Episodes

  • 638 | SexyLoops with Paul Arden - Fly Fishing for Snakehead, Ironman, Malaysia

    638 | SexyLoops with Paul Arden - Fly Fishing for Snakehead, Ironman, Malaysia
    Jul 29 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/638

    Presented By: Visit Helena, MT, Skwala, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Waters West

    Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

    Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to be on Capitol Hill and make a presentation in front of our nation's leaders have the word pebble Mine passed through your brainwaves a few times, or associated projects. And what if someone told you that the governor of Alaska has not been doing a great job of protecting the fish species up in Alaska? My guest today is going to take us behind the scenes in the battle of protecting our remaining stalks of salmon species so you can enjoy your trip even more next time you're up in Alaska.

    Adam Cuthriell, owner of Fish Hound Expeditions and a conservation minded fanatic is gonna take us into another big topic that's on right now. He was just on Capitol Hill and we're gonna hear the story of what that felt like to him. Pretty awesome, pretty emotional. And we're just gonna describe what you can do right now to protect the fish species up there and around the country.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/638
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • 637 | Minnesota Musky Research with Kamden Glade: What These Predators Really Eat

    637 | Minnesota Musky Research with Kamden Glade: What These Predators Really Eat
    Jul 26 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/637 Presented By: Skwala, Togiak River Lodge, Togens Fly Shop, Visit Helena, MT Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Kamden Glade, fisheries specialist from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, joins us to discuss his groundbreaking research on the Minnesota musky diet. In some regions, these formidable fish have earned a dubious reputation for preying on prized sport fish like walleye and bass. However, Kamden's research provides a different perspective, revealing that musky in Minnesota seldom consume these highly valued species. Throughout the episode, Kamden shares intriguing insights from his comprehensive study, including the innovative techniques used to examine the stomach contents of these apex predators without causing them harm. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of what musky feed on, the average sizes of their prey, and how this knowledge can enhance their chances of a successful catch during the fishing season. Episode Chapters with Kamden Glade on Minnesota Musky Research 3:45 - Kamden shares his lifelong passion for fishing, which started at a young age with his family, and later evolved into a professional career in fisheries biology. He explains that his interest in the ecology and biology of fish was sparked during his undergraduate studies, where a professor with a background in fisheries biology inspired him to pursue this path. 5:03 - His work in fisheries biology became more specialized during his graduate studies at Bemidji State University, where he led a research project analyzing the diets of muskies, walleye, northern pike, and largemouth bass in various lakes across Minnesota. This project aimed to address the negative perception of muskies, which are often thought to indiscriminately eat other fish species. 8:50 - Kamden discusses the diet of muskies, focusing on why walleye are not a significant part of their diet. Kamden explains that research, including studies in Minnesota and Wisconsin, shows that muskies primarily consume yellow perch and suckers. Other notable components of their diet include Northern pike, insects, aquatic invertebrates, and bullheads, depending on the region. Despite the presence of healthy walleye populations in the lakes studied, walleye were found in only four out of 650 muskie stomachs analyzed. This scarcity is not due to habitat differences, as both species often occupy the same areas in the lakes. Instead, it appears that walleye have effective defenses against predation. They have large tails for quick escapes, a heightened awareness of their surroundings, and sharp dorsal spines that deter muskies. 12:11 - We delve into the status, native range, and life history of muskies. Kamden explains that muskies are originally native to the Mississippi River and Ohio River basin, the Great Lakes drainage, and parts of Eastern and Central Canada. Despite remaining naturally reproducing in many systems, habitat changes caused by human activities like building dams and docks, and removing aquatic vegetation have led to a decline in natural reproduction. 14:27 - On the musky life history, he details that muskies typically spawn in spring when water temperatures range from the high 40s to low 60s, with peak spawning activity around the mid-50s. Unlike some fish, muskies do not build nests or defend their eggs. Instead, they spawn in shallow vegetation, and the eggs are left to fend for themselves. 16:25 - We talk about the conservation efforts surrounding musky fishing, particularly in Minnesota. Kamden explains that in Minnesota, muskies are generally not eaten, partly due to a statewide minimum size limit of 54 inches, which promotes their status as a trophy fish. This size limit means that by the time muskies reach 54 inches, they are usually quite old and less critical to the population, allowing for occasional harvesting without significant impact. 19:23 - I ask how their project has impacted public perception and regulations on musky fishing. Kamden explains that the project aimed to provide robust data on musky diets and their impact on other fish populations in Minnesota lakes. This data would help address any future disagreements or questions regarding musky management strategies. 22:09 - He describes how they got samples from the muskies' stomachs. What they did was catch them through electro-fishing. They had a generator that created an electrical field in the water. That temporarily stunned the fish enabling them to net and bring them on board. They put them in a live well to let them recover. They worked on these fish and then released them back into the lake. To get the food out from the fish, they used a regular bilge pump, hooked that up to a garden hose nozzle with a little piece of tubing and copper pipe on the end, and then they were able to put that pipe into the fish's mouth through their throat and into their stomach and then fill their stomach with water. That ...
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    50 mins
  • 636 | Kenai River Sportfishing Association with Shannon Martin - Chinook, Alaska, Conservation

    636 | Kenai River Sportfishing Association with Shannon Martin - Chinook, Alaska, Conservation
    Jul 24 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/636

    Presented By: FishHound Expeditions

    Today, we hang out with Shannon Martin, executive director of the Kenai Sport Fishing Association. She's here to take us behind the scenes into what they are doing to protect the best salmon rivers in the country. Plus, we'll get an update on the Chinook status in this area.

    Have you heard of the suicide run? It's a multi-day fishing adventure where anglers stay up all night, catching their limit for the day and getting their limit again for the next day.

    There's nothing better than Alaska King Salmon. Let's jump into it with Shannon and KRSA.

    Show Notes with Shannon Martin on Kenai River Sportfishing Association.

    02:34 - Shannon grew up in Alaska, where fishing has always been part of her life. About 15 years ago, her brother retired from the Army and got into fly fishing on the Kenai River. Shannon joined him, fell in love with it, and got hooked.

    Fly Fishing the Kenai River

    03:48 - The Kenai River is over 80 miles long with more than 15 public access points. The river is famous for its huge salmon, including the world record King salmon that weighed 97 pounds.

    The "Suicide Run" and Dip Net Fishing

    06:26 - The "suicide run" is a unique way to fish on the Kenai River. You get off work at 5:00 PM in Anchorage, drive down to the river, catch your limit of salmon by midnight, and then catch the next day's limit after midnight.

    This July, the sockeye salmon run is expected to bring in about 3.3 million fish, making it a great time to try out a suicide run.

    Dip net fishing is only for Alaska residents where they can harvest salmon using a five-foot-wide hoop net. Each household gets 25 fish for the head of the household and an additional 10 for each dependent.

    Kenai River Sportfishing Association

    10:25 - Kenai River Sport Fishing Association was founded in 1984 by Bob Penney to protect Chinook salmon. Commercial fishing, especially with gill nets, impacts Chinook as they return to spawn. KRSA aims to balance commercial interests with preserving fish stocks for future generations.

    Check out our episode with Adam of FishHound Expeditions! He talked about his experience visiting Capitol Hill to spread the word about the issues facing Alaska's fish.

    16:42 - Shannon explains how heavy foot traffic on the Kenai River banks harms salmon habitats. To fix this, they’ve built light-penetrating boardwalks. These walkways let people access the river without damaging the vegetation that holds the banks together.

    18:35 - KRSA hosts events like the Kenai River Spring Cleanup, where local students help remove litter from the riverbanks. They organize the Jr Classic in the fall, where they introduce around 100 children to fishing and water safety.

    24:19 - Shannon talks about the importance of educating anglers on proper catch and release techniques, especially for the declining Chinook salmon.

    31:24 - We talk about KRSA's major project with Alaska State Parks to restore and improve a popular state recreation site on the Kenai. This includes:

    Installing light-penetrating boardwalks
    Adding stairwells
    Providing offsite parking

    Kenai River Classic

    33:58 - The Kenai River Classic functions as not only an educational opportunity for KRSA to get together with local policymakers and philanthropists, but it's also a fundraiser. Highlights of the Kenai River Classic include:

    A three-day fishing event for about 150 participants
    The national round table on sport fish policy, in partnership with Yamaha Rightwaters
    Speakers from the American Sport Fishing Association and local tribal entities discussing important topics like the MMPA and in-river fishery protection.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/636
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    45 mins
  • 635 | Mossy's Fly Shop with Mike Brown - Chinook, Rainbows, and Sockeye Fishing in Alaska

    635 | Mossy's Fly Shop with Mike Brown - Chinook, Rainbows, and Sockeye Fishing in Alaska
    Jul 22 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/635

    Today we're heading back north to Alaska to find out what the road system has to offer. Not only are we going to talk about where you can find 20 and 30-inch rainbows, but we're going to get Mike's take on why Chinook have taken such a downturn and why this is connected to 30 billion hatchery fish being released up there. We're also gonna talk about swinging for rainbows so you're ready this fall when the game turns on.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/635
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    59 mins
  • 634 | Fly Fishings Impact on Veterans and Volunteers with AJ Gottschalk from Project Healing Waters

    634 | Fly Fishings Impact on Veterans and Volunteers with AJ Gottschalk from Project Healing Waters
    Jul 19 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/634

    Presented By: Stonefly Nets, TroutRoutes, Togens Fly Shop

    In this podcast, Dave talks about In this episode, AJ Gottschalk of Project Healing Waters talks about how their organization helps veterans through fly fishing. But did you know it also benefits volunteers just as much? Today, we’ll explore how their conservation program makes a difference and the opportunities to get involved.

    2:22 - Growing up on Florida's southwest coast, AJ's first memory is getting stuck in the live well of his dad's boat at around age two and a half. He talked about how this memory resurfaced as he watched his own young son, begin to form his first memories.

    4:16 - AJ recalls catching mega snook in Florida but truly fell in love with fly fishing during grad school in Buffalo, New York. Fishing the Great Lakes tributaries, he became an expert in drifting an indicator and later, swinging flies.

    7:05 - AJ shares how he recently enjoyed using the rod for swinging small flies like the Partridge and Orange. He loves this simple yet demanding fly, especially when getting the partridge wrap just right.

    11:15 - AJ continued with sharing his journey to becoming the creative director for Project Healing Waters. He mentioned his first encounter with the organization while working for Allen Fly Fishing, where they donated rods, reels, and hooks for fly tying, which showcased the program's impact.

    13:36 - In 2005, Navy Captain Ed Nicholson founded Project Healing Waters at Walter Reed. He saw disabled veterans struggling and introduced them to fly casting. Now, the organization is nearing its 20th anniversary, continuing to support veterans from all service eras.

    18:40 - AJ is proud to say that Project Healing Waters features diverse programs nationwide, mostly in Denver, Colorado Springs, and the National Capital region.

    20:31 - Check out their website at projecthealingwaters.org. You'll find a locations list to see if there's a program near you. You can connect with a field support specialist, a regional coordinator, or your local program leader to find out when activities like fishing trips, fly tying sessions, or rod building meetings are happening.

    29:57 - AJ highlightend an event that happened at Mosser Creek. Supporters of Project Healing Waters have made a lasting impact. One event that stand out most to him is the gathering of 15 veteran anglers and sponsors in Bridgewater, Virginia, bringing together the local community from Harrisonburg.

    33:53 - AJ shared how his interest in fishing grew from studying archeology in grad school.

    40:31 - AJ begins to explain how for many veterans, their call to serve doesn't end when they leave the military. It's natural for them to continue serving their communities and the natural environment that brings healing.

    50:14 - He then brought up that there are many ways to support Project Healing Waters beyond writing a check. One saying goes, "The best ability is availability," emphasizing the value of donating time.


    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/634
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    57 mins
  • 633 | Next-Gen Angling Boats with Rich Batcheller of Abstract Watercraft - Driftboats vs Rafts, Carbon Fiber, Boats

    633 | Next-Gen Angling Boats with Rich Batcheller of Abstract Watercraft - Driftboats vs Rafts, Carbon Fiber, Boats
    Jul 17 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/633

    Presented By: TroutRoutes

    Today, we're diving into the world of next-generation angling boats with Rich Batcheller from Abstract Watercraft.

    Rich is the brain behind the revolutionary carbon fiber raft. Find out how their design can help eliminate line tangles and redefine rafting, as well as the features that set this boat apart.

    Stay tuned for an insider's look into the future of watercraft with Rich Batcheller.

    Show Notes with Rich Batcheller on Abstract Watercraft.

    02:28 - Rich's fly fishing journey is greatly influenced by his father. He grew up fishing for sturgeon and salmon on the Willamette River. Today, he enjoys saltwater cutthroat fishing on Bay Bridge Island.

    A quick shoutout to Brian Niska, the host of our In the Bucket Podcast. He recently chatted with Trevor Covich about steelhead fishing. Give it a listen here!

    Abstract Model 1

    07:54 - Rich describes the Abstract Model 1 as an ultralight, self-bailing carbon
    fiber insert that drops into a whitewater raft.

    He explains how this design makes fishing easier and more efficient. Here are some standout features:

    Ultralight Design: Weighs around 275 pounds, 125–150 pounds lighter than a comparable drift boat.
    Carbon Fiber Insert (Provides a rigid floor and walk-around environment).
    No Traditional Rowing Frame
    Easy to Dismantle

    12:51 - Rich shares their journey in developing this new category of boat, their vision, and the challenges faced.

    17:48 - We explore the idea of selling their unique carbon fiber insert separately for other boat models. Rich acknowledges this possibility, but he mentions their partnership with SOTAR.

    He talks about SOTAR's durability and customer service, noting its lightweight and easy customization options, which align with everything Abstract Watercraft is trying to do.

    Check out our episode with Adam Hudson, where we talk about drift boats versus rafts.

    28:20 - One big thing about their raft is the solid platform you can stand on. It lets you move around easily, which is super helpful when you're fishing or guiding people.

    33:04 - Rich shared about his early career at Klein Bicycles, where he learned a lot about design and engineering from working alongside Gary Klein.

    Looking Forward with Abstract Watercraft

    54:51 - Keep an eye on Abstract Watercraft's Instagram and website for their upcoming official boat launch.

    Rich is excited about this new model featuring integrated rod holders, extra storage, and lightweight carbon fiber materials.


    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/633
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    1 hr
  • In The Bucket #7 | April Vokey and Tim Arsenault on Anchored Outdoors and the 2024 Spey-O-Rama Casting Champion

    In The Bucket #7 | April Vokey and Tim Arsenault on Anchored Outdoors and the 2024 Spey-O-Rama Casting Champion
    Jul 15 2024

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/632

    We have a very informative show coming your way, as I'm speaking with April Vokey from Anchored Outdoors, as well as Spey-O-Rama, world champion spey caster, Tim Arsenault. I've been friends with these two for many years and it's been exciting to watch them thrive as respected professionals in the fly fishing industry. April has her own educational media company, including one of the best podcast shows in the outdoor space. Tim runs a fly shop in Vancouver. He's highly sought after as a spa casting instructor and as his own line company. Today we're gonna talk high-level spey casting performance and gain some insight into the mindset of a successful steel header.

    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/632
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    1 hr and 49 mins
  • 631 | East Coast Fly Fishing with Derek Hutton - Virginia, Bass, Blue Ridge Mountains

    631 | East Coast Fly Fishing with Derek Hutton - Virginia, Bass, Blue Ridge Mountains
    Jul 12 2024
    Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/631 Presented by: Yellowstone Teton Territory, Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Stonefly Nets Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors Today, Derek Hutton from Hutton Fly joins us to talk about East Coast Fly Fishing. If you've ever dreamt of catching that elusive bass, muskie, or trout, then you're in for a real treat. In this episode, we'll explore the hidden gems of the East Coast, where you can cast your line and experience the thrill of the catch. Plus, Derek will give us a fascinating comparison between fishing in the iconic Yellowstone and the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. So grab your gear, sit back, and get ready to jot down some insider tips and tricks. Episode Chapters with Derek Hutton on East Coast Fly Fishing 2:27 - Originally from east Tennessee, Derek grew up fishing with his family on a farm, progressing from farm pond fishing to lake fishing for largemouth bass, and eventually to ultralight spin tackle fishing for smallmouth bass. 6:38 - Derek's career journey is a blend of his passion for skiing and fishing, which took him from the mountains to the waters. Initially, he worked as a ski instructor at the Grand Targhee Ski Resort, eventually progressing to manage the youth ski program and later becoming the Ski School Manager during the 2008 recession. In 2017, Derek transitioned to focus on his other passion, fishing, and became a full-time traveling guide, working with Wyoming Fish Fly Fishing Guides and WorldCast Anglers. 12:21 - He talks about how he came to manage the Abaco Lodge in the Bahamas, marking a significant shift from his previous roles in the West. The lodge, however, was devastated by Hurricane Dorian, which marked a challenging period for Derek and his career. 16:33 - Derek recounts the catastrophic damage, noting that the main lodge building was destroyed by the storm surge and high winds, which were unprecedented in strength. 25:02 - Derek talks about the challenges he faced in his career, sharing that he juggled multiple jobs, including instructing, night auditing, and various odd jobs to make ends meet. 27:30 - We delve into the journey and challenges in the professional recreation industry, particularly focusing on fly fishing and skiing. Derek mentions the high attrition rate in the recreation industry and the importance of learning from others who have succeeded. He also mentions several influential figures in the industry. 30:01 - He describes his operation in Lexington, Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Highlands. This area is notable for its diverse fisheries, including trout in cold-water streams and smallmouth bass and muskie in the warmer waters. 40:36 - Their busiest seasons are spring and fall, aligning with activities at the local universities. During these times, most clients are interested in trout fishing, specifically rainbow trout, which is primarily done through walk-in wade fishing in small streams. Bass fishing, on the other hand, is typically done by floating in rivers. 44:20 - He talks about fishing techniques, specifically for bass, using setups like a big dry fly with a small leech or wooly bugger — a method familiar to many as a dry dropper rig. This technique is effective for catching bass, and he explains the nuances of this approach. We also discuss the "popper bugger" setup. 48:38 - Derek mentions the Jackson River in Bath and Highland Counties, where one can find rainbow trout over 20 inches, although the typical size ranges from 10 to 14 inches. He also talks about Buffalo Creek and the Jackson River being good spots for brown trout, with some exceeding 20 inches. Derek notes that these large catches are not everyday occurrences. 54:35 - We talk about the history of Virginia in commemoration of Memorial Day. 1:00:41 - Derek highlights the prime seasons for different types of fishing, explaining that trout fishing in Virginia is best from September to May due to cooler temperatures, while summer months are ideal for smallmouth bass fishing. 1:06:42 - He provides a detailed account of his recent and upcoming trips, mentioning destinations like Cuba, Argentina, the Seychelles, the Spanish Pyrenees, and Iceland. He underscores the importance of coordinating his travel to not interfere with the peak demand periods in Virginia. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/631
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    1 hr and 16 mins