Bauer Reels - Get to Know - The Angler

In this episode of the Fly Fishing Insider podcast, host Christian Bacasa interviews John Radle from Bauer Reels and Winston. They discuss the fly fishing opportunities in Twin Bridges, Montana, including the four trout streams in the area and the abundance of spring creeks. John shares a memorable experience of fishing on a spring creek and the patience and methodical approach required to catch fish in that environment. They also touch on the importance of public access to rivers and the unique stream access laws in Montana. In this conversation, John Radle discusses his experience with streamer fishing in the Twin Bridges area of Montana. He talks about the different water types and techniques he uses for streamer fishing, including sight fishing in spring creeks and floating and throwing streamers in rivers. John also shares his tips for using two-handers and the importance of the jerk strip technique. He discusses the flies he likes to use and the importance of color and profile. The conversation ends with a preview of the next episode on reels. Takeaways

• Twin Bridges, Montana is a mecca for fly fishing, with four trout streams and an abundance of spring creeks in the area.
• Fishing on spring creeks requires a patient and methodical approach, observing the fish and making precise presentations.
• Montana's stream access laws allow for public access to rivers, providing opportunities for anglers to explore lesser-known waters.
• The combination of beautiful landscapes, diverse hatches, and the thrill of dry fly fishing make Twin Bridges a dream destination for fly anglers. Streamer fishing in the Twin Bridges area of Montana offers a variety of water types and techniques.
• Sight fishing in spring creeks and floating and throwing streamers in rivers are popular methods.
• Using two-handers and the jerk strip technique can be effective for streamer fishing.
• Choosing the right flies, considering color and profile, is important for success.
• The next episode will cover reels and what to look for in a reel.

Sound Bites

• "We have four pretty amazing trout streams right here in our backyard."
• "I think the classic Montana scene is you're in a drift boat going down a bigger river, throwing at the bank or fishing mid-river structure and playing that game. And while that's super fun, it's a great time to spend with your buddies, it's not quite as personal as Spring Creek fishing."
• "I think I've gotten blessed to fish creeks like that with some older guys that are way better than I am. And the biggest thing that helps catch fish on those creeks is patience and being a little bit methodical in your presentation and thinking through what the effects of your cast are going to be."
• "Epic, epic fishing up there is a beautiful place, man. Beautiful place."
• "My streamer fishing primarily takes place from early spring on, and I'll fish in the summertime too."
• "I'm ripping the seven weight with a full 30 foot sinking head."

Chapters 00:00Introduction to Twin Bridges, Montana 03:06The Fly Fishing Opportunities in Twin Bridges 10:31The Art of Fishing Spring Creeks 20:15Public Access and Stream Access Laws in Montana 22:26Streamer Fishing in Spring and Summer 24:23Casting and Fly Selection 29:13Fishing Techniques with Two-Handers 32:08Choosing the Right Two-Hander 35:12Leader Material and Tip It 37:45Setting the Hook and Landing Fish 39:43Favorite Streamer Patterns