Our destination is the massive Upper Columbia River in southeastern British Columbia, with football-field-sized back eddies, hydraulics that'll flip drift boats, and rainbow trout that'll bend your rod like a bonefish.   Joining me is veteran guide, Kelly Laatsch, general manager of St. Mary's Angler, Cranbrook, BC, who's spent three decades mastering these waters.

Today, Kelly opens his playbook, sharing secrets on fly fishing extreme hydraulics, why a single-fly rigs is a good strategy, and pointers on guiding men vs women.  We'll also touch on BC’s legendary Elk, St. Mary, and Skookumchuck rivers, plus Argentina’s trout paradise. Stick around for a wild story of 400-pound sturgeon—and an unforgettable first date.

With host Steve Haigh

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Contact Kelly:      https://www.stmaryangler.com/    Instagram @stmaryanglerflyshop  Facebook @StMaryAnglerBC

Destination Angler Podcast:  

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Adamsbuilt Fishing 

THE trusted source for quality fly fishing gear, built to last at an affordable price. Waders, Nets, Outerwear. 

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High N Dry Fishing

Where science and performance meet.  Check out the full lineup of Floatants, Line Dressings, and Sighter Waxes at www.highndryfishingproducts.com 

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Comments & Suggestions:  host, Steve Haigh, email [email protected]

Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Recorded July 10, 2025