DiscoverThe Wadeoutthere Fly Fishing PodcastWOT 249: Smallmouth, Hard Work, and Perspective on the Kalamazoo River, with Jon Lee
WOT 249: Smallmouth, Hard Work, and Perspective on the Kalamazoo River, with Jon Lee

WOT 249: Smallmouth, Hard Work, and Perspective on the Kalamazoo River, with Jon Lee

Update: 2025-11-12
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In this episode we WadeOutThere with Jon Lee from Kalamazoo, Michigan.  Jon grew up in southwest Michigan, just outside of Kalamazoo.  He was introduced to fly fishing on the Pere Marquette River as a teenager, spending time with his great uncle, and slowly embracing the value of learning over catching.  

As a child, Jon would search through magazines depicting distant and exotic outdoor adventures that seemed out of reach, until he combined his love of fly fishing with an unapologetic work ethic and made his dreams of seeing the world a reality as a fly fishing guide.  After exploring many distant outdoor experiences, Jon moved home, to Michigan, to guide the waters of his youth, on the Kalamazoo River.  

We discuss smallmouth bass fishing on the Kalamazoo River, the value of perspective while pursuing fly fishing, and Jon’s book, A Guide’s Day Off, about the moments in fly fishing that make it special.

Learn More:

IG: @kalamazoo_river_guide
Jon's book: A Guide's Day Off
READ: WADEOUTTHERE | The Fish Are Always Biting - Mindset
READ: WADEOUTTHERE | Small Flies, Light Takes, and Lost Fish. It's Good For You


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Visit Stealthcraftboats.com or text or call 231-206-4056 and mention "WadeOutThere" when you contact Stealthcraft, for 15% OFF your first boat.

Visit TacticalFlyFisher.com and use Promo Code: wade15 at checkout for 15% off you next tactical gear purchase.

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WOT 249: Smallmouth, Hard Work, and Perspective on the Kalamazoo River, with Jon Lee

WOT 249: Smallmouth, Hard Work, and Perspective on the Kalamazoo River, with Jon Lee