Fishing for a Reason

In this new episode of the Fishing for a Reason podcast, we dive deep into the art of shrimping in the San Juan Islands! Whether you're brand new to shrimping or looking to fine-tune your setup for better results, this episode is packed with tips, tricks, and real-world advice. 

What You’ll Learn:
 🦐 The simple, effective bait mix that gets results
 🪣 How to prep, pack, and store your bait
 🛶 The right way to measure and manage your daily shrimp limits
 📍 Detailed breakdown of productive shrimping spots
 🌊 Understanding tides, currents, and drift to avoid losing your pots
 ⚠️ Pro tips on safety, buoy placement, and avoiding common mistakes
 🔥 Best ways to cook your spot prawns – from seawater boils to ceviche!

When to Drop Pots:
 📅 Opening Day Example: May 21
 ✅ Look for < 1 knot current
 ✅ Avoid windy days and shipping lanes
 ⏰ Drop early and avoid peak tides
 📍 Drift check before dropping to ensure correct placement

Links & Resources:

🎣 Join Anglers Unlimited Gold Membership for exclusive fishing maps and bonus training
Get your shrimp Pot Diagram here → anglersunlimited.co/shrimp
Tag us @AnglersUnlimited.co on Instagram or hop into our free Anglers Unlimited San Juan Islands Facebook community. We'd love to celebrate your next big win!

👉 Subscribe to the Fishing for a Reason Podcast so you never miss an episode!

In this new episode of Fishing For a Reason, Jamie and Scott from Anglers Unlimited dive into all things lingcod fishing just as the season kicks off in the San Juan Islands! They also recap the latest halibut derby—including the big winners, top fishing spots, and some wild weather—and preview the highly anticipated shrimping season and in-person seminar coming up in Anacortes.

From gear recommendations and favorite fishing spots to hilarious stories and one monster 48-inch lingcod, you’ll get a front-row seat to what fishing life looks like right now in the PNW. Plus, Jamie shares fascinating research about lingcod behavior and biology that will level up your fishing game.

 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

• The best lingcod fishing locations in Marine Area 7
• Halibut derby highlights & how to target halibut in tough conditions
• Gear talk: Scott’s go-to baits and jig setups (RIP Sexy Penny) 
• Lingcod science: How they spawn, why they’re homebodies & how regulations protect the fishery
• Shrimping tips & seminar details (coming up May 16 at ESI in Anacortes)
• Upcoming derbies to mark on your calendar

 Mark Your Calendar:

• Shrimping Seminar: May 16 @ 4 PM Essential Shipyard Industries – 1910 Skyline Way, Anacortes
• Fish Northwest Derby: May 31 – June 1
• Resurrection Salmon Derby: August 16 –17 in Anacortes

 Links & Resources:

• Join Anglers Unlimited Gold Membership for exclusive fishing maps and bonus training
• Essential Shipyard Industries
• Puget Sound Anglers Fidalgo San Juan Chapter – Derby Info
• McKay Shrimp & Crab – Coffin Pot
• Action Plastics Shad Baits

Get Involved:
Have questions about lingcod, shrimping, or want to join a guided trip? Reach out or join us at one of our upcoming events!

Subscribe & Share:

Love this episode? Leave a review, subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and share it with a fishing buddy who’s ready to reel in something BIG.

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie and Scott Propst dive into a full trip report from their recent fishing adventure to Sekiu and Neah Bay, Washington. Scott shares firsthand experience about planning for the April Blackmouth opener, what to know about lodging, docking, supplies, and how to safely navigate the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

You'll hear about:

• How to prepare for fishing blackmouth, lingcod, and black rockfish.
• Lodging and marina options in Sekiu and Neah Bay.
• Weather and tidal considerations for boating or trailering to the area.
• Fishing tackle, trolling patterns, and techniques that worked best.
• Key tips for first-timers.

Bonus for Anglers Unlimited Gold Members:
Scott and Jamie walk through the exact Navionics charts and trolling patterns they used — available exclusively inside the Gold membership community!

Links & Resources Mentioned:

🎣 Join Anglers Unlimited Gold Membership for exclusive fishing maps and bonus training
📍 MarineWeather.net — Strait of Juan de Fuca marine forecast
🧭 WindHub App — Best for advanced wind and weather models
🗺️ DeepZoom — Tide and current modeling for your trip planning

Tired of waiting all day for a halibut bite—and going home empty-handed? In this episode, Jamie Propst breaks down the science and strategy behind the one halibut fishing tactic most anglers overlook: chumming. Learn how understanding scent, amino acids, and current patterns can completely change your success on the water. Plus, get Jamie’s favorite chum recipe, blending tips, and tactical tips for a chum-tastic day!

🎣 Ever drop anchor, wait all day for halibut… and go home frustrated?
 You’re not alone — but the good news is, there’s a fix. And it’s simpler than you think.

In this episode, Jamie Propst from Anglers Unlimited dives into the #1 overlooked halibut fishing tactic: building an effective chumming strategy.

She shares personal stories, real-world fishing experiences, and the fascinating science behind why scent matters way more than you might realize.

Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:

• Why scent is the real secret weapon for halibut success
• The biology of how halibut detect bait (and why it matters)
• Which amino acids (alanine + glycine) trigger halibut feeding responses
• Top bait choices packed with scent-attracting power
• How current speed and bait spacing impact your chum trail
• The "first hour" rule you must know when chumming
• How to make chum-tastic “chumsicles” and store them for fishing trips
• Why you need a dedicated bait blender (trust us on this one…)

🎁 Want Jamie’s proven chum recipe?
 Download the Halibut Chum Recipe Cheat Sheet at anglersunlimited.co/chum — you’ll get a full walkthrough, ingredient list, and pro tips to get your chum game dialed in.

📸 Show us your halibut catch!
Tag us @AnglersUnlimited.co on Instagram or hop into our free Anglers Unlimited San Juan Islands Facebook community. We'd love to celebrate your next big win!

👉 Subscribe to the Fishing for a Reason Podcast so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we dive into the nitty gritty details of three friends who hiked the John Muir Trail (JMT). Join us as we explore their hilarious mishaps, moments of discovery, and valuable lessons learned along the way. From gear recommendations to tips for overcoming challenges, this episode is packed with insights for aspiring JMT hikers.

About Today's Guests

Andy (Andrea) Castan

Andy takes the seat of Guest Host and interviews Jamie Propst this week. As Jamie’s mom, she has had a front-row seat to the planning and prepping for this wild adventure and graciously offered to interview the crew on their shared experience. Andy is also an adventurer herself, just completing The Great Loop by boat with her husband, Darth. Tune in to their story on Episode 11.

Scott Propst

Scott is a retired Navy veteran and co-host of the Fishing for a Reason Podcast. He has a passion for the outdoors, and he's an experienced fisherman who enjoys exploring nature's beauty. This JMT hike was a new challenge for Scott, but he embraced the opportunity to test his limits and discover the wonders of the Sierra Nevada.

John De Pree

John is an active-duty professor of Naval Science at Oregon State University and a lifelong adventurer. He's a seasoned hunter with a deep appreciation for the outdoors. The JMT was a new kind of adventure for John that challenged him in ways he did not expect. Listen to the number 15 to learn more.

What You'll Learn:

• The challenges and rewards of hiking the JMT
• Essential gear and tips for a successful JMT hike
• How to build camaraderie and support with fellow hikers
• The importance of preparation and planning for a long-distance trail
• Inspiring stories of overcoming obstacles

Resources:

• Pacific Crest Trail Association: JMT History 
• Recreation.gov for obtaining JMT Permits
• Nemo Women’s sleeping bag 
• Join our free Community Anglers Unlimited FB Community

In this Fishing for a Reason Podcast episode, Jamie Propst shares her incredible journey hiking the John Muir Trail. She covers everything you need to know about this iconic adventure, from planning and preparation to the challenges and rewards. Listen as she recounts her experiences, shares tips for planning your trip, and discusses the beauty of the trail.

Watch on YouTube and hit subscribe to never miss an episode.

What You’ll Learn

• Tips for planning a John Muir Trail hike 
• How to obtain permits and prepare for the journey.
• Insights into the challenges and rewards of hiking the trail.
• Information about the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of the Sierra Nevada.
• Tips for fishing along the trail.

Resources

• Pacific Crest Trail Association: JMT History 
• Recreation.gov for obtaining JMT Permits 
• REI Bear Cans 
• Book: Journeys North, the Pacific Crest Trail by Barney Scout Man
• Join our free Anglers Unlimited FB Community

Join Jamie Propst as he sits down with Andy Castan, a seasoned boater who recently completed The Great Loop. In this episode, Andy shares her incredible journey, from navigating challenging waters and planning the trip with hardly any boating experience to meeting fascinating people along the way. Discover the highlights, challenges, and valuable insights from this epic adventure.

About Today's Guest: Andy Castan

Andy Castan, recently retired from the FAA, is a passionate boater turned blogger who just completed The Great Loop with her husband Darth (yes, like Darth Vader). The Great Loop is a 6,000-mile journey across the inland waterways of the United States and the East Coast. In this episode, Jamie interviews Andy (her mother) about their epic adventure and what it took to make this dream a reality!

What You'll Learn:

• The challenges and rewards of The Great Loop
• Tips for planning and navigating The Great Loop
• Insights into “looper” lifestyle and community
• Personal stories and experiences from Andy's journey will help you prepare for your next boating adventure, regardless of your experience.

Resources:

• American Great Loop Cruisers Association (AGLCA)
• Nebo App
• Scho and Jo (YouTube Channel)
• Andy’s Blog
• Anglers Unlimited Free Facebook Community
• Marriage Savers

Thank you for listening to Fishing for a Reason! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you liked it, please share it with a fellow boater who may be interested in this epic boating adventure! 

In this episode of Fishing for a Reason, Jamie Propst shares her journey with fishing and its profound impact on her life. From overcoming challenges to finding purpose and connection, Jamie offers valuable insights and inspiration for listeners of all levels.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: CLICK HERE TO WATCH

What You'll Learn

• The personal benefits of fishing beyond catching fish
• How to overcome challenges and setbacks in your fishing journey
• Tips for creating lasting memories with loved ones through fishing
• The importance of connecting with nature and the environment

Resources & Links

Anglers Unlimited

Join the Free Facebook Community

Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe to Fishing for a Reason on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed the show, give us a rating. That is the best way to support this podcast and get it out to more fish-nerds like us. Happy fishing!

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of glow gear with the experienced fisherman Daniel Roehl. Daniel shares his expertise on using glow gear to attract fish and improve your fishing success. We discuss the science behind glow gear, how to choose the right equipment, and effective fishing techniques.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: CLICK HERE TO WATCH

About Today's Guest

Daniel Roehl is a passionate fisherman with years of experience on the water. He has developed a deep understanding of fishing techniques and is exceptionally skilled at using his Glow Tube technology to enhance his catches.

What You'll Learn

• The science behind glow gear and how it attracts fish
• How to choose the right glow gear for different fishing conditions
• Effective fishing techniques using glow gear
• Tips for using glow gear in various species and locations

Resources & Links:

Glow Tube Website 

Ace High Flies

Squid Pro Flashers

Gibbs Halibut Uchi

Everett Coho Derby

Edmonds Coho Derby

Resurrection Derby

Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe to Fishing for a Reason on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed the show, give us a rating. That is the best way to support this podcast and get it out to more fish-nerds like us. Happy fishing!

Join us for an exciting Fishing for a Reason episode, where we sit down with the legendary Darren Small, a seasoned fishing pro with decades of experience. In this episode, Darren shares his expert tips on fishing techniques, derby strategies, and coho salmon fishing.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: CLICK HERE TO WATCH

About Today's Guest

Darren Small, also known as "Black Dog," is a passionate angler with a proven track record of success. He has won numerous fishing derbies and has extensive fishing knowledge in the San Juan Islands.

What You Will Learn

• Expert tips for fishing derbies.
• How to catch coho salmon effectively.
• The best fishing spots in the San Juan Islands.
• Darren's fishing journey and experiences.

Resources and Links Referenced in the Show

• Resurrection Derby: Link to Website 
• Puget Sound Anglers Club: Link to website 
• Edmonds Coho Derby: Link to Website
• Everett Coho Derby: Link to Website
• Coho Killer Lures: Get Them Here
• Sea Ghost Spoons: Get Them Here

Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe to Fishing for a Reason on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed the show, give us a rating. That is the best way to support this podcast and get it out to more fish-nerds like us. Happy fishing!