Saltwater Edge Podcast - Sharing Our Passion For Saltwater Fishing

On the Saltwater Edge Podcast, all aspects of saltwater fishing are discussed, including surfcasting, saltwater fly fishing, saltwater fly tying, light tackle fishing, bottom fishing, offshore fishing, and flats fishing. You will learn the tackle, tactics, and tips from some of the best saltwater anglers on the coast for popular species like striped bass, false albacore, tautog, fluke, bluefin tuna, bonefish, permit, tarpon, roosterfish, and giant trevally. We will also focus from time to time on fisheries management, conservation, and specific saltwater destinations. The Saltwater Edge exists to share our passion for saltwater fishing...from bonefish to bluefin.

Surfcasting Alphas: Pete Utschig on Big Fish, Tides, and Tactical Preparation 06/02/2025

Captain Brian Kelly - Bunker School Strategy: Lures, Spoons & Flies 05/19/2025

Captain Brian Kelly - Bunker School Strategy: Lures, Spoons & Flies In this episode of the Saltwater Edge Podcast, host Peter Jenkins sits down with Captain Brian Kelly, a New England light tackle and fly fishing guide with deep knowledge of Cape Cod and Massachusetts Bay. Brian shares his journey from Montana guide school to full-time guiding on his Parker 18', and gives a tactical breakdown of fishing around bunker schools—from identifying bait behavior to deploying the right gear. We talk seasonal shifts, bait dynamics, and how to approach stripers, albies, and bluefin with the right presentation—whether you’re throwing a soft plastic, flutter spoon, or a bunker-matching fly. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Brian’s path from Montana guide school to Massachusetts waters 01:30 – Lessons from senior guides on building a sustainable guiding career 03:30 – Off-season travel: Cuba, steelhead, and trout across the northeast 04:45 – South vs. North Cape Cod: tides, temperature, and strategy 07:00 – How bait and water temp influence striper migration 08:30 – Cape Cod Canal as a funnel for biomass movement 10:30 – Bait breakdown: River herring vs. bunker behavior 12:45 – How fish stage, rest, and digest in warm backwaters 14:50 – What drives bait movement: estuary dynamics and spring conditions 16:00 – Squid and peanut bunker: underrated keys to early and late season bites 18:00 – When tuna show up: dabbling in the bluefin game 20:10 – 2022: A season defined by stable bunker, predators, and insane biomass 22:30 – What triggers the fall run: tides, temp drops, and migration instinct 24:30 – How bunker behave in different parts of a bay system 26:30 – Identifying “happy” vs. “stressed” bait to pick your tactics 28:00 – Lure tactics: soft plastics, paddletails, docks, and retrieves that work 33:00 – Magic swimmers, Sluggos, and when to slow it all down 37:30 – Locating bunker: ledges, mooring fields, side scan, and sonar tips 43:00 – Flutter spoons: setup, depth, retrieve, and boat positioning 47:00 – Leader, knot, and rod recommendations for spoon fishing 48:30 – Fly fishing bunker schools: presentation, lines, and setting up drifts 53:00 – Why fishing structure can be better than targeting chaos 55:00 – Dredging with sinking lines vs. casting to active fish 57:00 – Teasing, bait-and-switch, and fly rod practicality in deep water 59:00 – Lessons from clients and staying sharp as a guide Shop bunker-focused tackle and fly gear at /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/36626935

Tammy King: Surfcasting, Island Life, and Building a Fishing Community 04/30/2025

Tammy King: Surfcasting, Island Life, and Building a Fishing Community Tammy King: Surfcasting, Island Life, and Building a Fishing Community | Saltwater Edge Podcast In this episode of the Saltwater Edge Podcast, we’re joined by Tammy King — a Nantucket native, surfcasting expert, and founder of Fish Girl Guides. Raised in a charter captain family, Tammy shares how her early beach days turned into a lifetime passion for fishing, teaching, and community building. We explore growing up on Nantucket, surfcasting sandy beaches, empowering women in fishing, and Tammy’s adventurous trips beyond the island. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Tammy and her Nantucket roots 01:16 – Growing up with charter captain parents 02:27 – Discovering a love for fishing early on 03:12 – What made Nantucket special — and how it's changed 04:12 – Fishing culture, local tournaments, and community spirit 07:17 – How Tammy built her guiding business 09:04 – Surfcasting access on Nantucket: beaches, trucks, and tides 11:11 – Hotspots: reefs, jetties, and where to find fish 12:09 – How to read sand beaches and surf structure 14:19 – The impact of erosion on fishing spots 15:50 – Tammy’s clients: beginners, weddings, and learning to fish 17:09 – Year-round fishing at Nantucket Anglers’ Club 20:03 – Freshwater action: white perch, crappie, and pond stripers 21:14 – Tammy's Louisiana redfish adventure with Journey Outfitters 23:26 – Challenges and safety tips for women in fishing 26:43 – Tammy’s women-only surfcasting course 29:14 – Gear struggles: women's waders and boots 31:12 – Dream fish, surfcasting travel goals, and roosterfish 34:02 – Targeting striped bass from the sand: tips and strategy 38:16 – Nantucket’s first striper arrivals in spring 40:52 – Tammy’s favorite lures for sand beaches 44:06 – Resources Tammy recommends for learning fishing skills 46:12 – Teaching casting basics and common beginner mistakes 48:12 – Watching new anglers grow and succeed 49:19 – Why women are natural surfcasters 50:14 – Tammy’s dream “last fishing day” on Nantucket 51:25 – How to book a trip with Tammy King (Fish Girl Guides) Follow Tammy: Instagram @fishgirlack Recommended by local tackle shops on Nantucket! ️ Enjoying the show? Subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your fishing friends! /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/36376180

Ralph Craft: Saltwater Fishing and Strong Communities 04/03/2025

Ross Kessler - Planning Your DIY Bonefish Trip 03/17/2025

Ross Kessler - Planning Your DIY Bonefish Trip Bonefishing is one of the most thrilling saltwater experiences an angler can have, and planning a DIY trip adds an extra layer of challenge and reward. Whether you're heading to the Bahamas, Belize, or Mexico, a self-guided flats fishing adventure requires careful planning and a strategic approach. In this guide, based on insights from seasoned DIY angler Ross Kessler, we’ll cover everything you need to know to execute a successful DIY bonefish trip—from planning and tides to gear and tactics. For many anglers, DIY bonefishing is the ultimate test of skill and preparation. Instead of relying on a guide, you take full responsibility for finding fish, choosing the right fly, and executing the perfect cast. It’s an adventure that requires patience, observation, and a bit of trial and error. Show notes: In this episode of the Saltwater Edge podcast, host Peter Jenkins talks with Ross Kessler, a seasoned DIY bonefish angler with about 20 years of experience. They discuss various tackle tactics, key observations, and best practices for DIY inshore fishing trips, diving deep into fisheries management, conservation, and specific destinations. Ross shares invaluable tips on trip planning, including the importance of tides, preparation, logistics, gear, and the significance of short-game casting, among other insights. They also touch on the role and benefits of hiring local guides to enhance the fishing experience. The episode is packed with practical advice for passionate anglers looking to embark on their own DIY fishing adventures. 00:00 Introduction to the Saltwater Edge Podcast 00:35 Guest Introduction: Ross Kessler 01:06 The Appeal of DIY Fishing 02:50 Planning Your DIY Fishing Trip 05:18 Tides and Timing 10:57 Packing and Preparation 14:24 Navigating and Accessing Fishing Spots 26:30 Essential Gear for Solo Fishing 26:45 Staying Hydrated and Cool 28:37 Clothing and Sun Protection 29:10 Fishing Gear Essentials 31:23 Fly Selection and Techniques 33:49 The Importance of Local Guides 36:24 Casting Techniques and Tips 42:39 Fly Recommendations for DIY Trips 49:31 Conservation and Ethical Fishing 51:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/35730955

Elliott Thomas - The Evolution of 247 Lures 03/03/2025

Elliott Thomas - The Evolution of 247 Lures For over a decade, 24/7 Lures has been a staple in the world of custom wooden fishing lures, crafting high-quality, small-batch plugs designed for serious surf casters. In a recent episode of the Saltwater Edge Podcast, we sat down with Elliot Thomas, owner of 24/7 Lures, to discuss the evolution of wooden lure design, fishing tactics, and the impact of conservation-minded rigging. The History and Evolution of 24/7 Lures Elliot Thomas took over 24/7 Lures in 2017 after acquiring the brand from Jeff Dunbar, who had previously acquired it from Al Gag. The company has maintained its dedication to high-quality craftsmanship while incorporating modern refinements. Over the years, 24/7 Lures has redesigned several of their classic models to improve performance and longevity. One of the company’s most notable recent innovations is the introduction of flag-rigged lures, designed to reduce post-release mortality for striped bass. Studies have shown that a single belly hook combined with a flag on the back of the lure significantly decreases injury to released fish, making this setup a game-changer for conservation-conscious anglers. Why Needlefish and Darters Are Essential During our conversation, Elliot emphasized the effectiveness of needlefish and darter lures, two of his personal favorites. He noted that needlefish lures are incredibly versatile, mimicking various baitfish and moving through the water naturally. Darters, on the other hand, provide a more subtle but equally effective presentation, often enticing strikes when other lures fail. “Needlefish and darters do something no other lure does,” Elliot explained. “They sneak through the water naturally, presenting a subtle but irresistible target for striped bass.” The Role of Color in Lure Selection Color is often a hot topic among anglers, and Elliot had a refreshing take on it: “I don’t think color matters nearly as much as people think.” While some fishermen swear by specific colors for different conditions, Elliot believes that presentation, movement, and silhouette are far more important than the color itself. However, he does recognize the importance of contrast, particularly in topwater lures like spooks and pencils. “When I’m fishing a spook, I want it to stand out. That’s where a bright head or contrasting back can really help,” he noted. Conservation Efforts: Flag-Rigged Lures for a Healthier Fishery One of the most important takeaways from our discussion was the push towards conservation-focused lure rigging. The traditional treble hook setup has long been associated with increased injury to fish, but recent studies have demonstrated that switching to a single belly hook and a flag on the rear of the lure can cut post-release mortality rates to under 4%. “Jerry Audet and Dave Anderson have been huge proponents of this change,” Elliot said. “For me, it was an easy decision. We already knew single hooks were better for fish, and the study just confirmed it.” The Craft of Lure Building and Future Innovations Beyond fishing strategy, Elliot also shared insights into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each 24/7 lure. From hand-sealed and painted wooden bodies to carefully tested weighting and balance, every lure is a product of both tradition and modern innovation. When asked about future plans, Elliot hinted at continuing to refine existing models and possibly expanding the range to include more conservation-friendly options. “I’m not here to reinvent the wheel,” he said. “But I do want to make sure we’re making the best lures possible while keeping the fishery healthy.” Where to Find 24/7 Lures If you’re interested in trying out 24/7 Lures for yourself, you can find them online at . Elliot also frequently attends tackle shows, offering anglers the chance to see his work in person and talk shop. For more expert fishing insights, tackle tips, and conservation updates, be sure to subscribe to the Saltwater Edge Podcast and follow us for future episodes! Key Takeaways from This Episode: 24/7 Lures carries on a legacy of high-quality wooden lure craftsmanship. Needlefish and darters are must-have lures for striped bass anglers. Color matters less than presentation—contrast is more important. Switching to flag-rigged lures significantly reduces post-release mortality. Handmade lures continue to offer unmatched quality and performance. For more information, visit or stop by Saltwater Edge to explore the latest in custom wooden plugs! /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/35487685

Dr Aaron Adams - Discovering Saltwater Secrets 02/03/2025

Dr Aaron Adams - Discovering Saltwater Secrets The Saltwater Edge Podcast recently welcomed a special guest, Dr. Aaron Adams—an esteemed marine scientist, author, and avid angler with over 35 years of experience in fish ecology and conservation. As the Director of Science and Conservation at Bonefish Tarpon Trust, Dr. Adams bridges the gap between complex scientific research and practical fishing advice, making him the perfect voice for anglers eager to deepen their understanding of saltwater habitats. Insights From Dr. Adams Growing up near the Chesapeake Bay, Dr. Adams witnessed firsthand the impact of ecosystem decline. This early exposure ignited his lifelong dedication to fish conservation and ecological research. His books and work emphasize the importance of habitat-focused angling, flipping the traditional script of “chasing fish” by encouraging anglers to start by studying the environment first. Books Mentioned in the Podcast During the conversation, host Peter Jenkins referenced several of Dr. Adams’ works that have become essential reading for anglers seeking to level up their fishing game: Fisherman’s Coast A foundational guide that introduces the importance of understanding habitat when fishing, covering everything from coastal ecosystems to tidal influences. Saltwater Prey This book dives deeper into the behaviors of prey species and how anglers can match the patterns to outsmart game fish. The Orvis Guide to Fly Fishing for Coastal Gamefish Expanding on Fisherman’s Coast, this guide includes updates on tides, fish vision, and how different habitats influence fishing strategies. For those looking to sharpen their angling skills and apply ecological principles, these books are invaluable. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just beginning your saltwater journey, tuning into this podcast episode is a step toward fishing smarter by understanding the intricate dance between predator, prey, and habitat. Show Notes: 00:33 Meet Dr. Aaron Adams: Marine Scientist and Avid Angler 02:19 The Science Behind Fishing Techniques 04:54 Understanding Fish Behavior and Habitat 07:31 Fishing in Different Environments 11:03 Impact of Environmental Factors on Fishing 26:55 Exploring New Fishing Spots 34:45 The Onboard Computer of Fishing 35:19 The Debate on Keeping Logs 38:06 Broadcast Spawning Explained 42:36 Economic Impact of Fisheries 44:51 The Intersection of Science and Fishing 54:05 Tips for Better Angling 01:04:20 Bonefish Tarpon Trust Initiatives 01:07:05 Conclusion and Resources /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/35134055

Winter Fun at The Saltwater Edge 01/22/2025

Tony Friedrich ASGA President - Take Care Of The Fish And They Will Take Care Of You 01/06/2025

Tony Friedrich ASGA President - Take Care Of The Fish And They Will Take Care Of You Today’s guest on the Saltwater Edge Podcast is a passionate, lifelong fisherman and a tough salty bastard, but those are table stakes for being an effective fisheries advocate. Stir in a deep respect for the past and an unwavering ability to focus on “fish first” as your North Star, and you get the best in the game. The American Saltwater Guides Association is a young organization founded in 2018 that has grown rapidly due to its core values of science, education, and advocacy. Today’s guest conceived of an organization with a “fish first science-based” approach to fisheries management. He recruited me to serve as Chairman, which has been some of the most gratifying work of my career. He is the rare combination of a patient strategist playing the long game and a very effective “sales guy” when he sees the right opportunity. Please welcome the 2024 Garden and Gun Conservation Award winner, ASGA President and Policy Director and “not everybody's cup of tea” Tony Friedrich. Show notes: Peter Jenkins, the host of the Saltwater Edge podcast, interviews Tony Friedrich, President and Policy Director of the American Saltwater Guide Association. They discuss various fishing tactics, fisheries management, and conservation efforts. Friedrich shares his journey from growing up passionate about fishing, influenced by his family and mentors like Lefty Kreh, to leading impactful advocacy work with ASGA. They highlight ASGA's science-based approach to fisheries management, focusing on public education and building an 'advocate army' to influence policy. Key discussions include the economic impact of fisheries, challenges in fisheries management, and current efforts to protect species like striped bass and false albacore. 00:34 Introducing Today's Guest: Tony Friedrich 01:44 Tony's Early Life and Passion for Fishing 08:20 Mentorship and Influences: Lefty Kreh 20:34 Fisheries Management and Conservation Efforts 22:24 Challenges in Fisheries Advocacy 32:12 The Importance of False Albacore Management 34:54 Hitting a Wall: The Need for Science 35:12 Community Engagement and Advocacy 35:54 Building an Advocate Army 36:35 Success Stories and Wins 37:17 Skill Training for Advocacy 37:48 The Importance of a Unified Voice 38:55 Upcoming Events and Key Dates 40:09 Expanding Conservation Efforts 45:12 Economic Impact of Fisheries 48:57 The Value of Recreational Fisheries 55:58 Challenges and Future Directions 59:55 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/34758870

Captain Craig Cantelmo - The History of Van Staal Fishing Products 12/23/2024

John Skinner - The Surfcasting Scientist - Northeast Edition 12/09/2024

2024 Gear Highlights, saltwater Fishing Tips & Stories 11/24/2024

Scott Bennett - Insights From Striped Bass Magic Research Program 09/06/2024

Scott Bennett - Insights From Striped Bass Magic Research Program Scott Bennett is the Program Director for the Marine Biologic Lab’s Striped Bass Magic research program and the MBL’s Marine Resources Department manager. He grew up in Chicago fishing in freshwater lakes. As a teenager, he started coming to Cape Cod during the summers, where he developed a love for saltwater fishing. He earned a BA in Marine Biology from Roger Williams University in 2005 and a Master's Degree in Comparative Physiology focusing on cranial endothermy in tunas from Cal State Fullerton in 2013. Prior to graduate school, he spent several years at the American Museum of Natural History in the Department of Ichthyology, assisting with research on understanding the evolutionary relationships between various species of fish. Marine Biologic Lab’s Striped Bass Magic research program is doing great work to better understand the biology and movements of striped bass. They conduct their ongoing research in Eel Pond which is home to a seasonally resident striped bass population, some of which have returned to this same pond for multiple years in a row. the longitudinal data they have collected has been very beneficial to understanding striped bass biology and movements. If you want to learn more about their research, check out the The discussion covers a range of topics including the behavior, migration, and habits of striped bass in various environments. Bennett elaborates on the research methodologies used, including PIT and acoustic telemetry tags, and their findings, such as the correlation between striped bass movements and barometric pressure. The conversation also delves into the application of AI in fish identification and a collaborative research project with the Wampanoag tribe at Squibnocket. Jenkins and Bennett reflect on how this extensive research can influence recreational fishing practices and policies. 00:36 Meet Today's Guest: Marine Biologist Scott Bennett 02:37 The Striped Bass Magic Research Program 05:03 Tagging Techniques and Tools 08:04 Behavioral Patterns and Circadian Rhythms 24:26 Individual vs. Group Behavior 29:56 Investigating Striped Bass Migrations 31:06 Experiments with Fingerlings and Iron Deposits 32:48 Adult Fish and Electromagnetic Field Experiments 33:45 Tagging and Tracking Striped Bass 38:48 AI in Fish Identification 45:10 Collaborative Research with Squibnocket Native American Tribe 52:33 Concluding Thoughts and Future Research /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/32944612

John Field - Fly Fishing For Trophy Striped Bass 07/10/2024

Nick Mayer - A Saltwater Fishing Journey From Sketch Books To Mastery 04/24/2024

Blane Chocklett - Bringing Flies To Life 04/10/2024

Captain Chris Aubut - Raised By Saltwater 03/27/2024

Bill Wetzel - Montauk Surf Rat 03/06/2024

Bill Wetzel - Montauk Surf Rat Bill Wetzel has guided the Montauk surf for over 25 years. He is one of the most requested anglers that you, the Saltwater Edge Podcast listeners, have ever asked for. Not surprisingly, his live social posts that he records driving home after a night of surfcasting in the Montauk surf are a masterclass in the thought process of what makes great anglers great—traits like focus, observation, and a deep understanding of seasonal bait migrations and more. Bill has hosted the Surf Rats Ball Surf Fishing Tournament for over a decade. He has donated 100% of the proceeds to Kids Need More, a non-profit that is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and their families who are coping with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. That’s an awesome display of compassion and commitment. Learn more at Show Notes: 00:34 Introducing the Guest: A Surf Casting Legend 01:44 The Guest's Arrival and Initial Conversation 02:03 Discussing Fishing Tactics and Strategies 03:06 Understanding Bait Migrations and Fishing Seasons 05:00 The Art of Surf Fishing: Techniques and Tips 07:01 The Importance of Observation in Fishing 07:43 The Role of Bait in Fishing Success 10:05 The Intricacies of Fishing Locations and Conditions 12:41 The Importance of Focus and Observation in Fishing 15:19 Understanding and Navigating Fishing Structures 18:46 The Role of Passion and Preparation in Fishing Success 22:57 The Importance of Keeping a Fishing Log 37:51 Discussing the Magic Minutes Talk 37:58 Understanding the Importance of Wind and Tide in Fishing 38:34 The Art of Spotting and Breaking Down Fishing Locations 39:07 Balancing Fishing with Personal Life 40:21 The Intricacies of Fishing in Different Conditions 42:28 The Importance of Knowledge and Experience in Fishing 46:16 The Changing Landscape of Montauk 53:00 The Role of Equipment in Fishing 01:03:51 The Final Fishing Day Dream Scenario 01:06:57 The Impact of Surf Rats Ball on Kids with Cancer 01:09:01 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements /episode/index/show/saltwateredge/id/30257598