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This episode of Waypoints is a bit ... different. Host Jim Klug sits down with former White House Chief of Staff, Congressman, Mayor of Chicago, and U.S. Ambassador to Japan - Rahm Emanuel - for an out-of-the-ordinary, candid conversation that blends politics, perspective, and pure flyfishing obsession. While Rahm has been featured on countless political shows, this discussion steps away from pure campaign strategy and policy spin to explore how one of America’s most recognized political figures finds happiness and focus through flyfishing. From chasing peacock bass in the jungles of the Amazon to stalking trout in Montana, Rahm’s passion for the sport runs deep.

Known for his intensity and drive in the political arena, Emanuel opens up about how time on the water provides clarity, humility, and balance - and why conservation, access, and public lands should matter to every angler. The conversation ranges from global travel and favorite fisheries to flyfishing’s potential role in connecting people across political lines. It also touches on the current political climate in D.C. and the future of conservation and outdoor recreation policy. It’s an unexpected and refreshing look at a figure who may soon make headlines for much more than his casting stroke - and who just might be the one to bring flyfishing back to the White House in 2028!

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

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On this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug records on location in Punta Allen, Mexico with South African angler, adventurer, guide, and lodge manager Francois Botha. A true global traveler, Francois has spent his career working and fishing in some of the world’s most remote and exciting destinations - from Alaska’s wild rivers to the Indian Ocean atolls, from Central Africa to the Yucatán. Today, he and his wife Dasha manage the well-known Palometa Club on Ascension Bay, while also splitting time between Alaska and Africa. With decades of experience guiding, managing lodges, and exploring new waters, Francois brings a unique perspective on what it really takes to make a life in fly fishing.  

In this conversation, Jim and Francois dive into the realities of lodge life - the preparation, the grind, and the rewards of managing a world-class fishing operation. Francois talks about the challenges of running remote programs, the dynamics of working as a couple, the importance of versatility as a guide, and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating unforgettable guest experiences. They also explore how South African anglers have made such an outsized impact on the global fly fishing community, the differences in client expectations around the world, and what the future looks like for the next generation of destination anglers, explorers, and professional lodge managers.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

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- View the official Yellow Dog website

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In this special Waypoints episode, we turn the content and the questions over to our listeners - and dive into a wide range of travel questions submitted by the Waypoints audience. Joining host Jim Klug for this Q&A session are two well-known voices in the fly fishing community: Tom Bie, editor and publisher of The Drake Magazine, and artist, musician, and traveling angler Paul Puckett. Together, they share stories, insights, and practical advice from years of fishing around the globe. The result is a fun, informative, and wide-ranging discussion that covers everything from essential gear hacks to cultural considerations - making this a must-listen for anyone planning their next destination adventure.

From big-picture planning and choosing the right destinations, to gear preparation, packing strategies, travel logistics, and on-the-ground tips, this conversation is all about the realities of flyfishing travel. Whether you’re a first-time international angler or a seasoned traveler looking to refine your approach, the questions covered in this episode are designed to make your next trip smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
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- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

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On this episode of Waypoints, we sit down with one of the true giants of our sport - a man whose story is as rich and influential as any in the world of flyfishing. Chico Fernández is a pioneer, teacher, innovator, and a lifelong ambassador for the art of casting flies in saltwater. From his early days in Miami shaping the very foundation of modern saltwater fly fishing, to decades spent writing, teaching, tying, and traveling the globe, Chico’s fingerprints are all over the evolution of this sport. His books on bonefish and redfish are still regarded as essential reading, and his iconic fly patterns - like the Seaducer and the Bonefish Special - continue to catch fish (and fill fly boxes) around the world.

Born in Cuba and exiled to Florida as a teenager, Chico brought with him a bamboo rod, a love of jazz, and a passion for fishing that would shape the rest of his life. From late-night tarpon missions in the Keys with a young Flip Pallot, to gear design work with some of the biggest names in the industry, to adventures in the Amazon, the Yucatán, the Indian Ocean and beyond, Chico’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, we dig deep into his story: the early days, the philosophy that’s guided his life, and the lessons learned along the way. If you love saltwater flyfishing and if you value the soul of this sport, then this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
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- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

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Today on Waypoints, we’re heading north to Alberta and British Columbia – an area that is home to vast landscapes, wild rivers, prairie grasslands, and a setting that rivals anything found in the American West. Joining us is Dave Brown of Dave Brown Outfitters, a pioneer in Canadian flyfishing who has spent more than three decades shaping one of the largest and most respected outfitting operations in the region. A former paratrooper and decorated infantry leader, Dave’s path into guiding was anything but conventional, and his story is as unique as the waters he calls home.

From the iconic Bow River to the freestone streams of the Canadian Rockies, and from dry-fly browns and rainbows to the pursuit of wild steelhead, Dave has built an outfitting program that blends professionalism, wilderness adventure, and next-level customer service. In this episode, we talk with Dave about his military background, his journey into guiding, and what makes Alberta and B.C. such special – and easy – destinations for anglers. We’ll also explore how he’s grown a cross-border operation that seamlessly combines flyfishing, wingshooting, and Western adventure while staying true to the craft of guiding and the conservation of the waters he depends on.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
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- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

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In this episode of Waypoints, we head to the heart of Central America for a deep dive into one of the most diverse and exciting fly fishing destinations in the world: Costa Rica. Host Jim Klug is joined by Chuck Hill and Marvin Rodriguez, the founders of 4 Corners Costa Rica - an innovative outfitting operation that offers an incredibly-diverse line-up of options and itineraries for fishing this extraordinary country. From the tarpon-filled jungle rivers of the Caribbean coast to the Pacific’s roosterfish and bluewater species, 4 Corners has built a seamless, multi-location program that combines serious fishing with immersive cultural experiences. For traveling anglers looking to chase a wide range of exotic species while experiencing the full breadth of Costa Rica’s beauty and hospitality, this is the ultimate custom-built adventure.

Over the course of the episode, Jim, Chuck, and Marvin explore what makes Costa Rica such a unique angling destination - from the logistics of switching coasts in a single itinerary to the details of their personalized approach to customized trip planning. Listeners will hear about the different fisheries, the species available year-round, the gear needed to target everything from giant tarpon to jungle snook and offshore marlin, and off course advice on how to plan the ultimate Costa Rican getaway. Whether you’re a Costa Rica fishing veteran or new to Central American angling, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how 4 Corners is changing the way people experience fly fishing in Costa Rica - one unforgettable corner at a time.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
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- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

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On this episode of Waypoints, we sit down with one of the most innovative and influential minds in modern fly fishing — the legendary Blane Chocklett. A pioneer in streamer design and the creative force behind the iconic Game Changer fly, Blane has spent decades pushing the boundaries of how we tie, present, and think about flies. From his roots fishing the rivers of Virginia to creating patterns that now travel the globe, his impact on the sport is undeniable. In this episode, we dive into the philosophies that drive his design work, the crossover between conventional and fly tackle, and how movement and action are everything when it comes to triggering aggressive eats from predatory species.

We also dig into the stories behind the flies, Blane’s guiding background, his travel experiences chasing exotic species, and the founding of his own fly design company — The Chocklett Factory. Whether you’re a musky junkie, a trout streamer devotee, or a saltwater angler looking to breathe new life into your fly selection, this conversation is full of insight, creativity, and inspiration. Blane shares thoughts on conservation, mentorship, and what the future holds for innovation in the sport. Tune in for a conversation with a true original — someone who’s not just tied flies, but transformed how we fish them.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
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- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

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In this special episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug sits down with longtime friend, business partner, and fellow saltwater addict Ian Davis to talk about an incredible project nearly a decade in the making. Ian – a renowned angler, illustrator, fly designer, and global trip host – has just released his highly anticipated new book, A Passion for Bonefish. This landmark publication is the result of more than eight years of dedicated work, extensive travel, in-depth research, and conversations with some of the most legendary names in saltwater fly fishing. The book is more than just a technical guide or glossy photo journal. Rather, it’s a heartfelt tribute to one of the most iconic fish in the sport and a celebration of the places, people, and culture that surround the pursuit of bonefish.

As the co-owner of Yellow Dog Flyfishing (a sponsor of Waypoints), Ian brings a wealth of personal experience to the conversation - having chased bonefish across the globe for more than 30 years. In this episode, Ian and Jim dive deep into the evolution of the book, the insights it delivers, and the reasons why bonefish continue to capture the hearts of so many fly anglers. From gear tips and fly selection to destination highlights, conservation concerns, and bonefishing strategy, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who love fishing the flats and those that plan to in the future. Whether you’re new to bonefishing or a seasoned saltwater veteran, Ian’s knowledge, stories, and passion for the species shine through in what promises to be one of the most engaging episodes of the season.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
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- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

...

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In this episode of Waypoints, we travel to the Bay Islands of Honduras to explore one of the most underrated and unknown saltwater destinations in the Caribbean — the island of Guanaja. Jim Klug sits down with Steve Brown, the founder of Fly Fish Guanaja and the visionary behind the Faraway Cayes program, for a deep dive into a 25-year journey that blends pioneering adventure, flats fishing obsession, conservation, and a deep commitment to local communities. From permit and bonefish to the realities of building and operating a remote, Central American lodge operation from the ground up, this conversation explores what it means to create something truly special in a part of the world that is still largely off the radar.

Steve shares his incredible story — from early exploratory missions and reviving a historic fishery, to launching a second ultra-remote camp 160 miles offshore. Listeners will get an inside look at the angling opportunities on Guanaja’s technical flats, the distinct experience of Faraway Cayes, and why both operations offer something rare in today’s flyfishing world: true saltwater wilderness, low pressure, and meaningful purpose. Whether you’re dreaming of tailing permit or curious about how world-class fisheries are discovered, launched, and protected, this episode offers both inspiration and information for every traveling angler.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Facebook
- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

...

Send us a Text: Ask Us a Question!

In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug welcomes one of the most respected and impactful voices in the world of fly fishing — Craig Mathews. Known widely as the founder and former owner of Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone, Montana, Craig has spent decades immersed in the rivers, tributaries, and backcountry waters of Yellowstone National Park and the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. A former Chief of Police turned conservationist, fly shop owner, author, and advocate, Craig’s journey is as remarkable as the landscape he’s dedicated his life to protecting. With a career rooted in wild trout, groundbreaking fly design, and environmental stewardship, Craig reflects on his early years in the Park, the founding and rise of his iconic fly shop, and the countless innovations and conservation efforts that have defined his legacy.

Jim and Craig dive into an expansive conversation covering everything from the challenges of launching a fly shop in the 1980s to the evolution of Yellowstone’s trout populations and the gear that Craig still swears by. They discuss the origins of legendary fly patterns, Craig’s early trips to Belize when it was still British Honduras, and his central role in the founding of 1% for the Planet. Craig shares firsthand stories of protecting public access at Three Dollar Bridge, restoring native trout, and why he believes anglers today must take responsibility - and step up - when it comes to protecting the waters they love. Whether you’re a seasoned Yellowstone veteran or planning your first visit, this episode is full of hard-earned wisdom, humor, and inspiration from one of the true giants of the sport.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.

Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They’re made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.

- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Facebook
- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog website

...