Episodes

  • Great Lakes Dude #10 | Fly Fishing Michigan's Wilderness with Capt. Brad Petzke - Upper Peninsula, Lake Superior, Rivers North Guide Service

    Great Lakes Dude #10 | Fly Fishing Michigan's Wilderness with Capt. Brad Petzke - Upper Peninsula, Lake Superior, Rivers North Guide Service
    May 6 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/602

    Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Skwala, Waters West, Visit Helena, MT

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    In this episode of the Great Lakes Dude podcast, we're gonna chit-chat and take a journey into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with Capt. Brad Petzke, owner of Rivers North Guide Service. Yes, it's still Michigan. Once you cross that big, long Mackinac bridge and head north from the Lower Peninsula, it almost seems like another state. Once you cross it, things start to get a little more wilderness, a lot less towns and cities and villages, and just a lot of water and opportunities to explore.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • 601 | Drift Boat vs. Raft: Decoding the Best Fly Fishing Experience with Adam Hudson of Blue Line Flies

    601 | Drift Boat vs. Raft: Decoding the Best Fly Fishing Experience with Adam Hudson of Blue Line Flies
    May 3 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/601

    Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Skwala, Togens Fly Shop

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    Is it better to purchase a drift boat or a raft for fly fishing? Do you know which of these two options is the better? All-around purchase if you can only get one? And what about rebuilding an old boat? Is this a realistic option to save money and maybe get into your first boat? Today you're going to hear the drift boat versus raft debate and you'll find out how my guest today restored a boat that barely held water.

    Adam Hudson is back on the show to take us into his unlikely boat build out story and how he took on this project and, and what happened, how he finished it up and where he is heading. Next, Adam And I debate the benefits of the drift boat versus the raft. We find out which raft he recently purchased that has a hard floor, and we also get his top streamer patterns from Blue Line. Plus, we're gonna hear what it was like to finally row this boat down the Green River. And whether it passed the test, the Battle of the Boats is finally here.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/601
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 600 | Gary Borger - Legendary Angler on 60+ Years in Fly Fishing - A River Runs Through It, Nymphing, Naturals

    600 | Gary Borger - Legendary Angler on 60+ Years in Fly Fishing - A River Runs Through It, Nymphing, Naturals
    May 1 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/600

    Presented By: Visit Helena, MT, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Yellowstone Teton Territory

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    If you could sit down and listen to the person who was invited to develop the movie, A River Runs Through It, would you check it out? Would you listen to the person who literally brought Nipping to the forefront in the US back in the day? What about a person who could rattle on about the brief history of every person in the US who paved the way for the present-day fly anglers and the trajectory that we're on now? Well, today you're in luck because we have Gary Borger back on the show to take a deep dive into the history of fly fishing, to get into tips and tricks, and to hear how he's been doing it for over 60 years.

    Gary Borger, the author of Nymphing, Naturals, and many other iconic fly fishing books, is here to share stories of an old angler and the tips he accumulated over the years of fly fishing around the world. We hear about who invented the double hall and how Gary is connected to that. We find out how he developed into the Fenwick fly fishing schools back in the 70s and how that was a major breakthrough back in the day. And we also find out how his first video was actually the first instructional fly-fishing video ever produced.

    Did I mention this was episode 600? So we're celebrating this episode with a Legendary angler, Gary Borger! If you get a chance, head over to Instagram. If you're over there, leave a comment. 600 and just leave 600 wherever you can. We're passing 600 and we're moving along. Big celebration. I always love trying to get a big guest on the show at our milestones. So let's go back in history with one of the best...

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/600
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 599 | Fly Fishing Pressured Waters with Nick Conklin of Temple Fork Outfitters

    599 | Fly Fishing Pressured Waters with Nick Conklin of Temple Fork Outfitters
    Apr 29 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/599 Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory, FishHound Expeditions, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Togiak River Lodge What do you do when your favorite spot is packed with other anglers or when you're navigating crowded rivers all day? Today we uncover expert tips on fly fishing pressured waters and gain exclusive insights from Nick Conklin of Temple Fork Outfitters. Learn about choosing the perfect rod for your next adventure, why local shows are game-changers, and the secrets behind TFO's big game rods. If you're a TFO enthusiast like me, you won't want to miss this update on one of the leading rod companies in the industry! Show Notes with Nick Conklin on Fly Fishing Pressured Waters. 2:29 - Growing up in Michigan, Nick Conklin had the privilege of fishing in a 70-acre private lake and exploring the nearby Pere Marquette River. Nick's interest in fly fishing sparked when he was eight after reading an Ernest Hemingway story, leading him to learn fly casting, tying flies, and exploring various fishing opportunities. While Nick's childhood fishing grounds were in Michigan, he's now based in Dallas, Texas, where he continues to explore fishing on the Texas coast. Nick's Journey to TFO 4:31 - Initially involved in outdoor journalism, Nick's passion for fishing and writing led him to TFO. He started with part-time work and eventually moved into various roles, from warranty services to product category management. 6:54 - Nick oversees product design, development, sales, and marketing for the fly fishing division. He collaborates with industry experts, manages trade shows, and engages with dealers and consumers to promote TFO products. Temple Fork Outiftters 7:55 - TFO offers a diverse range of fishing rods, from small trout and panfish rods to heavy-duty boat rods for saltwater fishing. They cover both conventional and fly fishing categories. 9:36 - Nick tells us about their collaboration with Jason Randall on rod projects, including the Drift series. Recommendations for New Fly Fishers Nick suggests starting with a combo kit like the NXT Black Label Kit. Here's a summary of his recommendations and insights: Combo kits provide everything a beginner needs, including the rod, reel, backing, fly line, and leader, making it easier to get started without worrying about individual components. New anglers should consider their budget and what type of fishing they plan to do the most. This helps in choosing the right rod weight and length for their needs. Combo kits often come with a practice fly line, allowing beginners to practice casting without worrying about damaging an expensive fly line. Casting Tips 18:00 - Nick emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from qualified educators or casting instructors who can help beginners navigate the casting process effectively. Local fly shops, fly fishing clubs, and online resources like Google searches can be invaluable in finding resources and communities to support learning. While it may require an investment, hiring a guide can significantly accelerate the learning curve and provide valuable insights into fishing techniques, specific waters, and asking pertinent questions. Fly Fishing Pressured Waters 21:00 - Nick's upcoming book, Fly Fishing Pressured Western Rivers, is scheduled for release by the end of 2024. The book aims to address the challenges of fishing on heavily pressured rivers, particularly in Western regions. Navigating crowded rivers and finding success can be challenging but rewarding. Here are some valuable tips from Nick: Preparation: Focus on organizing gear, practicing casting skills, and refining your approach before hitting the water to maximize fishing time. Observation: Spend time observing other anglers' techniques and approaches to learn from their successes and challenges. Flexibility: Stay open to adjusting your fishing strategies based on seasonal conditions, time of day, and weather to increase your chances of success. Journaling: Keep detailed notes about your fishing experiences, including what worked, what didn't, and any observations about conditions or tactics. Reviewing these notes before future trips can provide valuable insights and improve fishing performance. TFO Rod Lineup Overview TFO offers a diverse lineup of rods catering to various fishing styles and species, ensuring there's something for everyone from beginners to seasoned anglers. They provide high-quality rods at reasonable price points. They offer combo kits that include rod and reel combinations, making it convenient and cost-effective for beginners to get started with everything they need. Choosing the Right Fly Rod for Beginners Here are some key tips and advice for beginners looking to choose the right fly rod: Try Different Rods: Try out a few different rods to find one that fits your casting style and preferences. Focus on Personal Preference: Ignore brand names and logos initially. Instead, focus on how comfortable ...
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 598 | The Evolution of Fly Casting: Insights from the Golden Gate Casting Club with Jim Dawson

    598 | The Evolution of Fly Casting: Insights from the Golden Gate Casting Club with Jim Dawson
    Apr 26 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/598

    Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Skwala, Togens Fly Shop

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    In this episode, we dive into the rich history of the Golden Gate Casting Club with Jim Dawson, the club's resident historian. Discover the revolutionary impact of a young orphan who reshaped fly casting technology, linking his innovations directly to the tech you use today, like your iPhone. Jim shares captivating stories from the club’s past, including tales about legendary figures like Jimmy Green, whose techniques and inventions propelled fly fishing into the future. Tune in to uncover the roots of modern fly casting and get inspired by the techniques that top anglers have used to dominate the sport.

    Episode Chapters

    (0:00:05) – Introduction to the Golden Gate Casting Club
    Exploring the connection between historical casting champions and modern fly casting technology, with an introduction to the episode's focus on the Golden Gate Casting Club.

    (0:02:13) – The Legacy of Jim Dawson and the Casting Club
    Jim Dawson discusses the historical significance of the club and its impact on fly casting competitions and innovations in the United States.

    (0:03:36) – The Innovations of Jimmy Green
    A deep dive into how Jimmy Green's innovations in rod and line design have influenced modern fly fishing, including anecdotes about his life and contributions.

    (0:07:22) – Mono Running Lines and Their Origin
    Discussion on the origins and development of mono running lines at the Golden Gate Casting Club and their impact on fly fishing technology.

    (0:10:45) – The Role of the Golden Gate Casting Club in Modern Fly Fishing
    Jim elaborates on the club's role in shaping the practices and technologies used in contemporary fly fishing, including spay casting.

    (0:15:00) – Evolution of Fly Casting Techniques and Competitions
    Insights into the evolution of fly casting techniques and the structure of modern casting competitions, highlighting the club's ongoing influence.

    (0:19:55) – Historical Anecdotes and Guest Stories
    Jim shares memorable stories from past club members and significant events that have marked the club’s history.

    (0:23:38) – The Intersection of Technology and Fly Fishing
    Discussion on how advancements in technology have intertwined with fly fishing practices, featuring stories about Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak.

    (0:27:04) – Q&A: Insights into Fly Casting and Conservation
    Listeners ask questions about fly casting techniques and conservation efforts related to fly fishing, with Jim providing expert answers.

    (0:30:15) – Closing Thoughts and Future of Fly Fishing
    Jim reflects on the future of fly fishing and the role of innovative thinking in sustaining the sport's growth and ecological responsibility.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/598
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • 597 | Cicada Madness: Cracking the Code of Epic Cicada Emergences with David Zielinski

    597 | Cicada Madness: Cracking the Code of Epic Cicada Emergences with David Zielinski
    Apr 24 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/597 Presented By: TroutRoutes, Guide Book, Skwala, FishHound Expeditions Are you interested to know how to target one of the craziest hatches that will make national headlines this year? Today, Dave Zielinski is back on the podcast to give his best tips on fishing the Cicada hatch, including how to predict when and where to find them and how to have success when you're out on the water. Time for some cicada madness with a sprinkle of boat building! Show Notes with David Zielinski on Cicada Madness. 1:27 - It's great to have David back on the show after our last episode where we delved into boat building. Today, though, we're shifting gears to focus on cicadas. 5:24 - Dave Zielinski's book, Cicada Madness, explores the timing, fishing techniques, and patterns essential for understanding and enjoying epic cicada emergences. Periodical cicadas emerge in synchronized cycles, akin to mayfly hatches Cicada Madness: The Rare Cicada Emergence of 2024 10:31 - This year, a rare and significant event involving two distinct broods of periodical cicadas is set to occur. The emergence is expected to impact between 17 to 20 states, spanning from the bottom of Wisconsin to the coastal areas of Alabama and Louisiana. The Cicada Lifecycle 15:48 - Cicadas have a 13 or 17-year lifecycle, spending most of their time underground as nymphs. The adult cicadas emerge to mate, lay eggs, and then die, continuing the cycle. The trigger for emergence is when the ground soil reaches around 64 degrees Fahrenheit at about eight inches deep. This happens rapidly over a few days in early summer when days are longer and the soil warms up due to increased sunshine. Success on the Water with Cicadas 24:48 - Success in cicada fishing hinges on understanding the bug's lifecycle and emergence timing. Fish only start targeting cicadas when enough of them accidentally fall into the water, signaling to the fish that it's a food source. Dave emphasizes the importance of knowing where and when to be on the water. His book delves into detailed experiences and strategies for effectively targeting and fishing during cicada emergence. Cicada Fishing Techniques and Patterns 27:19 - Dave's book features 59 cicada patterns, including annual, periodical, and regional variations. Cicada fishing is often non-technical, favoring dry fly fishing techniques, although some fish prefer drag-free drifts while others go for actively moving cicadas. Fishing near mature trees where cicadas congregate is effective, as they often get knocked down by wind or during mating flights. Target areas where cicadas are likely to fall into the water, such as under trees or along riverbanks where the bugs lose elevation and hit the water. 33:41 - Trouts are avid cicada eaters and can consume them without getting full, making them a prime target during cicada emergences in trout waters. Carp are particularly enthusiastic about cicadas despite being bottom feeders. Other fish species like smallmouth bass, weird fish, and even catfish can also be caught on cicada patterns, although their response may vary based on factors like spawning cycles or food availability. Cicada Madness: Key Tips for Cicada Fishing 36:34 - Cicadas are true bugs, belonging to a group of insects with beaks that extract nutrients from plants, similar to leaf hoppers. Worldwide, there are over 3000 species of cicadas, each with a distinctive appearance characterized by stout bodies, bulging eyes, six legs, and two pairs of wings. Here are a few key tips as you gear up for cicada fishing: Research and hunt for cicadas in areas where they're expected to emerge. Be observant of your surroundings. Listen for the distinct sound of cicadas and watch for bird activity that may indicate their presence. Use large foam cicada patterns without popping or twitching them, as cicadas hitting the water tend to lay silently, mimicking a natural scenario for fish to strike. Understand the lifecycle and behavior of cicadas. Dave highlights two favorite cicada fly patterns that you can check out online for inspiration: 17-Year Itch Cicada Chuck Kraft Excaliburs Preparation Tips for Cicada Season If you're gearing up for cicada season, Dave suggests the following: Buy the Book: Get Dave's book for brood maps and scouting tips. Online Resources: Utilize online resources to gather information about cicada sightings in your area. Reach Out: Contact universities and entomology departments for expert insights and locations. Talk to Locals: Connect with people who have experienced cicada emergences before for valuable knowledge. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on news articles and scientific reports to stay updated on cicada predictions and hotspots. Down Home Boatworks 51:00 - While Dave hasn't designed new boats recently, he continues to sell plans. Dave also offers plans for free to schools and non-profits interested in boat-building projects. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/597...
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 596 | Predator on the Fly: Mako Shark Fly Fishing with Conway Bowman

    596 | Predator on the Fly: Mako Shark Fly Fishing with Conway Bowman
    Apr 22 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/596

    Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures, TroutRoutes, Jackson Hole Fly Company

    Try to imagine what a 200-pound shark hooked up on the end of your fly rod and jumping 20 feet out of the water would feel like. Hooking sharks on the fly is what today's guest specializes in.

    In this episode, Conway Bowman is going to take us into his wild world of mako shark fly fishing. Find out where to find these fish, how to pop your fly to these giants, and the thrilling experience of fighting a top predator on a fly rod.

    Show Notes with Conway Bowman on Mako Shark Fly Fishing.


    2:00 - Conway Bowman's passion for fishing began at a young age. He grew up around the water and spent summers in Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains. His journey into fly fishing for Mako Sharks began when a friend suggested it, leading Conway to explore offshore waters until he finally hooked his first Mako.

    7:55 - Despite not seeing himself as a rockstar in fly fishing, Conway's focus on targeting Mako Sharks has made him a recognized figure due to his unique approach and expertise.

    The World of Mako Shark Fly Fishing

    8:60 - Between 2007 and 2013, the demand for Mako Shark fly fishing surged, leading Conway to expand his operation and hire additional guides.

    At one point, there were a few guides besides Conway involved in Mako Shark fly fishing, but due to the physical demands and logistical challenges, he became the primary figure in the field.


    The Mako Shark: The Ultimate Game Fish

    Makos are true predators, actively tracking and attacking live prey, which adds to the thrill of targeting them on the fly. They are known for their acrobatics, being the only sharks that can jump up to 20 feet out of the water.

    18:00 - Depending on the size, landing a Mako shark can range from 15 minutes to over three hours. When landing, a release stick is used to safely handle the fish, applying pressure to release them.

    24:00 - Conway primarily uses poppers when fly fishing for Makos. Other species like leopard sharks and blue sharks can also be targeted with poppers, especially off the beach for leopard sharks.

    Mako Shark Life History

    26:00 - Mako Sharks typically arrive in Southern California around May to breed, with large females giving birth to 5-10 live pups.

    Pups stay in the safer Southern California waters until they're a few hundred pounds, feeding on smaller fish like tunas and barracudas. As they grow to 300-400 pounds, their diet shifts to larger prey like seals and sea lions.

    During colder months, Makos migrate, possibly to regions of Mexico, before returning in waves from April to November, with peak presence from June to August

    Best Time to Visit for Mako Shark Fly Fishing

    28:22 - Conway recommends mid-May through August and then October through November for Mako Shark fly fishing in Southern California. July is considered prime time for Mako Shark fishing.

    Gear for Mako Shark Fishing

    Conway uses specialized equipment tailored for handling these powerful predators. Here's a breakdown of the gear he uses:

    Rod: Starts with a 14-weight rod and then uses custom-made one-piece rods for larger Makos above 200 pounds.
    Reels: Various big game reels suitable for marlin or tuna fishing, with 800 yards of backing.
    Casting Technique: Uses an anchor cast technique, avoiding false casts, to efficiently get the fly from point A to point B within 30 feet.
    Fly Design: Employs a tube fly that slides up and down the leader, ensuring easy release and retrieval without leaving a big hook hanging from the shark's mouth.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/596
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    52 mins
  • In the Bucket #4 | Tales from Behind the Lens: Dano and Darcy on Snowboarding, Fly Fishing, and the Art of Photography

    In the Bucket #4 | Tales from Behind the Lens: Dano and Darcy on Snowboarding, Fly Fishing, and the Art of Photography
    Apr 19 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/595

    Join us in this episode of In the Bucket where Dano Pendygrasse and Darcy Bacha, renowned snowboarding photographers, dive into the vibrant world of fly fishing through their lenses. Discover how their decades of experience in snowboarding have shaped their approach to capturing the serene beauty of fly fishing. Dano and Darcy discuss the transition from the adrenaline of snowboarding shoots to the tranquil riversides, reflecting on the artistry and patience required in both disciplines. They share personal stories and professional insights on making passions into careers, the challenges of photography in extreme conditions, and the unexpected joys of exploring new waters. Whether you're a fan of their snowboarding work or looking to improve your fishing photography skills, this episode offers a unique perspective on embracing change and finding new passions.

    Episode Chapters

    (0:00:05) – Introduction to Guests - Introduction of Dano Pendygrasse and Darcy Bacha, discussing their backgrounds as iconic snowboarding photographers who have transitioned into the realm of fly fishing photography.

    (0:05:22) – The Link Between Snowboarding and Fly Fishing - Exploring how skills and experiences from snowboarding photography have influenced their approach to capturing the essence of fly fishing.

    (0:14:39) – The Shift from Snowboarding to Fishing - Darcy and Dano discuss their personal reasons for shifting their focus from the dynamic world of snowboarding to the more serene and reflective activity of fly fishing.

    (0:22:10) – Photographic Techniques in Extreme Conditions - Techniques and challenges faced while photographing in various environmental conditions, from icy mountains to humid riverbanks.

    (0:30:45) – Balancing Passion and Work - A discussion on the importance of maintaining passion in your work and the balance between professional photography and personal fishing time.

    (0:41:33) – The Evolution of Photography Gear - Insight into the evolution of photography equipment over the years and how advances have affected their work in both snowboarding and fishing photography.

    (0:51:17) – Stories from the Field - Engaging stories from their careers that highlight unexpected moments and the personal growth they experienced through their professional journeys.

    (1:03:50) – Future of Photography with AI and Technology - A conversation about the potential impacts of AI on professional photography and their views on the future of capturing images in natural environments.

    (1:15:28) – Advice for Aspiring Photographers - Practical advice for up-and-coming photographers on how to succeed in the competitive field of sports and outdoor photography.

    (1:27:45) – Closing Thoughts - Final thoughts and reflections on the importance of following your passions, whether in the wilds of nature or through the lens of a camera.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/595
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    1 hr and 34 mins