Sink tips are one of the most misunderstood—and most important—parts of a spey system. In this technical episode, we break down sink tips for spey rods and explain how to fish them more efficiently.

We cover the key differences between “T” material tips and traditional “Type” tips, how sink rates change with different tip lengths, and why faster sinking doesn’t always mean better depth or presentation. We also talk through the tips we personally prefer, when we choose them, and how those choices lead to more consistent, efficient fishing.

This episode is geared toward anglers who want to understand why their system works—not just copy a setup.

In this episode:

T tips vs Type tips: density, construction, and performance

Sink rates explained (IPS vs real-world depth)

How tip length affects swing speed and fly depth

Matching sink tips to water type, flow, and rod

Our go-to sink tips and why we fish them

Common mistakes that kill efficiency

Whether you’re dialing winter steelhead water or refining your overall spey approach, this episode will help you fish deeper, cleaner, and with more control.

Portland Fly Shop Podcast: Swinging vs Nymphing for Steelhead

In this episode, we dive into the art of steelhead fly fishing and break down two essential techniques: swinging vs nymphing. Whether you’re new to the river or looking to refine your approach, we cover:

What nymphing is and how it works

The techniques for both nymphing and swinging

Key differences between the two styles

How to control depth and presentation for maximum results

Tips for reading the river and choosing the right approach

Whether you’re chasing fresh steelhead or just love talking flies, this episode is packed with insights from the Portland Fly Shop team to help you fish smarter and enjoy the river more.

Subscribe for more steelhead tips, fly selection advice, and all things fly fishing in the Pacific Northwest!

In this episode of our Spey for Steelhead series, we dive deep into one of the most important parts of successful steelheading: understanding depth control. We break down casting angles, fly selection, sink-tip choices, and the key techniques that help you achieve and maintain the right depth in a variety of water types.

Part 1:

Part 2:

If you’re looking to become more confident and intentional with your spey presentation—and catch more steelhead—this episode has you covered.

Welcome back to The Portland Fly Shop Podcast! In this episode, we dive into two core elements of successful steelheading with a spey rod: sink tips and fly selection. We start with a breakdown of sink tips—how they work, why we use them, and how to choose the right one for changing river conditions. Whether you’re new to spey casting or dialing in your winter setup, we’ll help simplify the process so you can fish more confidently and effectively.

In the second half, we shift into fly selection for steelhead. We talk size, profile, color, movement, and how to pair the right fly with water type and season. From traditional patterns to modern intruders. If you’re looking to improve your steelhead game and make better decisions on the water, this episode is packed with helpful insight.

Topics Covered

How sink tips work & why they matter

Matching sink tips to water speed and depth Seasonal considerations

Selecting steelhead flies by water type Profiles, colors & confidence patterns

If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Visit us at The Portland Fly Shop For gear, guided trips, and more education—stop in and say hello!

In this episode of our Pacific Northwest steelhead fly fishing podcast, we break down two of the most important topics for new and seasoned anglers alike:

Part 1: Spey Gear Selection – rods, reels, lines, tips, and how to balance your setup for success.

Whether you’re just starting your steelhead journey or looking to fine-tune your setup and approach, this episode will help you hit the water prepared.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more steelhead tactics, stories, and tips from lifelong guides Jason Osborn and Nick Wheeler.

#Steelhead #FlyFishing #SpeyCasting #PNW

Description:

Join hosts Jason Osborn and Nick Wheeler—each with over 20 years of guiding experience and deep roots in the fly fishing industry—as we kick things off with:

Our background, guiding history, and time on legendary PNW rivers.

What makes steelhead so unique (and addictive).

Steelhead lore, culture, and the passion that drives this community.

A few behind-the-scenes guide stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Whether you’re new to steelheading or a seasoned swung-fly addict, this series will dive deep into tactics, river systems, gear, timing, and the culture that surrounds the greatest gamefish of the Pacific Northwest.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next episodes in the series!

#Steelhead #FlyFishing #PacificNorthwest #SpeyCasting #SwingTheFly #Steelhea

Join us for a deep dive into one of Oregon’s most iconic trout fisheries — the McKenzie River. In this episode, we sit down with veteran guide Jim Sens to break down everything you need to know before hitting the water. From prime bank access points, to the major seasonal hatches and go-to fly patterns, we cover it all in technical detail. Whether you're floating or walking in, this episode is packed with tips that will help you fish the McKenzie smarter.

🎣 Topics covered:

Hit subscribe and get ready to level up your McKenzie River game.

#FlyFishing #McKenzieRiver #OregonFishing #FlyTying #TroutFishing

Looking to master lake fly fishing near Mt. Hood and Southwest Washington? This podcast episode covers everything you need to succeed on the water—from choosing the best lake flies and reading stillwater to understanding fish behavior, selecting the right fly lines, and dialing in your presentation techniques.

We break down:

Top fly patterns for high mountain and lowland lakes

How to read lake structure and find feeding fish

Seasonal strategies

Floating, intermediate & sinking line setups

Proven retrieves, rigs, and gear recommendations

Whether you’re fishing Timothy Lake, Lost Lake, Goose Lake, or Merrill Lake, this episode will give you the tools to catch more fish and enjoy the water even more. Perfect for beginner and advanced fly anglers!

📍 Regions Covered: Mt. Hood, Hood River, Clackamas, Gifford Pinchot, and SW Washington lakes

🔔 Like, subscribe, and drop your favorite lake in the comments!

In this episode of the Portland Fly Shop Podcast, we sit down with seasoned guide and Alaska DIY expert Jacob Zirkle to explore how you can launch your own fly fishing trip straight from the Anchorage airport. From rental cars to gear strategy, fish timing to backcountry access—Jacob shares practical insights and local knowledge to help you plan a successful, affordable, and unforgettable Alaska fly fishing adventure.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with legendary Deschutes River guide Brian Silvey as we break down everything you need to know about fly fishing the Deschutes during the summer months. From understanding water temps and hatch cycles to picking the right flies and fishing the best times of day, this episode is packed with knowledge for both new and seasoned anglers. We cover:

🎣 Key summer hatches (PMDs, Caddis, and more)