talks about his lifelong connection to fishing, stemming from his family background in Gloucester, Massachusetts. He recalls childhood memories of fishing and eating seafood. 5:54 - We delve into Hank's journey to becoming a notable figure in the cooking world. Hank recounts his early career as a restaurant cook while attending college and graduate school. He later transitioned to journalism, covering politics extensively, including two presidential campaigns. Since 2010, Hank has pursued food writing full-time, authoring five cookbooks with a sixth in progress. His blog and publications have allowed him to sustain a successful career in the culinary arts for over 14 years. 8:42 - Hank's first book, "Hunt, Gather, Cook" was based on his blog and published in 2011. He then authored "Duck, Duck, Goose" in 2013, followed by "Buck, Buck, Moose" in 2016, the first book he fully owned. Subsequent titles include "Pheasant, Quail, Cottontail" in 2018 and "Hook, Line, and Supper" in 2021. 12:08 - Hank gives valuable tips on frying fish. He emphasizes that certain types of fish, specifically fatty and soft varieties like trout and salmon, are not ideal for frying. Instead, he recommends whitefish, which are leaner and firmer, for better frying results. One critical advice he offers is to use high heat when frying, as insufficiently hot oil leads to greasy food. Properly heated oil sets the batter and cooks the fish from the inside out, preventing oil from seeping in and making the fish soggy. 15:11 - For cooking trout, Hank suggests using smoke and fire because trout, particularly wild trout, are fatty and soft. He mentions methods such as smoking, smoke roasting, and grilling. He highlights the importance of using a clean, hot, and oiled grate to prevent the fish from sticking, which is a common issue when grilling fish. Hank advises against fiddling with the fish on the grill, noting that once the fish can be moved easily, it’s ready to be flipped, and typically, he only flips the fish once. 21:22 - He discusses the nuances of cooking wild game, particularly focusing on venison. He touches upon common mistakes made by novice cooks, such as overcooking tender cuts and undercooking tougher parts. Hank emphasizes that proper cooking techniques are crucial, providing tips like letting the meat rest and using pan sauces to finish undercooked cuts. 25:17 - Hank ranks different types of fuel for grilling. He advocates for wood as the best option due to its flavor and smoke, followed by lump charcoal, briquettes, and propane. He also underscores that wood provides the best results, but requires more effort and skill. 27:51 - He talks about how he cuts wild game. In cutting deer, he would take the backstrap off, clean it up, and cut it into lengths. 29:47 - He explains the step-by-step process of doing the finger test for doneness for cooking meat. 31:40 - We talk about the safety concerns associated with eating raw fish, particularly focusing on sushi. Hank emphasizes that the primary vector for tapeworms in the US is trout sushi and strongly advises against eating raw trout unless it has been properly frozen. He also touches on the risks associated with eating freshwater salmon, which can carry tapeworms once in rivers. Hank recommends freezing the fish for about a week to ensure its safety for raw consumption. He also notes that other species of fish may not require such precautions. 33:54 - Hank explains the difference between pelagic and benthic fish. Pelagic fish, such as tuna, mackerel, and bluefish, live in the middle or top layers of the water, whereas benthic fish, like flounder, live on or near the bottom. 37:18 - Hank discusses his book "Hunt, Gather, Cook," describing it as a primer on various wild activities like fishing, foraging, and hunting. The book aims to inspire and provide foundational knowledge for those looking to delve into these fields, whether they are experienced in one area or new to another. 38:51 - For those in the Midwest or the East, Hank recommends the books by Samuel Thayer which he says are some of the best ...
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Traveled #20 | Exploring the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo with Bruce Staples - Yellowstone, Fly Tying, Trout

    Traveled #20 | Exploring the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo with Bruce Staples - Yellowstone, Fly Tying, Trout
    Jul 1 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/626

    Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory

    Bruce Staples, author of multiple books on fishing in the Yellowstone area, is back to
    take us to the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo.

    You'll find out what you can expect for the next one in 2025. You'll also get some of the best flies for fishing in Yellowstone Country and a little insight into Sheridan Lake and other lakes around the country.

    You'll also hear about some of Bruce's favorite books and the people you should follow this season.

    Episode Chapters with Bruce Staples on the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo

    Planning a large fishing event is no easy task. I've planned smaller trips and schools that have required considerable effort, and it's hard to imagine what planning a fly fishing tying expo would be like.

    Bruce Staples did just that and has brought back and created one of the biggest fishing expos of its kind.

    2024 East Idaho Fly Tying Expo

    03:18 - Bruce says that the 2024 East Idaho Fly Tying Expo was a huge success with a massive crowd and fly tyers from all over, even Florida and Ohio.

    They had around 40 commercial vendors and kept the same layout from 2023.

    05:09 - For 2025, they plan to start prepping in September. They've signed a three-year contract with the Mountain America Center that will end in 2025.

    Bruce said they will likely renew because the center is a great venue. It is used for many community events, including hockey games by the Spud Kings, concerts, and basketball tournaments.

    Books by Bruce Staples

    08:39 - Bruce first started writing in the 1990s. His first three books were done for Frank Amato Publications:

    Snake River Country: Flies and Waters (1991)
    Yellowstone Park (1996)
    Trout Country Flies: From Greater Yellowstone Area Masters (2002)

    Later Works:
    Flies for the Greater Yellowstone Area
    Fly Fishing the Greater Yellowstone Backcountry
    Fly Fishing West Yellowstone: A History and Guide

    12:30 - Bruce shared how "Fly Fishing West Yellowstone: A History and Guide" came together. He teamed up with Bob Jacklyn, who provided valuable historical insights and photos. Craig Mathews also contributed his expertise.

    Check out our episode with Bob here and with Craig here!

    21:05 - Bruce shared some hidden fishing spots from his "Fly Fishing the Greater Yellowstone Backcountry" book.

    28:32 - Bruce discussed fishing at Eagle Ridge Ranch. The owner, Frank VanderSloot, is a prominent figure in Idaho known for founding Melaleuca, a wellness company.

    34:15 Sheridan Lake is a moderate-sized lake offering good fishing. Fishing techniques include using midges, snails, leech patterns, and streamers, which are especially effective in the fall.

    More About The East Idaho Fly Tying Expo

    38:20 - There are also workshops and demos by expert flytyers like Steven Fernandez and iconic figures like Mike Lawson. There are tying workshops, commercial vendors, and an annual banquet with a live auction.

    48:31 - Bruce talks about the exciting plans for the 2025 event. The website will soon have info on vendors and activities starting in February. Many participants from 2024 will return because it was a success.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/626
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    56 mins