WAYPOINTS Fly Fishing Podcast - with Jim Klug

Jim Klug

WAYPOINTS is an informative and entertaining fly fishing podcast for those that fish ... and those that travel to fish. Adventure stories, destination discussions, travel news, location profiles, equipment recommendations, insider tips, and interviews with the most accomplished and interesting names in fly fishing and adventure travel. 

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 92 - JEFF CURRIER - An Impossible List: Travel, Obsession, and the Quest for Number 500

    Ask Us A Question! For more than four decades, Jeff Currier has built one of the most extraordinary careers in flyfishing. From tiny mountain streams to some of the most remote rivers, flats, and coastlines on Earth, he has traveled to more than 60 countries, pursued fish on six continents, and inspired generations of anglers with an unmatched passion for exploration. Along the way, one remarkable goal has quietly driven nearly every journey: the pursuit of 500 different and unique species caught and documented on a fly rod. If successful, Jeff will likely become the first angler in history to reach that unprecedented milestone. Recorded on location in the Burgundy region of eastern France, this special episode of Waypoints follows Jeff as he stands on the doorstep of history in pursuit of one final species to reach his goal of 500 — a giant Wels catfish unlike anything most fly anglers will ever encounter. But this conversation is about far more than a number on a list. Waypoints host Jim Klug and Jeff discuss the decades of travel, relentless curiosity, meticulous planning, friendships, setbacks, and unforgettable adventures that transformed a simple idea into a lifelong pursuit. Whether you’ve followed Jeff’s career for years or are hearing his story for the first time, this is a fascinating look at what happens when passion becomes purpose — and why the greatest accomplishments in flyfishing are often measured not by the fish themselves, but by the places they take us and the lives they shape along the way. Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

  2. Jun 29

    Episode 91 - NICK LYONS (joined by CRAIG MATHEWS) - The Voice Behind Modern Flyfishing

    Ask Us A Question! Recorded on the banks of O’Dell Creek just outside of Yellowstone Country, this episode of Waypoints is unlike any we’ve ever done. Host Jim Klug sits down outdoors with two of the most important and influential figures in the history of modern flyfishing: legendary writer, editor, and publisher Nick Lyons and renowned Yellowstone guide, author, and conservationist Craig Mathews. Against the backdrop of one of Montana’s most iconic spring creeks, the conversation explores the roots of flyfishing storytelling, the evolution of the writing in the world of flyfishing, and the friendships and connections that helped shape an entire generation of anglers.   More than just a podcast interview, this episode feels like a rare and intimate conversation between two men whose lives have become deeply woven into the fabric of flyfishing history. From the early days of outdoor writing and the founding of Lyons Press, to discussions about great flyfishing writers, the changing landscape of media, and the meaning of the sport itself, Nick and Craig share stories, wisdom, and perspective that only come from a lifetime spent on the water. Honest and deeply nostalgic at times, this is a special episode for anyone who cares about flyfishing —not just as a sport, but as a culture, a tradition, and a way of life.  Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

  3. Jun 15

    Episode 90 - GUIDO RAHR - Strongholds, Saving Wild Rivers, and the Future of Salmon

    Ask Us A Question! For decades, Guido Rahr has traveled some of the wildest and most remote corners of the planet in pursuit of one mission: protecting the last great salmon and steelhead rivers on Earth. As President and CEO of the Wild Salmon Center, Guido has helped safeguard more than 35 million acres of critical habitat across the Pacific Rim — from Alaska and British Columbia to Kamchatka, Japan, and beyond. Along the way, he has witnessed both the astonishing resilience of wild salmon and the sobering reality that many historic runs have disappeared within a single human lifetime.   In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug sits down with Guido for a wide-ranging conversation that spans conservation, travel, adventure, and the future of wild fish. They discuss the concept of salmon strongholds, the ongoing battle to protect places like Bristol Bay, the challenges facing rivers in Russia and the Pacific Northwest, and what anglers can do to make a meaningful difference. From helicopter flights into remote wilderness rivers to lessons learned across decades of conservation work, Guido shares stories, insights, and reasons for optimism that every angler should hear. This is a fascinating conversation about wild places, global exploration, and one of the most important conservation stories of our time.   Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

  4. Jun 1

    Episode 89 - WIL FLACK - Permit Tactics, Flies & Philosophy

    Ask Us A Question! In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug reconnects with one of the most respected names in the world of permit fishing: legendary guide, angler, and Belize Permit Club founder Wil Flack. More than seven years after Wil first appeared on Waypoints as one of the podcast’s earliest guests, the two sit down once again to revisit the obsession, frustration, evolution, and undeniable allure of chasing permit. From changing tactics and evolving gear to smarter fish, increased pressure on the flats, and the influence of social media, this conversation explores how permit fishing has changed — and what still matters just as much today as it did a decade ago.   Throughout the episode, Wil shares hard-earned insight from decades spent guiding and fishing the waters of Belize and beyond, offering listeners a deep dive into permit behavior, fly design, presentation strategies, tides, leaders, modern gear, and the mental side of permit fishing. The conversation also explores Wil’s new live-aboard mothership operation, Palometa Belize, and how new approaches to accessing remote water are shaping the future of the sport. Honest, technical, thoughtful, and humorous, this episode is packed with the kind of nuanced knowledge that only comes from thousands of days spent on the flats chasing one of flyfishing’s most difficult and addictive species. Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

    Episode 89 - WIL FLACK - Permit Tactics, Flies & Philosophy
  5. May 19

    Episode 88 - An Overview of the Current State of Flyfishing Travel

    Ask Us A Question! Season Five of Waypoints launches with a timely and wide-ranging conversation about the current state of global flyfishing travel — and what anglers can realistically expect as they plan trips in 2026 and beyond. Hosted by Jim Klug, this opening episode takes an honest and informed look at the questions, concerns, and trends shaping destination angling right now. From geopolitical headlines and airline disruptions to rising travel costs, trip insurance, changing regulations, and the growing influence of social media and AI, this episode cuts through the noise to focus on what’s actually happening on the ground — and on the water.  Joining Jim for this season premiere are two seasoned travel experts: Cam Davenport of Eleven Experience and Yellow Dog Flyfishing’s Alec Gerbec. Together, they dive into topics ranging from Mexico safety perceptions and Cuba travel realities to Patagonia wildfire recovery, Western U.S. water conditions, airline logistics, emerging fisheries, and the future of destination angling itself. Whether you’re planning your next big adventure or simply dreaming about where to fish next, this episode delivers practical insight, real-world perspective, and a reminder that despite all the uncertainty in today’s world, the spirit of exploration and flyfishing travel remains stronger than ever. Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

    Episode 88 - An Overview of the Current State of Flyfishing Travel
  6. 11/10/2025

    Episode 87 - RAHM EMANUEL - From the White House to the River. And ... Could the Next President Be a Fly Fisherman?

    Ask Us A Question! This episode of Waypoints is a bit ... different. Host Jim Klug sits down with former White House Chief of Staff, Congressman, Mayor of Chicago, and U.S. Ambassador to Japan - Rahm Emanuel - for an out-of-the-ordinary, candid conversation that blends politics, perspective, and pure flyfishing obsession. While Rahm has been featured on countless political shows, this discussion steps away from pure campaign strategy and policy spin to explore how one of America’s most recognized political figures finds happiness and focus through flyfishing. From chasing peacock bass in the jungles of the Amazon to stalking trout in Montana, Rahm’s passion for the sport runs deep. Known for his intensity and drive in the political arena, Emanuel opens up about how time on the water provides clarity, humility, and balance - and why conservation, access, and public lands should matter to every angler. The conversation ranges from global travel and favorite fisheries to flyfishing’s potential role in connecting people across political lines. It also touches on the current political climate in D.C. and the future of conservation and outdoor recreation policy. It’s an unexpected and refreshing look at a figure who may soon make headlines for much more than his casting stroke - and who just might be the one to bring flyfishing back to the White House in 2028! Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

    Episode 87 - RAHM EMANUEL - From the White House to the River. And ... Could the Next President Be a Fly Fisherman?
  7. 10/06/2025

    Episode 86 - FRANCOIS BOTHA - From Africa to Ascension Bay: Building a Life and Career in Flyfishing Adventure

    Ask Us A Question! On this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug records on location in Punta Allen, Mexico with South African angler, adventurer, guide, and lodge manager Francois Botha. A true global traveler, Francois has spent his career working and fishing in some of the world’s most remote and exciting destinations - from Alaska’s wild rivers to the Indian Ocean atolls, from Central Africa to the Yucatán. Today, he and his wife Dasha manage the well-known Palometa Club on Ascension Bay, while also splitting time between Alaska and Africa. With decades of experience guiding, managing lodges, and exploring new waters, Francois brings a unique perspective on what it really takes to make a life in fly fishing.   In this conversation, Jim and Francois dive into the realities of lodge life - the preparation, the grind, and the rewards of managing a world-class fishing operation. Francois talks about the challenges of running remote programs, the dynamics of working as a couple, the importance of versatility as a guide, and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating unforgettable guest experiences. They also explore how South African anglers have made such an outsized impact on the global fly fishing community, the differences in client expectations around the world, and what the future looks like for the next generation of destination anglers, explorers, and professional lodge managers. Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

    Episode 86 - FRANCOIS BOTHA - From Africa to Ascension Bay: Building a Life and Career in Flyfishing Adventure
  8. 09/22/2025

    Episode 85 - TOM BIE & PAUL PUCKETT - Packing, Planning, and Problem-Solving: A Travel Q&A for Anglers

    Ask Us A Question! In this special Waypoints episode, we turn the content and the questions over to our listeners - and dive into a wide range of travel questions submitted by the Waypoints audience. Joining host Jim Klug for this Q&A session are two well-known voices in the fly fishing community: Tom Bie, editor and publisher of The Drake Magazine, and artist, musician, and traveling angler Paul Puckett. Together, they share stories, insights, and practical advice from years of fishing around the globe. The result is a fun, informative, and wide-ranging discussion that covers everything from essential gear hacks to cultural considerations - making this a must-listen for anyone planning their next destination adventure. From big-picture planning and choosing the right destinations, to gear preparation, packing strategies, travel logistics, and on-the-ground tips, this conversation is all about the realities of flyfishing travel. Whether you’re a first-time international angler or a seasoned traveler looking to refine your approach, the questions covered in this episode are designed to make your next trip smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable. Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments. - Follow us on Instagram - Follow us on Facebook - Check out our YouTube Page - View the official Yellow Dog w...

    Episode 85 - TOM BIE & PAUL PUCKETT - Packing, Planning, and Problem-Solving: A Travel Q&A for Anglers
4.9
out of 5
81 Ratings

About

WAYPOINTS is an informative and entertaining fly fishing podcast for those that fish ... and those that travel to fish. Adventure stories, destination discussions, travel news, location profiles, equipment recommendations, insider tips, and interviews with the most accomplished and interesting names in fly fishing and adventure travel. 

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