(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Tim Rajeff from Echo Fly Rod
(0:00:05) – Fly Casting Fundamentals and Techniques Tim’s journey in fly fishing, influenced by his brother and practice, and the importance of dedication in enhancing performance on the water.
(0:14:10) – Mastering the Perfect Cast Nature’s nuances in fly casting with different rods, emphasizing acceleration, casting arc, straight-line path, and stopping.
(0:24:30) – Fly Casting Techniques and Fundamentals Nature’s fundamentals of fly casting, stroke length, 10 to 2 rule, sidearm casts, double haul, and hands-on practice lead to mastery.
(0:31:15) – The Art of Double Haul Casting Nature’s double haul increases line speed and distance, utilizing the rod’s lever and spring action for efficient casting.
(0:42:53) – Echo Fly Rod Company Evolution Echo brand’s origins, journey from fishing lodges to distribution, expertise gained, iconic logo, and reputation for durable rods at competitive prices.
(0:46:09) – Understanding Fly Rod Technology and Pricing Evolution and technology of fly fishing rods, Loomis’ use of carbon fiber, Echo’s goal of affordability, and complexities of manufacturing.
(0:57:03) – Understanding Fly Rod Action and Power Nature’s action and power in fly fishing rods, including fast, medium, and slow action, rod tips, and purchasing considerations.
(1:06:04) – Fly Fishing and the Outdoors Nature’s timeless allure of fly fishing in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and its connection to childhood wonder and discovery.
(1:11:47) – Fly Casting Techniques and Tips Nature’s infectious enthusiasm for fly fishing, the thrill of catching various fish species, and practical advice for improving casting techniques.
(1:18:04) – Improving Fly Fishing Skills Through Coaching Nature’s transformative power through minor adjustments in activities, joy in helping others, gratitude for listeners, and future fishing adventures with Tim.
In this episode with Tim Rajeff, we dove into the heart and soul of fly fishing and fly casting—from Tim’s humble beginnings to the birth of Echo Fly Rod Company.
Ready to experience the thrill of sight fishing for redfish? Would you like to visit one of the most natural and diverse barrier islands in the world?
We’ve got the Bay Flats Lodge crew on the podcast to share some tips on sight fishing for redfish and what makes this part of the Texas coast so special.
Today you will hear from six of the most passionate guides in Texas and the tips they use to catch redfish by sight. You’ll find out how to cast in the wind and why you need to practice your backcast cast.
Show Notes with Bay Flats Lodge Crew on Sight Fishing For Redfish. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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Episode Chapters with Bay Flats Lodge Crew on Sight Fishing For Redfish
1:43 – The Bay Flats Lodge specializes in boutique fly fishing experiences, particularly in the unique landscape of the Texas coast, offering access to vast marshlands, creeks, and backcountry areas.
The Guides of Bay Flats Lodge
Capt. Dylan Murley
5:23 – Dylan is from Bastrop, Texas. His journey into guiding was initially sparked by fishing trips with family and friends along the Texas coast.
Transitioning to guiding in South Padre and eventually joining the team in Sea Drift, Dylan emphasizes the diverse and captivating nature of the fishery in this area.
Tip: Dylan emphasizes the importance of polarized sunglasses for spotting fish and advises beginners to focus on looking through the water rather than just at the surface.
Capt. Matt Lough
7:55 – Matt, a native Texan from East Texas, discovered fly fishing at a young age and has been pursuing his passion ever since.
While he initially focused on trout fishing, he transitioned to guiding for redfish about three months ago and has found a deep love for sight fishing.
“I love trout fishing, but once I discovered the redfish game, it’s just something I never want to leave.”
Capt. Tyler Brown
9:20 – Tyler is originally from Kerrville, Texas, where he grew up fishing in the headwaters of the Guadalupe River.
Despite not yet catching a redfish in the Guadalupe River, he expresses interest in doing so, considering it a future goal.
Capt. Dane Scott
10:19 – Dane is originally from Pueblo, Colorado, where he grew up fishing in western Colorado due to his grandfather owning a fly shop.
Six years ago, he made his way to the coast and immediately fell in love with fishing for redfish, eventually becoming a guide in the area for the past four years.
Capt. Mike Gaglianese
11:30 – Mike is originally from upstate New York, specifically Utica, and later moved to Gunnison, Colorado, where he met Dane. They became roommates and began guiding together.
Now in their fourth year on the coast, Mike shares his love for coastal living, enjoying the seasonal split between the coast and the mountains.
Fly Fishing at Bay Flats Lodge
12:38 – Chris says that the Bay Flats Lodge offers fly fishing opportunities year-round, with no closed season. The unique location, driven by tides and winds, ensures consistent fishing opportunities regardless of the season, with diverse areas protected by mangroves and creeks.
14:40 – Tyler explains that while they primarily catch slot-sized redfish ranging from 20 to 28 inches, occasionally they encounter larger fish over 30 inches.
18:48 – One crucial tip Dane offers is to understand the directions given by the guide and to be mindful of the length of the fly rod when estimating distances. Additionally, he recommends using an 8 weight rod for optimal performance in their fishing conditions.
22:57 – Dylan and Dane discuss the influence of wind on their fishing conditions. While calm periods can be conducive to fishing, excessively glassy water can make fish skittish. They emphasize the importance of adapting to varying wind conditions.
31:38 – Chris discusses the importance of immediate line retrieval upon casting to maintain tension and minimize slack.
He notes that sight fishing allows anglers to observe most takes, particularly in clear water, but acknowledges Dane’s preference for fishing in dirtier water where redfish use camouflage to approach their prey unnoticed.
Choosing the Right Fly for Redfish
37:18 – The crew notes the importance of fly selection based on the fishing conditions, including depth, bottom structure, and the behavior of the fish on a particular day. While hungry redfish may take almost any fly, weight, pattern, and color nuances become crucial considerations.
40:18 – Dane suggests using a bead chain instead of dumbbell eyes. He also likes a mix of natural and synthetic materials in fly tying. He prefers feather flies for their slower sink rate and resistance to water saturation.
Sight Fishing For Redfish: Casting Tips
45:00 – When casting into strong winds, double hauling and maintaining line speed are crucial. Practice short, accurate shots and be adaptable with rod angles to adjust to wind direction. Additionally, consider utilizing roll casting techniques for effective casting in challenging conditions.
47:00 – Mastering the back cast can be crucial, especially for casting off to the right side of the boat quickly without spooking fish. It’s important to fish the fly, not the fly line, and to practice a slow pickup to avoid spooking fish when recasting.
Ryan Johnston is here from Cast Hope to share the story of how Cast Hope is helping kids around the country. He also gets into steelhead fishing and his passion there.
Show Notes with Ryan Johnston on Cast Hope. Hit play below! 👇🏻
Uncover the secrets of thriving bay ecosystems and the art of fishing with our insightful guest, Allan Berger, Chair at San Antonio Bay Partnership Inc. and passionate advocate for the conservation of San Antonio Bay.
Show Notes with Allan Berger – San Antonio Bay. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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Episode Chapters – San Antonio Bay
(0:00:05) – Protecting the San Antonio Bay Nature’s beauty and ecological significance in San Antonio Bay, including marshlands, redfish and trout habitats, and Bay Flats Lodge’s fishing operations.
(0:13:10) – Preserving the Bay and Redfish Nature’s life cycle of redfish in the Gulf, spawning in passes and maturing in bays, faces challenges but can be conserved through partnerships.
(0:20:25) – Conservation Challenges in Natural Bay Area Nature’s beauty and conservation challenges in Morse Bay, responsible enjoyment, redfish populations, Hurricane Harvey’s impact, and seasonal vigilance.
(0:32:23) – Cleaning Up Crab Traps, Promoting Conservation Win a trip to Bay Place Lodge and help clean up crab traps to preserve marine life.
(0:43:16) – Bay Systems and Anti-Litter Report Card Nature’s health in San Antonio Bay was assessed in a 2023 report card, highlighting the impact of development and the need for sustainable management.
(0:54:54) – The Greatness of the Mid-Texas Coast The mid-Texas coast is popular for fishing and birding, with a growing second home market and a focus on preserving local bays and redfish.
(1:01:44) – Fishing Tips and Kayak Strategies Nature’s tips for successful redfish catching, appreciation for baseball, and challenges of kayak fishing.
(1:07:18) – Benefits of Paddling and Conservation Work Nature’s joys of kayaking for fishing and birdwatching, encountering wildlife, saving time and effort, exercise, sabpartnership.org, and gratitude for guest’s insights.
As we wrap up, we share a trove of tips for kayak anglers and celebrate the simple joys of paddling through these waters, whether you’re after the thrill of the catch or the peace of birdwatching.
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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The thread we follow takes us from the riveting culture of fishermen with their Tacoma trucks to the wild, untamed beauty of Northern BC where skiing down pristine slopes can end with casting lines into steelhead-rich waters.
Episode Chapters
(0:00:01) – Reading the Landscape Nature’s impact on outdoor activities like skiing and steelhead fishing, genetic and behavioral differences in steelhead, and thrilling experiences on the Skeena.
(0:06:13) – Winter Steelheading Nature’s connection to fish in Skeena River, challenges of fishing in big water, understanding fish behavior, staying motivated in winter, proper layering, and camaraderie in fishing.
(0:14:21) – The Steelhead Fishing Experience Nature’s comfort in outdoor activities, emotional aspects of fishing, camaraderie around campfires, and the allure of challenges in fishing.
(0:22:16) – The Impact of Fishing and Skateboarding Nature’s transformative power in fishing, skateboarding, and skiing, and its appeal for all ages and as a safe alternative for risk-taking.
(0:30:12) – The Beauty of Fishing and Skiing Nature’s role in outdoor activities, community, and emotional connection, specifically in skiing, fishing, and rock climbing.
(0:40:13) – Discussion on Fishing and Multi-Sport Adventures Nature’s influence on fishermen driving Toyota Tacomas, revealing fishing spots, and combining activities like skiing and fishing.
(0:48:42) – Skiing and Ski Movie Discussions Nature’s blend of skiing and fishing in Northern BC, Shames co-op resort, ski movies, and “Sacred Grounds” series.
(1:00:45) – Impact of Talent in Filmmaking, Fishing Skilled professionals enhance film quality in niche areas like ski and fishing filmmaking, while camaraderie and a relaxed approach are important in fishing.
Trough their adventures, we’re reminded of the beauty in persistence, the warmth of friendships formed in the coldest waters, and the eternal allure of the wild that beckons the adventurous soul to keep exploring.
Today Robert Chiasson gives us his biggest tips and tactics on finding and catching Atlantic salmon on a dry fly. He also shares a story on what it felt like to land and see this 48-inch Atlantic salmon caught on the surface with a bomber.
Robert is the best person you can find if you want to fish the Margaree River and the waters of Nova Scotia and Cape Breton. You’re going to find out how to dead drift a fly, how to fish a seam, how to find those fish in that seam with a dry, why the reach cast is a great cast to know, and the best hook for Atlantic salmon.
Show Notes with Robert Chiasson on Atlantic Salmon. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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Episode Chapters with Robert Chiasson on Atlantic Salmon
1:20 – Robert grew up learning to salmon fish on the Chéticamp River and eventually became a guide there. He has been guiding regularly since 1992.
2:33 – The Margaree has the largest run of Atlantic Salmon in Cape Breton. He says that it’s a very friendly and relaxed river to fish in. He tells more about the Margaree for those who are planning a fly fishing trip there.
7:42 – They fish from June to the end of October. In the first couple of weeks of June, they mostly fish wet flies. By mid to late June, they’re heavy into the dry fly season. About 80% of his fly choices throughout the summer are dry flies.
10:30 – In the summer, he suggests using a one-handed rod because dries are better presented with single-handed rods. He also likes switch rods. In the fall, he prefers the larger and longer spey rods.
16:10 – We dig deeper into his recommended setup for catching salmon in his area. He also gives an important note on salmon fishing.
19:28 – He says that when you get into the river, the first thing to look at is the configuration of the flow, so look for the fastest-moving water. And then on the edge of the fast-moving water is the seam. That’s where you’ll find fish.
21:30 – Robert doesn’t cast his dry flies upstream a lot because he likes to lead with the fly. He tells more about his cast presentation for Atlantic salmon.
“Another fun morning in paradise…a wee grilse on a dry, what a great way to start the day!” (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/dryflysalmon)
24:06 – He describes to us what a good day fishing in the Margaree River looks like. He says that one a day is a good day.
30:58 – He tells us about the biggest salmon he has seen which he grabbed the tail with two hands.
36:30 – We dig into reels, particularly the click and pawl versus a drag reel in catching Atlantic salmon.
42:05 – He describes how he builds a leader. Straight eight is what they fished growing up.
43:40 – He tells us how different is fishing in Labrador versus in the Margaree.
Robert and his friends from LOOP tackle and Atlantic Rivers Outfitting Company in Labrador (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/dryflysalmon)
49:32 – He uses the Daiichi 2110 down eye for the hooks, which is his go-to hook for dry flies.
Conclusion with Robert Chiasson on Atlantic Salmon
Wrapping up our chat with Robert, we got the inside scoop on fly fishing for Atlantic salmon. His stories, tips, and the vibe he brings to fishing have us all itching to hit the rivers. It’s not just about the catch; it’s about loving the game and the places it takes us. Catch you on the river, folks!
Bob Elliott, Chair at Northwest Fly Tyer and Fly Fishing Expo, shares his fly fishing journey from learning on his own to becoming a lead instructor and having a significant role in the fly fishing community.
Show Notes with Bob Elliott – Fly Fishing Expo. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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Episode Chapters – Fly Fishing Expo
(0:00:05) – Fly Fishing Clubs and Northwest Expo Northwest Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo, first memories of fly fishing, self-taught, lead instructor, Lin Betten Family Fly Fishers club, collaboration with certified instructors.
(0:14:22) – Bugs and Bamboo Local fly shops collaborate with community, COVID impact on event attendance, Tenkara fishing
(0:28:52) – Northwest Fly Show and Workshops Exciting fly fishing show with 200 fly tyers, workshops, family-friendly activities, and a social atmosphere with local shops and craft breweries.
(0:43:39) – Event Details and Reasons to Attend Team dynamics, ideal traits, contributions of members, innovative attractions, financial challenges, fundraising, and grants for fly fishing events.
(0:54:50) – Fly Fishing Event and Sponsorship Opportunities New sponsors, community engagement, National FFI Board, unique PNW fly fishing culture, event website for more information.
As we wrap up our journey through the world of fly fishing, it’s clear that this community is more than just a collection of anglers—it’s a family bound by a shared love for the sport. The Northwest Fly Tyer and Fly Fishing Expo, especially in 2024, emerges as a shining beacon of this camaraderie and passion.
Have you ever struggled to fish a dry fly? Today we have Jason Randall back on to break down dry fly fishing, the perfect dry dropper leader setup, and how to fish it.
Jason shares three invaluable tips, from his unique leader rigging with a tippet ring to the nuanced technique of twitching your fly. We’ll also talk about the common pitfalls in energy transfer during casting.
Tune in as we delve into the details, including the best knots for leaders, and discover the upcoming Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival.
Show Notes with Jason Randall on Dry Fly Fishing Mastery. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
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Episode Chapters with Jason Randall on Dry Fly Fishing Mastery
02:59 – Since our episode with Jason in April 2019, Jason has been actively involved in the fly fishing scene. He released his new book “Nymph Masters: Fly-Fishing Secrets from Expert Anglers.”
After the release of his book, he focused on refining dry fly techniques and dedicated the past three years to developing leaders that allow the best drag-free drift.
Photo via https://www.amazon.com/Nymph-Masters-Fly-Fishing-Secrets-Anglers/dp/0811716791
7:33 – An efficient leader is important for achieving the perfect dead drift in dry fly fishing. Using a well-designed, energy-efficient leader can help maintain better control, minimize tangles, and achieve an elegant cast.
11:05 – Jason talks about choosing the right casting angle and the effectiveness of downstream presentations for managing challenging currents and maximizing the drift.
13:28 – Jason shares techniques for animating dry flies. He explains the rigging adjustments and movements that make a standard cast into a compelling lure for trout.
Dry Fly Fishing the Driftless Area
16:06 – We discuss the unique charm and technical challenges of the Driftless Area. We explore the diverse hatches and seasons that make the area a dynamic and rewarding destination for anglers.
19:00 – Jason describes his innovative dry fly leader. He uses a three or four-weight rod for spring creeks, and he refers to the upper 10 feet of his leader as the “standing section.”
The wear section, experiencing more frequent changes, is adjusted daily based on fly changes and conditions. He notes its collaborative development with fellow anglers Devin Olsen, Ed Engle, and AK Best.
37:06 – It is important to mend early and frequently, especially on larger bodies of water. He advises breaking surface tension by snapping the line in a spiral fashion to prevent unwanted sounds and disturbance to the fly.
55:00 – We talk about the Texas Fly Fishing and Brew Festival. His favorite beverage is the Moscow Mule. Jason enjoys connecting with fellow anglers and learning from them at the shows.
1:02:00 – Three key takeaways for dry dropper fishing:
Practice and hone your casts and techniques at home.
Approach river outings with a focus on improvement and learning rather than just catching fish.
Conclusion with Jason Randall on Dry Fly Fishing Mastery
We’ve journeyed through the intricacies of dry fly fishing with the wonderful Jason Randall. Now, armed with Jason’s tips and a newfound understanding, go out there, cast with confidence, and let the river unfold its stories for you. Happy fishing!
As he grasped his grandfather’s old fly rod, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of legacy in his hands. That’s the moment our guest, Zach Pope, credits for sparking a lifelong love affair with fly fishing—a passion that would eventually lead to the creation of the TroutRoutes app.
Show Notes with Zach Pope – TroutRoutes. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters – TroutRoutes
(0:00:05) – Fly Fishing and TroutRoutes App Discovering a grandparent’s fly rod leads to a passion for trout fishing and the creation of TroutRoutes app.
(0:10:41) – Mapping Trout Routes and Public Access TroutRoutes is a digital mapping tool for anglers, providing access to information for stocked and wild trout streams.
(0:17:40) – TroutRoutes’ Features TroutRoutes app promotes exploration, private notes, and navigability laws to enhance fishing experience.
(0:21:44) – Lessons in Product Development and Expansion Nature’s lessons from a startup’s early decisions and customer feedback, including adapting to regional fishing experiences and integrating local regulations into the app.
(0:32:47) – Trout Routes Plan TroutRoutes app’s value and pricing, trout lake layer, historical fishing methods, and technology’s impact on outdoor resources.
(0:39:29) – Conservation and Nonprofit Commitment Fly fishing app donates to conservation, promotes accessibility and public land access, and engages with the community through partnerships and expos.
(0:49:10) – Unique Fishing Area Exploration Nature’s unique fly fishing opportunities in the Driftless Area, TroutRoutes app, upcoming trip with local expert Jerry.
Through our conversation, we’ve journeyed alongside Zach, exploring the evolution of this innovative tool that guides anglers to their ideal catch while navigating legal waters.
Introduction Embark on a journey to the heart of Alaska, where the rivers hold secrets only the most dedicated anglers dare to uncover. This short blog post summary offers you insights into the art and soul of catching Chinook – the mightiest of salmon, in the wild waters of the North.
You can also listen to the full podcast in about 10 minutes by pressing play below. This blog post is based on a podcast we did with one of the biggest and OG’s of the swing game, George Cook. You can listen to this episode in podcast 406 here.
Click below to listen to the Podcast on Swinging for Chinook
Choosing the right gear is not just a matter of preference, but a crucial decision that can make or break your fishing expedition.
For targeting Chinook in Alaska’s waters, opting for a robust and versatile spey rod is crucial. A 13 to 15-foot spey rod with a 9 or 10 weight rating is ideal, providing the necessary backbone for long, powerful casts and the strength to handle the force of a Chinook.
Match it with a durable reel that can hold a good amount of backing and a strong drag system to endure the long runs of these mighty fish. The choice of line is pivotal; a Skagit line with various sink tips allows you to adjust to different water depths and speeds.
Understanding Chinook Behavior in Alaskan Rivers
Chinook salmon are not just another fish; they are the masters of their domain.
Chinook salmon, especially during their river migration, can be aggressive and territorial. This behavior makes them susceptible to a well-presented swung fly. They are often provoked by the movement and intrusion into their territory, prompting a strike.
When swinging a fly, the movement and silhouette of the fly, mimicking a fleeing or distressed smaller fish, taps into the Chinook’s predatory instincts. Timing the swing to pass through likely holding spots, like deep pools or slow-moving currents, increases the chance of a catch.
The Art of the Swing in Fly Fishing
The swing is not just a technique; it’s a form of art. Mastering the swing means understanding the rhythm of the water, the whisper of the line, and the pulse of the fish. Here are a few items to think about:
Match the Hatch: Use flies that mimic local prey, considering size and color.
Control the Swing: Adjust your cast angle and line mending to ensure a slow, enticing swing through promising spots.
Depth and Speed: Experiment with sink tips to keep your fly at the right depth and speed, as Chinook tend to strike flies moving at a natural pace.
Stay Attentive: Be ready for subtle takes. Chinook might not always strike hard; a slight tension could be a fish.
5 Great Chinook Fly Patterns for the Swing
Intruder: Known for its large profile and ability to move a lot of water, attracting attention.
Skagit Minnow: Mimics small baitfish with its flashy and articulated body.
String Leech: Its long, flowing profile is ideal for imitating leeches, a favorite prey.
Articulated Hareball Leech: Offers a substantial, meaty profile with great movement.
Green Butt Skunk: A classic pattern that’s highly visible and effective in various water conditions.
Navigating Alaskan Waters for Prime Fishing
Alaska’s waters are vast and varied. Knowing where to cast your line is as important as knowing how. George notes this as the pillow water.
“What Chinook are doing is they grab the fly, they drop it, they grab it again, they drop it, they grab it a third time and this time they turn. Let ’em chew the gum, wait till they truly eat. The eat is the grab and turn. More often than not, it’s got a bump, bump, take. Sometimes it’s an immediate take, sometimes it’s a bump and then a violent takedown. But you’ve got to let them chew the gum.” -George Cook
The Role of Patience in Catching Chinook
Patience is the silent partner in the dance between the angler and the Chinook.
Embracing patience while swinging for Chinook is about appreciating the process as much as the catch. Understand that these fish are elusive and respect their habitat.
Maintain a steady, rhythmic swing, and resist the urge to rush or change spots too quickly. Each cast is an opportunity to learn and refine your technique.
Remember, the wait and the preparation are part of the experience, enhancing the thrill when you finally feel that tug on the line.
One big Takeaway on Chinook Fishing
Chinook are known to be attracted to flies that mimic their natural prey and are presented in a realistic, enticing manner.
This means not only choosing the right fly pattern but also ensuring that the swing of the fly in the water mimics the movement of real prey.
The fly should enter the water softly, be allowed to sink to the appropriate depth, and then be swung through the current in a smooth, controlled manner that entices the Chinook to strike.
Patience and persistence, combined with a deep understanding of the fish’s behavior and habitat, are key to successfully catching a Chinook on a fly.
Conclusion on Swinging Flies for Chinook
Catching a Chinook is an achievement that goes beyond the scales and the trophy pictures. It’s about the stories you gather, the experiences you absorb, and the memories you create in Alaska’s untamed waters.
As you step out with your gear, remember, you’re not just after a fish; you’re becoming a part of a larger story – the timeless tale of man and nature, woven together by the river’s flow.
10:19 – Dane is originally from Pueblo, Colorado, where he grew up fishing in western Colorado due to his grandfather owning a fly shop.
ork, specifically Utica, and later moved to Gunnison, Colorado, where he met Dane. They became roommates and began guiding together.
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