Explore every episode of the podcast Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

#1013 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/1013

Presented by: Outpost on the Nush

Nushagak River fly fishing is all about targeting wild leopard rainbow trout, working streamers through logjams, and deciding when to commit to a mouse fly. In this episode, we head to Outpost on the Nush with Sawyer Keener to talk about the fishing techniques that make this Alaska fishery so memorable. We get into the early-season salmon smolt run, the importance of fishing tight structure, and how to handle a big trout when it eats a mouse.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/1013

#1012 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1012

Presented by: Fly Fish with me Utah, FishHound Expeditions, Sullivan Fly Rods

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Huey Lewis spent decades making music that defined the 1980s, selling millions of records with Huey Lewis and the News and helping bring Back to the Future to life with "The Power of Love." Today, he's spending much of his time on the rivers of Montana and British Columbia, chasing trout and steelhead with a fly rod.

Huey joins us to share how his father's early fishing lessons eventually led to a lifelong passion for fly fishing. We get into his love of dry flies, the 19 steelhead he caught during a recent season, and why watching a steelhead rise to a skated fly is one of his favorite experiences on the water.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1012

#1010 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1010

Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Togiak River Lodge, Blue Bonefish Lodge

Scott Barrus arrived at Spinner Fall in 1998 as a 21-year-old shuttle driver, sleeping behind a couch and fishing every day. A year later, he spent his college tuition money on a drift boat and began his guiding career on the Green River.

Today, I sit down with Scott to explore the 30 miles below Flaming Gorge Dam in Utah. We cover the A, B, and C sections, blue-winged olive hatches in April and May, summer caddis, and cicada fishing that can bring trout looking for your fly.

Scott also shares why he usually fishes a 12-foot leader with 4X tippet, the story behind the Chernobyl Ant, and why seeing trout rise through the Green’s clear water can make you set the hook too soon.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1010

#1009 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/1009

Presented by: Outpost on the Nush, Sullivan Fly Rods, AVC Rig, Jackson Hole Fly Company

Stephen Collector has spent decades combining photography, writing, and time outdoors. From photographing John Gierach for book covers to fishing in Alaska and documenting people and places, his career has connected him with remarkable anglers, writers, and storytellers.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/1009

#1008 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1008

Presented by: Blue Bonefish Lodge, Smitty’s Fly Box, On DeMark Lodge, Outpost on the Nush

Big trout don’t always give you much room for a back cast. Streamer Spey helps you put a fly beside a logjam, work a tight bank, and reach water that’s tough to cover with a standard overhead cast.

In this fifth episode of Hunting with a Fly, Rick Kustich breaks down his approach to chasing predatory trout with Spey gear. He explains how rod and line choices shape your presentation, which casts suit tight spots, and how to move a streamer to trigger a chase.

From a short feeding window after rain to a trout following your fly into the shallows, Rick shares how to recognize these opportunities and make the most of them.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1008

#1006 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1006

Presented by: Blue Bonefish Lodge, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho

A trout can take a wet fly and turn before you ever feel the pull. Davy Wotton joins us to explain how a little slack, the right rod position, and a steady lift can help you connect with fish that are easy to miss.

We get into soft hackles, winged wet flies, and how to choose between upstream, across-stream, and downstream presentations. Davy breaks down his leader system and explains why fly spacing, line diameter, and casting pace matter when fishing multiple flies.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1006

Register for the Bootcamp: https://wetflyswing.com/bootcamp

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/pescador

https://wetflyswing.com/stonefly

In this episode of Wet Fly Swing, Dave gives you a full preview of the 2026 Fly Fishing Bootcamp for Trout Anglers, happening October 30 through November 2.

This free, four-day online event brings together 23 fly fishing instructors covering everything from trout behavior, nymphing, and reading water to casting, dry flies, streamers, trout spey, and fly tying. Dave walks through each day's lineup, including sessions with Jason Randall, Devin Olsen, Rick Kustich, Davy Wotton, Skip Morris, Phil Rowley, and more.

You'll also hear four practical fishing tips from Bootcamp speakers, learn how to join the live demonstrations and Q&A sessions, and find out how to access the replays and bonus resources through the All-Access Pass.

Register for free at https://wetflyswing.com/bootcamp

Listen to the Full Tommy Lynch episode here: https://www.wetflyswing.com/347

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/teton https://www.wetflyswing.com/pescador

Big brown trout don't always feed when conditions look good. Sometimes the best streamer fishing happens when rivers rise, water turns muddy, and other anglers head home. In this short solo episode of Wet Fly Swing, we're revisiting 15 streamer fishing tips from Tommy Lynch, one of the most popular guests from 2022. These tips come from episode 347, where Tommy shared his approach to targeting large brown trout and understanding what makes them chase a fly.

We cover why low, stable barometric pressure matters, how to adjust your retrieve in clear versus muddy water, and why streamer movement can be more important than fly color. You'll hear how Tommy uses short, sharp strips to make streamers swim naturally, adjusts leader lengths for different rivers, and targets aggressive trout in shallow, fast water. We also get into his approach to following fish, missed strikes, and choosing the right fly line for the conditions.

This is a quick breakdown of 15 practical tips you can take to the river on your next streamer trip. Whether you're fishing big tailwaters, smaller trout streams, or high, stained rivers, Tommy's ideas will give you a few things to test. And if you want the full conversation, head back to Wet Fly Swing episode 347 for the complete interview with Tommy Lynch.

#1003 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1003

Presented by: On DeMark Lodge

In this episode, Brandon Friis and Heath Gunns discuss Missouri River fly fishing, dry-fly techniques, drift boats, and the value of spending time outdoors. Brandon shares what he learned at the Missouri River Dry Fly School, including fishing the Trico hatch and switching to nymphs as conditions changed.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1003

#1002 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1002

Presented by: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Pescador on the Fly, Blue Bonefish Lodge, No See Um Lodge

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

The Clouser Deep Minnow started with a practical problem on the Susquehanna River: how to make a fly fish more like the jigs that were catching smallmouth bass. Bob Clouser joins us to explain why the fly’s eyes were originally about weight and how Lefty Kreh gave the pattern its name.

We get into retrieves, early red fox tail versions, and the difference between a fly that sinks and one that stays near the surface. Bob also shares the stories behind his Suspender and Furry Foam Crayfish, including why watching a fly fall can matter as much as stripping it back.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1002

#1001 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1001

Presented by: Sullivan Fly Rods

Casting for Recovery began with two retreats in Vermont and has grown into a program serving nearly 14,000 women. In this episode, Susan Gaetz shares how Casting for Recovery uses fly fishing, nature, volunteer support, and small-group retreats to help women diagnosed with breast cancer find connection and confidence.

Susan also explains how Casting for Recovery developed retreats for women with advanced breast cancer, how volunteers make the program work, and how partnerships help expand its reach. The conversation finishes with the Jane Drift Boat Project and a rapid-fire round covering fishing gear, gardening, smoothies, education, and photography.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/1001

#1000 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1000

Presented by: Stonefly Nets, On DeMark Lodge, Gallatin River Lodge, Blue Bonefish Lodge

The night before we recorded, Ron Walp pulled an old baseball scorebook off his shelf and found my dad’s name inside. That’s where this story of Deschutes River history begins, with a connection that reaches back well beyond our fishing camps.

For Episode 1,000 of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast, we’re joined by an old friend who has spent more than 50 years running the Deschutes. Ron shares stories about playing professional baseball, buying his first jet sled on a teacher’s salary, fishing the river before the dams, and getting to know my dad, Doug Stewart.

We also get into the people who helped protect the lower river, the lesson that changed how Ron hooks steelhead, and the canyon mornings that keep bringing him back to a river that has shaped so much of his life.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/1000

#999 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/999

Presented by: Moccasin Fly Club

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

The San Juan River gives anglers a chance to work on three very different approaches in one day: streamers, nymphs, and dry flies. John Hunt joins us to talk about why that variety makes this New Mexico tailwater such a useful place to learn.

We get into the water people pass by, including slow, shallow stretches that can hold a big trout. John also explains why a small change in fly depth can make all the difference on a pressured river. Then we head to Mongolia, where the fishing shifts to mouse patterns, large baitfish flies, and the search for taimen.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/999

#998 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/998

Presented by: Outpost on the Nush, TroutRoutes, On DeMark Lodge, Redd’s Flies

Trey Combs has spent decades documenting the people, rivers, flies, and techniques that shaped steelhead fly fishing. In this episode, Trey and his son, Mark Combs, take a close look at steelhead history, from classic fly patterns and early Spey fishing to grease line techniques and the stories behind some of the sport's most important books and photographs.

The conversation blends firsthand experience with preservation. Trey shares stories from his years on steelhead rivers, while Mark explains how he is building an online archive that makes steelhead history accessible through books, photographs, fly plates, essays, and fly-pattern research.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/998

#996 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/996

Presented by: Sullivan Fly Rods, On Demark Lodge, Redd's Flies, Smitty’s Fly Box

There are steelhead rivers, and then there is the Dean. From Kimsquit Bay Lodge in British Columbia, mountains drop straight into the salt, with fresh steelhead only minutes from the ocean.

Jeff Hickman, Adrienne Comeau, and Pat Beahen join Jeff Liskay to break down what makes Dean River steelhead fishing so different. They get into the famous canyon, how tides shape the fishing, dry-line and Chinook tactics, and the gear and techniques that make this river unique.

They also talk about something bigger than catching fish: why these wild steelhead deserve respect and what anglers can do to give something back.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/996

Listen to the full Episode 255 here: https://wetflyswing.com/255

Sponsors: Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Co, Outpost on the Nush

In this Greatest Hits solo episode, Dave revisits his 2021 conversation with Jeff Liskay and pulls out 11 practical Spey and switch rod tips for Great Lakes steelhead.

Jeff’s system starts with an 11-foot 5-weight switch rod, roughly 330 grains, a short sink tip, a 14- to 18-inch leader, and an unweighted fly. From there, the focus is less on making long casts and more on controlling swing speed, fishing the right water, and keeping the fly in front of cold water steelhead.

Dave breaks down why Jeff fishes higher and dirtier water before the crowds arrive, slows his swing when water temperatures drop into the 30s, and searches the edges before moving toward the middle of the river. You'll also hear why shortening your sink tip can immediately make a struggling Spey cast easier and why presentation matters more than casting across the river.

Jeff also explains why he lets the sink tip control depth instead of adding weight to the fly, why some of his best water is the stuff other anglers walk right through, and when warmer, clearer conditions might even call for skating a dry fly for Great Lakes steelhead.

The episode wraps up with two bigger lessons: separate casting practice from fishing, and don't fish yesterday's water. Migratory fish move, conditions change, and Jeff would rather keep searching new water than become attached to the spot that produced the day before.

If you're getting ready for Great Lakes steelhead season or want to make your switch rod setup simpler this episode gives you 11 tips you can take straight to the river.

#994 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/994

Presented by: Stonefly Nets, Drifthook, Togiak River Lodge

English trout fishing offers anglers a different set of rivers, access challenges, hatches, and seasonal opportunities than many famous waters in the American West. Howard Croston shares his experience with English trout fishing, his career with Hardy, competition dry-fly fishing, European grayling, and the equipment being developed for modern anglers.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/994

#993 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/993

Presented by: Golden Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, AVC Rig, Redd's Flies

In this episode, Adam explains the hatches, flies, access, water conditions, boat fishing, wading, and presentation skills that matter on West Branch Delaware. He also shares how to recognize feeding rhythms, when to change flies, and why slowing down before the next cast can make a difference.

The West Branch Delaware is one of those rivers where a trout can be holding in a narrow current seam and ignore a fly that passes only an inch or two away. Adam Franceschini has spent 15 spring seasons on the West Branch Delaware, learning how to approach its wild trout and technical dry fly fishing.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/993

#992 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/992

Presented by: Smitty's Fly Box, Togiak River Lodge, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Jan Erik Granbo lives near Trondheim in central Norway, where he has around 40 Atlantic salmon rivers within his region. We dig into everything Atlantic salmong fishing, from the June salmon window and Scandinavian two-handed setups to finding resting fish, planning a Norway trip, and fishing dry flies later in summer.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/992

#991 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/991

Presented by: Moccasin Fly Club

Every destination has a season when the fishing feels just right, and along the Louisiana Coast, clear water, moving tides, and sight fishing are what make Louisiana redfish fly fishing so special.

David Phelps from Southbound Fly Expeditions talks about seasonal redfish movements, changing weather, sight-fishing tactics, casting, flies, and tackle. We also dig into the three-day Louisiana trip we're putting together with Moccasin Fly Club.

You’ll hear how David sets up the fly for different redfish behaviors, why the 20- to 40-foot cast matters more than the 70-foot cast, and the biggest mistake he sees from trout anglers.

#991 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/991

#990 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/990

Presented by: Sullivan Fly Rods, Blue Bonefish Lodge, AVC Rig, Gallatin River Lodge

Bitterroot River fly fishing offers an unusual mix of water, from mountain-stream fishing in the headwaters to wide, technical flats closer to Missoula. Robert Prince spends about 90 percent of his guiding and fishing days on the Bitterroot, and he joins Dave to break down the river's major hatches, dry flies, nymphs, and presentations that help anglers find trout year-round.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/990

Listen to the full episode: https://wetflyswing.com/989

Domenick Swentosky of Troutbitten joins us for one of the most-downloaded Wet Fly Swing episodes of 2020. Dom breaks down a different way to approach streamer fishing, one that borrows heavily from tight-line nymphing. Instead of relying on huge flies and aggressive retrieves, he explains why smaller streamers, precise presentations, and direct contact can be so effective for trout.

We get into Dom's Mono Rig streamer setup, including why he likes a 20-pound Maxima Chameleon butt section, a 10-foot 4-weight, and a two-streamer system that helps him track what's happening below the surface. He also explains how he uses his sighter to judge depth, why he targets small pieces of water around rocks, wood, and banks, and why anglers may be stripping their streamer away from the best holding water too quickly.

Dom also shares one of the most interesting concepts from the episode: streamer head position. You'll hear how he gets his fly facing down and across, why he wants to keep it near structure, and how his “slow slide” presentation gives trout an easier opportunity to eat. If you want to bring more control and precision to your streamer game, this episode gives you a different way to fish them.

#988 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/988

Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory, Gallatin River Lodge, Fly Fish With Me Utah, Drifthook

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Backcountry fly fishing has a way of simplifying things. When every ounce has to ride on your back, you start figuring out pretty quickly which pieces of fishing gear actually matter and which ones can stay at home.

In this episode, Patrick and Daniel Bauman of Colter Backcountry take us into that world. We dig into ultralight backcountry gear, native trout across the West, wilderness safety, and the lessons they picked up backpacking and fishing far from the road.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/988

#987 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/987

Presented by: No See Um Lodge

Alaska trout fishing changes throughout the season, and Caleb Hitzfeld has spent nearly two decades watching those changes firsthand. In this episode, Caleb explains how salmon fry, insects, mice, eggs, and streamers shape Alaska trout fishing. No See Um Lodge also shares how the lodge's fly-out program gives anglers access to different rivers. The conversation begins with Caleb's journey from Texas to Alaska and eventually to owning No See Um Lodge.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/987

#986 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/986

Presented by: Jackson Hole Fly Company, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Golden Fly Shop, TroutRoutes

Nearly 90 years after Grand Coulee Dam cut these fish off from the ocean, Steven Bird still fishes Upper Columbia rainbows that act a whole lot like steelhead. Today, we’re getting into Trout Spey, wet flies, reading water, and the history behind this unique fishery.

Steven is the author of Trout Spey and the Art of the Swing and associate editor at Swing the Fly. He shares what he’s learned from decades on the Upper Columbia, along with swinging soft hackles, fishing small spiders, and finding good swing water.

We also cover dead-drifting Bombers, leader setups, the Leisenring Lift, and what has changed on Steven’s home water over the years.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/986

#985 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/985

Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory

Michelle Edwards is a fly tyer and former guide who spent years fishing and guiding the South Fork of the Snake. We get into South Fork hatches, guide flies, nymphing from a drift boat, streamer fishing for bigger trout, and the lessons Michelle carried with her from Colorado to Idaho.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/985

#984 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/984

Presented by: Drifthook, TroutRoutes, No See Um Lodge, Togiak River Lodge

In this episode, Todd Karnas of Eastern Guides shares what he has learned from more than 15 years of fishing around St. John's and the Avalon Peninsula. We cover Atlantic salmon, small rivers, surface flies, sea-run trout, resident brown trout, capelin, water conditions, and the best time to experience each fishery.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/984

#983 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/983

Presented by: Golden Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, On DeMark Lodge, Pescador on the Fly

Strike indicator techniques for stillwaters can be one of the most effective ways to control the depth and speed of your flies.

In this Littoral Zone episode, Phil Rowley takes us through his indicator system, from choosing the right indicator and building leaders to setting exact depth and casting long rigs. We also get into bobber stops, swivels, depth locators, and the naked technique with long leaders and weighted flies.

Phil also answers Brad from Arizona’s questions about anchor rope length and shares practical tips for getting your flies to fish at the depth and speed you intended.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/983

#982 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/982

Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Gallatin River Lodge, Fly Fish with Me Utah, Sullivan Fly Rods

In this episode, Dave talks with Sascha Clark Danylchuk, executive director of Keep Fish Wet and a fisheries scientist, about simple ways anglers can improve the outcome for every fish they release. Catch-and-release is more than getting a fish back into the water. How long a fish stays out of the water, what it touches, how long it is handled, and the water temperature can all affect what happens after release.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/982

#981 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/981

Presented By: TroutRoutes

In this episode, Dave talks with Tim Cammisa of Trout and Feather about exploring new trout water with a better plan. Tim explains how he uses TroutRoutes, access maps, USGS streamflow data, local information, and backup locations before leaving home. The planning does not end when Tim reaches the river. He confirms access, checks water temperature, watches for insects and rising fish, and studies the dominant water type before choosing a fly. Dave and Tim also discuss river-reading, technology, social media, and protective trout water.

#981 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/981

#980 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/980

Presented by: On DeMark Lodge, Golden Fly Shop, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Jackson Hole Fly Company

On a fall weekend in South Bend, Indiana, you can hear the Notre Dame marching band from the river while swinging a fly for steelhead.

Tim Scott has spent more than 30 years fishing these waters where steelhead, St. Joe smallmouth, and streamer fishing are all part of the experience. He is also the co-founder of Tie-A-Thon, which started with a goal of a couple thousand flies and has now passed 500,000, supporting groups that use fly fishing for education, therapy, veterans, and kids.

We also dig into Tim’s steelhead setup, his sink-tip system, and a Clouser-style minnow inspired by the work of Fox Statler and Kevin Feenstra.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/980

#979 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/979

Presented by: Blue Bonefish Lodge

In this episode, Chris Leeman of Blue Bonefish Lodge explains how Sargasso has changed fishing Belize around Ambergris Caye. He also breaks down seasonal opportunities for tarpon and bonefish, why full moons can produce excellent fishing, and why July may be one of Belize's most overlooked months.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/979

#978 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/978

Presented by: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, TroutRoutes, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Marlon Prince gives us a guide's view of New Brunswick, including the famous Miramichi River and a long list of fisheries that don't always get the same attention. We dig into when to come, what to bring, how the spring salmon fishery works, and why New Brunswick has become much more than a place anglers drive through on their way somewhere else.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/978

Show Notes: http://wetflyswing.com/977

Sponsors: http://wetflyswing.com/Sponsors

In this episode, we’re digging back into a conversation with Ed Engle, one of the longtime voices in fishing and tying small flies.

Ed has spent decades fishing technical trout water, and his approach is less about making things complicated and more about getting the fundamentals right.

We’re pulling out 14 of Ed’s best tips for fishing small flies, including why size comes before color, how close you should get to feeding trout, and why a longer leader isn’t always the answer.

You’ll also hear how Ed reads a trout’s position in the water before making a cast, why he wants an unweighted nymph somewhere in his rig, and how he uses movement when fishing small BWO nymphs.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why you shouldn’t fish a smaller fly than the trout require
• Why simple patterns can be so effective in tiny sizes
• Why Ed often sticks with a 9- to 10-foot leader instead of going extra long
• How to adjust your hook set when presenting a dry fly downstream
• How Ed swings small wet flies to rising trout
• Why BWO nymphs don’t always need to be dead-drifted
• How a weighted fly can help an unweighted nymph move naturally
• What a trout’s vertical position tells you about whether it’s actively feeding
• Why actually seeing your tiny dry fly matters
• How to make your fly the first thing a trout sees
• Why slack-line casts become so important on technical water
• How the way a trout rises to your fly can tell you whether your presentation is right
• Why Ed wants to get as close to a trout as possible without changing its behavior
• Why matching the size of the natural is Ed’s #1 priority

Ed’s approach comes back to simplicity. When you find the natural insect, start by figuring out its size. Get that right first. If your fly also comes close in color and silhouette, even better but size is where Ed starts.

We’ll also hear why Ed believes small-fly fishing is ultimately about having as little as possible between you and the fish.

If you fish midges, BWOs, tricos, technical tailwaters, or selective rising trout, this episode gives you 14 ideas you can take straight to the water.

#976 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/976

Presented by: Fly Fish with me Utah, FishHound Expeditions, Drifthook Fly Fishing

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Kara Knight is a steelhead angler, casting instructor, longtime lodge professional, and competitive caster based in British Columbia. We get into the Dean, Spey-O-Rama, steelhead conservation, casting practice, competition gear, and the lessons Kara has picked up from years spent around some of BC’s great steelhead rivers.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/976

975 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/975

Presented by: Gallatin River Lodge

Ask ten Montana anglers where to fish, and you’ll probably hear ten different answers. Every now and then, someone points you toward a stretch that still feels a little overlooked. Today, we’re heading into southwest Montana for some Gallatin River fly fishing with someone who has called Bozeman home for more than 30 years.

Ryan Kirt has lived in Bozeman for 32 years and has been connected with Gallatin River Lodge for more than a decade. He shares what makes the Gallatin different, from private-access fishing and wade fishing to late-summer terrestrials, streamers, and nymphs.

We also cover the best rods and flies for the Gallatin, how to build a three-day Montana fishing trip, and what makes Gallatin River Lodge a special base for exploring Southwest Montana.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/975

#974 Show Notes https://www.wetflyswing.com/974

Presented by: Drifthook, AVC Rig, Redd's Flies, Golden Fly Shop

In this episode, Chris takes us from that first Alaska salmon encounter to some of the biggest conservation efforts Trout Unlimited has worked on, including the Roadless Rule, Bristol Bay, the Klamath, Yankee Fork restoration, and Apache trout recovery. More than anything, the conservation shows why Trout Unlimited believes anglers can make a real difference when they speak up, stay involved, and protect the waters they care about.

Show Notes https://www.wetflyswing.com/974

#973 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/973

Presented by: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Jerry Darkes has spent decades chasing lake trout across the Great Lakes as a manufacturer’s rep, guide, instructor, travel host, and author. He shares his experience finding lake trout in shallow and deep water and tracking their seasonal movements.

We cover the history and recovery of lake trout in the Great Lakes, the evolution of fly lines and patterns, boat and shoreline strategies, retrieves, hook sets, and what it takes to land a 10- to 20-pound lake trout on the fly.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/973

#972 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/972

Presented by: Intrepid Camp Gear

In this episode, McCormick Snow takes us behind the scenes of outdoor gear design and shares how his product development background has changed how he thinks about the equipment we bring outdoors. McCormick studied Outdoor Product Design and Development at Utah State University before joining Intrepid Camp Gear and moving to Colorado. Fly fishing became an obsession along the way, giving him another way to connect to his career with the outdoors.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/972

#971 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/971

Presented by: Patagonia

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Rachel Finn has spent decades guiding anglers on New York's famous Ausable River while building a career as an artist and conservation advocate. Our conversation covers everything from climate challenges facing trout streams to travel, art, saltwater adventures, and why curiosity never stops making us better anglers.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/971

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/970

Sponsors: Redd’s Flies, Fly Fish with Me Utah, Golden Fly Shop, Gallatin River Lodge

Today we’re bringing back one of the most-listened-to conversations in the Wet Fly Swing archive with Craig Mathews, a lifelong angler, author, conservationist, and founder of Blue Ribbon Flies. Craig has spent nearly seven decades fly fishing, and in this Re-Release episode from 2023, we cover everything from Yellowstone caddis hatches and trout fishing to conservation, fly tying, and some unforgettable stories from his years in West Yellowstone.

Craig takes us back to his early days in Michigan and the move that eventually landed him in Montana. What was supposed to be a one-year adventure turned into a new life when Craig became the police chief of West Yellowstone. A few years later, while making $9,000 a year as police chief, he started a wholesale fly-tying operation that employed people with disabilities. That business became Blue Ribbon Flies in 1979 and eventually grew to four fly shops.

Blue Ribbon Flies became a gathering place for anglers, fly tiers, writers, and some of the biggest personalities in fly fishing. Craig shares stories about Jack Gartside, Gary LaFontaine, and the constant flow of people through the shop. He remembers Gary as someone who could walk into a fly shop and immediately get everyone fired up about fishing, insects, and fly patterns.

Conservation is another major part of Craig’s story. He talks about his longtime friendship with Yvon Chouinard and how their shared commitment to giving back helped launch 1% for the Planet. Craig explains how businesses can support approved conservation organizations and shares examples of projects that have protected habitat and public access around the Madison River and Montana.

Then we get into one of Craig’s specialties: caddis and fishing caddis.

Craig breaks down several important Yellowstone-area caddis hatches and explains how anglers can better identify what trout are actually eating. His biggest lesson is simple: slow down and watch the river. Instead of immediately stepping into the water and casting, spend a few minutes observing rise forms, insect activity, and what’s moving through the water.

Craig also explains why fly pattern is often blamed when presentation is the real problem. Getting closer to the fish, choosing the right tippet, controlling drag, and making accurate casts can matter far more than constantly changing flies.

We also cover the X-Caddis, Iris Caddis, spent caddis patterns, pheasant tail flies, and why Craig uses pheasant tail for much more than nymphs.

Finally, Craig takes us into the wilder side of old West Yellowstone, sharing stories from his police chief days involving motorcycle gangs, organized crime, and the relationships he built with people passing through town. Decades later, one of those former encounters even turned into a day of fishing together.

This episode is part fly-fishing lesson, part Yellowstone history, and part reminder of how much can happen when you spend a lifetime paying attention to rivers, insects, conservation, and people.

969 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/969

Presented by: Patagonia

Today's guest has spent years guiding trout anglers in Colorado, but these days he's measuring success by something bigger than just the fish that make it to the net.

Austin Campbell is a Colorado fly fishing guide, Patagonia ambassador, and founder and executive director of Community Fly Fishing. He shares his approach to the South Platte, fishing the Deckers section, finding trout on dry flies, and knowing when to leave the bobber behind.

We cover George Daniel and the Penn State fly fishing program, warm-water challenges during a tough Colorado season, and how Community Fly Fishing is creating zero-barrier opportunities in Colorado, Chicago, Atlanta, the Bahamas, and Belize.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/969

#968 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/968

Presented by: Stonefly Nets, Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Togiak River Lodge, TroutRoutes

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Pat Ehlers has been fly fishing since he was a kid exploring trout streams in Wisconsin's Upper Peninsula. Over the years, his curiosity expanded far beyond trout, leading him to become one of the leading voices in warmwater fly fishing and innovative fly design.

We dug into bass behavior, fly line selection, fly tying materials, electronics, and how lessons from conventional bass fishing continue to improve fly fishing techniques.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/968

967 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/967

Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho

The greatest fly patterns don’t just catch fish, they stand the test of time and become part of fly fishing history.

Fly tyer and author Al Ritt shares the stories behind his book, 25 Best Most Versatile Flies, and some of the most useful patterns in fly fishing. We explore classics including the Adams, Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Royal Wulff, and Clouser Minnow.

We explore Al's long history in fly tying, the East Idaho Fly Tying Expo, his own fly patterns, and his approach to teaching beginners and learning the techniques behind fly tying.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/967

#966 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/966

Presented by: TroutRoutes, FishHound Expeditions, Yellowstone Teton Territory - Visit Idaho, Jackson Hole Fly Company.

In this episode, we speak with longtime fly-fishing author Skip Morris about his latest published book, Imposters, and a collection of essays that brings together fly patterns, fishing history, personal stories, and artwork by his wife, Carol Ann Morris. Skip also shares practical lessons from decades on the water, including his “turn-down trick” for presenting a fly to rising trout, why action and size can matter more than constantly changing patterns, and how classic dry flies and wet flies still have a place in today's fly box.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/966

http://wetflyswing.com/965

Sponsors: Sullivan Fly Rods, On DeMark Lodge, Redds Flies

Dave shares the story of his father, Doug Stewart, who recently passed away at 87. Doug was the person who introduced Dave to fly fishing, and his influence eventually helped lead to the creation of the Wet Fly Swing Podcast.

Doug’s own fly fishing story reaches back more than 70 years.

He first started fishing the Deschutes River with his father in the early 1950s, when seeing a dozen anglers on the river could make it feel crowded. He eventually became a longtime Deschutes guide, fly shop owner, fly tyer, rod builder, writer, and teacher who introduced countless people to fly fishing.

Doug was also the creator of the Max Canyon steelhead fly. He tells the story of sitting under the trees with Steve Dorn during a brutally hot day on the Deschutes. With fishing slowed down, they started tying flies to pass the time. Doug liked orange and black, put the colors together, and eventually refined the pattern that became the Max Canyon.

We also hear about the early days of Stewart’s Custom Tackle, which later became Stewart’s Fly Shop. Doug talks about building the business through word of mouth, teaching casting and fly tying, and watching A River Runs Through It bring a surge of new anglers into fly fishing.

But this episode goes well beyond the history of a fly shop or a famous steelhead pattern.

Doug shares stories from decades on the water, including hooking and releasing 58 steelhead with Jim Teeny during an incredible day of fishing, falling into the Deschutes while fighting a steelhead, encounters with bears in Alaska, and watching the fly fishing world change around him.

Teaching runs through much of Doug’s story. Before going full-time in fly fishing, he was a seventh and eighth grade teacher. He later brought that same mindset to the fly shop, guiding, casting lessons, fly tying classes, and the many anglers he helped along the way.

Dave also reflects on what that influence looks like today. Doug taught him to fish. Dave passed some of those lessons to friends, who then taught their own kids. That ripple effect may be one of Doug’s greatest legacies.

Near the end of their original conversation, Doug is asked what he would like to be remembered for. His answer comes back to the people: running the fly shop, teaching people to cast and tie flies, learning from others, and staying connected to the fly fishing community.

This episode is ultimately about more than fly fishing.

It’s about fathers, sons, teachers, friends, and the limited amount of time we get together.

If your dad, father figure, mentor, or fishing partner is still around, give them a call. And if you still have the chance to take another fishing trip together, don’t wait too long to make it happen.

#964 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/964

Presented by: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, AVC Rig, Fishhound Expeditions

Sponsors: https://www.wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Paul Plum entered our Scott Lake Lodge giveaway without expecting much to happen. A few weeks later, he got the call that changed his summer. Together, we traveled deep into northern Saskatchewan, where world-class fishing, incredible hospitality, and untouched wilderness created an experience neither of us will forget.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/964

963 Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/963

Presented by: Moccasin Fly Club

Big predator flies are built for explosive strikes, brutal fights, and anglers who live for the hunt.

From striped bass on Long Island to peacock bass in the Amazon, Max Rivetta has spent years tying flies for predator fish. As the in-house fly tyer and host of Moccasin Fly Club, he shares the techniques, materials, and lessons he's learned along the way.

We cover Bob Popovics' influence on modern fly design, choosing high-quality bucktail, preparing for destination trips, and why connecting with other fly tyers is one of the fastest ways to improve your skills.

Show Notes: https://www.wetflyswing.com/963

962 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/962

Presented By: Montana Fly Fishing Lodge, Togiak River Lodge, Drifthook, Blue Bonefish Lodge

Fly fishing has always been about more than catching fish; it's about building connections, sharing experiences, and protecting the waters that bring people together. In this episode, host Dave Stewart sits down with Kyle Schaefer, founder of Soulfly Co Outfitters, to discuss how his company is bringing those values to life through music, fly fishing, and conservation. Together, they explore how Soulfly Co. is creating a welcoming community that inspires both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/962

We're officially past the halfway point of 2026, and it's been one of the biggest years yet for the Wet Fly Swing Podcast. We've expanded to four full-length interviews every week, added new shows from some of the biggest names in fly fishing, traveled to incredible destinations, and continued growing the Wet Fly Swing Pro community.

One question we get all the time is, "What episodes should I start with?"

To answer that, we pulled together the 10 most-listened-to episodes of the year so far. Whether you're interested in casting, dry-dropper fishing, Euro nymphing, steelhead, fly rod design, or planning your next destination trip, this list is a great place to dive in.

The Top 10 Episodes of 2026:

10. Jason Randall – Dry Dropper Fishing Beyond the Basics (Episode 928)

Jason Randall breaks down the divot, pivot, and twist system while sharing practical ways to improve your dry-dropper fishing beyond the basics.

9. John Hazel – Origins of Spey Casting & the Deschutes River (Episode 934)

A fascinating conversation with one of the pioneers of Spey fishing on the Deschutes River, covering the history of steelhead fishing and how the sport evolved.

8. Paul Arden – Why Anglers Stop Improving (Episode 939)

Sexyloops founder Paul Arden shares fly casting insights, explains common mistakes, and discusses why many anglers eventually plateau.

7. Jeff Liskay – The Steelhead Swing System (Episode 898)

A special presentation recorded during one of our fly fishing boot camps that gives listeners a taste of a Wet Fly Swing masterclass.

6. Larry Kenney – Inside Scott Fly Rods (Episode 906)

Scott Fly Rods founder Larry Kenney shares the company's history, innovations, and what makes Scott rods unique.

5. Connor Quigley – Inside Thomas & Thomas (Episode 948)

Connor Quigley discusses fly rod design, innovation, and the development of travel-friendly six-piece Spey rods.

4. Ed Jaworowski – The Science of a Perfect Fly Cast (Episode 897)

One of fly fishing's legendary casting instructors returns to explain the principles behind a better, more efficient cast.

3. Devin Olsen & Jack Arnett – Competitive Dry Fly Fishing (Episode 922)

Members of Team USA discuss competitive dry fly fishing and how they prepare for international competition.

2. Jordan Larson – From Filmmaker to Togiak River Lodge Owner (Episode 947)

Jordan shares the unexpected journey that took him from filmmaking into owning one of Alaska's premier fly fishing lodges.

1. Mark Melnyk – Giant Northern Pike at Scott Lake Lodge (Episode 946)

Our most popular episode of the year features Mark Melnyk of The New Fly Fisher discussing giant northern pike, lake trout, and the incredible fisheries of northern Saskatchewan. It became even more meaningful after our own trip to Scott Lake Lodge confirmed just how special the destination really is.

Looking Ahead

The second half of the year is shaping up to be just as exciting. We're planning new schools, destination trips to places like Belize and Iceland, more YouTube content, and continued growth inside the Wet Fly Swing Pro community. We'll also continue bringing on some of the best guides, anglers, and innovators in fly fishing to help you become a better angler.

If you're looking for your next episode, start with this Top 10 list. These conversations resonated with thousands of anglers this year, and there's a good chance you'll find a few new favorites of your own.