Have you ever heard someone say, you need to twitch your fly or you need to twitch it more? Have you heard about jigging or using jigs in fly fishing and how this is such an effective method today? We bring both of these together as we jump back into Alaska and Northern Bristol Bay.
Jeremy Freisz is here to share the twitching jig method and why pink is the only color you need for Togiak River success. Learn how to plan your trip and the exact tips you need for success in Alaska this year.
Show Notes with Jeremy Freisz on Tactics for Togiak River Success. Hit play below! 👇🏻
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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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Episode Chapters with Jeremy Freisz on Tactics for Togiak River Success
02:00 – Jeremy Freisz shares his journey of discovering fly fishing later in life, initially influenced by his family’s outdoor activities.
Over the years, Jeremy’s passion grew, leading to summers in Alaska at Togiak River Lodge and even starting to guide for Red’s Fly Shop.
Check out our episode on Reds Fly Shop with Joe Rotter.
Jeremy recently bought a customized Bighorn Skiff from StealthCraft.
Twitching Jig Method
07:37 – Jeremy discusses his evolution as an angler, from novice to adapting new techniques like bead fishing in Alaska.
Over the years, he has experimented with Twitching Jigs, initially inspired by his uncle’s success with them on spinning rods.
12:40 – Jeremy emphasizes the effectiveness of pink-colored flies. He ties all his flies for Togiak in pink.
He emphasizes the importance of the sparkle in the fly to catch their attention, especially for resident dollies and sea run dollies that are active in the salt and likely associate pink with shrimp.
Timing and Fishing Conditions in the Togiak River
17:00 – Jeremy notes that the timing of tides does impact fishing at the lodge, especially regarding water clarity and fish behavior. When the tide is coming in, the water gets murky, influencing fish activity.
Conversely, when the tide is going out, the water becomes clearer, and fish tend to be more reactive. However, these tide effects diminish about two miles upriver from the lodge.
Jeremy recommends timing your trip to Togiak based on your fishing preferences. For targeting Chinook salmon. However, for the best trout fishing experience, Jeremy suggests going later in the king salmon season, around the end of July.
Togiak River Lodge
22:35 – Jeremy paints a vivid picture of the Togiak Lodge experience. The lodge sits amidst breathtaking tundra landscapes, with braids of the Togiak River weaving through, and numerous ponds dotting the terrain.
Behind the lodge lies a pike pond, offering anglers the chance to catch pike alongside other Pacific salmon species, rainbow trout, dolly varden, and grayling.
Bugs and Bears
Jeremy acknowledges the concern about bugs in Alaska, particularly the relentless mosquitoes in the Togiak region. He shares his experience with giant mosquitoes, emphasizing the need for mosquito netting when venturing into mosquito-heavy areas.
Additionally, he mentions encountering grizzly bears, especially in late July, adding an element of excitement to the wilderness experience.
Being Prepared for Alaska’s Weather
Jeremy recounts experiences of continuous rain and cold winds during his time at Togiak Lodge. He recommends specific clothing items for fishing in such conditions, including:
- Good quality waders
- Sturdy rain jackets, preferably full rubber for river floats
- Electric clothing like vests for staying warm
- Carrying multiple rain jackets and a dry bag for extra clothes
Key Takeaways for an Alaska Fishing Trip
Jeremy offers three essential takeaways for anyone planning an Alaska fishing trip:
- Manage Expectations: Understand that fishing can be unpredictable, and not every day will yield abundant catches. Enjoy the adventure regardless of fishing outcomes.
- Be Prepared for Bad Weather: Expect challenging weather conditions, delays, and travel disruptions. Embrace these as part of the Alaskan experience rather than letting them detract from your enjoyment.
- Consider Group Travel: Opt for traveling with a group for a more enjoyable experience, fostering camaraderie, shared experiences, and lasting memories.
Follow Jeremy on Instagram @jfreisz2_fly_fishing
Visit Togiak River Lodge
[keyword] Videos Noted in the Show
Related Podcast Episodes
Reds Fly Shop with Joe Rotter — Blue Winged Olive Mayfly Hatch, Yakima River (WFS 186)
WFS 379 – StealthCraft Boats with Mike Batcke – Driftboats, PowerDrifters, Rafts
WFS 406 – George Cook on Fly Fishing for King Salmon in Alaska – Kanektok River, Spey, Alaska West
Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below
Conclusion with Jeremy Freisz on Tactics for Togiak River Success
So there you have it! Jeremy Freisz shared some incredible insights into Alaska fishing, from the twitching jig method to the importance of pink-colored flies.
Remember, managing expectations, being prepared for the weather, and considering group travel are key takeaways for a successful trip. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Alaska!
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