Steelhead Alley Podcast

In Episode #6 , Kyle and Zack pick up where they left off in part one of their steelhead trip preparation series — shifting from weather, flows, and layering into the gear and rigging details that make or break a successful trip.This episode dives into the nuts and bolts of getting your setup dialed in: preferred leader builds, terminal tackle choices, and why tying a fresh batch of flies before you leave can save time and frustration on the water. The guys also break down their favorite planning tools — from apps and online resources to the small habits that help you map out smarter, more productive days on the tributaries.Whether you're getting ready for your first steelhead trip or fine-tuning your routine for another season on the Alley, this episode is all about filling in the gaps and helping you hit the water fully prepared.

In episode #5 of the Steelhead Alley Podcast, Kyle and Zack kick off a two-part deep dive into preparing for your next steelhead trip. Part one is all about comfort, safety, and being ready for whatever the Alley throws at you.From checking weather forecasts and monitoring stream flows and CFS levels, to staying warm with the right base layers, outerwear, and waterproof gear — the guys break down what it takes to keep yourself dry and fishing strong all day. They’ll cover traction tips for slick slate bottoms, how to move safely through snow and ice, and the benefits of smart on-the-water storage setups.They also share a few personal gear favorites and small accessories that make long steelhead days smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

In episode #4 of the Steelhead Alley Podcast, Kyle and Zack break down one of their favorite topics — the difference between trout and East Coast steelhead. From lake-run migrations and fresh chrome arrivals to the transformation steelhead go through as they hold in the tribs, the guys dig into what truly sets these fish apart.They cover how these changes influence fly selection, presentation, and gear setup, plus the adjustments every angler makes as water temps drop and conditions shift across Steelhead Alley. Whether you’re chasing bright, fresh steelhead from the lake or those colored-up fish holding to spawn, this episode dives deep into what makes each pursuit its own unique experience — and how to fine-tune your mindset and approach when chasing these incredible fish.

In episode #3, Kyle and Zack dive into what makes fall trout fishing so special on the East Coast. As summer fades, cool nights and steady flows wake up the rivers, and trout shift into an entirely different gear. Brown trout get aggressive and territorial, chasing streamers with attitude, while brook trout light up in their brilliant spawning colors — and with winter steelhead just around the corner, anticipation is high across Steelhead Alley.The guys break down tactics, gear, and seasonal approaches, while soaking in everything that makes fall fishing unforgettable — crisp mornings, vibrant fall foliage, and that unmistakable energy in the air. Whether you’re chasing big, fired-up browns or enjoying that moment of calm, fall is one of the best times to be on the water

In episode #2, hosts Kyle and Zack dive into the classic debate of chasing big fish versus going for numbers.This conversation starts with a broader look at trout fishing, where the trade-off between size and numbers is often front and center, before shifting into steelhead, where the stakes—and the fish—get even bigger.Is it just the mood you’re in when you hit the stream, the stage you’re at in your fly fishing journey—or is it more about the mindset you bring to the water?We unpack these ideas and plenty more in this episode of the Steelhead Alley Podcast.

In this kickoff episode, your hosts, Kyle Ale and Zack Vanderslice, sit down to share fishing experiences that shaped their love for chasing trout. We start by looking back at our roots—those early days of spin fishing as kids—and trace the path that eventually led us to the fly rod.Throughout the conversation, we explore how our techniques, approaches, and perspectives have evolved over time, from targeting trout to developing a passion for chasing steelhead on the fly.Whether you’re new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler, this episode offers a glimpse into the journey of two lifelong fishermen who want to share their time spent on the water.