Fishing for a Reason

In this episode, Jamie dives deep into the science, migration, and behavior of Pacific Market Squid—Washington’s most accessible winter fishery.

Whether you’re jigging from Edmonds Pier at night or hunting massive schools from a boat with sonar, understanding migration, spawning windows, and habitat will directly increase your success rate.

If you love accessible fisheries, fast action, winter nights, and a freezer full of calamari—this is your jam.

What Listeners Will Learn

• Why Pacific Market Squid return to Puget Sound by the millions in winter
• How their short life cycle & single-spawn death creates boom-or-bust fisheries
• How females spawn
• Typical commercial harvest volume
• The seasonal migration route 
• Why night lights draw schools into casting range
• Washington retention rules (up to 10 pounds, water drained)
• Why El Niño collapses production and La Niña supercharges abundance
• Where to go next for tactics.

Resources Mentioned

• Episode 35 – Squid Fishing in Puget Sound: Gear, Jigs & Secrets to Get You Started
• Anglers Unlimited Gold Membership & Seminars
• Washington Squid Limits & Regulations – WDFW site

In this deep-dive episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie breaks down the entire Pacific Razor Clam lifecycle — from microscopic larvae drifting in the surf to the full-grown clams you dig up on Washington’s beaches. If you love the science behind our local fisheries, this is your episode.

Jamie explains how clams dig at surprising speeds, how spawning actually works, why millions of eggs are produced with almost no chance of survival, and how state biologists assess razor clam populations to keep our recreational fishery thriving.

You’ll also learn the real story behind domoic acid, what makes a clam “safe,” and why tentative dig dates exist. Whether you’re a seasoned digger or planning your first trip, this episode gives you the biological insights to appreciate every clam you pull from the sand.

What Listeners Will Learn

• How fast razor clams can actually dig 
• Their full lifecycle — spawning, larvae development, settlement, and maturity
• Why females release up to 118 million eggs and why most don’t survive
• The predators razor clams face at every stage
• What domoic acid is and why it doesn’t affect the clams
• How WDFW tests clams for toxins & chooses safe dig dates
• How state biologists perform annual stock assessments
• Why honoring size-blind limits is critical for population health
• The surprising economic impact razor clam digs have on local communities

Resources Mentioned

• JOIN OUR INNER CIRCLE: Anglers Unlimited Gold Membership
• WDFW Razor Clam Page & Regulations
• Domoic Acid Levels (WDFW Monitoring Reports)
• Episode #42 – How to Plan Your First Razor Clam Dig
• Ocean Conservancy – Razor Clam Digging Facts
• Medium Article on Razor Clam Stock Assessment (with Photos) 

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Scott sit down with George Harris, President & CEO of the Northwest Marine Trade Association — the man behind the iconic Seattle Boat Show and one of the strongest voices advocating for boaters, anglers, and the marine businesses that support our way of life.

George shares 25+ years of stories, industry insights, and behind-the-scenes truths about what it really takes to keep boating accessible, protect fishing opportunities, support local marine businesses, and adapt to changing regulations across Washington.

From childhood fishing memories in the Midwest to orchestrating one of the largest boat shows in North America, George reveals the passion, policy work, and people who keep our region’s boating community strong.

If you love boating, fishing, or simply getting outside in the PNW — this is an episode you cannot miss.

What Listeners Will Learn

• The true role of the Northwest Marine Trade Association and how it protects boating & fishing access in Washington.
• How the Seattle Boat Show is built, organized, and evolved over 79 years (including wild behind-the-scenes stories).
• Why Washington is one of the best boating destinations in North America — and why people fly in from all 50 states to attend the show.
• How NMTA “fights behind the scenes” on legislation, permits, and regulations that impact marinas, boatyards, salmon habitat, and sportfishing.
• What new innovations, events, and surprises are coming to Seattle Boat Show 2026.
• How everyday boaters and anglers can get involved and support the future of our sport.
• The mindset George uses when the bite shuts off — and why it’s a lesson every angler should keep in their tackle box.

Resources Mentioned

• Seattle Boat Show 
• Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA)
• Recreational Boating Association of Washington (RBAW)
• Waterlife Newsletter (NMTA)
• Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Scott and I sit down with experts John Keizer (Salt Patrol) and Eddie Dalmau to talk about a bucket-list fishing opportunity that every Pacific Northwest angler should know about. If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the cold drizzle of winter and hooking into hard-charging yellowtail, roosterfish, dorado, snapper, and more — this is your sign.

John and Eddie break down everything you need to know about fishing La Paz, Mexico: the fishery, the boats, the accommodations, logistics, safety, species, food, culture, and what to expect from the brand-new Salt Patrol event happening this April.

Whether you want to join the trip or learn about Baja fishing in general, this episode is packed with insider knowledge you won’t find anywhere else.

You’ll walk away with:

• Why La Paz is a blast to fish
• The species you can target in April (yellowtail, roosterfish, dorado, grouper, snapper, marlin & more)
• What “hands-on” Baja fishing really looks like
• How snapper, yellowtail, and grouper fight 
• The fishing styles you’ll experience: live-bait slow trolling, bottom drops, casting, and mixed-bag days
• What the accommodations and food scene are like in La Paz 
• Best travel logistics: flying into La Paz vs. Cabo
• How the new Salt Patrol event in La Paz event works, what’s included, and what makes it special
• What non-anglers and families can do (beaches, tours, food, shopping, whale watching, snorkeling with sea lions, etc.)

Resources & Links Referenced in the Show

- Salt Patrol La Paz Event Information
- Angler West TV Episode featuring John & Eddie (roosterfish + snapper)
- Baja Pirates Website
- Ready to book? Call Eddie at 818-383-7463

Tours Mentioned:

• Espíritu Santo Island Tour (snorkeling, beaches, sea lions)
• Balandra Beach (“mushroom rock”)
• Whale shark + whale watching tours in La Paz

In this Black Friday special of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Captain Scott break down the best fishing-friendly deals you can grab this holiday season — from portable power stations to custom rods, killer reel discounts, and even a unique “deal” from WDFW that lets you skip the crowds and go catch jumbo trout instead.

Fresh off an epic razor clam dig, they share what’s actually worth spending your money on, what gear they personally use on the water, and how to turn Black Friday into a day of fishing memories with your family instead of battling long lines and chaotic parking lots.

What You’ll Learn

• The exact battery + solar power brands that hold up on real boats (and why wattage surge capacity matters).
• Why the Bluetti power stations are especially hot this year—and how they compare to Goal Zero.
• How to snag 40% off KastKing gear, including reels, combos, and the fillet knife they swear by.
• The benefits of custom-built Rainshadow rods and how to save 25% with a November-only code. 
• How to turn Black Friday into fishing day instead of shopping day using WDFW’s statewide jumbo trout stocking.
• Which lakes around Western Washington are currently stocked and ready for easy family fishing.
• December 5th at LFS in Bellingham - Ladies day deals you DO NOT want to miss!

Resources Mentioned

(When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) 

• Episode 39 – Powering Starlink + battery deep dive
• Bluetti Power Stations – various watt-hour models on Amazon 
• Pro Lite Custom Rods
  • Use code BUILDSEASON25 for 25% off (November only)
• KastKing Black Friday Deals – reels, combos & 40% off accessories
• KastKing Fillet Knife – ~$32 before discount (Please check this link, it’s the general one from the store but I didn’t know which knife you were referring to)
• WDFW Black Friday Trout Stocking Info – statewide jumbo trout list
• Anglers Unlimited Gold Inner Circle (monthly fishing seminars & resources)
• Ladies night at LFS

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Scott dive into one of their favorite winter traditions — razor clam digging on the Washington coast. Whether you’re planning your very first dig or looking to fine-tune your setup for better results, this episode walks you step-by-step through how to plan, gear up, find the clams, and cook them up into delicious meals.

From choosing the right tides and beaches to avoiding rookie mistakes and making the experience family-friendly, Jamie and Scott share their own wins, fails, and funny stories (including how not to camp in a windstorm 🌪️). By the end, you’ll feel ready and excited to grab your waders, dig some clams, and make unforgettable coastal memories.

What You’ll Learn

✅ How to plan your first razor clam dig — from picking tides to choosing the right beach
✅ Tips for booking the best coastal stays (including hidden deals and veteran-friendly spots)
✅ The essential gear setup — what to buy and what to skip.
✅ How to find clam “shows” and avoid wasting time digging in the wrong spot
✅ Cleaning and cooking your catch
✅ Family and kid-friendly tips to make clamming fun (and not cold and miserable!)
✅ Safety reminders for night digs, beach driving, and storing your catch properly

Resources Mentioned

(When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) 

• WDFW Razor Clam Updates & Tide Schedules
• Anglers Unlimited Gold Inner Circle (monthly fishing seminars & resources)
• Pacific Beach Resort & Recreation Area (Navy Lodging)
• Beau Mac Aluminum Clam Gun
• Clamming Net
  
  

In this week’s episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie shifts gears from the usual fishing talk to share unique winter adventures around Anacortes, Whidbey Island, and the San Juan Islands. Whether you want to stay connected to the water without launching the boat, or you’re craving new places to explore during the off-season, this episode covers three must-try winter ferry day trips—including hidden gems, coffee shops, hikes, island tips, and creative ways to boost your mood and productivity during the dark, rainy months.

What Listeners Will Learn

- Why winter in the San Juans is one of the best times to explore the islands
- Three ferry-based day trips perfect for solo adventures, families, or work-from-home creativity boosts
- How to use the Washington State Ferry schedule to plan your adventure
- Where to find the best coffee, breweries, bookstores, hikes, and scenic views
- Tips for biking the islands, visiting docks and marinas, and checking seasonal dock closures
- Lesser-known spots like the Guemes Island General Store, the Starlight Room theater, and quiet anchorages.

Resources Mentioned:

• Washington State Ferries 
• Join the Anglers Unlimited Gold Waitlist
• Salty Fox Coffee (San Juan Island) 
• San Juan Island Brewing Co. 
• Parks WA – Dock & State Park Information
• Better Living Through Coffee (Port Townsend)
• The Rose Theatre (Port Townsend)
• Guemes Island General Store

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Scott sit down with the multi-talented guide Brianna Bruce, owner of Livin’ Life Adventures — a year-round guide service covering nearly every fishery in Washington State. Brianna shares her inspiring story of turning her lifelong love for fishing into a full-time guiding career and how she’s helping anglers of all levels build skills and make memories on the water.

From salmon and steelhead to walleye and crappie — and yes, squid fishing — Brianna breaks down why exploring new fisheries is key to becoming a more versatile angler. You’ll learn her mindset for approaching any species, how to avoid common beginner mistakes, and why winter squid jigging might be the most fun (and delicious) way to stay fishing year-round.

What Listeners Will Learn:

✅How Brianna turned her childhood passion for fishing into a full-time guiding career
✅Why trying new fisheries like squid, kokanee, and crappie can make you a better angler overall
✅Brianna’s method for learning new fisheries quickly — from e-scouting to hands-on learning
✅The biggest mistakes beginners make (and how to fix them)
✅The surprising crossover skills between lingcod, walleye, and other species
✅How to prepare for and succeed at squid fishing in Puget Sound (even from the pier!)
✅Why mindset and patience matter more than catching limits

Resources Mentioned

- Livin’ Life Adventures – Book a trip with Brianna: www.livinlifeadventures.com
- Email Brianna: [email protected]
- Follow Brianna on Facebook: Livin’ Life Adventures
- Join the Anglers Unlimited Inner Circle waitlist to get access to Bree’s full training tutorial

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Scott take you behind the scenes of their elk hunting trip in Idaho — where staying connected meant relying on Starlink internet. They break down how Starlink keeps them online while traveling, fishing, or living off-grid, and why it’s become a total game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. From setup and power options to speed tests and satellite tracking, this episode gives you everything you need to know to stay connected anywhere your adventures take you.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ How Starlink works for travelers, boaters, and remote workers
✅ The difference between Starlink’s Residential, Roam, and Marine plans
✅ Powering your setup: using inverters, Goal Zero batteries, and even DeWalt tools
✅ How weather and terrain affect Starlink performance
✅ Mounting options for vehicles, boats, and campsites
✅ Safety tips for staying connected during hunts and fishing trips
✅ Pro hacks to save money and get gear deals at REI’s resupply section

Resources Mentioned: (When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) 

• Starlink Internet Plans
• Find Starlink Satellite Tracker
• Live Satellite Map
• Goal Zero Yeti 300 Battery
• REI Resupply (Used Gear Deals)
• DeWalt 20V Battery Adapters for Starlink: Available on Amazon

In this week’s episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie takes us deep into Idaho’s Selway wilderness for her first-ever elk hunt. With Scott out on the mountain and Starlink powering her remote setup, Jamie shares the lessons, surprises, and humbling beauty of stepping into a brand-new challenge.

From understanding elk migration patterns and predator behavior to embracing the beginner’s mindset and the power of disconnecting, this episode is packed with field-tested wisdom that applies to hunting, fishing, and life outdoors.

 What Listeners Will Learn

• Elk hunting basics — patterning movement, behavior, and seasonal shifts
• The importance of gear like Garmin inReach and Starlink for off-grid safety and communication
• How predator activity (like wolves) affects elk behavior and herd locations
• Elk migration and bedding patterns from real data and studies
• Why fire, elevation, and human pressure change hunting success
• The mindset shift that comes from doing something new and hard in nature

Resources Mentioned

• Garmin inReach Satellite Communicator 
• Starlink Internet for Remote Work
• Idaho Fish & Game Hunt Units Map  
• Elk Habitat Selection Research (Journal of Wildlife Management)
• Ungulate Migration in Changing CLimate Research
• OnX Hunt Mapping App 
• Interested in joining our inner circle community? Click here to join the waitlist!