Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/605  

Presented by: Guide Book, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors   

Dan Donovan, the owner and passionate angler behind Musky Fool guides us through mastering musky fly fishing today. Discover the Musky School and how you can be part of this exciting adventure. Learn the ins and outs of choosing the right fly to hit muskies as large as 20 inches, and master the techniques to cast them like a pro. Discover the four essential presentations that will elevate your musky game today. Don't miss out on this chance to transform your approach to musky fishing with tips from the expert himself.

Episode Chapters with Dan Donovan on Musky Fly Fishing

3:49 - Dan discusses his experience with tying a musky fly, which was initially intended to mimic conventional black and silver baits but was unsatisfactory. Despite its poor start, Dan mentions that his skill in fly tying improved over time.

4:51 - Musky Fool Fly Fishing Co., the only fly shop in the Madison area, is highlighted for its comprehensive coverage of various fishing needs, particularly known for musky but offers gear and guidance for all types of fly fishing, capitalizing on the rich fishing environment in and around Madison.

5:23 - Dan notes that Wisconsin winters can be tough, affecting the local environment and fishing seasons. The early arrival of spring has implications for the musky season, potentially advancing the schedule for fishing activities in the area.

6:22 - We talk about our upcoming musky fly fishing trip planned for mid-September in northern Wisconsin. Dan highlights this time of year as optimal for musky fishing due to their behavior and the environmental conditions.

16:32 - Dan discusses strategies to target muskies successfully. He emphasizes the importance of "hunting your fly," meaning anglers need to actively impart action into the fly to make it appealing to the fish. He mentions that simply casting and retrieving in a monotonous pattern is ineffective. Instead, anglers must vary their retrieval techniques, such as incorporating pauses, different speeds, and lengths of strips to mimic the diverse behaviors of prey.

21:05 - Dan explains the wide variation of musky flies, which range from six to 20 inches, designed to imitate bait fish. He mentions that in September, the focus isn't on the variety of flies but on placing them correctly, typically using flies between nine to 12 inches on 11 and 12 weights.

23:41 - He outlines four main presentations of flies, including topwater for noise attraction, glide style for sideways movement, jerk style or diving flies for a downward then wobbling upward motion, and weighted jig style for a hopping effect over structures. Each style is designed to mimic natural prey movements to entice muskies.

26:59 - Dan emphasizes the importance of the strip action to create movement in the fly, advocating for a strong pull followed by a pause, possibly with a twitch, before another vigorous rip.

33:15 - He mentions their efforts to provide resources for those unable to take guided trips, such as launching a video series on their website and social media, offering tutorials on fly tying, sharing fishing tips through their podcast named "Spot Burn", and planning to show real fishing techniques through videos.

40:53 - Dan describes muskie fishing as a "knife fight in a phone booth" rather than a long-distance battle, highlighting the aggressive nature of muskies and their tendency to try to escape rather than take long runs. He suggests giving the fish multiple hard strip sets to ensure the hook is properly set, noting that muskies are adept at freeing themselves from hooks.

48:36 - We dig into the ideal gear for a musky fishing trip. He recommends large nets, specifically the Solo Slimer Net from RS Nets USA for durability and the Stowmaster for its foldability, to accommodate different fishing boat sizes. For rods, he suggests a 2pc 10-weight from the Chippewa River Custom Rod, made in Wisconsin, for its lightweight and casting capability. He also emphasizes the importance of having the right line, recommending Cortland's Pike Muky Sink 4 and Intermediate lines for versatility in different fishing conditions.

You can get a chance to win a spot in our upcoming Musky School and a bunch of gear specifically for musky fishing by signing up through this link: wetflyswing.com/giveaway.

56:36 - Dan explains the concept of the "figure eight" technique used in musky fishing, where the angler makes a figure eight motion with their rod tip next to the boat to entice muskies to bite.

1:08:07 - Dan tells us about Louis Spray, a notorious figure known for his pirate-like demeanor and significant achievements in fly fishing.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/605 

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/604

Presented By:  Yellowstone Teton Territory, Skwala, TroutRoutes

Today's episode focuses on an important organization helping to generate billions of dollars to protect our fish species. Join me as I chat with Connor Bevan, the Inland Fisheries Policy Manager at the American Sportfishing Association.

Hear how partnerships on Capitol Hill shape the future of fish species preservation. Today you will also find out how you can lend your voice to this cause and ensure our fish populations will thrive for generations.

Plus, we'll also take a thrilling ride to ICAST—the world's largest sportfishing event this July in Florida!

Show Notes with Connor Bevan on American Sportfishing Association.

2:00 - Connor's fishing adventures began in Northern California with his dad. Connor also enjoys fly fishing on the Bow River in Calgary and the Delaware River on the East Coast.

The American Sport Fishing Association (ASA)

The ASA is the leading trade association for the recreational fishing industry. They advocate for healthy fisheries and science-based policies. Their efforts contribute to the US economy, with an annual impact of $148 billion.

8:00 - ASA deals with a wide range of issues, but one of their major focuses is reauthorizing the America's Conservation Enhancement Act (ACE Act).

10:30 - ASA is a link between the sportfishing community and Capitol Hill. They leverage the community's voice to ensure they have a nationwide appeal.

13:00 - Connor says that while there is a common understanding of the need for healthy fisheries, ASA acknowledges that Congress needs to balance various priorities.

It is important to educate decision-makers on the impact of what they do on water quality, fishing, and overall environmental health.

What You Can Do to Help

15:27 - Connor suggests several ways:

Get involved with Keep America Fishing. This is their advocacy platform for anglers to weigh in on different issues both on national and regional levels. Share any local issues or concerns with ASA. Connor says they are always interested in hearing what's going on at the local level. Become an active member of the community. What is the ICAST? 

17:00 - The ICAST is the world's largest sportfishing industry trade show. It's where you can see all the latest products, innovations, and trends in the industry. This year's ICAST 2024 will be in Orlando, Florida from July 16th to July 19th.

19:13 - Connor says that fly fishing's presence at ICAST is growing. Last year they introduced a dedicated floor space for fly companies, and they saw a lot of interest.

26:37 - One of the American Sportfishing Association's big focuses over the last several years has been taking a more preventative look at aquatic invasive species.

The fishing and boating industry launched a Blue Ribbon Commission to improve preventive and management strategies for these invasive species.

28:18 -  The MAPLand Act requires federal agencies to standardize and digitize maps they hold within the agencies. ASA supports the MapWaters Act to similarly direct federal agencies to digitize and standardize that mapping information.

A Day in the Life at Capitol Hill 

35:18 - Connor says that every day is different for him. He spends a lot of time in meetings with legislative staff.

Travel is a big part of the job. Connor attends trade shows and conducts site visits. He also coordinates regularly with their members to discuss issues affecting their businesses.

36:54 - Excise taxes are fees imposed on the sale of fishing gear like rods, reels, and even marine fuel. These funds are then distributed to state agencies based on a specific formula.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/604

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/603 

Presented by: FishHound Expeditions, TroutRoutes, Stonefly Nets, Togiak River Lodge

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors  

Join us in this fascinating episode as David Coggins, a celebrated author and seasoned angler, shares his global fishing adventures and the stories behind his latest book. Discover the allure of chasing elusive fish in exotic locations and how David merges his keen sense of style with the practical aspects of angling. Whether you're curious about the nuances of fishing in Norwegian rivers or the challenges of catching permit in Belize, David's experiences offer invaluable insights and inspire anglers to dream big and fish with style.

Episode Chapters with David Coggins on Global Fishing Adventures

1:32 - David discusses his recent activities and his new book, "The Believer: A Year in the Fly Fishing Life." This book was inspired during the COVID-19 lockdowns as he aimed to maximize his fishing activities before potentially settling down with his girlfriend. However, many of his planned trips were canceled due to the pandemic. Despite these setbacks, he managed to continue fishing and incorporated these experiences into his book.

5:44 - He shares his passion for fly fishing and the personal joys it brings, particularly when introducing friends to the sport. He also talks about the challenging aspects of fishing, like learning new skills and overcoming difficulties, which make the experience rewarding.

11:41 - He highlights the joy of teaching and sharing experiences, particularly in locations like the Catskills. Coggins reflects on the variety of fishing styles among enthusiasts, from those strictly using dry flies to others who are more versatile.

19:26 - Coggins traveled to several dream destinations including Patagonia, Cuba, Belize, and Norway, where he pursued challenging fishing adventures.

23:13 -He talks about his fishing experiences in Belize, particularly the challenges of permit fishing, where he felt the intensity and unpredictability of trying to catch this elusive species.

29:57 - He shares his experiences fishing for steelhead. He mentions the challenges of blown-out rivers and the need to adapt plans, including an instance where they used a helicopter to access the Copper River.

31:22 - David expresses concern over the noticeable environmental changes observed by guides and the impacts on fish behavior, such as the timing shifts in the migration patterns of Stripe bass due to warmer waters. He highlights the work of conservation organizations like the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and the Atlantic Salmon Federation, stressing the necessity for those who love and utilize aquatic environments to contribute actively to conservation efforts.

33:57 - We dig into how he approaches writing for his audience, balancing the needs of both seasoned anglers and newcomers. He emphasizes his role not as a technical expert, but as someone who conveys the emotional and sensory experiences of fly fishing in different locales.

40:44 - He shares some insights from his experience with Tom Rosenbauer and discusses his approach to writing and journaling about fishing. David emphasizes the simplicity and authenticity necessary for capturing the essence of fishing experiences in writing.

46:51 - I ask about his thoughts on artificial intelligence (AI), particularly its implications for creative industries like writing. He acknowledges the fascinating and somewhat frightening aspects of AI technology, such as its potential to imitate human writing styles.

49:23 - We delve into his passion for traditional styles and tailored clothing, relating it to his interests in fishing and outdoor activities. He highlights his preference for durable, classic materials over overly technical, new fabrics, suggesting that style and practicality can coexist without constantly chasing the latest trends.

David also mentions his involvement in writing about men's fashion, providing guidance on dressing through various platforms, including his newsletter and contributions to Esquire.

54:41 - He recounts a humorous and humbling incident in Patagonia, where he had to concede a better casting position to a friend due to being less skilled for the specific situation, highlighting the polite interactions with guides who play crucial roles in such experiences.

58:51 - David shares his early fly fishing experiences and the lessons he learned from older, seasoned fishermen. He stresses the importance of fishing with experienced anglers, like the two older men he knew in Wisconsin, who, despite their crusty exteriors, generously shared their knowledge and patience on the water.

In terms of gear, David mentions his appreciation for small-scale, quality craftsmanship, exemplified by a Colorado man who makes durable fly fishing bags under Emerger Fly Fishing.

1:02:52 - He discusses his experiences with Orvis, especially their Helios rods and Mirage reels, noting a preference for gear that may not be mainstream but performs well.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/603 

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/602

Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Skwala, Waters West, Visit Helena, MT

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

In this episode of the Great Lakes Dude podcast, we're gonna chit-chat and take a journey into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with Capt. Brad Petzke, owner of Rivers North Guide Service. Yes, it's still Michigan. Once you cross that big, long Mackinac bridge and head north from the Lower Peninsula, it almost seems like another state. Once you cross it, things start to get a little more wilderness, a lot less towns and cities and villages, and just a lot of water and opportunities to explore.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/601

Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Jackson Hole Fly Company, Skwala, Togens Fly Shop

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Is it better to purchase a drift boat or a raft for fly fishing? Do you know which of these two options is the better? All-around purchase if you can only get one? And what about rebuilding an old boat? Is this a realistic option to save money and maybe get into your first boat? Today you're going to hear the drift boat versus raft debate and you'll find out how my guest today restored a boat that barely held water.

Adam Hudson is back on the show to take us into his unlikely boat build out story and how he took on this project and, and what happened, how he finished it up and where he is heading. Next, Adam And I debate the benefits of the drift boat versus the raft. We find out which raft he recently purchased that has a hard floor, and we also get his top streamer patterns from Blue Line. Plus, we're gonna hear what it was like to finally row this boat down the Green River. And whether it passed the test, the Battle of the Boats is finally here.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/601

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/600

Presented By: Visit Helena, MT, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

If you could sit down and listen to the person who was invited to develop the movie, A River Runs Through It, would you check it out? Would you listen to the person who literally brought Nipping to the forefront in the US back in the day? What about a person who could rattle on about the brief history of every person in the US who paved the way for the present-day fly anglers and the trajectory that we're on now? Well, today you're in luck because we have Gary Borger back on the show to take a deep dive into the history of fly fishing, to get into tips and tricks, and to hear how he's been doing it for over 60 years. 

Gary Borger, the author of Nymphing, Naturals, and many other iconic fly fishing books, is here to share stories of an old angler and the tips he accumulated over the years of fly fishing around the world. We hear about who invented the double hall and how Gary is connected to that. We find out how he developed into the Fenwick fly fishing schools back in the 70s and how that was a major breakthrough back in the day. And we also find out how his first video was actually the first instructional fly-fishing video ever produced.

Did I mention this was episode 600? So we're celebrating this episode with a Legendary angler, Gary Borger! If you get a chance, head over to Instagram. If you're over there, leave a comment. 600 and just leave 600 wherever you can. We're passing 600 and we're moving along. Big celebration. I always love trying to get a big guest on the show at our milestones. So let's go back in history with one of the best...

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/600

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 increase your chances of success. Journaling: Keep detailed notes about your fishing experiences, including what worked, what didn't, and any observations about conditions or tactics. Reviewing these notes before future trips can provide valuable insights and improve fishing performance.

TFO Rod Lineup Overview

TFO offers a diverse lineup of rods catering to various fishing styles and species, ensuring there's something for everyone from beginners to seasoned anglers.

They provide high-quality rods at reasonable price points. They offer combo kits that include rod and reel combinations, making it convenient and cost-effective for beginners to get started with everything they need.

Choosing the Right Fly Rod for Beginners

Here are some key tips and advice for beginners looking to choose the right fly rod:

Try Different Rods: Try out a few different rods to find one that fits your casting style and preferences. Focus on Personal Preference: Ignore brand names and logos initially. Instead, focus on how comfortable and enjoyable the rod feels to cast. Evaluate Budget and Usage: Determine your budget and how often you'll be fishing. Start with a Versatile Option: A nine-foot five-weight rod is a good starting point for most freshwater fishing situations Consider Weight Differences: When expanding your rod collection, consider a two or three-weight difference from your initial rod.

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

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. Understand the lifecycle and behavior of cicadas.

Dave highlights two favorite cicada fly patterns that you can check out online for inspiration:

17-Year Itch Cicada Chuck Kraft Excaliburs

Preparation Tips for Cicada Season

If you're gearing up for cicada season, Dave suggests the following:

Buy the Book: Get Dave's book for brood maps and scouting tips. Online Resources: Utilize online resources to gather information about cicada sightings in your area. Reach Out: Contact universities and entomology departments for expert insights and locations. Talk to Locals: Connect with people who have experienced cicada emergences before for valuable knowledge. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on news articles and scientific reports to stay updated on cicada predictions and hotspots.

Down Home Boatworks

51:00 - While Dave hasn't designed new boats recently, he continues to sell plans. Dave also offers plans for free to schools and non-profits interested in boat-building projects.

Show Notes:  https://wetflyswing.com/597

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