Send us a Text: Ask Us a Question!

This episode of Waypoints is a bit ... different. Host Jim Klug sits down with former White House Chief of Staff, Congressman, Mayor of Chicago, and U.S. Ambassador to Japan - Rahm Emanuel - for an out-of-the-ordinary, candid conversation that blends politics, perspective, and pure flyfishing obsession. While Rahm has been featured on countless political shows, this discussion steps away from pure campaign strategy and policy spin to explore how one of America’s most recognized political figures finds happiness and focus through flyfishing. From chasing peacock bass in the jungles of the Amazon to stalking trout in Montana, Rahm’s passion for the sport runs deep.

Known for his intensity and drive in the political arena, Emanuel opens up about how time on the water provides clarity, humility, and balance - and why conservation, access, and public lands should matter to every angler. The conversation ranges from global travel and favorite fisheries to flyfishing’s potential role in connecting people across political lines. It also touches on the current political climate in D.C. and the future of conservation and outdoor recreation policy. It’s an unexpected and refreshing look at a figure who may soon make headlines for much more than his casting stroke - and who just might be the one to bring flyfishing back to the White House in 2028!

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Facebook
- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

...

Send us a Text: Ask Us a Question!

On this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug records on location in Punta Allen, Mexico with South African angler, adventurer, guide, and lodge manager Francois Botha. A true global traveler, Francois has spent his career working and fishing in some of the world’s most remote and exciting destinations - from Alaska’s wild rivers to the Indian Ocean atolls, from Central Africa to the Yucatán. Today, he and his wife Dasha manage the well-known Palometa Club on Ascension Bay, while also splitting time between Alaska and Africa. With decades of experience guiding, managing lodges, and exploring new waters, Francois brings a unique perspective on what it really takes to make a life in fly fishing.

In this conversation, Jim and Francois dive into the realities of lodge life - the preparation, the grind, and the rewards of managing a world-class fishing operation. Francois talks about the challenges of running remote programs, the dynamics of working as a couple, the importance of versatility as a guide, and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating unforgettable guest experiences. They also explore how South African anglers have made such an outsized impact on the global fly fishing community, the differences in client expectations around the world, and what the future looks like for the next generation of destination anglers, explorers, and professional lodge managers.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Facebook
- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

...

Send us a Text: Ask Us a Question!

In this special Waypoints episode, we turn the content and the questions over to our listeners - and dive into a wide range of travel questions submitted by the Waypoints audience. Joining host Jim Klug for this Q&A session are two well-known voices in the fly fishing community: Tom Bie, editor and publisher of The Drake Magazine, and artist, musician, and traveling angler Paul Puckett. Together, they share stories, insights, and practical advice from years of fishing around the globe. The result is a fun, informative, and wide-ranging discussion that covers everything from essential gear hacks to cultural considerations - making this a must-listen for anyone planning their next destination adventure.

From big-picture planning and choosing the right destinations, to gear preparation, packing strategies, travel logistics, and on-the-ground tips, this conversation is all about the realities of flyfishing travel. Whether you’re a first-time international angler or a seasoned traveler looking to refine your approach, the questions covered in this episode are designed to make your next trip smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Facebook
- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

...