WAYPOINTS Fly Fishing Podcast - with Jim Klug

Latest Episodes:

Episode 78 - CRAIG MATHEWS - A Life on the Waters of Yellowstone Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug welcomes one of the most respected and impactful voices in the world of fly fishing — Craig Mathews. Known widely as the founder and former owner of Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone, Montana, Craig has spent decades immersed in the rivers, tributaries, and backcountry waters of Yellowstone National Park and the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. A former Chief of Police turned conservationist, fly shop owner, author, and advocate, Craig’s journey is as remarkable as the landscape he’s dedicated his life to protecting. With a career rooted in wild trout, groundbreaking fly design, and environmental stewardship, Craig reflects on his early years in the Park, the founding and rise of his iconic fly shop, and the countless innovations and conservation efforts that have defined his legacy.

Jim and Craig dive into an expansive conversation covering everything from the challenges of launching a fly shop in the 1980s to the evolution of Yellowstone’s trout populations and the gear that Craig still swears by. They discuss the origins of legendary fly patterns, Craig’s early trips to Belize when it was still British Honduras, and his central role in the founding of 1% for the Planet. Craig shares firsthand stories of protecting public access at Three Dollar Bridge, restoring native trout, and why he believes anglers today must take responsibility - and step up - when it comes to protecting the waters they love. Whether you’re a seasoned Yellowstone veteran or planning your first visit, this episode is full of hard-earned wisdom, humor, and inspiration from one of the true giants of the sport.

Waypoints is brought to you by Patagonia
To bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving.
For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
- Follow us on Instagram
- Follow us on Facebook
- Check out our YouTube Page
- View the official Yellow Dog w...

Episode 77 - BIBO JAYNE - Fishing the Flats of South Caicos in the Turks & Caicos Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

On this episode of the Waypoints podcast, we head to the remote and spectacular flats of South Caicos in the Turks and Caicos Islands to sit down with longtime outfitter and flats fishing pioneer Bibo Jayne. Known for his decades of experience exploring and guiding the waters of “Big South,” Bibo has helped put this lesser-known destination on the map for serious saltwater anglers. In this in-depth conversation, listeners will get a firsthand look at the evolution of fly fishing on South Caicos, from Bibo’s early days exploring the fishery with an airboat to his newest angling partnership with the recently-opened Salterra Resort.

Throughout the episode, Waypoints host Jim Klug and Bibo discuss everything from travel logistics and ideal gear setups to seasonal fishing conditions, species diversity, and what makes the bonefish of South Caicos truly special. Bibo also shares his personal journey, conservation philosophy, and the vision behind his guiding operation - South Caicos Flyfishing. Whether you’re planning your next saltwater adventure or simply want to learn more about an exciting and unspoiled fishery in the Caribbean, this episode delivers a deep dive into what makes South Caicos such a unique and rewarding destination.

Episode 76 - BRIAN O'KEEFE, BRYAN GREGSON & JIM KLUG - A List of 30 Names Every Angler Should Know: Legendary Personalities Who Have Shaped The Sport of Flyfishing May 26, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

This is a fun one! In this special episode of Waypoints, Jim Klug is joined by longtime friends and industry legends Brian O’Keefe and Bryan Gregson for a lively and insightful conversation that dives deep into the roots and the history of flyfishing. What started as a late-night, beer-fueled conversation at a recent consumer show gathering in Denver quickly turned into a bigger realization: many of today’s younger anglers — even those who live and breathe the sport — have little to no knowledge of the icons and pioneers who laid the foundation for modern flyfishing. So, we decided to do something about it.

This episode was created as a tribute and a history lesson — a fun, freewheeling discussion that shines a light on 30 legendary figures who helped shape the sport as we know it. From influential authors and pioneering guides to gear innovators, conservationists, and destination fishing trailblazers, this episode covers a wide spectrum of personalities who left an undeniable mark on flyfishing during the 20th century. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or newer to the game, this one is both entertaining and educational — a must-listen for anyone who cares about the history, evolution, and culture of our sport.

Episode 75 - JIM OLSON & ERIC THORSON – The Current State of the Big Hole River and the Fisheries of Southwest Montana May 19, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

In this episode of Waypoints, we return to the heart of one of the most important — and complex — conservation stories in the world of flyfishing: the state of Montana’s Big Hole and the rivers of southwest Montana. Nearly two years after the New York Times released an article focusing on declining fish populations throughout the region, recent data from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks suggests that there may be signs of hope and recovery for wild trout. But with mixed messages, differing perspectives, and strong emotions still swirling throughout the guide, outfitting, and recreational angling communities, the real story is far from simple. Joined by Jim Olsen – Fisheries Biologist for Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks in the Big Hole River basin – and by Eric Thorson – co-owner of Sunrise Fly Shop in Melrose, Montana – host Jim Klug digs into the facts, revisits the concerns, and examines what’s really going on beneath the surface of these legendary waters.

Why should this topic matter to anglers from outside of Montana and across the country? Because what happens in the Big Hole doesn’t stay in the Big Hole. These rivers are ground zero for a larger conversation about climate change, water use, fishing pressure, wild trout resilience, and the future of angling in the American West. Whether you’ve fished these waters for decades, or plan to someday cast a line in Montana, this episode offers critical insight into how science, community, and conservation are colliding in real time — and what that means for the future of wild trout.

Episode 74 - BRYANT DUNN - Part 2 of 2 - Fly Fishing Christmas Island: What to Expect, How to Prepare, and an In-Depth Conversation About the Fishery May 05, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

In this second episode of our two-part Christmas Island series, Waypoints shifts the focus from the history and angling evolution of the atoll to hands-on fishing specifics. Host Jim Klug continues his conversation with Bryant Dunn of Christmas Island Lodge, diving deep into the angling experience itself. They address and answer the most common questions from anglers and travelers — from navigating the atoll’s massive, diverse flats to targeting bonefish, giant trevally, triggerfish, and other prized species. They also discuss gear recommendations, fly selection, travel logistics, and how the remoteness of Christmas Island shapes both the fishing and the overall adventure.

Whether you’re planning your first visit to the atoll or dreaming of a return trip at some point in the future, this episode delivers an inside look at what it takes to succeed on the flats of Kiritimati. Bryant and Jim share expert tips on preparing for the conditions, working effectively with local guides, and maximizing every opportunity in one of saltwater flyfishing’s most legendary settings. Packed with helpful advice, destination insight, and deep local knowledge, this conversation is the ultimate guide to gearing up, traveling smart, and making the most of a trip to Christmas Island.

Episode 73 - BRYANT DUNN - Part I of 2 - Fly Fishing Christmas Island: An In-Depth Conversation About One of Flyfishing's Most Iconic Destinations Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

In this first episode of a special two-part series, Waypoints heads to the heart of the Central Pacific to explore one of the most legendary destinations in saltwater fly fishing — Christmas Island. Host Jim Klug is joined by Bryant Dunn of Christmas Island Lodge for a deep dive into the rich history of the atoll, the evolution of its world-renowned fishery, and why this remote destination continues to captivate anglers from around the globe. Together, they unpack the fascinating backstory of Kiritimati — from its early Polynesian visitors and strategic wartime role to its emergence as a top-tier flyfishing hotspot.

Listeners can expect an informative and detailed conversation that brings to life the story behind Christmas Island’s rise as a must-visit destination. Bryant and Jim also share insights into the challenges and rewards of running an off-the-grid lodge operation, the role of fly fishing tourism for the local Kiribati economy, and what makes the Christmas Island experience truly unique. Whether you’re planning your first trip to the famous atoll or simply dreaming of casting to bonefish and giant trevally on expansive Pacific flats, this episode sets the stage for an unforgettable look at one of fly fishing’s most iconic locations (with more to come in Part Two).

Episode 72 - HOWARD CROSTON - The Gear, the Travel, and the Mindset That Define Today’s Global Angler Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

In this episode of Waypoints, host Jim Klug sits down with Howard Croston — Global Brand and Product Manager for House of Hardy — to explore the legacy, innovation, and future of one of the most iconic brands in fly fishing. Howard brings a unique perspective to the conversation —not just as a designer of some of the world’s finest rods and reels, but also as a seasoned world champion angler who has tested gear in some of the most remote and demanding destinations on the planet. Listeners can expect an in-depth discussion on Hardy’s 150-year history, the evolution of fly fishing tackle, and how the demands of travel and destination angling influence equipment design and performance.

Beyond the history, Howard shares invaluable insights into rod and reel innovation, equipment selection for serious destination travel, and his personal experiences fishing everywhere from the chalk streams of England to the saltwater flats of the Indian Ocean. He also reflects on the challenges of designing gear that can stand up to big game species, how competition angling has shaped his approach to performance, and why casting skills and gear choice are critical for success abroad. This episode offers a fascinating look into the gear, the travel, and the mindset that define today’s global angler.

Episode 71 - DAVE PISHKO & SAWYER KEENER - Fly Fishing Alaska’s Legendary Nushagak River Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

In this episode of WAYPOINTS, we journey deep into the heart of Alaska’s remote southwest to explore one of the most legendary rivers in the North – the Nushagak. Known simply as “the Nush,” this 280-mile wilderness river is famous for its massive runs of wild Pacific salmon, thriving populations of leopard rainbow trout, and a setting so remote that it’s only accessible by bush plane or boat. Joining us are Dave Pishko and Sawyer Keener of Outpost on the Nush, a small, wilderness-based camp that delivers unmatched access to the upper river’s most productive stretches. We dive into what makes this river so unique, the camp’s deep history that dates back to 1982, and the challenges (and rewards) of running a truly off-the-grid fly fishing operation. Topics include gear, the guides, the logistics, and the conservation issues surrounding the Bristol Bay region. Whether you’re an Alaska veteran, a trout fanatic, or someone who’s always dreamed of an immersive fly fishing experience in the “Land of the Midnight Sun,” this one’s for you.

Episode 70 - TIM & JOANNE LINEHAN - Flyfishing the Waters of Northern Montana with Linehan Outfitting Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

On this episode of WAYPOINTS, we visit the remote and rugged northwest corner of Montana, home to towering forests, wild rivers, and one of the most untouched fly fishing destinations in the West. Our guests today are Tim and Joanne Linehan, the husband-and-wife team behind Linehan Outfitting, a legendary operation that has spent the past 33 years guiding anglers on the Kootenai River and beyond. From humble beginnings — starting with a single drift boat and a dream in 1992 — Tim and Joanne have built one of the most respected outfitting businesses in the industry, earning accolades such as Orvis Outfitter of the Year and Montana Guide of the Year. In this episode, we’ll hear about their journey from East Coast transplants to Montana fly fishing icons, discuss the magic of the Kootenai River and its native redband rainbows, and explore what it takes to build a lasting legacy in the world of fly fishing. With their operation rooted in conservation, professionalism, and old-school work ethic, the Linehans have created something truly special — an outfitting business that delivers unparalleled fishing, genuine hospitality, and an experience far removed from other crowded waters of the West.

Episode 69 - KRISTJÁN RAFNSSON - Fly Fishing Iceland Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

Ask Us A Question!

On this episode of WAYPOINTS, we venture to the land of fire and ice, where towering volcanoes, glacial rivers, and gin-clear waters create one of the most stunning fly fishing landscapes on Earth. Joining host Jim Klug is Kristján Rafnsson, the founder and CEO of Iceland’s Fish Partner – the country’s premier fly fishing outfitter. What started as a side project for Kristjan more than a decade ago has grown into Iceland’s leading operation, managing 18 rivers, 40 lakes, and multiple full-service lodges. With a huge diversity of waters, Kristjan’s programs offer anglers unparalleled access to Atlantic salmon, sea-run brown trout, Arctic char, and Iceland’s legendary wild browns. In this episode, Kristján shares his journey from guide to entrepreneur, the challenges of running an outfitting business in Iceland’s unique fishing system, and why Iceland’s waters have become a must-visit destination for anglers worldwide. We’ll explore the draw of Iceland’s massive trout, the country’s private fishing lease system, how American anglers have fueled the rise of Iceland’s popularity, and what it takes to plan the perfect fishing adventure in this otherworldly landscape. This episode delivers everything you need to know about fishing, traveling, and experiencing the wild beauty of Iceland.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

WAYPOINTS Fly Fishing Podcast – with Jim Klug

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected