In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we venture far from the Southeast to the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska, where Mitch Wisniewski, a North Carolina guide and summer manager of the Unalakleet River Lodge, shares the magic of this extraordinary destination. Mitch takes us on a journey through his personal connection to the lodge, the vibrant fishing opportunities, and the unique experiences that make the Unalakleet River Lodge a bucket-list destination for anglers and adventurers alike.

Episode Highlights:

• A Dream Realized: Mitch recounts his serendipitous journey to the lodge, from a chance encounter at an Ole Miss football tailgate to falling in love with the wild beauty of Alaska.
• A Fisherman’s Paradise: The Unalakleet River is home to all five species of Pacific salmon, world-class grayling, and big dollies. Mitch explains the unique, remote setting that allows for exceptional fishing without the crowds.
• The Lodge Experience: Hear about the lodge’s cozy ambiance, complete with warm fireplaces, stunning views, and a supportive, community-oriented atmosphere that turns visitors into family.
• Grayling Magic: Mitch and his brother Evan dive deep into the thrill of fishing for grayling, a species both challenging and rewarding to catch, known for their beauty and spirited fight.
• Behind the Scenes of Lodge Life: Managing the lodge is an adventure in itself. Mitch shares insights into the logistics, challenges, and joys of running a remote Alaskan operation, including some unforgettable moments (like crawling into an 800-gallon wastewater tank).

Whether you're an avid angler or simply love tales of adventure and wild places, this episode offers a rich glimpse into the life, community, and unparalleled beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Resources:

• Visit unalakleet.com to learn more about the lodge and plan your own adventure.

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we take a deep dive into the art of fly tying. Answering a listener's question, we share our thoughts on how to approach this rewarding but sometimes overwhelming aspect of fly fishing. Whether you're a seasoned tier or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice and personal insights to help you make the most of your time at the bench.

Key Highlights:

• Organization Matters: We discuss the importance of organizing your materials, from hooks to marabou, so you always know what you have and can avoid overbuying or using subpar supplies.
• Confidence is Key: Learn why confidence in your flies—both how they’re tied and how they perform—is critical to success on the water and how systematic practice can help you build it.
• Investing in Quality: We emphasize why choosing quality materials can make a big difference in the durability and effectiveness of your flies.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Whether it's spinning deer hair or mastering a clean whip finish, we explain how repetition and tracking your progress can sharpen your skills and build consistency.
• Learning from Others: We highlight resources like Fly Fish Food and Slide Inn, where tutorials and videos can guide you through tricky techniques and help you level up your tying game.

Fly tying is about more than just creating patterns—it’s a way to stay connected to the water and prepare for the adventures ahead. We hope this episode helps you approach tying with a sense of purpose, confidence, and maybe even a little humor. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time on Southeastern Fly!

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Southeastern Fly, we dive deep into the scenic beauty and rich history of Alabama’s Tallapoosa River with warm-water fly-fishing specialist, Drew Morgan. From the river’s fascinating origins in the Muskogee language to its unique characteristics as a relatively untouched waterway in the Piedmont region, Drew brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the discussion.

The Tallapoosa is more than a fishing spot—it’s a connection to the past, where nature and history intertwine. Drew shares insights into the diverse fish species inhabiting the river, including the native Alabama bass and Tallapoosa bass (formerly known as red-eye bass). He breaks down their behaviors, preferred habitats, and the techniques to entice these feisty fighters on the fly.

Highlights from the Episode:

• Geological and Historical Context: Learn about the Tallapoosa’s role as a throwback river, offering a glimpse into a time before industrial development.
• Fishing Tactics and Gear: Discover Drew’s go-to setups, including fast-action rods and fly lines tailored for navigating the river’s rock gardens and shoals.
• Topwater Magic: Uncover why the Tallapoosa is considered one of the best rivers in the South for topwater fly fishing, with Drew’s favorite patterns and profiles that make bass strike.
• Seasonal Tips: Whether you’re chasing big bass in the cooler months or enjoying topwater action in summer, Drew highlights the best times to visit the river.
• Stories from the Water: Hear about the heartbreak and thrill of the one that got away, as Drew recounts his encounters with unforgettable fish.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to fish in a river that feels untouched by time, this episode will inspire you to experience the Tallapoosa firsthand. From the serene beauty of the Piedmont region to the camaraderie of casting with friends, the Tallapoosa offers something special for every angler.

To book a trip or learn more about Drew Morgan, visit East Alabama Fly Fishing.

Produced by NOVA