Anchored with April Vokey

Steve Duda is a renowned writer and editor with a deep passion for fly fishing and outdoor adventure. His work has appeared in some of the most prestigious angling publications, including his latest book, River Songs, where his storytelling captures the heart and soul of the sport. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss optics in outdoor marketing, how fly fishing connects us, gate-keeping, fishing in Guyana, and more. If you enjoy the show and are looking to take your learning to the next level, why not come over and check out what we’ve been up to at Anchored Outdoors. With 30 sequentially organised Masterclasses from guests of the show, we’ve proudly witnessed over 1000 members achieve promising results and confidence on the water. Want to try it out for FREE with no money down and zero commitment? Become an Anchored Insider at anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rebecca McCarthy is a seasoned author and journalist with a passion for bringing historical figures and their legacies to life through storytelling. Her latest work, Norman Maclean: A Life of Letters and Rivers, offers an intimate portrait of the man behind A River Runs Through It. Drawing on her long friendship with Maclean, Rebecca intertwines personal anecdotes with broader historical insights to reveal the forces that shaped his literary achievements. Today, she joins us to explore the fascinating life of Norman Maclean and discuss her new book, which delves deep into his complex legacy. If you enjoy the show and are looking to take your learning to the next level, why not come over and check out what we’ve been up to at Anchored Outdoors. With 30 sequentially organised Masterclasses from guests of the show, we’ve proudly witnessed over 1000 members achieve promising results and confidence on the water. Want to try it out for FREE with no money down and zero commitment? Become an Anchored Insider at anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick Passek is a passionate fly fisher with decades of experience on the water. Known for his dedication to the craft, Rick has become a respected figure in the fly fishing community, sharing his knowledge and expertise with anglers of all levels. He is an accomplished author, having written several books on fly fishing techniques, entomology, and the art of tying flies. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss his upbringing, books, and experience as a digital nomad. We cover everything from fishing BC’s interior, to the invasion of Prussian carp, roadtripping through Mexico and more. Become an Anchored Insider at www.anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fred Campbell is the innovative founder of Hooke, a company dedicated to revolutionizing the outdoor industry. Apart from his jaw-dropping work in film-making, his work with Hooke focuses on developing gear that enhances the outdoor experience. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss some of Quebec’s salmon history, the story of Hooke, launching a clothing company, embracing change, our future, parallels in hunting, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andrea Larko is a celebrated fish artist known for her vibrant and dynamic depictions of aquatic life. Blending realism with imaginative color palettes, her work captures the essence and beauty of fish. An avid fly fisher, Andrea draws inspiration from her fishing experiences, creating pieces that resonate with collectors and fishing enthusiasts alike. Her art has been featured in galleries and publications, and she actively supports aquatic conservation through collaborations with environmental organizations. In this episode of Anchored, Andrea and I discuss how she went from student to celebrated fishing artist, the process behind the art on Abel Reels, AI art, theft, and staying true to yourself, and so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For over 40 years, Dayle Mazzarella has excelled as an award-winning coach and teacher, holding a B.A. and an M.A. in Education. He spends summers in Wyoming as a fly fishing guide. Dayle has fished globally, gaining extensive knowledge of various gamefish. As one of the world's few International Federation of Fly Fishers’ Master Casting Instructors, he teaches and mentors all skill levels.  In this episode of Anchored, we discuss Dayle’s background and teaching philosophy. We cover his journey from aspiring historian to fly fishing guide, his involvement in various physical activities, and his emphasis on perseverance and positivity in teaching. You can find his video, The Last Day, here. If you enjoy the show and are looking to take your learning to the next level, why not come over and check out what we’ve been up to at Anchored Outdoors. With 30 sequentially organised Masterclasses from guests of the show, we’ve proudly witnessed over 1000 members achieve promising results and confidence on the water. Want to try it out for FREE with no money down and zero commitment? Become an Anchored Insider at anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave Stewart grew up fishing the Deschutes River in central Oregon, discovering his passion for fly fishing at an early age. Raised in a fly shop, a fly rod was a constant companion throughout his life. In 2017, Dave launched The Wet Fly Swing Podcast, which is driven by Dave's consistency, engaging guests, and his passion for both podcasting and fly fishing. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss the ins and outs of podcasting, what drives Dave’s passion to release three episodes a week, how he finds his guests, and so much more!  If you enjoy the show and are looking to take your learning to the next level, why not come over and check out what we’ve been up to at AnchoredOutdoors.com. With 30 sequentially organised Masterclasses from guests of the show, we’ve proudly witnessed over 1000 members achieve promising results and confidence on the water. Want to try it out for FREE with no money down and zero commitment? Become an Anchored Insider at anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick Matney grew up fly fishing in Northeastern Washington with his Dad and Grandfather. In 2000, he moved to Bozeman Montana for college where he earned a degree in Cell Biology. Working his way through school as a trout guide, he has now turned his passion into a career. Rick guides in Montana and Alaska, with some occasional saltwater flats guiding in Hawaii. Rick is a strong advocate for the conservation of wild steelhead and brings a unique energy to everything he does. Along with his expert knowledge of steelhead, Rick also doubles as gourmet chef.  In this episode of Anchored, we discuss how Rick turned from medical student to full-time fishing guide, his exciting discovery of steelhead in lesser known streams, our upcoming trip at his lodge in Wrangell, AK, and more! If you enjoy the show and are looking to take your learning to the next level, why not come over and check out what we’ve been up to at Anchored Outdoors. With 30 sequentially organised Masterclasses from guests of the show, we’ve proudly witnessed over 1000 members achieve promising results and confidence on the water. Want to try it out for FREE with no money down and zero commitment? Become an Anchored Insider at anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Wood is the CEO of Trout Unlimited. Before joining TU in 2001, he served as a senior policy advisor to the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, protecting 58 million acres of public land. Chris began his career with the Forest Service in Idaho and later worked with the Fish and Wildlife program of the Bureau of Land Management. In this two-part episode of Anchored, we discuss the issue of abandoned mines in the US, their cleanup, and the potential of the 'Good Samaritan remediation' approach to facilitate these cleanups. We delve into the legacy of mining and hydropower in the US, as well as how TU navigates the issue of introduced fish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Wood is the CEO of Trout Unlimited. Before joining TU in 2001, he served as a senior policy advisor to the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, protecting 58 million acres of public land. Chris began his career with the Forest Service in Idaho and later worked with the Fish and Wildlife program of the Bureau of Land Management. In the second part of this two-part episode, we pick up where we left off, and also explore conversation around hatcheries and TU’s thoughts on climate change Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Millie Paini grew up mountain biking and rock climbing, taking up fly fishing in her mid-twenties. A sought-after casting instructor, Millie co-owns TroutHunter on the Henry’s Fork. She resides near Last Chance, Idaho, enjoying both freshwater and saltwater fishing.  In this episode of Anchored, we share personal updates and reminisce about past careers and experiences in the fly fishing industry. We cover the challenges and rewards of running a fly shop, the complexities of obtaining an outfitter license, and Millie's journey as a female ambassador in the industry. The conversation also touches on the evolution of Millie's business, the effects of climate change on local conservation efforts, and our comparison of why our daughters may prefer not fishing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mac Brown is the owner of Mac Brown Fly Fish and Fly Fishing Guide School in Western NC. Mac pioneered the first full-time fly fishing guide service in the region and was instrumental in establishing the Upper Nantahala River's Delayed Harvest. As an educator, Mac served as an Associate Professor at Western Carolina University, shaping the next generation of anglers and fostering the area's competitive fishing scene. Author of "Casting Angles," Mac is a Master Casting Instructor and a Southern Fly Fishing Hall of Famer. Recognized by FFI with prestigious awards, including the Mel Krieger Fly Casting Instructor Award and Lifetime Achievement Award, Mac's contributions extend beyond teaching to product development and media presence. Active in fly fishing shows and youth coaching, Mac's legacy is rooted in decades of dedication to the sport and its community. In this episode of Anchored we discuss advanced fly casting, trick casts, fly fishing’s evolution and so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Brod is a seasoned writer whose essays have graced the pages of numerous prestigious publications. Recently, he achieved another milestone with the publication of his first book, "Tributaries." However, Ryan's connection to the outdoors runs deep. Growing up surrounded by the hunting and fishing culture of the Belgrade Lakes region, he learned about fishing from his father, a generational guide. This upbringing shaped his path, leading him to become a Maine Guide in his early twenties. Today, Ryan shares his passion for both storytelling and the natural world as a teacher of first-year writing and creative nonfiction at the University of New England. His experiences range from guiding inexperienced New Yorkers on frozen lakes to pursuing giant tarpons in the waters of Florida. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss fishing in Maine, how to fly fish from a canoe, fishing for carp in tidal waters, what makes us hunters (as anglers), choosing passion over profit in this day and age, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Schultz, affectionately known as “Schultzy,” is the Owner of Schultz Outfitters Fly Shop & Guide Service, a hub for Southern Michigan angling, instruction, and destination travel. Growing up in Michigan, he developed a connection with the outdoors, which ultimately led him to pursue a career in the fly-fishing industry. Spending countless hours on the water each year, Schultzy has honed his expertise in Midwestern waters and beyond. While his primary focus remains on the warm-water fishing havens of Southern Michigan, his angling adventures have taken him to exotic locations around the world. Driven by a passion for conservation, Schultzy has played a pivotal role in founding annual fundraisers like the Huron River Single Fly and Huckin’ for the Huron, in collaboration with the Huron River Watershed Council. These events support the preservation of Michigan’s Blue-Ribbon Smallmouth stream, the Huron River. Outside of his angling pursuits, Schultzy resides in Dexter, Michigan, nestled along the banks of The Huron River with his wife, Allie, and their sons, Tanner and Dylan. With a commitment to sharing his passion for fishing and conservation, Schultzy continues to inspire anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike—myself included. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss the process of opening his fly shop in Ypsilanti, tactics for catching smallmouth bass on the fly, the effects of water temperature, tackle, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron Goodis's journey with fly fishing began at the tender age of six, igniting a lifelong passion for the sport. While he possesses a comprehensive understanding of various facets of fly fishing, his primary focus lies in chasing Steelhead across the remote and local rivers of British Columbia. From the renowned Dean River to the formidable Thompson, Aaron's quest for these elusive fish is unwavering. Beyond his love for angling, Aaron is a devoted landscape, fly fishing, and adventure photographer based in Vancouver, BC. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss how Aaron got involved in the Spey scene in the early years, his struggle with Crohn’s disease, getting his casting certification, grieving dead river systems, and more. Find Aaron at: His website: www.aarongoodisphoto.com On instagram here. On Facebook at www.facebook.com/aaron.goodis.photography Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s episode is a bit of a departure from the norm, but I’m happy to stand behind it nonetheless. When friend and past podcast guest, Louis Cahill, reached out and suggested we sit down together with Andrew Grillos, I knew it was going to be a special conversation. So, in this episode of Anchored, the three of us gathered to discuss a topic that's close to our hearts: men’s mental health in the world of fly fishing. The conversation is admittedly a bit scattered, but I think that adds to its authenticity. Throughout our discussion, we shared personal stories, insights, and reflections on the unique mental health challenges that men in the fly fishing community often face. From the pressures of maintaining a tough exterior to the stigma surrounding seeking help, we covered a lot of ground. But amidst the conversation, there's a clear message that I hope resonates with Anchored listeners: You're not alone. No matter what you're going through, there's always someone out there who's willing to listen and help. Whether it's a friend, a family member, or a professional counselor, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. So, as you listen to this episode, I encourage you to reflect on your own mental health journey. And if you find yourself struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for help. You deserve to live a happy and fulfilling life, both on and off the water. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for a quick conversation with Charles Gaines, an iconic outdoor writer, and the ingenious creator of paintball. In this episode, we delve deep into the pages of Charles' extraordinary career, exploring his contributions to outdoor literature and the unexpected twist of fate that led to the birth of the worldwide sensation, paintball. From his early days as an outdoor enthusiast to becoming a celebrated author, Charles Gaines' story is a testament to the power of passion and innovation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Harris is a London-based photographer who started his angling journey at an early age — now at 58, he’s more hooked than ever. Matt's love for fly-fishing has led him on hundreds of extraordinary adventures across the globe, from Russia's Arctic Circle to the Amazon jungle, Australia’s Northern Territories... there’s hardly a fly fishing destination he hasn’t visited. In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, we discuss… everything. From snooty fishing, remote jungle escapades, today’s fishing media, Atlantic salmon in Norway and Russia, even my wedding weekend on the Bulkley ten years ago. We cover it all in this week’s episode and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.  You can find Matt’s latest book, "THE FISH OF A LIFETIME,” at https://thefishofalifetime.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Anchored, I had the pleasure of hosting Lucy Bowden, the visionary founder of Fishing For Everyone, established in 2005. Hailing from Britain, Lucy is not just an angling coach but a passionate angler who discovered her love for the sport at the tender age of five. What sets Lucy apart is her unwavering belief that fishing should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or ability. Her dedication to breaking down barriers and encouraging inclusivity within the angling community is truly inspiring. As a prominent female angler, Lucy has become a beacon for women in the sport, motivating countless individuals to take up fishing. Her founding principle was simple yet profound: to provide everyone with the opportunity to experience the joy of fishing in a safe and supportive environment.  We discuss Lucy's remarkable journey, making silly decisions in our twenties, private land, coaching, stillwater fishing in the UK, and the empowering ethos behind Fishing For Everyone. I'd like to take a moment to highlight Skip Morris' latest publication, "Top 12 Nymphs for Trout Streams: How, When, and Where to Fish Them." This exceptional book delves into the realms of fly-fishing and fly-tying, guiding readers through twelve outstanding nymph-flies and offering insights on how to effectively catch trout in creeks, streams, and rivers. Each nymph-fly is accompanied by a vivid color photograph, with Skip Morris providing detailed information on its imitation, purpose, and behavior in the water. Morris doesn't just stop there; he shares invaluable tips on how to fish each fly efficiently, including the optimal depth, the best times for fishing, and various proven fishing methods. The book also includes a section to aid in selecting the right fly for specific conditions and choosing the most effective method for presenting it to trout. For both novices and seasoned pros navigating the intricate world of trout flies, Skip Morris' expert guidance simplifies the process. This book not only informs but also entertains, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about fly-fishing. To explore and enhance your fly-fishing experience, consider checking out the book through this purchase link: Top 12 Nymphs for Trout Streams.   https://www.skip-morris-fly-tying.com/top-12-nymphs-for-trout-streams-how-when-and-where-to-fish-them-2nd-edition.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Zeb Hogan is a research biologist at the University of Nevada, Reno and the United Nations Convention on Migratory Species Scientific Councilor for Fish. He has a doctoral degree in ecology, was a visiting Fulbright scholar at the Environmental Risk Assessment Program at Thailand’s Chiang Mai University and has served as a World Wildlife Fund Senior Freshwater Fellow. Zeb also hosts the popular National Geographic Wild Television series “Monster Fish.” In this episode of Anchored, I sit down with Zeb to learn more about his studies, his show, and his fascinating experiences with gigantic aquatic species. This episode of Anchored is brought to you by GiantMouse Knives! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices