Trout Wrangler Podcast
Welcome to the Trout Wrangler Podcast, your premier destination for everything fly fishing in North Carolina and the surrounding states. Hosted by Ryan Geraghty, an avid angler with a passion for exploring the diverse waters of the Southeast, this podcast is dedicated to bringing you the best in fly fishing knowledge, tips, and stories.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep73: Trout Routes & the Future of Digital Mapping w/ Erik Johnsen
01/24/2026
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep73: Trout Routes & the Future of Digital Mapping w/ Erik Johnsen
On this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we’re joined by Erik, a key part of the team behind Trout Routes and OnX, to talk about the intersection of fly fishing, technology, and access. We start with Erik’s personal fishing journey — where it all began, how he got into fly fishing, and what ultimately led him down a path that blends time on the water with digital mapping tools anglers rely on every day. Erik breaks down what Trout Routes is for anglers who may not be familiar with the app, including how it helps fishermen find legal access, understand stream classifications, and plan trips more efficiently. We also dig into what led him to work with Trout Routes and OnX, and how those platforms complement each other. From there, we talk features — Erik shares his favorite tools inside Trout Routes, the features he personally uses the most, and a real-world moment where having Trout Routes Pro made a major difference on the water. We also look ahead to the future, discussing whether there’s anything exciting or “crazy” coming down the pipeline in 2026, and explore the idea of offline navigation when cell service and Apple Maps fail — something every angler has experienced at least once. As always, we wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist, followed by final thanks and plugs. Trout Wrangler Podcast, Trout Routes, Trout Routes Pro, OnX, fly fishing apps, fly fishing access, public fishing access, fly fishing technology, trout fishing podcast, fly fishing podcast, digital mapping fishing FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO @ErikJohnsen @TroutRoutes
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season: 2 EP. 72: Pro Bass Fishing and Unplugged Charters With Randall Tharp
01/21/2026
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season: 2 EP. 72: Pro Bass Fishing and Unplugged Charters With Randall Tharp
On this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Randall, a professional bass angler who’s spent most of his career behind a spinning rod and baitcaster — but has added a fly rod to the mix. We kick things off with Randall’s fishing background and what originally motivated him to start fly fishing after a successful career in professional bass fishing. He reflects on the tournaments he’s won, the pageantry and pressure of the Bassmaster Classic, and what it’s like competing at the highest level of the sport. Randal breaks down the tournament trails he’s fishing this year, why he chose them, and how balancing tournament fishing with running a charter business has shaped his approach on the water. We also get into one of our shared opinions — why Lake Norman might just be one of the least favorite lakes to fish, despite living so close to it. From there, we shift gears to charter fishing on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Randall talks about the flats boat he’ll be running this season, what makes the Port St. Joe fishery so unique, and how it differs from other areas along the panhandle. We wrap up with some fun hypotheticals and stories — including Randall’s two-minute crash course for a brand-new fly angler on the bow, his favorite Florida species to target on fly, memorable client trips, and a few wild guiding stories. As always, we finish with five songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist, followed by final thanks and plugs. @RandallTharp https://randytharp.com/
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 EP.71: Current Culture Fly & Virginia Fly Fishing with Simon Valencia
01/14/2026
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 EP.71: Current Culture Fly & Virginia Fly Fishing with Simon Valencia
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Simon Valencia, one of the minds behind Current Culture Fly, to talk fly fishing, teaching, community, and life on the bay. We start with Simon’s fishing journey — where it began, when he transitioned to a fly rod, and how living in multiple places with very different fisheries helped shape his approach to fly fishing. From there, Simon breaks down his current home waters, explaining what makes his part of the bay unique and why it offers such a special fishery. We dive into the inspiration behind Current Culture Fly, its mission, and the community Simon and his crew are building in Richmond and beyond. Simon shares how they balance introducing total beginners to fly fishing while still pushing experienced anglers to grow and refine their skills. Teaching is a major focus of this episode — from Simon’s key casting fundamentals for first-time anglers to stories from the water, including memorable trips, wild experiences, and guiding interesting clients. We also talk about the current state of the striped bass fishery, how it compares to New England, and what concerns anglers should be paying attention to. We wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist, followed by final thanks and plugs.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 70: Opening a Fly Shop in Philly & Building Community with Eli
01/10/2026
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 70: Opening a Fly Shop in Philly & Building Community with Eli
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down to talk about the journey into fly fishing and the exciting process of opening a brick-and-mortar fly shop in Philadelphia. We start with how our guest first got into fishing, when the transition to a fly rod happened, and what originally sparked the idea of opening their own fly shop. From there, we dive into plans for potentially setting up shop right in downtown Philly and how location plays a role in accessibility, community, and growth. A big focus of this episode is community — how the shop plans to highlight local fly tyers, involve the surrounding angling scene, and create a space that feels welcoming and inclusive. We also talk about what the shop aims to offer that other fly shops in the area don’t, and what excites them most about owning and operating a physical fly fishing storefront. We wrap things up with five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, followed by final thanks and plugs
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 69: Custom Skiffs and Boat Talk with Louis
01/08/2026
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 69: Custom Skiffs and Boat Talk with Louis
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we welcome Louis back to the show for a return appearance to talk boat builds, custom skiffs, and what life has looked like since his last time on the podcast. We kick things off by catching up on how business has been going and breaking down several new boats Louis has sold and built since we last spoke, including some unique setups and standout modifications. Louis walks us through the process of building a bass boat version of a skiff, what made that project different, and whether he’s had a chance to fish it with the owner yet. We spend time digging into the Bird of Prey build — what makes that boat special, the thinking behind running dual micro Power-Poles, and why smaller anchors sometimes make more sense than the biggest options available. Louis also shares some of the wildest customization requests he’s seen recently. Outside of the shop, we talk about whether he’s had time to get back on the water himself, what fishing has looked like lately, and we wrap things up with Louis’ five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist. @Macuch_Craft on instagram https://www.macuchcraft.com/
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 68: Fly Fishing, Louisiana Reds & Vintage Style with Austin
12/20/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 68: Fly Fishing, Louisiana Reds & Vintage Style with Austin
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I’m joined by Austin, a Florida-based angler whose life revolves around fly fishing, hunting, travel, and personal style. We start with where Austin’s fishing journey began and when he made the switch to fly fishing. Fresh off a trip to Louisiana, Austin breaks down where he went, whether bull reds were the main target, and if the trip was a hosted experience. We talk about other destinations he’s fished on the fly, his favorite places so far, and why Florida might be one of the most underrated states in the country for outdoorsmen. From fly fishing to duck hunting, we dig into pressure on WMAs and waterways and how things have changed over the years. We also shift gears into Austin’s vintage clothing business, what inspired him to start it, and how his personal style carries over into the outdoors. From quail hunting in an orange Hooters hat to fishing trips with a unique look, Austin explains why staying true to yourself matters. We wrap things up with Austin’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, plus final thanks and plugs.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 67:Fly Fishing Florida, Hosted Trips, and Building the Captains Collective Podcast with Hunter
12/17/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 67:Fly Fishing Florida, Hosted Trips, and Building the Captains Collective Podcast with Hunter
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Hunter, a Florida-based fly angler, trip host, and the voice behind the Captains Collective Podcast. We kick things off with Hunter’s early fishing roots and what pushed him to transition from conventional tackle to fly fishing. From there, we talk about what makes his corner of Florida unique compared to other fisheries around the state, and how local waters have shaped his approach to fishing and guiding. Hunter opens up about his background in ministry and how that chapter of his life influenced his decision to start podcasting, build community, and eventually run hosted fishing trips. We dig into the Drifter Club trips he’s been a part of, where those adventures have taken place, and the species they’ve chased along the way — plus where he’d like to take the group next. We then transition into the Captains Collective Podcast — why Hunter started it, the meaning behind the name, and how storytelling has become such a central part of what he does. Hunter shares guests who’ve had a lasting impact on him, what helped the podcast grow, and the moment he realized this could become more than just a side project. We wrap it up with Hunter’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. Instagram: @hunter_leavine Official Website: captainscollective.com Main Instagram: @captainscollective Podcast on Apple Podcasts: Podcast on Spotify: YouTube Channel:@captainscollectivefishingp9998
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 66: Fishing On The Move Aruba with Guide Robin
12/10/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 66: Fishing On The Move Aruba with Guide Robin
In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Rob, the angler and guide behind Fishing On The Move Aruba — one of the island’s most respected flats and inshore guiding services. We break down his fishing journey, what inspired him to start guiding, and how growing up in Aruba shaped the way he approaches both fly and spin fishing. Rob walks us through the origin of Fishing On The Move, what the name represents, and how he crafts unique, flexible experiences for clients targeting species like permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook, and more. We also talk sustainable fishing practices, trip lengths, tidal considerations, fishing regulations, and what traveling anglers should know before stepping onto the flats. From local insight to unforgettable stories, Rob shares some of his most memorable client trips, the hardest lessons he learned fishing in Aruba, and whether he’s ever guided athletes or celebrities on the island. Plus — Rob adds 5 songs to the growing Trout Tunes Playlist on Spotify. Thanks for listening, and big shoutout to Riversmith for supporting the show. https://www.fishingonthemove.com/ @Fishingonthemove297 @Saltyrob297
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 65: Saltwater Stories & SWC: A Conversation with Vince Stegura
12/05/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 65: Saltwater Stories & SWC: A Conversation with Vince Stegura
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Vince, an angler, trip host, and one of the minds behind SWC. Vince walks us through his fishing journey — where it began, when he transitioned to the fly rod, and how Florida’s diverse fisheries shaped him as an angler. We dig into his hosted trips, the destinations he takes anglers to, the species they target, and the fisheries he loves most outside of his home waters. Vince also shares the one piece of gear he never leaves home without, plus a few dream destinations he hopes to host in the future. Then we shift into the story of SWC — how the company started, why it began, the shops they’re currently in, and what the long-term vision looks like for the brand. We finish with five songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist and final thanks and plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — use code WRANGLER10 at checkout. Instagram: @vstegura Instagram: @swc_fishing https://www.skinnywaterculture.com
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 64:WNC Fisheries, Trophy Trout & Guiding Life with Galen
12/04/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 64:WNC Fisheries, Trophy Trout & Guiding Life with Galen
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Galen, the founder of Asheville Fly Fishing Company, to dig into the story behind one of Western North Carolina’s most respected guide operations. Galen walks us through how the business began, what the original vision was, and how it has grown into a go-to outfitter serving anglers across WNC and Tennessee. We break down the diverse fisheries of the region — from wild trout streams to smallmouth rivers to the elusive musky waters — and what makes the Southern Appalachians unlike anywhere else. Galen shares how he selects and trains guides, what trip types he recommends for beginners vs. experienced anglers, and how seasonality, water levels, and local conservation shape the guiding experience. We also get into what he wishes more anglers understood about WNC fishing, future trip types he’d like to offer, and one of his most memorable days on the water with a client. As always, the episode wraps with five songs for the Trout Tunes playlist and final plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — use code WRANGLER10 at checkout. @AshevilleFlyFishingcompany
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 63: DIY Belize, First Permit and A Grand Slam With Juan Bran
11/29/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 63: DIY Belize, First Permit and A Grand Slam With Juan Bran
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Juan — known online as BigFishCol — a master fly tier, saltwater angler, and one of the most creative minds in modern fly tying. We dive into his fishing roots, his transition to the fly rod, and the detailed approach behind the patterns he’s become known for. Juan breaks down the purpose behind his unique dual-cork-section rod setup, shares the story behind his latest fishing trip, and talks about his favorite species to chase both inside and outside of Florida. His fly-tying content is some of the cleanest and most educational on the internet, so we dig into how he keeps ideas fresh, avoids falling into “generic pattern mode,” and continually pushes creativity. We also talk EP fiber techniques, alternative tying materials that save money, and what would make the Mount Rushmore of saltwater flies. The episode wraps up with Juan’s picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist and final plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Use code WRANGLER10 at checkout.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 62: 2026 Holiday Gear guide!
11/26/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 62: 2026 Holiday Gear guide!
In this loaded Holiday Gear Guide episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ryan breaks down some of the best fly-fishing, outdoor, and lifestyle deals of the season. From apparel to rods, sunglasses to coolers, gift cards to daily deals — this is the full rundown of what’s worth grabbing and where the best value is across the fishing industry. Ryan highlights partners, his personal favorite picks, budget recommendations, and stocking-stuffer ideas for every type of angler.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 61 — Fly Fishing, Food, Film & Storytelling with Kirk Marks
11/19/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 61 — Fly Fishing, Food, Film & Storytelling with Kirk Marks
Welcome back to Episode 61 of The Trout Wrangler Podcast! Today, Ryan sits down with Kirk Marks — award-winning angler, writer, photographer, filmmaker, and the creative mind behind some of Flylords’ most beautiful storytelling. Kirk joins us from Kent Island, Maryland, where he splits his time between chasing fish, crafting wild meals, and documenting fishing culture with a camera and a pen. We get into everything — his fishing beginnings, how food and fly fishing collided in his life, what species define his home waters, how he balances shooting photos while actually fishing, and the stories behind his work with Flylords, including A Journey Upstream and other film projects. If you love fly fishing, filmmaking, wild game, photography, or the intersection of all three — this is a must-listen. Stick around for Kirk’s Five Songs, and Ryan’s final thanks and plugs.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 60 — Building 828, 843 & 239: Tripp, Nick & Jim on Crafting Three Fly Shop Cultures
11/15/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 60 — Building 828, 843 & 239: Tripp, Nick & Jim on Crafting Three Fly Shop Cultures
In Episode 60 of The Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Tripp, joined by Nick Davis and Jim — the minds behind 828 Flies, 843 Flies & Outfitters, and 239 Flies. This crew has built one of the most unique multi-region fly shop lineups in the Southeast and Gulf Coast, and today we unpack the full story of how it all came to life. We start with Tripp’s fishing journey and when he made the switch to the fly rod. Then we dive into the creation of 828 Flies, exploring how Nick and Jim helped shape the shop’s identity around the iconic Western NC area code and the tight-knit mountain fishing culture. From there, we head south to the Lowcountry to discuss how 843 Flies & Outfitters came to be — why Charleston was the perfect next step, and how the 843 identity reflects that fishery and community. We finish by digging into 239 Flies, what makes the Southwest Florida fishery so unique, and how drastically different it is from 828 and 843 despite sharing a saltwater focus. The guys walk through how they handle seasonality, tides, storms, gear recommendations, and the realities of helping anglers navigate multiple fisheries. We wrap up with Tripp’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Use code WRANGLER10 at checkout. Instagram: @828flies Website: 843 Flies & Outfitters Instagram: @843flies Website: 239 Flies Instagram: @239flies Website: https://239flies.com
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 59 — Buttery Brown Bourbon: Where Trout and Tradition Meet
11/11/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 59 — Buttery Brown Bourbon: Where Trout and Tradition Meet
On today’s episode of The Trout Wrangler Podcast, we’re joined by Chris, founder of Buttery Brown Bourbon, to talk about the intersection of two timeless passions — fly fishing and fine bourbon. Chris shares how his fly fishing journey began and what inspired him to create a bourbon brand rooted in the culture of the “buttery brown” trout. We dive into the story behind the brand name — a tribute to both the buttery brown trout and the smooth, brown, buttery liquid — and explore how those two worlds blend together in the identity of Buttery Brown Bourbon. We also discuss the balance between bourbon craftsmanship and fly-fishing storytelling, how the brand authentically connects with both audiences, and the challenges that come with building a boutique bourbon label with a strong outdoor narrative. Finally, Chris gives us a look at what’s next for Buttery Brown Bourbon — from potential collaborations and limited releases to future fishing and lifestyle experiences tied to the brand — before wrapping up with his five Trout Tunes playlist picks, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and premium fly-fishing gear. The Day I Disremembered Film https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DPeZm4IwHM
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 5 — Protecting the Sunshine State: The All Florida Mission With Travis Thompson
11/05/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 5 — Protecting the Sunshine State: The All Florida Mission With Travis Thompson
On today’s episode of The Trout Wrangler Podcast, we’re joined by the team behind All Florida, an organization dedicated to conserving the state’s most valuable resources — its woods, water, wildlife, and way of life. We talk about the founding story of All Florida, how their four core pillars came to define their mission, and what drives their efforts to protect and restore Florida’s ecosystems. The team breaks down the numbers — over 21 million people, 1,000+ animal species, and 4,000+ plant species — and how those realities shape their priorities in conservation and education. They share insights into current programs and campaigns, how they engage everyday Floridians to take part in meaningful change, and what the biggest challenges and wins have been so far. We also look ahead to the future of conservation in the Sunshine State and discuss what the “ideal Florida” could look like five years from now. We wrap up the episode with the guest’s five Trout Tunes playlist picks, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on premium rod holders and gear. Website: https://allflorida.org Instagram: @allfloridaorg
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season: 2 Episode 57: From Rod Builder to Content Creator Jakes Fishing Journey
10/31/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season: 2 Episode 57: From Rod Builder to Content Creator Jakes Fishing Journey
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Jake Hutcheson to talk about his journey from building rods to creating content full-time in the fly fishing world. Jake shares how his fishing journey began, how he first picked up a fly rod, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. We dive into his early days of rod building, competing in tournaments, and how each of those experiences shaped his creative process today. He opens up about the decision to quit his job and chase the dream of working full-time in fishing — the risks, rewards, and what he’s learned about staying authentic in the ever-changing world of social media. Jake also talks about balancing creativity, fishing, and the challenges of building a personal brand in today’s digital space. We wrap up the show with Jake’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 56: Columbia PFG, College Tailgates, and Conservation with Joe Berney
10/28/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 56: Columbia PFG, College Tailgates, and Conservation with Joe Berney
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Joe from Columbia PFG to talk about his journey through fly fishing, creative work, and the conservation side of the outdoor industry. Joe shares how his time at the University of Georgia helped shape his passion for content and storytelling and how it eventually led him to his current role with Columbia PFG. We dive into Columbia’s recent collaborations — including the hit Paul Puckett collection — and talk about what’s next for the brand, from future artist partnerships to upcoming conservation-focused projects. We also cover the wildly popular College Tailgate Series that’s been popping up at some of the biggest college football matchups across the country. Joe gives us an inside look at the behind-the-scenes planning, what makes these events so special, and whether fans can expect to see them continue into bowl season. And, of course, we wrap up the episode with a little Georgia football talk and Joe’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 55: Guiding, Cast n Drafts and the Skiff Shop with Langston Oxendine
10/22/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 55: Guiding, Cast n Drafts and the Skiff Shop with Langston Oxendine
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Langston Oxendine — a fly angler, guide, and skiff builder with stories that stretch from the mountains to the coast. Langston shares how his love for fishing began, where his journey with the fly rod started, and how growing up with a parent in the military gave him a chance to explore waters all across the country. We dig into his time as a trout guide, discussing both the highs and lows of guiding life — from unforgettable fish to hilarious client stories. Langston also opens up about his signature NBA jersey tradition on the water, where that idea came from, and which jersey in his rotation gets the most time on the river. From wild trout streams to saltwater flats, Langston talks about some of the amazing places he’s fished, how he started working with fiberglass, and what led him to open his skiff shop. We wrap things up by looking ahead to what’s next for Cast and Drafts and his future in the fishing and skiff-building world. Langston closes out the show with his five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on premium rod holders and gear. 📲 Social Links: Follow Langston →
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 54: Sunshine State Stories with Nate — Waterman Outfitters
10/17/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 54: Sunshine State Stories with Nate — Waterman Outfitters
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Nate from Waterman Outfitters, a Florida-based angler, designer, and advocate for conservation. Nate shares how his fishing journey began on his home waters in Florida and when he first picked up the fly rod to chase saltwater species. We dive into the story behind Waterman Outfitters — what inspired him to start the brand, his apparel design process, and how he creates gear that’s both functional and stylish. Nate also shares his top UV protection essentials for staying safe under the Florida sun, beyond just sunscreen. From partnering with Bobby Lane and Bobby Lane Jr. to creating a line that bridges freshwater and saltwater anglers, Nate talks about how Waterman Outfitters found its unique space in the fishing community. We also discuss his support for Project Sea Safe and why conservation of Florida’s fisheries should matter to every angler. Nate recaps his recent experience fishing the Poonfecta Tournament with Louis, including how Louis’s boats performed under pressure, and we wrap up the conversation with his favorite restaurant in Crystal River and five Trout Tunes picks, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on premium rod holders and gear. Social Links: Follow Waterman Outfitters → Shop apparel → RYSFLIES25 at checkout to save 25%
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 53: Fly High Eli Storytelling, Family, and Film in Fly Fishing
10/14/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 53: Fly High Eli Storytelling, Family, and Film in Fly Fishing
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Eli from Fly High Eli, a talented creator, guide, and storyteller whose work has been featured in both The Drake Magazine and the Fly Fishing Film Tour. Eli shares where his fly fishing journey began, how the Fly High Eli name came to life, and what the brand represents on a deeper level. We talk about the creative process behind his acclaimed films, what goes into scouting and producing new projects, and how he balances family life with fishing and content creation. He also dives into the lessons he’s learned while building a brand in the outdoor space, the transition from guiding to content creation, and how he uses time on the water with his kids to teach life lessons through fishing. We also chat gear — including Eli’s favorite Free Fly Apparel pieces he never leaves home without — and what’s next for Fly High Eli over the next few years, from new adventures to future collaborations. We wrap up the episode with Eli’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on premium rod holders and gear. Follow Eli on Instagram → Watch his films on YouTube →
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 52: Fighting for Georgia’s Redfish — The GSAA Mission
10/13/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ep. 52: Fighting for Georgia’s Redfish — The GSAA Mission
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with representatives from the Georgia Saltwater Anglers Association (GSAA) to talk about their mission to protect Georgia’s redfish fishery and push for science-based conservation policy. We discuss GSAA’s advocacy for maintaining a 40% Spawning Potential Ratio (SPR) — what that means, why it matters, and the potential long-term risks of lowering it. The crew also breaks down their proposed changes to Georgia’s creel and slot limits — including a 3-fish per person rule, a 9-fish vessel cap, and a captain’s “no take” policy — and why passing these measures would be a huge win for red drum along the Georgia coast. We also cover the lack of aggregate vessel limits, how GSAA collaborates with guides, anglers, and conservationists, and how their efforts connect with similar movements across the Southeast. Finally, we look ahead at what success for GSAA could mean for the fishery over the next decade. We wrap things up with the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and premium fly fishing gear. 👉 Learn more and get involved at
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 51: Chasing Stripers in Boston Hahbah with Joe Gugino
10/07/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 51: Chasing Stripers in Boston Hahbah with Joe Gugino
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Joe, a Massachusetts-based fly guide and Boston Harbor striper charter captain, to talk about his fishing journey, chasing fish along the New England coast, and what life looks like when the season winds down. Joe shares how he first got into fly fishing, what inspired him to start guiding, and how his business has grown over the years. We talk about the ins and outs of running striper fly charters in Boston Harbor — from finding bait and reading tides to handling the hustle of a short coastal season. Joe also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his second venture, The Agave Co, and how he balances business, fishing, and family life through the off-season. We wrap up the episode with Joe’s five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear. @Fishboston @Captjoegugino
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep.50: Charleston Culture & Competition w/ Conner Bryant + Sean Red Spot Round Up
10/03/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep.50: Charleston Culture & Competition w/ Conner Bryant + Sean Red Spot Round Up
In this one, I sit down with Conner Bryant, guide with Tidal Waters and one of the founders of Casts & Drafts. Conner and I talk about his early days fishing, his time in the Coast Guard and working in marine conservation, and how those experiences shaped the way he guides today. He also shares how Casts & Drafts started, how the event has grown, and where he hopes to see it 20 years from now. Then I’m joined by Sean, who helps run the Red Spot Round Up, one of Charleston’s most exciting tournaments. Sean breaks down everything you need to know — from how the tournament works, the different divisions and prizes, to this year’s turnout compared to past years. We also talk about the companies that are supporting the event and what makes the Red Spot Round Up stand out from other tournaments in the area. This episode really captures two different sides of the fishing world — the community culture with Casts & Drafts, and the competition and excitement of the Red Spot Round Up. I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate 50 episodes this season.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast S2. Ep.49: Travis Luther - Outdoor Art, Fishing and Creativity Beyond a Canvas
09/26/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast S2. Ep.49: Travis Luther - Outdoor Art, Fishing and Creativity Beyond a Canvas
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I’m joined by Florida-based artist and angler Travis Luther to talk about his journey in both fishing and art. We kick things off with Travis’ fishing story and how growing up around water in Florida shaped his love for the outdoors. From there, we dive into his art—whether he’s painting custom designs on Yeti products, wallets, and pocketbooks, or letting his imagination run free on canvas. Travis shares how customer requests guide some of his work, while other pieces start with his own vision blending hunting, fishing, and lifestyle scenes. He also talks about whether he’s ever done sports or music-themed pieces, the stories behind some of his favorite works, and what it’s like creating art for high-profile clients. Outside of fishing and art, Travis opens up about his hobbies, and what he’d spend a day doing if he wasn’t holding a brush or rod. We wrap it up with his picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, plugs for his work, and what’s next on the horizon. Check out Travis’ work at travislutherart.com and follow him on Instagram at @travislutherart . This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear.
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Season 2 Ep. 48: Fishing, Hunting, and Memes with Jake from Fish and Grits
09/23/2025
Season 2 Ep. 48: Fishing, Hunting, and Memes with Jake from Fish and Grits
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I’m joined by Jake, the creative mind behind Fish and Grits—a fishing lifestyle brand that blends saltwater culture, humor, and standout apparel. We kick things off with Jake’s fishing journey: where it all started, and how saltwater fly fishing grabbed hold of him. From there, we dive into the origin of Fish and Grits—what inspired him to start the brand, the meaning behind the name, and how he’s carved out a space in the fishing apparel world. Jake shares how he creates the hilarious sayings and designs that set his gear apart, the role social media has played in the brand’s growth, and the art of making memes that actually hit the mark. We even dig into his “Almost Friday” posts and how he picks the perfect photos that always seem spot-on. We wrap things up with a look at Jake’s life beyond fishing and apparel, and of course, he adds five songs to the Trout Tunes playlist. Check out Fish and Grits at and follow along on Instagram . This one’s a fun mix of fishing, creativity, and plenty of laughs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Head to and use code WRANGLER10 at checkout to save on rod holders and gear.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep. 47: Sun Safety & NC Delayed Harvest Stockings
09/20/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep. 47: Sun Safety & NC Delayed Harvest Stockings
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we’re covering two important topics for anglers this fall: protecting yourself from the sun and the upcoming North Carolina delayed harvest stockings. First, we talk about the realities of long days on the water—UV exposure, the importance of the right gear, sunscreen tips, and why protecting your skin should be just as much a part of your fishing setup as rods and flies. Then we shift gears to the latest stocking updates for North Carolina’s delayed harvest streams. With cooler weather and fresh fish being added, this is the time to start planning trips across the mountains and foothills. I’ll break down what anglers can expect and which stretches to keep an eye on. And of course, we wrap it all up with my college football picks and predictions, presented by Afuera Coffee—because fall in the South means trout fishing and football go hand in hand. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit and use code WRANGLER10 at checkout to save 10%.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 46: Striper Runs, Art, and Stories with Joel Stoehr
09/17/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 46: Striper Runs, Art, and Stories with Joel Stoehr
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I’m joined by Joel Stoehr—an artist, teacher, and passionate striper fisherman. We start with Joel’s fishing journey and how stripers became a core part of his life on the water. From his love for fly fishing to what keeps him chasing these powerful fish, Joel shares what makes the striper game so special. We also dive into Joel’s artistic background—how painting and sculpture shaped his path before transitioning into teaching and design. He explains how he balances art, education, and administration while still keeping an active creative practice. Joel talks about his favorite piece of artwork, his unexpected feature in a David Goggins book, and even shares his perspective as a witness to the infamous “Manhole Cover Zyn” story with Javi and Marsh Bum. Of course, we wrap up with Joel’s picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist and final plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit and use code WRANGLER10 at checkout to save 10%.
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 45: Fly Fishing Media & Minnesota Waters with Ketter
09/13/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 45: Fly Fishing Media & Minnesota Waters with Ketter
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I’m joined by Ketter to dive into his fly fishing journey, building a media presence, and balancing fishing with content creation. We kick things off with how and when his fishing journey began—and whether it started with a fly rod from the start. From there, we talk about the waters of Minnesota, comparing freestone rivers, tailwaters, and spring creeks, and what makes each one unique. We dig into what sparked his idea to start a YouTube channel and podcast, how he manages editing, posting, and staying consistent on multiple platforms while still holding down a job, and which video has been his favorite to make this year. Ketter also shares his favorite part of podcasting, where he’s seen the most social media growth—YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram—and what his hobbies look like outside of fishing. From hunting trips to talking sports, this episode covers a little bit of everything. This one’s packed with perspective on fishing, media, and keeping the balance. This episode is brought to you by Riversmith USA, Bajio Sunglasses, Free Fly Apparel and Temple Fork Outfitter @Ketteratthecabin Instagram and TikTok
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Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 44: Healing Waters with Ben Burgess of PHWFF
09/10/2025
Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2. Ep. 44: Healing Waters with Ben Burgess of PHWFF
On today’s episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I’m joined by Ben Burgess, Regional Coordinator for Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing. We kick things off with Ben’s journey—what inspired him to join Project Healing Waters and how his path led him to the role of Regional Coordinator. He explains what the position actually entails, how it differs from a local program lead, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with overseeing multiple chapters. From starting new programs to ensuring each chapter maintains the same high-quality experience while still embracing its local flavor, Ben shares how his work helps expand healing through fly fishing and camaraderie across his region. We also dig into the power of partnerships—how fly shops, sponsors, and communities sustain these programs—and Ben recalls some unforgettable transformations that remind him why this mission matters so deeply. Finally, we look ahead: what’s next for Project Healing Waters, how outdoor-based therapy for veterans might evolve, and how this work has changed Ben personally and professionally. This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Head to riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear. @PHWFF
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