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)

Welcome to the podcast! In this episode, we're diving deep into the exciting world of shad fly fishing on two of the Pacific Northwest’s iconic rivers — the Columbia and Willamette. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, this is your one-stop guide to chasing shad on the fly. We cover everything you need to know, including: 🔍 Water types shad prefer and how to read the river 🎯 Line selection: sink tips, shooting heads & more 🎣 Rod and reel setups that work best for shad 📍 Best locations to find shad on both rivers 🌊 Tide influence and how it affects your timing 🪰 Fly patterns that consistently produce strikes Grab your gear and tune in for insights, tips, and on-the-water strategies to help you hook into these hard-fighting fish. If you love fly fishing and want to expand your season, this episode is for you! 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop a comment if you’ve chased shad on the fly or have any questions.

#FlyFishing #ShadFishing #ColumbiaRiver #WillametteRiver #PNWFishing #FlyTying #FishingPodcast #ShadOnTheFly

Tide Link - https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noa...

Water Temp Columbia - https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring...

Water Temp Willamette - https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring...

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to build an inclusive, supportive fly fishing community—especially for new anglers and women who are stepping into the sport for the first time. Our guest Callie Freeman, shares their journey, challenges, and how creating space for connection, mentorship, and encouragement is changing the face of fly fishing. From local meetups to online forums, we talk about the power of showing up, asking questions, and finding your tribe on the water. Whether you're brand new to fly fishing, looking for community, or want to help others feel welcome in the sport, this episode is for you. Topics we cover: How to find or create a welcoming fly fishing group Breaking down barriers for women and beginners Why representation and mentorship matter Simple ways to connect with others on the water

https://missmayfly.com/

https://castingcarolinas.com/

https://www.stoneflymaidens.club/

👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who’s just getting started or could use a community like this!

#FlyFishingCommunity #WomenWhoFish #NewAnglers #FlyFishingLife #OutdoorSisterhood #FishingTogether #TightLines