Get ready to embark on a fishing adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada. Join us in this episode as we welcome Kelly Reaume, one of the Founders of Backcountry Skinz. Brothers, Mike and Kelly are two Ontario natives with an unquenchable passion for fly fishing, who have embraced the alpine lakes and rivers of Calgary and BC as their playground. Together, we explore the joy of reeling in bull trout, the thrill of being the only ones on the river, and the almost mythical allure of untouched wilderness.
Show Notes with Kelly Reaume – Backcountry Skinz. Hit play below! 👇🏻
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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Prepare to be intrigued as we unravel the innovative concept of neoprene compression pants for fishermen. A brainchild birthed from their personal experiences, these pants are a game-changer for fly fishing outfits, offering extra warmth and portability. Hear their entrepreneurial journey, from funding the first prototypes with Mike’s wedding money to the creative design process that brings their unique vision to life.
As we navigate through the world of fly fishing, we delve into their plans to expand the brand in Canada and beyond. We discuss the saltwater fly fishing scene, their dealer in New Zealand, and their ambitious global outreach. We also touch on the affordability of their neoprene compression pants, the peculiar challenges posed by Canada’s small population, and their strategic response. Wrap up with a quick lesson on bull trout fishing in Alberta and learn from the best the right flies to use and the perfect technique to present the fly. This episode is not just about fishing; it’s about the joy of creativity, the courage of entrepreneurship, and the relentless pursuit of passion.
Episode Chapters – Backcountry Skinz
(0:00:05) – Exploring Fly Fishing in Western Canada
Mike and Kelly share their fly fishing experiences in Calgary and BC, discussing the rivers, mountains, bull trout, and alpine lakes.
(0:07:53) – Neoprene Leggings for Fishing
Mike and Kelly created neoprene compression pants for fishermen, using wedding money for the first prototypes, with benefits such as extra warmth and easy packing.
(0:15:26) – Discussion on Fishing Shorts and Designs
Neoprene compression pants offer lightweight protection, UV ray protection, comfort, and compression support for knee issues.
(0:21:49) – Expanding Fishing Brand in Canada
Mike and Kelly discuss saltwater fly fishing, international outreach, Canada/US differences, neoprene compression pants, and content creation.
(0:31:13) – Fishing for Bull Trout
Mike and Kelly suggest using small nymphs to catch bull trout in Alberta’s headwaters in July and August, and Kokani in November and December, with a technique of casting upstream and downstream.
(0:40:47) – Fly Fishing Industry Marketing Strategies
Mike and Kelly share their passion for music, discussing genres, setting the tone for fly fishing, and tips for Alberta.
(0:45:42) – Joe Rogan, Fishing, and Waterproofing
Joe Rogan’s podcast discusses Back Country Skins’ new products, fly fishing tips, and favorite music.
(0:50:43) – Floating and Fishing With Backcountry Skins
Mike and Kelly share tips on catching bull trout, discuss neoprene compression pants for fly fishing, and explore Joe Rogan’s podcast and ‘Back Country Skins’ business.
Follow Backcountry Skinz on Instagram @backcountryskinz
Check out their website at BackcountrySkinz.com
Related Podcast Episodes
WFS 450 – Trout Unlimited Canada with Lesley Peterson – Bull Trout, Cows & Fish, 50 Years
WFS 315 – The Telescoping Fly Rod from Reyr Gear with Derek Roedel
Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below
Conclusion with Kelly Reaume – Backcountry Skinz
Our journey into Western Canada’s fly fishing with Backcountry Skinz founders, Mike and Kelly Reaume, unveils a captivating story. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes and the thrill of bull trout fishing, the episode spotlights Backcountry Skinz’s game-changing product—the neoprene compression pants. Born from personal experiences, these pants redefine fly fishing with added warmth and portability. Backcountry Skinz not only offers valuable fishing insights but also stands as a beacon of innovation and passion. So, gear up for your next adventure with Backcountry Skinz, transforming the way you experience the world of fly fishing.
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