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GLD #14 | The Skunked Angler’s Survival Guide with Jeff Liskay – Great Lakes Dude Podcast

Episode Show Notes In this episode, Jeff Liskay, your “Great Lakes Dude”, dives deep into the skunked angler's survival guide. From steelhead slumps to blown-out lake days, Jeff shares how he adjusts on the fly, learns from tough conditions, and finds success even when the odds are stacked against him. This episode was inspired by real conversations at the boat ramp with anglers wondering what to do after getting skunked. Jeff’s answer? Start solving the puzzle. Whether you’re struggling with fly selection, pressure, or just can’t seem to find fish, this episode is packed with tactical tips and hard-earned wisdom from...

Great Lakes Dude #13 | Sight Fishing for Smallmouth and Salmon with Phil Cook – Fishing Tools, Backeddy Sales

In this episode of the Great Lakes Dude Podcast, Jeff is joined by industry rep Phil Cook, one of the most respected fly anglers in the region. Phil shares his journey from growing up fishing Michigan’s Au Sable River to leading Backeddy Sales, where he represents top fly fishing brands. They talk about the evolution of Great Lakes fly fishing—from streamer innovations to smallmouth bass tactics, the rise of Atlantic salmon, and hunting Cohos in skinny water. Phil reveals his passion for sight-fishing, his approach to gear testing, and why movement, research, and Google Earth are anglers' best tools.

Great Lakes Dude #12 | Float Fishing for Steelhead with Tom Blotzer – Rigging Tips, Winter Tactics

In this episode of the Great Lakes Dude Podcast, the spotlight turns to the southern shores of Lake Erie and the legendary Steelhead Alley—also known as Rainbow Alley. Jeff is joined by a longtime friend and the current president of the Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders, Tom Blotzer. Together, they dive into what’s happening with steelhead programs in the region and what anglers can expect over the next four to five years.
great lakes

Great Lakes Dude #11 | Great Lakes Fishing & Conservation with D’Arcy Egan and Jeff Liskay

In this episode, Jeff Liskay, aka the “Great Lakes Dude,” is joined by longtime outdoor writer D’Arcy Egan. With over 50 years of experience covering fishing and conservation in Ohio, D’Arcy shares his knowledge of Lake Erie’s transformation, the steelhead boom, and the history of fishery management in the region. From early days fishing for perch to breaking conservation stories, this episode is packed with insights into one of the most underrated fisheries in the country. Show Notes with D'Arcy Egan and Jeff Liskay on Great Lakes Fishing & Conservation. Hit play below! 👇🏻 Find the show:  iTunes | Stitcher | Overcast Subscribe on Android Subscribe on Apple...
fly rod and line

Finding the Perfect Fly Rod and Line Combo (Part 2) with Jeff Liskay – Great Lakes Dude #8

In the first installment, Jeff Liskay masterfully explored the world of rods and floating lines. Now, prepare to plunge into the depths with our next episode, where we'll learn more about and two-handed lines. Show Notes with Jeff Liskay on Fly Rod and Line Combo. Hit play below! 👇🏻 Find the show:  iTunes | Stitcher | Overcast Subscribe on Android Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe via RSS (Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)   Sponsors and Podcast Updates   Episode Chapters with Jeff Liskay on Fly Rod and Line Combo 00:57 - Sinking Lines and Modern Innovations Jeff begins by recalling the early days of experimenting with sinking lines in the...
rod and line

Finding the Perfect Fly Rod and Line Combo (Part 1) with Jeff Liskay – Great Lakes Dude #8

Are you tired of not having the right line matched to your fishing rod? In this episode, Jeff Liskay, the Great Lakes dude, breaks down the mystery of finding the perfect fly rod and line combo. Inspired by the countless anglers who have reached out to him for advice, Jeff shares his expertise on the topic and provides insights on achieving success when fishing in the Great Lakes and its tributaries. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting, this episode will provide valuable information to help you make the most out of your next fishing trip. Show Notes with Jeff...
cuyahoga river

GLD #7 – Cuyahoga River with Mike Durkalec – Great Lakes Dude Podcast with Jeff Liskay

Embark on a journey of environmental triumph and angling adventure as we explore the Cuyahoga River's spectacular comeback, guided by the expertise of Mike Durkalec, aquatic biologist and fishing report hero. Discover how this once fiery river became a success story of ecological restoration, propelling forward thanks to the Clean Water Act and concerted community efforts. Dive into our discussion about the significance of dam removals, and witness the river's rebirth through improved water quality, enhanced biodiversity, and the return of thriving aquatic life.
walleye fishing

GLD 05 – Walleye Fishing with Randy Gaines – Tournament Fishing, Lake Erie, Nibble This Charters

On this episode of the Wet Fly Swing Great Lakes podcast, we're joined by tournament fisherman and lifelong angler, Randy Gaines, Captain at Nibble This Charters. With over 20 years of professional experience and multiple national tournament wins under his belt, Randy brings an ocean of knowledge and practical tips on fishing for bass and walleye in the Great Lakes. We talk about everything from the importance of understanding fishing structure to selecting the right lures and fly designs, to navigating different water conditions, and even a few fishing tales.
skinny water

Great Lakes Dude #4 – Skinny Water Fishing with Dave Hurley – Drum Fish, Carp, Spotfin Croaker

In today's episode, the Dude Jeff Liskay chats with one of the best shallow-water fly anglers, Dave Hurley.
Great Lakes fly fishing

A Roadmap to Great Lakes Steelhead Fishing (Part 2) – Great Lakes Fly Fishing #3 with Jeff Liskay

Get ready to catch the big one as we jump back into Great Lakes fly fishing today. We know how much you love this, so we're serving up another dose of steelhead wisdom and adventure from the Great Lakes Dude, Jeff Liskay.