The February Room A Fly Fishing Podcast

The Legendary Moana and the Great Mystery

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:09:00 -0000

If you fly fished on Christmas Island in the 80s, 90s, or early 2000s, there's a good chance you've heard the name "Moana". Moana is considered the patriarch of Christmas Island guides. Though he passed away in 2016, Moana has never been forgotten by those fortunate enough to have fished with him. We return to Christmas Island (CXI) to try to uncover Moana's memory and attempt to solve a 15-year-old mystery that we left behind.

The February Room is Brought to you By:

https://adamsbuiltfishing.com/

https://allrodco.com/

https://www.goriocraft.com/

https://gotfishing.com/

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Reties from the Archives: Brian O'Keefe

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Over the last 5 seasons, some amazing yarns have been spun in The February Room! We've decided to "Retie" a few of our favorites from the archives. During the Great Pandemic, Lauren enjoyed cutting it up with iconic fishing photographer Brian O'Keefe. Before O'Keefe became a household name throughout the world of adventure angling, he was a fishing guide on Oregon's Deschutes River. Brian's recount of his Guide Day from Hell was too good only to be heard once.

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Dave Goodhart and the Nine Lives of a Fishing Guide

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Columbus, Hillary, Magellan...Goodhart. Though the latter may not appear in textbooks, when it comes to exploratory fly fishing, he is every bit the risk-taker as the other names on the list. Hammer (and rod) in hand, Dave Goodhart helped construct the first outposts on the legendary Ponoi in Russia, the taimen rivers in Mongolia, and the steelhead and trout streams of Kamchatka. Throughout his long guiding career, including 20+ years in Alaska, he cheated death on numerous occasions and thankfully for us, lived to tell the tales!

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Episode 150 La Llorona: A River Ghost Story

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

The hour was late in a one-star motel room in Idaho. Huddled around a wobbly table, the three of us stared into our half-empty beers. Our buddy Mike G., who had spent many years guiding and boating the wild rivers of the American Southwest, was prompted to share...“have you guys ever heard the legend of La Llorona”? This is one of the most terrifying ghost stories we have ever heard on our fly fishing podcast. Listeners beware.

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Episode 149 Brian Oakland and the Permit Power Nap

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 12:34:31 -0000

Brian Oakland had been battling a brutish permit for over an hour. Each time he managed to get the leader within an arm's reach of the guide, the fish turned away, peeling the gained line back out of the reel. At a sweltering stalemate in Ascension Bay, the deckhand seized the opportunity to catch some Z's. As the founder of Got Fishing, Oakland has led adventures across the globe and shares his insight into the competitive world of hosted travel.

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Episode 148 Through the Eyes of a Tarpon Guide

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Lauren and Ashley arrived in the Florida Keys with little expectations and a boat-load of pent up angst. This was to be their first ever attempt at tarpon-on-the-fly. They had been warned of the challenges of pursuing the Silver King and few of their friends gave them much of a chance of actually landing on a tarpon on their initial foray. However, they had an ace-in-the-hole; A dedicated guide with the knowledge and patience to introduce beginners into the world of tarpon fly fishing. His name is Zach Stells.

SHOW NOTES:

@captzachstells

305-986-3211

WWW.CAPTZACHSTELLS.COM

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Episode 147 The Vandergrift Rules

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:01:00 -0000

Throughout a lifetime spent in the fly fishing industry, Pete Vandergrift of Cheeky Fishing has adopted a set of rules to qualify the value of fishing memories. The parameters are pretty simple: go outside your comfort zone, overcome obstacles...and save the big one for your Dad! It's not always the biggest, baddest catch (though those don't hurt) that land a fish into his personal Top 5 Fishing Memories.

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Episode 145 The Great White Sturgeon

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

We're back! Has it only been a year since our mysterious absence? The rumors have abounded that we were kidnapped by bottom trawlers or became a pickleball power couple, but truth is, we've just been busy with life...and a little fishing. While Lauren was working and holding down the fort, Justin used the respite to search for an Oregon dinosaur.

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Episode 146 John Perry's Phantasmagorical Riverfront Theater

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

If there is a "Cult of the Outdoors" in Western Montana, then John Perry is one of the ring leaders. The longtime guide, outfitter, lodge operator and fly creator is responsible for a generation of young, educated Missoulians pursuing river-life. Because, John knows how to make the most of the river miles. Perry's clients become kids again and excerpts from his riverfront camps seem like fantasy...but most of it is true!

https://www.johnperryflyfishing.com/

https://clarkforkriverlodgemt.com/

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Episode 144 He and I and the Kenai

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

To WATCH the whole story unfold, head to our YouTube Channel, @thefebruaryroom and enjoy our adventures with Mark Wackler of AK Fishology.

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Episode 143 Mending the Line

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

In preparation for this interview, we clicked the link to "Mending the Line" on the laptop. A captivating series of events unfolded in the opening scene. Then we were transported to a fly shop in Montana. Instantly, the hook was buried and it required the patience of a spring creek angler to hit "pause"...this was one of those cinematic events better experienced on the silver screen!

We are honored to be joined by Director Joshua Caldwell and Writer Stephen Camelio for a behind the scenes look at the filmmaking process from brainstorming to the box office. Starring Sinqua Walls, Brian Cox, Perry Mattfeld and Wes Studi, "Mending the Line" hits theaters June 9th and takes viewers on the tumultuous journey of a marine wounded in Afghanistan, his ensuing struggles with the traumatic aftermath and the discovery of fly fishing's therapeutic virtues.

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Episode 142 The Dirt on Aquatic Invasive Species

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We all know the risk of picking up hitchhikers, but we may be transporting nefarious passengers without even knowing it. Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are non-native plants and animals that have the potential to due lasting harm to our watersheds. Fisheries across the country have been permanently damaged by these critters, several of which have been traced back to maritime mishaps in the Great Lakes region. Across Montana and the Upper Midwest, fisheries and recreational managers are aligned with concerned citizens to prevent further spread of these noxious invaders.

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Episode 141 Rooster Fish Reflections

Wed, 24 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Battered, bruised, and begging for more, Lauren returns from her first roosterfishing adventure in Baja! The stoke level is atmospheric as she shares insight into the pre-trip preparations that made all the difference in organizing and executing a successful saltwater adventure with her friends. No Lauren story is complete without a bad accent and we have one of those for you too!

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Episode 140 Tom Latourelle & Fishing Vise-Cariously

Wed, 10 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We all know the old adage "If you want to get to know a guy, sit down over a Kinky Muddler"...we did just that with Tom Latourelle of Bespoke Bugs. A former custom furniture maker, Latourelle's background as a craftsman is evident in the design, shape, and movement of the flies that he creates for his clients. Tom was kind enough to invite us over to his house for a one-on-one glue sniffing session as he spins a technical baitfish patterns for Baja.

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Episode 139 TFR Video Series: Hopper Hooky

Wed, 03 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

In the premier of the TFR Video Series, we drop the kids at school, skip work, shirk household chores and set course for a local trout stream in hopes of extending the summer hopper season just one more day! Watch this on thefebruaryroom.com or subscribe to our YOUTUBE channel.

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Episode 138 Tributaries Mid River Crises

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Our first "vessel of freedom" was a used aluminum Willie boat dad bought off a guy in 1984. She served our family, friends, and clients for 30 years on adventures throughout the PNW. Between the gunnels, we tallied a catalog of euphoric experiences that spawned into lasting memories. However, the story of our old drift boat would've never been told had things gone just a little more sideways on her early voyages.

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Episode 137 Lydia & Deighan & Fly Girl Global

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Brace yourself for inspiration!!! Meet Lydia and Lil D from Fly Girl Global, a worldwide network of young ladies united by their love of fly fishing. These angler-advocates advance the sport via international zoom meetings to tie flies, swap fishing stories, and organize efforts to clean up waterways across the globe. Thanks to Fly Girl Global, flyfishing’s future is so bright, we gotta’ wear shades!

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Episode 136 Jason Brininstool & No Gimmicks Just Fishing

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Come March, a gathering of Missoula-based fishing guides resembles a scene from "Night of the Living Dead". Montana winters can grind a guide down, but Jason Brininstool has managed to keep a smile on his face. Jason flees for the tropics to work as a PADI Scuba Instructor or hosts trip to far flung destinations like Cuba and Columbia. Jason's positive attitude has attracted a cadre of loyal clients who trust him with adventures far beyond the rivers of Western Montana. This has made his off-season all the more interesting and one particular foray to Xcalak, Mexico formed a forever-memory and serves as a reminder to never judge a guide by their boat.

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Episode 135 Kyle Zempel & The Crash

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

The problem with this podcast, like working at Baskin Robbins, is that we're constantly being introduced to new flavors of fly fishing that we yearn to sample. When we first heard of "The Crash", our smallmouth senses began to tingle and we went straight to the source for insight into a remarkable feeding frenzy that occurs on Wisconsin's namesake river. Kyle Zempel of Black Earth Angling Co. abides and explains "The Crash" and other fishing opportunities that we now have to go add to our North Woods itinerary.

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Episode 134 Julia & Temma & Rising to the Fly

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

For many would-be female fly anglers, the pathway to the river is barricaded by dollar signs. The perception alone, that entry into fly fishing costs thousands in gear, inhibits many working moms, their children, and students from dipping into the budget to splurge on a new hobby. Enter Julia Mitchell and Temma Roby. These big-hearted friends founded "Rising to the Fly" in an effort to break this perception and remove the financial barrier to the sport. Whether in need of waders, rod, or a float tube, Rising to the Fly is a resource for all women who aspire to fly fish but can't justify the costs.

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Episode 133 Cooper & John & The Fly Fishing Film Tour

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Welcome to the big show! Host, Lauren Karnopp sits with the Fly Fishing Film Tour crew, Cooper Nash and John Zynda, at the historical Wilma Theatre. The three discuss life on the road, fishing adventures, why you shouldn't put out a campfire with diesel, and the inspirational films that will most likely hit a theatre near you. Grab your popcorn, sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

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Episode 132 Access Denied....Almost; The Saga of SB497

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

We grab a paddle and dig into the language and circumstances surrounding Senate Bill 497, which caused a bit of a riffle among the angling and public access crowd here in Montana. Co-captained by Jason Brininstool, fly fishing guide, David Brooks, Executive Director of Montana TU and Land Tawney, President of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, we’re led down a rocky run on a Class 5 case of modern Montana politics.

https://montanatu.org/legislature/

https://www.backcountryhunters.org/montana

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Episode 131 The Curious Case of Sargassum

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

We're not being facetious when we say that sargassum is a serious threat to our shallow seas and could factor into your spring break plans. So what is it? Sargassum is a naturally occurring algae, a seaweed, that serves valuable ecological functions. But, over a decade ago, it began to show up in unnatural ways and the problem is getting worse. This year sargassum showed up early and often along the beaches of the Riviera Maya from Cancun to Belize, and in Florida and the Bahamas. This January, 2023, has already set a record for all previous January months. Worse, the amount of sargassum waiting offshore at this time of year is four times that of normal. We take a deep dive into this growing environmental concern by interviewing citizens and scientists to determine how and why sargassum blooms are occurring, how this is affecting anglers and wildlife, and what the future might hold?

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Tributaries Short Stories- Second Chances

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Who among us hasn't lost a spectacular fish they wish they could have back? I can recall every vivid detail of every brief encounter, from the final leap of the steelhead that spat my fly from across the river to the largemouth that suspended in air, then hocked the diving frog like a loogie. As a young man exploring one of Central Oregon's notoriously challenging streams, the unexpected took me on a downstream sprint only to leave me defeated, out of breathe and pining for another crack at the fish of a lifetime. Will this be a story of redemption or another melancholy chapter in the ageless tale of the one that got away?

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Episode 130 Brian & Jon & Working Class Fishing

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Do you count yourself among the rank and file of weekend warriors? Are you more interested in how your fly or lure appears to the eyes of the fish than how your appearance is perceived by other anglers? Is fishing still a youthful enterprise that recalls the carefree days of bobbers, earthworms, and quality time with family and friends? If you answered "yes" to any or all of these questions, then lend an ear to the Working Class Fishing Podcast. We turn the tables on show hosts Jon Morris and Brian Keechle on a deep dive into an insightful and entertaining podcast based on the premise that fishing should be available to anyone and everyone.

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Episode 129 Nick Rinn & Fishing for Evidence

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

On August 21st, 2022, Nick Rinn was fishing for clues in California's Prosser Reservoir when his sonar device detected an anomaly. Rinn's macabre discovery would bring closure to the family of missing teenager Kiely Rodni...and change his life forever. It's been a wild ride for Nick, who in the span of a few days, went from anonymous electrician to national hero.

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Episode 128 Robert McConnell & Fly Fishing Houston & Southeastern Texas

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

While we're pretty sure that Houston won't be hosting the Fly Fishing World Championships anytime soon, you'd be surprised how many fishing opportunities there are in the "Bayou City." Author Robert McConnell explores the possibilities and provides the beta in his new guide book, Fly Fishing Houston and Southeastern Texas. Turns out, theres a bounty of fly rod challenge hiding in plain sight in the city's canals, backwaters, and streams...you just need to think outside the trout box.

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Episode 127 Andy Weiner & Reeling in Recovery

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Judging from the advertisements, alcohol and fly fishing go hand in hand. What's a proper lodge brochure or gear catalog without an image of the crew blowing the froth off a few at day's end? But here in the real world the party can lead to lifelong problems. Rather than acting as the catalyst, Reeling in Recovery maintains that flyfishing can be the inhibitor to drug and alcohol abuse. Board President Andy Weiner introduces this organization as a safe space for those struggling with dependency.

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Episode 126 Natalie Rhea & The Globe Trotting Storyteller

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000

On a rare interlude from globe-trotting, we tracked down filmmaker Natalie Rhea. This director, writer, producer, cinematographer, photographer and brand strategist captures the outdoor and western lifestyle for brands such as Swarovski, Tecovas, Traeger and Yeti, to name a few. But the creativity and work ethic doesn’t end there as we discover the lighter side of Rhea through her comedic and musical exploits.

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TFR Tributaries Short Stories- A Father's Gift

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000

My love for wildness, via adventures that have tested my mental and physical faculties, has blossomed throughout my life. Like a ponderosa pine, it begin as a seed, planted by my father, along the banks of one of the most challenging fisheries I have ever known. Though I somewhat resented it then, I’ve come to admire my dad’s approach. He never made the outdoors easy. I think he was trying to teach some life lessons and instill a philosophy. If fishing and hunting are a challenge, we’ll keep coming back for more and learn to appreciate all the aspects. Is there a better gift a parent can bestow to their children?

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Episode 125 Brett Edstrom & The Dastardly Deeds of Influencers

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Brett Edstrom and his buddies arrived at the landing to discover an unusually high concentration of out-of-state plates. Turns out, this entourage was lead by a prominent figure in the world of social media. Downriver, Edstrom bore witness to a poor display of fish handling in favor of potential "likes". Though there was no law prohibiting their methods, the court of public opinion would likely have ruled against them. Rather than act as judge, jury, or executioner, Brett and friends extended an olive branch when the crew came under duress but walked away with a bad taste in their mouths.

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TFR Short Stories Tributaries- Alaska on the Swing

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Introducing "Tributaries", a series of snippets from our most memorable outdoor adventures, narrated by our hosts. Every so often, the universe abides and bestows anglers who wade forth with a transcendent experience. When the morning began with a Don Williams lick on a Homer radio station, our spidey senses began to tingle. What followed was a day on an Alaskan River that we certainly didn't expect and that can never be duplicated.

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Episode 124 Dan Crockett & The Near Death Chronicles

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Montana attracts her fair share of midwesterners. Those adventurous souls who crave a little more wildness and ruggedness than the flatlands have to offer in the long term. In his early twenties, Dan Crockett left Kansas for the rivers of Colorado, eventually carving out a niche for himself as a conservation-based writer in Missoula. 33 years later, Crockett is retiring from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and his position as editor of Bugle. Before, after, and during those three decades, Dan skirted peril on multiple hunts, excursions and fronts.

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Episode 123 Scott Carver & OnWater

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0000

A parent's worst nightmare nearly came true for Scott Carver, inspiring him to reevaluate river safety. Specifically, the resources available to river users relative to location, weather, and stream flows. The end result from this aha moment was the On Water App, a comprehensive platform of all river data of interest to anglers, boaters, paddlers, and river users. With the launch of this app, the days of drawing directions to secluded boat ramps on bar napkin may well be over.

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Episode 122 Mike Barber & The Guide, The Musician, The Golfer & The Legend

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Trumpeter-turned fly fishing guide-turned golf professional, Mike Barber, dives deep into the abyss to recover a few pearls for this long-overdue discussion. The stories flow like grog in a steelhead camp as Barber recants adventures in guiding on the rivers of Oregon and touring with a fly rod and a funk band. Mike graciously lends his services as a facts-checker to our podcast, to set the record straight on a few past discrepancies.

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Episode 121 Chris Dombrowski & The River You Touch

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Author Chris Dombrowski is at it again, sharing the firsthand perspective of a seasoned river guide in his unique, poetic style. Dombrowski's latest release, "The River You Touch", has been described as "a love song to the rivers of Montana." We're such big fans of this love song that we invited Chris back on to discuss his new book and reflect on the challenges and rewards of fatherhood and life in Montana. As Jim Harrison said, "in a life properly lived, you're a river", and Dombrowski seems intent on heeding this suggestion.

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Episode 120 John R Childress & Fly Fishing for Leadership

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

“Can you learn fundamental leadership principles through fly fishing”? Authors John Childress and Christian Bacasa tapped notable figureheads in the fly fishing industry to answer this question, and discovered a resounding, “YES”! The end result, “Fly Fishing for Leadership”, is a book that interweaves lessons learned on the water with business, government, and everyday life. Childress explains the motivation for this volume and highlights the importance of choosing great partners in life and in fishing.

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Episode 119 Dan Soltau & Dirty Water Fly Company

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

We are currently in a renaissance period in terms of fly design. Fly tyers are advancing the balance between fly movement and castability. This is particularly true for streamer patterns, resulting in a higher percentage of hookups on those really hard to come by fish like big browns and muskies. Dan Soltau is one such fly innovator and the name of his shop, the Dirty Water Fly Company, smells like the pursuit of big fish.

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Episode 118 Brett Wedeking & Tailout Anglers

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Guide Brett Wedeking was staring at the familiar problem of “how to check off my fly fishing life-list”. So, he formulated a solution that began on his home waters of Puget Sound, establishing a loyal client base. Then he formed relationships with some of the world’s premier lodges and outfitters. Now Brett’s business, Tailout Anglers, hosts adventures across the globe. It’ not as easy as it sounds but all things are possible at the intersection of hard work and luck…just pray there’s not an elk standing there.

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Episode 117 Ray Penny & G&H Decoys Inc

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

An unconventional upbringing, including stints in Argentina and Venezuela, set Ray Penny on the path to a life of adventure and service. Following a career in the fly fishing industry, Penny joined the Marines, and returned to civilian life looking for his next mission. That turned out to be the resurrection of G&H Decoys, the last of the American-made manufacturers. A father of six, family comes first, and with kin in Puerto Rico, Ray is able to visit relatives and pursue his passion for tarpon via kayak and fly rod.

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Episode 116 Brandon Dale & Angling in the Big Apple

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Little did we know that fly fishing is a thing in downtown Manhattan? Die-hard urbanite and medical student, Brandon Dale, educates us on the target-rich bodies of water in Central Park. Dale, a lifelong outdoors enthusiast and PHD candidate, manages to find the time to work with his local chapters of BHA, TU, and Hunters of Color. "Ambitious" seems to be the best word to describe Brandon, whether solving the riddle of finicky carp or competing in the ultimate fly fishing scavenger hunt.

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Episode 115 Neil Cote & All You Ever Wanted to Know About Pike

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

At what temperature do pike spawn? Which fly lines should I use throughout the year? Could removing a large pike from a trout fishery have a contradictory effect? These are some of the questions that have been weighing on our minds, and Neil Cote, owner of Bite Me Flies, answered them without us even asking. Cote provides a wealth of insider information on the pursuit of pike, gathered over a lifetime spent exploring waters throughout the Northern Rockies.

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Episode 114 Mollie Simpkins & Guide Relief & Outdoor Guide Assoc

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 12:55:00 -0000

Pandemics, climate change, cancellations and inflation... like all other working professionals, outdoor guides are navigating the roughest waters ever. Fortunately, there are resources for hard-working guides and outfitters struggling to stay afloat. Molly Simpkins, Executive Director of the Guide Relief Program and Outdoor Guide Association, provides a throw bag for gillies from coast-to-coast.

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Episode 113 Chris McAdams & Fishing with a Football Hall of Famer

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

A 20-year guide career culminated with a gridiron legend awaiting pickup at the local Missoula hotel, bottle of vino in-hand. From there, Chris McAdams figured he'd reached the pinnacle, hung up his lanyard and agreed to a position as a sales representative with NRS-manufacturers of premium inflatable boats and gear for whitewater and fishing enthusiasts. Dream job? You bet, and nobody deserves it more than this hard-working angler and talented photographer.

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Episode 112 Heather Barber & Alex Ocañas & The Bitter Root Water Forum

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

The Bitterroot River is one of the country's premiere fisheries and the lifeblood of one of Montana's most picturesque valleys. A rich tradition of agriculture, community, and recreation all rely on clear, clean flows and a healthy riparian area. The Bitter Root Water Forum is dedicated to restoring private and public lands to enhance habitat throughout the watershed and continue the legacy of responsible multi-use.

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Episode 111 Nick Halle & The Great Pike vs Trout Debate

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Raised by Mainers with a nose for outdoor mishap, Nick Halle managed to survive his hazardous upbringing and find his footing in Montana. Halle now serves as Trout Unlimited's Volunteer Operation's Coordinator and part-time fly fishing guide, a career split that equates to a considerable amount of time on the water and access to the latest fisheries research. As such, Nick is well qualified to opine on the relationship between pike and trout in the rivers of Western Montana.

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Episode 110 Nick Northern & Tim Homa & Chasing Tides

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

We like to think of outdoor recreation as an investment in our own well-being. The guys at Chasing Tides act as sort of account advisors. In order to maximize profits, this crew of watermen advises on products they've found to make access to the outdoors more efficient for professionals and parents. The inspiration for this venture was their own backyard, the diverse fisheries of Virginia that provide salt, streams, and solace from the daily grind.

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Episode 109 Chad Pavlick & Yellowstone Country

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

June 2022 came down heavy on the Yellowstone Country. A perfect storm of environmental conditions resulted in historic flooding and devastating property loss. The community of Red Lodge, hometown of guide/outfitter Chad Pavlick, was particularly hard hit by the raging torrent. Pavlick shares perspective on his own backyard, a region forever altered by the "500 Year Flood".

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Episode 108 John Herzer Bears, Crocs, Cougars, & Fishing

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

The days in the lives of fly fishing guides tend to bleed together and not until they sit down and ruminate do the juices begin to flow. Take John Herzer, owner of Blackfoot River Outfitters in Missoula, Montana. Herzer swore up and down that he didn't have any interesting stories to tell from his thirty-plus years as a river guide and impassioned backcountry hunter, but once we cornered him, John conjured a treasure trove of adventures from field and stream.

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Episode 107 Eric Einsphar & The Cornhusker Fly Fishers

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Nebraska is mostly known for option football and unfettered fanaticism. Beyond the grid iron, the Cornhusker Fly Fishers fanatically explore the diverse angling options available across the Midwest region. As a U of N employee, Eric Einspahr bleeds Husker Red and devotes countless hours to his beloved Lincoln-based fly fishing club. Einspahr pursues the Nebraska Trout Slam and shares a sidesplitting casting mishap that occurred in a U of N gymnasium.

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Episode 106 Jess Westbrook & Rebecca Granillo & The Mayfly Project

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Children in the foster program cope with innumerable challenges and difficult upbringings. The Mayfly Project is dedicated to providing these kids respite from the stressors of their daily lives by introducing them to fly fishing. Executive Director Jess Westbrook and Lead Mentor Rebecca Granillo have been instrumental in growing the Mayfly Project into a nationwide organization aimed at developing lifelong fly enthusiasts.

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Episode 105 Mike Beagle & The Forgotten Film

Tue, 24 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

When Mike Beagle and friends realized that the old-growth headwaters of Southern Oregon's Elk River were not under full federal protection, they enlisted the services of a local coalition of foresters and fisher-people. The end-game was the designation of the Copper Salmon Wilderness and the protection of critical spawning grounds for the river's wild salmon and steelhead. As if this feat of conservation-strength weren't enough, Mike was one of the founding members of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers...just don't ask him to take a photo of your catch.

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Episode 104 Brandon Dwyer & The Boat Ramp Pyrotechnics

Tue, 17 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

This bachelor party took place a long way from Sin City, but the riverbank lit up like the Strip as Brandon Dwyer and friends approached the boat ramp with trepidation....unpredictability is inherent in adventures in wild places but Dwyer will assume the risk for the "opportunity for a singular focus". When he's not focused on family and career, the Montana native devotes his remaining time to the Westslope Chapter of TU, a legion of volunteers at work enhancing and protecting Southwest Montana's precious coldwater fisheries.

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Episode 103 Will Stewart & Brazos on the Fly

Tue, 10 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Throughout Texas, inconspicuous fisheries attract a growing legion of flyrodders. Recognizing this trend, school teacher William Stewart, owner/operator of Brazos on the Fly, decided to dip his toe into the guiding waters. From his first full year in business, Stewart attracted local clientele and introduced them to the joys of casting flies to the river's bass, carp, and panfish. Will introduces us to the Brazos and a local narrative that became an engrossing book and flew equally under the radar.

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Episode 102 Clint Whitley & Paddlefish & Boats

Tue, 03 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

We're fans of budget boats around here and found a kindred soul in Clint Whitley from the Western Hunting Hub podcast. Whitley is no stranger to the rain and shares some valuable insight into old boat and motor maintenance and repair. Despite his best efforts, his maiden voyage wasn't without its hiccups. Fortunately, no boat needed to pursue an ancient fish near his South Dakota home prized for its flesh and eggs.

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Episode 101 Kirk Marks & Flavor on the Fly

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Does your fish taste "fishy"? Well, it should, its fish after all, but Kirk Marks knows just how to accentuate that delicious natural flavor. As Author of "Flavor on the Fly" for Flylords Mag, Kirk shares his culinary knowledge and cooks up some grand angling adventures. If you've never had a properly-prepared red drum throat, then you're missing out one of the best crab substitutes at a time when the market price for shellfish is at a record high.

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Episode 100 The Karnopps & The Scoop on Outdoor Television

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

The Hollywood A-listers declined, so for our 100th episode, we looked across the studio and began reminiscing on the glory days of our respective careers in outdoor television. Lauren's duties included midnight dungeon logging, while Justin strapped a device resembling a medieval torture device to his chest in the name of crystal-clear audio. We saw plenty of the good, bad, and ugly in our years as editors/producers, but worked with plenty of talented people that have remained lifelong friends...wouldn't change a thing!

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Episode 99 Abe Blair & The Lens for Landscape

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Sierra-based angler, Abe Blair has carved out a pretty nice little niche for himself. His vast river guiding experience, coupled with his renowned ability to capture landscape and wildlife, has taken him around the globe toting rod, reel, and camera. Blair is a partner in a gallery in Lake Tahoe, where his eye for color, light, and nature is on full display. And oh yeah, he's the co-host of a fly fishing TV show as well.

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Episode 98 Dax Messett & The One Time He Went to Mexico and "Lost" his Wallet

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

As anglers, most of us would do anything for the chance to catch a fish of a lifetime, even if that means going to a country by ourselves and following a guide into an isolated jungle. Our ambition to catch that "notorious" fish can make us blind to the potential dangers around us. Steelhead guide, Dax Messett is no exception to that. Although Dax has aspirations to catch fish around the world, his true passion is to swing the fly for steelhead in his hometown of Medford, Oregon.

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Episode 97 John Smigaj & Trxstle

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

There's a fella' in Helena who once lassoed a fish in Alaska. He followed this feat with an improbable stunt involving a bull trout in Montana. His name is John Smigaj and no, he's not the fly fishing version of Evil Kneivel, but the CEO and Co-Founder of Trxstle, a designer and manufacturer of innovative outdoor gear and apparel for fly anglers and mountain bikers.

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Episode 96 Katie Fiedler Anderson & "Phoenix"

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Imagine working your way up in a highly competitive field, only to be handed your walking papers after becoming a parent? As a new mother, this was reality for fishing guide Katie Fiedler Anderson. Rather than lament this rejection, she turned obstacle into opportunity and launched her own business alongside her husband, Cooper. Katie's approach to the everyday challenges of working mom's serves as inspiration and her story is showcased in a highly-acclaimed documentary making the rounds on the Fly Fishing Film Tour.

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Episode 95 Tim Landwehr & Tight Lines Fly Fishing Co Turns 21

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Tim Landwehr describes fly fishing as "a lifelong sport with an incredible community". Through his 21 years as owner of Tight Lines Fly Fishing CO in De Pere, Wisconsin, Tim has learned many facets of this endless pursuit and weathered storms alongside his loyal clientele with whom he has shared his home waters and hosted many adventures in the Amazonian jungle. After 21 years in the industry, Tim is finally of age and ready to party-Cheers!

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Episode 94 Alex Dietz & The Record Whitefish

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

To some, the Mountain Whitefish may fall shy as a coveted individual species to hold in the annals of fishing record books but consider the number of whitefish that have been caught by fly anglers and this title resides in rarified air. On December 19th, 2021, Alex Dietz of Bend, Oregon, was fishing on the Deschutes River when he hooked a 5-pound, 12-ounce, 24-inch long mountain whitefish with a 14-inch girth that broke the state record.

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Episode 93 KynsLee Scott & The Steward of all Things Fishy

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Never underestimate the person rowing your boat. In the case of Kynslee Scott, this idiom rings particularly true. This 6th generation-Montanan has more on her plate than an ultra-marathon competitor at the Golden Corral. In addition to her hard-earned position as one of Western Montana’s most sought-after fishing guides, Kynslee works for two Montana-based water resource groups and co-founded the Guide Relief Program in 2020.

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Episode 92 Michael Reid & The Painting

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

We take a detour from our fishing story-centric format and invite Michael Reid back on the podcast (Episode 48) to discuss his new book, "The Painting". Michael's book chronicles the life of Roberto Ramos, a fisherman, athlete, and art aficionado who sought freedom from Cuba and the oppression of the Castro regime in the late 20th century.

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Episode 91 Tom Rowland & Pushups for Clean Water

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Drop and give me 10,000! That’s exactly what our guest, Tom Rowland, is asking us to do. Tom’s 10,000 Pushup Challenge exists to raise awareness of the water issues plaguing Florida and the Everglades. While we had the ear of the host of the Saltwater Experience, we gathered some insight on snook fishing, distance casting, and how to handle a thirteen foot hammerhead shark.

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Episode 90 Jess Tuchscherer & The Pilgrimage to Pyramid Lake

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Where does a high school teacher from Jackson Hole go to spend spring break? Cancun? Havasu? Palm Springs? Not Jess Tuchscherer, he layers up, sleeps in the truck, and casts all day hoping to tie into a legendary Lahontan cutthroat in Nevada's Pyramid Lake. This bonafide trout bum and whitetwater guide has been a fishing buddy for many years-he's one of those guys that will share his tent and warm Labrador with you when you under-packed for a river trip.

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Episode 89 Stu Neville & The Fish of 10,000 Casts

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In a region near-and-dear to our hearts, sits a fly shop and guide service. Here, memories are made for anglers the world-over. The Hayward Fly Fishing Company has been at the forefront of techniques and tackle for pursuit of the ultimate freshwater gamefish, musky, since 2004. Longtime guide and new proprietor, Stu Neville, shares some of his most memorable musky moments and reveals his affinity for another resident widely considered to be the hardest-fighting freshwater quarry.

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Episode 88 Tim Linehan & The Mighty Kootenai River

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Fed by innumerous tributaries from the surrounding Cabinet, Flathead, Rocky and Selkirk mountains, the mighty Kootenai River bores its way through mountainous terrain in Northwest Montana. For nearly 30 years, Tim and Joanne Linehan have been exploring this massive watershed and providing premium fly fishing and hunting excursions to their clientele. This country teems with adventure and Tim shares some memorable experiences as one of Montana’s most renowned guide/outfitters.

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Episode 87 Matt Nonnenmann & An Evening in an Outhouse

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this version of the classic, holiday movie, "Home Alone", our protagonist is forgotten at a remote Canadian Lake, sleeps in an outhouse, and manages to survive on fish. They say that "attitude is the difference between ordeal and adventure", and for Matt Nonnenmann, coping with adversity was just part of the adventure on his childhood excursions to the Great White North.

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Episode 86 Mark Wackler & Guide Save The Kings

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0000

On May 17, 1985, Les Anderson of Soldotna, AK landed a 97-pound king salmon from the Kenai River, cementing the all-tackle world record. At the time, it came as no surprise that this prolific fishery produced such a behemoth. However, returns of king salmon have been on the decline for many years, causing guides and anglers to rethink their approach. Mark Wackler of AK Fishology has been at the forefront of king salmon conservation and was one of the first guides to embrace a catch-and-release ethos for king salmon on his home river.

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Episode 85 Rachel Andras & Fishing For Health

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Rachel Andras has spent the better part of two decades in various facets of the fly fishing industry. Andras’ skills with a fly rod notwithstanding, this FFF certified casting instructor’s greatest impact on the sport has come via her infectious personality. Rachel has touched many lives through guiding, international outfitting, and life coaching. Her business, Andras Wellness, helps others create lasting healthy habits and empowers them to become a dominant force in their lives. She also has a flat named after her in French Polynesia, and we can’t wait to hear this story!

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Episode 84 Bill Pfeiffer & The Day The Madison Dropped

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

December 1, 2021 was a most unusual day. Throughout Montana, record high temperatures were eclipsed by double-digits and the state’s most-storied trout fishery, the Madison River, slowed to a trickle. So, just what the hell happened at Hebgen Dam? Billy Pfeiffer, TU Montana’s Outreach Coordinator, was at ground zero “The Day the Madison Nearly Dried.” Pfeiffer gets down to the brass tacks regarding the dam malfunction and the ensuing community effort to save stranded fish.

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Episode 83 Scott Nechay & The Guide, Chef, & Storyteller

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Behemoth browns rarely dole out second chances but in a rare display of recurrence, guide Scott Nechay fed a mammoth fish in the exact same spot on four consecutive days. On another less- awesome occasion, a hothead client, in a fit of fly fishing-induced rage, smashed Scott's high modulus rod and was sent packing. One thing about guiding-its always interesting, and Chef Nechay makes his days all the more so by preparing first class meals for his guests on rivers across Montana and Wyoming.

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Episode 82 Scott Crosby & The Art of Flies & Lures

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Steelhead anglers tend to be obsessive. Case in point, Oregon fisherman, Scott Crosby. Scott has been a student of fly design since he first moved to the south coast's hallowed rivers over 15 years ago. Crosby's search for the right composition and proportion of materials is an endless one. He shares some valuable insight, including a game-changing twist on one of the most popular winter steelhead fly patterns.

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Episode 81 Nordquist Brothers & The Train Crash & The Broken Bone

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

The family that plays together stays together. Just ask the The Nordquists. Three generations of this fishy outfit congregate annually on rivers and streams to reconnect and after 20-plus years, the Nordquists have collected a treasure chest of memories, good and well…? Erick and John Nordquist are the clan safe keepers and open up the vault to our host, recalling broken legs, rattlesnakes, and that time a train fell into the river.

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Episode 80 Miree Lee & The Work-Life Balance

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

As owner of a consulting firm and the mother of a 4-year old, life comes at Miree Lee from all angles. She deflects these stressors by retreating to the river or flat, often by herself, and immersing her entire being in the fly fishing experience. This Florida angler has traveled extensively throughout her 40-year obsession, competing in multiple tarpon tournaments, and plucking monstrous bonefish from the finicky waters of the Pacific. It all began on forays with her late father who taught her to find respite from the hectic world of deadlines and disruptions via the rod and reel.

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Episode 79 Mark Hieronymus & The Salmon Forest

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

The nation’s largest national forest, Alaska’s Tongass is an ecological wonderland fed by nutrients from the Pacific. The transporters for this bounty of forest fertilizer are the annual runs of nearly 50 million salmon which spawn in the region, earning the Tongass the affectionate nickname, “The Salmon Forest”. In order to fully understand the relationship between fish and forest, accurate data on the 17,000 miles of streams is necessary. Enter Mark Hieronymus, Trout Unlimited’s Community Science Coordinator and longtime Alaska guide, who has devoted much of his time and effort to observing and documenting these runs of anadromous fish.

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Episode 78 Jon Morris & The Fly Fishing Hustler

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0000

A $49 fly rod combo opened the door to a whole new world for Texas bass angler, Jon Morris. Upon return from active duty, Morris was somewhat adrift, and stumbled upon fly fishing at this pivotal point in his life. Within a year, Jon would be consumed by the sport, tying flies commercially, attaining his guide license, launching a fishing podcast, and pursuing the state gar on-the-fly record.

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Episode 77 Tim Quinton & Life On the High Seas

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

You never know who is going to end up in your guide boat? When we had the pleasure of fishing with Tim Quinton, we invited him to join us on the podcast. To say Quinton has led a rather adventurous life would be a monumental understatement. A former “Coastie”, Tim was aboard several vessels featured on “Deadliest Catch” while stationed in the salmon fishing hub of Kodiak, Alaska. He’s sailed with the US Navy on missions to the Middle East and worked in the Pentagon. As it turns out, we had crossed paths before while he was working as a guide on Oregon’s Deschutes River.

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Episode 76 Vince Bryan & Whooshh

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

There are an estimated 84,000 dams across the country that serve a variety of purposes, from hydropower to flood control. Dams also serve as barriers to passage for native fish species, while creating habitat for illegally introduced and invasive fish. Our indigenous fish populations need our help. Enter Whooshh Innovations, a Seattle-based company with a high-tech solution to the fish passage problem. From the folks that brought us the “Salmon Cannon”, Vince Bryan, CEO, introduces the “Whooshh Passage Portal.”

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Episode 75 Ryan King & The Misunderstood Gar

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Curious about gar? We were, so we tapped one of the leading authorities on this prehistoric apex predator. Aggressively hunted by bow fishers and mistreated by some anglers, the gar can’t seem to get any respect, but Dr. Ryan King serves as an advocate for this misunderstood group of species. A Professor of Biology and Director of Aquatic Ecology at Baylor University, King’s career path began following his first fly fishing experience on Oregon’s Deschutes River. King holds the Texas catch and release flyrod records for longnose (59", length only) and alligator (40.7 lbs) gars.

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Episode 74 Chris Hanson & The Day I Disremembered

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Who hasn’t left a fly box in a buddy’s boat or forgotten where we stashed our sink tips? But what if you spontaneously forgot where, and with whom, you were just fishing? Chris Hanson experienced such an event, clinically known as ‘transient global amnesia’. A passionate fly angler, Hanson shares his bizarre experience and the aftermath, which inspired him to produce the acclaimed documentary, “The Day I Disremembered”.

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Episode 73 Will Blair and Adventures in Untamed Russia

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

If your dream of fishing for rainbows in Russia has taken you down a Google-rabbit hole, you’ve likely encountered the name, “Will Blair”. Blair is an American pioneer of Kamchatka trout fishing, operating remote outfitting businesses in Russia since the 1990’s. If explorations of uncharted trout streams via Russian military helicopters weren’t enough, Will’s penchant for fly fishing solitude has led him to the remote reaches of the Bahamian islands with his latest venture.

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Episode 72 Chris Taylor & Exploring Your Own Backyard

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Adventure is all around us. Just ask Chris Taylor. Once Taylor decided to really explore the waters surrounding his hometown, he discovered a treasure trove of flyfishing opportunities right under his nose; carp, pike, shad, goliath trout, to name a few. Colorado Springs offers up all the menu options this fly fishing version of a localvore can chew. Chris inspires us to take a closer look at the back forty and shares the most memorable experiences drawn from exploring his home waters, like the time he knocked a very surprised animal out of the air with a streamer pattern.

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Episode 71 Josh Mills & The Stewards of Steelhead

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Steelhead returns in the Columbia Basin are the lowest ever recorded resulting in unprecedented fishing closures on some of the most hallowed waters in fly fishing. The fate of a bellwether species of incalculable cultural, financial, and environmental importance hangs in the balance. Now more than ever, these fish need advocates, like Josh Mills. As a Board Member of the Wild Steelhead Coalition and Development Coordinator for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Josh is deeply engaged in the fight to save these enigmatic fish. After all, steelhead are responsible for cherished memories with his mega-fishy dad. Mills dives deep into the steelhead life cycle and shares a behavior that we've never heard before.

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Episode 70 Rick Nyles and the Arboreal Brown Trout

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Pennsylvania makes the short list of the country's best fishing states. From legendary trout streams like the Delaware, Letort Run, and Spring Creek, to fabled smallmouth fisheries such as the Susquehanna, PA offers something for everyone. For a full-frontal assessment of angling opportunities in the Keystone State, we tap into the experience and expertise of Rick Nyles, owner of Skyblue Outfitters. Since 1999, Rick and his staff of elite guides have provided services across the state...so you can bet your bippy he has some fishing stories to share.

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Episode 69 Derek Young & The Soiled Station Wagon

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

What is a V Lam and a Shoal Cut? We've always wondered what these terms actually mean in association with our favorite oars and Derek Young is the guy to ask. As Northern US Territory Manager for Sawyer Oars, Derek answers these questions and shares his many years of experience working with this Oregon-based oar and paddle manufacturing company. A lifelong river enthusiast, Derek relates the time that the Young family arrived at the takeout to discover a mystery couple walking the banks naked, but that wasn't the biggest surprise...

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Episode 68 Don Rogers & Fly: Angling x Art

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 06:00:00 -0000

You can't swing a dead cat in the Murray Bar in Livingston, Montana without hitting a fly fishing guide or an artist. The odds of even taking out two proverbial birds with one feline are pretty good, as many local ghillies row by day and paint by night. Don Rogers, a former "knot-untangler" himself, saw the obvious need for a retail venue featuring unique wares created by local craftsmen and opened up a pop-up shop in downtown Livingston. On the heels of a drought-stricken fishing season in Montana, Don relates a trip to the Yucatan with an unbelievable outcome.

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Episode 67 Ed Anderson & The Madness of Fly Fishing

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0000

On a seemingly doomed trip to the Yucatan, Ed Anderson experienced his own version of "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles", culminating in a sudden storm that capsized the panga fleet. The past couple of years in this country have been a similar dumpster fire, inspiring this McCall, Idaho-based contemporary fine artist to create his own version of "Americanism". There is nary a dull moment in the life of a mountain trout guide and avid saltwater fly angler, and Ed shares many of his adventures/mis-adventures from behind the oars and atop the poling platform.

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Episode 66 Casey Hackathorn & The Clark Fork Conundrum

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

The Upper Clark Fork watershed has been on the receiving end of mining activities in Butte for a generation and a huge effort has been underway to return this river to the pristine trout stream that it once was, and could be again. Casey Hackathorn is the Upper Clark Fork Program Manager for Trout Unlimited, and he and many others are dedicated to the restoration of coldwater habitat within one of the country’s largest Superfund sites.

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Episode 65 Max Kelsey & The Bemidji Maker

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

With his world spinning out of control, Max Kelsey channeled his emotions into a fly box he dubbed, "The Box of Pain". The flies, created during his darkest days of separation and alcohol use, were born of loneliness, depression, and despair, but blossomed into a feathery collection of hope. These flies helped Max to "Be the Bug" and this mantra became his rallying cry in the march towards a better life. Through fly fishing and fatherhood, Max, a craftsman and bluegill fanatic from Bemidji, MN, now embraces a sober lifestyle and bravely shares his arduous journey.

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Episode 64 Tom Johanson & The Southern Bluefin Tuna

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Learning to cast cack-handed is pretty easy, you simply start out that way. Just ask Tom Johanson. This Kiwi adventure-angler suffered a shoulder injury prior to his initial introduction to river fly fishing and did what any teenage "fisho" would do, learned to throw southpaw. Now many years removed from that pitfall, Tom is all healed up and hard at it, designing, testing, and re-testing gear for the family business, Composite Developments. Tom spits some serious local knowledge on the endless fishing opportunities available in his homeland, the genesis of a rod brand that revolutionized fishing travel, and the time he took advantage of his buddy's hangovers to catch a mega gamefish.

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Episode 63 Jesse Colten & The Xflats

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0000

The dream of many fly fishing guides, hell, of, is to winter in the Caribbean and summer in Rockies. Vail, Colorado-based guide, Jesse Colten, came to the village of Xcalak, Mexico for the permit fishing, but stayed for the hospitality. Jesse now the owner of The Xflats, a lodge and guide service specializing in flats fishing adventures.

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Episode 62 Damien Nurre & The Breakfast Grand Slam

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

In terms of allure, steelhead and permit rank atop the list for many of the most hopelessly-addicted fishing bums; these two species have ruined many a promising career. The trick is, to mold a job and lifestyle around the pursuit, and Damien Nurre has excelled at this! Following a long stint as a guide/outfitter on Oregon's legendary Deschutes, Nurre's foray into the realm of saltwater fly fishing got off to an auspicious start, when he landed a two permit-Grand Slam before lunch. Now firmly rooted as the manager of the legendary Blue Horizon Lodge, Damien has set his sights on a new and lofty goal-to spend an entire year in his flip flops.

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Episode 61 John Maclean & Home Waters

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Western Montana is steeped in fly fishing history and at the epicenter lies the Maclean family, of “A River Runs Through It Fame”. John Maclean, son of Norman, is an accomplished author in his own right and relates the inspiration for this latest book. What began as a recount of a tangle with a monumental rainbow trout morphed into a book, and “Home Waters” was born. John shares his own insight into a childhood spent at a cherished family cabin and the Blackfoot River that is forever linked to his family’s history.

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Episode 60 Jason Shreder & Adventures in Whitewater

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

What would you do if you went in above your waders on a swift creek? How about if someone fell out of your boat in the tailout above a Class IV rapid? What is a Class IV rapid? We ask all of these questions of Jason Shreder, owner of Missoula-based whitewater business, Zootown Surfers. Shreder has boated many of the country's more dangerous and exciting rivers, and traveled the globe seeking watery adventure. Jason also happens to be a fly angler who "flogged" his way into 24 steelhead on a trip to Alaska!

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Episode 59 Brad Staples & The Four Decade Odyssey

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Steelhead guide and international booking agent, Brad Staples, shares his global adventures and perspective on guiding over his four decade-career in the fishing industry. When not operating his jet boat guide service on the Lower Deschutes during the summer steelhead season, Brad spends his "off-season" hosting expeditions for peacock bass in the Amazon jungle, golden dorado in Argentina, GT's/bonefish in Christmas Island, and tarpon in the Yucatan as a booking agent for Fishing with Larry. Talk about a wealth of knowledge!

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Episode 58 Karlie Roland & The Permit Trip of a Lifetime

Tue, 25 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Karlie Roland landed FOUR of the notoriously difficult "Black-Tailed Devils", aka permit, on a recent trip to the Yucatan. Prior to that, on a foray to Christmas Island, her return flight never showed, extending the fishing adventure a full week and resulting in her first GT. Karlie makes her living on the very stream where she first learned to fly fish, and maybe the Fish Gods respect that? She has certainly swung the pendulum in her favor by paying her dues in the fly fishing industry, working in several fly shops en route to becoming the first female guide for TroutHunter Lodge on Idaho's famed Henry's Fork.

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Episode 57 Rachel Schmidt & The Twelve Tattoos

Tue, 18 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

You've seen them on dashboards, visors, in boat trays and shadow boxes...those significant flies responsible for an angler's most memorable fish. But a torso? That's how Rachel Schmidt rolls, with 12 fly patterns (and counting) tattooed on her back. That's just the kind of mentality you like to see in a champion for public lands and waters. Rachel has held many positions in the outdoor industry and as BHA's Director of Innovative Alliances, she continues to work for the values that her Grandfather bestowed on her in the Montana backcountry.

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Episode 56 Sam Lungren & The Musings of MeatEater's Fishing Editor

Tue, 11 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Meateater Fishing Editor, Sam Lungren, was reared in the watery wonderland of Puget Sound. A childhood spent pursuing salmon, steelhead, and ling cod blossomed into a lifestyle centered around the outdoors and a career in outdoor media. Now a Montana resident, Sam still has salt in his veins and shares some of his recent adventures pursuing bonefish, tarpon, and those pesky permit in Belize. As an outdoor journalist, Sam has intimate knowledge of many issues concerning sportsmen, including the latest proposal to remove the dams on Idaho's Snake River before runs of native anadromous fish disappear.

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Episode 55 Peg Miskin and Cast One for Hope

Tue, 04 May 2021 07:00:00 -0000

As the only female angler at a legendary permit lodge in the Yucatan, Peg Miskin showed the fellas "how it was done" by landing not one, but two, permit on her first attempt at this notoriously difficult species. Perhaps her instant success was simply a matter of karma? If anyone has built up a reservoir of positive energy, its Peg. As the Event Manager of Cast One for Hope, Miskin devotes her time to organizing the flagship fundraising event for Casting for Recovery. CFR's mission is to enhance the lives of women with breast cancer by connecting them to each other and nature through the therapeutic sport of fly fishing.

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Episode 54 Jason Lieverst & Master Nymph

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Brady, Jordan, Woods...Lieverst? While the latter may not have a shoe deal, in the world of competitive fly fishing, Jason Lieverst has reached the apex of his game, serving as captain of two international teams during his prestigious career. Jason shares insight into the realm of "Czech" nymphing (which, we'll find out, may have originated in a different European nation.) As the co-proprietor of Master Nymph (rods), Nymphmaster (fly tying materials) and Master Nymph Academy, Lieverst is dedicated to fine-tuning the art of Euro-nymphing and sharing his deep knowledge with fellow anglers.

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Episode 53 Jake Chutz & Montana Fly Company

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Tucked away in a sleepy town near Glacier National Park is one of the industry's leading distributors of commercially tied fly patterns, Montana Fly Company. Fly shops and anglers the world over have come to rely on MFC's ingenuity, creativity, consistency, and quality. National Sales Manager, Jake Chutz, is an integral part of the operation and like most MFC employees, got his start as a fishing guide. Jake shares his trials and tribulations from Montana to Tierra Del Fuego, like the time he nearly knocked himself unconscious with an errant cast.

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Episode 52 Paula Shearer & PS on the Fly & The Great Far North

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Though it is often referred to as the "Quiet Sport", flyfishing tends to attract athletes and competitors. Canadian guide, Paula Shearer, is a former hockey player and skeleton racer who has dedicated herself to angling, and become one of the most sought-after guides in Alberta and a member of Team Rio. Paula shares her close calls with the apex predators of the Northern Rockies, both terrestrial and aquatic, and the time she received frightening news from the real world while on a saltwater fishing adventure in Cuba.

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Episode 51 Travis Craft & One fish, Two fish, Three fish, Sheefish

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

On a busman's holiday, Montana Outfitter and Avalanche Specialist, Travis Craft, ventured to the Arctic Circle in pursuit of the "Tarpon of the North". Relying on what little river beta he and his cronies could dig up, the crew navigated unfamiliar waters and lived to tell the tales of monster sheefish, mouse-eating grayling, and a bush pilot who wouldn't say boo.

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Episode 50 Ron Kaye & The Lightning on the Water

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

What do Kenny G, Motley Crue, Devo, and a 1000 days of angling have in common? Answer....Ron Kaye! The dirt on this former music agent is a newfound infatuation with life-on-the-fly. Ron's adventures took him from Argentina to Tasmania in his quest to fish for a thousand days, a goal that was nearly cut short when "Mr. K" had a close shave with a lighting bolt on a Central Oregon lake.

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Episode 49 Zack Williams & Swing the Fly

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0000

"To fish or not to fish? That is the question weighing heavily on the mind of Zack Williams, magazine editor of Backcountry Journal and Swing the Fly. With so few fish in the river systems of the Pacific Northwest, Zack ponders the personal decision to step away from the steelhead he loves and recounts the wanderings of a fly fishing vagabond from Patagonia to the Olympic Peninsula."

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Episode 48 Michael Reid & The World Record on the Fly

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0000

On the heels of a fishing excursion to Mexico, Michael Reid received an invite that no self-respecting guy with an angling problem could refuse. His very understanding wife obliged, and Michael hustled to the Outer Banks in pursuit of a bluefin tuna blitz, led by a captain known simply as "Creature". What transpired would reset the record book for tuna on the fly and heave an otherwise taciturn fisherman into the spotlight.

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Episode 47 Marcus Bevier & The Black Hills Redemption

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Spearfish, South Dakota was the site of a fly fishing kidnapping-mystery. On an idyllic afternoon in the nearby Black Hills, philanthropic fly angler, Marcus Bevier, found himself in the crosshairs of what turned out to be a case of mistaken stocking foot identity. Marcus was just out trying to hassle a few trout in his home waters when the day turned into the fly fishing equivalent of the Shawshank Redemption. Well, that may be a bit of an exaggeration….

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Episode 46 Brooks Jessen & White Knuckles in Western Montana

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Fly fishing on wild, free-flowing rivers is full of risk, peril, and unpredictable outcomes, and it's only a matter of time until a guide has a close call. For 20 years, outfitter Brooks Jessen, of TroutZoola Outfitters, has been navigating the rivers of western Montana and has experienced his fair share of white- knucklers...like the time he sunk his drift boat on a guide trip

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Episode 1 Justin Karnopp & The Fly in the Eye

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 14:42:45 -0000

In our premiere, we catch Justin Karnopp, owner of CD Fishing USA, tying a creepy pike fly. Justin recounts a couple of harrowing guide-tales from the Blackfoot and Deschutes rivers. Tune in and remember to go fishing! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 45 Travis Morris & The Carp that was Hard to Catch and even Harder to Eat

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

He's strolled down the street with the Fonz, kicked it with Jimmy Buffett, and represented many of the top brands in the fly fishing industry, but for Travis Morris, nothing beats the time he hooked and landed a 29-pound carp! Despite the fact that he is surrounded by hallowed trout water in his hometown of Bozeman, Montana, Travis belongs to the growing legion of anglers that consider carp as freshwater fly fishing's premiere quarry

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Episode 44 Paul Dixon & The Tarpon that Wrapped a Naked Angler in a Tree

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Renowned captain, Paul Dixon, has divided his distinguished, 30-year guide career between the striper flats of Montauk and the bonefish, permit, and tarpon waters of the Florida Keys. Paul is one of the most sought-after guides in these hallowed waters and is being recognized for his innovations and conservation work as the recipient of this year's Isaac Walton Award from the American Museum of Fly Fishing. Paul has acquired a long list of clients who have become lifelong friends, and the shenanigans that have occurred are the stuff of legend. We are lucky enough to have Paul sit in with us and share past exploits, like the time a client named "2 Dogs" jumped ship in his birthday suit, and the one when a famous musician invited them to his dock for a shore lunch.

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Episode 43 Chris Santella & The Amazing, Epic, Wonderful, Very Good Day

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Whether you're a fly angler or not, you've likely seen the work of Chris Santella in bookstores, gift shops, or in the waiting room. As the author of the "Fifty Places Before You Die" series, Chris found a niche in the highly competitive and extremely difficult world of freelance writing, providing Chris with the means to pen countless fly fishing stories and pursue his passion for music along with his band, "Catch and Release". Most importantly, there is time for family and fishing. Thoughts of steelhead are never far from Santella's mind, and the imperiled state of anadromous fish in his home waters of the Pacific Northwest weigh heavily.

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Episode 42 Jeff Perin & The Boat that got Away

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Tom Brady is praised for his longevity and legacy, but what about Jeff Perin? With three decades as a fly shop owner, guide, and globe-trekking angler, Jeff has stood the test of time as the proprietor of The Fly Fisher's Place, an institution in the charming mountain town of Sisters, Oregon. Sure, he may not have all of the championship rings, but he has more special use outfitting permits than the GOAT, and he once ran the length of a river road in his waders while trying to catch a runaway boat. Could Tom do that?

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Episode 41 Rick Kustich & The Musky of a Lifetime

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

When it's too damn cold and windy for the camp stove to work, who settles for a dinner of raw fish? A musky angler, that's who. The hardy souls who pursue the "Fish of 10,000 Casts" are certainly cut from a different cloth, and author, instructor, and photographer, Rick Kustich, is no exception. Rick shares insight and experiences from his 40-plus years of pursuing musky and Great Lakes steelhead.

https://rickkustich.com

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Episode 40 Henry Cowen & The Forbidden Waters

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

The allure of a feeding frenzy can be too much for an angler to take, and many of us have done it...aimed a reach-cast at the forbidden fruit. For Henry Cowen, the decision to bend the rules drew a prompt response from authorities in a menacing gunboat who had little sense of humor...or they weren't anglers. Guide, fly tyer and author of the recently released "Flyfishing for Freshwater Striped Bass", Henry shares this and other exploits accrued from a lifetime of fly fishing shenanigans.

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Episode 39 Hogan Brown & The Time the Teacher Became the Student

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0000

Meet Hogan Brown, the fly fishing equivalent of MacGyver who simply must never sleep. Despite a stack of irons in the fire centered around teaching, creative fly tying, guiding and music, this kind-hearted, hard working father is one of the founders of Cast Hope, a non-profit organization devoted to providing the gift of fly fishing and the outdoors to kids and their mentors.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 38 Eddie Olwell & The Time He Walked Away from Wall Street

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Does this sound like a blurb on a paperback? "Promising Wall Street broker, Eddie O', shirks the champagne and caviar lifestyle and moves to Montana to pursue his dream of becoming a ski bum and fishing guide." This is the real-life story of Eddie Olwell, owner of Fishs Eddy O Outfitters, who, to the chagrin of his parents, found the allure of dry fly fishing and deep powder more magnetic than the glitz and glamour of The Big Apple.

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Episode 37 Dave McCoy & The Stream Side Bowel Emergency

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Between an ordeal and an adventure, there's a positive attitude and a fella/ by the handle of McCoy. Dave has a fly shop in Seattle and an outfitting crew, collectively called, Emerald Water Anglers. An ex-ski racer, McCoy still has a knit or two unwoven and we're very grateful that a talented photographer and complete class-act took the time to share his stories with us.

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Episode 36 Chris Dombrowski & The Bison that Stood it's Ground

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

We are fortunate to have our base of operations in Missoula, where authors, fly fishing guides, poets, and professors are as common as evening caddis events, or, in the case of Chris Dombrowski, all of these vocations rolled into one personality. Despite publishing several books and countless magazine articles, Chris still retains a few stories yet-untold from a life spent exploring watery realms throughout Michigan, Montana, and the Bahamas.

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Episode 35 Bryan Huskey & The Sleepless night in the Bass Bog

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0000

Solo fishing trips are inherently unpredictable and Bryan Huskey has a knack for putting himself in predicaments in wild places. Throughout a lifetime spent exploring the west on hunting and fishing excursions, Bryan has encountered plenty of interesting characters and developed a knack for storytelling across multiple media platforms. A gifted photographer, videographer and passionate conservationist. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 34 Nathaan Demers & The Shark-Infested waters of Fiji

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

While navigating the shark-infested waters of mental health, psychologist and fly angler, Nathaan Demers, and his team created a unique platform, "Man Therapy", aimed at providing a resource for men experiencing depression, anxiety, and anger at a critical time in our society. Befitting a man who has spearfished in the literal shark-infested waters of Fiji. https://mantherapy.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 33 Frank Smethurst & The Near-Death Experience in The Yucatan

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

He's starred on the both the big and little screens in many fly fishing productions, but what would Frank Smethurst do when his fishing problem led to a near-death experience aboard a decrepit boat? He decided to make some major changes to his life, toning back his travel significantly and spending more time at home with his wife and daughter. Then, in a twist of irony, he was enlisted to work on another production. The premise? Traveling around the country in a decrepit boat with the crew from Meateater.

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Episode 32 PJ Burgess & The Sundress Chef

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

At a fishing lodge, many factors are in Mother Nature's hands. Weather and water conditions are subject to fluctuations, and there's certainly no guarantee that the fish will cooperate, so a successful lodge focuses on that which it can control, namely, the food! Montana Chef PJ Burgess has made a career out of catering to hungry anglers and shares some of her adventures and creative recipes just in time for the biggest meals of the season.

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Episode 31 Michael Gibson & The Monkey in the Bar

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0000

"A fisherman in a monkey suit walks into a bar"... This isn't the lead-up to a punch line, but an actual retelling of events from our guest, Michael Gibson. A former fly fishing guide and outdoor television producer, Michael is the Idaho Field Coordinator for Trout Unlimited and a champion for coldwater fisheries and public access. Plus, he's a helluva' good story teller, but may need to find some new fishing buddies....

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Episode 30 James Lady & The Sasquatch Story

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

In the spirit of the spooky season, we track down an eccentric angler who shares hair-raising encounters from the woods and waters of the Wolverine State. Hang onto your ciders as James Lady waxes on his freaky experiences, including recordings of unexplainable vocalizations and video/photo evidence of strange beings...including another Michigan native, Kid Rock!

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Episode 29 Brian O'Keefe & The Guide Day from Hell

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

In baseball, a "5 Tool Athlete" can hit, field, run, throw, and hit for power. Brian O'Keefe is the fly fishing version of a 5 Tool Athlete, he can fish, cast, run a boat, take amazing photos, and tell great fishing stories. Brian has made fly fishing his life's work, and used his skills with a rod and camera to traverse the globe and fill fly fishing magazines, books, and short films with his imagery and persona. We are thrilled to have him in the February Room and since laughter is the best medicine, prepare for a heavy dose from a true 5 Tool Athlete!

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Episode 28 Andrew Weiner & The Day of a Lifetime

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

If fly fishing is his mistress, Andrew Weiner's true love is books. This California-based angler makes his living selling books and saw a niche for a children's fable centered around fly fishing. Weiner paired with highly talented illustrator, April Chu, and the end result was "Down by the River", a charming story that follows three generations of a family out on a fly fishing adventure. Andrew has a few of his own family fishing stories to share, including the time he and his dad encountered some beastly redfish!

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Episode 27 Jennings Hester & Fishing the Good Fight

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Mental health is one of the biggest issues facing our country, and as another pandemic grabs headlines, the suicide rate continues to climb. Men are particularly at risk for mental health issues and this week's guest, Jennings Hester, has made it his mission to offer support. A former SEC football player turned fly angler and tyer, Jennings and his organization, Fighting the Good Fight, are taking a unique approach to contributing to men's well-being...and the guy also has some pretty fantastic fishing stories. https://www.fishingthegoodfight.com/

Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1–800–273–TALK (8255) if a loved one expresses suicidal thoughts.

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 26 Matt Devlin & The Secret to a Good Fly Fishing Film

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Never underestimate the resourcefulness of a hungry young angler with an idea! Meet Matt Devlin, a former fishing guide turned filmmaker. When Matt and his buddy first conceived the notion of producing a fishing film on a shoestring budget, they circumvented the expense of purchasing a camera buy "renting" one from a box store with a 10-day return policy. From these meager beginnings, a new career and a film tour were born! Tune in as Matt shares his personal odyssey through fly fishing to become the Founder and Director of the Montana Fishing Film Festival.

https://www.mtfishingfilmfest.com/

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Episode 25 Blain Tomlinson & Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Fly anglers can disagree on many things; the right pattern, the best rod, the most perplexing quarry...but we can all find common ground in support of the men and women who serve, and have served, our country. This week we have the great pleasure of speaking with Blain Tomlinson, a lifelong fisherman and Board Member of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, an organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of military minds via fly tying, rod building, and simply spending time on the water.

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Episode 24 Tom Ralston & The Rod Builder who can't hang onto a Rod

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Simply put, custom rod builder, Tom Ralston, is a good egg! On a teacher's salary, Tom provides hand-built fishing rods to kids, neighbors, cancer survivors and military veterans, often for free or for a fraction of what his fine craftsmanship is worth. Fueled by old school work ethic, Tom's company, Americatown Custom Rods, is dedicated to putting something unique and truly "custom" in the hands of anglers...all for the love of fishing!

http://americatowncustomrods.com/

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Episode 23 Elke Kirk & The Fight to Save the Deschutes

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

These are trying times for Oregon's mighty Deschutes River. Multiple environmental factors threaten the river's native redband rainbows, steelhead, and salmon. Now more than ever, this watershed needs warriors to stand up and fight for her. Meet Elke Kirk, a First Nation's fly fishing guide who uses his platform to educate anglers on the importance of protecting and enhancing the river that has sustained his people since time immemorial. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 22 Jessica Haydahl & The Perfect Shot

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0000

At just 7 years old, Jessica Haydahl trekked off into her backyard, disposable camera in hand, determined to capture the natural world around her. Many years later, her interest in photography would mesh with her intimate knowledge of ice hockey and launch a career as an NHL photographer. Born the daughter of a Norwegian fisherman, Jessica's love of angling spurred a highly successful transition into the highly competitive, and mostly male-dominated, world of fishing photography. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 21 Drake Perry & The Great Water Rescue

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

We've all been there. Rendezvoused well before dawn, assessed the situation, reconfigured at the jumping-off-point....but here's where the story diverges from the norm...the Law arrives and suddenly, you're party to a crime scene-enlisted to play the role of superhero. This is the story of Drake Perry, an angler who would prefer to mind his own business and explore the unusual waters of the Ohio River valley. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 20 Marty Johanson & The Genesis of Composite Developments

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0000

"How do we get these rods in angler's hands?" That was the question Marty asked, when, circa 1980, one of his fishing buddies began building rods out of a clandestine material designed for incognito aircraft. Not only was the SR-71 born, but the fishing world changed forever with the introduction of carbon fiber, aka, graphite, as the fundamental material in rod blanks. For our 20th episode, we have the great pleasure of speaking with Marty Johanson, founder of Composite Developments. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 19 Juan Coetzee & The Pursuit of Garrick on the Fly

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 07:00:47 -0000

If you ever find yourself swimming at night in the shark-infested waters of South Africa, you might just bump into Juan Coetzee, returning from one of his solo missions for the elusive garrick. Known amongst the tight-knit fly fishing community surrounding Cape Town as "The Oracle", Juan possesses an unnatural "fishyness" and may just be hiding gills beneath that Irish beard. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 18 Matthew Churchman & The Grizzly Bear Mauling

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

On May 17th, 2020, Matt Churchman was breaking down a riverside camp with friends and family. Big brown trout were on his brain when he walked down by the river and encountered a different kind of big brown. The next few seconds would change the life of everyone involved. This is a story of survival, bravery, friendship, and inspiration that you don't want to miss! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 17 George Hill & The Bull Trout that Ate the Cuttie

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

While on a DIY foray to Mexico for permit, via bicycle, George Hill stumbled into the right bar and found the right guy pouring drinks...a bartender with a boat and an eye for the whereabouts of these elusive fish. George Hill has an eye too, for seeing the intricacies of the natural world, and the elusive fish he loves to pursue, and expressing this with oil on canvas. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 16 Alvin Dedeaux & The Lost Boat Ramp

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Austin, Texas is home to many talented, eclectic individuals and Alvin Dedeaux is no exception! Alvin wears many hats-husband, father, former frontman, fly fishing guide, brand ambassador, and innovative fly tyer who created a highly effective bass popper from a discarded flip flop. Enjoy the ride as Alvin guides us across his home state of Texas, throughout the West, and to the Seychelles...lets just hope he doesn't miss another boat ramp. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 15 Greg Munther & The Salmon Streak

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0000

How did you celebrate your last birthday? Did you try to catch an Alaskan salmon for each year that you've been on this earth? That's what Greg Munther did. If you live in the Northern Rockies and hunt and fish, you've likely heard of Munther, and we are very fortunate to have this revered traditional outdoorsman and conservationist in The February Room! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 14 Jon Hazlett & The Skeptical Steelheader

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 07:00:11 -0000

There are two kinds of fishing guides in this world-those who have lost their boat, and those who will. Meet a card-carrying member of the former club, Jon (Bon) Hazlett, a steelhead angler and world-renowned spey caster/instructor from Medford, Oregon. Jon has seen some ridiculous events transpire over his long career as a steelhead guide...the tug is the drug! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 13 Brooks Montgomery & The Wonderings of a Fly Fishing Hobo

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 07:00:59 -0000

Perhaps this guy has spent too much time mountaineering in the thin air? We hear life on Antartica can mess with your head? Maybe double-digit trout in New Zealand still haunt him? Join us as we peel back the onion that is Brooks Montgomery, a name that is synonymous with the fly fishing industry, adventure-angling, and a relatively un-fishy town in Idaho that still considers him an outsider. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 12 Cristian Dufflocq & The Patagonian Wonderland

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 07:00:32 -0000

Imagine owning 360,000 acres of private trout water...that's right, 360,000!!! Well, Chilean angling pioneer, Cristian Dufflocq, along with his brother, wake up to this dream daily, in a fly fishing paradise called Estancia de los Rios. In this episode, Cristian takes you to this Patagonian wonderland, reflects on the memorable people he has fished with over his career, and recalls the monster fish that got away! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 11 David Alexander (The Dirtball) & The Backcast that Hooked the Horse

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 07:00:23 -0000

Hip hop/rap artist, David Alexander has lived a wild life and his adventures in the outdoors are no exception. Tune in as David (aka The Dirtball and former band member of the Kottonmouth Kings) remembers noodling catfish, poaching the campwater, and the time his buddy accidentally hooked way more than he bargained for! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 10 Linda Leary & Fishe Wear

Tue, 26 May 2020 07:00:53 -0000

A lifelong angler and Alaska resident, Linda Leary has managed to blend her love of fishing with an entrepreneurial spirit! Linda realized a dearth of comfortable, functional, under-wader wear for women in the fly fishing industry, and Fishe Wear was born! A well-traveled angler, Linda shares some of her adventures abroad and on her home waters of the Last Frontier. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 9 Jay Dixon & The Lama, The Storm, & The Rescue

Tue, 19 May 2020 13:22:25 -0000

A Missoula OG (original guide), Jay Dixon sits down with our host and reflects on his 30-year career as a guide and outfitter. Dixon's Outdoor Adventures, as the name implies, is more than a guide service, as Jay tends to push the boundaries on his Montana escapades. Over three decades of running wild rivers, there have been more than a few harrowing incidents that he and his clients have managed to escape! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 8 Al Pils & The Trip with the Primus Frontman

Tue, 12 May 2020 13:27:05 -0000

Here's the gist...we know a guy who has a really good beer named after him. His name is Al. Al is a Cheesehead but has called Montana "home" for a quarter-century. Al ties a fly called "Army Man" and fishes with some interesting friends, including Les Claypool, the frontman for Primus. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 7 Michelle Woo Bowman & Kick his @$$ Sea Bass

Tue, 05 May 2020 13:18:06 -0000

Imagine paddling out in the dark into the murky kelp beds of the Pacific on your board, dangling your feet off the side, and keeping your cool knowing that great white sharks are likely in close proximity? This is a fairly routine morning commute for marine biologist/angler/surfer/mother, Michelle Bowman. Michelle shares some of her most exciting, and hair-raising, experiences while board fishing, and her initial introduction to the "quiet sport"...fly fishing for mako sharks! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 6 Jenny West & The Fish that Saved a Rainy Day

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 14:26:09 -0000

Meet Jenny West of Go West Outfitters, a lifelong angler and entrepreneur born on the banks of the Bitterroot River. Jenny shares her journey through 20 years of guiding and outfitting on Western Montana's most dynamic watershed, adventures in Christmas Island, and the time they caught an epic trout when everyone else stayed home. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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EPISODE 5 Pete Skidmore & The Celebrity's Toilet Surprise

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 14:19:42 -0000

He's graced fly fishing catalogs, appeared on TV shows, became one of the most-renowned guides on Montana's Missouri River, but you won't find him anywhere on social media! Owner of Rise Outfitters, Peter Skidmore, shares insight into guiding/outfitting, the difference between the two, and the time he @#$% in a movie star's loo!

--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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Episode 4 Dave Cook & The DIY Approach to Flats Fishing

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 13:25:23 -0000

Dave Cook exemplifies the term "intrepid angler". Though Dave calls Montana home, the salt courses through his veins. His passion is DIY fishing and he has channeled his vast experience into "Skinny Waters", a travel business catering to the growing do-it-yourself crowd. Cook shares some adventures in wanderlust and his favorite fly for Christmas island bonefish. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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EPISODE 3 Bill Owens & The Life of a Professional Videographer

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 14:33:58 -0000

We finally got Bill Owens to talk! A 20-year veteran of outdoor television, Bill has traveled and filmed throughout the globe and shares a few encounters with unmanned boats, bears, celebrities, and sticks in the eye...oh my. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support

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EPISODE 2 Josh Lauer & The Crazy Wildlife Encounters

Sat, 28 Mar 2020 14:35:29 -0000

Meet Michigan native and longtime Montana outfitter, Josh Lauer. Josh has spent 20 years guiding and exploring the Big Sky. Lauer shares one of his favorite patterns for the spring Skwala hatch and some close encounters with Montana wildlife. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lauren-karnopp3/support