Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/585B Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors In this episode of "In The Bucket," we dive into the captivating world of fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest, a region celebrated for its majestic landscapes and challenging steelhead fishing. Joined by seasoned anglers Dax Messett and Scott Baker Mcgarva, listeners are treated to an engaging discussion filled with expert casting tips, memorable fish stories, and practical advice for making the most out of guided fly fishing trips. Whether you're a veteran angler or just starting out, Dax and Scott's insights into the nuances of successfully landing steelhead, the evolution of fly fishing gear, and the importance of conservation efforts offer invaluable lessons that promise to enrich your fly fishing experience and ignite your passion for the sport. Topics Discussed in the Episode The unique draw and challenge of steelhead fishing in the Pacific Northwest. Transitioning from guiding to tackle sales and what it teaches about the fishing industry. The evolution of fly fishing gear and techniques over decades. The importance of conservation efforts to sustain the sport for future generations. How varying water conditions and seasons affect fly fishing strategies. The cultural shift in fly fishing from the 1970s to today, with insights into gear and technique evolution. Personal anecdotes from guiding on renowned rivers, highlighting memorable catches and lessons learned. Strategies for successful fly fishing, including casting tips and reading river conditions. The significance of community and shared knowledge in the fly fishing world. Debates on gear preferences and the philosophy behind choosing equipment. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/585B

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/585 Presented By:  Waters West, Northern Rockies Adventures, Togens Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions Have you heard of the Gaspé Peninsula and thought maybe it was out of your reach for a trip? Are you worried that your spey game isn't at a high enough level to hook a salmon? Today, we have David Bishop to share tips for success and three key takeaways that will ensure you not only can do this trip but have a chance at hooking an Atlantic Salmon. Learn about fly speed, when to use dry flies versus wet flies, and uncover a fly pattern you may not have seen before. Discover how to recognize a take and why David recommends using 6lb and 8lb tippets. Show Notes with David Bishop on Gaspe Peninsula Atlantic Salmon.  01:38 - David Bishop delves into the unique challenge of fishing for Atlantic salmon and why it's often seen as an intimidating species: Species Specificity: Atlantic salmon are highly dependent on water conditions and fish behavior, unlike other species that may feed more readily. Success Rate: Internationally, the success rate for catching Atlantic salmon can be challenging, with an average of about one salmon per three days of effort. Enigmatic Nature: The mystery surrounding why Atlantic salmon take flies adds to the allure and complexity of fishing for them. Exploring the Diverse Rivers of Gaspe Peninsula 4:00 - Rivers in the Gaspé Peninsula vary in fish population and size, with some rivers known for smaller but abundant fish runs, while others like the Caspapedia River boast large, genetically healthy fish. The Gaspé Peninsula is hailed as the most accessible salmon fishing destination globally, thanks to the democratic draw system implemented by the Quebec government. 9:00 - Gaspe Peninsula offers a plethora of rivers for salmon fishing, and anglers can also explore nearby areas like the St. Lawrence River and New Brunswick for additional fishing opportunities. Compared to other international destinations, fishing in Gaspe is affordable, with daily ticket costs ranging from $60 to $180. David Bishop's Fly Fishing Journey 14:17 - David Bishop shares his early memories of fly fishing, tracing back to childhood experiences with his father and grandfather behind Simsbury High School. At the age of 10, David caught his first Atlantic salmon. Then at age 14, David worked at a fly shop and later ventured into guiding. Access to Fishing in the Gaspe Peninsula 17:00 - David elaborates on the democratic access system in the Gaspe Peninsula. Unlike some regions with exclusive and elite fishing practices, Gaspe's model ensures public access while balancing private interests. The lottery-based system ensures that a percentage of water remains open to the public each day, with clear guidelines on pricing. Comparatively, regions like the UK and Norway maintain a more privatized approach, limiting access based on wealth and waiting lists. 24:00 - There are two main ways to access the rivers: purchasing a daily access permit for non-reserved waters or participating in the draws organized by the FQSA. Saumon Quebec provides information on river access, draws, and permits. 27:00 - David Bishop discusses various lodging options for anglers visiting the Gaspe Peninsula. Choosing the Best Time for Atlantic Salmon Fishing in the Gaspe Peninsula 36:00 - For hardcore spey anglers, early June or late September are ideal for fishing gin-clear waters with fewer competitors. However, the prime time for dry fly fishing is from late June through August into early September when water temperatures are optimal. Dry Flies vs Wet Flies  45:00 - David explains the transition from wet fly to dry fly fishing based on water conditions and visibility. He distinguishes between rivers with clear visibility and those with stained waters. Clear Rivers (e.g., Bonaventure, Petite Cascapedia): Optimal for site fishing and dry fly opportunities. Stained Rivers (e.g., Cascapedia, Dartmouth): You can switch to dry flies if no action with wet flies is observed. 46:00 - When not fishing dry flies, David Bishop describes his typical setup and approach for different months and water conditions: In June with higher water, he uses larger flies ranging from size 2 to 3.0 for swinging traditional salmon flies. Some favorite flies include John Olin Longwing, Picasse, and Paul Caron's Stonefly. Fly Speed and Presentation David stresses that fly presentation plays a massive role, comprising about 90% of the success in fly fishing. He also mentions that fly selection is only about 5% of the game, debunking the idea of a "best fly". He explains that using floating lines allows him to manipulate fly speed effectively. By adjusting casting angles and mending downstream, he can control how fast the fly moves across the water, which is crucial for enticing strikes. His strategy involves covering as much water as possible to find fish that are actively taking the fly. He prefers this approach over repeatedly casting in the same spot, focusing on quality fish rather than sheer numbers. Spey Fishing Gear and Technique 59:00 - David recommends using a 12.5-foot rod ranging from 450 to 540 grain weights, with a preference for 480 or 450. He emphasizes using long leaders of 15 to 20 feet for better fly tracking and action. David also highlights the importance of tapered leaders for efficient casting and fly presentation. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/585

Show Notes;  https://wetflyswing.com/getting-started-with-fly-fishing-the-best-tips-from-600-podcast-episodes/ Fly fishing might seem daunting to beginners, but with insights from over 600 podcast interviews, today’s episode with Dave, the host of the Wet Fly Swing podcast, simplifies the process. From a powerful story of failure and frustration on a Montana trout stream to practical tips from experienced anglers, we've got you covered. Episode Summary: [0:03] Dave introduces the episode by addressing the common barriers to starting fly fishing and promises to provide a clear path for beginners. [0:50] The host shares his background in fly fishing, his journey with the Wet Fly Swing podcast, and the aim of the current solo episode. [1:34] The episode promises to offer practical tips for beginners, including insights from an interview with Brian from Mad River Outfitters. [2:15] A memorable story from a senior trip to Montana illustrates the frustrations that can come with learning fly fishing, setting the stage for the tips to follow. [5:10] Insight #1: Getting a guide or joining a group can significantly flatten the learning curve for beginners. [7:16] Insight #2: The importance of observation before and during fishing to understand the environment and fish behavior. [10:05] Insight #3: The value of practicing casting outside of fishing trips to improve technique and confidence. [12:24] Insight #4: On the water, opt for smaller and sparser flies than you might initially think. [13:50] Insight #5: Embrace the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle in all aspects of fly fishing to avoid feeling overwhelmed. [17:16] Bonus Tip: Engaging with local conservation groups can enhance your fly fishing experience and contribute to the preservation of fish species. [20:03] Brian from Mad River Outfitters shares six practical tips for beginners, emphasizing versatile flies, matching the hatch, and the importance of adaptability. Conclusion: [25:41] Dave wraps up the episode encouraging listeners to embrace the journey into fly fishing, sharing their stories, and reminding them of the resources available at Wet Fly Swing. Whether you're brand new to the sport or looking to share the joy of fly fishing with someone else, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to getting started.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/584   Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/troutroutes     In this episode, McKenna Hulslander takes us on an exhilarating journey through her most recent backcountry fly fishing trip, offering insider tips and thrilling stories from the wild. McKenna reveals how she combines technology, like the TroutRoutes app, with traditional angling wisdom to enhance safety, navigation, and fish finding on remote trips. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, McKenna's insights on preparing for the unexpected, choosing the right gear, and conserving our precious aquatic ecosystems will inspire you to tackle your next fishing adventure with confidence and respect for nature. Join us as McKenna shares the highs and lows of her journey, from exhilarating catches to surviving a plane crash, all while showcasing the beauty and challenges of wilderness fishing. Episode Chapters with McKenna Hulslander on Backcountry Fly Fishing 1:22 - With a childhood rooted in the outdoor traditions of her family, McKenna was naturally drawn to the rivers and streams of northwest Montana. Her story is not just about fly fishing; it intertwines with her pursuits in athletics, notably college hockey. 8:06 - McKenna shares the inspiring journey behind her wilderness fly fishing trip in Montana, highlighting the unique blend of adventure, conservation, and education that fueled the expedition. With a desire to share this rich heritage and address the gap in backcountry knowledge among newcomers, she, alongside her videographer friend Riley, embarked on a mission to capture the essence of remote fly fishing through a documentary. The film, aimed for submission to the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T), represents a heartfelt effort to bridge generations, celebrate the sport's traditions, and encourage responsible engagement with the natural world. 14:04 - She shares her enriching experience of meeting John Fraley, a respected writer and fisheries biologist known for his significant contributions to understanding bull trout and cutthroat trout in Montana. 15:05 - She describes the process of getting dropped off in the wilderness in Montana with just a car, her pack, and a packraft from Kokopelli, setting the stage for a multi-day journey of exploration and fishing. 22:35 - She offers valuable advice for planning remote hiking and fly fishing trips, emphasizing the importance of using tools like TroutRoutes for effective trip planning. She highlights how the mobile app not only provides detailed maps but also offers crucial information like water temperature and flow rates (CFS), which are vital for ensuring safety and successful fishing experiences. Additionally, McKenna mentions the importance of monitoring water conditions before the trip to make informed decisions about fishing times and conservation efforts, especially during warmer months. 25:38 - She discusses the focus on fishing for Westslope cutthroat trout and the occasional "cutbow" (a hybrid between a cutthroat and rainbow trout) during their wilderness trip in Montana. She highlights the importance of conservation, especially concerning the endangered bull trout, explaining their decision to avoid targeting this species to align with ethical fishing practices passed down through generations. 28:16 - McKenna dives into the essential and luxury gear that made her wilderness fishing adventure memorable. She emphasizes the importance of dry bags, highlighting how co-sponsors like Kokopelli and Filson provided high-quality dry bags crucial for keeping equipment dry and safe during the float trip. Essential gear also included a Garmin GPS for navigation and a knife from Montana Knife Company, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness in remote settings. As for luxury items, McKenna shares her fondness for bringing along Backpackers Pantry's crème brûlée and indulging in beer supplied by Sacred Water Brewing Company, naming the Catch 'Em Lager as her favorite for its thematic fit with fishing. 31:43 - During their multi-day wilderness trip, McKenna and her crew experienced a mix of weather conditions, including a notable thunderstorm on the first day which, despite its intensity, was something McKenna enjoyed while on the river. The storm added some water to the river, slightly raising its level, which turned out to be beneficial for their journey. McKenna also shares a learning moment from Mr. Fraley regarding the correct terminology for insect activity on the water, distinguishing between a "hatch" and an "emergence," with the latter referring to the phase when insects transition from water to air with wings. 34:36 - Fishing proved fruitful during their trip, with McKenna emphasizing the excitement of trying different flies, especially those that were guaranteed to be successful based on her experience. She hinted at the effectiveness of flies with rubbery legs and the color purple in attracting West Slope cutthroat trout, which are the primary species targeted. 36:56 - We dig into Outcast Adventures which focuses on organizing women's trips into the wilderness, aimed at groups of 12 to 14 participants. These trips are designed not only to introduce women to fly fishing, camping, and floating in the backcountry but also to foster deep connections among people from diverse backgrounds. McKenna emphasizes that no prior experience in fly fishing is necessary to join, opening the door for participants with varied levels of experience. 41:34 - Key takeaways for anyone considering a similar trip include the significance of understanding the destination, planning for unforeseen events, and maintaining a detailed timeline for the journey. This timeline is crucial not only for managing supplies like food but also for ensuring the safety of everyone involved by keeping those at home informed of the expedition's progress. For emergency situations, such as potential injuries, McKenna highlights the value of carrying a Garmin device. This piece of equipment offers peace of mind by enabling communication with people outside the immediate area, even in locations without cell service. 42:56 - McKenna shares a remarkable story of surviving a plane crash while on a wilderness trip with her family, including her brother, dad, and one of her brother's friends from the Air Force Academy. Despite the severity of the crash, McKenna recalls the experience with a sense of adventure, comparing the anticipation of the crash to the excitement of sliding down stairs on a sleeping bag as a child. 51:49 - From a young age, McKenna was deeply involved in hockey, despite growing up in Montana where the sport was uncommon. Her passion for hockey led her to play on a Canadian boys' team and later for a team affiliated with the St. Louis Blues organization. Pursuing her dream, she traveled extensively during high school to play in college, highlighting the growth of hockey in Montana and its contrast to the hockey culture in Minnesota. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/584  

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/583  Presented by: Skwala, Northern Rockies Adventures Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors        In this episode, we chat with Brownie Liles, a seasoned guide with over 25 years of experience and the innovative mind behind Blue Ridge Boatworks. Brownie takes us on a journey of drift boat building and the scenic rivers of East Tennessee, sharing insights into his unique designs crafted specifically for the challenges and joys of fly fishing in the region. Listeners will dive into fly fishing conservation, the thrill of chasing fish in East Tennessee's vibrant waters, and how Brownie's passion for guiding and boat building led to creating a drift boat that blends tradition with cutting-edge design. Episode Chapters with Brownie Liles on Drift Boat Building 01:37 - Brownie shares his transition from whitewater kayaking to fly fishing in the mid-90s, sparked by a Christmas gift from his sister—a fly rod that ignited his passion for fly fishing. This newfound obsession led him to guide on the Tow River and eventually shift his career towards fly fishing in East Tennessee. 07:20 - He tells us how his company, the Blue Ridge Boatworks came to be. Drawing from his whitewater kayaking background and a lifelong passion for building, he crafted the perfect plastic skiff—a durable, high-density polyethylene vessel designed to navigate the challenges of river fishing. The result is a series of almost indestructible guide boats that cater specifically to the needs of fly fishing enthusiasts, proving that with vision and craftsmanship, traditional boat building can meet modern innovation. 11:14 - He shares the intricate process behind constructing their unique boats. Unlike traditional methods, building these high-density polyethylene skiffs involves an innovative approach where every piece is precision-cut and then welded together using a state-of-the-art extrusion welder—a tool likened to an expensive, Swiss-made "glorified hot glue gun." 14:33 - Skiffs, according to Brownie, generally offer a wider platform, granting more room within the boat and significantly enhancing side-to-side stability that traditional dories lack. This increased stability stems from the broader width, which provides greater surface area and displacement, causing the boat to ride higher on the water. Brownie points out that while all skiffs enjoy this inherent stability due to their width, his boat maintains this advantage from front to back, diverging from some skiffs that narrow at the ends, showcasing how thoughtful design can impact a boat's performance and angler's experience on the water. 20:30 - He highlights the boat's thoughtful features, like increased gunnel height for dryness and safety, and the slickness of the material that enables easy maneuverability over obstacles. Despite its sturdiness and innovative features, the boat's weight remains competitive, aligning closely with industry standards. Brownie also emphasizes the boat's practicality for guides, ensuring ease of entry and exit, especially in challenging river conditions. 26:31 - Brownie explains that the traditional gunnel rail, while aesthetically pleasing and structurally important in most drift boats, was intentionally omitted in their designs to achieve a maintenance-free vessel. Instead, they opted for rod trays below the gunnel line to provide the necessary structure, eventually moving towards using plastic for parts like thigh braces, which were initially made from wood due to cost constraints. 33:03 - He discusses the Watauga River's appeal for fly fishing, emphasizing its accessibility for both wading and drifting, thanks to its manageable flows. It's particularly known for its caddis hatch, making it a prime location for year-round fishing. 35:04 - Brownie also highlights the lodge and guide service he's associated with, providing top-notch accommodations and expert guidance for anglers looking to explore the best fishing spots on the river. Despite the river's popularity among anglers, the community maintains a friendly and respectful atmosphere, making it an inviting destination for fishermen of all levels. 38:28 - For those planning a fly fishing trip to the Watauga River, Brownie recommends late March through July as the optimal period, highlighting late March for its abundant bug activity and eager fish. Despite potential traffic, spring promises great fishing conditions, transitioning into productive summer months, especially with sufficient rain. 40:25 - The famed caddis hatch, peaking in early to mid-April, presents challenges and opportunities with various techniques, from swinging flies to precise dry fly casting. While wade fishing is an option, the local float guide culture predominantly favors fishing from drift boats for convenience and efficiency, with most guides preferring to stay onboard throughout the fishing experience. 47:33 - We give a shout-out to one of our avid listeners and also Drifthook. They have an interesting article on their website entitled "Top 21 Places to Fly Fish in Tennessee and What Flies to Use". 53:57 -As a lodge owner and former guide, Brownie offers insights into his daily operations and his transition from guiding to focusing more on his lodge and growing boat business.  His success, he believes, came not from being the best guide but from taking care of his clients and making lasting friendships. 58:22 - For those looking to fly fish in the South Holston area, Brownie Liles recommends Mahoney's Outfitters in Johnson City for a comprehensive range of fishing gear and The Fly Box near the South Holston River, known for its knowledgeable staff and quality guide services. Liles' lodge offers a guide service, preferring to provide a full-package experience to guests, from lodging to guided fishing trips. However, he also collaborates with other local guides, ensuring visitors have various options for their fishing adventures. 49:43 - For those spending a day on the water near Johnson City and looking for dining options, Brownie mentions some places in the city's downtown area. He also suggests an alternative for guests preferring a more intimate setting: purchasing groceries and utilizing the outdoor kitchen facilities at his lodge. 1:00:44 - Brownie shares his love for classic rock bands such as Pearl Jam and Led Zeppelin. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/583 

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/582 Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures Unlock the secrets of fly fishing in the untouched waters of Northern British Columbia with our guest, Daniel, who shares a treasure trove of knowledge, from preparations for the fishing season to detailed accounts of conservation efforts. Immerse yourself in tales of the vast wilderness that's home to flourishing populations of rainbow trout and Arctic Grayling, all accessible from the cozy confines of our family-owned lodge. We delve into the heart of the season's potential, examining the effects of snow conditions on spring runoff and the ensuing strategies for the best angling experiences. Experience the allure of personalized fishing expeditions, where the thrill of the catch is just the beginning. We chat about the unique blend of intimacy and adventure that comes with a stay at our lodge, where floatplanes expand the realm of possibility and every angler's dream is within reach. From warming up with abundant smaller catches to strategic pursuits of trophy fish, each guest's journey is curated to their preferences, creating memories like Brandon Morrison's that resonate long after the trip ends. As we wrap up this episode, we extend an invitation to discover the broader charms of our northern Rockies retreat. Beyond the adrenaline of the catch, our lodge offers a mosaic of activities ranging from wildlife viewing to culinary delights that embody our heritage. We also tease the prospects of untapped fishing adventures, like those in Peru, and encourage listeners to keep the cherished tradition of fishing alive. For those itching to cast their lines into wild, unexplored waters, Daniel points you to NRAdventures.com to begin crafting your unforgettable expedition. Episode Chapters - NR Adventures (0:00:05) - Fly Fishing in Northern British Columbia Daniel updates on fishing prep, snow conditions, and the draw of Northern BC for fly fishermen. (0:12:21) - Fishing Lodge Custom Trip Flexibility Nature's exclusive, personalized fishing trips with flexible dates and abundant catches, utilizing floatplanes for mobility and targeting trophy fish and other species. (0:17:46) - Fishing Lodge in Northern BC Nature's diverse fly fishing experiences in remote BC lodge, targeting rainbows, pike, and elusive bull trout, tailored to guest expectations and seasonal dynamics. (0:23:18) - Northern Rockies Adventures Nature's beauty and family-friendly activities at a remote lodge in the northern Rockies, including mountain biking, ATV trips, and Northern Lights tour. (0:30:15) - Float Plane Takeoff and Landing Nature's unique experience of flying float planes, from takeoff and landing on water to the joy of piloting in the Rockies. (0:42:07) - Conservation and Cuisine in Northern Canada Nature's culinary experiences, traditional dishes, international influences, alternative activities, conservation, and personalized immersion at a fishing lodge. (0:48:34) - Planning a Fly Fishing Trip Nature's prime time for pike fishing in August, techniques for still water fishing, fly-out options, and diverse activities at the lodge. (0:57:22) - Exploring Peru's Untapped Nature Nature's wonders and fishing in Peru, diverse species, informative episodes, keeping the tradition alive, and NRAdventures.com for planning. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/582

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/581 Presented By:  Waters West, TroutRoutes, Drifthook Fly Fishing In today's episode, we're diving into the world of two-handed casting with spey legend, Al Buhr. Level up your spey casting game as Al shares his top three casting tips that will revolutionize your approach. Discover Al's unique fly pattern techniques for enticing steelhead and gain insights into the rich history of spey casting, from Jim Green's legacy to present-day innovations. Tune in to uncover the secrets that will make your casts easier and more effective than ever before! Show Notes with Al Buhr on Two-Handed Casting.  01:22 - Al Burr takes us back to his early days in fly fishing at the age of 15. Despite being mostly self-taught, Al's keen observation and persistent curiosity paved the way for his mastery of fly casting. 03:31 -  Al's journey into two-handed casting began when he received a 16-foot boron rod from Jim Green. Eventually, Al learned the figure of eight method from Canadian experts on the Skagit River. Two-Handed Fly Casting: Spey Casting Techniques 12:22 - Al's journey to writing his book began with his involvement in the Federation of Fly Fishers. As the program expanded to include two-handed casting certification, Al took on the role of chair and recognized the need for a clear instructional guide. Over time, this booklet evolved into a larger technical manual, covering basic and advanced casting techniques   Understanding Constant Tension in Spey Casting 18:00 - Constant tension eliminates the need for pauses in the back cast, ensuring a smooth, continuous motion crucial for efficient casts. Regardless of line length or shape, constant tension allows anglers to regulate the depth of the D loop, enabling them to cast effectively without needing ample space behind them. 29:00 - The stop-and-go approach or forced turnover involves pausing or stopping during the casting motion, causing the rod to unload and reload with power. This pause can lead to slack or waves in the line, affecting the efficiency and accuracy of the cast. 32:53 - Besides constant tension and the power-up technique, another key aspect is using a modified D loop for casting efficiency. 48:04 - Al recounts a conversation with Tim Rajeff during a casting event in San Francisco. "The man who straightens his rod the fastest will win." - Tim Rajeff 55:48 - Al explains the figure of eight casting technique as visualizing an eight laid horizontally. You perform a crescent lift and a round lift for one side of the eight, drop down to form an X, and then curve back up for the other side. Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/581  

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/580  Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory, FishHound Expeditions Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  In the first installment, Jeff Liskay masterfully explored the world of rods and floating lines. Now, prepare to plunge into the depths with our next episode, where we'll navigate the intricacies of sinking and two-handed lines. Fueled by the overwhelming interest and queries from countless fishing enthusiasts, Jeff is ready to impart his seasoned wisdom and tips on mastering the art of fishing in the Great Lakes and their tributaries. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your fishing game, whether you're an experienced angler or just beginning your journey.   Episode Chapters with Jeff Liskay on Fly Rod and Line Combo 00:57 - Sinking Lines and Modern Innovations Jeff begins by recalling the early days of experimenting with sinking lines in the Great Lakes, attributing pioneers like Jerry Darkes and Capt. Brian Meszaros for laying the groundwork. Fast forward to today, advancements in fly lines, coupled with forward-facing sonar technology, have transformed the game, enabling anglers to present flies at previously thought unattainable depths. 05:37 - Deep Dive into Sinking Lines Delving into the specifics, Jeff highlights the categories of sinking lines into types based on their sink rate, ranging from intermediate to type eight. These advancements have allowed for precise control over the depth of the fly, with real-time feedback from sonar technology shedding light on the actual fishing depth, a revelation that was once a mystery. 08:00 - Exploring New Frontiers Jeff's passion for pushing boundaries shines through as he discusses strategies for targeting deep-water species in the Great Lakes, particularly during the late fall. Techniques that once seemed futile, like fly fishing for muskies at depths of 30 feet, are now within reach thanks to the evolution of sinking lines. 14:05 - Mastery of Fly Lines Transitioning to the core of his expertise, Jeff breaks down his go-to fly lines, offering a peek into his arsenal, which includes a blend of floating, intermediate, and sinking lines designed to tackle the diverse fishing conditions of the Great Lakes. This tailored approach ensures optimal presentation and effectiveness in various scenarios. 19:43 - The Evolution of Two-Handed Fly Fishing A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to two-handed and switch rod lines, where Jeff shares his fascination with the intricate balance between rod action, line weight, and casting technique. He emphasizes the importance of experimentation to find the 'wow factor' that signifies a perfect match between the rod and line. 36:02 - Mastering the Scandinavian Fly Line System  Jeff delves into the Scandinavian fly line system's popularity around the Great Lakes, highlighting its adaptability and efficiency for various fishing conditions. The system's versatile design allows anglers to switch entire heads for precise depth control, from floating to sinking, without changing tips. He also covers the importance of matching leader length with rod length for optimal casting performance. 50:27 - Mastering Shooting Lines: Enhancing Cast Distance and Precision Jeff dives into the intricacies of selecting and using shooting lines in fly fishing, particularly with Scandinavian or Skagit head systems. The discussion covers the benefits of mono and standard fly lines, emphasizing the importance of matching the diameter to the head weight to avoid tangles and ensure effective casting. Special attention is given to the trade-offs between mono's memory and slickness and the easier handling of standard fly lines. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/580

Listen to the full Ed Engle Episode 59 here:  https://wetflyswing.com/579b This here are five new top tips and takeaways with actionable advice for fly anglers: 1. Embrace Smaller Flies for Selective Trout Begin with flies in sizes 18-24 to mimic the prevalent midge and mayfly larvae and pupae that trout feed on in colder months. Practice tying your own small flies to customize and refine your selection based on observations of local insect life. 2. Master Slack Line Casts for Subtle Presentations Incorporate slack line casts, such as the reach cast or parachute cast, to present flies naturally without spooking fish. Use these casts to effectively place your fly upstream of feeding fish, allowing it to drift into the feeding zone with minimal drag. 3. Leverage Local Knowledge Through Guiding Consider hiring a local guide to gain insights into effective techniques and productive spots on new waters. Use the opportunity to learn about the specific behaviors of fish in different conditions and how to adapt your approach accordingly. 4 Adapt to Water Conditions and Insect Hatches Pay close attention to water levels, clarity, and temperature, as these factors significantly influence fish behavior and feeding patterns. Keep a journal of your fishing trips, noting the conditions, flies used, and fish activity to identify patterns over time. 5. Prioritize Observation in Fishing angle on the approach Spend time observing fish behavior and insect activity before making your first cast to choose the most effective fly and presentation. Experiment with different positions and angles of approach to find the most effective way to present your fly to feeding fish without spooking them.   Listen to the full Ed Engle Episode 59 here:  https://wetflyswing.com/579b

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/579 Presented By: Waters West, Togens Fly Shop, Northern Rockies Adventures Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Join us as we explore the enchanting Driftless Area, where conservation meets agriculture, and the past informs the future. Our guest, Carol Abrahamzon, Executive Director at Mississippi Valley Conservancy, shares her remarkable transition from nursing to farming and her eventual foray into conservation work. Discover the beauty of this unique region as we discuss how farmers are using sustainable practices to ensure their lands thrive for generations. Carol unveils the significance of conservation easements in preserving these precious ecosystems and the extraordinary efforts to maintain biodiversity through stream protection and buffer strips. Listen in as we expand on the impact of climate change on the agricultural landscape of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Carol sheds light on the resilience of native species with deep root systems and the importance of cover crops to combat wind erosion. Our conversation serves as a beacon of hope, offering actionable steps for individuals to make a difference, such as supporting local agriculture and engaging in policy advocacy. You'll also get a glimpse into our collaborative conservation projects, including the protection of an 18-mile stretch along the Kickapoo River and a 1600-acre property restoration, emphasizing the crucial role of community involvement. Finally, be captivated by our coverage of the conservation programs and events that bring the community together to foster a deeper connection with nature. Learn about our habitat restoration efforts, such as the planting of 2000 trees in the Plum Creek area, and our 'Link to the Land' program that invites participation in activities like migratory bird hikes and Mushroom forays. Carol also spotlights the importance of sustainable farming in conserving nature, from protected land corridors to stream protection for trout populations. Tune in for a heartfelt appreciation of the tireless work done by conservation organizations and how you can be part of this vital mission to protect our natural world. Episode Chapters - Mississippi Valley Conservancy (0:00:05) - Conservation Efforts in the Driftless Nature's interconnectedness in the Driftless Area, sustainable farming, and conservation efforts to protect land and biodiversity. (0:08:29) - Conservation Projects and Climate Change Impact Nature's conservation projects protect rivers, engage landowners, and rely on partnerships and community support. (0:19:50) - Addressing Climate Change Through Conservation Nature's challenges for farmers in MN and WI due to climate change, benefits of native species, cover crops, and actionable steps to combat it. (0:26:44) - Conservation Programs and Events Overview Nature's restoration efforts, events like 'Link to the Land', guided hikes and Mushroom forays, and the importance of bio blitz program. (0:32:20) - Conserving Nature and Sustainable Farming Nature's protected land corridors expand, focusing on Devil's Backbone and Chase Creek for stream protection and brook trout. Emmy-winning video on Driftless area. Visit website for public nature preserves and activities, with La Crosse and Verroqua as notable spots. (0:45:10) - Local Conservation Follow-Up and Appreciation Nature's conservation efforts and achievements in the local area were discussed, with a call for ongoing support and excitement for future visits. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/579