Lance Kittel is the founder of Pesca Vida, a custom fly rod company that’s as much about soul as it is about graphite. In this episode, Lance joins Ed and Reid to talk about building rods from scratch, traveling the world with a fly rod, and why a two-inch fish can be just as satisfying as a 150-pound tarpon.
We cover golden dorado in Bolivia, jungle missions in Colombia, and how a goofy grin and a fly rod can open doors in just about any country. Lance shares how he built Pesca Vida out of thread, glue, a first date and an obsession. But more than gear, we talk about the mindset: community outside your community, the joy of learning from others, and not being afraid to get loud in a traditionally quiet sport.
If you’re into DIY trips, beautiful fish, and good people, this one hits all three.
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Karin Miller is the founder of Zen Tenkara and a pioneer in pushing minimalist fishing to big, bold places. In this episode, she shares how a childhood fishing trip with her dad—and a surprise catch of a Matchbox cement truck—sparked a lifelong connection to the water.
From the frustrations of early fly fishing to finding freedom through Tenkara, Karin walks us through her evolution as an angler, a business owner, and an adventurer. We talk about fish management, gear simplicity, why she gave chased tarpon without a reel, and what happened when a fly shop owner told her she'd never catch a bonefish with “that thing.”
She didn’t just prove him wrong—she opened a whole new fishing bucket list!
We also hit on themes of conservation, what it means to build an ethical fishing brand, and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters more than being good at something right away. An absolute thrill of a conversation!
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Boyd Waters is a deer hair fly tyer, guide and content creator known as Fly Fishing Studios. He brings a blend of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom from both his military service and his years chasing fish. Boyd shares his journey from US Army Airborne to fly fishing guide—and how Project Healing Waters gave him back the brotherhood he missed after leaving the service. We swap stories of fly tying disasters, the art of packing for a trip like it’s a mission, and how certain rivers become sacred ground once you truly know them.Boyd reminds us that fishing’s not just about the catch—sometimes it’s church, therapy, or simply an excuse to sit around playing cards with your closest friends. He opens up about fatherhood, the power of community, and the freedom that comes from learning to surrender—to the river, the moment, and even your emotions.
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This week Reid and Ed talk with Thomas Watts, the passionate fly fisherman behind Canadian Trout Bum, who joins us from his ultimate fly tying sanctuary in Ottawa, Canada. Thomas shares his journey from being inspired by "A River Runs Through It" to teaching himself fly fishing without YouTube tutorials, demonstrating the persistence that defines his approach to life. From his unwavering devotion to brook trout ("All hail the Brook Trout Church!") to the touching stories of fishing adventures with his teenage son in British Columbia, Thomas blends humor with profound insights about finding joy in imperfection.
The conversation takes meaningful turns as Thomas candidly discusses mental health challenges and how fly fishing provides therapeutic escape. His creative side shines through stories of designing logos, creating popular fishing stickers, and writing poetry—all while balancing a career in high-tech security software. Practical fishing tips emerge too, especially about his favorite smallmouth bass river in Ottawa with crystal-clear water and perfect wading conditions for summer evenings. Throughout the episode, Thomas's infectious laugh and irreverent humor (including his amusing distrust of "Euro nymphing" and Brad Pitt's shadow casting) remind us that fishing is as much about laughter as it is about catching fish.
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Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.comGet your copy of the GFW Book List at https://www.guysfishingweekend.com/booksFind us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guysfishingweekend
This week, master fly tier Doug Oatman joins us to share his six-decade journey that began with watching grasshoppers on his family's lake and evolved into creating museum-worthy Atlantic salmon flies. While known for his artistic salmon patterns, Doug's true genius lies in innovative yet simple designs, like his foam frog series and "Doug's Red Tube" that landed him a 30-inch Taneycomo rainbow. He reveals Kansas City's hidden fishing gems, from Lexington Lake's sunfish paradise to prime smallmouth waters just 45 minutes away.
Beyond the vise, Doug opens up about learning to balance his passion for fishing with family life, now finding his greatest joy in teaching his granddaughter to cast. His involvement with Project Healing Waters and community initiatives demonstrates his belief that giving back is as essential as any fishing technique.
This episode is a hoot!
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Kurt Shaffer is the founder of PGH Fly Co, a custom fly-tying business born from his lifelong passion for fishing and creativity. Starting with classic patterns and moving toward his own innovative designs, Kurt has developed a reputation for crafting unique, high-quality flies—sometimes even incorporating fur from his pet rabbits. What began as a small morning project quickly grew into a full-fledged business, serving anglers across the country.
In this episode, Kurt shares his journey from childhood fishing trips in Pennsylvania to launching a successful fly-tying business. He discusses the evolution of his designs, the influence of Pittsburgh’s growing fly fishing scene, and how community and conservation shape his work. We explore the artistry behind fly tying, the challenges of winter fishing for Great Lakes steelhead, and why fly fishing remains one of the most creative and therapeutic pursuits.
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This week, Ed and Reid talk with Kyle Krasky, known on IG as "TheTroutLegend,” to hear his journey in fishing and personal growth. From catching his first panfish at age four to becoming a passionate fly fisherman, Kyle’s story is full of memorable adventures and life lessons. He recounts formative fishing trips with his grandfather, the influence of his father-in-law’s mentorship, and the joy of introducing his children to the sport.
In this episode, Kyle dives into his LLDT philosophy—Listen, Learn, Do, Teach—which shapes his approach to fishing and life. He discusses the importance of community, the accessibility of fly fishing, and how he balances teaching others with his personal passion for the sport. From legendary catches to affordable gear recommendations, Kyle’s insights are sure to resonate with anglers of all levels.
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This week we talk with Tyler Romig, the head fly-fishing guide at La Cabana Fishing Lodge in Chile (https://www.yelchoflyfishing.com). Tyler left his Alaskan roots to build a new life along the shores of Lago Yelcho in Patagonia, Chile. With a deep love for adventure and dreams of chasing bucket list browns, Tyler’s journey took him from steelhead fishing in Alaska’s Kenai River to guiding anglers in one of the world’s most renowned fly-fishing destinations.
In this episode, Tyler shares his remarkable story—from learning to fish with his dad in remote Alaskan lakes to navigating the endless miles of fishable water in Chile. He reflects on the freedom and hardships of guiding, offers practical tips for aspiring adventure anglers, and provides insight into the unique fly-fishing culture of Patagonia.
The conversation covers Tyler’s most unforgettable fishing memories, including an epic steelhead run and strategies for targeting massive brown trout. He also offers advice for those looking to take the leap into guiding or planning their own fishing expedition in South America.
Tune in for a lively, down-to-earth discussion about following dreams, living simply, and staying connected to the wilderness.
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This week, a little something different. We are recapping our “Conversations Between Guests” segment of the show, and recreating the actual community conversation we had throughout the year. It is a fun ride!
Thanks to all the guests who were a part of the show this year. In order of appearance:
Joe Hemelt (Colorado Drifters)
Diogo Deassis and Peter Van De Merwe (Frequent Flyers)
Colten Tidwell (Wild Orca)
Kevin Onsrud (Casting Feathers & Fur)
Ray Cameron (Pop’s Flies)
Joshua Torrez (Afuera Outdoors)
Garret Lesko (Oregon Fly Tying)
Peter Stitcher (Ascent Fly Fishing)
JJ Naico (Down2Fish)
Robert Betts (Cutthroat Fly Shop)
Coltin Gresser (Degenerate Fish Hippies)
Eric Oram (Two Rivers Fly Shop)
Chase Coyle (Slayfest Fishing)
Andrew Todd (Flyathlon)
Grant Powell (Temperance & Penn)
Tom Rosenbauer (Orvis Fly Fishing)
David Coggins (Author of The Believer & The Optimist)
Brian Beach (Fins & Pins)
Kevin Hein (Renewal Counseling)
Mark Walinske (Margo & Lola)
Jennifer Wallace (NYT Best Selling Author of ‘Never Enough’)
Joshua Caldwell (Director of ‘Mending the Line’)
Chris Lyford (Senior Editor of Psychotherapy Networker)
Spence Neubauer (Eagle River Whisky)
David Pitt (KC Flats Co.)
Erik Johnsen (TroutRoutes)
Kyle Bakko (Umpqua Signature Fly Tyer)
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Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.com
Get your copy of the GFW Book List at https://www.guysfishingweekend.com/books
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This week Ed and Reid talk with Kyle Bakko, a fly-tying artist, devoted father, and outdoorsman from Montana. Known for his signature hopper patterns and infectious energy, Kyle shares his inspiring story of creativity, fatherhood, and finding focus through fly tying.
In this episode, Kyle opens up about the challenges of ADHD, his sobriety journey, and how fly fishing became his creative and personal outlet. From childhood adventures with his father to creating memories with his own kids, Kyle reflects on the power of passing down the sport, building community, and living with purpose.
He also talks about guiding for Fishing for the Fight, a powerful cause helping families impacted by cancer, and his dream of fostering a more inclusive fly-fishing community in Montana. With stories that will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe tear up, Kyle’s honesty and passion for the outdoors make this episode one for the books.
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This week Ed and Reid talk with Erik Johnsen, the Community Marketing Manager at TroutRoutes, the leading trout water mapping app designed to help anglers discover and navigate trout streams across the country. In this episode, Erik shares his journey into fly fishing, inspired by family connections and the unique waters of Wisconsin’s Driftless Region. He also discusses his role at Trout Routes, the app’s recent merger with OnX Maps, and its mission to empower anglers while respecting conservation efforts.
Join us as Erik dives into tales of fishing with family, memorable streamer days in Montana, and the balance between tradition and technology in the fly fishing world. Whether it’s sharing tips for scouting new waters, navigating stream access, or fostering a sense of community, Erik’s insights resonate with anglers at all levels.
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This week, Ed and Reid dive into the mailbag, answering listener questions about fishing, friendships, and personal growth. Together, they share heartfelt stories, practical advice, and hilarious mishaps that define their annual Guys Fishing Weekend trips.
From favorite fishing spots like Colorado's Avalanche Creek to a wild misadventure in Wyoming, Ed and Reid explore how they’ve built traditions, faced challenges, and celebrated life’s big and small moments. They also discuss the evolution of their trips—from competitive to collaborative—and provide tips on organizing memorable fishing weekends that foster connection.
The episode features standout moments, including reflections on Ed’s 10 years of sobriety, advice for maintaining friendships, and the funniest mishaps that have kept their trips full of laughter. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking for inspiration to create deeper connections, this episode has something for everyone.
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Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.com
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This Thanksgiving week, we are taking a little time to express what we are thankful for! Our call to action is that you do the same, and make sure you let whomever/whatever you are thankful for know out loud or in a letter.
Have a great Thanksgiving everyone!
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This week we talk with David Pitt, from KC Flats Company, a dedicated fly fishing guide outfitter in the Kansas City and Branson, MO region. In this episode, David dives into the rewarding challenges of being a guide, from carp fishing in Kansas to night fishing for trophy trout. He shares stories of KC Flats Co., a company he helped build to provide unique, saltwater-style experiences for carp fishing, offering locals the chance to train for trips to the saltwater flats.
David reflects on how fishing saved him from life’s stresses and emphasizes the healing power of the water. As a guide with Project Healing Waters, he provides veterans with therapeutic fishing trips and believes strongly in the importance of building communities centered around passion. Listeners can expect insights on mentorship, personal growth, and meaningful friendships formed by time on the water.
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This week, Ed and Reid sit down with Spence Neubauer, co-founder of Eagle River Whiskey in Minturn, Colorado. Spence shares the journey that took him from New England to the Rocky Mountains, from being a stay-at-home dad to starting a whiskey business deeply rooted in fly fishing and building his local community. Spence explores his and his wife’s mission to create a unique "Third Space" at their cozy whisky shop—a place where locals and tourists alike can unwind, connect, and feel at home.
Spence Neubauer is the passionate founder of **Eagle River Whiskey. For more information, you can find him at https://www.erwhisky.com or on Instagram at** https://www.instagram.com/eagleriverwhisky
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Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.com
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This week, Ed and Reid are thrilled to sit down with Chris Lyford, Senior Editor at Psychotherapy Networker and a voice for mental health. In this heartfelt episode, Chris opens up about his journey with male friendship, examining why men often struggle with connection and how societal norms shape these experiences. We also dive deep into the loneliness epidemic and what men can do to navigate this challenge in life.
Chris Lyford is the Senior Editor at Psychotherapy Networker. He wrote a piece titled, ‘In Search of The Great Male Friend’ that focuses on his experience with the male friendship recession we have in society today. For more information on Chris and Psychotherapy Networker visit www.psychotherapynetworker.org to subscribe to their amazing publication.
Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.com
Get your copy of the GFW Book List at https://www.guysfishingweekend.com/books
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Joshua Caldwell is an award-winning director of the movie Mending the Line, a movie focused on the issues veterans face with PTSD, returning home from service and how fly fishing can aid in that healing. For more information on Joshua, and his future projects and fishing escapades, Find him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joshuacaldwelldirector/.
Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.com
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Jennifer Wallace is an award winning author of New York Times best selling book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic - and What We Can Do About It. More information on Jennifer, and the amazing work she is doing, can be found at https://www.jenniferbwallace.com/. You can also connect with her on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jenniferbwallace) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-b-wallace/).
Questions? Comments? Email us at mailbag@guysfishingweekend.com
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This week, Ed and Reid sit down with Mark Walinske, owner and founder of the fly fishing school Margo + Lola in western Wisconsin. Mark shares how his 50-year journey with fly fishing and his entrepreneurial spirit came together to build a school that welcomes new anglers with open arms.
Mark opens up about the connection between fly fishing and well-being, and how today’s wellness industry has it all wrong. Tune in for a conversation filled with laughs, insights into the magic of the Driftless area, and the joy of fly fishing!
Mark Walinske, and the Margo + Lola Fly Fishing School, can be found at www.margolola.com
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This week, Ed and Reid sit down with Kevin Hein, a devoted counselor, family man, and passionate fly fisherman from Colorado. In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Kevin shares his journey from corporate life to counseling, discussing the critical role that nature, faith, and family played in his life. He delves into his love for fly fishing and how it serves as both an escape and a source of mental renewal.
Kevin opens up about the struggles he faced when his sons went through tough times and how leaning on community and faith pulled them through. Tune in to hear Kevin's candid stories about balancing family, life, and passion for the outdoors, with plenty of laughter, life lessons, and fishing tips along the way!
Kevin Hein, MA LPCC can be found at his website www.renewalcounseling.life
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