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Trout Wrangler Podcast
Trout Wrangler Podcast
Author: Ryan Geraghty
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© Ryan Geraghty
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Welcome to the Trout Wrangler Podcast, your premier destination for everything fly fishing in North Carolina and the surrounding states. Hosted by Ryan Geraghty, an avid angler with a passion for exploring the diverse waters of the Southeast, this podcast is dedicated to bringing you the best in fly fishing knowledge, tips, and stories.
93 Episodes
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On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Simon Valencia, one of the minds behind Current Culture Fly, to talk fly fishing, teaching, community, and life on the bay. We start with Simon's fishing journey — where it began, when he transitioned to a fly rod, and how living in multiple places with very different fisheries helped shape his approach to fly fishing. From there, Simon breaks down his current home waters, explaining what makes his part of the bay unique and why it offers such a special fishery. We dive into the inspiration behind Current Culture Fly, its mission, and the community Simon and his crew are building in Richmond and beyond. Simon shares how they balance introducing total beginners to fly fishing while still pushing experienced anglers to grow and refine their skills. Teaching is a major focus of this episode — from Simon's key casting fundamentals for first-time anglers to stories from the water, including memorable trips, wild experiences, and guiding interesting clients. We also talk about the current state of the striped bass fishery, how it compares to New England, and what concerns anglers should be paying attention to. We wrap things up with five songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist, followed by final thanks and plugs.
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down to talk about the journey into fly fishing and the exciting process of opening a brick-and-mortar fly shop in Philadelphia. We start with how our guest first got into fishing, when the transition to a fly rod happened, and what originally sparked the idea of opening their own fly shop. From there, we dive into plans for potentially setting up shop right in downtown Philly and how location plays a role in accessibility, community, and growth. A big focus of this episode is community — how the shop plans to highlight local fly tyers, involve the surrounding angling scene, and create a space that feels welcoming and inclusive. We also talk about what the shop aims to offer that other fly shops in the area don't, and what excites them most about owning and operating a physical fly fishing storefront. We wrap things up with five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, followed by final thanks and plugs
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we welcome Louis back to the show for a return appearance to talk boat builds, custom skiffs, and what life has looked like since his last time on the podcast. We kick things off by catching up on how business has been going and breaking down several new boats Louis has sold and built since we last spoke, including some unique setups and standout modifications. Louis walks us through the process of building a bass boat version of a skiff, what made that project different, and whether he's had a chance to fish it with the owner yet. We spend time digging into the Bird of Prey build — what makes that boat special, the thinking behind running dual micro Power-Poles, and why smaller anchors sometimes make more sense than the biggest options available. Louis also shares some of the wildest customization requests he's seen recently. Outside of the shop, we talk about whether he's had time to get back on the water himself, what fishing has looked like lately, and we wrap things up with Louis' five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist. @Macuch_Craft on instagram https://www.macuchcraft.com/
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Hunter, a Florida-based fly angler, trip host, and the voice behind the Captains Collective Podcast. We kick things off with Hunter's early fishing roots and what pushed him to transition from conventional tackle to fly fishing. From there, we talk about what makes his corner of Florida unique compared to other fisheries around the state, and how local waters have shaped his approach to fishing and guiding. Hunter opens up about his background in ministry and how that chapter of his life influenced his decision to start podcasting, build community, and eventually run hosted fishing trips. We dig into the Drifter Club trips he's been a part of, where those adventures have taken place, and the species they've chased along the way — plus where he'd like to take the group next. We then transition into the Captains Collective Podcast — why Hunter started it, the meaning behind the name, and how storytelling has become such a central part of what he does. Hunter shares guests who've had a lasting impact on him, what helped the podcast grow, and the moment he realized this could become more than just a side project. We wrap it up with Hunter's five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, plus final thanks and plugs. Instagram: @hunter_leavine Official Website: captainscollective.com Main Instagram: @captainscollective Podcast on Apple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts – Captains Collective Fishing Podcast Podcast on Spotify: Listen on Spotify – Captains Collective Fishing Podcast YouTube Channel:@captainscollectivefishingp9998
In this episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I sit down with Rob, the angler and guide behind Fishing On The Move Aruba — one of the island's most respected flats and inshore guiding services. We break down his fishing journey, what inspired him to start guiding, and how growing up in Aruba shaped the way he approaches both fly and spin fishing. Rob walks us through the origin of Fishing On The Move, what the name represents, and how he crafts unique, flexible experiences for clients targeting species like permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook, and more. We also talk sustainable fishing practices, trip lengths, tidal considerations, fishing regulations, and what traveling anglers should know before stepping onto the flats. From local insight to unforgettable stories, Rob shares some of his most memorable client trips, the hardest lessons he learned fishing in Aruba, and whether he's ever guided athletes or celebrities on the island. Plus — Rob adds 5 songs to the growing Trout Tunes Playlist on Spotify. Thanks for listening, and big shoutout to Riversmith for supporting the show. https://www.fishingonthemove.com/ @Fishingonthemove297 @Saltyrob297
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Vince, an angler, trip host, and one of the minds behind SWC. Vince walks us through his fishing journey — where it began, when he transitioned to the fly rod, and how Florida's diverse fisheries shaped him as an angler. We dig into his hosted trips, the destinations he takes anglers to, the species they target, and the fisheries he loves most outside of his home waters. Vince also shares the one piece of gear he never leaves home without, plus a few dream destinations he hopes to host in the future. Then we shift into the story of SWC — how the company started, why it began, the shops they're currently in, and what the long-term vision looks like for the brand. We finish with five songs for the Trout Tunes Playlist and final thanks and plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — use code WRANGLER10 at checkout. Instagram: @vstegura Instagram: @swc_fishing https://www.skinnywaterculture.com
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Galen, the founder of Asheville Fly Fishing Company, to dig into the story behind one of Western North Carolina's most respected guide operations. Galen walks us through how the business began, what the original vision was, and how it has grown into a go-to outfitter serving anglers across WNC and Tennessee. We break down the diverse fisheries of the region — from wild trout streams to smallmouth rivers to the elusive musky waters — and what makes the Southern Appalachians unlike anywhere else. Galen shares how he selects and trains guides, what trip types he recommends for beginners vs. experienced anglers, and how seasonality, water levels, and local conservation shape the guiding experience. We also get into what he wishes more anglers understood about WNC fishing, future trip types he'd like to offer, and one of his most memorable days on the water with a client. As always, the episode wraps with five songs for the Trout Tunes playlist and final plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — use code WRANGLER10 at checkout. @AshevilleFlyFishingcompany
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Juan — known online as BigFishCol — a master fly tier, saltwater angler, and one of the most creative minds in modern fly tying. We dive into his fishing roots, his transition to the fly rod, and the detailed approach behind the patterns he's become known for. Juan breaks down the purpose behind his unique dual-cork-section rod setup, shares the story behind his latest fishing trip, and talks about his favorite species to chase both inside and outside of Florida. His fly-tying content is some of the cleanest and most educational on the internet, so we dig into how he keeps ideas fresh, avoids falling into "generic pattern mode," and continually pushes creativity. We also talk EP fiber techniques, alternative tying materials that save money, and what would make the Mount Rushmore of saltwater flies. The episode wraps up with Juan's picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist and final plugs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Use code WRANGLER10 at checkout.
In this loaded Holiday Gear Guide episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast Season 2, Ryan breaks down some of the best fly-fishing, outdoor, and lifestyle deals of the season. From apparel to rods, sunglasses to coolers, gift cards to daily deals — this is the full rundown of what's worth grabbing and where the best value is across the fishing industry. Ryan highlights partners, his personal favorite picks, budget recommendations, and stocking-stuffer ideas for every type of angler.
Welcome back to Episode 61 of The Trout Wrangler Podcast! Today, Ryan sits down with Kirk Marks — award-winning angler, writer, photographer, filmmaker, and the creative mind behind some of Flylords' most beautiful storytelling. Kirk joins us from Kent Island, Maryland, where he splits his time between chasing fish, crafting wild meals, and documenting fishing culture with a camera and a pen. We get into everything — his fishing beginnings, how food and fly fishing collided in his life, what species define his home waters, how he balances shooting photos while actually fishing, and the stories behind his work with Flylords, including A Journey Upstream and other film projects. If you love fly fishing, filmmaking, wild game, photography, or the intersection of all three — this is a must-listen. Stick around for Kirk's Five Songs, and Ryan's final thanks and plugs. https://www.instagram.com/kirkymarks/ https://flylordsmag.com/author/kirkmarks/
In Episode 60 of The Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Tripp, joined by Nick Davis and Jim — the minds behind 828 Flies, 843 Flies & Outfitters, and 239 Flies. This crew has built one of the most unique multi-region fly shop lineups in the Southeast and Gulf Coast, and today we unpack the full story of how it all came to life. We start with Tripp's fishing journey and when he made the switch to the fly rod. Then we dive into the creation of 828 Flies, exploring how Nick and Jim helped shape the shop's identity around the iconic Western NC area code and the tight-knit mountain fishing culture. From there, we head south to the Lowcountry to discuss how 843 Flies & Outfitters came to be — why Charleston was the perfect next step, and how the 843 identity reflects that fishery and community. We finish by digging into 239 Flies, what makes the Southwest Florida fishery so unique, and how drastically different it is from 828 and 843 despite sharing a saltwater focus. The guys walk through how they handle seasonality, tides, storms, gear recommendations, and the realities of helping anglers navigate multiple fisheries. We wrap up with Tripp's five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Use code WRANGLER10 at checkout. Instagram: @828flies Website: https://828flies.com 843 Flies & Outfitters Instagram: @843flies Website: https://843flies.com 239 Flies Instagram: @239flies Website: https://239flies.com
On today's episode of The Trout Wrangler Podcast, we're joined by Chris, founder of Buttery Brown Bourbon, to talk about the intersection of two timeless passions — fly fishing and fine bourbon. Chris shares how his fly fishing journey began and what inspired him to create a bourbon brand rooted in the culture of the "buttery brown" trout. We dive into the story behind the brand name — a tribute to both the buttery brown trout and the smooth, brown, buttery liquid — and explore how those two worlds blend together in the identity of Buttery Brown Bourbon. We also discuss the balance between bourbon craftsmanship and fly-fishing storytelling, how the brand authentically connects with both audiences, and the challenges that come with building a boutique bourbon label with a strong outdoor narrative. Finally, Chris gives us a look at what's next for Buttery Brown Bourbon — from potential collaborations and limited releases to future fishing and lifestyle experiences tied to the brand — before wrapping up with his five Trout Tunes playlist picks, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and premium fly-fishing gear. The Day I Disremembered Film https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DPeZm4IwHM
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Jake Hutcheson to talk about his journey from building rods to creating content full-time in the fly fishing world. Jake shares how his fishing journey began, how he first picked up a fly rod, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We dive into his early days of rod building, competing in tournaments, and how each of those experiences shaped his creative process today. He opens up about the decision to quit his job and chase the dream of working full-time in fishing — the risks, rewards, and what he's learned about staying authentic in the ever-changing world of social media. Jake also talks about balancing creativity, fishing, and the challenges of building a personal brand in today's digital space. We wrap up the show with Jake's five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear.
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Joe from Columbia PFG to talk about his journey through fly fishing, creative work, and the conservation side of the outdoor industry. Joe shares how his time at the University of Georgia helped shape his passion for content and storytelling and how it eventually led him to his current role with Columbia PFG. We dive into Columbia's recent collaborations — including the hit Paul Puckett collection — and talk about what's next for the brand, from future artist partnerships to upcoming conservation-focused projects. We also cover the wildly popular College Tailgate Series that's been popping up at some of the biggest college football matchups across the country. Joe gives us an inside look at the behind-the-scenes planning, what makes these events so special, and whether fans can expect to see them continue into bowl season. And, of course, we wrap up the episode with a little Georgia football talk and Joe's five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear.
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Nate from Waterman Outfitters, a Florida-based angler, designer, and advocate for conservation. Nate shares how his fishing journey began on his home waters in Florida and when he first picked up the fly rod to chase saltwater species. We dive into the story behind Waterman Outfitters — what inspired him to start the brand, his apparel design process, and how he creates gear that's both functional and stylish. Nate also shares his top UV protection essentials for staying safe under the Florida sun, beyond just sunscreen. From partnering with Bobby Lane and Bobby Lane Jr. to creating a line that bridges freshwater and saltwater anglers, Nate talks about how Waterman Outfitters found its unique space in the fishing community. We also discuss his support for Project Sea Safe and why conservation of Florida's fisheries should matter to every angler. Nate recaps his recent experience fishing the Poonfecta Tournament with Louis, including how Louis's boats performed under pressure, and we wrap up the conversation with his favorite restaurant in Crystal River and five Trout Tunes picks, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on premium rod holders and gear. Social Links: Follow Waterman Outfitters → @watermanoutfitters Shop apparel → watermanoutfitters.com RYSFLIES25 at checkout to save 25%
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Eli from Fly High Eli, a talented creator, guide, and storyteller whose work has been featured in both The Drake Magazine and the Fly Fishing Film Tour. Eli shares where his fly fishing journey began, how the Fly High Eli name came to life, and what the brand represents on a deeper level. We talk about the creative process behind his acclaimed films, what goes into scouting and producing new projects, and how he balances family life with fishing and content creation. He also dives into the lessons he's learned while building a brand in the outdoor space, the transition from guiding to content creation, and how he uses time on the water with his kids to teach life lessons through fishing. We also chat gear — including Eli's favorite Free Fly Apparel pieces he never leaves home without — and what's next for Fly High Eli over the next few years, from new adventures to future collaborations. We wrap up the episode with Eli's five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on premium rod holders and gear. Follow Eli on Instagram → @flyhigheli Watch his films on YouTube → Fly High Eli
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we sit down with Joe, a Massachusetts-based fly guide and Boston Harbor striper charter captain, to talk about his fishing journey, chasing fish along the New England coast, and what life looks like when the season winds down. Joe shares how he first got into fly fishing, what inspired him to start guiding, and how his business has grown over the years. We talk about the ins and outs of running striper fly charters in Boston Harbor — from finding bait and reading tides to handling the hustle of a short coastal season. Joe also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his second venture, The Agave Co, and how he balances business, fishing, and family life through the off-season. We wrap up the episode with Joe's five picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, presented by Afuera Coffee. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith — visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear. @Fishboston @Captjoegugino
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I'm joined by Florida-based artist and angler Travis Luther to talk about his journey in both fishing and art. We kick things off with Travis' fishing story and how growing up around water in Florida shaped his love for the outdoors. From there, we dive into his art—whether he's painting custom designs on Yeti products, wallets, and pocketbooks, or letting his imagination run free on canvas. Travis shares how customer requests guide some of his work, while other pieces start with his own vision blending hunting, fishing, and lifestyle scenes. He also talks about whether he's ever done sports or music-themed pieces, the stories behind some of his favorite works, and what it's like creating art for high-profile clients. Outside of fishing and art, Travis opens up about his hobbies, and what he'd spend a day doing if he wasn't holding a brush or rod. We wrap it up with his picks for the Trout Tunes Playlist, plugs for his work, and what's next on the horizon. Check out Travis' work at travislutherart.com Travis Luther Art and follow him on Instagram at @travislutherart Instagram. This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 to save on rod holders and gear.
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, I'm joined by Jake, the creative mind behind Fish and Grits—a fishing lifestyle brand that blends saltwater culture, humor, and standout apparel. We kick things off with Jake's fishing journey: where it all started, and how saltwater fly fishing grabbed hold of him. From there, we dive into the origin of Fish and Grits—what inspired him to start the brand, the meaning behind the name, and how he's carved out a space in the fishing apparel world. Jake shares how he creates the hilarious sayings and designs that set his gear apart, the role social media has played in the brand's growth, and the art of making memes that actually hit the mark. We even dig into his "Almost Friday" posts and how he picks the perfect photos that always seem spot-on. We wrap things up with a look at Jake's life beyond fishing and apparel, and of course, he adds five songs to the Trout Tunes playlist. Check out Fish and Grits at fishandgrits.us and follow along on Instagram @fish.and.grits. This one's a fun mix of fishing, creativity, and plenty of laughs. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Head to riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 at checkout to save on rod holders and gear.
On today's episode of the Trout Wrangler Podcast, we're covering two important topics for anglers this fall: protecting yourself from the sun and the upcoming North Carolina delayed harvest stockings. First, we talk about the realities of long days on the water—UV exposure, the importance of the right gear, sunscreen tips, and why protecting your skin should be just as much a part of your fishing setup as rods and flies. Then we shift gears to the latest stocking updates for North Carolina's delayed harvest streams. With cooler weather and fresh fish being added, this is the time to start planning trips across the mountains and foothills. I'll break down what anglers can expect and which stretches to keep an eye on. And of course, we wrap it all up with my college football picks and predictions, presented by Afuera Coffee—because fall in the South means trout fishing and football go hand in hand. 🎣 This episode is brought to you by Riversmith. Visit riversmith.com and use code WRANGLER10 at checkout to save 10%.


















