On this episode of WAYPOINTS, we venture to the land of fire and ice, where towering volcanoes, glacial rivers, and gin-clear waters create one of the most stunning fly fishing landscapes on Earth. Joining host Jim Klug is Kristján Rafnsson, the founder and CEO of Iceland’s Fish Partner – the country’s premier fly fishing outfitter. What started as a side project for Kristjan more than a decade ago has grown into Iceland’s leading operation, managing 18 rivers, 40 lakes, and multiple full-service lodges. With a huge diversity of waters, Kristjan’s programs offer anglers unparalleled access to Atlantic salmon, sea-run brown trout, Arctic char, and Iceland’s legendary wild browns. In this episode, Kristján shares his journey from guide to entrepreneur, the challenges of running an outfitting business in Iceland’s unique fishing system, and why Iceland’s waters have become a must-visit destination for anglers worldwide. We’ll explore the draw of Iceland’s massive trout, the country’s private fishing lease system, how American anglers have fueled the rise of Iceland’s popularity, and what it takes to plan the perfect fishing adventure in this otherworldly landscape. This episode delivers everything you need to know about fishing, traveling, and experiencing the wild beauty of Iceland.

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On this episode of WAYPOINTS, we head deep into the Canadian wilderness, where endless lakes, rivers, and untouched landscapes create one of North America’s most remote and pristine fly fishing destinations — Gangler’s North Seal River Lodge. Joining us is Ken Gangler, a pioneer in the Canadian outfitting industry and the driving force behind one of the most legendary lodges in the North. Located on a private 6-million-acre concession in northern Manitoba, Gangler’s offers exclusive access to world-class fishing for trophy northern pike, lake trout, Arctic grayling, and walleye. We’ll dive into Ken’s journey, the challenges of running a luxury lodge in such a remote and wild environment, and what makes this region so special for anglers seeking adventure. From fly-out fishing opportunities and Canadian Grand Slams to wilderness experiences, conservation efforts, and the unique culture of Gangler’s North Seal, this episode is an inside look at one of the greatest freshwater fishing operations in North America. Whether you’re an experienced pike-on-the-fly fanatic or planning your first northern adventure, Ken shares everything you need to know about the ultimate Canadian fishing experience.

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On this episode of WAYPOINTS, host Jim Klug sits down with Cheryl Bastian, the owner and founder of Swain’s Cay Lodge on Andros Island, Bahamas. As the leader of a 100% Bahamian-owned-and-operated fishing lodge, Cheryl has spent the past 16 years building one of the most well-known and respected operations in the Out Islands. We talk with Cheryl about how she built Swain’s Cay into a premier fishing destination, known for its hospitality, world-class bonefishing, and deep connection to the local guide community. We’ll also discuss the challenges of running a remote fishing lodge, the importance of community partnerships, the unique relationships between lodges and independent guides, and the ongoing debate over DIY fishing regulations in the Bahamas. Whether you’re a seasoned Andros angler or dreaming of your first trip, this conversation delivers valuable insights on the future of fly fishing, conservation, and adventure travel in the Bahamas.

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In this captivating episode, we welcome back fly fishing legend Brian O’Keefe to discuss the ever-evolving world of fly fishing travel. With decades of experience as an angler, photographer, and industry icon, Brian shares his insights into the changing landscape of destination angling, from the after-effects of the pandemic to the latest travel trends shaping the sport. Host Jim Klug and Brian discuss how travel patterns have shifted across generations, and what it takes to plan the perfect fishing trip in today’s complex world. Whether you’re an avid traveler or a someone who is new to destination angling, Brian’s invaluable tips, hilarious tales, and forward-looking advice will inspire and inform your next adventure.

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In this episode of WAYPOINTS, we dive into the remarkable conservation story of Turneffe Atoll, Belize's largest national marine reserve, with conservation pioneer Craig Hayes. As the founder of the renowned Turneffe Flats Lodge, Hayes has spent decades safeguarding this extraordinary ecosystem while establishing a model for sustainable eco-tourism.

Discover how Turneffe Atoll's rich biodiversity—from thriving bonefish populations to mangrove-covered creeks—has become a global treasure for anglers and conservationists. Learn about the groundbreaking initiatives Hayes has championed, including national catch-and-release protections and a ban on gillnets, which have bolstered Belize’s fisheries and economy.

As Hayes looks toward the future, we’ll discuss the pressing challenges of habitat destruction and the innovative steps being taken to ensure Turneffe Atoll remains a vibrant ecosystem for generations to come. Whether you’re an angler, conservationist, or lover of coastal ecosystems, this episode will inspire and inform.

🎧 Tune in to hear how passion, business, and sustainability intersect to create lasting environmental impact.

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In this episode of Waypoints, the focus is on technical gear and packing solutions for the traveling angler, with special guest Ben Kurtz, co-owner and President of Fishpond USA. Fishpond is a leading manufacturer of high-quality, packs, sustainable fly fishing travel solutions, and accessories designed for anglers who thrive on adventure, exploration, and the next great destination. The conversation delves into the evolution of luggage and gear construction, the most important features to consider when designing travel gear, how the company works hard to cater to the needs of traveling fly fishers, how new products are actually tested, and at what point a product is ready to bring to market.

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In this episode of Waypoints, we sit down with Peter Knox, the lead fly rod designer at Sage, a company renowned for its high-performance fly rods and innovation in rod technologies. Founded in 1980 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, Sage was the first to introduce fast-action, powerful graphite fly rods, and today, the company has grown into one of the most respected brands in the fishing industry. The discussion centers around Sage’s history, commitment to quality, and its evolution into a top-tier rod manufacturer using cutting-edge materials and engineering. A key figure in flyfishing rod design, Knox has played a significant role in creating Sage’s advanced products, including the R8 Core and SALT R8 series. Throughout the episode, he delves into the complexities of rod engineering, focusing on performance, user experience, and pushing the boundaries of what fly rods can achieve.

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Slovenia is renowned for its crystal-clear rivers, stunning alpine scenery, and diverse fish species – including the iconic marble trout and the hucho hucho taimen. With so much diversity and an incredible number of rivers, Slovenia offers fly anglers what may be the best freshwater fishing in all of Europe – in an area that without question delivers some of the most beautiful natural landscapes on the continent. Slovenia’s strong conservation efforts and the protection of native species like the marble trout, taimen, and European grayling – have helped maintain and support thriving fish populations and a legitimate angling infrastructure for years. In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug sits down down with Slovenian angler and outfitter Rok Lustrik – a renowned fly fishing guide and founder of Slovenia’s “Lustrik Fly Fishing.” Passionate about fishing since the age of 12, Rok turned his hobby into a profession in 2000, establishing himself as one of the first guides in Slovenia. His expertise and experience with the rivers and waters of this amazing European country are unmatched, and with his deep knowledge of the region, a well-known commitment to conservation, and a lifetime of experience fishing for trout, taimen, and grayling, there is no one more qualified to talk about the unique fishing opportunities found throughout Slovenia.

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In this episode of Waypoints, we sit down with Chris Walker, the Lead Product Designer and R&D Manager at RIO Products – a brand recognized for its innovation and leadership in fly lines, leaders, and tippet. Chris addresses critical topics related to leaders and tippet set-ups, which are arguably the most significant elements directly connecting an angler to fish. He discusses common questions surrounding material options, performance metrics, and the confusion anglers often face when selecting leaders and tippet for specific scenarios. Chris also dives into key considerations like strength-to-diameter ratios, knot strength, fluorocarbon versus nylon materials, and how to match tippet and leader choices to different fishing conditions to ensure the best performance on the water.

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Tom Kiernan is the President and CEO of American Rivers – the non-profit environmental advocacy group that has been a leader in protecting and restoring rivers throughout the United States for the past 50 years. There is no doubt that the rivers of our nation are currently facing severe threats and challenges due to climate change, unnecessary dams, pollution, floods, and outdated government policies – which is why American Rivers’ work and mission is more important than ever. Host Jim Klug talks with Tom about current the biggest challenges and threats facing our rivers (and our sport), recent wins and developments that provide hope for the future, the issue of dam removal, ho to reconnect rivers to ensure healthy fisheries, the current status of the Pebble Mine fight in Bristol Bay, and how American Rivers has been successful at working across party lines at a time when Washington D.C. seems to be more divided than ever. If you’re an angler that cares about conservation and fighting for the resources that our sport depends on, this is one episode that you definitely want to download!

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