756 | Fly Fishing Seattle with Dave McCoy – Skagit Steelhead, Spey Casting, and Patagonia Conservation

Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

#756 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/756

Presented By: FishHound Expeditions, Fish The Fly, On DeMark Lodge, Mountain Waters Resort

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

Would you guide steelhead anglers through Washington's wild rivers, then hop on a flight to Gabon or French Polynesia to chase something completely different—all while pushing the fly fishing industry to care more and do better?

Today we're joined by Dave McCoy, Patagonia Fly Fish ambassador and owner of Emerald Water Anglers. Dave breaks down the real state of steelhead conservation, the overlooked opportunities in warmwater fly fishing, and why swinging flies is more than a method—it’s a mindset. He shares the story of helping launch Patagonia’s Fly Fish social presence, his conversations with Yvon Chouinard, and why guiding should include deeper dialogue—yes, even about politics.

You’ll also hear about his global travel program, from sea-run cutthroat in Seattle to tarpon in rivers and bonefish in the Bahamas. Plus, Dave explains why your first fly fishing trip shouldn't always be for trout, how Patagonia is rethinking wader design, and how listening—really listening—might just save the sport.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/756