Join renowned angler April Vokey for intimate, face-to-face conversations with fly fishing’s most fascinating voices. Each episode blends storytelling and practical wisdom—covering everything from steelhead conservation and fly tying to musky, trout, travel, and the culture of angling. With her honest and behind-the-scenes approach, April uncovers stories rarely shared in public, giving you insights and inspiration you can carry back to the water. Come listen in and discover a side of fly fishing you won’t find anywhere else. An Anchored Outdoors production.
Anchored Podcast Ep. 288: Jesse Males and Koji Sumalde on The Future of Fly Fishing Films
Today I'm joined by filmmakers Jesse Males and Koji Sumalde, the creative duo behind some of the most cinematic storytelling in fly fishing today. Together, they've built a reputation for capturing the people, places, and moments that make our sport so compelling—from remote steelhead rivers to Florida's Nature Coast. In this episode, we talk about their journey into filmmaking, the realities of working in outdoor media, what makes a great story, and the behind-the-scenes adventures that come with chasing it. I hope you enjoy this conversation. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 287: The Lost Art of Hand-Tied Flies with Adrian Cortes
In this episode of Anchored, I’m joined by Adrian Cortes, a passionate steelheader, hand fly tyer, and critical care nurse whose approach to fly fishing is as thoughtful as it is unconventional. Born in the Philippines and now based in the Pacific Northwest, Adrian has become known for tying intricate flies entirely by hand—without a vise—and for his deep appreciation of traditional steelhead fishing, bamboo rods, and the history of the craft. In this conversation, we dive into his journey, his philosophy, and why slowing down might just make us better anglers. I hope you enjoy this one. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 286: Mike Lawson, Fifty Years on the Henry’s Fork
In this episode, I sit down with Mike Lawson — a legendary guide, fly tyer, educator, and one of the founding forces behind Henry’s Fork Anglers. What began in the early 1970s as a young schoolteacher tying flies at the kitchen table with his wife Sheralee eventually grew into one of the most iconic fly fishing businesses in the world. Mike shares the story of building Henry’s Fork Anglers from the ground up — the lean early years, the friendships and mentors that shaped him, the explosion of fly fishing after A River Runs Through It, and the deep family roots behind a business that has now spanned nearly fifty years. We talk about guiding, fly tying, loyalty, legacy, and what it really means to dedicate your life to rivers, people, and the craft of fly fishing. This conversation is thoughtful, nostalgic, and full of hard-earned wisdom from someone who helped shape modern fly fishing as we know it. You may have noticed me wearing Skwala fishing apparel for the past year or so, and I gotta say, I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve tried. I love the way they design gear. They manage to strike a perfect balance between durable and functional but also comfortable and mobile. I stay warm and dry, but never feel cramped or restricted when I’m wading, casting, or rowing. I’ve enjoyed fishing in their apparel so much, I recently joined their team as an ambassador. We’ve even been working together on ways to translate their expertise with technical fly fishing apparel into gear that’s specifically designed for women, and I’m really excited about the progress we’ve made. If you haven’t already done so, go check them out at skwalafishing.com and see what they’re all about. Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 285: Jonathan Antunez, What Modern Anglers Forgot
In this episode, I’m joined by Jonathan Antunez — a fly tyer, educator, and angler known for his deep knowledge of fixed-line fly fishing techniques, from Tenkara to Euro nymphing and beyond. What started as a trip to Yellowstone quickly turned into an obsession with the artistry, history, and mechanics behind fly fishing, eventually leading Jonathan down a path of studying centuries-old techniques and adapting them to modern waters. We talk about the origins of fixed-line fishing, the forgotten traditions that shaped modern fly fishing, how subtle fly movement can change everything, and why Jonathan believes many anglers have lost touch with the deeper connection between rod, line, and fly. This one gets technical, historical, and surprisingly philosophical — and I think you’re going to enjoy it. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 284: Ben Sippola on Wading in Jandals
Ben Sippola — also known as Benny-Sip—is a New Zealand-based writer whose work is rooted in rivers, fly fishing, and the spaces in between. A former professional footballer turned coach, he’s now the author of books like Wading in Jandals and A River Runs, and a regular contributor to The Fly Fish Journal. These days, he’s focused on writing raw, poetic prose that explores nature, identity, and what it means to pay attention. In this episode, we hear his story. You may have noticed me wearing Skwala fishing apparel for the past year or so, and I gotta say, I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve tried. I love the way they design gear. They manage to strike a perfect balance between durable and functional but also comfortable and mobile. I stay warm and dry, but never feel cramped or restricted when I’m wading, casting, or rowing. I’ve enjoyed fishing in their apparel so much, I recently joined their team as an ambassador. We’ve even been working together on ways to translate their expertise with technical fly fishing apparel into gear that’s specifically designed for women, and I’m really excited about the progress we’ve made. If you haven’t already done so, go check them out at skwalafishing.com and see what they’re all about. Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 283: April Vokey on Being Human
In this episode of Anchored, we’re doing something a little different. I was recently a guest on the Outside podcast with PaddyO where we discussed some of the more… umm, unconventional aspects of fishing. I hope you enjoy our conversation. Find more from Paddy on iTunes, Spotify, or https://www.outsideonline.com/ You may have noticed me wearing Skwala fishing apparel for the past year or so, and I gotta say, I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve tried. I love the way they design gear. They manage to strike a perfect balance between durable and functional but also comfortable and mobile. I stay warm and dry, but never feel cramped or restricted when I’m wading, casting, or rowing. I’ve enjoyed fishing in their apparel so much, I recently joined their team as an ambassador. We’ve even been working together on ways to translate their expertise with technical fly fishing apparel into gear that’s specifically designed for women, and I’m really excited about the progress we’ve made. If you haven’t already done so, go check them out at skwalafishing.com and see what they’re all about. Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 282: Phil Monahan on a Quick Start Guide to Fly Fishing
Phil Monahan is a longtime fly-fishing writer, editor, and educator. Phil has spent years translating complex techniques — everything from trout behaviour to knot systems and presentation strategies — into practical, approachable instruction for anglers at every level. An experienced angler, Phil has fished widely across North America and brings a deep appreciation for rivers, wild fish, and the traditions that surround the sport. In this episode of Anchored, we talk about his latest book, what percent of anglers stick with it once they get started, finding work in the fly fishing industry, and much more. You may have noticed me wearing Skwala fishing apparel for the past year or so, and I gotta say, I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve tried. I love the way they design gear. They manage to strike a perfect balance between durable and functional but also comfortable and mobile. I stay warm and dry, but never feel cramped or restricted when I’m wading, casting, or rowing. I’ve enjoyed fishing in their apparel so much, I recently joined their team as an ambassador. We’ve even been working together on ways to translate their expertise with technical fly fishing apparel into gear that’s specifically designed for women, and I’m really excited about the progress we’ve made. If you haven’t already done so, go check them out at skwalafishing.com and see what they’re all about. Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 281: Spencer Siem — Guardians of the Feather
Spencer Siem is a New Mexico–based fly fishing guide known for his deep knowledge of Southwestern waters and his connection to the Feather Thief legacy. Blending technical precision with a reverence for fly-tying history, Spencer approaches guiding as both craft and storytelling. His work reflects a respect for tradition, a curiosity for innovation, and a quiet dedication to passing the culture of fly fishing forward. In this episode of Anchored, we learn more about his story. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 280: Anchored Podcast Ep. 280: Mikael Frödin on Why You Should Care About Atlantic Salmon
Mikael Frödin is a renowned fly fisherman, innovator, and fly designer whose influence spans decades of modern salmon and trout fishing. Best known for his pioneering work with tube flies and his analytical approach to fish behaviour, Frödin blends Scandinavian tradition with relentless experimentation. His work—on the water, in writing, and through design—has helped shape how anglers around the world think about presentation, efficiency, and respect for wild fish. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 279: Clark “Cheech” Pierce on Innovation and Fly Fish Food
Clark “Cheech” Pierce is a fly tyer, educator, and co-founder of Fly Fish Food, one of the most influential fly-tying brands in the industry. Known for his creative patterns, clear instruction, and trademark sense of humour, Cheech has helped modernize fly tying for a new generation of anglers. His YouTube tutorials, product designs, and hands-on teaching have made him a go-to resource for tiers looking to sharpen their skills or explore innovative materials. In this episode of Anchored, we talk shop on materials, innovation, and the state of fly tying today, but we also get a glimpse into Cheech’s humour, hustle, and the passion that fuels everything he does. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 278: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started Fly Fishing
This episode of Anchored is a little different. I recorded it while in steelhead camp this year, and my hope is that you’ll share it with someone in your life who’s thinking about getting into fly fishing but doesn’t know where to start. It’s based on an ebook I wrote a few years ago, so I’ve included an easy link to that book in the description. No sign-ups or email addresses required — just click and enjoy. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KfPE4LLt9pKT1WB4bEMq5mSpBYbuKz_x/view Anchored listeners also get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 277: Alberta’s Trout Trust on Protecting Fisheries and Tackling Fish Entrainment
Alberta’s Trout Trust is a grassroots group dedicated to protecting the province’s trout and fisheries. From tackling fish losses in irrigation canals to advocating for habitat protection and angler education, the Trust works to ensure healthy waters and sustainable fishing for generations to come. In this episode of Anchored, we discuss the challenges facing Alberta’s fisheries, and how anglers, advocates, and conservationists are working together to tackle issues like fish entrainment and habitat protection. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 276: Diane Michelin on Painting, Wild Places, and Inspiration
Diane Michelin is a Canadian watercolour artist whose work is deeply rooted in the spirit and subtleties of fly fishing. Born in Montreal, she now lives on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Diane draws inspiration from the landscape, water, wildlife, flies, rods and reels, and the human moments that make up the fly-fishing experience. Over her career, she has built a global presence, with her work housed in private collections, fishing lodges, and museums around the world. In this episode of Anchored, Diane offers a personal glimpse into her life and artistic journey, sharing how rivers and reels became her canvas, and how she continues to capture the soul of angling through brush and watercolour. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 275: James Christmas on the Seychelles, South Africa, the NYAP and Giving Back
James Christmas is an accomplished fishing guide whose career has taken him from the remote flats of the Seychelles to destinations across the globe. Known for his skill in putting anglers onto everything from bonefish to giant trevally, James combines deep technical knowledge with an easygoing guiding style that keeps clients coming back. Alongside his guiding, he has designed influential flies such as the NYAP (Not Your Average Popper), patterns now used by anglers worldwide. Link for Catherine: https://givesendgo.com/Giveasmile?utm_source=sharelink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=Giveasmile Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 274: In the Current with Brian Silvey
Brian Silvey is a legendary Oregon guide and fly designer who has guided 40 years on the Deschutes and Sandy Rivers. Known for his innovative patterns, he’s guided generations of anglers while sharing a lifetime of knowledge about the rivers, fish, and techniques that define Northwest fly fishing. In this episode of Anchored, he joins us to do just that. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 273: Nick Lyons, A Century of Influence
Nick Lyons is a renowned fly fisher, author, and publisher whose influence has shaped the landscape of modern angling literature. A former professor of English at Hunter College, Lyons left academia to pursue his passion for writing and publishing, founding Lyons Press—a company that became one of the most respected publishers of outdoor and sporting books. As the author of numerous beloved titles, including Spring Creek and The Seasonable Angler, Lyons brought poetic introspection and literary quality to the world of fly fishing. His work is celebrated for its wit, humility, and deep reverence for nature, inspiring generations of anglers and writers alike. Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/ Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 272: Jon Gluck — An Exercise in Uncertainty
Jon Gluck is a celebrated writer, editor, and advocate whose two-decade journey with multiple myeloma forms the deeply personal backbone of his memoir, An Exercise in Uncertainty: A Memoir of Illness and Hope. Jon spent ten years as Deputy Editor at New York magazine, later serving as Managing Editor of Vogue, and in 2025 he became a Senior Editor for Fast Company. Jon’s story is one of perseverance, perspective, and purpose—both as an accomplished editor in the cultural world and as an individual reconciling creativity, caregiving, and chronic illness. In this episode of Anchored, he shares his story… one I’m hoping many of you will find inspiring. This episode of Anchored is brought to you by Bear Mattress. If you’ve been meaning to upgrade your mattress, now’s the time. Go to bearmattress.com and use promo code ANCHORED at checkout to get 40% off sitewide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 271: From the West Wing to the Riverbank: Rahm Emanuel on Fly Fishing and Public Life
Rahm Emanuel is an American diplomat, politician, and former White House Chief of Staff. He served as the United States Ambassador to Japan, appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021. Rahm previously held office as the Mayor of Chicago from 2011 to 2019 and was a senior advisor to President Bill Clinton before serving as a U.S. Congressman from Illinois. Outside of public service, Rahm is a dedicated fly angler who finds solace and clarity on the water. Fly fishing has long been one of his favorite pastimes—a balance to the intensity of his professional life and a testament to his appreciation for patience, nature, and precision. In this episode of Anchored, we learn more about his story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 270: Lines, Water, and Wilderness: A Conversation with Bob White
Bob White is a celebrated artist and former fishing guide known for his evocative fly fishing and wingshooting artwork. With a background in guiding across Alaska and South America, his paintings capture the quiet moments and emotional essence of the sporting life. A longtime illustrator for writers like John Gierach, Bob’s work has appeared in Gray’s Sporting Journal, Fly Rod & Reel, and more. In this episode of Anchored, Bob shares his humble beginnings, and much, much more. This episode of Anchored is brought to you by Bear Mattress. If you’ve been meaning to upgrade your mattress, now’s the time. Go to bearmattress.com and use promo code ANCHORED at checkout to get 40% off sitewide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anchored Podcast Ep. 269: Mikey Wier, From Soulfish to CalTrout
Mikey Wier is a lifelong angler, filmmaker, and conservationist based in California. Raised in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Mikey has spent decades exploring and documenting the wild waters of the American West. A passionate fly fisher and former professional snowboarder, he’s best known for his award-winning fly fishing films, including Soulfish and Fish Eye Films, which helped shape the modern fly-fishing film scene. Mikey currently works with California Trout, where he combines his storytelling skills and on-the-water knowledge to promote coldwater conservation across the state. In this episode of Anchored, we go all the way to the very beginning to hear how he got his start. This episode of Anchored is brought to you by Bear Mattress. Go to bearmattress.com and use promo code ANCHORED at checkout to get 40% off sitewide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Observed July 30, 2026.
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