Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/671

Presented By: Stonefly Nets, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Have you ever been confused about how to choose the best fly line for your next fly rod? Did you know that line companies typically overweight lines out of the box to help us out? And are you interested in learning about the process of getting the perfect line for the exact situation you will be fishing this year? Today, we take a trip back into Scientific Anglers, so you have a clear path of selecting the best and perfect line for your next big trip this season.

Josh Jenkins, R&D manager at Scientific Anglers will shed light on what's new this season and some of their best-selling fly lines. You're going to get some background on the core and the coating and understand how this will help you understand which lines to choose. You're going to discover how to match the leader with your fly line and why the leader is essentially just a mini fly line. We're going to get into that today and we're also going to find out how and why you should be choosing the fly line first and matching your rod to the fly line. Better put, we're going to show you why fly leader line rod and reel is the order you should follow. Josh clarifies it all today.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/671

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/670

Presented By: Togens Fly Shop, FishHound Expeditions, TroutRoutes, Angler's Coffee

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Josh Mills, a seasoned expert from the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers team, as well as a board member of the Wild Steelhead Coalition and an accomplished steelhead fly tier, is set to guide us through the Clearwater River and public waters and lands.

Today, you'll learn how to adjust your reel technique for enhanced stealth. We'll also provide an update on the status of the Lower Snake River dams and their current developments. Additionally, you'll discover what a public lands yard sale entails. Moreover, we'll analyze a significant western stream to improve your success on the water this year. Together, we'll delve deep into the topics of steelhead fishing and conservation. Let's begin our journey.

Episode Chapters with Josh Mills on Public Waters and Lands

3:19 - We talk about our top destinations for steelhead fishing. Josh feels fortunate to fish in local rivers like the Clearwater and Salmon, but he reminisces about a memorable trip to the Skeena region in 2012 and plans to return in 2025. He also dreams of fishing in Northern California, inspired by historical figures in the steelhead community.

12:15 - Josh discusses his fishing strategy, focusing on the Clearwater River. He fishes the Clearwater from August through September, as fish from different basins, including the Snake and Grand Ronde Rivers, seek the cold water as a thermal refuge. He notes the Clearwater can be a challenging but rewarding river to fish. Once the thermal block breaks, fish often return to the Snake River, and Josh shifts his focus to the Grand Ronde system.

16:11 - We ask Josh for advice on fly patterns for steelhead fishing on the Deschutes River in October. He responds by emphasizing the unpredictable nature of steelhead fishing, suggesting that success often depends on the angler's confidence and intuition rather than specific fly patterns. He explains that steelhead are curious and might bite at almost anything due to aggression, predatory instincts, or curiosity.

23:31 - We dig into his involvement with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) and the Wild Steelhead Coalition. He initially got involved by running fundraisers and joining the board of the latter, which led him deeper into conservation efforts. He started volunteering with BHA in 2015, an organization dedicated to protecting public lands and waters in North America. Josh felt compelled to protect these lands, recognizing their importance for recreation and conservation.

28:57 - We get into the complexities of public land and water access laws in the United States, particularly focusing on differences between states. Josh elaborates on the varied stream access laws across states, highlighting how states like Washington, Idaho, and Montana have more permissive laws, while Colorado and Utah face significant challenges.

42:37 - We discuss Josh's experiences and growth in fly fishing. Josh emphasizes the continuous nature of learning and improving in fishing. He talks about the technical skills involved, such as casting and line management, and how observing skilled anglers like Brian Chou and others has inspired him. Josh admires their proficiency in handling challenging conditions and accurately predicting fish locations.

Josh acknowledges that despite trying to replicate the techniques of skilled anglers, there are subtle differences in execution that impact results. He emphasizes the importance of learning from others and adapting various techniques, such as transitioning between different fly lines.

45:58 - We compare fishing the Clearwater River versus in the Deschutes. Josh highlights the former's larger size, which offers more room for casting and allows for different fishing techniques. He notes that unlike the Deschutes, where sun orientation impacts fishing strategies, the Clearwater allows for dry line fishing throughout winter. He also mentions the genetic traits of Clearwater fish that make them more likely to rise through the water.

Additionally, he compares the river sizes and flow variability, explaining how the Clearwater's dam-controlled nature affects fishing conditions. Despite the challenges, Josh appreciates the unique fishing opportunities both rivers offer, with each having its own "secrets" and characteristics.

49:07 - Josh gives some valuable tips on fishing for steelhead in Clearwater. He suggests visiting the Red Shed Fly Shop for advice and emphasizes the importance of focusing on manageable sections of large rivers. He explains that understanding where fish rest and conserving energy is crucial. For rods, Josh notes that it varies with the season. He enjoys using a 15-foot rod with a 60-foot line but adapts his technique based on conditions.

54:39 - We discuss the dynamics of fly fishing, particularly focusing on the experience of fishing with highly skilled casters. Josh admits he is an average caster but values learning from experts like Calvin Fuller, and Brian Chou, who demonstrate exceptional skill and understanding of the craft. He recounts experiences at a steelhead camp, highlighting how observing and learning from others is invaluable.

58:30 - Josh shares his passion for tying steelhead flies, which he considers his favorite due to their intricate construction. He emphasizes the importance of learning from various resources and incorporating techniques from different fly-tying experts to develop his unique style.

Josh ties steelhead flies year-round, but also enjoys crafting flies for warm-water fish like smallmouth bass. He admits he doesn't enjoy tying dry flies unless they involve fun materials like foam. While he can tie Catskill-style flies, he prefers tying streamers and relishes the opportunity to learn new techniques, such as tying flat wings for striped bass or preparing flies for exotic fishing trips, which he finds particularly rewarding.

1:01:29 - He talks about the Wild Steelhead Coalition. Josh explains that the organization is mainly volunteer-run, with one small contractor. Despite its size, the coalition is highly effective in advocating for steelhead conservation, engaging in fundraising, public education, and advocacy efforts. Josh mentions a recent significant article in the Seattle Times that highlights their work, illustrating the coalition's impact despite its resources.

1:05:20 - We briefly talk about the status and future of the Snake River dams. Josh emphasizes the ongoing efforts to educate and build coalitions regarding the dams, expressing that everyone affected should be considered. He highlights the historical use of the dams for barge traffic and the declining export traffic on the river. He mentions recent news indicating salmon are passing above dam sites for the first time in a century, suggesting the potential benefits of dam removal on salmon populations.

1:08:23 - We ask Josh about that time when he worked at a radio after college.

1:13:08 - Josh shares that he used to play baseball as a pitcher.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/670

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/668

Presented By: Togens Fly Shop

If you've ever watched a fly fishing YouTube video, there's a good chance you've come across one produced by today's guest, Colin McKeown. Colin sadly passed away last month, and today I want to re-release an interview I did with him in 2019.

Colin was behind one of the largest fly fishing YouTube channels and inspired many in the industry.

Show Notes with Celebrating the Life of Colin Mckeown.

I want to take this moment to celebrate his life and encourage anyone impacted by his work to reach out to his family, The New Fly Fisher team, or even to me if you'd like to share how Colin inspired you or influenced your fishing journey.

In this episode, we dive into Colin's background, and how he started The New Fly Fisher, and we'll talk about Atlantic Salmon, Newfoundland, and his full story. This is from 2019, and as I mentioned, Colin passed away in September of 2024.

This is a rerelease of Episode 084. If you'd like to listen to the original episode, you can find it here.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/668

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/667

Presented By: Smitty's Fly Box, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Stonefly Nets, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Have you attended The Fly Fishing Show recently? Did you know that the Fly Fishing Show by the Furimskys is the largest fly fishing show in the world? And what is it about these shows that made them so successful in the past and today? Today you're going to find out what's new with the Fly Fishing Show so you know how to get more out of it if you attend this season.

Ben Furimsky, owner of The Fly Fishing Show takes us into a deep dive behind the scenes of the show. You're going to find out why his event planner job is one of the most stressful jobs in the world, next to a police and a firefighter. You're going to find out how a fly designer is similar to a chef. Ben is a fly designer and has been a guide for many years in the past. And we're going to let you know why you should be attending this year and why you should attend the full show and not for an hour. Plus, you're also going to find out about the consumer choice awards that they do at the show. Here we go!

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/667

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/666

Presented By: TroutRoutes, Waters West, Togens Fly Shop, Stonefly Nets

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

In this episode, Joe Rist and I will journey to fly fishing the Catskills, often hailed as the birthplace of American fly fishing. Join us as we uncover the rich history of this iconic region, explore the streams of the Beaver Kill and the Delaware branches, and discover why this area holds such a special place in the hearts of anglers.

With Joe's expert insights, you'll learn valuable tips on dry fly fishing and perfecting your casting techniques. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious novice, this episode promises to deepen your appreciation for fly fishing in one of the most storied landscapes in the U.S.

Episode Chapters with Joe Rist on Fly Fishing the Catskills

1:54 - We explore Joe's journey into fly fishing, sparked by his father's introduction with basic fishing gear. His passion solidified after catching his first brook trout in Maine and starting "Fish Camp" with friends. Joe transitioned to guiding professionally after retiring from the post office at 55. Following the passing of the shop's owner, Joe, with no retail experience but support from his family, successfully opened Trout Town Flies, now in its fifth year.

7:48 - We talk about the history of fly fishing in the Catskill region. Joe highlights its significance as "holy waters," noting contributions from pioneers like Theodore Gordon and George La Branche.

The Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum, covering 50 acres, showcases important figures and artifacts in fly fishing, including the resurgence of interest among younger people during the Covid pandemic.

11:12 - Joe offers advice on the best fishing times in the Catskills, recommending May for dry fly fishing due to ideal temperatures. He suggests novice-friendly rivers like Beaver Kill and Willow, while recommending the East and West Branches of the Delaware River for experienced anglers.

16:22 - For lodging and camping, Joe explains that while there is ample lodging, prime time (late April to early June) requires early reservations starting in December or January. The area has modest accommodations catering to fishermen, including notable places like Roscoe Motel, Riverside Cafe & Lodge, Red Rose, and Rockland House. For DIY camping, there are several state campgrounds, including Butternut Grove, Roscoe Campsite Park, and Peaceful Valley on the Delaware.

18:50 - Joe reveals that his shop makes 60-70% of its flies in-house. He highlights the significance of tying flies like cripples and emergers, as well as traditional Catskill flies. He also recounts creating the brown floating nymph (BFN) after noticing fish feeding on a specific insect on the West Branch of the Delaware.

25:29 - We get into the other flies he uses in the Catskills. Joe uses the gray fox, cahill, and red quill, effectively on their rivers. He provides a tip for modifying a red quill to mimic a rusty spinner.

28:35 - We focus on fishing the Beaver Kill. Joe notes that the Beaver Kill is more accessible for novice fly fishermen due to its high gradient, which helps correct casting errors. He also mentions that it is stocked with brown trout by the New York State.

32:06 - Our conversation shifts to fishing techniques, where Joe explains the importance of positioning above the fish and allowing the current to deliver the fly naturally. He mentions that in the east, anglers need to feed a lot of line—sometimes 70 to 80 feet—to achieve this, which can be challenging but necessary for successful fishing.

33:24 - Joe elaborates on fishing in the Delaware system, highlighting the commonality of catching large fish, including 21-27 inch fish. He explains the strength and resilience of these fish, particularly due to the cold, fast-moving waters. He also mentions migratory fish like shad and stripers that enter the Delaware system, and the presence of smallmouth bass in areas like the Beaver Kill. He notes that while there are various fish species, anglers predominantly seek large rainbows and browns.

38:05 - We talk about the fishing regulations and conditions in New York. Joe explains that the fishing season runs year-round, with specific rules: from April 1st to October 15th, regular fishing with size and catch limits is allowed; from October 16th to March 31st, it's catch and release only, with no live bait.

39:33 - Joe mentions temperature inversions in the Delaware River's tail waters, which affect fishing conditions. Milder winters have led to earlier fishing and hatches, with some species appearing sooner. He highlights that the tail waters offer consistent fishing opportunities, even in warmer months, and details the fishable waters: 17 miles on the west branch and variable conditions on the east branch.

42:03 - Joe describes their guiding and fishing techniques in the Catskills.

46:16 - For new anglers fishing the west branch of a large river, Joe emphasizes the importance of patience and observation when approaching the water. He advises beginners to look for foam lines, which indicate where food and fish might be. He also suggests breaking the river down into smaller sections, treating it first as a brook, then a stream, to make it less intimidating. He also highlights the need to adjust fishing techniques based on the time of day and hatches. Joe mentions that his shop can help plan trips and tailor them to the angler's schedule, whether it involves fishing in the morning or evening.

51:19 - We ask about his essential fishing gear. Joe highlights the use of fish-friendly ghost nets, wading staff for stability, quality wading boots for ankle support, and wading belt for safety. He also favors traditional vests for storage and versatility.

53:19 - As we approach late September and early October, he mentions the pre-spawn period when aggressive male trout favor streamers in orange or yellow. He mentions the essential flies during this period.

57:42 - Joe shares his travel bucket list, including a planned trip to Chile with his daughter to potentially represent a lodge there. He also expresses interest in fishing in Alaska and Montana's grayling, despite past trips to Colorado, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

59:18 - We discuss various boats and flotation devices for the Delaware River, including traditional boats, rafts, kayaks, and paddleboards. Joe warns against belly boats due to safety concerns and praises drift boats for their ability to navigate shallow waters.

1:00:38 - We ask him a couple of random questions on his music preference and go-to bar and restaurants in their area. For music, he likes the Allman Brothers, Coldplay, and Marshall Tucker.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/666

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/665

Presented By: Drifthook Fly Fishing, Angler's Coffee, Togiak River Lodge, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Jonathan Farmer, steelhead fly tying guru and author of Chasing Chrome: Tying Steelhead and Pacific Salmon Flies is here to take us into his world of Alaska and steelhead fishing.

We'll hear the stories behind flies like the Graboid, Led Zep Prawn, and Mini Me, plus why Jonathan's shifting to more natural patterns and how he picks his colors.

Jonathan ties some of the cleanest flies you'll ever see. He's been putting in 40 to 70 hours a week for over 10 years! Find out why so many people are looking him up and how his book is packed with tips to help you understand fly design.

Ready to pick up some tricks from a pro? Grab a notepad. You're going to want to jot these down!

Show Notes with Jonathan Farmer on Tying Steelhead and Pacific Salmon Flies. 11:17 – Fly fishing started for Jonathan when he was just 17 during a backcountry camp in Colorado. He started with conventional fishing and even joined tournaments in Texas. He worked on sport fishing yachts in South Florida before moving to Alaska, where he got into fly fishing.

12:14 – Jonathan shares that each season in Alaska offers unique opportunities. In spring, he loves stone fly fishing on the Kenai. Summer brings great dry fly action and swinging wet flies. By fall, fish target spawning sockeye.

Steelhead and Pacific Salmon Flies

Chasing Chrome: Tying Steelhead and Pacific Salmon Flies 21:20 – Jonathan talks about how he always wanted to write a fishing book. A few years ago, he started jotting down thoughts but put them aside. He teamed up with Mike at Mossy's Fly Shop for help with photos.

24:18 – The book features Jonathan's favorite steelhead and Pacific salmon flies, complete with step-by-step instructions. He says the book wouldn't be what it is without Marty Howard's input on its layout and design.

Marty also co-wrote the book Steelhead Fly Tying Art and Design with Dec Hogan. Check out our episode with Dec Hogan here! Steelhead and Pacific Salmon Flies

The Book's Creation 30:37 – Jonathan said the toughest part of writing his book was the editing process. He followed Marty's advice and printed three copies for friends to review.

Visit Jonathan's website or Instagram to grab your copy of his book. You can also get a signed copy, which comes with three flies from the book!

34:07 – The book covers fly-tying techniques and color choices. Jonathan mentioned that while some flies, like the Led Zep Prawn, are super fun to tie, they can be complex. He enjoys having a fly box just to admire the cool designs, even if he doesn't fish with all of them all the time.

Watch this video of Jonathan tying the Led Zep Prawn on Youtube:

The Challenge of Naming Flies 36:08 – There are 21 unique flies in the book that Jonathan created himself. He said that designing flies is probably easier than naming them. "The Graboid," was named by a friend without even knowing it.

Many of his flies have music-themed names, like "Sure Shot," inspired by the Beastie Boys, and "Crown Jewel," from Brother Ali. He even has a tube fly named "Zoomer," which was created during a Zoom course.

Finding the Perfect Steelhead Fly Proportions 52:29 – Jonathan has been tying flies for nearly a decade and puts in a serious amount of hours—sometimes 70 a week!

53:26 – We dive into how to balance materials when tying the perfect steelhead fly. It's all about finding the right proportions—not too sparse, but not overly bulky either. If a fly feels too full, he advises creating a channel to slim it down.

Jonathan reminds us that even experienced tiers sometimes end up with flies that are a bit bulkier than intended, and it's okay to make adjustments.

55:39 – Bulky flies don't move or breathe well in the water, which affects how they mimic bait. A fly that casts poorly or looks stiff in the water won't attract fish.

Jonathan uses a tank in his office to test the movement of his flies. If it doesn't swim or breathe right after a few hours, it's a no-go for him, and he tosses it.

The Mini-Me Graboid Jonathan shares the story of the Mini-Me fly. The Mini Me uses pine squirrel instead of rabbit, making it a smaller, more versatile fly. Jonathan uses it for steelhead, coho, and trout, especially in colors like black and red or black and blue.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/665

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/664

Presented By: Jackson Hole Fly Company, Angler's Coffee, TroutRoutes, Yellowstone Teton Territory

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Doug Myers, head man at Fly Fishing Veterans, is going to share his story of serving in the Air Force today before fighting fires for over 30 years. We're going to hear about some of his home waters in Oregon, Montana and Idaho, and we're going to hear which place he'd choose to settle down in forever if he had to pick just one. Plus, you're going to hear about Diamond Lake and where you can find 30-inch trout, including those illustrious tiger trout.

In today's episode, you are going to get an inside view into a relatively new veterans group and the fly tying and fly fishing expo that you're going to want to attend this year. We're going to find out what it takes to build a program to help veterans and how you can get involved to help some folks in your region or your part of the world. And we are going to talk fishing today, a little tiger trout and a little brown trout is going to round out today's episode.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/664

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/663

Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory, Smitty's Fly Box, FishHound Expeditions, Stonefly Nets

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the exciting world of UK fly fishing with none other than Chris Hague, an elite fly casting instructor and guide. In this episode, we explore the intricacies of fly fishing in the UK and Iceland, focusing on the majestic Atlantic salmon and the art of spey fishing.

Chris shares his expert insights on the best techniques, the top locations for catching wild rainbows, and the current state of salmon fishing in Scotland. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, this episode is packed with valuable tips and fascinating stories.

Episode Chapters with Chris Hague on UK Fly Fishing

4:19 - Chris' interest in fishing began at a young age, influenced by living close to various fishing spots and seeing salmon fishing on family holidays in Wales. His passion for fly fishing led him to focus exclusively on it. About 20 years ago, he began taking exams to become a fly fishing instructor, starting with entry-level certifications and advancing to more complex qualifications, including those from the Fly Fishers International (FFI).

10:14 - Chris describes the current situation of salmon runs in the UK and how it compares to other locations. The UK has experienced a decline in salmon populations with little improvement. He shares his recent experience fishing on the River Tweed in Scotland, where he caught a 13-pound fish but notes the effort required and the scarcity of fish. Chris contrasts this with Iceland's successful ranching policy, where larger fish are placed in holding pens and a select number of fish are used for breeding.

13:48 - Chris offers spey casting lessons, including single-handed and double-handed workshops, and guided fishing trips for species like trout and pike. He notes that traveling for salmon fishing requires a three-hour drive.

14:32 - He describes his typical two-handed setup for salmon fishing, including a 12'7" Mackenzie FX2 rod made of carbon and graphene, paired with a Lamson reel and a shooting head system. He emphasizes the versatility of multi-tip line setups, which allow anglers to adjust their fishing strategy quickly without carrying heavy gear. He prefers traveling light and uses this adaptable setup to efficiently cover different fishing conditions.

19:18 - Chris explains they are currently designing a new line for Mackenzie, and he describes the evolution of fishing lines, noting that Skagit and Scandi lines emerged around the same time. Skagit lines were short and designed for throwing heavy, large flies, while Scandi lines offered better presentation but were still relatively short. Chris mentions the development of hybrid lines that combine the benefits of both Skagit and Scandi lines, being short but offering better presentation.

21:07 - He mentions the Lamson Guru reel which he says complements the black, orange, and white Mackenzie rods. Mackenzie was founded by Scott Mackenzie, a world champion distance caster. The company has gained recognition for its innovative rods, especially those incorporating graphene, a material known for its strength and stability. This has led to the Mackenzie rods winning several awards in the UK.

Additionally, Chris mentions that Mackenzie is expanding their product line to include clothing and various types of rods, including those for tight line nymphing, saltwater fishing, and predator fishing, with new products expected in 2025.

23:49 - Chris recounts catching a 30-pound fish in the River Tweed using a 12ft 7wt rod while fishing from a boat. He mentions that the boat is maneuvered manually by gillies, who have impressive arm strength due to their constant rowing. Chris describes the fishing experience, noting the gentle take of the fish and how he adapted his technique by changing the depth and fly used.

26:35 - For those planning a fishing trip to the UK, Chris suggests that while the UK has fantastic rivers, access can be challenging due to many being members-only. He mentions that many anglers travel to places like Iceland and Norway for better fishing experiences. He prefers Iceland because he can reach rivers there faster than in Scotland and finds the fishing quality superior.

30:24 - We dig into the history and evolution of spey casting. He explains that spey casting originated in the 1880s with fishermen who needed a technique to cast in limited space and under various wind conditions.

34:41 - We talk about salmon fishing techniques, particularly in Iceland and the UK. Chris explains that early in the season, larger and more aggressive fish are more likely to chase bigger flies, whereas later in the season, fish become more cautious and prefer smaller flies. He shares insights on how to keep the fly in front of the fish longer by manipulating the line without creating too much slack.

40:37 - Chris shares his love for various fish species and recounts a memorable trip to the Maldives. There, they engaged in sight fishing on flats, targeting species like triggerfish and yellow-spotted trevally. He describes the excitement of seeing fish chase the bait and the necessity of quick casting adjustments.

43:58 - We talk about his fly casting workshop. Chris explains that his workshops, like the recent ones in Italy and Derbyshire, are full-day events focusing on various types of casting techniques. He begins with basic waterborne anchor casts such as snap casts and double spey casts, then progresses to more advanced airborne anchor casts like Touch and Go and Snake Roll casts.

46:31 - Chris describes the snake roll cast. He explains that this cast is designed for quick angle changes and is ideal when there's limited space behind the caster, such as when there are obstructions.

48:42 - He shares his plans for the rest of the year which includes a comprehensive salmon fishing course in Iceland, specifically at the East Ranga. The course, taking place just before prime fishing season, will cover various aspects of salmon fishing, including casting workshops, fly selection, and fishing strategies.

54:32 - We briefly talk about the fishing conditions and fish populations in Iceland, comparing them to those in other regions. Chris says that while there were fewer fish this year, the numbers remain relatively constant due to effective management policies. We also discuss the impact of hatcheries.

57:22 - We get into the gear for salmon fishing. Chris explains that while they do use nets, he personally doesn't carry one, relying instead on nearby gillies to help with netting fish and emphasizing the importance of fish care and keeping the fish in the water. He prefers to travel light, carrying minimal gear such as tippet, nippers, a tape measure, and a small box of flies and hooks. He avoids using a vest or pack, instead storing everything in his waders.

59:42 - Chris gives an advice for those who are planning a fishing trip to Iceland. He suggests first-timers to join organized trips led by experienced guides to avoid common pitfalls such as bringing the wrong gear. He emphasizes the importance of proper preparation, including selecting the right clothing and equipment, and knowing the best fishing spots.

1:01:26 - Chris currently uses a prototype line. He mentions that Mackenzie is developing a new, simplified multi-tip fly line system designed to be easy to use. This system will include a floating body and a sinking body, allowing anglers to control the depth and speed of their fly. The simplified system aims to avoid the confusion associated with blended lines.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/663

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/662

Presented By: Stonefly Nets, TroutRoutes, Smitty's Fly Box

In today's Littoral Zone episode, Phil chats with Jason Randall about what trout see and why it matters.

Jason has written four books, including his famous trout trilogy, which dives deep into how trout behave in their environment. While Jason's passion lies in rivers and streams, the research and knowledge he's amassed is equally beneficial to stillwater fly fishers.

]His understanding of how trout see is crucial information for all fly fishers, guiding both our pattern selection and presentation techniques, information that helps us consistently make the correct pattern and presentation choice.

Show Notes with Jason Randall on What Trout See and Why it Matters.

2:20 - Jason Randall graduated as a veterinarian and did postgraduate work in fish health and medicine. Although he considered a career in fisheries, he ultimately chose private practice.

4:16 - Jason started fly fishing around 40 years ago but got frustrated early on due to a lack of guidance. He took a break, then later tried again this time with the help of great mentors.

Jason says his passion really started during a trip to Colorado. A guide introduced him to a caddis hatch that transformed the river into a feeding frenzy of trout. Watching the stream come alive with caddis and rising fish was a game-changer for Jason.

08:21 - Jason says he was lucky to have some amazing mentors like George Kustin who guided him in fly fishing and taught him about wet flies and soft tackles. Lefty Kreh took Jason under his wing.

09:31 - Jason also works with Temple Fork Outfitters on rod design and prototype testing. This year, they introduced a new European Nymphing Rod called the Elevare, which won Best New Rod at ICAST 2024.

Books by Jason Randall

13:00 - Jason's trout fishing trilogy started in 2012 with Jay Nichols from Stackpole Books. The trilogy covers:

Feeding Time: A Fly Fisher's Guide to What, When and Where Trout Eat Trout Sense: A Fly Fisher's Guide to What Trout See, Hear, and Smell Moving Water: A Fly Fisher's Guide to Currents

Jason also wrote Nymph Masters, a collaborative effort featuring tips from top nymph anglers like Gary Borger and Lefty Kreh.

Trout Sense

17:00 - Trout begins life as prey, eating small organisms like plankton. As they grow, they become predators, feeding on insects, crustaceans, and even small fish or mammals.

They retain the wide-set eyes of prey for spotting threats and the sharp focus of predators for hunting. This makes them tricky to catch.

21:10 - Jason explains how light works differently underwater, which affects how trout see. Refraction, or the bending of light when it moves from air to water, can also trick us into thinking we're casting right over a fish, but we could be a few feet off.

26:08 - Jason dives into how color fades underwater, starting with red, and how different colors are absorbed at various depths. Fluorescent colors like chartreuse stand out the most and create a strong contrast, which trout notice.

29:18 - Unlike humans, a trout's pupils don't adjust to light, and their eyes have a football-like shape that lets them see clearly both in front and to the side.

Search Image and How Trout Decide to Eat

42:11 - Trout uses a "search image" to figure out what's food and what's not. They focus on four things: size, shape (profile), movement, and color.

If a fish keeps ignoring your fly from far away, it's probably the size or shape that's off. But if they come close, and then turn away, Jason says that it may be a color-based refusal.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/662