Dead Drifters Society: A fly fishing podcast

Andrew Barany
  • 4.6 (10)
  • Hobbies
  • Weekly

Welcome to The Dead Drifters Society podcast, the ultimate destination for fly fishing addicts like us! I'm Andrew Barany, your host from beautiful Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Join me as we bring together members of the fly fishing community to share stories, tips, tricks, and inspiration both on and off the water. Fly fishing is a lifelong learning experience that both elevates and humbles us. Let's dive into conversations about how this incredible passion has blessed our lives. Tight lines, my friends! Live on and fish on! For more information, email me at deaddrifterssociety@gmail.com Incredible artwork by Riverwlkr: https://instagram.com/riverwlkr?igshid=MWI4MTIyMDE=

  1. 4h ago

    What If The Best Fishery Is Your Backyard

    Send us Fan Mail The fastest way to hate fly fishing is to start with the wrong setup and no feedback, then blame yourself when nothing loads, nothing turns over, and every cast feels like work. James from River Valley Guiding cuts straight through that frustration with a story most of us recognize: years of fishing experience, a “half-crash-course” start, and then a sudden breakthrough once the rod and fly line finally match the job. From there, we get into what actually changes outcomes on the water: tapers, sink rates, and the small adjustments that turn sloppy loops into repeatable casts. We go deep on Edmonton fly fishing and the North Saskatchewan River, especially the warmwater side that doesn’t get enough spotlight. James shares how he approaches walleye, pike, and the wildly underrated goldeye, plus how seasonal water temperatures and river conditions shape a guiding calendar from spring sight fishing to fall trophy hunts. If you’re curious about building a “backyard fishery” mindset, this is a practical roadmap rooted in real days, real misses, and real wins. Gear talk stays grounded: why fly line often matters more than an expensive rod, how fast-action rods can punish your elbow with big streamers, and why the Belgian cast is so effective for weighted flies, streamers, and indicator rigs. We also get honest about guiding dynamics: trust your guide, ask questions, and remember you’re a team in the boat. If you enjoy detailed fly fishing advice, Canadian river strategy, and conversations that make you want to practise tonight, subscribe, share this with a fishing buddy, and leave a review. What’s the one casting or gear problem you want to solve next? https://rvgco.ca

    What If The Best Fishery Is Your Backyard

  2. Oct 15

    How Gill Steele Built A Life In Fly Fishing

    Send us Fan Mail Steelhead can make you question everything you think you know, especially when you’re swinging all day and never feel a touch. Gill Steele joins us to talk about what actually moves the needle: reading water like it’s a living map, understanding the water column, and building the kind of confidence where you stop changing flies every ten minutes and start fishing with purpose. Gill grew up with fishing in her blood, from Vancouver roots to decades around a North Vancouver tackle shop, and she’s as comfortable with a fly rod as she is talking openly about how people learn. We get into teaching fly casting without overcomplicating it, the backcast mistakes almost everyone makes, and why brand-new anglers sometimes progress faster than folks who’ve been “muscling” casts for years. Gill also shares what her Skeena River steelhead trip looked like, including the gear she trusts for summer-run fish and why warmer conditions can make steelhead far more willing to move. We also unpack the story behind BC Women’s Fly Fishing Group: how it started with two women having a great day on the water and turned into a decade of sold-out trips across British Columbia. We talk about creating space where anglers can be themselves, why guide selection matters, and how a “slow” day can still be a successful day when learning is part of the goal. Finally, Gill walks us through her work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada in the Salmon Enhancement Program, supporting volunteer-run community hatcheries and salmon education in urban streams. If you’ve ever wanted a real way to give back to salmon and steelhead, this is your roadmap. Subscribe, share the episode with your fishing crew, and leave a review with the one skill you’re focused on improving next.

    How Gill Steele Built A Life In Fly Fishing

  3. 06/17/2025

    Backcountry Skinz: Revolutionizing the Art of Wet Wading

    Send us Fan Mail What if there was a better alternative to bulky waders for those warm summer fishing days? Kelly from Backcountry Skinz joins us to share how two brothers transformed their frustration with traditional fishing gear into a revolutionary wet wading solution that's changing how anglers approach the water. Born during the pandemic when outdoor adventures became essential escapes, Backcountry Skinz started with a simple concept: create neoprene leggings specifically designed for fishing that provide warmth and protection without the bulk and discomfort of waders. Four years later, they've developed a full range of specialized wet wading gear, including their game-changing "Liquid Lock Socks" that create a waterproof seal around your leg. We dive deep into the world of alpine lake fishing adventures, exploring the unique challenges of backcountry angling and how proper gear can make or break your experience. Kelly shares invaluable tips for backpacking into remote fishing destinations, from essential survival gear to the perfect flies for pressured alpine trout. Beyond product talk, this conversation captures the pure passion behind fishing innovation. Kelly explains how his love for exploration drives product development, creating gear that allows anglers to travel lighter, fish longer, and access more remote waters. His stories of testing products in extreme conditions - from glacier-fed rivers to high mountain lakes - reveal the authentic field testing behind every product they make. Whether you're a dedicated alpine lake explorer or simply someone who hates sweating in waders on hot summer days, this episode offers fresh perspectives on fishing comfort and accessibility. Listen now to discover how the right specialized gear might transform your approach to wet wading and open up new fishing possibilities you never considered before. https://backcountryskinz.com/ https://www.instagram.com/backcountryskinz?igsh=N21ta3RqOHRyYWIy

    Backcountry Skinz: Revolutionizing the Art of Wet Wading

  4. 04/22/2025

    Urban Gold: How Ken Myers Turned Trash Fish into Trophy Targets

    Send us Fan Mail Ken Myers takes us deep into the often overlooked world of fly fishing for carp, revealing why these powerful freshwater bulldogs deserve far more respect than they typically receive. From the concrete channels of Illinois to the flats of Lake Michigan, Ken details the specialized approaches needed to target these fish across dramatically different environments. The conversation reveals the surprising complexity of carp behavior, with Ken explaining how these intelligent fish adapt their feeding patterns based on available food sources. He shares the thrill of sight-fishing with his signature "drag and drop" method, describing the precise presentations needed to fool fish that many anglers dismiss as "trash." Ken recounts his most extraordinary carp fishing experience – a rare cicada "double hatch" that transformed normally bottom-feeding carp into surface feeders, allowing him to catch over a hundred on dry flies in just three weeks. What stands out is Ken's passion for urban fishing environments that most anglers would drive past without a second glance. Through his stories of targeting mirror carp, fantails, and escaped koi among industrial settings, he paints a picture of accessible adventure available to anyone willing to look at these fish with fresh eyes. With practical advice on gear selection, fly patterns, and observation techniques, Ken offers everything listeners need to begin their own carp journey. Whether you're a dedicated carp enthusiast or a trout purist curious about alternatives, this episode will change how you view these ubiquitous, powerful fish. Follow Ken on Instagram to join his continuing adventures in what he calls "some of the best carp fishing in the country" – hiding in plain sight among the waterways of Chicago and beyond.

    Urban Gold: How Ken Myers Turned Trash Fish into Trophy Targets

  5. 03/01/2025

    Catching Coho: Mastering Saltwater Fly Fishing

    Send us Fan Mail If you've ever dreamt of catching Coho salmon using a fly rod, this episode is for you! We’re joined by Flo Benson, an expert fly fishing guide from Tofino, who shares his wealth of knowledge gained from years of experience guiding fishers along the breathtaking coasts of Vancouver Island. Flo dives into the essentials of saltwater fly fishing, discussing the best gear to use, from rod selection to the importance of using the proper fly patterns. Throughout the episode, we explore the dynamics of Coho salmon, including their behaviour during different times of the year and the tactical approach needed for successful fishing. Flo elaborates on the importance of varying your retrieve speed and the science behind why specific colours like pink and chartreuse work wonders in attracting these aggressive fish. Beyond gear and technique, we also touch on how environmental factors can influence your successful catch ratio, particularly during changing atmospheric conditions. Aspiring and seasoned anglers alike will gain a treasure trove of information on casting techniques, the necessary adjustments when targeting Coho, and the exciting reality of the battle once a big fish is on the line. Flo emphasizes sustainable fishing practices, reminding us that as stewards of our natural resources, it is crucial to respect and preserve our oceans and rivers. Join us for a lively discussion filled with expert insights and passionate storytelling, perfect for anyone looking to up their fishing game. Don't forget to subscribe, share, or leave a review to help spread the love for fishing!

    Catching Coho: Mastering Saltwater Fly Fishing

  6. 02/15/2025

    Connecting Waters: Stories of Steelhead and Kinship

    Send us Fan Mail What if you could transform your approach to fly fishing and achieve the perfect catch? Join us as we welcome back Jordan Treadway, a seasoned fishing guide from Washington, who shares his wisdom on everything from the art of slowing down your fly to the thrill of landing a steelhead. With personal stories and reflections, we explore the nuances of fly tying, experimenting with classic hooks, and those exhilarating moments when a fish bites during the hang. Jordan's anecdotes about family life and the balance between passion and responsibilities add depth to our conversation, offering listeners a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a devoted angler. The episode unfolds with rich storytelling about the early steelhead fishing season, capturing the anticipation and camaraderie that define this pursuit. We delve into the evolution of casting techniques, emphasizing the power of muscle memory and the unique challenges of switching dominant hand positions. From discussing the best equipment for various fishing conditions to sharing tales of near catches and the beauty of nature, we paint a vivid picture of the joys and trials in the life of a dedicated fisherman. Jordan's insights are invaluable as we navigate the complexities of fishing while balancing business and family life. In our exploration of the fly fishing world, we reflect on the importance of confidence, both in the fly and in one's own abilities. The episode highlights the significance of a well-thought-out swing technique, where controlling the fly's pace can significantly enhance success. We also touch on the joy of connecting through fishing, sharing meaningful moments with loved ones, and the rewarding experience of guiding others. As we conclude, we look ahead with excitement to future adventures, celebrating the spirit of exploration and the enduring passion for the sport that keeps us all casting forward.

    Connecting Waters: Stories of Steelhead and Kinship

  7. 02/01/2025

    Fly Fishing Insights and Adventures with Trout Tornado

    Send us Fan Mail Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Brian, a.k.a. Trout Tornado, as we unravel the secrets of fly fishing's enchanting art. Get ready to understand why the Squimpish Clouser fly is a game-changer for low water conditions and how the balance between simplicity and efficiency can lead to spectacular catches. With 25 years of experience, Brian shares his journey from his college days in New York State. As we explore the diverse world of fly fishing styles, prepare to deepen your knowledge of dry flies, Euro nymphing, and micro streamers. Learn from Brian's personal anecdotes about mastering fly fishing techniques through dedication and the invaluable lessons gained from seasoned experts. Whether transitioning from rivers to lakes or adapting to seasonal changes, fly fishing offers a rich tapestry of experiences that promise endless learning and fulfillment. Brian emphasizes the importance of presentation, adaptability, and the continuous pursuit of mastery, making fly fishing a rewarding and ever-evolving skill. In this episode, practical advice takes center stage as we discuss essential strategies for elevating your fishing adventures. From the benefits of meticulous note-taking to the advantages of using two-handed rods, our conversation is packed with tips for both novices and veteran anglers. We also delve into the role of technology in refining casting techniques and maintaining gear, ensuring that every fishing trip is a success. With insights on equipment selection, fly patterns, and the joys of guiding, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone passionate about the art of fly fishing.

    Fly Fishing Insights and Adventures with Trout Tornado

  8. 01/15/2025

    Fly Fishing Odyssey: Mitchell Paisker’s Alaskan Adventures and Passionate Pursuits

    Send us Fan Mail What makes fly fishing in Alaska a truly unique experience? Our good friend, Mitchell Paisker, joins us from Anchorage to share his insights into the exhilarating world of fly fishing. From his passion for swinging flies in Alaskan waters to the satisfaction of enticing quick reaction bites, Mitchell's stories bring this dynamic sport to life. With discussions ranging from using large swing bugs to the artful patience of dry fly fishing, we explore the creative and ever-adaptive nature of this beloved pastime.  We also delve into the technical aspects of fly fishing, from perfecting casting form with heavy reels to the nuances of fly patterns and rod weights. Discover how Mitchell adjusts his techniques for different fishing conditions, and how music can enhance the fishing experience. Our conversation takes us on an adventurous journey, featuring tales of family fishing trips, teaching patience through fishing lessons. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, there's something for everyone here, capturing the essence of fishing as both a personal and shared adventure. Tune in for a celebration of the angler's spirit, as we recount unforgettable encounters with perfect fish and the joy of mastering drag techniques. Our episode is packed with practical tips, engaging stories, and a shared enthusiasm for the sport. With the warm winter weather in Alaska setting the scene, this episode promises laughter, learning, and a deep appreciation for the endless opportunities that fly fishing offers. Join us as we uncover the passion and versatility that make this sport so captivating. • Instagram @mpaisker

    Fly Fishing Odyssey: Mitchell Paisker’s Alaskan Adventures and Passionate Pursuits
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4.6
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Dead Drifters Society podcast, the ultimate destination for fly fishing addicts like us! I'm Andrew Barany, your host from beautiful Vancouver Island, BC, Canada. Join me as we bring together members of the fly fishing community to share stories, tips, tricks, and inspiration both on and off the water. Fly fishing is a lifelong learning experience that both elevates and humbles us. Let's dive into conversations about how this incredible passion has blessed our lives. Tight lines, my friends! Live on and fish on! For more information, email me at deaddrifterssociety@gmail.com Incredible artwork by Riverwlkr: https://instagram.com/riverwlkr?igshid=MWI4MTIyMDE=

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