#805 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/805

Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Intrepid Camp Gear, Mountain Waters Resort, Patagonia

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Ever find yourself standing on a river’s edge, the line in the water, and somehow everything makes sense, even when nothing should? That’s where I landed with Jonathan “Jon” Gluck, a writer, editor, and fly-fishing lifer—or at least, someone whose lifeline came through steelhead-strength treatments and the quiet grace of a swing.

Jon was told he had about 18 months to live after a multiple myeloma diagnosis more than two de...

#804 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/804 

Presented by: Stonefly Nets, Intrepid Camp Gear, San Juan Rodworks

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        

Phil Rowley breaks down the world of sinking lines—why and when to use them, how to pick the right one, and the tricks that make them effective. From understanding sink rates and densities to choosing leaders and rigging setups, Phil shares practical tactics that can help you fish deeper and smarter on lakes.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/804   

803 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/803

Presented by: TroutRoutes

If you’re curious about Michigan steelhead and salmon fishing, this episode is for you.

Christian Gradowski swings streamers under city bridges, strips flies for kings in water warmer than most trout would tolerate, all while capturing it all on film. 

You’ll learn how to read tricky currents without obvious structure, get prepped for Great Lakes kings, and why July bass fishing can actually teach you how to swing in November. Christian keeps it real, sharing stories from the gravel runs of the M...

Show Notes:https://wetflyswing.com/802

Presented By: Intrepid Camp Gear

Sponsors:https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Mckenzie Johns’ fly fishing road trips have taken her from small Pennsylvania streams to epic solo journeys across the Rockies. On her recent fly fishing road trip from Colorado to Alberta, Mckenzie combined her passion for trout fishing with the freedom of rooftop tent camping, traveling with her blue heeler, and testing the Intrepid Geo Solo tent. Along the way, she shared how fitness helps her stay strong and confident outdoors, making long days on th...

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/801

Presented By: Grand Teton Fly Fishing, FishHound Expeditions, Togiak River Lodge

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Today's guest traded trout strains for silk thread vintage hooks, and the history-packed world of classic fly tying never looked back. From his first salmon fly at age 12 to becoming a leading voice in preserving old school craftsmanship, Tony Smith has spent decades chasing the perfect thread wrap. By the end of this episode, you'll know what really defines a classic salmon fly, why wax silk and antique hooks still matter, and...

#800 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/800 

Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, Intrepid Camp Gear, Mountain Waters Resort, Patagonia

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors       

In this episode, we sit down with Robert “Bob” Lindquist of Flies for Fish to talk all about fly fishing the Delaware River. Bob grew up fishing Montauk beaches from a ’55 Willys Jeep, learned to tie flies on common nails, and eventually dedicated his life to guiding and teaching others on one of the most technical tailwaters in the East.

We dive into how to read rise forms, why line ma...

799 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/799

Presented by:  San Juan Rodworks, Visit Idaho, Jackson Hole Fly Company, TroutRoutes

Looking to unlock the secrets of night fishing for brown trout? Imagine swinging mice and streamers under the glow of your headlamp, hooking big browns long after the sun goes down.

In this episode, you’ll discover how glow-in-the-dark flies work, why unweighted streamers can turn the bite on, and how to read water by feel, not sight.

Frank Landis, a Pennsylvania fly fishing guide, shares his expert insights on stream temperatures, seasonal triggers, the...

#798 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/798

In this episode of CJ’s Reel Southern Podcast, Chad brings on his fishing crew — a mix of guides and friends he’s traveled and fished with for years. They share funny and crazy stories from the water, like breaking gear, getting stuck in shallow flats, and even mistaking big bonefish for sharks.

The crew talks about the teamwork it takes to fish together, the challenges of different waters like the Louisiana marsh and Florida flats, and how they’ve learned (and laughed) through plenty of mistakes. They also share how to bo...

#797 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/797 

Presented by: Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, San Juan Rodworks, Intrepid Camp Gear

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors       

If you’ve ever dreamed to fly fish Belize on your terms to chase bonefish and permit, this episode is for you. We’re heading to Ambergris Caye where Mary Alice Hoppe and her husband Chris created Iguana House, a beachfront lodge built with DIY anglers in mind. In this episode, Mary Alice shares what it’s really like to run a fishing lodge, how to plan your trip for tailing perm...

796 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/796

Presented by:  Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions

Would you rather compete at the World Fly Fishing Championships or spend a season guiding on the San Juan River?

Today’s guest made that leap from Team USA gold medalist to full-time San Juan River guide. He’s dialing in tiny size 26 midges, handling 40-fish days, and teaching anglers how to hook 20-inch browns on a 6X tippet.

By the end of this episode, you’ll learn how to fish the San Juan's tailouts, why ant falls spark some of...

#795 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/795 

Presented by: Pescador on the Fly 

We head to western Montana with Jake Hensley to talk about Missoula fly fishing. With nearly 20 years of guiding experience, Jake breaks down the essentials of fishing the Bitterroot, Clark Fork, and Rock Creek - three of Missoula’s most iconic rivers. We cover how to rig for high water, why dry-dropper setups are so effective, and what makes floating Rock Creek such a game-changer. Whether you’re new to the area or planning your tenth trip, Jake’s got real tips to help you fish...

#794 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/794 

Presented by: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Visit Helena, MT, San Juan Rodworks, Togiak River Lodge

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors       

In this episode, we take a heartfelt journey into the life of one of steelhead fishing's most influential figures, Lani Waller. Through his brother Jack Waller, we hear untold stories about Lani’s early years, his deep connection to rivers, and the life-changing events that shaped him. From a childhood trauma that led him to the fly rod to the plane crash that forever changed his path, Jack shares what ma...

793 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/793

Presented by:  Jackson Hole Fly Company, Pescador on the Fly, Four Wheel Campers, 

Smitty's Fly Box

When you think of Alaska, you probably picture places like Bristol Bay or the Kenai Peninsula. But tucked away in southeast Alaska is the Tongass National Forest, a wild, untouched rainforest full of remote streams where you could be the only angler for miles around.

Sounds pretty awesome, right?

Kevin Main from Tongass on the Fly spends his days guiding fly anglers through some of the most untouched riv...

#792 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/792 

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors    

Join us in one of our biggest episodes as we journey into a world that combines the thrill of the outdoors with a passion for conservation. This episode offers an intriguing dialogue featuring Craig Mathews and Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia Founder and an iconic figure in the outdoor world; unraveling their love for fly fishing, their unique backstories, and their shared principles around the sport and beyond.

This is a replay episode from 2023 and also one of our most downloaded episodes so it's great to l...

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/791

Presented By: Pescador on the Fly, Patagonia, Mountain Waters Resort, Intrepid Camp Gear.

Sponsors: Https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

On this episode, we sit down with Wesley Hodges, a decorated military veteran turned premier fly fishing and hunting guide in Virginia. Wesley shares the wild journey that led him from a cane pole in Texas to discovering fly fishing at a Boy Scout camp, to a life-changing decision made in a tiki bar in Ecuador. What followed was the creation of Virginia’s first dedicated fly fishing and hunting lodge...

#790 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/790

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

We're bringing back one of the classics for this special summer re-release — an early episode that quickly became a listener favorite. Originally Episode 13, this conversation with Michigan guide Kevin Feenstra is packed with insights on swinging flies for steelhead on the Muskegon River.

Kevin breaks down his approach to fishing year-round, how he reads the water, and what makes the Muskegon such a unique place to chase steelhead. He also shares some of his thoughts on fly patterns, presentation, and how fish respond to...

789 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/789

This summer, we’re diving back into the archives to bring you a classic episode: Episode 334 with the one and only Henry Winkler.

Henry, the actor, author, producer, and passionate angler, joins us to talk about fly fishing, his legendary career, and his inspiring life story.

We dive into his experience turning down Grease, landing his role on HBO’s Barry, and how he’s thrived while living with dyslexia.

Plus, we explore his books, movies, and the surprising ways fly fishing and acting connect.

Get...

#788 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/788

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

This summer, we’re bringing back a favorite from the archive—originally released as episode 348, this conversation with Norman Maktima is packed with stillwater insights.

Norman, a Team USA fly fishing competitor and guide at High Desert Angler, shared a deep dive into stillwater strategies—from euro-nymphing tactics to lake structure, fly line selection, and subtle boat positioning tips. Whether you're working leeches, chironomids, or just trying to improve your game, Norman brings the technical know-how with a grounded, fishy vibe. We also hear ab...

#787 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/787 

Presented by: Moccasin Fly Club

We chat with John Hunt of Moccasin Fly Club to talk about some top travel tips for DIY fly fishing, from organizing your gear to navigating rental car challenges in places like Mexico. We also dive into what makes hosted trips worth it, how to break into saltwater fishing, and what a day in the life looks like at their Colorado and New Mexico lodges. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first out-of-town fishing trip, this episode is packed with practical advice to...

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/786

Presented By: Fish The Fly, Stonefly Nets, On DeMark Lodge, Visit Idaho. 

BoneFishing in Hawaii might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of saltwater adventures, but for Marine veteran Mike Bressler, it's become both a calling and a way of life. In this episode, we head to the island of Oahu to uncover what makes Hawaii’s flats fishery so unique—and so challenging. From bonefish (known locally as ō‘io) to golden trevally, Mike shares what it’s like to guide in one of the Pacific’s...

#785B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/785B

Presented By: Togiak River Lodge

Jordan Larsen didn’t grow up with a fly rod in hand. In fact, he used to avoid fly shops entirely. But one summer filming anglers in Alaska changed everything. In this episode, we hear how Jordan went from lodge videographer to lodge owner, how spey casting rekindled his passion for fishing, and what it’s really like building a fly fishing program from the ground up—in one of the most remote places on earth.

You’ll learn about the challenge...

785 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/785   Presented by:   Four Wheel Campers, Patagonia, Jackson Hole Fly Company   If you’ve listened to Phil’s two-part series on making sense of Stillwater fly lines, you probably get why this topic is so important. For anyone new to stillwater fly fishing, understanding fly lines, leaders, and tippets can be confusing. But when you’re fishing lakes, knowing your gear options, especially the right fly line, leader, and tippet, is key to success.   Today, Chris Walker from Rio Products joins our Stillwater guru to dive deep into fly lines, leaders, and tippets tailored for stillwater fishing. Th...

#784 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/784

Presented By: Mountain Waters Resort, FishHound Expeditions, Pescador on the Fly

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Today's guest takes us where technology meets the river. He shared the stage with Bill Gates multiple times, leads the charge in AI, and still finds time to run a guide business in the Sierras. We're heading into California to explore its wide variety of fly fishing, from bays to the beaches, to Baja and high mountain streams chasing golden trout. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with fresh to...

#783 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/783 

Presented by: Grand Teton Fly Fishing, Togiak River Lodge, Intrepid Camp Gear, Smitty's Fly Box

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors      

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to swing flies for giant rainbows on one of Alaska’s most famous rivers, this episode is for you. We sit down with Jack Mitchell of The Evening Hatch to dig into Kvichak River fly fishing. Jack shares what makes this river so special, how his late-season program came together, and why swinging flies here is unlike anywhere else. You’ll also...

782 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/782

Presented by:  Mountain Waters Resort

Les Wentzell, founder of Mountain Waters Resort and our guide on this year’s big trip, breaks down fishing for Atlantic Salmon on Portland Creek. You’ll hear why a WiFi signal is the perfect way to think about covering water.

Plus, get the scoop on what to do the moment you get a hookup, why a dead-straight cast can make or break your day, and Les’s simple but powerful leader formula, the secret weapon every angler needs. Here’s Les Wenzel from Moun...

#781 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/781

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

In episode #4 of CJ’s Reel Southern Podcast, Chad Johnson kicks things off with a July fishing report from the White and Norfolk Rivers, highlighting the sulfur hatch and prime hopper season. The transition from sulfur in the evening to hoppers during the day opens up a ton of topwater opportunities, while nymphing with girdle bugs and pheasant tails remains productive. Chad shares fly suggestions like the Fat Albert, Psycho Ant, PMX, and two-bit hookers—solid patterns for the Ozark summer bite. The brief segment wraps...

#780 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/780 

Presented by: Visit Idaho 

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to truly dial in Idaho fly fishing, today’s episode is for you. We’re joined by David Raisch, longtime guide at the Lodge at Palisades Creek and co-founder of Hawgfish, who has spent the last 25 years exploring some of the most diverse and overlooked fisheries in the West.

From the famous Henry’s Fork to the sprawling South Fork of the Snake, all the way to the ledges of American Falls, David has seen it all. And...

779 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/779

Presented by:  Stonefly Nets, Fish The Fly, Patagonia, Four Wheel Campers

Stillwater Fishing can feel like a mystery if you're not sure where to start. Should you go with a balanced leech or a chironomid? Use an indicator or not? And hey, does trolling still count?

In this episode, we're joined by Greg Keenan, host of the Stillwater Edge podcast and a guy who lives and breathes lake fishing. Greg breaks down his systematic approach to Stillwater, shares his hybrid leader setup, and talks about how to actually fi...

778B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/778B

Presented by:  Visit Idaho

Jack Arnot, Team USA angler and dry fly tactician, is here to break down what it really takes to fish on the surface when the pressure’s on. From the Colorado Rockies to the technical rivers of Europe, Jack shares what it’s like to compete in world-class fly fishing events and how you can apply those same dry fly skills to your own local waters.

We get into everything from gear setups to scouting new water (even when nothing’s rising), and why...

#778 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/778

Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Visit Idaho, Intrepid Camp Gear

In today’s episode of In the Bucket podcast, we’re joined by George Cook, Dec Hogan, Scott O’Donnell, and Joseph Rossano—four deeply respected voices in spey fishing, fly culture, and steelhead conservation. With decades of experience guiding, designing flies, telling stories, and fighting for fish, this crew brings insight and emotion to every swing of the conversation.

We dig into the heavy realities facing steelhead today—closures, declining returns, and tough conversations around catch and release. G...

#777 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/777    

Presented by: Fish The Fly, Patagonia, Jackson Hole Fly Company, San Juan Rodworks 

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors      

In this episode, we're joined by Josh Nugent from Out Fly Fishing to talk all about fly fishing the Bow River. Josh shares what makes this river so special, how to plan your trip, and even some surprising lessons from his time studying the world’s best fly casters.

When it comes to legendary trout rivers in North America, Alberta's Bow River is near the top of the list. Flowi...

#776 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/776

Presented By: Patagonia, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Visit Idaho 

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

In this episode of the Great Lakes Dude Podcast, Jeff is joined by industry rep Phil Cook, one of the most respected fly anglers in the region. Phil shares his journey from growing up fishing Michigan’s Au Sable River to leading Backeddy Sales, where he represents top fly fishing brands. They talk about the evolution of Great Lakes fly fishing—from streamer innovations to smallmouth bass tactics, the rise of Atlantic salmon, and huntin...

#775 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/775    

Presented by: San Juan Rodworks, Mountain Waters Resort, Togiak River Lodge, Patagonia

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors     

In this episode, we head to the Southeast to explore South Carolina fly fishing with Mike Watts of Rivers and Feathers. From chasing wild trout in the Southern Appalachians to building community through Clemson University’s fly fishing club, Mike shares what makes his home waters so special. If you’re curious about Southeast fly fishing, small stream tactics, or want a glimpse into a growing regional fly fishing scene, this episode is...

#774 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/774

Presented By: San Juan Rodworks, Stonefly Nets, Pescador on the Fly, Intrepid Camp Gear

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Brian Wise, streamer fanatic fly tyer, and the guy behind fly fishing the Ozarks, joins us today to share some of his hard-earned lessons that he's picked up from guiding and fishing Missouri's famed trout water. You'll find out why weightless streamers might be your new best friend. How slack kills a good presentation and what fly design really matters when chasing big browns. Plus, Brian's gonna walk us t...

773B Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/773B

Presented by: Moccasin Fly Club

 
We’re back with John Hunt from Moccasin Fly Club, and this time he’s giving us the ultimate fly fishing and hunting roadmap for Colorado and New Mexico. From the Colorado River to the South Platte and even into New Mexico’s San Juan, John lays out his top 10 spots to hit this year — some big names and a few hidden gems too.
 

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/773B

#773 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/773    

Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, FishHound Expeditions, Four Wheel Campers

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors      

We sit down with Kirk Deeter, editor of Trout Magazine and one of the most recognizable voices in fly fishing media. From the challenges facing today's fisheries to the stories behind the stories he publishes, Kirk opens up about the role of journalism, conservation, and storytelling in the fly fishing world. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or deeply involved in river advocacy, Kirk offers insight on how you can engage more deeply wi...

#772 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/772

Presented By: Intrepid Camp Gear, Visit Idaho, Smitty's Fly Box, FishHound Expeditions

In today's show, we have the return visit from a veteran guide and industry professional, Eric Leininger. You may recall Eric was on the show back in In the Bucket episode #5 with Stu Foxall and Scoop Mason. Today, Eric is going to be joined by his good buddy, Zach Carothers, the guy who stepped aside from a successful music career to follow and share a passion for fly fishing as he pursues a new career as a guide...

#771 Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/771B

Presented by: Visit Idaho 

In this episode, we have Jess Westbrook, an expert in the world of youth fly fishing and giving back in a big way. From mentoring foster kids to helping lead one of the most dominant youth teams in fly fishing. This conversation is full of inspiration, tactical tips and techniques.  Find out why top anglers adapt quickly to changing conditions.

#771 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/771

Presented by:  TroutRoutes, Intrepid Camp Gear, Fish The Fly, Jackson Hole Fly Company

 
In this follow-up episode, Phil Rowley is back with Jerry McBride, one of the key people who helped create the Balanced Flies. He's here to break down exactly how he fishes these flies on Stillwater lakes. 

If you’ve ever tied on a balanced leech and wondered, “Now what?”, this episode is packed with all the gear, presentation tips, and little-known tricks you need to get dialed in.
 

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.

#770 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/770   

Presented by: San Juan Rodworks 

In this episode, we’re joined by Gary Davis, the founder of San Juan Rodworks. Gary shares his unique journey from the golf course to the world of fly rods. We dive into how his background in golf and a passion for music influence his approach to fly rod design. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler looking for an upgrade, Gary breaks down the importance of rod action, offers tips for beginners, and explains why quality matters more than price.

S...