(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters – Backpacking and Blisters
(0:00:05) – Podcast Origins and Guest Selection Carl and Derek started a podcast to entertain, meeting many in the outdoor community after a backpacking trip to Glacier National Park.
(0:10:47) – Gear and Trip Planning Tips Carl discusses ultra-light backpacking, how much weight children can carry, and his passion for trail running and backpacking trips.
(0:21:23) – Choosing Gear for Outdoor Activities Finding the right balance between comfort and durability when selecting a backpacking pad, researching brands, and Carl’s story of chasing a grizzly bear away from his campsite.
(0:32:07) – Gear and Food for Backpacking Trips Essential gear for successful backpacking trips, including sleeping bags, tents, stoves, water filters, and food, are discussed, emphasizing budget and quality balance.
(0:39:30) – Hiking Myths, Tips, and Gear We provide tips on backpacking, from rustling in the bushes to packing the right gear and food.
(0:51:16) – Outdoor Enthusiasts & Handling Podcast Guests Researching sources, engaging in conversations, and respecting the platform are key when backpacking.
(0:59:52) – Hiking, Basketball, and Adventure Goals Carl and his friends discussed hiking, basketball, backpacking, running shoes, gear, myths, and tips.
(1:07:41) – Planning a Marathon and Traveling Setting goals for health, types of shoes and marathons, benefits of backpacking, and Carl’s story of getting into backpacking.
(1:11:27) – Discussion on Podcasting and Accountability We talk about Carl’s journey, staying accountable, trail running, backpacking gear, myths, and tips, researching sources, basketball, setting goals, and shoes for backpacking.
Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller of Yakoda Supply return today on the podcast to bring us up to speed on the exciting developments in their Colorado-based company.
Delve into their commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and their strategic decision to keep all their products American-made. We’ll also learn about some of their amazing products, including the Yakoda Gear Transport and their Convertible Utility Pack.
Let’s join Jason and Justin for a conversation filled with insights into the world of fly fishing and the principles that drive Yakoda Supply’s success.
Show Notes with Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller on Yakoda Supply Products. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller on Yakoda Supply Products
02:00 – It’s been two and a half years since our last catch-up with Jason and Justin, but today, they’re back to fill us in on all the exciting developments over at Yakoda Supply.
03:44 – Justin hails from Texas and has a background in graphic design. He initially collaborated with a friend who owned a fly shop in Boulder, Colorado. It was during a trip in 2017 that he crossed paths with Jason.
04:50 – Jason was originally from New York and made Colorado his home in 1996. His professional background spans operations and creativity, and he spent a significant part of his career as a chef.
Yakoda Supply Products
07:10 – The Yakoda Gear Transport was one of their first products and is now in its third iteration.
11:30 – We discussed their commitment to keeping all their products made in the USA, which has proven to be a strategic advantage, especially during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
17:05 – Jason and Justin shared their experience of opening their shop. Their first year of running a retail shop has been filled with surprises and positive encounters as they meet various individuals walking through their doors.
25:00 – When Justin and Jason started Yakoda, having a line of flies wasn’t part of their original plan. It all started when they listed a Hot Wire CDC pattern on their website, which sold out in less than a day, surprising them.
Photo via https://yakodasupply.com/
28:00 – They’ve established a strong partnership with MFC, who now ties their flies. Currently, they have nearly 30 patterns in their lineup, and Justin and Jason said they don’t foresee adding many more.
31:57 – Initially, they offered small fly tins on a quarterly basis, but now subscribers receive a larger fly box, known as the Slim Tin, capable of holding around 100 flies.
Photo via https://yakodasupply.com/products/slim-tin
33:30 – They also launched monthly products, available in three-pack and six-pack options. These monthly deliveries consist exclusively of flies from the Yakoda lineup, carefully selected for the season or even the month.
34:20 – Yakoda offers subscribers not only the flies and corresponding content but also an ongoing discount code for year-round website purchases. Additionally, members can access exclusive Yakoda Fly Club products not accessible to the general public.
45:22 – We delved into the fishing scene in Colorado, particularly in the Boulder Creek drainage area. They primarily target wild rainbows and wild browns.
52:00 – In our conversation, we delved into the latest addition to Yakoda’s lineup: the nippers.
57:00 – Jason and Justine take pride in their commitment to conservation efforts, particularly through their support of 1% for the Planet. They’re also founding partners of Protect Our Rivers.
Additionally, Yakoda collaborates with Indifly to protect fisheries in indigenous communities and backs Backcountry Hunters and Anglers to advocate for public land access.
59:37 – Jason and Justin love listening to music by Jerry Garcia, Waylon Jennings, and War on Drugs.
1:01:26 – According to Justin, Jason is a true-crime podcast enthusiast, often exchanging podcast links with Justin’s wife. Recently, Jason has listened to Spooked and Lost Hills.
1:02:31 – Jason added that they also listen to business podcasts like Wisdom from the Top.
Conclusion with Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller on Yakoda Supply Products
And there you have it, folks! Jason and Justin from Yakoda Supply really showcased how passion and purpose can drive a business. I was blown away by their dedication to American craftsmanship and their amazing product line. Can’t wait to see what they do next!
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters – Heroes Mending on the Fly
(0:00:05) – Fly Fishing Heroes and Origins Gervais learned fly fishing from his father and later co-founded Heroes Mending on the Fly, discussing the importance of fly fishing in the US and Canada.
(0:09:49) – Fly Fishing for Veterans With PTSD Gervais helps people reconnect with nature through fly fishing and family involvement and explains how to get started with the program.
(0:23:05) – Time Material, Donating, and Fishing Outings Partnerships, donations, family trips, and wildlife encounters are discussed.
(0:30:41) – Fishing in Quebec Gervais shares his experience of fly fishing in Quebec, taking Canadian veterans on trips, and exploring Nature’s Lactinage Lake and waterways.
(0:44:09) – Fishing Equipment Recommendations and Personal Journey Gervais discusses his preference for chest waiters, LG Fly Rods, Escape Anglers, Vision’s Fly Rods, and the Montmorency River, as well as the impact of donations and raffle trips organized by the Larch Hills Fly Fishing Club.
(0:47:45) – Fishing in Quebec City and Surrounding Areas Gervais started a fly fishing program for veterans in Quebec City, using LG Fly Rods, Escape Anglers, and Vision’s Fly.
(0:58:41) – Heroes Mending on the Fly Canada Gervais shares how fly fishing has become a source of healing and connection for veterans, partnering with businesses to connect to nature.
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters – Middle Fork of Salmon River
(0:00:05) – Fly Fishing Middle Fork Salmon River The Middle Fork of the Salmon River offers a lifetime experience of fishing for West Slope Cutthroat.
(0:13:20) – Fishing and Boating on Middle Fork Exploring the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, we discuss oar-powered boats, fishing for bull trout, and the potential of catching 12-17-inch fish.
(0:26:46) – Unplugging and History of Hatch Expeditions Hatch River Expeditions is a family-run business offering DIY trips for 50 years
Photo by Hatch River Expeditions via Instagram
(0:35:28) – An All-Inclusive Outdoor Adventure Hatch River Expeditions offers all-inclusive trips with mathematical systems, natural clocks, hot springs, cast and blast, and wildlife.
(0:43:32) – Whitewater Rivers and Wilderness Exploration We explore Idaho’s rivers for fishing, investigate native steelhead and Chinook salmon, and discuss the unique experience of Hatch River Expeditions.
(0:48:11) – Launch Fly Shop Giveaway Shoutouts Fly Shop Friday giveaway hosted by Hughes River Outfitters, Three Rivers Ranch, Idaho Angler, Boise Anglers, and Josh Ritter’s song “Idaho” discussed.
(0:51:05) – Podcasts, Music, and University of Idaho We discussed the University of Idaho, Josh Ritter, “Tubs at the Club”, Grateful Dead, Dave Matthews, and Hughes River Outfitters giveaway.
Today, we chat with Chris Loh, the lucky winner of our Stonefly Custom Landing Net Build Out Giveaway. Chris walks us through the process of crafting his dream net with Ethan.
Show Notes with Chris Loh on Custom Landing Net Build Out. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Chris Loh on Custom Landing Net Build Out
01:52 – Chris began fly fishing when his uncle hired his friend Mel Krieger to teach Chris and his twin brother how to cast on their 12th birthday.
3:00 – After college, Chris took a break from fishing to focus on being part of the workforce. It wasn’t until a few years ago, just before the pandemic began that his friend rekindled his interest in fly fishing.
05:50 – We talked about Chris’s experience as the lucky winner of the Stonefly Nets giveaway event.
Conclusion with Chris Loh on Custom Landing Net Build Out
Well, that wraps up our chat with Chris Loh. I mean, how cool is it that he learned fly casting from none other than Mel Krieger? Plus, building that dream landing net with Ethan. Can’t wait to see what he catches with it.
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Chad Johnson on White River Fly Fishing
(0:00:05) – Fly Fishing’s Impact on White River Chad’s Southern hospitality, CJ’s White River Outfitters team, and the rise of fly fishing for big brown trout are discussed.
(0:10:51) – Fishing for Big Brown Trout Variations Brown trout spawn, caddis hatches, streamers for larger fish, and why big fish don’t go after solvers or midges in summer.
(0:18:40) – Streamer Fishing Tactics and Fly Design Brown trout display different behaviors post-spawn, including aggression and feeding bites, which are important to recognize when fishing in the White River with varying fly sizes.
(0:28:37) – Fly Fishing Chad’s ‘Sluggo’ and ‘Big Johnson’ designs, deer hair heads, ‘T-bone’ prey, and ‘kill shots’ discussed for streamer fly fishing.
(0:45:21) – Fishing Strategies and Water Flow Importance Boating for trout requires raking the bank, casting at an angle, and paying attention to water flow, with a guide recommended for new anglers.
(1:00:18) – Color and Technique in Streamer Fishing Yellow is effective for early season spawn, while white and ginger can be used to target rainbows and suckers; depth, movement, and hunter’s mentality are key for success.
Trent Denhof and Janelle Petzak of The Bum Diary Show are here to talk about their amazing DIY fly fishing trips, particularly in Argentina and New Zealand.
Show Notes with Trent and Janelle on The Bum Diary Podcast. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Trent and Janelle on The Bum Diary Podcast
1:38 – Janelle shares how The Bum Diary Podcast came to be. It all started in the back of an Explorer documenting their DIY travels. They are now transitioning from podcast to YouTube at The Bum Diary Show.
5:25 – Trent shares how they DIY their fly fishing trips overseas. He also tells us about their previous trips to Argentina and New Zealand.
10:30 – Trent had a heart attack in college. After that, he went back to Michigan where he was born and raised to take over their farm until he sold it. That’s also the time when he met Janelle.
Bailing hay all day (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/thebumdiary/)
17:01 – They tell us what they love about the way they’ve been doing things over the last few years. You can watch their exciting adventures on their YouTube channel at The Bum Diary Show.
19:00 – We dig into each of their first memory of fly fishing.
24:30 – Trent shares the first time they went on a fly-fishing trip to New Zealand for eight weeks.
Day 3 in New Zealand at Huka Falls. Words cannot express how beautiful this country is. It feels like we are in a dream. (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/thebumdiary/)
25:50 – They talk about how they decide on their next destination.
27:78 – They work in Bullwinkle’s bar in Yellowstone from May to October. They go overseas from November to December, then the Florida Keys until April.
28:20 – Janelle tells about their interesting living setup in the Florida Keys.
29:38 – They give tips for anyone who wants to try a DIY fly fishing trip.
30:55 – They tell us about their setup when they travel using their Ford Explorer. Trent also gives a big tip on traveling and frugality.
34:40 – They use fly rods from Redington, particularly a 5wt. Trent also shares a tip on gear when going on a fly fishing trip. He commends Echo and Redington for their superb customer service.
Its pouring rain in Argentina today with a temp of about 46°. Just waiting for this weather to quit so my bff and I can get back to (Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/janelledenhof/)
37:00 Trent gives a shout-out to Justin Spence of Big Sky Anglers who saved their Striker raft in Argentina. He considers him as his mentor. We had Justin on the podcast in episode 227.
38:00 – I give a shout-out to Jerry French whom we also had on the show in episode 139.
38:28 – He shares the biggest thing that made an impact in his life which led him to live the way he currently does with Janelle.
Photo via: https://www.instagram.com/thebumdiary/
41:54 – Looking ahead, they hope to visit Alaska to catch a Dolly Varden. He also shares their plans to settle down outside the country.
43:50 – I ask him about the challenges they face in their line of work.
44:40 – I give a shout-out to one of our avid listeners who are interested in DIY fly-fishing trips. Trent also shares a funny story about his dry bag and his being always overprepared on trips.
49:33 – He talks a bit about the bear attacks in Yellowstone.
55:08 – Trent’s go-to music is underground hip-hop and old country.
You can find Trent and Janelle on Instagram @TheBumDiary.
Conclusion with Trent and Janelle on DIY Fly Fishing Trips
Trent Denhof and Janelle Petzak of The Bum Diary Show are here to talk about their amazing DIY fly fishing trips, particularly in Argentina and New Zealand.
Lucas Bissett joins us today to discuss the AFFTA Confluence 2023 event, providing an exciting insight into the changes it brings this year. Among the highlights is the introduction of real-time census data providing a more accurate snapshot of the industry’s growth.
Show Notes with Lucas Bissett on AFFTA Confluence 2023. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Lucas Bissett on AFFTA Confluence 2023
2:05 – Lucas discovered fly fishing later in life when his family relocated to Missouri around age 10. At the age of 12, he received a basic fly fishing kit from his grandmother and started catching panfish and bass with it.
02:55 – Following a break during his college years, Lucas reignited his love for fishing at the age of 24 when he successfully landed his first redfish on a fly. He eventually pursued a career as a guide, spending 11 years guiding people red fishing from the back of a skiff.
07:55 – We discuss the importance of positive reviews as a guide, and Lucas shares insights on navigating and addressing less favorable feedback.
American Fly Fishing Trade Association
12:00 – AFFTA is the sole trade association in fly fishing. Their main goal is to try to help guide the sustainable growth of the fly fishing industry.
12:55 – For Lucas, it’s crucial that individuals feel their trade association is actively advocating for their interests. This involves organizing events that unite industry players in a business-oriented setting.
13:30 – They’ve done the International Fly Tackle Dealer Show in the past, but that has changed to Confluence this year. The Confluence is a very similar show, but they have made pretty dramatic changes, according to Lucas.
14:10 – Lucas shares that AFFTA has partnered with TrackFly, a data collection company, to obtain more precise and real-time census data. This system integrates with retailers’ Point of Sale (POS) systems and then gathers and compiles the information, which AFFTA will use to generate a biannual report.
31:40 – Lucas provides insights into his perspective on the current state of the fly fishing industry.
45:34 – Lucas enjoys fishing and tries to do it whenever he can. His job at AFFTA lets him travel across the country, so he takes the opportunity to fish in different places.
47:00 – Lucas offers advice for those interested in becoming fishing guides and shares what it takes to pursue a career in guiding.
Conclusion with Lucas Bissett on AFFTA Confluence 2023
Lucas Bissett’s insights into the AFFTA Confluence 2023 reveal exciting changes, including the introduction of real-time census data, offering a more accurate glimpse into the industry’s growth. His personal journey in fly fishing and experience as an Orvis-Endorsed Guide in 2017 provide valuable perspectives for aspiring fishing guides.
In today’s episode, owner of Fly Fishers Shop and Scientific Angler Ambassador Pat Ehlers takes us to fly fishing largemouth bass. Pat’s journey into the world of fly fishing is a tale that began with childhood wonder and evolved into a lifelong passion.
Show Notes with Pat Ehlers on Fly Fishing Largemouth Bass. Hit play below! 👇🏻
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Pat Ehlers on Fly Fishing Largemouth Bass
02:10 – Pat’s journey into fly fishing began as a young kid watching the first American Sportsman show on ABC with Curt Gowdy and Jack Dennis. He later developed a special mentorship with Jack Dennis and opportunities to share his knowledge at national fly fishing shows.
08:22 – We talked about the evolution of fishing and fishing equipment over the years. Pat’s commitment to finding high-end gear to better serve his customers eventually led him to explore saltwater fishing.
09:20 – Pat’s introduction to Rick Murphy came through a connection with Flip Pallot. This meeting proved instrumental in expanding his knowledge of saltwater fishing. Today, Rick Murphy is the host of Sportsman’s Adventures.
15:07 – Pat provides an overview of the fishing opportunities in their area. The region also boasts some of the best bass lakes within a 20-minute drive. Pat is well-equipped for these expeditions, thanks to his partnership with VEXUS Boats and Mercury Marine’s Pro team.
Finding Fish
19:17 – When it comes to targeting largemouth bass, having access to a boat is crucial, as the fish tend to be in deeper waters. Pat owns a 21-foot VEXUS boat, which he finds to be the perfect fit for pursuing largemouth bass in their part of the world.
22:08 – Pat uses reliable electronics for locating fish, like Minn Kota Humminbird. However, he acknowledges that not everyone may have access to such high-tech equipment, and a good lake map can be incredibly useful in finding fish.
24:49 – Pat mentions his collaboration with Scientific Anglers to develop specialized lines, including the Sonar Titan Sink Tip Mini, a five-foot mini sink tip that has proven popular among anglers.
34:00 – Pat says his Vampire Leech is a good pattern to use when dealing with cold water conditions. Pat also mentions the Grim Reaper pattern, inspired by the swim jigs.
Photo via https://www.theflyfishers.com/P/528/GrimReaperPatEhlers
45:00 – Pat says it’s an excellent time for fly fishing in early September, with the water temperatures still warm and the bass active.
48:00 – Pat also shares an interesting technique involving the popper dropper.
56:00 – Pat emphasizes that the choice of rod size depends on the type of flies being used and the size of the fish one anticipates encountering.
1:01:24 – Pat shares a casting technique he developed, resembling an underhand cast, which allows for accurate placement of the fly even in challenging locations.
(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)
Sponsors and Podcast Updates
Episode Chapters with Kevin Sloan on Skwala Fishing
1:41 – Kevin shares the story of how he got into fly fishing. His interest in the sport started when he was very young. Then his dad took him to a Trout Unlimited Barbecue when he was just 10 years old where a guy doing a casting demonstration spent an hour with him to teach him.
4:01 – Most of their customers in Skwala Fishing are advanced fly fishers.
4:30 – He takes us back to how he got into the industry. He started guiding when he was 19 then at 25, he worked at Orvis in product development. That’s where he got his start and foundation in the fly fishing space. Then he got involved in Sitka and led that business from day one to nearly a decade.
7:49 – We dig into their product design and development process at Skwala. He mentions their Carbon Jacket that is fully waterproof and has a four-way stretch shell that will keep you dry but still allow you to comfortably with it.
11:38 – We talk about their waders. The major factors that they considered while developing their waders were mobility and breathability.
RS Wader (Photo via: https://skwalafishing.com)
12:42 – He explains what a fourchette is.
14:30 – He gives valuable tips on how to take good care of your waders to make them last for years.
19:45 – He tells us about merino wool which is one of the materials used for designing their Thermo 150 Hoody. Merino wool gives a warm fuzzy feeling even when it’s wet.
24:50 – He gives recommendations on what products to choose from their line if you’re going fishing during cold months. If you’re going steelhead fishing in December, he highly recommends their RS collection.
27:54 – We talk about the features of one of their favorite pieces, the Fusion 3/2 Puffy which is water-resistant and breathable.
33:10 – For waders to be durable, they have to be puncture-resistant and tear-resistant. He tells more on how to test your waders at home to see if there are tears on them.
36:12 – He talks about their guarantee and warranty.
37:50 – We dig into Gore-Tex and similar materials that they use in their products for waterproofing and breathability.
39:53 – He loves all kinds of fishing, especially swinging for steelheads.
40:40 – For saltwater fishing, he recommends their Sol collection.
Photo via: https://skwalafishing.com
41:37 – I ask about bamboo fabrics.
42:53 – Looking ahead, they also plan to release their line of boots.
45:14 – He takes us back to that time when he started building Skwala Fishing and shares how he came up with the name and branding.
![](https://wetflyswing.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/download-25.png")
