WFS 424 – Euro Nymphing with the French Fly Fisherman – Farmington, Hendricksons, Sulfur Hatch

French Fly Fisherman

The French Fly Fisherman Antoine is here to take us to Euro nymphing. We find out how to present your fly more effectively and how to identify big fish, and we touch on many of the Farmington river hatches today.

We also find out why Antoine traded his ski boots for a fishing rod. Antoine also shares his tips on guiding and teaching beginners, including those who are not confident with their fly casting.

French Fly Fisherman with Antoine Bissieux. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

French Fly Fisherman
Photo via https://www.facebook.com/antoine.bissieux

French Fly Fisherman Show Notes with Antoine Bissieux

4:00 –  Antoine worked with Kyle Leard and Pete Kutzer at the Orvis Fly Fishing School for several years before moving to Connecticut with his wife. He became a guide on the Farmington River, where he shares his expertise in Euro nymphing and identifying big fish.

French Fly Fisherman
Photo via https://www.facebook.com/OrvisDarien/

08:47 – Antoine started skiing competitively at age 12 in the Alps until he was 16. Later, he met an American woman in Paris at 21, and they eventually settled in New York for 15 years before moving to Vermont. 

9:44 – Antoine had to quit skiing after breaking his back and having 20 screws put in it. He continued to ski until his doctor advised him to stop to avoid being confined to a wheelchair. He now channels his passion into fly fishing, fly tying, and building automatic watches.

Antoine Bissieux
Photo via https://www.facebook.com/antoine.bissieux

11:45 Antoine tells us the story of how he got into Orvis School. We did several episodes on Orvis before. We had an episode with Perk Perkins and also with Tom Rosenbauer.

14:35 – Antoine discusses the year-round fishing opportunities at the Farmington River, a tailwater fishery known for its excellent brown trout population. He said late spring is considered the best time to fish there.

19:16 Antoine delves into Euro nymphing, sharing tips and techniques especially useful for those interested in learning competition tactics.

22:01 – Antoine shares insights on the equipment he uses for fly fishing, including his preference for high-end gear and his practice of building his own leader. He uses a Scientific Angler competitive line like the SA Mastery Euro Tactical Mono Nymph Fly Line.

Photo via https://mossycreekflyfishing.com/

24:00 – Antoine uses a Hardy 9’9″ 2wt rod for Euro nymphing and a longer 11 and 1/2 rod for go-all conditions. He also uses his Hardy 9’9″ 2wt rod for low-water conditions in the summer when fish may be more easily spooked.

28:32 – Antoine shares his approach to building leaders, using Devaux, a French brand, for most leaders and combining it with Orvis’s tippet. He also notes that for beginners, he starts with thicker leaders to help them get a feel for casting.

38:05 – Antoine shares with us how the fishing conditions at the Farmington River vary throughout the year. He also talks about Euro Nymphing in different conditions at the Farmington River.
French Fly Fisherman

42:40 – Antoine shares that the Farmington River has a healthy population of big fish, with 20-inch brown trout and wild fish being a common catch.

47:49 – Antoine shares some valuable insights on identifying trophy-sized fish and techniques for presenting your fly effectively to increase your chances of catching them. He also talks about his approach to guiding visitors who may not have great fly-casting skills. He said he uses a lot of CDC.

French Fly Fisherman
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/the_frenchflyfisherman/

59:06 – We discussed the hatches on the Farmington River, particularly the Hendrickson hatch, which used to be a major event but has become less stable due to changes in water flow. They also have the glimmer hatch, caddis, blue-winged olives, and winter caddis.

1:05:45 – The Farmington River has a major Isonychia hatch that starts in June and goes until mid-November.

1:07:38 – We then talked about fly shops around the Farmington River. Of course, there’s Orvis and also UpCountry

French Fly Fisherman
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/bissieux

1:09: 36 – Antoine discussed a new product called SwimWell ™ Oxygenated Fish Recovery Spray, which sprays oxygen onto fish to aid in their recovery. The product is set to be showcased at an upcoming fishing show in Denver.

1:12:08 – Antoine shared that if he had to choose just one fly, it would be a size 16 Perdigon. And if he could choose one river to return to before he dies, it would be the river in the eastern part of the Pyrenees.


You can connect with Antoine via Facebook at Antoine Bissieux.

Instagram at @the_frenchflyfisherman

Visit his website at The French Fly Fisherman

 

French Fly Fisherman

Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 225 – Orvis Fly Fishing with Perk Perkins – Saltwater, Bass, Travel, Family

Orvis Fly Fishing with Tom Rosenbauer – Podcasting, Battenkill River (WFS 063)

Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below



French Fly Fisherman

French Fly Fisherman Conclusion with Antoine Bissieux

We enjoyed learning from French Fly Fisherman Antoine Bissieux about Euro nymphing and effective fly presentation. He shared his passion for fishing, his experience in guiding beginners, and his tips on identifying trophy-sized fish. We also learned about the different hatches at the Farmington River throughout the year

Traveled #4: East Idaho Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo with Bruce Staples – House of Harrop, Yellowstone Teton

fly fishing expo

Bruce Staples takes us on a journey inside the Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo. We find and hear about some of the histories of the people who made this event unique. Bruce breaks down the list of the fly fishing icons that will be there, what you can expect, and why you should be there this year.

We also hear about the great Teton Dam story, how it came to be, and why it got destroyed. Bruce was on the podcast for the first time at WFS 269 so it’s great to check back with him. Here we go…


Fly Fishing Expo with Bruce Staples. Hit play below!

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Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

fly fishing expo

Show Notes with Bruce Staples

03:00 – We just did an episode with Jon Stiehl from Trout Hunter where we talked mostly about the Henry’s Fork river.

3:45 – We had Bruce on the podcast for the first time in episode 269.

07:00 – The first Fly Fishing Expo they did was in 1994 at a local hotel.

16:40 – We talk about the House of Harrop.

18:10 – Mike Lawson was on the podcast in episode 190.

20:10 – Bruce mentioned Doug Gibson from Three River Ranch and a bunch of other names who will be at the Fly Fishing Expo this year.

fly fishing expo

24:30 – Steven Fernandez is one of the top fly tyers in the country.

fly fishing expo

30:40 – Dan Bailey promoted Montana so much that it became a well-known fly-fishing destination.

fly fishing expo

38:30 – Bruce tells the story of how the Teton Dam came to be in the 60s and how it got destroyed in the 70s.

43:15 – We talk about the Banquet at the Fly Fishing Expo.

45:00 – You can check out what they have going at SRCexpo.com

58:20 – Bruce’s rod of choice is a 9-foot 6 wt. His top fly is a Dry Muddler.

1:00:00 – Tip: Watch the water. Observe and stay undercover.


You can find SRCExpo on Instagram @snakerivercutthroats

Visit their website at SnakeRiverCutthroats.org

fly fishing expo


Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 269 – A Guide to Yellowstone Fly Fishing with Bruce Staples


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


WFS 422 – Top Umpqua Flies with Brent Bauer – New Products, Patterns, Hippie Stomper

umpqua flies

Brent Bauer of Umpqua Feather Merchants is here to talk about the top Umpqua flies and products they have in their line.

We hear about how a fly makes it through the Umpqua cut list, the process, some funny stories, and some of their most popular flies. A man who has been at Umpqua since back in the day, here we go with Brent Bauer.


Umpqua Flies with Brent Bauer. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

umpqua flies

Umpqua Flies Show Notes with Brent Bauer

3:07 – I mention episode 303 with Russ Miller about how Umpqua Feather Merchants came to be.

3:37 – Brent talks about how he got into fly fishing. He grew up in Oregon on the Coast Fork Willamette River.

Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/coastfork/

5:23 – Their family moved to Southern California when he was in high school.

8:04 – He shared how he got connected with Umpqua. His first professional gig in fly fishing was in Westbank Anglers in Houston, Texas in ’97, then he got into Umpqua in the early 2000s as a dealer support manager.

12:29 – He takes us back to the downturn back then at the company.

16:25 – He shares his second favorite job at Umpqua and the challenges they deal with working in the company.

18:56 – They are the first company that introduced the taper leader. They are also the largest seller of fly fishing hooks in the US.

20:41 – He tells the categories of their products which are flies, hooks, leaders, tippet, streamside, fly tying, and bags. Currently, Brent is the Director of Product Management. He handles all new product designs and development in all categories.

25:05 – He walks us through the process of deciding on which fly designs go in their catalog. He and Jeff Fryhover, their President, have been members of their fly committee for over two decades now.

umpqua flies
Umpqua founder Dennis Black (left) with current President and CEO Jeff Fryhover (Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/stories/50-years-a-river-runs-through-it-the-90s/)

29:20 – He talks about their collaboration process with their fly tyers.

31:32 – We talk a bit about travel. He already has been to Alphonse in Seychelles.

33:00 – He shares their top-selling categories. One of the products he mentions is the hippie stomper.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/hippie-stomper/

34:52 – I ask him if they keep track of their top products every year. They do extremely well in dry flies in general. They’re the hardest flies to tie.

35:34 – He mentions the stimulator by one of their signature tyers, Randall Kauffman.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/stimulator-kaufmanns/

36:16 – He mentions other trending categories at Umpqua.

38:03 – He shares how they name their flies.

38:55 – He gives us a rundown of their bestselling flies. Among them are the chubby chernobyl, elk caddies, and hippie stomper.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/chubby-chernobyl/

39:20 – We dig into the hippie stomper. He recommends a red size 14 hippie stomper. He says it’s a deadly fly.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/hippie-stomper/

40:25 – I ask him to compare the hippie stomper with the missing link which he says is a fantastic fly.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/missing-link-honey-ant/

41:28 – He talks about their collaboration with Andrew Grillos, the signature tyer of the hippie stomper and the mini hippie stomper which they launched a couple of years ago. We had Andrew in the podcast in episode 339.

45:04 – He gives us their top nymphs. One of them is the zebra midge tungsten which he says is a killer.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/zebra-midge-tungsten/

51:01 – He talks about what sets Umpqua apart from the other companies. He mentions their signature fly designer program and the late Dave Whitlock who was their first signature fly designer.

52:38 – He also says that the other aspect of their success is the relationships created in Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India by the late Dennis Black, Umpqua founder.

umpqua flies
Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/stories/50-years-the-explosion-the-80s/

55:45 – I ask him why they placed their production in Sri Lanka. They have hundreds of tyers in each of their factories in the abovementioned countries.

57:44 – He shares the challenges they encountered having their production process in those countries.

umpqua flies
Factory tying (Photo via: https://www.umpqua.com/stories/50-years-the-explosion-the-80s/)

59:10 – We dig into the categories they look at to consider certain flies in their top list.

1:03:22 – We do the two-minute drill.

1:04:31 – He gives advice to those who are new to getting into the game.

1:06:40 – He shares what’s next for them in product development. He also mentions some products that they just launched.


You can find Umpqua on Instagram @UmpquaFeatherMerchants

and Facebook at Umpqua Feather Merchants.

Visit their website at Umpqua.com.

umpqua flies


Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 303 – Umpqua Feather Merchants with Russ Miller + Euro Nymphing Bonus

 

WFS 339 – The Hippie Stomper Fly with Andrew Grillos – Fly Tying, Stroke, Passion


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


 


Umpqua Flies Conclusion with Brent Bauer

It was a pleasure having Brent Bauer, Director of Product Management at Umpqua Feather Merchants, on the podcast to discuss their process of collaborating with signature fly tyers, and the creative process of naming the flies.

Brent shared his insights into the company’s top flies, as well as the importance of credibility and genuinity in the fly fishing industry. We’d like to thank Brent for his time and expertise, and for providing us with such a great discussion. We hope this podcast episode has provided you with a better understanding of the company, their process, and the uniqueness of their products.

What’s your favorite Umpqua fly pattern or tyer?

WFS 421 – The Anglers Academy with John Hudgens – Henry’s Fork, Bolivia, Dry fly Fishing

anglers academy

John Hudgens is here to talk about The Anglers Academy and his long history around fly fishing, education, and travel. We get a little bit of the history of the Henry’s Fork area, learn how to cast to a rising fish correctly, and find out what the parachute cast is all about. Plus, John’s 5 dry fly tips for success.

John also takes us to Bolivia and tells us why that place is his favorite fly-fishing destination. How can Anglers Academy help you develop your casting ability and make you a better angler? John breaks it all down today!


Anglers Academy with John Hudgens. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

anglers academy

Show Notes with John Hudgens

04:00 – John got a job in Bob Jacklin’s fly shop when he was 15 years old.

11:45 – John tells us about what they have going at the Anglers Academy.

14:00 – John and his wife used to work for Yellowdog Fly Fishing in Bozeman, Montana.

15:30 – I noted Jim Klug who was on the podcast in episode 87.

16:00 – “It’s hard to beat Bolivia. The fishing that exists there for Golden Dorado”

20:20 – Most people travel to Brazil for peacock bass.

22:40 – We noted the Untamed Angling and talk about the good stuff they do out there.

31:00 – Los Roques is one of John’s favorite fly fishing destinations but getting there can be quite risky especially when you arrive in Caracas.

42:00 – They teach fishing while the fishing is good. We talk about when and how they do their classes. Bob Jacklin and some other great anglers are instructors in the academy.

45:45 – John talks about Henry’s Fork fishing in May and June.

48:40 – We had Mike Lawson in episode 190 where he talked about the Green Drake hatch.

52:55 – John talks about how they teach casting mechanics.

54:00 – We had Bruce Chard on in episode 408, talking about keeping the cast low.

56:00 – He talks about how to do a parachute cast.

1:04:20 – Step 1: Get that drift correctly. Step 2: Look at your fly to know what’s happening.

1:06:30 – John tells us what’s coming up next for the Anglers Academy and how you can sign up for their classes.


You can find Anglers Academy on Instagram @theanglersacademy

Visit their website at TheAnglersAcademy.com

anglers academy


Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 227 – Montana Fly Fishing at West Yellowstone with Justin Spence from Big Sky Anglers


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


Traveled #3: Trouthunter with Jon Stiehl – Henry’s Fork, Leaders, Ranch Water

trouthunter

Jon Stiehl is here to take us to TroutHunter Lodge and how he came to own and take this famous lodge to the next level.

We get the history of the ranch water. We’ve heard a lot about that over the years. We get some inside information on Island Park. Find out about some of the cool box canyons in this area, tricos, and what makes Henry’s Fork so famous out west.


TroutHunter with Jon Stiehl. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

trouthunter

TroutHunter Show Notes with Jon Stiehl

3:31 – Jon talks about Island Park and its history. Their town is 33 miles long. The village they are in is called Last Chance. 

7:28 – They have a great bar at TroutHunter called the Last Chance Bar & Grill. Jeff Currier recommended their bar in our first traveled episode.

trouthunter
Photo via: https://www.trouthunt.com/island-park-restaurant/bar-grill

8:44 – He shares how he started the TroutHunter. He and his business partner, Rich Paini, came out as interns in 1993 to work for the Henry’s Fork Foundation. This was also the time when they met Rene Harrop.

trouthunter
The original fly shop. (Photo via: https://www.facebook.com/trouthunterlodge/)

12:08 – Working with Rene was a great help in starting the TroutHunter. The name was his idea.

13:16 – I mention our episodes with Mike Lawson and Brandon Hoffner.

13:49 – He describes Henry’s Fork which is also known as the North Fork of the Snake River.

15:12 – He talks a bit about how the Johnny Sack cabin came about

trouthunter
Photo via: https://yellowstoneteton.org/places/johnny-sacks-cabin/

17:20 – I ask him if there are other things that could be done in their area in terms of conservation. He did a socio-economic survey on angling in the area as an intern for the Henry’s Fork Foundation.

20:33 – He gives tips for those who are planning to visit and fish in their area. Harriman Ranch is crowded from June 15th to July 4th. For him, the Harriman Ranch is the biggest and most beautiful spring creek you’ve ever seen with fantastic hatches.

23:41 – We talk about nymphing in Henry’s Fork.

24:40 – We dig into the hatches in their area. He says the real gem of the whole summer is the flying ant fall. You want to make sure that you got them in your box from about the middle of July until September.

Photo via: https://www.flyfisherman.com/editorial/tips-for-fishing-an-ant-fall/152221

31:15 – He talks about the hatches from late September to early October.

33:11 – He describes the TroutHunter ranch.

38:56 – Most of their guides these days use a skiff because it is easier to navigate when windy.

trouthunter
Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/p/B_ZEu0wD6YM/?hl=en

42:00 – He talks about the brown drake and the blue-winged olives.

43:39 – We talk about flies.

45:12 – He walks us through the process of how to start when there’s a big hatch.

48:42 – He shares that time when Japanese anglers frequently visit their lodge. They had more sizes of tippets. That’s when they thought of bringing their tippets into the lodge to sell.

trouthunter
Photo via: https://trouthunter.shoplightspeed.com/trouthunter-evo-nylon-tippet.html

52:53 – He describes the extrusion process for their leaders.

58:13 – He talks about Rene Harrop and mentions the House of Harrop. He considers Rene his guiding light on fly fishing.

trouthunter
Photo via: https://www.facebook.com/trouthunterlodge/

1:03:26 – We do the two-minute drill. I first ask him about a good bar in their area that he would recommend. He recommends Shotgun and Ponds.

Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/shotgun_barip/

1:04:07 – He gives a tip on dry flies and dealing with the wind when fishing.

1:05:51 – He shares the events and things they are looking forward to in TroutHunter. He also mentions a band that their guides have put together called the Tail Hooked Whitey.

trouthunter
Photo via: https://www.facebook.com/trouthunterlodge

You can find Jon Stiehl on Instagram @TroutHunterLodge.

Facebook @TroutHunterLodge

Visit their website at TroutHunt.com

and E-Store at TroutHunter.shoplightspeed.com.

trouthunter


Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 190 – Green Drake Hatch with Mike Lawson – Henrys Fork Fly Fishing, Gary LaFontaine

 

Traveled #1: Jeff Currier on Eastern Idaho Fly Fishing – Henry’s Fork, S. Fk Snake, and Others

 

WFS 414 – Henry’s Fork Foundation with Brandon Hoffner – South Fork Snake, Yellowstone Cutthroat


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


 


trouthunter

TroutHunter Conclusion with Jon Stiehl

We had a great time speaking with Jon Stiehl of TroutHunter and learning more about the secrets he has been able to unlock in Island Park and the surrounding areas.

We have learned a lot about the hatches and what makes Henry’s Fork so famous out west. This is a great opportunity to explore and experience the beauty of nature in this area. We hope that you will be inspired to come out and explore this amazing place for yourself!

WFS 419 – Norway Fly Fishing with John Bond – Brown Trout, Montana, Swinging Flies

Photo via https://www.instagram.com/john__bond

Have you ever had to uproot your entire life and go halfway across the globe to chase a dream? That’s precisely what John Bond, the owner of Rena Fish Camp, did! We are digging into Norway Fly Fishing today on the Swing!

John Bond is here with us today to take us fishing in Norway and to talk about how he moved his drift boat, gear, and life from Montana to Norway amid COVID. We also find out how streamer fishing changed the game for him. Learn tips and tricks from the Umpqua signature Dragon tier himself as John takes us through the art of swinging for brown trout in Norway.

Norway Fly Fishing with John Bond. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

norway fly fishing
photo via: https://www.scientificanglers.com/portfolio/john-bond/

Norway Fly Fishing Show Notes with John Bond

3:47 – John’s interest in fly fishing began early, having spent countless weekends traveling to fishing sites throughout the East Coast with his family.

05:20 – John worked as a butcher and part-time fly fishing guide in Vermont, but his ultimate goal was to move to Montana, a place his parents often talked about.

06:42 – He sold an old rod on Craigslist and made friends with the buyer’s two sons, who offered him an apartment in Bozeman. 

09:45 – In 2010, during his first streamer fishing trip in Missouri, John was amazed by how fish reacted to his Sculpzilla fly, and this experience changed the fly fishing game for him.

 

11:25 – Three months after moving to Montana, he invested $5,000 in a boat worth more than his Jeep Cherokee.

14:33 –  In 2013, he caught a 28-inch female brown trout on the Yellowstone River, and the experience changed his fishing game.

15:17 – John is an Umpqua signature tier for the Dragon, previously known as the Beefcake.

17:24 – We delve into John’s fly fishing techniques and how he applies them to streamer and nymph fishing. He uses a Scientific Angler Sink Tip fly line

sonar titan sink tip

22:00 – John breaks down the differences between the brown trouts in Montana versus the browns in Norway.  

23:41 – A spin fisherman caught a 20-pound brown trout six years ago. John and his friend Christopher got a 25-inch brown on his third day in Norway.

25:05 – John talked about the Yellowstone Angler and James Anderson and how he opened the door to his guiding life back in Montana. 

26:05 – John went to Norway with his wife in 2017. They visited Rena Fiskecamp in Norway, where the owners mentioned the camp might be up for sale, and John jokingly suggested he would buy it and move to Norway, despite having no plans to leave Montana then.

Norway Fly Fishing
Photo via https://www.facebook.com/RenaFiskecamp

27:32 – In 2019, John and his wife decided to move to Norway after she became pregnant with their second child.

30:37 – John and his friends went salmon fishing on the Orkla River in Norway, well-known for its fantastic Atlantic salmon fishing. After that, he went to Matt Haye’s Winsnes Fly Fishing Lodge, where he had a brush with death.

35:39 – John tells us more about the Rena Fish Camp. The Rena River is one of the only rivers open to the public by buying a fishing license.

40:08 – We hear how John moved his family, gears, brand new Adipose drift boat, and even his dog from Montana to Norway during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Norway Fly Fishing
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/john__bond

46:44 – John has been an ambassador with G. Loomis for several years through Yellowstone Angler. He is also an advisor with the Scientific Angler.

48:15 – We get a picture of life in Norway and the differences from life in the U.S.
John Bond

58:24 – John talks more about his family’s lodge and his guiding business on the Rena River. In summer, they have the midnight sun, and people can fish all night during those days.    

Norway Fly Fishing
Photo via https://www.facebook.com/RenaFiskecamp

1:03:00 – Norwegians traditionally have a culture of catching and keeping fish. The practice of catch and release has been gaining popularity over the last 10 to 15 years.

1:04:43 – We hear the best time to visit their fish camp. People come from all over the world to catch Arctic Norwegian grayling. 

1:13:45 – John tells how he nearly died while salmon fishing using his brand new G. Loomis Asquith on the Gaula River.

Photo via https://tellurideangler.com/products/asq-490-4/

1:17:25 – John ties a variety of flies. Wade Fellen had some luck fishing with the Dragon. 

1:17:25 – John ties a variety of flies. Wade Fellen of the Big Hole Lodge had some luck fishing with the Dragon. We also did another episode about Norway with Erlend Nilssen.

 


You can connect with John via Facebook at Rena Fiskecamp.

Instagram at @rena_fish_camp

Visit their website at Renafishcamp.com.


Norway Fly Fishing Videos Noted in the Show

 

Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 286 – Fly Fishing Norway with Erlend Vivelid Nilssen – Euro Nymphing

Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


 


norway fly fishing
photo via: https://fishspot.no/en/guide/john-bond/

Norway Fly Fishing Conclusion with John Bond

That was John Bond chasing his fly fishing dream from Montana to Norway amid COVID. We picked up some tips on streamer fishing and how he swings for brown trout. We’re glad we could check in with John and get a feel for his program. It makes us want to take the fastest trip to Norway to try out all the fantastic techniques he shared. Are you also excited to hit the waters of Norway soon? Hope to catch you there! 

 

WFS 418 – Fly Fishing Kodiak with Adam Cuthriell – Steelhead, Karluk River, Fishhound Expeditions

fishhound expeditions

Adam Cutthriel is back on the podcast to take us into one of the great steelhead rivers around the world. We discover how he was able to put together one of the only programs in this part of Alaska, in Kodiak. We find out how and why you might want to book a spot with Adam and the FishHound crew. And we also hear about their recent trip to Honduras with Cam, one of his main Guides.

Every time I get Adam on the show, it’s always a good time, good laughs so I’m excited to share this one with you. Here we go.

Fly Fishing Kodiak with Adam Cuthriell. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

fishhound expeditions

Show Notes with Adam Cuthriell

02:20 – We did an episode with David Gravette, a professional skateboarder in episode 407. He told us his story of breaking almost every bone in his body from skating.

06:00 – Adam tells us what the trip looks like starting day 1.

07:20 – Adam tells the story of how they we able to set up a lodge in Kodiak with the help of his friend’s wife who happens to be the President of the Kodiak Native Corporation. He noted Girdwood Brewing Company which his friend started. They make great beer.

12:00 – Steelhead holds a special place in their hearts.

fishhound expeditions

13:20 – They had a new record set this year of catching 38 steelheads in one day.

16:45 – For the last 2 years, it did not matter which flies you use. Everything worked.

22:40 – Bears are everywhere in Kodiak.

fishhound expeditions

26:30 – Trips are sold out this year but if you want to book ahead of time, you can head over to FishHound.com to check in with Adam and see what they have coming next.

26:59 – The Situk is a phenomenal river. Adam talks about why it’s a great fishery.

31:50 – We had Will Donnelly from FishHound Expeditions too in episode 401.

32:20 – They have 10 full-time guides.

fishhound expeditions

34:00 – Adam tells us about their trip to Honduras.

39:45 – John McMillan was here in episode 117. 

40:57 – Hobo Spey is Adam’s top fly. For rod, he uses 12-foot 7-wt.

Photo courtesy of SteelheadersJournal.com

42:00 – Adam is going to Bolivia for Golden Dorados in June.


You can find FishHound Expeditions on Instagram @fishhound_expeditions

Visit FishHoundExpeditions.com

fishhound expeditions


Videos Noted in the Show


Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 401 – Our Alaska Fly Fishing Guide with Will Donnelly – FishHound Expeditions, Willie Nelson


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


Littoral Zone #2 with Phil Rowley and Brian Chan – Stillwater Fly Fishing Tips and Tricks

brian chan and phil rowley

Today we’re with the two Stillwater Legends, Phil Rowley and Brian Chan as we dive deep into the Stillwater world! We discover a handful of tips and tricks that we can apply today to up our Stillwater game. We break down the lifecycle and the different hatches of chironomids and find out how to use this knowledge to your advantage in catching big fish.

Phil and Brian are good friends and have fished together for many years. They’ve written a few books on Stillwater fly fishing, recorded DVDs, and taught schools and seminars. They are dedicated to helping us achieve more success and enjoyment on the water.


Stillwater Fly Fishing with Phil Rowley and Brian Chan. Hit play below!

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

brian chan and phil rowley

Show Notes with Phil Rowley and Brian Chan

07:45 – Brian talks about chironomid hatches and species.

10:15 – Brian talks about the life cycle of a chironomid.

brian chan and phil rowley

16:15 – Trout like to feed on the dull pupa.

19:20 – Brian is a Fisheries Biologist.

34:45 – A depth finder and a fish finder are very useful tools to have on a Stillwater fishing trip.

brian chan and phil rowley

39:55 – Phil and Brian are going to have an online chironomid course. Stay tuned for that one!


You can find Brian on Instagram @brianchanflyfishing

Visit our website:

StillwaterFlyFishingStore.com

FlyCraftAngling.com


Videos Noted in the Show


Related Podcast Episodes

Littoral Zone #1 with Phil Rowley – Finding Fish on Stillwaters, Fly Fishing Tips and Tricks

WFS 243 – Brian Chan on Fly Fishing Trout Lakes – Chironomids, Kamloops, Stillwater


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


WFS 416 – Kootenai River Fly Fishing with Dave Blackburn – Montana, Bull Trout, Bluegrass

kootenai river

Dave Blackburn takes us on a journey through the Kootenai River in Montana. Discover the rich history of Kootenai, learn the secrets of when to fish for the best catch, and explore the various fishing techniques you can use there. Dave also shares some hilarious anecdotes, such as teaching Hollywood star Richard Dreyfuss how to cast on the set of Always.

Find out how you can book a guided trip with him. And don’t miss out on the grand finale where Dave delivers a fantastic banjo performance to complete our Kootenai experience.


Kootenai River with Dave Blackburn. Hit play below!

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Find the show:  iTunes | Stitcher | Overcast

Subscribe on Android

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Google Podcasts

Subscribe via RSS

(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

kootenai river

Kootenai River Show Notes with Dave Blackburn

5:24 – Dave tells the story of how he got into fly fishing. His teacher in the sixth grade taught fly tying classes. He started tying flies at age nine.

6:10 – He went to West Virginia University and participated in a placement program for foresters.  He was inspired to work in the Bighorn National Forest after seeing the movie Jeremiah Johnson, which depicted the Rocky Mountains.

Photo via: https://www.amazon.com/Jeremiah-Johnson-Robert-Redford/dp/B000W1SZBS/

6:40 – Dave was a backcountry ranger in the Cloud Peak primitive area and met his wife there. They visited his wife’s family in Libby, Montana, where he discovered the Kootenai River.

7:54 – He talks about the first time he went fly fishing for native rainbows in the Kootenai River. He used a Mustad 94833.

10:23 – He describes the Kootenai River. He also talks about the impoundment of Libby Dam in 1974, which created a 90-mile lake and became home to various species of fish, including Kokanee salmon, rainbows, and cutthroats.

kootenai river
Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/kootenaiangler/

13:38 – I ask him about the best months to fish at the Kootenai River. He talks about the flows of the river mimicking a natural hydrograph due to the endangered status of the white sturgeon.

15:18 – He met with the technical management team along with the Fish, Wildlife & Parks and agreed to stop power peaking to prevent the sturgeon from becoming endangered.

16:15 – The green drakes have come back since the power peaking stopped. Green drakes can be seen around the second or third week of July.

Photo via: https://www.missoulianangler.com/green-drake/

17:46 – Dave shares a brief history of Kootenai and what the area is known for. The name Kootenai originated from French trappers to refer to the deer robes that the Kootenay Indians would tan.

19:34 – Libby is home to a historical museum. There is also the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness which is a grizzly bear habitat.

21:15 – He talks about the seasonal progression of hatches on the river. They have this thing they call a happy hour hatch.

22:58 – He discusses the various ways of fishing on the river, including float fishing, walk-wading, swing, and Euro nymphing. Dry fly fishing is the most popular way to fish at Kootenai River.

26:53 – He talks about fish size at Kootenai River. He mentions the 29-pound rainbow caught at the Kootenai River.

30:24 – The films River Wild and The Revenant were shot in Kootenai falls.

kootenai river
Photo via: https://www.theinertia.com/mountain/behind-the-river-safety-that-went-into-filming-the-revenant/

30:43 – He met Steven Spielberg when the film Always was shot in the Kootenai National Forest and around Libby in the 1980s. He had an opportunity to teach Richard Dreyfuss how to cast on the set and also had lunch with Holly Hunter and Dreyfuss.

kootenai river
Photo via: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096794/

33:03 – He talks about their 30-inch club and the incidental catches on bull trout. The biggest bull trout they’ve ever taken was about 41-inch bull trout, probably about 25 pounds.

kootenai river
Photo via: http://www.libbymt.com/news/2005/07/KootenaiRiverBullTro.htm

35:31 – He discusses native fish management. The Redband rainbows currently do not have Endangered Species Act (ESA) protection, unlike the bull trout and white sturgeon.

38:22 – He talks about fishing trips at Kootenai. He says that a 3-day trip would be ideal when visiting Kootenai. Kootenai is the second largest river in the state.

42:35 – He talks about their lodging at Kootenai Angler and that time when they built their first rental cabin in ’92 under $15,000.

kootenai river
Their first rental unit, the log home called the Osprey House. (Photo via: https://goflyfishmontana.com/lodging/)

43:25 – He shares that time when Meryl Streep wanted to stay in their cabin during their filming of The River Wild.

kootenai river
Photo via: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/stills-from-the-movie-the-river-wild-227308/the-river-wild-23-171610/

44:15 – Now they have a total of four cabins and an onsite restaurant that is open to the public.

kootenai river
Photo via: https://www.facebook.com/TheRiverBendRestaurant/

45:20 – He describes what their busy summer looks like in the cabin and the drift trips they do. The floatable section of the Kootenai with the exception of the falls is 50 miles.

49:03 – Kootenai River is less famous than the Madison River or Big Horn. The traffic is unlike in other areas, and Dave thinks that is Kootenai’s saving grace.

50:55 – There are a lot of places where people can camp along the river.

52:51 – He talks about the Kootenai Falls.

55:01 – Dave runs a full-service package for those who plan to visit Kootenai.

56:02 – He talks about the possibility of hooking big-sized rainbows. Streamer fishing is the most effective way to catch big rainbows. His head guide, Joe, caught a 32-inch rainbow on a hopper dropper rig.

58:04 – Jeff Currier was up in Kootenai fishing with him a while back. They used the SA stillwater line. Jeff caught a 9-pound rainbow using a Scientific Angler Stillwater camo. We had him in our first Traveled series episode.

Photo via: https://www.scientificanglers.com/product/sonar-stillwater-clear-camo/

58:50 – He applied Jeff’s technique when he went to Iceland.  

1:00:15 – They provide gear and flies in their guided trips. He’s a Winston Pro Staff, so he carries Winston rods in the boat. For those who want to use their own gear, he gives tips on what gear to bring.

1:01:52 – They also offer last-minute guided trips.

1:02:31 – Their peak season is from August to early September.

1:04:38 – He talks about what the Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ bull trout regulations.

kootenai river
Photo via: https://goflyfishmontana.com/photo-gallery/

1:07:47 – I mention our previous episode with Derek Bird of Fly Fusion Magazine.

1:09:06 – Dave mentions the possibility of catching a Westslope cutthroat trout.

Photo via: https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/westslope-cutthroat-trout.htm

1:11:07 – It’s time for the two-minute drill. I ask Dave for some online resources where people could dig in more about Kootenai. Dave recommends the Libby Heritage Museum and the Libby Chamber of Commerce.

1:11:31 – He also recommends Sources of the River for those who want to dig deeper into history.

Photo via: https://www.amazon.com/Sources-River-2nd-Tracking-Thompson/dp/1570615225/

1:11:47 – Dave was a regional director of Montana Trout Unlimited and the Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana.

1:12:29 – He tells us about that time when he took American author John Gierach up on the Elk River in the late ‘80s. He also went fishing again with John two years ago in the Kootenai.

Photo via: https://peninsulapress.com/2020/04/29/for-author-john-gierach-the-best-fishing-stories-arent-really-about-fishing/

1:13:50 – He talks about the Sheldon Mountain Boys and gives us a fantastic banjo performance to cap off today’s podcast.

Sheldon Mountain Boys! #bluegrass #banjo #montana #northwestmontana (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/kootenaiangler/)

1:14:20 – I mention our episode with Brandon Molzahn who also plays the banjo.

1:16:40 – He also plays with the band called Boulder Creek.

kootenai river
Boulder Creek Bluegrass live at @cabinetmountainbrewing 5-8. Come on down!! (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/kootenaiangler/)

You can find Dave on Instagram @KootenaiAngler.

Facebook at Dave Blackburn’s Kootenai Angler

YouTube @KootenaiAngler

Visit their website at GoFlyFishMontana.com.

kootenai river


Related Podcast Episodes

Traveled #1: Jeff Currier on Eastern Idaho Fly Fishing – Henry’s Fork, S. Fk Snake, and Others

 

WFS 387 – Fly Fishing British Columbia with Derek Bird – Fly Fusion Magazine, Bull Trout, Cutthroat

 

WFS 317 – Fly Tying Patterns for Stillwater with Brandon Molzahn – Togens Fly Shop


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


 


kootenai river

Kootenai River Conclusion with Dave Blackburn

We had such a great time talking with Dave Blackburn of Kootenai Angler. He gave us an in-depth look at the wonderful world of fly fishing on the Kootenai River. His banjo performance was top-notch, and it was a great way to end the show.

We hope that this episode inspires you to explore the great outdoors and visit their cabin in Montana soon. Thank you for tuning in!

WFS 415 – Mavrk Fly Fishing with Jeff Sasaki – Euro Nymphing, Stinger Reel, Truckee River

mavrk fly fishing

Jeff Sasaki, Designer of Founder of Mavrk Fly Fishing, walks us through his euro nymphing setup today and the physics behind the famous Stinger Micro Reel. We get a bunch of casting tips and talk about what it’s like to fish the Truckee River in California.

We discover how he transitioned from owning a successful cellphone case company to making the lightest fly reel in the world. Jeff also tells us how he fishes dry flies with a euro nymphing rig. Wait… WHAT??? Does that actually work? Listen to this episode to find out!


Mavrk Fly Fishing with Jeff Sasaki. Hit play below!

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Find the show:  iTunes | Stitcher | Overcast

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

 

Sponsors and Podcast Updates

 

mavrk fly fishing

Show Notes with Jeff Sasaki

04:40 – Casting Tip: You got to get all the slack out of your line even if that means starting out with short casts.

07:00 – We noted the Stinger Micro Reel which is designed specifically for euro nymphing tight line techniques. It weighs about 1.3 ounces.

mavrk fly fishing

16:10 – Jeff spent most of his career as a product designer. He started out with transportation design. He became the first Industrial Designer at Fox Racing.

21:00 – Jeff designed an aluminum iPhone case so his dog wouldn’t chew on his phone. He started the company, Element Case and later sold it.

30:00 – He tells the story of how biologists repopulated the Bonneville cutthroat in Idaho and later found them at Pilot Peak in Nevada.

38:30 – Jeff describes how he casts dry flies with a euro nymph rig.

mavrk fly fishing

41:45 – Tip: If you want more control of your flies, go with the heavier leaders – 20 to 15 pound. 15 to 12 is a good all around.

58:48 – The Stinger doesn’t work with any other kind of fishing except for euro nymphing.

mavrk fly fishing

1:07:45 – Jeff mentioned James Park from Red Truck. He was on the podcast in episode 246.


You can find Mavrk on Instagram @mavrkflyfishing

Visit their website at MavrkUSA.com

mavrk fly fishing


Videos Noted in the Show


Related Podcast Episodes

WFS 353 – Fly Fishing Spring Creeks with Tom Starmack – The Driftless, Top Euro Nymphs


Read the Full Podcast Transcript Below


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