The Barbless.co Fly Fishing Podcast

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Latest Episodes:

Chasing Giant Stripers: Big Baits and Hard Lessons on the Sacramento River Sep 24, 2026

Show notes

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.

Introduction

Welcome 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 Discussed

Origins 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 Maxstadt

Key Takeaways

Flexibility 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 Items

Experiment 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.

Conclusion

In 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

Lower Yuba River Nature - Like Fish Passage Project Sep 09, 2026

Show notes

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.

Introduction

Welcome 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 Discussed

The Nature-Like Fish Passage Project on the Lower Yuba River
Conservation efforts and their impact on local fisheries
The role of striped bass and their potential threat to native species
Green sturgeon migration and its importance
Stakeholder involvement and public opinion

Important 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." - Frank

Key Takeaways

Conservation 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 Items

Visit 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.

Conclusion

Episode 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 Return... Checking in. Sep 06, 2026

Show notes

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.

Introduction

Welcome 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 Summary

In 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 Discussed

Reasons for the podcast's hiatus and Hogan's personal updates
Upcoming episodes featuring notable guests in the fly fishing community
Conservation efforts and challenges facing the Lower Sacramento River
Collaboration with sponsors and involvement of co-host Chad

Important 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 Takeaways

The 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 Items

Subscribe to The Barbless Podcast and stay tuned for upcoming episodes.
Connect with Hogan Brown on Instagram at @h2flyfishing or via email at hoganbrown@hotmail.com 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.

Conclusion

The 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

Rising on the Fly - Founders Tema and Julia Oct 29, 2023

Show notes

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/))

Introduction

Welcome 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 Discussed

The personal stories of Tema and Julia and their journey with fly fishing
The origins and mission of "Rising to the Fly"
Barriers to entry in the fly fishing world and how the organization aims to overcome them
Partnerships with other organizations like Casting for Recovery
Experiences and insights from their first year running the nonprofit
Future 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 Mitchell

Key Takeaways

Barriers 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 Items

Visit 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.

Conclusion

The 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

Rare Waters - Fly Fishing UnLocked. Aug 09, 2023

Show notes

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)

Introduction

In 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 Discussed

The concept of Rare Waters as the "Airbnb for fly fishing"
The challenges of river access in states like Colorado compared to California
Rare Waters' partnership with landowners to provide affordable fishing access
The environmental and economic benefits for landowners
The future expansion of Rare Waters into new regions and species

Important 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 Austin

Key Takeaways

Innovative 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 Items

Visit 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.

Conclusion

This 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

Capt. Ben Thompson: Trout Preview for the Lower Yuba River Apr 21, 2023

Show notes

Capt. Ben Thompson spends more days guiding the Lower Yuba River than any other guide right now and has been on the river this entire winter and early spring so there is no better person to give an update and forecast for the coming spring and summer of one of Californias most popular, challenging, and productive tailwaters. Check Ben out at [https://www.benthompsonoutdoors.com](https://www.benthompsonoutdoors.com) or [https://www.calbassunion.com](https://www.calbassunion.com)

Introduction

Welcome to Episode 183 of The Barbless Podcast Channel, where host Hogan Brown dives deep into the world of fly fishing with Captain Ben Thompson. Explore the intricacies of fishing on the Lower Yuba River and get a preview of the upcoming trout season.

Key Topics Discussed

Weather and Conditions: Discussion on spring weather patterns and how they affect fishing conditions.
Fishing Techniques: Insights into effective strategies for fishing the Lower Yuba River, including dry fly fishing and the use of hoppers.
River Changes: Observations on how high water years can alter river landscapes and fish behavior.
Bug Activity: The impact of bug hatches on fishing success and fish feeding patterns.
Fishing Locations: Key areas on the Lower Yuba River for successful fishing.
Future Predictions: Expectations for the upcoming trout season and the return of larger fish populations.

Important Quotes

“The bugs are definitely there, and the fish are definitely there too.” - Capt. Ben Thompson“The river changes a lot, and you have to adapt to where the fish are.” - Hogan Brown

Key Takeaways

High water years bring significant changes to river landscapes, creating new fishing opportunities.
Despite high flows, bug populations remain robust, contributing to active fish feeding.
Successful fishing on the Lower Yuba River often involves adapting techniques to current conditions, such as using dry flies and targeting specific water areas.
The upcoming trout season is expected to be promising, with increased fish activity and potential for excellent dry fly fishing.

Action Items

Prepare for the Season: Get ready by stocking up on essential flies and gear for dry fly fishing.
Explore New Areas: Take advantage of changes in the river to discover new fishing spots.
Monitor Conditions: Keep an eye on water levels and bug hatches to time your fishing trips effectively.
Engage with Experts: Consider booking a trip with experienced guides like Capt. Ben Thompson to enhance your fishing experience.

Conclusion

This episode of The Barbless Podcast Channel provides valuable insights into the dynamic world of fly fishing on the Lower Yuba River. As spring unfolds, anglers can look forward to a season of exciting opportunities, with high water levels creating new challenges and rewards. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, these insights will help you make the most of your time on the water.

Full episode page, transcript and guests

Adam Andreini Fisher of Dinosaurs Mar 21, 2023

Show notes

Hogan welcomes Adam Andreini of [https://www.fishadam.com](https://www.fishadam.com) to come on the show and talk about guiding and fishing for Dinosaurs aka Green and White Sturgeon. Adam spends all year as a fishing guide for Stripers, Salmon, Shad, Trout, and Sturgeon on the Lower Sacramento River as WELL as hosting Eco Tours and has been a friend of Hogans for years. While Sturgeon are not top of any fly angler's list they are one of the coolest and most interesting fish in the river that fly anglers never fish for... with fly rods that is. Learn about these fish from and how they interact and live in the Sacramento River. Learn more about adam at [https://www.fishadam.com](https://www.fishadam.com)

Introduction

Welcome to Episode 182 of The Barbless Podcast Channel: "Adam Andreini Fisher of Dinosaurs". In this engaging episode, host Hogan Brown delves into the fascinating world of sturgeon fishing with his guest, Adam Andreini. Together, they explore the life cycle, habits, and the intriguing nature of these ancient fish found in California's waterways.

Key Topics Discussed

The unique characteristics and biology of white and green sturgeon
Adam Andreini’s journey and career in guiding
The sturgeon’s migration patterns and spawning behavior
Challenges and strategies in sturgeon fishing
Conservation efforts and regulations for sturgeon fishing
The impact of environmental changes on sturgeon populations

Important Quotes

"They're like the big game of the river… gentle giants that have survived so much change."
"Sturgeon fishing is a mysterious and intriguing pursuit… it took me about a year to catch my first one."

Key Takeaways

Sturgeon Biology: Sturgeons are ancient fish with no bones, only cartilage, making them unique in the aquatic world.
Migration and Spawning: They migrate up rivers to spawn, requiring fresh water and current, with Chico being a prime spawning ground.
Fishing Techniques: Successful sturgeon fishing involves using a mixture of baits and understanding their feeding patterns.
Conservation: There are strict regulations to protect these fish, including size limits and restrictions on fishing for green sturgeon.
Environmental Impact: Climate and water temperature significantly influence sturgeon behavior and migration.

Action Items

Check local fishing regulations before planning a sturgeon fishing trip.
Consider the environmental impact and practice sustainable fishing methods.
Engage with local conservation efforts to support sturgeon populations.
Explore different baits and techniques to improve sturgeon fishing success.

Conclusion

The Barbless Podcast Channel's episode with Adam Andreini offers an insightful look into the world of sturgeon fishing. With a deep respect for these ancient creatures, Adam shares his knowledge and passion, encouraging listeners to appreciate and protect these fascinating fish. Tune in to learn more about the intricacies of sturgeon fishing and how you can get involved in conservation efforts.

Full episode page, transcript and guests

Derek Rivchin of Low Water Guide Service Phoenix, AZ Mar 02, 2023

Show notes

Hogan welcomes Phoenix Arizona Fly Fishing Guide and Owner of Low Water Outfitters Derek Rivchin to the podcast to discuss why anyone in their right mind would want to be a fly fishing guide in Phoenix AZ... and of course what amounts to all the cool fishing in and outside of Phoenix AZ. From walking canals to polling flats and wading rivers Derek has found it in and around the Phoenix metro area. Learn More Low Water Guides Website ([https://www.lowaterguide.com/](https://www.lowaterguide.com/))

Introduction

Welcome to another engaging episode of The Barbless Podcast Channel hosted by Hogan Brown. In this episode, we dive into the unique world of fly fishing in Phoenix, Arizona, with guest Derek Rivchin of Low Water Guide Service. Discover how Derek navigates the unconventional fishing landscapes of Phoenix and turns challenges into opportunities.

Key Topics Discussed

Fly Fishing in Phoenix, Arizona

Derek shares insights into the intricacies of fly fishing in the desert city of Phoenix, highlighting the unique opportunities the area offers despite common misconceptions.

Canal and Lake Fishing

Explore the innovative techniques used for fishing in Phoenix's canal systems and lakes, including the targeting of grass carp and other species.

Guide Life and Challenges

Derek discusses his journey to becoming a fly fishing guide, the challenges he faced, and how he overcame them by developing new techniques and flies.

Important Quotes

“It's amazing how many people, the more I talk to, the more I realize how many had their mom as the catalyst for the outdoors.” - Hogan Brown“I just started going through the motions of fly fishing and got super addicted to that.” - Derek Rivchin“We don't get destination fishers saying, 'I heard Phoenix is a place to fish.' That's never happened.” - Derek Rivchin

Key Takeaways

Fly Fishing Opportunities: Phoenix, Arizona, offers unique fly fishing opportunities, particularly in the canal systems that are often overlooked.
Innovation in Techniques: Derek has developed innovative techniques such as the swinging method to catch grass carp.
Adapting to the Environment: Understanding the local ecosystem and fish behavior is crucial, especially when dealing with canal cleanups and fish relocation.
Community and Support: Building a supportive network and learning from others, even in a non-traditional fishing location, is essential for growth.

Action Items

Explore the possibility of fly fishing in unconventional locations and discover new techniques tailored to local environments.
Consider visiting Phoenix for a unique fishing experience, leveraging the expertise of guides like Derek Rivchin.
Stay informed about local water management practices, as they can significantly impact fishing conditions.

Conclusion

This episode of The Barbless Podcast Channel offers a fascinating look into the world of fly fishing in Phoenix, Arizona. Derek Rivchin's innovative approach to fishing in canals and lakes showcases the potential for fly fishing in areas that many might overlook. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration for exploring new fishing opportunities.

Full episode page, transcript and guests

James Stone - NCGASA (Nor Cal Guides and Sportsmens Association Director Feb 14, 2023

Show notes

Hogan and James sit down and talk about the state of Nor Cal water storage as well as how the current winter is setting us up for the coming season. Then they get into the state and future of our salmon fisheries. While salmon are not always high on fly angler's list of species they are important to the health of many of our more popular fisheries ie. Trout and Steelhead. As well as being the most politically powerful fish in that the economic impact and angler participation is the highest among fish of concern in our state.

Introduction

Welcome to Episode 180 of The Barbless Podcast Channel, where host Hogan Brown engages in a compelling discussion with James Stone, the Executive Director of the Northern California Guides and Sportsmen’s Association (NCGASA). This episode delves into the complexities of water management, fisheries conservation, and the current state of salmon populations in Northern California.

Key Topics Discussed

Water Management in California: The challenges of managing water resources amidst growing population and agricultural demands.
Salmon Population Collapse: Insight into the alarming decline of the Central Valley salmon populations.
Hatchery Practices: The role of hatcheries in salmon conservation and the controversies around genetic management.
Harvest Management: Understanding the impact of fishing regulations on salmon populations.

Important Quotes

"The reality is we are supporting 41 million people on the backs of three reservoirs."

This quote highlights the immense pressure on California's water resources, emphasizing the need for sustainable management.

"Salmon are the canary in the coal mine; if they're doing well, it means the whole ecosystem is thriving."

James Stone underscores the importance of salmon as an indicator of environmental health.

Key Takeaways

Water Storage Limitations: Current water infrastructure was designed for a much smaller population, creating a significant supply-demand imbalance.
Single Species Management: Focusing solely on one species, like the winter run salmon, has led to the neglect of other salmon runs.
Hatchery Controversies: The declining salmon populations cannot be solely blamed on hatcheries, as water management plays a larger role.
Harvest Regulation: Effective management of salmon harvests is crucial to ensure future generations can enjoy these fisheries.

Action Items

Advocate for comprehensive water management policies that address the needs of both human populations and wildlife.
Support conservation efforts focused on restoring and maintaining diverse salmon populations.
Engage with local and state representatives to push for more sustainable agricultural practices.

Conclusion

Episode 180 of The Barbless Podcast Channel provides a deep dive into the current challenges facing Northern California's fisheries. As Hogan Brown and James Stone discuss, the future of salmon and other species hinges on balanced water management, effective hatchery practices, and regulated harvests. By understanding these complexities, listeners can better advocate for the preservation of these vital natural resources.

Full episode page, transcript and guests

Dominic "Dom" Bruno microchip, glass lens, Magician of Wade Deep Media Aug 29, 2022

Show notes

You may not know Dom, but I am sure you have watched or seen his work. If you have watched any of the Loon Outdoors fly tying videos, feature films, or looked at Loon Outdoors social media you have seen his work as well as many other outdoor and lifestyle brands Instagram, YouTube, or websites. His Tools of the Trade series and Different Places Different Fish series push story telling into new realms talking about the people and places that are the back bone of fly fishing that fly under radar. Listen as Hogan talks fishing, making videos, and how story telling translates to the moving picture. @dominicanthonybruno [https://www.youtube.com/c/LoonOutdoors](https://www.youtube.com/c/LoonOutdoors)

Introduction

Welcome to Episode 179 of The Barbless Podcast Channel, where host Hogan Brown delves into the captivating world of fly fishing with Dominic "Dom" Bruno, a videographer and photographer at Wade Deep Media. This episode explores the art of storytelling through video, the diverse opportunities in fly fishing, and the innovation within the industry.

Key Topics Discussed

The evolution of fly fishing media and the importance of storytelling
Dominic's journey as a self-taught filmmaker
Exploration of urban fishing opportunities in Phoenix, Arizona
The significance of fishing in native habitats, focusing on smallmouth bass in Alabama and Tennessee
The impact of social media on the fly fishing industry

Important Quotes

"I think just being able to tell a deeper story gets people more immersed into the story that you're trying to tell and is more motivating to get people out there and have those same experiences." - Dominic Bruno"You can't really force life to happen. It's a lot that gets left on the cutting room floor." - Dominic Bruno

Key Takeaways

Storytelling is crucial in engaging audiences and promoting conservation efforts through fly fishing media.
Urban environments, such as Phoenix, Arizona, offer unique fishing opportunities that challenge traditional perceptions of the sport.
Native habitats provide a richer and more authentic fishing experience, exemplified by smallmouth bass fishing in Alabama and Tennessee.
With the democratization of technology, aspiring filmmakers can learn and excel in the craft without formal education.

Action Items

Explore local urban fishing opportunities and consider alternative species to target.
Utilize online resources like YouTube to learn new skills in fly fishing and filmmaking.
Embrace storytelling in personal fishing experiences to inspire others and promote conservation.

Conclusion

Episode 179 of The Barbless Podcast Channel offers an insightful look into the dynamic world of fly fishing through the lens of storytelling and media. Dominic Bruno's experiences highlight the vast opportunities within the sport, urging listeners to explore diverse fishing environments and engage with the community through innovative media.

Stay tuned for the next chapters of the "Different Fish Different Places" series to uncover more remarkable fishing stories and conservation efforts.

Full episode page, transcript and guests

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