The Barbless.co Fly Fishing Podcast

Hogan talks with Carson Maxstadt about the art and science of designing glide baits for giant stripers on the Sacramento River. Carson shares his journey from carving wooden baits to creating custom designs that entice big fish, discussing the nuances of bait action and depth. They explore how subtle changes in bait design can make a significant difference in fishing success.IntroductionWelcome to another exciting episode of The Barbless Podcast. In Episode 188, host Hogan Brown sits down with Carson Maxstadt to explore the thrilling world of chasing giant stripers on the Sacramento River. From big baits to hard lessons, this episode dives deep into the tactics and techniques that can make or break your fishing experience.Key Topics DiscussedOrigins of Carson Maxstadt: Carson shares his journey from a conventional angler to a master of striper fishing on the Sacramento River.Big Baits Strategy: The importance of using oversized lures and their effectiveness in attracting large stripers.Bait Design and Innovation: Carson's evolution from hand-carving wooden baits to designing advanced glide baits.Tips for Success: Practical advice on how to approach different fishing conditions and what gear to use.Important Quotes"To pigeonhole yourself to one thing is going to just exclude a lot of excellent opportunities around here." – Carson Maxstadt"I don't know anyone that catches more big stripers than you do." – Hogan Brown"The opportunity for failure is everywhere, especially with those big ones." – Carson MaxstadtKey TakeawaysFlexibility is Key: Embrace a versatile approach to fishing, combining both fly and gear techniques for maximum success.Experimentation Pays Off: Don't be afraid to try new things and learn through trial and error, both in bait design and fishing techniques.Understand Your Environment: Adapt your strategy based on water conditions and fish behavior for optimal results.Effective Presentation: The way a bait moves in the water can significantly impact its ability to attract fish.Action ItemsExperiment with different bait designs and presentations to find what works best for you.Consider the environmental conditions and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.Keep learning from other anglers and incorporate new techniques into your practice.ConclusionIn this insightful episode of The Barbless Podcast, Carson Maxstadt reveals the intricacies of striper fishing with big baits on the Sacramento River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Carson's experiences and advice offer valuable lessons to enhance your fishing game. Tune in to learn how to chase giant stripers and embrace the challenges and rewards that come with it.Full episode page, transcript and guests

Hogan talks with longtime advocate and conservationist Frank Rinella about the proposed Nature-Like Fish Passage Project on the Lower Yuba River at Daguerre Point Dam. This project is highly controversial among Lower Yuba River anglers, guides, and community members, as it would open the stretch above Daguerre Point Dam to all fish migration—stripers, shad, green sturgeon, and, yes, more salmon and steelhead.IntroductionWelcome to Episode 187 of The Barbless Podcast, where host Hogan Brown dives deep into the conservation efforts on the Lower Yuba River. Joined by longtime friend and conservation advocate Frank, they discuss the intricate details of the Lower Yuba River Nature-Like Fish Passage Project and its potential impact on the local ecosystem.Key Topics DiscussedThe Nature-Like Fish Passage Project on the Lower Yuba RiverConservation efforts and their impact on local fisheriesThe role of striped bass and their potential threat to native speciesGreen sturgeon migration and its importanceStakeholder involvement and public opinionImportant Quotes"The Yuba and the waters up here have been very good to me. When I was guiding, it was a kind of payback right now." - Frank"We're not trying to stop a project. The project has some good points to it." - Frank"There is a resident population of stripe in the Yuba." - FrankKey TakeawaysConservation Concerns: The primary concern is the potential impact of allowing striped bass to access previously restricted areas, risking the native trout and salmon populations.Project Goals: The project aims to enhance fish passage, especially for green sturgeon, but raises questions about the unintended consequences on the ecosystem.Stakeholder Involvement: Various conservation groups and local stakeholders are actively engaged in discussions, advocating for a balanced approach that protects native species.Scientific Monitoring: There is a strong call for ongoing monitoring and adaptive management to understand and mitigate potential impacts effectively.Action ItemsVisit the Gold Country Fly Fishers website for resources and updates on the project.Engage with local conservation groups to stay informed and participate in future public discussions.Share your views and concerns with local representatives to ensure a balanced approach in conservation efforts.ConclusionEpisode 187 of The Barbless Podcast provides an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities presented by the Lower Yuba River Nature-Like Fish Passage Project. Through engaging discussions with conservation expert Frank, listeners gain insight into the complexities of balancing fish passage improvements with ecological preservation. Stay informed and involved to ensure the best outcomes for these treasured waters.Full episode page, transcript and guests

The Barbless Podcast is BACK! In this quick check-in, Hogan previews a few upcoming episodes and talks about what to expect during the next season.IntroductionWelcome back to The Barbless Podcast, your go-to source for everything related to Northern California fly fishing, conservation, and more. After a hiatus, host Hogan Brown returns to catch up and share exciting updates. Dive into the latest developments in fisheries, guiding, and fly fishing expertise.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Hogan Brown reintroduces listeners to The Barbless Podcast after a break of several years. He reflects on personal commitments and shares the excitement of rekindling the podcast, promising engaging content with a lineup of interesting guests.Key Topics DiscussedReasons for the podcast's hiatus and Hogan's personal updatesUpcoming episodes featuring notable guests in the fly fishing communityConservation efforts and challenges facing the Lower Sacramento RiverCollaboration with sponsors and involvement of co-host ChadImportant Quotes"I've heard a lot of people say they enjoyed the episodes when they were coming out.""Hopefully, bandwidth allows me to sustain it and keep it going."Key TakeawaysThe podcast is making a strong return with a commitment to regular episodes.Hogan Brown is eager to share in-depth conversations with experts in the fishing community.Conservation of the Lower Sacramento River remains a focal point of discussion.Listeners are encouraged to contribute ideas and engage with the podcast.Action ItemsSubscribe to The Barbless Podcast and stay tuned for upcoming episodes.Connect with Hogan Brown on Instagram at @h2flyfishing or via email at [email protected] for show ideas and feedback.Engage with the sponsors and support the brands that make the podcast possible, including Luna Outdoors and Fly Fishing Specialties.ConclusionThe Barbless Podcast is back with renewed energy and a promise to deliver captivating content. Join Hogan Brown and his guests as they explore the world of fly fishing and conservation, bringing valuable insights to enthusiasts. Stay engaged, share your ideas, and be part of the conversation as the podcast resumes its journey.Full episode page, transcript and guests

Hogan sits down with Tema Roby and Julia Mitchell near their one-year anniversary of starting their non-profit Rising to the Fly which works to break down barriers to make fly fishing accessible and inclusive to all women. Enjoy their story and learn more here [https://risingtothefly.com](https://risingtothefly.com) ([https://risingtothefly.com/](https://risingtothefly.com/))IntroductionWelcome to Episode 185 of The Barbless Podcast Channel, hosted by Hogan Brown. In this episode, Hogan chats with the founders of the nonprofit organization, "Rising on the Fly", Tema and Julia. They discuss their mission to break down barriers in the fly fishing world, making it more inclusive and accessible for women.Key Topics DiscussedThe personal stories of Tema and Julia and their journey with fly fishingThe origins and mission of "Rising to the Fly"Barriers to entry in the fly fishing world and how the organization aims to overcome themPartnerships with other organizations like Casting for RecoveryExperiences and insights from their first year running the nonprofitFuture goals and plans for "Rising to the Fly"Important Quotes"Our mission is to provide gear, guidance, and support to women, breaking down barriers and making fly fishing inclusive for all." - Julia Mitchell"I was scared to try something new, but now I love fishing by myself and feel empowered." - Tema"This is why we're here. We're so thrilled to help women get out on the water." - Julia MitchellKey TakeawaysBarriers to Entry: Economic, informational, and psychological barriers can prevent women from engaging in fly fishing. "Rising to the Fly" works to dismantle these obstacles.Community Support: Partnerships with organizations like Casting for Recovery help provide resources and opportunities for women.Empowerment through Education: The organization emphasizes the importance of teaching and guiding women to become independent anglers.Growing Interest: The demand for beginner and intermediate clinics indicates a growing interest among women in fly fishing.Action ItemsVisit the "Rising to the Fly" website to learn more about their mission and how to get involved.Consider donating gear or financial support to help more women access fly fishing resources.Share this episode with friends who might be interested in supporting or joining the fly fishing community.ConclusionThe episode offers an inspiring look into how "Rising to the Fly" is changing the landscape of fly fishing by making it more inclusive and accessible for women. Tema and Julia's dedication to their mission is palpable, and their work is already having a significant impact. For those interested in supporting or learning more, this episode is a must-listen.Full episode page, transcript and guests

Hogan sits down with RJ Hosking of Rare Waters. Rare Waters is a new online booking company similar to Air BnB working to connect anglers with private landowners on private waters throughout the West. While "private water" holds a very different connotation in California than other places in the West, what Rare Waters is doing by providing cheap ($125-175 a day) access to world-class fisheries throughout the West for the average angler is an interesting idea. Learn more about what Rare Waters offers and the larger Private vs. Public land debate taking place in many other western states, that fortunately, most of us in California don't have to worry about. Learn More at [https://www.rarewaters.com](https://www.rarewaters.com)IntroductionIn this engaging episode of The Barbless Podcast Channel, host Hogan Brown explores the innovative approach of Rare Waters, a company transforming the way anglers access private fishing waters. With guest RJ Austin, CEO of Rare Waters, they dive into the unique challenges and opportunities in the world of fly fishing access.Key Topics DiscussedThe concept of Rare Waters as the "Airbnb for fly fishing"The challenges of river access in states like Colorado compared to CaliforniaRare Waters' partnership with landowners to provide affordable fishing accessThe environmental and economic benefits for landownersThe future expansion of Rare Waters into new regions and speciesImportant Quotes"We're essentially unlocking doors and gates and providing access that you don't need a club membership or a guide for." - RJ Austin"It's not about privatization, but about opening doors to properties that have never been accessed before." - RJ AustinKey TakeawaysInnovative Access Model: Rare Waters offers a unique model akin to Airbnb, providing affordable access to private fishing waters.Environmental Stewardship: The company partners with Trout Unlimited and other organizations to ensure sustainable fishing practices.Economic Benefits for Landowners: Landowners receive passive income, helping with property taxes and maintenance.Expansion Plans: Rare Waters aims to expand its offerings to include different species and regions.Action ItemsVisit the Rare Waters website to explore available properties.Sign up for the Rare Waters newsletter to stay updated on new properties and opportunities.Consider booking a trip through Rare Waters for a unique fishing experience.ConclusionThis episode of The Barbless Podcast Channel sheds light on the innovative solutions offered by Rare Waters to enhance fishing access while supporting environmental and economic sustainability. By bridging the gap between landowners and anglers, Rare Waters is transforming the fishing experience across the western United States.Full episode page, transcript and guests