681 | Christmas Island Fly Fishing with Rick Lee - Hawaii, Bonefish, Captain Cook
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Release Date: 11/18/2024
907 | The Story Behind Fishpond and Modern Fly Fishing Gear with Johnny Le Coq
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
#907 Show Notes: Presented by: , Sponsors: What does it take to completely rethink how we carry gear on the water? In this episode, we dig into fly fishing innovation through the story of Fishpond and the mind behind it, Johnny Le Coq. From cassette tape cases to chest packs and carbon fiber nets, this one connects design, function, and purpose in a big way. We get into the early days of Fishpond, how disruption shaped the brand, and why conservation became just as important as the gear itself. Jonny also shares what he's focused on now, including a powerful citizen...
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906 | Scott Fly Rod Founder Larry Kenny on Design and Innovation
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
#906 Show Notes: Presented By: , , , . Fly fishing has always evolved, but some moments change everything. From bamboo to fiberglass to graphite, each shift has redefined how anglers experience the water. In this episode, Larry Kenney shares what it was like to be at the center of one of the most important transitions in fly fishing history—the move to graphite fly rods. Larry, co-founder of Scott Fly Rods, takes us through the early days of rod building, the rise of graphite innovation, and the lessons he’s learned from decades in the industry. Along the way, he...
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904 | Upper Missouri Watershed Conservation with Josh Seckinger and David Stagliano from UMOWA
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
#904 Show Notes: Presented by: We dig into what’s happening on the Upper Missouri right now, from macroinvertebrate data to water management challenges. This episode with Josh Seckinger and David Stagliano from Upper Missouri Watershed Alliance (UMOWA) connects the dots between science, fishing, and long-term river health. Show Notes:
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903 | Fishing the Trico Hatch and the Missouri River Dry Fly School with Craig & Warren DeMark
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
903 Show Notes: Presented by: In this episode, Craig and Warren break down what really matters when you’re fishing the Missouri during peak dry fly season. We get into fishing the Trico hatch, how timing and rhythm often beat perfect fly choice, and what anglers miss when targeting rising fish. You’ll also hear about the Missouri River Dry Fly School at On DeMark Lodge. Find out what you can expect on the water, and how to apply the techniques you'll learn there anywhere you fish. 903 Show Notes:
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902 | Winter Steelhead Fishing Tips: Dax Messett on Swinging Flies, Tides, and Reading Water
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Presented By: , , . Steelhead fishing rewards patience, repetition, and time on the water. In this episode, Dax Messett shares practical winter steelhead fishing tips on reading water, fishing near tidewater, choosing the right setup, and making better swings on coastal rivers. We also get into the lower Rogue, the Klamath, leader strength, tide influence, and how to land fish cleanly without a net.
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901 | Montana Spring Creek Fly Fishing with Chase Glowacki from Montana Fly Fishing Lodge
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
#901 Show Notes: Presented by: In this episode, Chase walks through Montana spring creek fly fishing — from the Yellowstone and Stillwater to spring creeks and the Shoshone. We dig into double-nymph rigs, streamer strategies, dry-dropper setups, and how fall fishing in Montana changes the whole game. If you’re planning a Montana trip or just want to fish smarter on big western rivers, this one is packed with ideas. Show Notes:
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901 | Jim McLennan on Bow River Fly Fishing Then and Now
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
901 Show Notes: Presented by: , , , In this episode, I sit down with Jim McLennan to explore Bow River fly fishing across generations. We talk about the shift from classic dry fly fishing to streamer fishing, increased boat traffic, and the challenges of managing a well-known tailwater fishery in Alberta. We also get into key hatches like golden stones, how dam operations impact river conditions, and how fly fishing techniques have evolved on the Bow River. Jim shares stories about legends like Lefty Kreh and Gary LaFontaine, along with insights from his books, including Blue Ribbon...
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The Science of Hatches: What the Salmonfly Project Is Teaching Anglers with James Frakes and Jackson Birrell
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Watch the full video: Take the Angler Survey: Support the Salmonfly Project: In this episode, we dig deep into one of the most important but often misunderstood parts of fly fishing: entomology, or the study of aquatic insects, and how it directly connects to success on the water. James Frakes and Jackson Birrell from the Salmonfly Project break this topic down in a way that makes it approachable, practical, and actually useful for anglers at any level. Instead of overwhelming you with scientific jargon or Latin names, they focus on what matters most: understanding bugs...
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Henry's Lake Fly Fishing with Darren Huntsman (Littoral Zone #23)
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
899 Show Notes: Presented by: , , Henry's Lake fly fishing has a reputation that stretches across North America. Big trout, shallow water, legendary hatches, and a history filled with anglers chasing trophy fish. In this episode, Phil Rowley sits down with Idaho native Darren Huntsman, a lifelong angler who has spent decades learning the nuances of this famous stillwater. Darren grew up fishing nearby rivers and lakes, eventually falling in love with Henry's Lake for the same reason many anglers do—the chance to chase truly big trout in a bug-rich, shallow lake that fishes differently from...
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Fly Fishing New Mexico with Trisha Valdez – Small Streams to Big Tailwaters
Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast
Show Notes: Sponsor: Sponsors: Fly fishing in New Mexico offers an incredible range of water that many anglers overlook. From tiny mountain creeks hiding in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the famous San Juan River tailwater, the state delivers everything from technical dry fly fishing to big trout below dams. In this episode, I sat down with Trisha Valdez to talk about growing up around the Mora River, how she found fly fishing later in life, and why local rivers often shape us more than destination trips. Trisha also shares the story behind New Mexico Lady Anglers, the community she...
info_outlineShow Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/681
Presented By: On DeMark Lodge, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Heated Core, Angler's Coffee
Rick Lee, Hawaiian fly fishing master and saltwater expert, is back on the podcast, and today, we're diving into the waters of Christmas Island and Hawaii.
Rick’s got the scoop on where to find the biggest bonefish, and he’s sharing some tips on how to DIY your fly fishing trips across Hawaii. We also dive into the crazy world of triggerfish. Ever wonder why they’re called that?
Plus, he’s got some wild stories about Captain Cook’s adventures (and how he met his end in Hawaii).
Show Notes with Rick Lee on Christmas Island Fly Fishing.
02:33 - We catch up with Rick Lee since our last chat in Episode 116. Rick is still guiding out of O‘ahu while raising his kids.
We also discuss the challenges and progress of conserving Hawaii's coastal ecosystems. He said he's helping educate visitors about protecting the bonefish and other species.
07:26 - We catch up with Rick about his time in Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was in Christmas Island when things started to get serious and had a narrow escape, catching the last flight home before the island closed for nearly three years.
He said tourism in Hawaii took a huge hit, but the silver lining was there was no traffic, no crowds, and empty surf spots.
Fishing in Hawaii: What You Need to Know
09:52 - Rick shares some helpful tips for those planning a trip to Hawaii. He said that while Hawaii isn't a top destination for fly fishing, it’s a great activity to add to your vacation, especially if you’re looking for a few hours of fishing before the family wakes up.
Oahu has some of the world’s biggest bonefish, but with so many people and tourists, the fishing pressure is high. But Rick still recommends bringing your gear out for an adventure.
Aside from bonefish, Rick says you can also fish for triggerfish and some varieties of goatfish.
12:37 - Rick shares that Oahu has flats around the whole island, but winter can bring dangerous surf on the north and west shores, while the south shore gets more giant waves in the summer.
For those looking for specific spots, Rick recommends contacting his team for personalized advice based on where you’re staying.
Gear
Rick suggests using a 7 or 8-weight rod, a floating fly line, and a tapered leader.
For flies, crazy Charlie patterns in tan, brown, or orange work well, as do mantis shrimp patterns.
17:28 - Rick talks about catching some really big bonefish in Hawaii, with some reaching over 30 inches! The average fish on their charters weighs around 5 pounds, but you can catch ones that are 7-10 pounds pretty often.
22:53 - Rick explains that Hawaii’s warm water temps stay consistent all year, from the mid-seventies to low eighties. This means you can fish for bonefish pretty much any day of the year. However, late summer and fall can bring rainy weather and strong winds, making fishing tougher. But if you’re up for a challenge, the fishing is still great year-round.
Casting in the Wind
23:54 - Rick says the key is to slow down and keep your stroke smooth and powerful. He also recommends casting sidearms to help the fly cut through the wind more efficiently.
When it comes to rods, it’s all about personal preference, but fast or medium-fast action rods work best for wind and saltwater fishing.
As for fly lines, shorter, quicker shooting lines are great for windy days, while longer lines help with delicate casts when the conditions are better.
27:25 - Rick says there used to be a fly shop called Nervous Waters in Hawaii, but it closed down when the owner retired. If you’re heading to Hawaii, you must bring everything you need.
Fishing at Christmas Island
36:40 - Rick shares about Christmas Island, a remote spot south of Hawaii, where you can fish in a beautiful 145-square-mile lagoon. It’s known for its incredible fishing variety, from bonefish and triggerfish to big tuna and sailfish.
Triggerfish can grow up to 20 pounds and live in coral forts with special defenses. Rick talks about how tricky it is to catch them, but with the proper techniques, it’s one of the world's best places for trigger fishing.
Rick explains that a Christmas Island day isn’t just about targeting one fish species. You could start with milkfish, which travel in huge schools, and then switch to offshore fishing for tuna or sailfish. After that, it’s back to the lagoon to target bonefish and triggerfish. And when you think it’s over, giant trevally might pop up.
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/681