678 | How to Become a Fly Casting Champion with Chris Korich - Golden Gate Casting Club, Maxine McCormick
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Release Date: 11/11/2024
Wet 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_outline 687 | DIY Options for Belize with Chris Watters and Mary Alice Hoppe from Iguana HouseWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: Has a Belize saltwater trip been on your bucket list, but felt a bit out of reach? Did you know it’s easier than you think to DIY Belize and pair it with a few guided days to maximize your experience? Today, we’re diving into everything you need to know for chasing Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit on the fly. Chris Waters and Mary Alice Hoppe from the Iguana House are here to give us a behind-the-scenes look at their incredible beachside operation. We discover how reef fishing in Belize compares to other saltwater areas, what to consider when targeting Bones or...
info_outline 686 | Fly Fishing in Chile with Mark Melnyk - Big Trout, Colin McKeown, The New Fly FisherWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented by: , , , Sponsors: Mark Melnyk, executive producer at The New Fly Fisher, takes us fly fishing in Chile which is renowned for its large trout and breathtaking landscapes. Mark shares invaluable insights and tips on how to plan an unforgettable fishing trip to this beautiful South American destination. We also pay tribute to Colin McKeown, the beloved former host of The New Fly Fisher, whose legacy continues to inspire anglers worldwide. Discover the allure of Chilean waters, learn about the fascinating cherry salmon that might just rival steelhead,...
info_outline In the Bucket #11 | Steelhead Science: Insights from Fisheries Biologists with Bob Hooton, Brian Morrison, and John McMillanWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: In this episode of In the Bucket Podcast, we sit down with three passionate fisheries biologists—Bob Hooton, John McMillan, and Brian Morrison—to talk all things steelhead. From the wild rivers of British Columbia to the Great Lakes and Washington’s rugged streams, these guys share fascinating stories, hard-won insights, and the challenges of balancing fishing with conservation. We dig into the evolution of catch-and-release fishing, the impact of angling pressure, and what it takes to protect steelhead for future generations. Whether you’re a...
info_outline 684 | Surf Fishing California with Tyler Vanosdell - Mission Bay Fly Fishing, Corbina, HalibutWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: , , , Today, we're surf fishing California, home to some of the toughest surf fishing spots in the country. Southern California also boasts one of the largest manmade bays and some of the best weather and fish species around. Tyler Vanosdell from Mission Bay Fly Fishing takes us from his roots on a cotton farm to becoming a San Diego fly fishing guide. Tyler shares the top three things you need to do before hitting the surf, the best apps to use, and essential tips for casting a full sink line. Plus, you’ll learn why the strip set is critical and how...
info_outline 683 | Fly Fishing the Missouri River with Craig DeMark - Big Trout, On DeMark LodgeWet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: Sponsors: In this episode, we're joined by Craig DeMark of On DeMark Lodge to guide us through the intricacies of fly fishing the Missouri River. You'll discover expert tips on navigating downstream fishing, strategies for handling pressured waters, and the crucial elements of achieving the perfect drift. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Craig's insights will equip you with the knowledge to enhance your fishing experience on the Missouri River. Plus, you'll get his top casting tip and learn what to do when you hook that...
info_outlineShow Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/678
Presented By: Grand Teton Fly Fishing, Smitty's Fly Box, Jackson Hole Fly Company
Curious how an 11-year-old girl managed to beat everyone and become the world fly casting champion? Chris Korich, legendary casting coach to top champions like Maxine McCormick, is here to reveal the secrets behind her success.
You’ll hear Maxine’s full story, from winning her first titles at just 9, 10, and 11 years old to outcasting the best in the world.
Chris also shares the number one thing every caster should know, along with tips on rod selection, essential gear, and the history of fly rods. Find out why some top pros still swear by 1970s graphite rods to dominate competitions today.
Episode Chapters with Chris Korich on How to Become a Fly Casting Champion
02:34 - Chris tells us about his childhood near the Golden Gate Angling and Casting Club in San Francisco. He spent his youth at the Oakland Casting Club, which opened its casting pools in 1958, just blocks from his home. By age eight, he had his first job helping people catch fish.
06:21 - Chris shares how he and his brother stumbled onto their first fishing rod—a discarded, rusty push-button reel they found by chance. They fixed it up and started casting at the trout ponds.
The experienced anglers noticed and stepped in to teach them how to cast properly. One of them was Tony Perry, who became Chris’s first coach.
Coaching Maxine McCormick
09:51 - Chris shares how he became Maxine McCormick’s coach. It all began when he got a call from Donna O’Sullivan, who saw Maxine at the Golden Gate Club. Maxine was only 9 when she started, and within a couple of lessons, she was already scoring casts like a pro.
15:56 - In 2013, Maxine started training with her dad, Glenn, just a few months after meeting Chris. They jumped into tournament casting, and five months later, Maxine competed in the National Casting Championship.
She outscored every woman in a national competition. By 11, Maxine was making headlines, beating everyone except Chris and Steve. At 12, she became the youngest world champion in the sport.
30:06 - Chris explains that starting with a full-flex rod, like the ones from the old days, helps you feel the line better. He also talks about the benefits of shorter rods, especially for beginners or those fishing in windy conditions.
40:49 - We chat about the best fly rods for beginners, especially for kids. Chris discusses how shorter, softer rods, like fiberglass or combination graphite-glass ones, work great for new casters.
He shares a cool story where 22 women tried different rods, and everyone picked a short fiberglass rod as their favorite. It helps them feel the line better and roll cast more easily.
54:10 - Chris shares a fun exercise with a butter knife to help listeners understand the importance of "feel" when fly casting.
1:00:59 - Chris explains that while many anglers still use long rods, the trend is starting to shift. He compares it to skiing, where shorter skis became popular to help beginners learn, and then they went back to longer skis—only to eventually return to shorter ones again.
Chris believes that shorter rods make fly fishing easier, especially for beginners, and encourages anglers to try them out.
1:10:51 - Chris says there's no doubt that Steve Ray Jeff is the greatest fly caster in history.
1:13:11 - Chris shares the impressive story of Maxine, who broke records at the world fly casting championships in Norway. Despite limited training, she scored 80 points in accuracy and won multiple gold medals.
Maxine is also focused on finishing her biology degree while still finding time to fly fish and work at a fly shop.
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/678