Ep. 314: Trout Routes in the Driftless Region

Brandon Butler flies solo in Wisconsin at Doug Duren’s legendary farm for a deep dive into fall in the Driftless. From glowing autumn hillsides to cold spring creeks full of browns and rainbows, this multi-part conversation explores why the Driftless is one of the Midwest’s most unique outdoor destinations.

In Part One, Brandon sits down with Eric Johnson, Community Marketing Manager for Trout Routes, to talk about mapping tools, OnX Hunt and OnX Fish, and how technology is helping anglers find public water. They’re joined by conservationist Doug Duren of Share the Land and Kyle Zempel of Black Earth Angling Co. to cover everything from smallmouth fishing to the top five flies you need in your box, plus the history that shaped this one-of-a-kind landscape.

Part Two features Doug again along with Tim and Sarah Landwehr, owners of Tight Lines Fly Fishing Company, as the conversation turns to muskie fishing, smallmouth trips, and the role of guides as not just teachers but counselors, educators, and storytellers. The crew also dives into destination angling—from the Amazon to Bolivia—and why hiring a guide on new water can change everything.

Part Three brings in Lyndsey Braun along with Zach Heredia and Lucas to share tales of Alaska adventures, South American fisheries, cooking up great meals after long days on the water, and the shared responsibility of conservation.

“It’s not ours—it’s just our time.” This episode is a celebration of trout fishing, public lands, and the people keeping the Driftless and beyond wild and welcoming for the next generation.

For more info:
Doug Duren Website
Trout Routes
Black Earth Angling Co
Tight Lines Fishing Co
Sharing The Land

Special thanks to:
Living The Dream Outdoor Properties
Superior Foam Insulation LLC
Doolittle Trailers
Scenic Rivers Taxidermy

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