Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/652

Presented By:  Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Angler's Coffee, Stonefly Nets

What if I told you there's a place where you can fish the same waters as Lee Wulff and have a great chance at catching an Atlantic salmon on the fly?

Today, we will dive into the rich history and present-day fly fishing Newfoundland with the head guides from Mountain Waters Resort, Ryan & Les Wentzell and Rod Brophy.

You'll discover the secrets of fishing the riffle hitch, why you should stay put in the pools instead of stepping down, and even why 4-lb tippet is the go-to at certain times of the year. Plus, learn how to hook a giant Atlantic salmon like Lee Wulff did.

Show Notes with Ryan, Les, and Rod on Fly Fishing Newfoundland. 

02:35 - Ryan grew up at the lodge, which his parents, Les and Paulette Wentzell, and two other couples purchased. The 170-acre property was originally owned by Lee Wulff.

05:23 - The lodge is in Daniels Arbor, Newfoundland, a small town with a rich fishing history. After nearly 30 years of operation, Ryan took over the lodge in 2019 and has been upgrading it ever since.

The Riffling Hitch 

10:05 - Rod uses surface fishing with dry flies, like bombers, all year long. The riffling hitch creates a wake on the water, which makes it easier to spot the fish. This method is better than just using a regular wet fly.

Rod mentioned that even big fish, up to 40 pounds, have been caught using this technique, and it’s essential for consistent success.

20:17 - Les shares that Lee Wulff flew his float plane from New York to Newfoundland in the 1940s. He explored the rivers and set up fishing operations, including at Portland Creek. When a road was built nearby in 1956, Lee moved on to other projects.

28:11 - Rod shared how you can still fish in the spots where Lee Wulff used to catch fish. Many spots are still popular today. The area also offers amazing trout fishing, especially in nearby lakes.

Fly Fishing Newfoundland

30:02 - Ryan explained how people get to their fishing location. Most folks fly into Deer Lake Regional Airport, about two hours from the fishing area.

Once they arrive, Ryan's team picks them up, and they can start fishing immediately. Some people drive all the way, but that takes longer with a 10-hour ferry ride from Nova Scotia.

32:52 - Most guests focus on Atlantic salmon, but there’s also great brook trout fishing in the area.  They can also visit spots like the River of Ponds and see salmon at Hawke's Bay. Plus, if you're interested in cod fishing, that’s an option too.

35:04 - Rod says that catching Atlantic salmon is very likely, even for new anglers. He suggests using a 9 ft 9 wt rod and casting at a 45-degree angle across the river. The key is to adjust to the conditions and pay attention to the guide’s tips for a successful catch.

40:46 - Rod advises staying in one spot for at least an hour when fishing for Atlantic salmon. He explained that fish often settle in large pools, and you might be fishing over 25 to 30 fish in one spot.

Ryan shares a cool story about Henry Green, who fished at their place from 1957 to 2022. Henry was a big part of their history; loved salmon fishing and bird watching.

Check out this video of Henry Green.

1:00:13 - Ryan highlights all the cool stuff to do in Newfoundland besides fishing. Gros Morne National Park is close by with boat tours and hiking.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/652

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/651

Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Skwala

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Today's guest wrote the book referred to as the bible for steelhead fishing. He was the guy who created and perfected the Snap T cast, and he's one of the most respected anglers in the steelhead game. And today he's gonna break down the history and some of the best tips for steelhead and spey so you have a better shot at hooking these magical steelhead while on the river this season. 

Deck Hogan, Author of the book A Passion For Steelhead, guide, and expert spey casting instructor is here to take us back into history books of how Northwest Spey began and how steelhead fishing with the spey rod took off. We're gonna talk about how to slow down your fly for more success. Today, you understand where the fish are holding and how to present the fly to these fish. And you're gonna find out what happens if you get a pluck a touch, and you're gonna understand what the fish are actually doing under the water. You're always out there and you sometimes feel a little bit of feedback, but what is that fish actually doing? And how do you get that fish to come back to your fly? It's all on today.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/651

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/642 

Presented By: Togens Fly Shop, TroutRoutes, Stonefly Nets, Drifthook Fly Fishing

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   

Today we'll have an exciting conversation with Nick Secrist on spring creek fishing! Nick shares practical strategies and techniques, including the dry dropper method and tips for identifying when fish are ready to eat. He also recommends some fly selection, rod preferences, and nymphing setups. Additionally, we explore the Mossy Creek Fly Shop, its services, and community initiatives.

Nick's passion for fishing promises to make this episode an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their fishing skills. Dive in and join us on this journey through the spring creeks of Virginia!

Episode Chapters with Nick Secrist on Spring Creek Fishing

1:36 - Nick shares his background in fishing, noting that he comes from a "fishy" family. He recalls an early photo of his dad fishing with him shortly after he was born and describes his family's fishing adventures, particularly offshore fishing.

4:44 - Nick briefly talks about the current fishing state. They are experiencing a drought similar to the one from the previous year, which is affecting the water levels and temperatures. Despite these challenges, the fishing for smallmouth bass, particularly on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, is exceptional.

7:14 - Nick explains that Mossy Creek is unique due to its significant spring influence, cold water, and consistent fishing conditions throughout the year. He also mentions similar streams like Beaver Creek and Spring Run, which also have spring influences but may not be as consistently fishable as Mossy Creek.

8:30 - The conversation then shifts to smallmouth bass fishing. Nick outlines the peak smallmouth fishing season, which starts in late April and runs through September, with June, July, and August being the most consistent months for good fishing conditions.

11:25 - We discuss tips for spring creek fishing, specifically focusing on the technical aspects and nuances of fishing in Mossy Creek. Nick emphasizes that fishing in such environments can be challenging due to the unique micro drifts and currents caused by weed beds. He advises anglers to pay close attention to small channels and the drift of their lines, as simply casting into the middle of the creek is often ineffective.

13:36 - Nick talks about the dry dropper technique, especially during the spring and summer months. He explains that even if fish are not actively rising, there's still a good chance they will come up to take the dry fly. The dry dropper lands more naturally on the water and provides an opportunity for fish to strike. This technique is preferred over indicators in certain conditions, offering subtlety and a higher chance of success.

14:47 - He talks about the unique experience of fishing in spring creeks, particularly emphasizing the clear waters that allow anglers to see the fish. He also explains that while there are days with abundant catches, many people go to spring creeks for the challenge and satisfaction of sight fishing and having meaningful encounters with individual fish.

18:38 - Nick discusses how to identify when a fish is ready to eat. He explains that observing the fish's behavior in the water is key. Fish that are stationary at the bottom with closed mouths are likely not feeding, whereas fish that are more active, darting around and opening their mouths, are more likely to be in a feeding pattern.

He also shares tips on fishing techniques, particularly for Mossy Creek. He suggests that people often fish with streamers too slowly and nymphs too quickly. When streamer fishing, he advises making a few casts and then moving to find fish that are more willing to eat. Conversely, nymph fishing requires patience and precision due to the complexity of the creek's currents and depths. Persistence and varied techniques are necessary to catch fish with nymphs.

23:06 - He shares the patterns they use in fishing the Mossy Creek. He recommends using flies of different weights, sizes, and colors.

27:46 - Nick highlights the variety of streams available in their area, many of which are full of brook trout, thanks to the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountain ranges. He also mentions the abundance of options within an hour’s drive, including both naturally occurring and stocked streams.

30:09 - We delve into the Mossy Creek Fly Shop owned by twin brothers, Brian and Colby. Nick explains that the shop offers both smallmouth and trout fishing trips. Smallmouth fishing is conducted via floating trips on rafts, covering five to ten miles of river depending on the route. These rafts provide flexibility, especially in areas with big bedrock or without boat ramps. Trout fishing, on the other hand, is done through walk-and-wade trips, suitable for the specific river conditions they encounter.

32:53 - Smallmouth fishing generally offers higher catch rates than trout fishing, even on less productive days. Nick elaborates that the Shenandoah River has a robust smallmouth population, making it possible to catch many fish, including smaller ones, with ease.

35:02 - Nick mentions that as temperatures drop in the fall, they pivot back to trout fishing due to the cooler temperatures and increased moisture, which makes the conditions favorable for trout. During the fall and winter, they engage in musky fishing, particularly in the South Fork and the James River.

38:26 - He shares that while they manage private stretches for guided trips, there is also a four-mile public section available, thanks to cooperative agreements with local landowners. He shares his experience of learning to fish in these waters and emphasizes the abundance of fishing options in the area.

44:11 - We dig into some key strategies for spring creek fishing. Nick suggests the importance of having a variety of flies to increase the chances of success. He also highlights the significance of achieving the right drift and being patient, as it can sometimes take considerable time to get the presentation just right. Nick notes that some fishing spots may require extended efforts, especially if they're complex, and advises anglers not to rush through but rather to adjust and refine their techniques as needed.

45:43 - Nick further elaborates on fly selection, mentioning specific types of flies suitable for the season and conditions. For instance, he recommends using dense flies for subsurface fishing and instant streamers. For dry fly fishing, he points out that a trico hatch is effective during early mornings throughout the summer. Additionally, he suggests using ants, beetles, hoppers, or PMX flies for blind fishing, as they have a larger profile and float well, making them attractive to opportunistic fish.

46:30 - He also emphasizes the importance of using longer rods, preferably eight and a half to nine feet. Longer rods help with mending and controlling the line over moss beds. Additionally, Nick advises using good floating lines and split shots for optimal nymph depth. He also mentions the importance of having a large net to accommodate the size of the fish one hopes to catch.

48:20 - Nick shares his typical nymphing setup, which involves using a 9ft 5wt rod and a nine-foot knotless tapered leader. He adjusts the tippet size based on the fishing conditions.

50:21 - He talks about his experience with fly tying, noting that his engagement with the hobby fluctuates. He uses a Renzetti Traveler vise, which he praises for its longevity and reliability, a sentiment echoed by Brian and Colby, who still use their vices bought at age 15. We had Lily Renzetti on the podcast in episode 486.

52:53 - We talk about vices and hobbies. Nick admits to having a coffee problem but reveals that his real obsession is tarpon fishing. He describes how he indulges this passion by reading books, listening to podcasts, and practicing his fishing techniques at home. He also goes on to share his upcoming travel plans centered around fishing.

55:23 - We talk about the Mossy Creek Mobile Fly Shop. The truck, resembling a retired UPS vehicle, has been fully outfitted with fly fishing gear, including spooling machines, lines, reels, rods, and flies. It features a distinctive Derek DeYoung trout wrap on the ceiling. Through the mobile fly shop, they aim to thank loyal customers and attract new ones by visiting various breweries across the state.

56:49 - Additionally, the Mossy Creek team collaborates with local Trout Unlimited chapters, Project Healing Waters, and other clubs to host events like fly tying competitions, further fostering community involvement. Dates and locations for the tour are available on their website.

58:31 - We talk a bit about the history of Virginia. Nick shares that he has been reading about historical figures like Daniel Boone and reflects on the historical significance of the local streams and landscapes. He also mentions that the fly shop was originally constructed in 1832, retaining much of its original wood, which adds to its historical charm. The shop is located in Harrisonburg, just a few blocks from the downtown area, making it a convenient and historically rich location for visitors.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/642 

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/

Welcome to the In the Bucket Podcast - a new show with Brian Niska. We're diving into the world of Spey fishing and the Steelhead and Salmon scene, especially on the West Coast. Join us as we chat about the exciting shift from being a guest to host, revealing our podcast's unique style that captures the lively conversations friends have after a day by the water. This episode isn't just for Spey fishing fans; it's a goldmine for anyone who loves the fly fishing community and the deep connections it builds.

Brian Niska talks about seasoned anglers like Stu Foxall, Eric Leninger, and Scoot Mason, as we navigate the breathtaking world of BC fishing. From the majestic king salmon on the Skeena and Kitimat Rivers to the serene beauty of winter steelheading, our conversation casts a line into the heart of what makes these pursuits so enthralling. We share personal stories, reflect on the mental game of fishing, and cherish the camaraderie that's as much a part of the experience as the catch itself.

Rounding out this episode, Brian's excited to pass on some pearls of wisdom on mastering spey casting. With an emphasis on technique over brute force, he will guide you through common pitfalls and offer advice on perfecting your cast for an exceptional steelhead chase. Plus, we celebrate the diversity and community spirit of group trips at the lodge, where strangers become fast friends bonded by the rhythm of the river. So, gear up and tune in for an episode that promises to enrich your love for the sport and maybe even improve your spey game!

Episode Chapters

(0:00:05) - Introduction to "In the Bucket"
New podcast explores steelhead fishing and community with a unique format.

(0:13:21) - Alaskan Fishing Opportunities and Preferences
Nature's unique King salmon fishing in Alaska, mental challenge of steelhead fishing, camaraderie among anglers, and exceptional lodge experience.

(0:24:45) - Tips for Improving Spey Casting
Nature's insights on improving spay casting for steelhead fishing, including maintaining line tension and correcting common faults.

(0:34:58) - Community and Diversity in Group Trips
Community forms among strangers on group trips, involving listeners through giveaways, and looking forward to future adventures.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/560

Presented By:  Northern Rockies Adventures, TroutRoutes

Today Brian O'Keefe treats us to captivating tales of fly fishing in Chile and New Zealand. Brian shares his recent exploits in these breathtaking locations, shedding light on unique techniques, tackling strategies, and the unparalleled beauty of the Southern Hemisphere's trout-rich landscapes.

From thrilling helicopter rides to remote streams to intimate encounters with the local culture and hospitality, this episode is packed with valuable insights, laughter, and a shared love for fly fishing.

Show Notes with Brian O'Keefe on Fly Fishing Chile and New Zealand. 

01:48 - Brian shares his recent experiences working and fly fishing in New Zealand, highlighting his visits to Cedar Lodge and Owen River Lodge. He describes the unique fishing opportunities and the beauty of the South Island.

03:20 - Brian talks about the importance of capturing the essence of new properties through photography, showcasing the landscapes, lodge facilities, and the overall fishing experience.

06:35 - Brian discusses his life between the Henry's Fork and the South Fork of the Snake River. He talks about the local fishing opportunities, the unique characteristics of the town of Rexburg, and his winter activities.

Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival

07:19 - Brian previews his presentation at the festival, covering the fishing experiences in the Patagonia region of Chile and New Zealand, emphasizing the uniqueness and beauty of each location.

Check out our episode with Trent Denhof and Janelle Petzak of The Bum Diary Show where they talk about their amazing DIY fly fishing trips, particularly in Argentina and New Zealand.

Fly Fishing New Zealand

10:26 -  Brian reminisces about his first fishing trip to New Zealand at the age of 19. He shares his experiences, and how they shaped his life and career in fly fishing.

13:58 - Brian explains the origin of the name 'Eleven Angling' and its connection to music and exceeding expectations in the fly fishing industry.

16:02 - Brian dives into the specific fishing techniques unique to Chile and New Zealand, sharing exciting details about streamer fishing and dry fly fishing in Chile.

20:43 - Brian provides valuable tips for travelers looking to explore the trout-rich regions of Chile and Argentina independently, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge, fly fishing culture, and being prepared for the adventure.

25:12 - Brian discusses the unique offerings of the Martine Pescador Lodge in Chile and the convenience of having top-notch gear provided to guests, ensuring a seamless and immersive fishing experience.

29:50 - Brian shares his excitement for upcoming trips with notable figures in the fly fishing industry. He also talks about his participation in various fly fishing shows.

32:55 - Brian describes the unparalleled beauty and fishing opportunities at Cedar Lodge and Owen River Lodge in New Zealand.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/560

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/559

Presented By:  FishHound Expeditions

 Today, Adam Cuthriell from Fishhound Expeditions takes us on an Alaska fishing adventure. Adam shares three of his favorite tips on planning an Alaskan adventure and having a great time on the water. Plus, we find out which city in Alaska elected a cat as their mayor!

Tune in and find out what you need to prepare your cast, get the right fly patterns, and where to go for the best intel on Alaska. And find out about the Alaska Podcast series we're kicking off with Adam.

Show Notes with Adam Cuthriell on Alaska Fishing Adventure. 

02:50 - We hear about how 2023 went for Adam and his crew at FishHound Expeditions. Will is getting ready to go travel in Southeast Asia for six weeks and Cam was back down in Honduras again. We had Will on the podcast in Episode 401 and Cam in Episode 447.

06:39 - Adam shares insights into the wealth of road-accessible fisheries just north of Anchorage, particularly focusing on Willow Creek.

Contrary to the common notion of needing a plane or helicopter in Alaska, he highlights the phenomenal fishing opportunities along the Parks Highway Systems.

12:40 - Adam discusses the importance of being mindful of bugs and bears while outdoors. He recommends using bug spray and a head net for bugs, having bear spray or a firearm, and being loud to deter bears.

14:50 - Adams walks us through the best times to fish Alaska depending on your target species.

20:47 - We talk about the town of Talkeetna, located about 35 to 40 minutes north of Willow. Notably, Talkeetna has a unique and whimsical aspect, as they recently elected their second cat mayor.

Exploring Destinations Beyond Alaska

25:30 - Adam shares his ventures beyond Alaska, particularly his expeditions to the islands of Honduras with Cam. He highlights the incredible fly fishing opportunities there, including bonefish, permits, triggers, and even the thrill of catching tuna on the fly.

30:00 - Adam talks about the importance of supporting companies started by guides and anglers, as they offer a more authentic and knowledgeable experience compared to tourism companies.

32:00 - Adam talks about their successful fishing trips in Kodiak last year, where they had unusually sunny weather and high numbers of steelhead.

Tips and Tricks for Alaskan Fishing

35:50 - Adam provides three valuable tips for individuals planning a fly fishing trip to Alaska:

Practice throwing weight when fly casting.
Learn to tie Alaskan flies,
Reach out to local fly shops or guide services for advice.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/559

In this solo episode I walk you through some guide tips I learned on recent trips fishing for steelhead around the country.  

How to Avoid Cold Feet on Your Next Fishing Trip

Invest in Bootfoot Waders: These waders, with boots attached, provide better insulation than traditional neoprene boots, helping to keep your feet warmer in cold water.

Oversized Boots and Bama Boot Layering: Consider wearing oversized boots and adding a Bama boot layer underneath for additional insulation. This extra layer can make a significant difference in keeping your feet warm.

Effective Layering with Socks: Use a combination of merino wool socks and a thin poly liner underneath. This dual-layer approach is effective in maintaining warmth and comfort in cold conditions.

Battery-Powered Heat Warmers: For extended comfort, battery-powered heat warmers in socks can provide consistent warmth and help cut off the chill, allowing for longer fishing sessions.

Hot Thermos of Water for Emergency Warming: Carrying a hot thermos of water to pour on the boots can provide quick relief and "recharge" cold feet, giving you a chance to continue fishing comfortably.

Thanks and follow us on Instagram and let me know what your best tip is!

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/558

Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Virginia Fly Fishing Festival

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Discover the confluence of fly fishing and conservation as Cory from the Wood River Land Trust shares his transformative journey from athlete to aquatic ecology ambassador. Hooked by his family's legacy and the allure of steelhead on the Deschutes River, Cory's tale weaves through the challenges of balancing wildlife habitat preservation with agricultural demands while spearheading river programs that go beyond the typical scope of land trusts. As we cast our conversation net, we reel in the complexities of the Big Wood River's ecosystem, the tales of triploid fish, and the enchanting origins of the red-band trout.

Our episode's current carries us further downstream into the collaborative efforts fueling projects like the Warm Springs Preserve Project, where community-driven initiatives underscore the importance of local engagement and the role it plays in revitalizing our natural landscapes. Cory's insights into the symbiotic relationship of conservation, fishing, and community involvement ripple throughout our discussion, highlighting how individuals can turn their passion for recreation into a force for environmental advocacy and action. We also tackle the urgent need for restoration work and offer practical tips on supporting local species and habitats.

As we wrap up our riverside chat, Cory casts a line into the future, sharing the Wood River Land Trust's exciting projects aimed at bolstering native fish populations. His contagious enthusiasm for the trust's work is a clarion call for listeners to get involved and support the ongoing efforts to preserve our precious aquatic ecosystems. Whether you're an angler or an advocate, there's a role for everyone in the enduring effort to keep our rivers teeming with life. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how you can become a part of the conservation legacy—tune in and be inspired to make a splash in your local environment.

Episode Chapters - Wood River Land Trust

(0:00:05) - Fly Fishing and Conservation on Wood River
Nature's conservation efforts, Euro nymphing clinic, and community involvement in environmental stewardship and land protection.

(0:15:02) - Fisheries and Restoration in Big Wood
Nature's unique triploid fish, growth patterns, and environmental changes in the Big Wood River basin, including the Warm Springs Preserve Project.

(0:29:08) - Supporting Local Species and Conservation Efforts
Nature's conservation can be supported through donations, advocacy, recreational activities, restoration work, and local fishing opportunities.

(0:35:25) - Exciting Projects for Native Fish
Nature's conservation efforts for native fish populations discussed with Cory from Wood River Land Trust.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/558

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/557B

Presented By: Angler's Coffee

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

When the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee mingles with tales of riverside camaraderie, you know it's time to pull up a chair and pour yourself a cup. That's exactly what we did with Joe from Anglers Coffee, stirring up a conversation as hearty as their newest Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout coffee blends. As we took a virtual tour of Anglers Coffee's eventful year, Joe spilled the beans on the dynamics between specialty Arabica and robust Robusta, and the launch of their high-octane Stimulator blend. We also got the inside scoop on their latest splash at the Virginia Fly Fishing and Wine Festival and the buzz around the upcoming show in Edison, New Jersey.

Amidst the winter chill, there's nothing like the promise of a hopeful steelhead run to warm the spirits of anglers braving Washington's Olympic Peninsula. In this spirit, I shared my own winter fishing tales and the reflective art of fly tying, drawing a parallel to the craft of brewing the perfect cup. We explored the trade-offs between the purity of freshly ground beans and the convenience of K-Cups and steeping pouches, all while keeping sustainability at the forefront. Wrapping up the episode, we circled back to a previous conversation about the heartwarming work with foster children, and the importance of supporting such causes through our communities. Join us for this episode where we celebrate the fusion of coffee, fishing, and the shared values that keep our streams—and our cups—overflowing.

Episode Chapters - Anglers Coffee

(0:00:05) - Updates and Events for English Coffee
Joe reflects on brand growth, customer appreciation, and new blends resonating with the fly-fishing community.

(0:13:51) - Winter Fishing and Coffee Options
Nature's challenges of winter fishing, still water fishing, coffee brewing methods, sustainability efforts, new products, and commitment to conservation.

(0:23:11) - Podcast Call to Action with Jess Westbrook
Revisiting impactful work for foster children, thanking Joe for coffee, and excitement for the upcoming Edison, New Jersey show.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/557B

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/557

Presented By:  Togiak River Lodge, Smitty's Fly Box, Angler's Coffee

 Have you been interested in getting into Euro Nymphing or maybe improving your current skills? Would you like to find out how to rig the same leader that took home the gold at the world championship this year?

You're in luck because we have Pete Erickson back on the show to break down the rig and shed light on a new Euro Clinic happening this year. You'll also find out when you might need a micro leader and some tips on casting it.

Show Notes with Pete Erickson on Euro Clinic Giveaway. 

We just launched a huge giveaway to win a trip to the Euro Clinic with Pete on the Wood River.

02:00 - Pete Erickson talks about his experience at the Masters World Championships. His team narrowly missed winning the team gold by a centimeter of a fish, but Pete was able to achieve a personal milestone by winning the individual world championship.

05:00 - We talked about the Euro School trip we had last year with Pete. This year's Euro Clinic is going to be at the Wood River in Sun Valley.

07:32 - Pete walks us through what to expect on the first day of the clinic, including discussing the history of Euro nymphing, going over gear and leaders, and assessing the participants.

Visit https://wetflyswing.com/euroclinic to get a spot at this year's Euro Clinic.

11:00 - Pete explains the benefits of attending the clinic compared to a guided fishing trip. The clinic allows for more instructional and educational opportunities, taking the pressure off catching fish and focusing on learning and improving techniques.

13:20 - Participants in the clinic will also receive a special bonus: exclusive access to the Euronymphing Webinar Course.

Euro Nymphing Leaders

13:50 - Pete Erickson discusses the different types of leaders used in European nymphing and emphasizes the importance of choosing a leader based on personal preference and specific fishing conditions.

16:20 - Pete Erickson highlights his preferred leader setup, focusing on his go-to "stealth comp micro leader" for Euro nymphing.

23:00 - The Shadow X is a rod developed in collaboration with Pete Erickson and Echo's Tim Rajeff. We had Tim and his crew on the podcast in Episode 483.

33:07 - We discuss the significance of the Wood River and its association with Ernest Hemingway. The Wood River is a popular destination for fly fishing in the Sun Valley area.

44:37 - Fall is the ideal time to fish the Wood River due to easier access and beautiful weather. Pete also mentioned the unpredictability of spring water levels.

Fly Shop Shoutout

55:52 - Pete tells us about Silver Creek Outfitters, a fly shop located in Ketchum. He describes it as an amazing store with a giant hunting section and incredible apparel. The guide crew is highly skilled and easy to get along with, and the location is convenient for visitors from nearby areas.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/557