Trout Wrangler Podcast

Get a FREE month of TroutRoutes Pro ⁠https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠ Get FREE shipping with Cordina Eyewear Use code: RYS_FLIESCLT ⁠https://cordinaeyewear.com/RYS_FLIESCLT⁠ On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Tom Mitzlaff from Mitzi Skiff and Inshore Boatworks to talk about his journey in the boat industry and the launch of his newest technical skiff, the Versa 18. Tom shares how he got his start building boats, the lessons he's learned throughout his career, and what inspired him to develop the Versa 18. We dive into the design philosophy behind the boat, what separates it from other technical skiffs on the market, and the features that make it a versatile platform for anglers chasing fish in shallow water. We also discuss the evolution of both Mitzi Skiff and Inshore Boatworks, the challenges of designing and building boats in today's market, and what goes into balancing performance, fishability, comfort, and craftsmanship. Along the way, Tom shares stories from his time in the marine industry, where he sees technical skiff design heading in the future, and what's next for both Inshore Boatworks and the Versa lineup. We wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Spotify playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. If you're passionate about technical skiffs, flats fishing, boat design, and the future of inshore fishing, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with fly angler and content creator Pete Kaple, the voice behind Skiff Wanderer, to talk about storytelling, travel, and life built around chasing fish. Pete shares how he first got into fly fishing and the moments and fisheries that truly hooked him on the sport. We dive into his approach to creating content, what makes a fishing story resonate beyond just catching fish, and how he's built a unique voice in the fly-fishing space. We also talk about the places that have stood out most throughout his travels, bucket-list destinations still on his radar, and the gear he relies on day-to-day while exploring new water. A big part of the conversation focuses on conservation and responsibility — from common mistakes anglers make in shallow water fisheries to how we can all explore new places without putting unnecessary pressure on fragile ecosystems. We also get into how fishing has shaped Pete's mindset and lifestyle, what keeps him motivated to keep creating, and what's next for Skiff Wanderer moving forward. We wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Spotify playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. If you're into fly fishing travel, storytelling, and the lifestyle side of the sport, this is an episode you won't want to miss. FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO⁠ https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠⁠ Free Shipping With Cordina Eyewear⁠ https://cordinaeyewear.com/RYS_FLIESCLT⁠

In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Evan from SweetWater Brewing Company to talk about the intersection of craft beer, outdoor culture, and conservation. Evan gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how SweetWater got started and how the brand built such a strong connection to the outdoors — especially within the fishing and fly-fishing communities. We dive into how water, conservation, and time outside became core pillars of the company's identity. We also get into the story behind SweetWater 420 Fest, including how the idea originally came about, what makes it different from other music festivals, and how it has grown into one of the most recognizable events in the outdoor and music space. Along the way, we talk about the role conservation plays at SweetWater, the environmental initiatives they support, and why protecting clean water is so important to the brand. We also get into why so many anglers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts connect with SweetWater, along with a look at beers inspired by the outdoors. We wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Spotify playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. If you're into fly fishing, outdoor culture, and good beer, this is a fun one you won't want to miss. FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO ⁠https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠⁠ Free Shipping With Cordina Eyewear ⁠https://cordinaeyewear.com/RYS_FLIESCLT

In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with photographer and fly angler Mac Elliot to talk about building a career at the intersection of fly fishing and visual storytelling. Mac shares how growing up on the Texas coast helped shape his connection to the outdoors and ultimately influenced both his fishing and photography. We dive into how photography evolved from a hobby into a full-time pursuit, along with the early inspirations that helped guide his creative direction. We also get into the technical side of things — how different environments impact the way he shoots, his go-to gear and lenses for capturing fly fishing, and the challenges that come with photographing fast-moving, unpredictable moments, especially in saltwater environments. Mac talks about how fly fishing became a central theme in his work, the species he loves targeting and photographing the most, and what draws him to saltwater over freshwater. We also discuss working with outdoor brands while staying authentic, advice for creatives looking to break into the space, and some of the standout projects he's been a part of along the way. To wrap things up, we look ahead at what's next for Mac, followed by five songs for the Trout Tunes Spotify playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. If you're into fly fishing, photography, and the creative side of the outdoors, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Let's get into it. FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠

In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Julia Parrish to talk about one of the most exciting events growing in the saltwater fly fishing world — the MW Lady Red Tournament. Julia shares how she first got started in fishing and the journey that eventually led her to creating a tournament specifically designed to bring more women into the competitive side of the sport. We dive into the inspiration behind launching the MW Lady Red Tournament, the original mission behind the event, and how that vision has grown as more anglers and supporters have joined the community. Julia also explains what makes the tournament unique compared to traditional inshore and redfish competitions. We talk about the importance of creating opportunities for women in fly fishing, how the tournament works for anglers who may be hearing about it for the first time, and what participants can expect when they show up on tournament day. Julia also breaks down how conservation plays a role in the event, and what the future looks like for the MW Lady Red Tournament as it continues to grow. We wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Spotify playlist, along with final thanks and plugs. If you're interested in redfish, fly fishing tournaments, and the growing role of women in the sport, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Red Spot Round Up Cards https://www.afterworkfishclub.com/products/red-spot-round-up-fly-division https://www.afterworkfishclub.com/products/pre-sale-red-spot-round-up-guide-division https://www.afterworkfishclub.com/products/pre-sale-red-spot-round-up-spin-division FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠

In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with outdoor writer and fly-fishing media personality Tripp Nazziola to talk about storytelling in the fly-fishing world and how media is shaping the sport today. Tripp shares where his passion for fishing and the outdoors first began, and how that early love for the water eventually led him into the world of outdoor media. We dive into his path to working with Flylords, one of the most recognizable platforms in the modern fly-fishing industry. We also talk about what Flylords actually does within the sport, how the platform has grown, and what Tripp's day-to-day role looks like creating content, telling stories, and highlighting anglers and fisheries around the world. Along the way, Tripp reflects on how working in fly-fishing media has changed his perspective on the sport and shares one of his favorite pieces he's written for Flylords. Of course, we also get into the fishing itself — including the species he loves chasing the most and what keeps him coming back to the water. We wrap things up by talking about what's next for Tripp and Flylords heading into 2026 and beyond, before finishing with five songs for the Trout Tunes Spotify playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. If you're interested in the storytelling, media, and culture side of fly fishing, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Red Spot Round Up Cards https://www.afterworkfishclub.com/products/red-spot-round-up-fly-division https://www.afterworkfishclub.com/products/pre-sale-red-spot-round-up-guide-division https://www.afterworkfishclub.com/products/pre-sale-red-spot-round-up-spin-division FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠

Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2 Ep.79: The Soul Fly Story With Kyle Schaefer In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Kyle to talk all things saltwater fly fishing, travel, and building a world-class boutique fishing experience in the Bahamas. We dive into the inspiration behind creating a high-end fly-fishing destination on Great Harbour Cay in the Berry Islands, focusing on a quality-over-quantity approach that delivers large bonefish, legit permit opportunities, and unforgettable days on the flats. Kyle breaks down what makes the fishery so special, how their connection to the local community enhances the lodge experience, and what anglers can expect both on and off the water — from elite fishing to top-tier food, comfort, and hospitality. We also get into year-round vs. seasonal fishing opportunities, wading the flats vs. fishing from a skiff, the future of the lodge, and their upcoming Charleston festival, including what to expect and why it's shaping up to be a must-attend event. Plus, we talk about celebrity and athlete guests, swap some great lodge stories, and wrap things up with 5 songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist, along with final thanks and plugs. If you've ever dreamed about a Bahamas fly fishing trip, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and trip-planning gold. 🎣 Let's get into it! FREE MONTH OF TROUT ROUTES PRO https://troutroutes.onelink.me/NvfJ/6au6z3i3⁠

In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I'm recapping an awesome weekend in Charleston, SC at Cast & Drafts — one of the coolest fly fishing and craft beer spots around. From cold beers and great conversations to meeting new faces in the fly fishing community, this trip was one for the books. I break down the highlights from the weekend, the people I met, and why events like this are so important for growing the sport and building community. After the recap, I jump into listener-submitted questions, covering a wide range of fly fishing topics including tactics, gear, trip planning, finding new water, fly selection, and more. This Q&A segment brings some great discussion and practical advice for anglers of all experience levels. Whether you're looking for fishing tips, community updates, or just some good fly fishing storytelling, this episode has something for you.