The Portland Fly Shop Podcast

Welcome back to The Portland Fly Shop Podcast! In this episode, we dive into two core elements of successful steelheading with a spey rod: sink tips and fly selection. We start with a breakdown of sink tips—how they work, why we use them, and how to choose the right one for changing river conditions. Whether you’re new to spey casting or dialing in your winter setup, we’ll help simplify the process so you can fish more confidently and effectively.

In the second half, we shift into fly selection for steelhead. We talk size, profile, color...

In this episode of our Pacific Northwest steelhead fly fishing podcast, we break down two of the most important topics for new and seasoned anglers alike:

Part 1: Spey Gear Selection – rods, reels, lines, tips, and how to balance your setup for success.
Part 2: Your First Day on the River – reading water, understanding steelhead holding lies, basic swing techniques, and how to approach a run with confidence.

Whether you’re just starting your steelhead journey or looking to fine-tune your setup and approach, this episode will help you hit the water prepared.

Don’t forget...

Description:
Welcome to the first episode of our Pacific Northwest Steelhead Fly Fishing series! 

Join hosts Jason Osborn and Nick Wheeler—each with over 20 years of guiding experience and deep roots in the fly fishing industry—as we kick things off with:

Our background, guiding history, and time on legendary PNW rivers.

What makes steelhead so unique (and addictive).

Steelhead lore, culture, and the passion that drives this community.

A few behind-the-scenes guide stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Whether you’re new to steelheading or a seas...

Join us for a deep dive into one of Oregon’s most iconic trout fisheries — the McKenzie River. In this episode, we sit down with veteran guide Jim Sens to break down everything you need to know before hitting the water. From prime bank access points, to the major seasonal hatches and go-to fly patterns, we cover it all in technical detail. Whether you're floating or walking in, this episode is packed with tips that will help you fish the McKenzie smarter.

🎣 Topics covered:
• Best flies by season
• Reading water from the bank
• Key public access...

Looking to master lake fly fishing near Mt. Hood and Southwest Washington? This podcast episode covers everything you need to succeed on the water—from choosing the best lake flies and reading stillwater to understanding fish behavior, selecting the right fly lines, and dialing in your presentation techniques.

We break down:

Top fly patterns for high mountain and lowland lakes

How to read lake structure and find feeding fish

Seasonal strategies

Floating, intermediate & sinking line setups

Proven retrieves, rigs, and gear recommendations

Whether you’re fish...

In this episode of the Portland Fly Shop Podcast, we sit down with seasoned guide and Alaska DIY expert Jacob Zirkle to explore how you can launch your own fly fishing trip straight from the Anchorage airport. From rental cars to gear strategy, fish timing to backcountry access—Jacob shares practical insights and local knowledge to help you plan a successful, affordable, and unforgettable Alaska fly fishing adventure.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with legendary Deschutes River guide Brian Silvey as we break down everything you need to know about fly fishing the Deschutes during the summer months. From understanding water temps and hatch cycles to picking the right flies and fishing the best times of day, this episode is packed with knowledge for both new and seasoned anglers. We cover:

🎣 Key summer hatches (PMDs, Caddis, and more)
🌞 How mid-day sun and temps affect fish behavior
🕓 Best times of day to be on the water
🪰 Fly patterns that consistently produce
📍 River access, s...

Welcome to the podcast! In this episode, we're diving deep into the exciting world of shad fly fishing on two of the Pacific Northwest’s iconic rivers — the Columbia and Willamette. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, this is your one-stop guide to chasing shad on the fly. We cover everything you need to know, including: 🔍 Water types shad prefer and how to read the river 🎯 Line selection: sink tips, shooting heads & more 🎣 Rod and reel setups that work best for shad 📍 Best locations to find shad on both rivers 🌊 Tide influence and how it affects your timing 🪰 Fly p...

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to build an inclusive, supportive fly fishing community—especially for new anglers and women who are stepping into the sport for the first time. Our guest Callie Freeman, shares their journey, challenges, and how creating space for connection, mentorship, and encouragement is changing the face of fly fishing. From local meetups to online forums, we talk about the power of showing up, asking questions, and finding your tribe on the water. Whether you're brand new to fly fishing, looking for community, or want to help others feel welcome in the sp...

🎣 Unlock the Secrets to a Legendary Deschutes Salmonfly Hatch! Welcome to The Portland Fly Shop Podcast – your go-to source for expert fly fishing insights! In this episode, veteran guides Jason and Nick (with over 40 years combined experience on the Deschutes River) break down everything you need to crush the Salmonfly hatch this season. From proven techniques to overlooked tips that make all the difference, this is your insider’s guide to making this year’s hatch your most successful one yet.

✅ Pro tips

✅ Gear recommendations

✅ What works (and what doesn't)

✅ Lessons from decades on t...

🎣 Looking to fish Oregon’s rivers without going too far from Portland? In this episode, we explore the best river fishing opportunities within a 90-minute drive of Portland, Oregon. Whether you're after salmon, steelhead, trout, or smallmouth bass, we’ve got you covered with insider tips. From the Clackamas and Sandy Rivers to the Willamette and Nestucca, we break down the top spots, what to bring, and what to expect. Perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike! 📍Areas Covered Coast Range Willamette Valley Cascade Range 🎧 Hit play and get ready to plan your afterwork dry fly fishing! #FishingOregon #PortlandFishing #RiverFishing...