Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/696

Presented by: Pescador on the Fly, Heated Core, TroutRoutes, Jackson Hole Fly Company

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Alyx Parks, host at the New Fly Fisher, joins us as we talk all about fly fishing Saskatchewan, Canada. We delve into the region's finest lodges, renowned for offering exceptional fishing opportunities for pike, grayling, and other intriguing species. Alyx brings her wealth of experience from traveling with the New Fly Fisher, revealing invaluable tips for catching grayling, including the art of skittering and the importance of minding your backcast.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, this conversation with Alyx Parks is sure to inspire your next trip to the breathtaking landscapes of Saskatchewan. Don’t miss out—tune in and let Alyx guide you through a fly fishing paradise.

Episode Chapters with Alyx Parks on Fly Fishing Saskatchewan.

8:38 - Alyx shares the story of how she became a host on The New Fly Fisher. The journey began unexpectedly when her father, Jeff Parks, also a host on the show, invited her to join a filming trip to Scott Lake Lodge in Northern Saskatchewan. That's when she delivered a memorable segment where she coined the phrase "hot little bug," which resonated with viewers.

15:54 - We get into her fishing trip in Saskatchewan, Canada. She recounts experiences at the Cree River Lodge and Scott Lake Lodge, highlighting their incredible guides and the excellent pike fishing opportunities.

23:02 - Alyx shares her first experience fishing for Arctic grayling at Cree, accompanied by Jenna McKeown, Colin McKeown's daughter and a seasoned fisher. Alyx was amazed by the grayling's power and agility, and she described it as a uniquely thrilling experience.

32:28 - Alyx tells us about Scott Lake Lodge. She describes it as a "bucket list" destination, noting that many visitors save for years to experience it. The lodge offers a range of fishing opportunities, with pike and lake trout being the main species, but also includes grayling and walleye. She also shares personal fishing experiences, including catching large pike with her father.

39:28 - She shares her experience filming a segment about pike fishing, emphasizing the importance of keeping the fly in the water and maintaining movement to attract pike. She recounted a memorable moment where a 47-inch pike nearly hit her co-host Jenna, capturing the excitement and unpredictability of fishing.

52:57 - Alyx shares her memorable experience fishing on the Bow River with Nick Schlachter of Wapiti Sports & Outfitters. She also recounts an encounter with grizzly bears in the area, including a notable bear known as "the boss," emphasizing the wildlife presence in the region.

56:32 - She mentions an episode where her father traveled to Northern Manitoba to explore the famed Gods River for big brook trout.

58:07 - Alyx gives valuable tips for going on a fishing trip to Northern Canada. She recommends bringing stuff such as fleece, puffer jacket, wading jacket, and wet bag.

1:01:09 - We get into podcasts. Alyx prefers podcasts over music, finding them less distracting and more engaging. She likes true crime podcasts and recommends one with the title "Tooth & Claw: True Stories of Animal Attacks," which is hosted by a bear biologist and his friends.

1:03:24 - We get into hockey and golf. Alyx shares her renewed interest in golf, noting the similarities between golf and fly fishing. Her father, a former exceptional golfer turned fly fishing guide, often uses golf analogies when teaching clients. He helps clients improve their casting skills by comparing them to lowering a golf handicap, making the learning process relatable and enjoyable.

1:08:22 - Alyx discusses a significant injury that kept her from fishing for two years and shares insights for people dealing with similar struggles. She emphasizes the importance of visualization in fishing, suggesting that imagining each step of the process—from positioning oneself to presenting the fly—can improve one's fishing skills.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/696

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/695

Presented By: Yellowstone Teton Territory

Today on Traveled, Steve Hyde of the Hyde Drift Boats family and Eagle Ridge Ranch manager shares his best tips for fly fishing Sheridan Lake and exploring nearby Spring Creek. Find out how to make the most of summer and winter activities in these areas.

Plus, hear about how Steve and his dad founded Hyde Drift Boats in their garage and the innovations that set their boats apart.

Show Notes with Steve Hyde on Fly Fishing Sheridan Lake

02:23 - We start off talking about how things are going at Eagle Ridge Ranch during this "in-between" season. Steve says they do a lot of ice fishing and managing cabins for rent year-round. We also talk about big game hunting opportunities at Eagle Ridge Ranch.

5:17 - Sheridan Lake is located in a remote area between Kilgore and Island Park, surrounded by private and public lands. The lake benefits from powerful springs, which help maintain the temperature and support aquatic life. Steve says grizzly encounters are common in the area, which adds a bit of excitement.

07:47 - The owner of Eagle Ridge Ranch is Frank VanderSloot, the founder of Melaleuca. There are 12 cabins on the ranch that can sleep anywhere from 2 to 20 people.

Fishing at the Eagle Ridge Ranch

9:42 - There are seven miles of Spring Creek and the lake to fish. You can find rainbow trout, Snake River cutthroat trout, and brook trout in the lake. Native chubfish are also in the system, though they're not highly regarded.

10:40 - Steve says they only allow up to 12 people daily to ensure a positive visitor experience. Groups of up to 20 can sometimes be accommodated, but they try not to mix groups to keep the area peaceful.

Watch this YouTube video about Eagle Ridge Ranch
: https://youtu.be/Z05KwQqWb5U?si=L6LKG2AZ3X9Pjbos

Hyde Drift Boats

14:15 - We dive into how Steve and his dad started making driftboats in their garage back in the early '80s. What began as a hobby turned into Hyde Drift Boats. Steve talks about how the boat design evolved over the years.

19:36 - Steve is the director of Wildlife Management for all of Frank's properties in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Utah. He also works closely with local fish and game agencies to maintain the land and support wildlife in the area.

Other Activities at Eagle Ridge Ranch

24:36 - The Eagle Ridge Ranch is great for year-round outdoor activities. People can enjoy fishing, hunting, ATV riding in summer, and snowmobiling in winter. There’s also a lava bed system called Craters of the Moon just south of the ranch.

Fly Fishing at Sheridan Lake: What You Need to Know

28:45 - Sheridan Lake is a fly-fishing-only, catch-and-release spot. The peak season runs from May to October, but you can still find spots throughout the year. Steve says the lake has all kinds of hatches throughout the year.

3:15 - Steve talks about the lakes and rivers around Eagle Ridge Ranch. The main lakes are Island Park Reservoir and Henry's Lake, but there are also many rivers in the area.

Eagle Ridge Ranch offers a premium fishing experience at Sheridan Lake. Watch this video to learn more:

https://youtu.be/wAsF86xnK2E?si=YkzFY7k5G3ahWwJp

45:43 - Here are some things to consider before your trip:

Pack for all weather conditions: A sudden rainstorm can drop temperatures quickly, so you better be prepared.

Safety first: Let someone know where you're going or have someone with you.

Gear up right: Bring a 5 to 7-weight rod. Use the biggest tippet you can (4X), but switch to 5X if the fish get picky.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/695