CJ's Reel Southern Podcast #1 | Chad Johnson and Alex Lafkas - Streamers from Michigan to Arkansas

#736 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/736 

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   

Welcome to the very first episode of CJ’s Reel Southern Podcast! This podcast is all about one thing—trophy fishing. Whether it’s brown trout, smallmouth, stripers, or even musky, we’re diving deep into the tactics, flies, and mindset it takes to target big fish.

To kick things off, Chad Johnson is joined by Alex Lafkas from Michigan—a longtime streamer junkie and one of the fishiest guys I know. They swap stories about their early days figuring out the White River, compare notes on streamer retrieves, fly patterns, and how to read fish behavior. Plus, you’ll hear a quick monthly update from Morgan Guss of Diamond State Fly Shop on what to look for in the Ozarks this time of year.

If you love chasing big fish and geeking out on gear and techniques, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.

Episode Chapters with Chad Johnson and Alex Lafkas on Streamers from Michigan to Arkansas

Fishing the Ozarks: March Update with Morgan Guss

March is a big transition month for fishing in the Ozarks. Water levels fluctuate, bringing both challenges and opportunities. Streamer fishing can be hot, especially near the dam during shad kills. Minnow patterns remain a solid bet throughout the river. On the lakes, stripers, largemouth, and crappie start moving as the water warms. Whether you’re fishing the rivers or the reservoirs, now’s the time to get out and find some big fish.

Streamer fishing for big browns has deep roots in Michigan, but it has evolved in places like Arkansas' White River. Alex Lafkas shares how adapting to different water conditions is key. In Michigan, extreme seasonal shifts change fish behavior, while Arkansas’ tailwaters stay within a smaller temperature range. This means retrieves, fly selection, and feeding patterns vary between the two regions. Timing also plays a huge role—understanding when and where the biggest fish move makes all the difference. Whether you’re chasing trophy trout up north or in the Ozarks, learning how to read the water is the secret to success.

Feeding vs. Aggression: Understanding the Brown Trout Bite

When streamer fishing for big browns, knowing the difference between a feeding bite and an aggression bite is key. Smaller flies, like sculpins and minnow patterns, work best when fish are actively feeding. But when targeting trophy fish, upsizing to seven or eight-inch streamers can trigger an aggressive reaction. These big fish aren’t always hungry, but they will strike to defend their territory.

In Michigan and Arkansas, seasonal changes and water conditions affect how trout react. During winter and early spring, minnows and sculpins are prime food sources. As water warms, trout shift to eating crayfish and hoppers. Understanding these seasonal patterns helps anglers choose the right fly and increase their chances of hooking a trophy brown.

The Power of Water Temperature in Fly Fishing

Water temperature affects more than just whether fish are active—it helps determine what they eat. Instead of just thinking about if it's too hot or too cold to fish, anglers should use temperature to decide on fly selection and approach.

• Cold Water (Winter & Early Spring): Minnow and sculpin patterns work best.
• Warming Water (Late Spring & Summer): Trout key in on crayfish and larger prey.
• 50-Degree Sweet Spot: Brown trout tend to jump more when water hits 50°F.

The Power of the Pause in Streamer Fishing

When fishing streamers for big brown trout, knowing when to pause can make all the difference. Brown trout naturally feed in the drift, meaning they often strike when the fly stops moving. If you don’t give them that chance, you’re missing fish.

• A long pause lets the fly hang in the water, making it look like an easy meal.
• Fast retrieves can work in shallow water but should still include pauses.
• A trout that follows five feet behind the fly isn’t likely to eat—focus on the ones that charge in.

The key takeaway? Don’t overwork the fly. If a fish is committed, let it eat!

Reading the Fish: How Body Language Can Make or Break Your Catch

One of the biggest mistakes anglers make is focusing too much on their fly and not enough on the fish. Trout will tell you what they want if you pay attention. A fish that follows but doesn’t eat may need a different angle, speed, or presentation. Instead of just changing flies, try adjusting your retrieve or adding weight.

• Watch their behavior – If a trout is tracking your fly but hesitates, try a head-first approach.
• Use the right depth – Fish will rarely rise far to eat, but they will crush a fly that drifts naturally into their zone.
• Stick with what’s working – If one color or pattern has been producing, keep it in the mix, even when the bite slows.

Big fish aren’t just about luck—they're about reading the water, adjusting, and making the right move at the right time.

Chasing the Bite: Why Big Fish and Tough Days Are Worth It

Streamer fishing isn’t about numbers—it’s about the chase. The goal isn’t to catch the most fish, but to land the one that makes your whole day. Big browns, like trophy bass or muskies, take patience and persistence. The bite windows are short, the effort is high, but the reward is unforgettable.

• Match the fly to the conditions – Olive and white is a staple, but don’t ignore subtle shifts in water color and light.
• Read the fish – Watch their body language and adjust your retrieve. A following fish isn’t always a feeding fish.
• Stick to your game – Whether it’s throwing big streamers, chasing a trophy, or dialing in a new technique, fish the way that excites you.

The One Thing Most Anglers Get Wrong

Want to fish big streamers? Get your casting right first. Alex sees it all the time—anglers spend thousands on a guided trip but never put in the time to practice casting. A solid double haul and accurate placement can make or break your day.

• Tight loops matter – A sloppy cast won’t get the job done with big flies.
• Backhand casts are key – Keep those heavy streamers away from your guide’s head.
• Practice before your trip – A little time on the lawn or a local pond can save you frustration on the water.

A simple fix? Take a casting lesson. Spend an hour dialing in your cast, and you’ll get way more out of your next trip.

Connect with Alex & Chad Johnson

If you're looking to book a trip in Michigan or Arkansas, Alex takes new clients when available—just email him at [email protected].

For guided trips in the Ozarks, Chad Johnson is booking trips through CJ’s White River Outfitter. Whether you're after big browns or smallmouth, he and his team have you covered.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/736