740 | Fly Fishing the Northern Rockies with Phil Rowley, Daniel Schildknecht, & Lance Egan

#740 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/740  

Presented by: Northern Rockies Adventures

In this episode, we dive into the remote and wild fishing experiences offered by Northern Rockies Adventures with Daniel Schildknecht, Phil Rowley, and Lance Egan. From chasing Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Grayling to navigating untouched rivers by float plane, this trip had it all. Plus, we get an inside look at an upcoming hosted trip that might be your next dream adventure.

Strap in for big fish, wild landscapes, and some unforgettable moments on the Wet Fly Swing Podcast!

Episode Chapters with Phil, Daniel, and Lance on Northern Rockies

Whitefish, Grayling, and the Predator-Prey Game

The lakes and rivers of the Northern Rockies are home to a mix of fish, each playing a role in the ecosystem. While whitefish and grayling might not be top targets for every angler, they tell an important story about these waters.

Key Takeaways:
- Whitefish = Healthy Water – Mountain whitefish are a sign of clean, untouched rivers. If they’re thriving, so is the fishery.
- Grayling on Dry Flies – These fish love rising to dries but don’t always have the best aim. Be ready for multiple takes!
- Whitefish = Food Source – Big rainbows, bull trout, and lake trout feast on whitefish. Schools of them hugging the bank means predators are nearby.

Some of the best fishing moments happen when you’re not just casting but observing. In these remote waters, every fish has a role, and understanding them can make you a better angler.

Crystal Clear Lakes and a Short but Intense Fishing Season

The lakes of the Northern Rockies aren’t like most others. They are deep, clear, and packed with life. With diverse landscapes and rich water quality, these lakes create the perfect habitat for big, healthy fish.

What Makes These Lakes Special?
- Ultra-clear water – No murky lakes here, just pristine, see-through waters.
- Rich food sources – Scuds (freshwater shrimp), snails, and chironomids fuel big trout.
- Diverse habitats – From deep, rocky basins to shallow, weedy shoals, every lake is different.

The fishing season here is short but intense. If you’re after prime stillwater action, aim for June to September. For big pike, cooler water in June or late August is best. And if dry flies are your thing, mid-July to mid-August is peak time.

Chasing Lake Trout: Timing, Depth, and Surprise Encounters

Lake trout can be tricky on the fly, but with the right approach, they’re not impossible. These fish love cold, oxygen-rich water, so they move deep when temperatures rise. But sometimes, they show up in the last place you’d expect.

Flying into the Wild: The Ultimate Fishing Access

Getting to Northern Rockies Adventures isn’t just a journey—it’s part of the experience. Float planes take anglers deep into untouched waters, where the only crowds are schools of hungry fish.

The Bush Planes That Get You There
- Caravan – A “rocket ship on floats,” built for speed and comfort.
- Turbo Otter – A powerhouse that carries up to nine anglers in style.
- King Air 300 – The luxury ride from Vancouver, flying right over the Rockies.

Every flight brings jaw-dropping views, from rugged peaks to remote lakes. And with bubble windows, you're never missing a moment. No crowded boats, no long drives—just you, a plane, and the adventure ahead.

Phil and Tim Flagler are teaming up for a special hosted trip at Northern Rockies Adventures from August 10–17, 2025. This trip offers a mix of stillwater and river fishing, with access to some of the wildest and most untouched fisheries in North America.

What to Expect
- Four flyouts to remote waters, targeting multiple species.
- Guided and hosted fishing with Phil, Tim, and the Northern Rockies team.
- Pre-trip Zoom sessions to go over logistics, gear, and flies.
- Lodge accommodations with incredible food and views.

If you're interested in joining the trip, email Daniel or Phil at [email protected] or [email protected] or visit flycraftangling.com.

Exploring the Northern Rockies by Float Plane

Lance Egan spent an unforgettable week at Northern Rockies Adventures, fishing six out of seven days and staying at the lodge right off the Alaska Highway. The experience combined world-class fishing, comfortable accommodations, and breathtaking views.

Lance landed rainbows, bull trout, grayling, northern pike, and lake trout while exploring the remote waters. With 132 million hectares of wilderness and 80+ fishing locations, the possibilities were endless. Even after a week, it felt like they had only scratched the surface.

One of the biggest highlights? Flying in a float plane over untouched rivers and hidden lakes, picking the perfect spot to fish. With so many unexplored waters, it’s an angler’s paradise waiting to be discovered.

A Fly Fishing Playground: Dry Flies, Streamers, and Bull Trout

Lance mixed it up on this trip, fishing dry flies, streamers, and even topwater poppers. While dry fly fishing was his go-to, he also found success stripping streamers for bull trout, pike, and lake trout.

Bull Trout: Targeted near drop-offs and inlets, using streamers like white sparkle minnows.
- Pike: Explosive topwater eats on poppers and divers in shallow, clear lakes.
- Grayling & Rainbows: Dry flies were the ticket, with spot-and-stalk fishing making for exciting takes.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/740