Returning to School

As similar trends play out along the West Coast, it is now more critical than ever to bring attention to the issue of declining salmon and steelhead populations. The Skagit River is School’s start and end, symbolically representing what is happening to all the world’s salmon. The struggles confronting salmon and steelhead in the Skagit drainage are not unique; they are often the result of ambivalence for salmon, wherever they swim.

Adaptation: An Important Message From the Editor

Throughout the past year, with a steelheader’s thorough cast-and-step methodology, I have searched under every rock and crevice for a way to save money and keep the publication sustainable. While it is with sadness that I say we must move on from a quarterly magazine – which I know so many of you look forward to receiving four times a year – I am full of excitement for the next stage in the continuing adaptation of Swing the Fly.

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On the Water with John McMillan

It is early January when I board the ferry crossing the Puget Sound. I’m on my way West to the coast, to the hallowed rivers of the Olympic Peninsula, to catch up with John McMillan and swing a couple runs. The trip is a welcome escape from Seattle’s traffic and high-rise construction projects towering over […]

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What is Trout Spey?

As two-handed Spey casting has exploded in popularity over the last 20 years so, too, has the technology available in the manufacture of two-handed (Spey) rods. This allowed for the development of lighter, more limber rods making two-hand rods no longer restricted in use to larger game fish.  ​ Today, “Trout Spey,” is all the […]

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Spey Equipment Basics

When selecting your first equipment it is best to consult your local Spey shop. Below is some terminology so you have a little background knowledge of what you’re going to need. Equipment Terminology Spey Rod -designed for Spey casting. They can range from about 11′ up to over 20′! They feature a top and bottom grip to […]