670 | Public Waters and Lands Conservation with Josh Mills - Wild Steelhead Coalition, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Clearwater River
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Release Date: 10/21/2024
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: , , , Fly fishing spring creeks can be super challenging—the fish are spooky, the water conditions aren't always perfect, and sometimes it's hard to present a fly just right. But today, PJ Smith—Driftless guide and Spring Creek expert—is here to share his secrets. He’s here to share how to find fish in winter, nighttime, and all year. You’ll learn how to sneak up on spooky trout, the best way to position yourself, and whether to cast upstream or downstream. Plus, you will find out when fishing is not fishing and...
info_outline 696 | Fly Fishing Saskatchewan with Alyx Parks - The New Fly FisherWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented by: , , , Sponsors: Alyx Parks, host at the New Fly Fisher, joins us as we talk all about fly fishing Saskatchewan, Canada. We delve into the region's finest lodges, renowned for offering exceptional fishing opportunities for pike, grayling, and other intriguing species. Alyx brings her wealth of experience from traveling with the New Fly Fisher, revealing invaluable tips for catching grayling, including the art of skittering and the importance of minding your backcast. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, this conversation...
info_outline Fly Fishing Sheridan Lake and Eagle Ridge Ranch with Steve Hyde (Traveled #22)Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: Today on Traveled, Steve Hyde of the Hyde Drift Boats family and Eagle Ridge Ranch manager shares his best tips for fly fishing Sheridan Lake and exploring nearby Spring Creek. Find out how to make the most of summer and winter activities in these areas. Plus, hear about how Steve and his dad founded Hyde Drift Boats in their garage and the innovations that set their boats apart. Show Notes with Steve Hyde on Fly Fishing Sheridan Lake 02:23 - We start off talking about how things are going at Eagle Ridge Ranch during this "in-between" season....
info_outline In The Bucket #12 | Simon Gawesworth and Adrienne Comeau on Winter Steelhead and Fly Fishing the Dean RiverWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: Sponsors: In today's episode of In the Bucket Podcast, we're joined by spey casting legends Simon Gawesworth and Dean River guide Adrienne Comeau. They’ll share stories, tips, and techniques for hooking these chrome torpedoes and mastering your cast along the way. It’s fish, flies, and a whole lot of fun – stick around! It's time to get in the bucket... Show Notes:
info_outline 693 | Fishing for King Salmon in Alaska with Chris Childs - Togiak River, Chinook, SteelheadWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented by: Sponsors: Chris Childs shares his insights on fishing for king salmon at the Togiak River. Discover the thrill of targeting Chinook, steelhead, and Atlantic salmon. Chris offers tips on swinging flies and adapting techniques to changing tides. Learn about Alaska's top king salmon rivers and gain valuable advice for your fishing adventures. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, this episode is packed with inspiration and insider knowledge from the Alaskan wilderness. Tune in now! Episode Chapters with Chris Childs on Fishing for King...
info_outline 692 | Swinging Flies for Trout and Steelhead with Marty Howard – Deschutes River, Classic Wet Flies, Steelhead Fly TyingWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: , , , What is the first thing you think of when I say the word Spey? Is it the cast, the flies, the rod, or is it something else? How about the Mickey Finn or the Starling and Purple? There are so many diverse ways to fish a fly, but today we're gonna blend some of the old with the new, some steelhead with the trout and some fly tying so you are better equipped to fish the fly and understand how to swing flies for all species. Marty Howard, co-author of Steelhead Fly Tying with Dec Hogan and an angler who's fished more steelhead rivers than most of us can imagine...
info_outline Littoral Zone #13 | The Effects of Environmental Cycles on Fish Behavior with Jason Randal and Phil RowleyWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented by: , , Sponsors: In this episode, Phil is joined by Jason Randall, a renowned author and fly fishing expert, to explore the fascinating effects of environmental cycles on fish behavior. Have you ever wondered how changing weather conditions or the lunar cycle impact trout behavior and feeding patterns? This episode promises to unravel these mysteries, offering vital insights that could transform your on-the-water success. With Jason's extensive research and Phil's practical experience, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to adapt...
info_outline 690 | Catching Big Smallmouth Bass with James Hughes - Schultz Outfitters, Fly Design, Fleein' CrayWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: , , , Today, we're covering everything about catching big smallmouth bass with James Hughes, head guide at Schultz Outfitters. James breaks down when to use smaller streamers versus the big five to eight-inch ones. We'll also learn the best times for swim flies, how to strip your fly for more success, and the two common mistakes most anglers make when chasing smallmouth bass. Plus, stick around until the end for details on getting a spot for our Smallmouth bass trip with Schultz Outfitters in July. Show Notes with James Hughes on Catching Big...
info_outline 689 | Fly Fishing Southwest Washington with Jackson Golik - Cowlitz River, Coho Salmon, SteelheadWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented by: , , , Sponsors: In this episode, we journey to fly fishing southwest Washington with expert guide Jackson Golik. Known for its impressive steelhead and salmon populations, this region offers anglers a unique experience that rivals the more renowned rivers along the West Coast. Jackson takes us on an exploration of the famous steelhead rivers such as the Kalama, Cowlitz, and Lewis. Discover the charm of these waters and learn how to optimize your fishing trips by timing them precisely and avoiding the bustling crowds. Jackson also shares his...
info_outline 688 | Grand Teton Fly Fishing with Scott Smith - Jack Dennis, Snake River, TroutWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: Scott Smith, owner of Grand Teton Fly Fishing, takes us on a journey through the Yellowstone area. We’ll uncover tips for fishing the area's rivers, learn about pre-hatches, and hear Scott’s biggest tip for landing those tricky fish sipping bugs off the surface. Plus, Scott will also share stories about his mentor, Jack Dennis. This is going to be a good one! Show Notes with Scott Smith on Grand Teton Fly Fishing. 02:03 - Scott grew up fishing creeks in North Georgia. Fly fishing for him came later when he picked up a rod at 12 at a...
info_outlineShow Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/670
Presented By: Togens Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, TroutRoutes, Angler's Coffee
Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors
Josh Mills, a seasoned expert from the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers team, as well as a board member of the Wild Steelhead Coalition and an accomplished steelhead fly tier, is set to guide us through the Clearwater River and public waters and lands.
Today, you'll learn how to adjust your reel technique for enhanced stealth. We'll also provide an update on the status of the Lower Snake River dams and their current developments. Additionally, you'll discover what a public lands yard sale entails. Moreover, we'll analyze a significant western stream to improve your success on the water this year. Together, we'll delve deep into the topics of steelhead fishing and conservation. Let's begin our journey.
Episode Chapters with Josh Mills on Public Waters and Lands
3:19 - We talk about our top destinations for steelhead fishing. Josh feels fortunate to fish in local rivers like the Clearwater and Salmon, but he reminisces about a memorable trip to the Skeena region in 2012 and plans to return in 2025. He also dreams of fishing in Northern California, inspired by historical figures in the steelhead community.
12:15 - Josh discusses his fishing strategy, focusing on the Clearwater River. He fishes the Clearwater from August through September, as fish from different basins, including the Snake and Grand Ronde Rivers, seek the cold water as a thermal refuge. He notes the Clearwater can be a challenging but rewarding river to fish. Once the thermal block breaks, fish often return to the Snake River, and Josh shifts his focus to the Grand Ronde system.
16:11 - We ask Josh for advice on fly patterns for steelhead fishing on the Deschutes River in October. He responds by emphasizing the unpredictable nature of steelhead fishing, suggesting that success often depends on the angler's confidence and intuition rather than specific fly patterns. He explains that steelhead are curious and might bite at almost anything due to aggression, predatory instincts, or curiosity.
23:31 - We dig into his involvement with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) and the Wild Steelhead Coalition. He initially got involved by running fundraisers and joining the board of the latter, which led him deeper into conservation efforts. He started volunteering with BHA in 2015, an organization dedicated to protecting public lands and waters in North America. Josh felt compelled to protect these lands, recognizing their importance for recreation and conservation.
28:57 - We get into the complexities of public land and water access laws in the United States, particularly focusing on differences between states. Josh elaborates on the varied stream access laws across states, highlighting how states like Washington, Idaho, and Montana have more permissive laws, while Colorado and Utah face significant challenges.
42:37 - We discuss Josh's experiences and growth in fly fishing. Josh emphasizes the continuous nature of learning and improving in fishing. He talks about the technical skills involved, such as casting and line management, and how observing skilled anglers like Brian Chou and others has inspired him. Josh admires their proficiency in handling challenging conditions and accurately predicting fish locations.
Josh acknowledges that despite trying to replicate the techniques of skilled anglers, there are subtle differences in execution that impact results. He emphasizes the importance of learning from others and adapting various techniques, such as transitioning between different fly lines.
45:58 - We compare fishing the Clearwater River versus in the Deschutes. Josh highlights the former's larger size, which offers more room for casting and allows for different fishing techniques. He notes that unlike the Deschutes, where sun orientation impacts fishing strategies, the Clearwater allows for dry line fishing throughout winter. He also mentions the genetic traits of Clearwater fish that make them more likely to rise through the water.
Additionally, he compares the river sizes and flow variability, explaining how the Clearwater's dam-controlled nature affects fishing conditions. Despite the challenges, Josh appreciates the unique fishing opportunities both rivers offer, with each having its own "secrets" and characteristics.
49:07 - Josh gives some valuable tips on fishing for steelhead in Clearwater. He suggests visiting the Red Shed Fly Shop for advice and emphasizes the importance of focusing on manageable sections of large rivers. He explains that understanding where fish rest and conserving energy is crucial. For rods, Josh notes that it varies with the season. He enjoys using a 15-foot rod with a 60-foot line but adapts his technique based on conditions.
54:39 - We discuss the dynamics of fly fishing, particularly focusing on the experience of fishing with highly skilled casters. Josh admits he is an average caster but values learning from experts like Calvin Fuller, and Brian Chou, who demonstrate exceptional skill and understanding of the craft. He recounts experiences at a steelhead camp, highlighting how observing and learning from others is invaluable.
58:30 - Josh shares his passion for tying steelhead flies, which he considers his favorite due to their intricate construction. He emphasizes the importance of learning from various resources and incorporating techniques from different fly-tying experts to develop his unique style.
Josh ties steelhead flies year-round, but also enjoys crafting flies for warm-water fish like smallmouth bass. He admits he doesn't enjoy tying dry flies unless they involve fun materials like foam. While he can tie Catskill-style flies, he prefers tying streamers and relishes the opportunity to learn new techniques, such as tying flat wings for striped bass or preparing flies for exotic fishing trips, which he finds particularly rewarding.
1:01:29 - He talks about the Wild Steelhead Coalition. Josh explains that the organization is mainly volunteer-run, with one small contractor. Despite its size, the coalition is highly effective in advocating for steelhead conservation, engaging in fundraising, public education, and advocacy efforts. Josh mentions a recent significant article in the Seattle Times that highlights their work, illustrating the coalition's impact despite its resources.
1:05:20 - We briefly talk about the status and future of the Snake River dams. Josh emphasizes the ongoing efforts to educate and build coalitions regarding the dams, expressing that everyone affected should be considered. He highlights the historical use of the dams for barge traffic and the declining export traffic on the river. He mentions recent news indicating salmon are passing above dam sites for the first time in a century, suggesting the potential benefits of dam removal on salmon populations.
1:08:23 - We ask Josh about that time when he worked at a radio after college.
1:13:08 - Josh shares that he used to play baseball as a pitcher.
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/670