Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast Dave Stewart

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/599

Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory, FishHound Expeditions, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Togiak River Lodge
What do you do when your favorite spot is packed with other anglers or when you're navigating crowded rivers all day? Today we uncover expert tips on fly fishing pressured waters and gain exclusive insights from Nick Conklin of Temple Fork Outfitters.
Learn about choosing the perfect rod for your next adventure, why local shows are game-changers, and the secrets behind TFO's big game rods.
If you're a TFO enthusiast like me, you won't want to miss this update on one of the leading rod companies in the industry!
Show Notes with Nick Conklin on Fly Fishing Pressured Waters. 
2:29 - Growing up in Michigan, Nick Conklin had the privilege of fishing in a 70-acre private lake and exploring the nearby Pere Marquette River.
Nick's interest in fly fishing sparked when he was eight after reading an Ernest Hemingway story, leading him to learn fly casting, tying flies, and exploring various fishing opportunities.
While Nick's childhood fishing grounds were in Michigan, he's now based in Dallas, Texas, where he continues to explore fishing on the Texas coast.
Nick's Journey to TFO
4:31 - Initially involved in outdoor journalism, Nick's passion for fishing and writing led him to TFO. He started with part-time work and eventually moved into various roles, from warranty services to product category management.
6:54 - Nick oversees product design, development, sales, and marketing for the fly fishing division. He collaborates with industry experts, manages trade shows, and engages with dealers and consumers to promote TFO products.
Temple Fork Outiftters
7:55 - TFO offers a diverse range of fishing rods, from small trout and panfish rods to heavy-duty boat rods for saltwater fishing. They cover both conventional and fly fishing categories.
9:36 - Nick tells us about their collaboration with Jason Randall on rod projects, including the Drift series.
Recommendations for New Fly Fishers
Nick suggests starting with a combo kit like the NXT Black Label Kit. Here's a summary of his recommendations and insights:
Combo kits provide everything a beginner needs, including the rod, reel, backing, fly line, and leader, making it easier to get started without worrying about individual components.
New anglers should consider their budget and what type of fishing they plan to do the most. This helps in choosing the right rod weight and length for their needs.
Combo kits often come with a practice fly line, allowing beginners to practice casting without worrying about damaging an expensive fly line.
Casting Tips
18:00 - Nick emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from qualified educators or casting instructors who can help beginners navigate the casting process effectively.
Local fly shops, fly fishing clubs, and online resources like Google searches can be invaluable in finding resources and communities to support learning.
While it may require an investment, hiring a guide can significantly accelerate the learning curve and provide valuable insights into fishing techniques, specific waters, and asking pertinent questions.
Fly Fishing Pressured Waters
21:00 - Nick's upcoming book, Fly Fishing Pressured Western Rivers, is scheduled for release by the end of 2024. The book aims to address the challenges of fishing on heavily pressured rivers, particularly in Western regions.
Navigating crowded rivers and finding success can be challenging but rewarding. Here are some valuable tips from Nick:
Preparation: Focus on organizing gear, practicing casting skills, and refining your approach before hitting the water to maximize fishing time.
Observation: Spend time observing other anglers' techniques and approaches to learn from their successes and challenges.
Flexibility: Stay open to adjusting your fishing strategies based on seasonal conditions, time of day, and weather to

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/598
Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Skwala, Togens Fly Shop
Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors
In this episode, we dive into the rich history of the Golden Gate Casting Club with Jim Dawson, the club's resident historian. Discover the revolutionary impact of a young orphan who reshaped fly casting technology, linking his innovations directly to the tech you use today, like your iPhone. Jim shares captivating stories from the club’s past, including tales about legendary figures like Jimmy Green, whose techniques and inventions propelled fly fishing into the future. Tune in to uncover the roots of modern fly casting and get inspired by the techniques that top anglers have used to dominate the sport.
Episode Chapters
(0:00:05) – Introduction to the Golden Gate Casting Club
Exploring the connection between historical casting champions and modern fly casting technology, with an introduction to the episode's focus on the Golden Gate Casting Club.
(0:02:13) – The Legacy of Jim Dawson and the Casting Club
Jim Dawson discusses the historical significance of the club and its impact on fly casting competitions and innovations in the United States.
(0:03:36) – The Innovations of Jimmy Green
A deep dive into how Jimmy Green's innovations in rod and line design have influenced modern fly fishing, including anecdotes about his life and contributions.
(0:07:22) – Mono Running Lines and Their Origin
Discussion on the origins and development of mono running lines at the Golden Gate Casting Club and their impact on fly fishing technology.
(0:10:45) – The Role of the Golden Gate Casting Club in Modern Fly Fishing
Jim elaborates on the club's role in shaping the practices and technologies used in contemporary fly fishing, including spay casting.
(0:15:00) – Evolution of Fly Casting Techniques and Competitions
Insights into the evolution of fly casting techniques and the structure of modern casting competitions, highlighting the club's ongoing influence.
(0:19:55) – Historical Anecdotes and Guest Stories
Jim shares memorable stories from past club members and significant events that have marked the club’s history.
(0:23:38) – The Intersection of Technology and Fly Fishing
Discussion on how advancements in technology have intertwined with fly fishing practices, featuring stories about Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak.
(0:27:04) – Q&A: Insights into Fly Casting and Conservation
Listeners ask questions about fly casting techniques and conservation efforts related to fly fishing, with Jim providing expert answers.
(0:30:15) – Closing Thoughts and Future of Fly Fishing
Jim reflects on the future of fly fishing and the role of innovative thinking in sustaining the sport's growth and ecological responsibility.
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/598

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/597
 
Presented By: TroutRoutes, Guide Book, Skwala, FishHound Expeditions 
Are you interested to know how to target one of the craziest hatches that will make national headlines this year?
Today, Dave Zielinski is back on the podcast to give his best tips on fishing the Cicada hatch, including how to predict when and where to find them and how to have success when you're out on the water.
Time for some cicada madness with a sprinkle of boat building!
Show Notes with David Zielinski on Cicada Madness. 
1:27 - It's great to have David back on the show after our last episode where we delved into boat building. Today, though, we're shifting gears to focus on cicadas.
5:24 - Dave Zielinski's book, Cicada Madness,  explores the timing, fishing techniques, and patterns essential for understanding and enjoying epic cicada emergences. Periodical cicadas emerge in synchronized cycles, akin to mayfly hatches
Cicada Madness: The Rare Cicada Emergence of 2024
10:31 - This year, a rare and significant event involving two distinct broods of periodical cicadas is set to occur. The emergence is expected to impact between 17 to 20 states, spanning from the bottom of Wisconsin to the coastal areas of Alabama and Louisiana.
The Cicada Lifecycle
15:48 - Cicadas have a 13 or 17-year lifecycle, spending most of their time underground as nymphs. The adult cicadas emerge to mate, lay eggs, and then die, continuing the cycle.
The trigger for emergence is when the ground soil reaches around 64 degrees Fahrenheit at about eight inches deep. This happens rapidly over a few days in early summer when days are longer and the soil warms up due to increased sunshine.

Success on the Water with Cicadas
24:48 - Success in cicada fishing hinges on understanding the bug's lifecycle and emergence timing. Fish only start targeting cicadas when enough of them accidentally fall into the water, signaling to the fish that it's a food source.
Dave emphasizes the importance of knowing where and when to be on the water. His book delves into detailed experiences and strategies for effectively targeting and fishing during cicada emergence.
Cicada Fishing Techniques and Patterns
27:19 - Dave's book features 59 cicada patterns, including annual, periodical, and regional variations. Cicada fishing is often non-technical, favoring dry fly fishing techniques, although some fish prefer drag-free drifts while others go for actively moving cicadas.
Fishing near mature trees where cicadas congregate is effective, as they often get knocked down by wind or during mating flights. Target areas where cicadas are likely to fall into the water, such as under trees or along riverbanks where the bugs lose elevation and hit the water.
33:41 - Trouts are avid cicada eaters and can consume them without getting full, making them a prime target during cicada emergences in trout waters. Carp are particularly enthusiastic about cicadas despite being bottom feeders.
Other fish species like smallmouth bass, weird fish, and even catfish can also be caught on cicada patterns, although their response may vary based on factors like spawning cycles or food availability.
Cicada Madness: Key Tips for Cicada Fishing
36:34 - Cicadas are true bugs, belonging to a group of insects with beaks that extract nutrients from plants, similar to leaf hoppers.
Worldwide, there are over 3000 species of cicadas, each with a distinctive appearance characterized by stout bodies, bulging eyes, six legs, and two pairs of wings. Here are a few key tips as you gear up for cicada fishing:
Research and hunt for cicadas in areas where they're expected to emerge.
Be observant of your surroundings. Listen for the distinct sound of cicadas and watch for bird activity that may indicate their presence.
Use large foam cicada patterns without popping or twitching them, as cicadas hitting the water tend to lay silently, mimicking a natural scenario for fish to strike

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/596
Presented By: Northern Rockies Adventures, TroutRoutes, Jackson Hole Fly Company
Try to imagine what a 200-pound shark hooked up on the end of your fly rod and jumping 20 feet out of the water would feel like. Hooking sharks on the fly is what today's guest specializes in.
In this episode, Conway Bowman is going to take us into his wild world of mako shark fly fishing. Find out where to find these fish, how to pop your fly to these giants, and the thrilling experience of fighting a top predator on a fly rod.
Show Notes with Conway Bowman on Mako Shark Fly Fishing. 

2:00 - Conway Bowman's passion for fishing began at a young age. He grew up around the water and spent summers in Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains. His journey into fly fishing for Mako Sharks began when a friend suggested it, leading Conway to explore offshore waters until he finally hooked his first Mako.
7:55 - Despite not seeing himself as a rockstar in fly fishing, Conway's focus on targeting Mako Sharks has made him a recognized figure due to his unique approach and expertise.
The World of Mako Shark Fly Fishing
8:60 - Between 2007 and 2013, the demand for Mako Shark fly fishing surged, leading Conway to expand his operation and hire additional guides.
At one point, there were a few guides besides Conway involved in Mako Shark fly fishing, but due to the physical demands and logistical challenges, he became the primary figure in the field.

The Mako Shark: The Ultimate Game Fish
Makos are true predators, actively tracking and attacking live prey, which adds to the thrill of targeting them on the fly. They are known for their acrobatics, being the only sharks that can jump up to 20 feet out of the water.
18:00 - Depending on the size, landing a Mako shark can range from 15 minutes to over three hours. When landing, a release stick is used to safely handle the fish, applying pressure to release them.
24:00 - Conway primarily uses poppers when fly fishing for Makos. Other species like leopard sharks and blue sharks can also be targeted with poppers, especially off the beach for leopard sharks.
Mako Shark Life History
26:00 -  Mako Sharks typically arrive in Southern California around May to breed, with large females giving birth to 5-10 live pups.
Pups stay in the safer Southern California waters until they're a few hundred pounds, feeding on smaller fish like tunas and barracudas. As they grow to 300-400 pounds, their diet shifts to larger prey like seals and sea lions.
During colder months, Makos migrate, possibly to regions of Mexico, before returning in waves from April to November, with peak presence from June to August
Best Time to Visit for Mako Shark Fly Fishing
28:22 - Conway recommends mid-May through August and then October through November for Mako Shark fly fishing in Southern California. July is considered prime time for Mako Shark fishing.
Gear for Mako Shark Fishing
Conway uses specialized equipment tailored for handling these powerful predators. Here's a breakdown of the gear he uses:
Rod: Starts with a 14-weight rod and then uses custom-made one-piece rods for larger Makos above 200 pounds.
Reels: Various big game reels suitable for marlin or tuna fishing, with 800 yards of backing.
Casting Technique: Uses an anchor cast technique, avoiding false casts, to efficiently get the fly from point A to point B within 30 feet.
Fly Design: Employs a tube fly that slides up and down the leader, ensuring easy release and retrieval without leaving a big hook hanging from the shark's mouth.
Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/596
 
 

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/595
Join us in this episode of In the Bucket where Dano Pendygrasse and Darcy Bacha, renowned snowboarding photographers, dive into the vibrant world of fly fishing through their lenses. Discover how their decades of experience in snowboarding have shaped their approach to capturing the serene beauty of fly fishing. Dano and Darcy discuss the transition from the adrenaline of snowboarding shoots to the tranquil riversides, reflecting on the artistry and patience required in both disciplines. They share personal stories and professional insights on making passions into careers, the challenges of photography in extreme conditions, and the unexpected joys of exploring new waters. Whether you're a fan of their snowboarding work or looking to improve your fishing photography skills, this episode offers a unique perspective on embracing change and finding new passions.
Episode Chapters
(0:00:05) – Introduction to Guests - Introduction of Dano Pendygrasse and Darcy Bacha, discussing their backgrounds as iconic snowboarding photographers who have transitioned into the realm of fly fishing photography.
(0:05:22) – The Link Between Snowboarding and Fly Fishing - Exploring how skills and experiences from snowboarding photography have influenced their approach to capturing the essence of fly fishing.
(0:14:39) – The Shift from Snowboarding to Fishing - Darcy and Dano discuss their personal reasons for shifting their focus from the dynamic world of snowboarding to the more serene and reflective activity of fly fishing.
(0:22:10) – Photographic Techniques in Extreme Conditions - Techniques and challenges faced while photographing in various environmental conditions, from icy mountains to humid riverbanks.
(0:30:45) – Balancing Passion and Work - A discussion on the importance of maintaining passion in your work and the balance between professional photography and personal fishing time.
(0:41:33) – The Evolution of Photography Gear - Insight into the evolution of photography equipment over the years and how advances have affected their work in both snowboarding and fishing photography.
(0:51:17) – Stories from the Field - Engaging stories from their careers that highlight unexpected moments and the personal growth they experienced through their professional journeys.
(1:03:50) – Future of Photography with AI and Technology - A conversation about the potential impacts of AI on professional photography and their views on the future of capturing images in natural environments.
(1:15:28) – Advice for Aspiring Photographers - Practical advice for up-and-coming photographers on how to succeed in the competitive field of sports and outdoor photography.
(1:27:45) – Closing Thoughts - Final thoughts and reflections on the importance of following your passions, whether in the wilds of nature or through the lens of a camera.
Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/595

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/594
Presented By: Togiak River Lodge, Northern Rockies Adventures, Yellowstone Teton Territory, Togens Fly Shop
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to reel in a massive tarpon? Or perhaps you're curious about the critical factors in preserving bonefish, tarpon, and permit populations?
Today, we dive deep into the conservation with Mark Rehbein from the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Join us as we unravel why these three species are important for conservation efforts and explore the key habitats that need protection.
Show Notes with Mark Rehbein on  Bonefish & Tarpon Trust.
2:40 - Mark Rehbein started fly fishing at a young age due to his father's involvement in making Potomac River bass fishing videos. This project led them to connect with Lefty Kreh. His journey eventually took him to Alaska, where he lived in a tent and worked at a fly shop.
Mark Rehbein's Journey to Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
09:25 - After following BTT for years and growing up with a love for bonefishing, Mark transitioned from a corporate job and internships to landing an entry-level events position at BTT.
Despite having no prior events experience, Mark embraced the challenge and grew within the organization, eventually becoming the Director of Development.
Mark also highlights two upcoming major events hosted by BTT: the Circle of Honor in May and the New York dinner in October, where notable individuals like Captain Rick Ruoff, Captain Joe Gonzalez, and Travis Holeman will be honored.
 
Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit Conservation Efforts
19:38 -  BTT focuses on the conservation of bonefish, tarpon, and permits. These species are crucial because protecting them also ensures the preservation of their habitats and benefits other marine life.
BTT's initiatives involve extensive research, including tagging programs and mark-recapture studies, to gather essential data for informed conservation strategies.
The focus revolves around three key areas: habitat preservation, water quality improvement, and effective fisheries management.
"You gain credibility by the thimble full and lose it by the bucket full." 
- Dr. Aaron Adams
In places like the Florida Keys, BTT utilizes tournament catch records and collaborates with organizations like the IGFA, Lower Keys Guides Association, and Florida Keys Fishing Guides Association to track trends in tarpon encounters, releases, and jumps.
Life History of Tarpon
33:40 - Tarpons start with their offshore spawning in deep waters, where they release eggs that develop into Leptocephalus larvae. These larvae drift with ocean currents until they reach suitable habitats.
As juveniles, tarpon thrive in mangrove estuaries, where optimal habitat conditions support their growth and development. Tarpons can live up to 80 years and spawn multiple times.
The Importance of Mangroves 
45:37 - Mangroves serve as crucial habitats for various juvenile fish species. They provide protection, food sources, and growth opportunities. Mangroves also contribute to coastal resiliency and are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Lefty Kreh's Legacy and One-Liners
53:35 - Mark shares anecdotes about Lefty Kreh's humorous and multifaceted personality, highlighting his knack for memorable one-liners. Despite his fame as an angler, Lefty's true legacy lies in his kindness, passion for fishing, and impact on those he encountered.
Mark reflects on the impact Lefty had on him and how he strives to uphold Lefty's legacy by emulating his positive attitude and dedication to angling.
Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/594