Michigan Fly Fishing for Smallies and Pike

Host Christian Bacasa talks river-to-saltwater fly fishing with Rick Passek, an angler who built his skills on stillwater and rivers before making the jump to saltwater fishing in Mexico. Rick walks through what actually changes in the transition — reading different currents, adjusting casting for wind and structure, and the gear swaps that make the switch smoother. If you're a river angler curious about saltwater, this is the practical rundown of what to expect. Connect with the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast: Shop: https://ffipodcast.com/collections/all (use code INSIDER10 for 10% off orders $50+) Guides & Lodges: https://ffipodcast.com/pages/guides-and-lodges Book a Trip (Frontiers): https://ffipodcast.com/pages/frontier-travel-fly-fishing-insider-podcast Newsletter: https://ffipodcast.com/ Follow: Instagram @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Facebook @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | TikTok @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Pinterest @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | YouTube @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | LinkedIn Fly Fishing Insider Podcast Dupe A Fish: @dupeafish on Instagram Tight lines, everyone!

Conservationist John Stallone joins host Christian Bacasa to talk about the often-overlooked role hunters and anglers play in wildlife preservation — funding habitat work, tracking population health, and advocating for public land access. John introduces How for Wildlife, an organization built to give sportsmen and women practical tools for getting involved beyond just buying a license. A good listen for anyone who wants their time on the water to add up to more than a good day of fishing.   Connect with the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast:   Shop: https://ffipodcast.com/collections/all (use code INSIDER10 for 10% off orders $50+)   Guides & Lodges: https://ffipodcast.com/pages/guides-and-lodges   Book a Trip (Frontiers): https://ffipodcast.com/pages/frontier-travel-fly-fishing-insider-podcast   Newsletter: https://ffipodcast.com/   Follow: Instagram https://instagram.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Facebook https://facebook.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Pinterest https://pinterest.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | YouTube https://youtube.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyfishinginsiderpodcast   Tight lines, everyone!

Kip Vieth of Wildwood Float Trips joins host Christian Bacasa to break down smallmouth bass fishing on the Mississippi River. Kip covers how water temperature shifts fish behavior through the season, which fly patterns produce on the Mississippi specifically, and the techniques he relies on as a full-time guide in the area. Whether you're new to river smallmouth or refining your approach, Kip's field-tested insights apply directly to the water.   Connect with the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast:   Shop: https://ffipodcast.com/collections/all (use code INSIDER10 for 10% off orders $50+)   Guides & Lodges: https://ffipodcast.com/pages/guides-and-lodges   Book a Trip (Frontiers): https://ffipodcast.com/pages/frontier-travel-fly-fishing-insider-podcast   Newsletter: https://ffipodcast.com/   Follow: Instagram https://instagram.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Facebook https://facebook.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Pinterest https://pinterest.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | YouTube https://youtube.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyfishinginsiderpodcast   Tight lines, everyone!

James Johnson joins host Christian Bacasa to talk flats fishing in Belize — specifically the precision and visual skills required to target bonefish, tarpon, and permit. James breaks down how to spot fish in skinny water, the casting accuracy the flats demand, and what separates a good flats angler from a frustrated one. Essential listening before any saltwater flats trip.   Connect with the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast:   Shop: https://ffipodcast.com/collections/all (use code INSIDER10 for 10% off orders $50+)   Guides & Lodges: https://ffipodcast.com/pages/guides-and-lodges   Book a Trip (Frontiers): https://ffipodcast.com/pages/frontier-travel-fly-fishing-insider-podcast   Newsletter: https://ffipodcast.com/   Follow: Instagram https://instagram.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Facebook https://facebook.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Pinterest https://pinterest.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | YouTube https://youtube.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyfishinginsiderpodcast   Tight lines, everyone!

Tad Murdock joins host Christian Bacasa with an ambitious goal: catching all 50 recognized salmonid species on the fly. Eight years into fly fishing after growing up bass fishing, Tad has landed around 40 of the 50 so far, and shares what the hunt has taught him about species identification, regional travel planning, and adapting technique across wildly different water types. A must-listen for any angler chasing a life-list goal of their own.   Connect with the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast:   Shop: https://ffipodcast.com/collections/all (use code INSIDER10 for 10% off orders $50+)   Guides & Lodges: https://ffipodcast.com/pages/guides-and-lodges   Book a Trip (Frontiers): https://ffipodcast.com/pages/frontier-travel-fly-fishing-insider-podcast   Newsletter: https://ffipodcast.com/   Follow: Instagram https://instagram.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Facebook https://facebook.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Pinterest https://pinterest.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | YouTube https://youtube.com/flyfishinginsiderpodcast | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/flyfishinginsiderpodcast   Tight lines, everyone!

Go to www.flyfishfinder.com to explore the latest app available, which is fly fishing exclusive and will truly improve your outings. In this episode, host Christian Bacasa interviews Joel Stoehr about his fly fishing journey and how he keeps his passion alive through new endeavors. Joel shares his background growing up in the Catskills and transitioning from trout fishing to saltwater fishing in New York City. He discusses the challenges and excitement of sight fishing for redfish in Louisiana and tarpon in Key West. Joel emphasizes the importance of trying new fishing experiences to keep the passion for fly fishing alive. In this conversation, Joel Stoehr and Christian Bacasa discuss various aspects of fishing, including different approaches to fishing, learning and adapting to different fishing scenarios, the value of experience and incremental learning, the benefits of targeting different species, reflecting on fishing trips and planning for the next, using photography and sketching as memory triggers, developing artistic skills and techniques, the importance of capturing memories in art, the significance of the double haul technique, the challenge of shooting line in saltwater fishing, the constant learning and enjoyment of fishing, and the value of ugly casts and the struggle in fishing.   Takeaways Transitioning from trout fishing to saltwater fishing can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Sight fishing for redfish and tarpon offers a different level of excitement and requires precise casting. Trying new fishing endeavors, such as fishing in different locations or targeting different species, can help keep the passion for fly fishing alive. Each fishing experience, whether it's trout fishing, saltwater fishing, or sight fishing, offers its own unique challenges and rewards. Different fishing scenarios require different approaches and techniques. Experience and incremental learning are valuable in improving fishing skills. Targeting different species can enhance fishing skills and knowledge. Reflecting on fishing trips and planning for the next one can keep the passion for fishing alive. Using photography and sketching can help capture and preserve fishing memories. Developing artistic skills can enhance the fishing experience. The double haul technique is important in saltwater fishing. Shooting line accurately is a challenge in saltwater fishing. The constant learning and enjoyment of fishing come from the struggle and the process. Ugly casts can still catch fish and should not discourage anglers. Fly Fishing Insider Blog is taking off and I'm putting out tons of content weekly.  Join the Loyalty Club for updates and all kinds of discounts! www.ffipodcast.com The Fly Fisherman's Channel has become my favorite place lately. I work with them, so the podcast is on there now and without ads. What I like is that it is the most extensive collection of fly fishing-specific content on the web! Subscribe with my link and get 10% off your subscription by using code: FFIP10SPRING23 https://bit.ly/10PtsOffFlyFishermansChannel If you like the Fly Fisherman's Channel, it really helps cover the show's overhead. Anyone you share that link with can help. Thanks!!! A lot of you have been asking what I'm using these days. Specifically, I use products from these companies because they have been shown to last and be worth the money. They tend to last long and have good functionality. I'll try to add them to the podcasts from now on and keep the list up to date. Additionally, I'll be doing more reviews, but taking a look now is worthwhile. Grundéns Waders - https://bit.ly/grundénswaders  Simms Fishing - Packs, Boots, Accessories, Waders - https://bit.ly/simmsfishingmain Patagonia - Clothing, Shells, Packs - https://bit.ly/patagoniamainpage Gerber Gear - Fishing Tools, Nipper, Pliers - https://bit.ly/gerbergearfishing BD - Clothing, Jackets, Headlamps - https://bit.ly/bdmainpage Gryal 24 Oz Bottle - Water Purification - https://bit.ly/gryalwaterpurification

Go to www.flyfishfinder.com to explore the latest app available, which is fly fishing exclusive and will truly improve your outings. Dan Hoffman, a former fishing guide and chief of police, shares his journey from guiding to a potential future career. He wrote a book called 'An Alaska Fly Fisher's Odyssey' that explores the relationship between fly fishing and various aspects of life. Dan emphasizes the importance of recognizing and leveraging the transferable skills and attributes gained from being a guide. He advises guides to identify their strengths, seek continuing education, and reach out to former clients for mentorship. Dan also discusses the challenges of navigating the social media landscape and the incredible fishing opportunities in the Bristol Bay area of Alaska. In this conversation, Daniel Hoffman and Christian Bacasa discuss fishing in Alaska, specifically in the Cuulik River and other remote locations. They talk about the abundance of brown bears in certain areas, the incredible fishing opportunities during the egg drop season, and the beauty of the scenery. They also provide tips for planning a fishing trip to Alaska, including different tiers of fishing experiences, budgeting strategies, and the importance of researching the seasonality of the drainages. Overall, they emphasize the unique and unforgettable experience of fishing in Alaska.   Takeaways Recognize and leverage the transferable skills and attributes gained from being a fishing guide. Identify your strengths and seek continuing education to set yourself apart in a new career. Reach out to former clients for mentorship and guidance during a career transition. Navigate the social media landscape strategically, focusing on platforms that align with your target audience. Explore the incredible fishing opportunities in the Bristol Bay area of Alaska. Alaska offers incredible fishing opportunities, with abundant wildlife and beautiful scenery. There are different tiers of fishing experiences in Alaska, ranging from do-it-yourself trips to guided fly-out lodges. Research the seasonality of the drainages to ensure you visit during the best time for your target species. Budgeting and saving money in advance can help make an Alaska fishing trip more affordable. Take advantage of online resources, podcasts, and local shops to gather information and plan your trip. Fly Fishing Insider Blog is taking off and I'm putting out tons of content weekly.  Join the Loyalty Club for updates and all kinds of discounts! www.ffipodcast.com The Fly Fisherman's Channel has become my favorite place lately. I work with them, so the podcast is on there now and without ads. What I like is that it is the most extensive collection of fly fishing-specific content on the web! Subscribe with my link and get 10% off your subscription by using code: FFIP10SPRING23 https://bit.ly/10PtsOffFlyFishermansChannel If you like the Fly Fisherman's Channel, it really helps cover the show's overhead. Anyone you share that link with can help. Thanks!!! A lot of you have been asking what I'm using these days. Specifically, I use products from these companies because they have been shown to last and be worth the money. They tend to last long and have good functionality. I'll try to add them to the podcasts from now on and keep the list up to date. Additionally, I'll be doing more reviews, but taking a look now is worthwhile. Grundéns Waders - https://bit.ly/grundénswaders  Simms Fishing - Packs, Boots, Accessories, Waders - https://bit.ly/simmsfishingmain Patagonia - Clothing, Shells, Packs - https://bit.ly/patagoniamainpage Gerber Gear - Fishing Tools, Nipper, Pliers - https://bit.ly/gerbergearfishing BD - Clothing, Jackets, Headlamps - https://bit.ly/bdmainpage Gryal 24 Oz Bottle - Water Purification - https://bit.ly/gryalwaterpurification

Go to www.flyfishfinder.com to explore the latest app available that is fly fishing exclusive and will truly improve your outings.   In this episode of the Fly Fishing Insider podcast, host Christian Bacasa interviews Dominic Petruzzi about fishing for predator fish in Pennsylvania, particularly muskie. They discuss the changes in muskie fishing in Pennsylvania over the years and the efforts to improve the muskie population. Dominic shares his experiences and tips for fishing muskie in moving water, emphasizing the importance of understanding muskie behavior and targeting their preferred locations. He also discusses his approach to designing predator flies, focusing on movement and profile. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for anglers interested in pursuing muskie in Pennsylvania. In this conversation, Dominic Petruzzi discusses various aspects of fly fishing for musky. He talks about the importance of gear baits and how to emulate their flash profile in flies. He also emphasizes the significance of triggering fish on multiple levels and checking off boxes to increase angler success. Dominic shares his techniques for reducing weight in flies and utilizing natural materials like bucktail. He explains how flash can be used to attract musky and discusses the importance of silhouette and size as triggers. Dominic also highlights the importance of creating ambush opportunities and shares his experience using the Norvise vise for fly tying. Lastly, he emphasizes the importance of thread control in fly tying.   Takeaways Emulate the flash profile of gear baits in flies to attract musky. Trigger fish on multiple levels by checking off various factors like moon phase, water quality, and fly design. Reduce weight in flies by using natural materials like bucktail. Utilize flash in fly designs to create different light reflections and attract fish. Consider silhouette and size as important triggers for predator fish. Create ambush opportunities by presenting flies in areas with varying light conditions. Use the Norvise vise for efficient and accurate fly tying. Maintain good thread control and tension for better fly tying results. Fly Fishing Insider Blog is taking off and I'm putting out tons of content weekly.  Join the Loyalty Club for updates and all kinds of discounts! www.ffipodcast.com The Fly Fisherman's Channel has become my favorite place lately. I work with them, so the podcast is on there now and without ads. What I like is that it is the most extensive collection of fly fishing-specific content on the web! Subscribe with my link and get 10% off your subscription by using code: FFIP10SPRING23 https://bit.ly/10PtsOffFlyFishermansChannel If you like the Fly Fisherman's Channel, it really helps cover the show's overhead. Anyone you share that link with can help. Thanks!!! A lot of you have been asking what I'm using these days. Specifically, I use products from these companies because they have been shown to last and be worth the money. They tend to last long and have good functionality. I'll try to add them to the podcasts from now on and keep the list up to date. Additionally, I'll be doing more reviews, but taking a look now is worthwhile. Grundéns Waders - https://bit.ly/grundénswaders  Simms Fishing - Packs, Boots, Accessories, Waders - https://bit.ly/simmsfishingmain Patagonia - Clothing, Shells, Packs - https://bit.ly/patagoniamainpage Gerber Gear - Fishing Tools, Nipper, Pliers - https://bit.ly/gerbergearfishing BD - Clothing, Jackets, Headlamps - https://bit.ly/bdmainpage Gryal 24 Oz Bottle - Water Purification - https://bit.ly/gryalwaterpurification

Go to www.flyfishfinder.com to explore the latest app available, which is fly fishing exclusive and will truly improve your outings. In this episode, Christian Bacasa interviews Brett Lowry, the founder of Trout Boat Cap'n. They discuss the importance of seat height in rowing and the benefits of using the Trout Boat Cap'n seat. Brett shares his experience of starting the company and how it has improved the comfort and efficiency of rowing. They also talk about fishing in the Illinois River and striper fishing in the tailwaters. Finally, they discuss smallmouth fishing in the upper Illinois River and the techniques used for a successful fishing trip. In this conversation, Brett Lowry discusses his preferred fishing techniques, including using frogs and poppers for easy casting and engagement. He also highlights the gratification of visual fishing and the sense of accomplishment it brings. Brett then shares insights into the sand bass season in Oklahoma and the differences between sand bass, hybrid, and striper. He explains the excitement of fishing for sand bass and the techniques involved. Additionally, Brett mentions other rivers in Oklahoma and the recreational opportunities they offer. Finally, he provides tips for fly fishing, including customizing your boat, maintaining a positive attitude, and embracing a love of learning. Takeaways The Trout Boat Cap'n seat improves comfort and efficiency in rowing by raising the seat height. A higher seat position allows for better visibility and command of the boat. The Trout Boat Cap'n seat increases strength and power in rowing strokes. Fishing in the Illinois River and its tailwaters offers opportunities for striper fishing and smallmouth fishing. Using frogs and poppers can be an effective and engaging fishing technique, especially for beginners. Visual fishing, such as using poppers or dry flies, can provide a sense of accomplishment and gratification. Sand bass season in Oklahoma offers exciting fishing opportunities, with the chance to catch large numbers of fish. Understanding the differences between sand bass, hybrid, and striper can help anglers target specific species more effectively. Exploring different rivers in Oklahoma can lead to diverse fishing experiences. Customizing your boat can enhance your fishing experience and make it more comfortable. Maintaining a positive attitude and having realistic expectations can contribute to a successful fishing trip. Embracing a love of learning and being open to new techniques and knowledge can improve fishing skills and enjoyment. Fly Fishing Insider Blog is taking off and I'm putting out tons of content weekly.  Join the Loyalty Club for updates and all kinds of discounts! www.ffipodcast.com The Fly Fisherman's Channel has become my favorite place lately. I work with them, so the podcast is on there now and without ads. What I like is that it is the most extensive collection of fly fishing-specific content on the web! Subscribe with my link and get 10% off your subscription by using code: FFIP10SPRING23 https://bit.ly/10PtsOffFlyFishermansChannel If you like the Fly Fisherman's Channel, it really helps cover the show's overhead. Anyone you share that link with can help. Thanks!!! A lot of you have been asking what I'm using these days. Specifically, I use products from these companies because they have been shown to last and be worth the money. They tend to last long and have good functionality. I'll try to add them to the podcasts from now on and keep the list up to date. Additionally, I'll be doing more reviews, but taking a look now is worthwhile. Grundéns Waders - https://bit.ly/grundénswaders  Simms Fishing - Packs, Boots, Accessories, Waders - https://bit.ly/simmsfishingmain Patagonia - Clothing, Shells, Packs - https://bit.ly/patagoniamainpage Gerber Gear - Fishing Tools, Nipper, Pliers - https://bit.ly/gerbergearfishing BD - Clothing, Jackets, Headlamps - https://bit.ly/bdmainpage Gryal 24 Oz Bottle - Water Purification - https://bit.ly/gryalwaterpurification

Mike Komara, a competitive fisherman, discusses his experience in competitive fishing and the different levels of competition. He explains that the average competition consists of about 12 anglers, with regional competitions being smaller and interregional competitions being larger. The nationals, which are the biggest and most intense competition, consist of about 48 anglers. Mike also shares his preference for fishing with a single fly, as it allows for more control and reduces the chance of tangles. He discusses the importance of adjusting the casting angle to change the sink rate and depth of the fly. Mike emphasizes the significance of walking the beat before a session to understand the water and the fish's behavior. He also mentions the importance of adapting to changing conditions during a competition. In this conversation, Mike Komara shares his insights and tactics for fly fishing. He discusses the importance of adjusting fly patterns and presentation techniques to entice fish. He emphasizes the need to experiment with different flies, sizes, and levels in the water column to find what works. Mike also highlights the effectiveness of jig streamers and the importance of maintaining contact with the fly. He keeps his fly selection simple and focuses on fishing close to structure for better chances of success. Mike shares his preferred leader setup and emphasizes the importance of confidence in fly selection. Takeaways Competitive fishing consists of different levels of competition, with regional competitions being smaller and interregional competitions being larger. The nationals are the biggest and most intense competition, with about 48 anglers. Fishing with a single fly allows for more control and reduces the chance of tangles. Adjusting the casting angle can change the sink rate and depth of the fly. Walking the beat before a session is important to understand the water and the fish's behavior. Adapting to changing conditions during a competition is crucial for success. Adjust fly patterns and presentation techniques to entice fish. Experiment with different flies, sizes, and levels in the water column. Jig streamers can be highly effective, and maintaining contact with the fly is crucial. Keep fly selection simple and focus on fishing close to structure. Confidence in fly selection is key to success. Fly Fishing Insider Blog is taking off and I'm putting out tons of content weekly. Join the Loyalty Club for updates and all kinds of discounts! www.ffipodcast.com Connect with the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast: Shop: https://ffipodcast.com/collections/all (use code INSIDER10 for 10% off orders $50+) Guides & Lodges: https://ffipodcast.com/pages/guides-and-lodges Book a Trip (Frontiers): https://ffipodcast.com/pages/frontier-travel-fly-fishing-insider-podcast Newsletter: https://ffipodcast.com/ Follow: Instagram @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Facebook @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | TikTok @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | Pinterest @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | YouTube @flyfishinginsiderpodcast | LinkedIn Fly Fishing Insider Podcast Dupe A Fish: @dupeafish on Instagram Tight lines, everyone!