The MEND Fly Fishing Podcast

On this episode, we discuss developing a two-pronged approach switching between streamers and nymphs. When, why, and how. I share a short update about my Moose hunt that is ongoing, and fishing here on the Yakima River.

Casual group podcast. Joe Rotter and Jason Harwood host Chris Waddle to discuss tightline nymphing, competitive angling, and the learning curve from backyard casting to mini-comps. They share personal fishing stories, gear choices, and why tightline techniques reveal more trout in close, pressured water. Key takeaways include reading water and beats, changing depth before flies, maintaining contact with your nymphs, practical competition rules and strategies, and tips to get over the beginner hump with tightline nymphing.

Joe Rotter ties a simple, fast nymph and walks through why he ties flies on short notice—how pattern choice supports fishing style, materials to use, and keeping flies light and effective. He also explains how tying your own flies increases focus and success on the water. The episode also covers fishing techniques that produced recent success: mono yarn tightline indicators for technical currents, jigging chartreuse mop flies and leech-style patterns in slow edges, short-line evening nymph rigs, and practical takeaways from guided trips and outings. Tight Line Indicator Rig:  https://youtu.be/gjWVUndhwTQ?si=7aj9v6XDoe1ow0G5  

Joe Rotter goes solo and covers a week of fishing highlights: a long-running blue-winged olive hatch, precise small-dry fly tactics with ultralight rods, and tips for slow hook sets. He also talks about jig streamers, a strong worm bite after rain, new Gray Watermaster Kodiaks at Red's, and the value of vintage and modern Sage rods. Listeners get practical gear notes (sink-tip and single-fly rigs, New Zealand indicators), tying tips for squirmy worms, and advice for spotting and targeting pods of feeding fish during hatches.

Joe and Eric trade hunting stories, river reports and tactics after a big cold snap brought bigger trout and lively blue-winged olive hatches. They cover stonefly and streamer action, tightline nymphing with Protagon-style flies, and the value of a two-rod system for opportunistic dry-fly eating fish. Plus: upcoming events (women's rendezvous and Fly Fishing Film Tour), practical gear tips on gloves and layering, and quick advice on picking flies in person for the best results. Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Joe and Shop Manager Bob deliver short, practical fall fishing advice for DIY anglers: observe the river and other fishermen, favor small BWO patterns (sizes 18–20), use yarn indicators and shorter nymph rigs, and avoid over-deep setups. Pre-rig rods and keep flies, tippet and tools organized so you can fish efficiently. The episode also shares shuttle‑peeping and wade vs. float tips, steelhead trip anecdotes, the value of humility and experimentation, and recommends soft hackles and focused strategies for October low-water fishing.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Joe Rotter hosts a solo episode unpacking a recent guided day on the low, clear Yakima River and previewing the October caddis hatch. He talks through the morning bite, how fish move deeper during the day, and why timing and stealth matter in fall trout fishing. Practical takeaways include testing flies on lighter tippet (6X) to check effectiveness, running a New Zealand‑style yarn indicator and the indicator tool, rig setups (leader lengths, Frenchie and tungsten mop flies), rod/tippet choices, and proper catch‑and‑release handling. Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Joe Rotter interviews guide Tom Larimer about fishing the Deschutes: his background guiding Alaska to the Deschutes, why the river is unique (wade-only access), and detailed, practical tips for trout anglers — observing water, working deep banks, managing micro-drag and mend timing, yarn and foam indicators, rod/line recommendations, and rigs to maximize success. Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Joe Rotter chats with guide Steve Burns about transitioning to fall fishing: dealing with smoky skies, adjusting tippet and flies for clearer, cooler water, and techniques from yarn indicators to small streamers. They share guiding tips for new anglers, spay-casting advice, and stories from the Sierras to Alaska. Listeners get practical takeaways on leader and tippet choices, how to read fish behavior through drift and presentation, and when to switch strategies to find fish as the season changes.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Joe Rotter and guide Skyler Lancaster break down practical, easy-to-use tips for fall trout fishing: managing slack and mends, choosing indicator depth, when to use unweighted nymphs with split shot, and how to set the hook for streamers. They also cover wading strategy and scouting, tightline nymphing basics, simple fly-tying ideas (like a plain sculpin), and seasonal tactics for October caddis and mop flies to help anglers catch more fish.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Joe Rotter sits riverside with Hayden Williams for a wide-ranging Tuesday's Tippets: a salmon trip full of pinks, smoking fish, and a near-Chinook hook-up leads into an in-depth look at swung flies and trout spey. Hayden shares why he loves the swing, his early two-handed rod story, and the inspirations behind his "War Pig" sculpin pattern. The episode delivers practical, actionable advice — gear picks (rod, reels, heads and sink tips), casting distances, step cadence, fly size and presentation tips for trout, chums, and steelhead — plus on-water tactics for fishing chunks, managing lift on the swing, and how to get reps as a beginner.

Joe Rotter and guide Steve Joyce break down practical, easy-to-use fishing tips for the fall transition — from skateable crane-fly techniques and trout spey basics to carp, bass and redfish strategies. They discuss flip-flop flows on the Yakima, gear and leader choices, where to focus your casts, and how to make the most of tough days to become a better angler.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Welcome to the MEND podcast! Dive into a sponsor-free, ad-free fishing experience as we continue with our series, Tuesday's Tippets. In this episode, our host explores the world of fly fishing with one of the Pacific Northwest's most renowned guides, Leif Kvinsland from Red's Fly Shop. Discover captivating stories, expert tips on mastering fly fishing techniques, and witness the profound evolution of a fly shop into a fishing haven. Leif takes you through the transformation of Red's from its humble beginnings to a major fishing destination, sharing humorous anecdotes and the camaraderie of guiding. Learn about the essential skills every angler should develop, the nuances of casting, mending, and boat fishing dynamics, as well as the timeless importance of patience in fishing. Whether you're wade fishing, navigating drift boats, or just eager to improve, this episode delivers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for both novice and seasoned fly fishing enthusiasts. Tune in for a rich blend of personal stories, practical advice, and the undeniable allure of the river.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Join host Joe Rotter for a new edition of the MEND podcast from Red's Fly Shop, where the only promise is uninterrupted, ad-free discussions. This episode kicks off the 'Tuesday's Tippets' series, where Joe, along with Red's staff member and travel manager, Eric Nickum, dive into effective and relevant fishing tips for the current season. Listen in as Eric shares his journey into the fly fishing world, from competing in championships in his teens to guiding trips across various rivers. The conversation provides valuable insights into fly casting techniques, the importance of mastering casting for better trips, and the challenges and joys of fishing in remote, high mountain streams. Discover the richness of lake fishing, the joys of catching panfish, and the tactics behind successful hopper dropper fishing. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice eager to learn, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and some great storytelling from the heart of fishing culture.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Join Joe Rotter from Red's Fly Shop as he takes you on a journey through his fishing escapades of the spring and summer. In this episode of the MEND podcast, Joe shares his adventures, from bass fishing with his sons on a secret river to enjoying quality family times on the water. Discover the nuances of different fishing techniques, including streamer fishing for bass and the benefits of tight line nymphing. Joe also recounts relatable stories of navigating rivers, dealing with unpredictable fishing conditions, and learning valuable lessons from each outing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just along for the ride to work, this episode offers insights and entertainment for all.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Join Joe Rotter of Red's for an exciting episode of the MEND podcast, recorded from a remote location in Buenos Aires after a thrilling trout fishing trip in Argentina's Chebut province. Over six days, Joe explores diverse fisheries, fishing everything from lakes to rivers and spring creeks, focusing uniquely on the gear that powered his adventure. Without diving into exhaustive reviews, Joe shares his experiences and insights on the rods, reels, and lines that accompanied him, from the reliable Sage R8 and Orvis Helios D rods to favorite lines like the Sonar Titan Trout Express. Learn about Joe's top fly choices, perfect for any trout enthusiast looking to refine their arsenal, including his beloved Sir Stix A Lot streamer. Gear up and tune in for practical tips on fly fishing in beautiful locales and discover why Joe believes he's got the world's greatest job, alongside tales from his unforgettable fishing adventures in Patagonia.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Join host Joe Rotter from Reds for a solo episode packed with fishing updates, exciting events, and tips for both seasoned and new anglers. With no ads to interrupt, Joe keeps it real as he covers the joys of winter fishing, the benefits of a guided trip, and exclusive lodge deals for fishing and hunting enthusiasts. Discover the ins and outs of the Tightline Rendezvous event on March 15th, featuring clinics, a women's fly fishing course, and a used boat swap meet - all perfect opportunities for collaboration and learning. Joe also shares insights from his latest fishing adventures and tips for fishing efficiently throughout the year, touching on gear selection and tightline indicator fishing.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Welcome to the MEND podcast, where we dive into the world of fly fishing without flashy intros or sponsorships. In this episode, join host Joe Rotter and his pro staffers, Danny Robles and Hayden, as they share their experiences from the annual company retreat at the Snake and Grand Ronde rivers. Despite facing unlucky fishing conditions, the team relishes the opportunity to hone their fly fishing skills, engage in friendly banter, and embrace the serene yet challenging nature of spay fishing. Delve into the responsibilities of the Reds pro staffers, from managing e-commerce and social media to handling shuttles and guiding trips. Discover the value of patience, technique, and camaraderie in the pursuit of steelhead. While the trip lacked the thrill of fish-catching success for some, it highlighted the dedication and enthusiasm that define the Reds team’s approach to fly fishing. The episode provides insights into fly selection, the nuances of casting, and strategic approaches to different river conditions. Learn why staying persistent in the face of adversity is key to improving as an angler. Get ready to explore the art of spay fishing with Joe, Danny, and Hayden as they recount tales from an unforgettable fishing retreat.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Join us for an exciting episode as we dive into the world of spey fishing with expert Steve 'Bogey' Bogardus. Discover the latest trends and techniques in fly fishing, from the popular egg pattern to the innovative jig streamers, and learn how Bogey sneaks in fishing breaks while managing fulfillment at Reds Fly Shop. We take you behind the scenes at Reds to explore our efficient e-commerce system that ensures quick shipping to fly fishing enthusiasts around the world. Get insider tips on choosing the right gear and flies, and learn about our curated deadly dozens for various fishing destinations. Whether you’re planning a winter fishing trip or eager to explore new fishing techniques, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice to enhance your fly fishing experience. Don't miss out on our special winter rates and upcoming events!   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300 

Welcome to the MEND podcast, where host Joe Rotter and his guests, Skyler Lancaster and Eric Nickum, dive into the world of steelhead fishing. In this episode, they share insider tips and strategies for successful steelhead fishing, focusing on the importance of timing, technique, and location. Discover why casting efficiency and swing fishing are crucial for maximizing your chances of landing this majestic freshwater game fish. Join the discussion as the experts reveal their preferred gear setups and favorite fly patterns, offering valuable insights for both novice and experienced anglers. Learn how to plan a successful fishing trip, from selecting the right river to making the most of modern mapping tools. Whether you're a do-it-yourself angler or considering a guided experience, this episode is packed with practical advice to enhance your steelhead fishing adventures. Tune in for an engaging conversation that emphasizes the thrill and challenge of steelhead fishing, encouraging anglers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the pursuit of this legendary fish.   Connect with Red's : Website: https://www.redsflyfishing.com YouTube Channel: Red's Fly Shop - YouTube Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsflyshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsflyshop  Email: staff@redsflyshop.com Phone: (509) 933-2300