Saltwater Edge Podcast - Sharing Our Passion For Saltwater Fishing (Peter Jenkins - A saltwater angler always down for an adventure.)

Dave Anderson has many talents. He's a top Wiffle Ball talent, master plug builder, and very talented writer; but at the end of the day, he is a curious fisherman. Dave is always down to try something new and will forever be peeling the onion on his passion - surfcasting for striped bass.

He is currently the Editor of The Fisherman magazine and was previously the Editor of Surfcasters Journal.

Captain Diogo Godoi of Gorilla Tactics Sportfishing owns one of Cape Cod’s premier inshore light tackle charter operations; he specializes in bluefin tuna, striped bass, and false albacore, as well as a variety of other species. 

When you fish with Captain Diogo, you realize he is experienced in a variety of light tackle fishing techniques and will stick with them until you are tight. The SWE crew has gone offshore fishing with Diogo a number of times for jig and pop bluefin. Every time has been a great experience, with plenty of shots and time spent learning something new if Plan A doesn't work out as planned.

This guy is all in!

Back in the day, he was a hell of a good lacrosse player.

Today’s guest on the Saltwater Edge Podcast is a passionate, lifelong fisherman and a tough salty bastard, but those are table stakes for being an effective fisheries advocate. Stir in a deep respect for the past and an unwavering ability to focus on “fish first” as your North Star, and you get the best in the game.

The American Saltwater Guides Association is a young organization founded in 2018 that has grown rapidly due to its core values of science, education, and advocacy. Today’s guest conceived of an organization with a “fish first science-based” approach to fisheries management. He recruited me to serve as Chairman, which has been some of the most gratifying work of my career. He is the rare combination of a patient strategist playing the long game and a very effective “sales guy” when he sees the right opportunity.

Please welcome the 2024 Garden and Gun Conservation Award winner, ASGA President and Policy Director and “not everybody's cup of tea” Tony Friedrich.

Show notes:

Peter Jenkins, the host of the Saltwater Edge podcast, interviews Tony Friedrich, President and Policy Director of the American Saltwater Guide Association. They discuss various fishing tactics, fisheries management, and conservation efforts. Friedrich shares his journey from growing up passionate about fishing, influenced by his family and mentors like Lefty Kreh, to leading impactful advocacy work with ASGA. They highlight ASGA's science-based approach to fisheries management, focusing on public education and building an 'advocate army' to influence policy. Key discussions include the economic impact of fisheries, challenges in fisheries management, and current efforts to protect species like striped bass and false albacore.

00:34 Introducing Today's Guest: Tony Friedrich
01:44 Tony's Early Life and Passion for Fishing
08:20 Mentorship and Influences: Lefty Kreh
20:34 Fisheries Management and Conservation Efforts
22:24 Challenges in Fisheries Advocacy
32:12 The Importance of False Albacore Management
34:54 Hitting a Wall: The Need for Science
35:12 Community Engagement and Advocacy
35:54 Building an Advocate Army
36:35 Success Stories and Wins
37:17 Skill Training for Advocacy
37:48 The Importance of a Unified Voice
38:55 Upcoming Events and Key Dates
40:09 Expanding Conservation Efforts
45:12 Economic Impact of Fisheries
48:57 The Value of Recreational Fisheries
55:58 Challenges and Future Directions
59:55 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts

Rene is the consumate Captian. He can catch fish with the best of them, but he also provides a safe and fun experience in that order. Nobody puts more prep time into each trip than Rene. He works hard and has a long list of proven spots, and he'll give it to you straight away. If it could happen on the water, from finding a school of squeteague to mechanical problems, he's thought of it and is prepared with the right lure, fly, or boat part, whatever the case may be. 

If you have fished with Rene, you no doubt understand how deserving the Orvis 2020 Saltwater Guide of the Year honor is. 

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The Saltwater Edge Podcast recently welcomed a special guest, Dr. Aaron Adams—an esteemed marine scientist, author, and avid angler with over 35 years of experience in fish ecology and conservation. As the Director of Science and Conservation at Bonefish Tarpon Trust, Dr. Adams bridges the gap between complex scientific research and practical fishing advice, making him the perfect voice for anglers eager to deepen their understanding of saltwater habitats.

Insights From Dr. Adams

Growing up near the Chesapeake Bay, Dr. Adams witnessed firsthand the impact of ecosystem decline. This early exposure ignited his lifelong dedication to fish conservation and ecological research. His books and work emphasize the importance of habitat-focused angling, flipping the traditional script of “chasing fish” by encouraging anglers to start by studying the environment first.

Books Mentioned in the Podcast

During the conversation, host Peter Jenkins referenced several of Dr. Adams’ works that have become essential reading for anglers seeking to level up their fishing game:

1. Fisherman’s Coast
   A foundational guide that introduces the importance of understanding habitat when fishing, covering everything from coastal ecosystems to tidal influences.

2. Saltwater Prey
   This book dives deeper into the behaviors of prey species and how anglers can match the patterns to outsmart game fish.

3. The Orvis Guide to Fly Fishing for Coastal Gamefish
   Expanding on Fisherman’s Coast, this guide includes updates on tides, fish vision, and how different habitats influence fishing strategies.

For those looking to sharpen their angling skills and apply ecological principles, these books are invaluable. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just beginning your saltwater journey, tuning into this podcast episode is a step toward fishing smarter by understanding the intricate dance between predator, prey, and habitat.

Show Notes:

00:33 Meet Dr. Aaron Adams: Marine Scientist and Avid Angler
02:19 The Science Behind Fishing Techniques
04:54 Understanding Fish Behavior and Habitat
07:31 Fishing in Different Environments
11:03 Impact of Environmental Factors on Fishing
26:55 Exploring New Fishing Spots
34:45 The Onboard Computer of Fishing
35:19 The Debate on Keeping Logs
38:06 Broadcast Spawning Explained
42:36 Economic Impact of Fisheries
44:51 The Intersection of Science and Fishing
54:05 Tips for Better Angling
01:04:20 Bonefish Tarpon Trust Initiatives
01:07:05 Conclusion and Resources

Chris Aubut grew up in the very fishy Westport, MA. He spent most of his youth developing his boating and saltwater fishing skills with guidance from his father. Throughout his life, surfing in Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island consumed most of his time away from light tackle and saltwater fly fishing. After he graduated from the Chapman School of Seamanship, he pursued a life on the water.

Over the past 13 years, Chris has guided hundreds of clients on successful fishing charters in Westport and the Florida Keys. In 2011, he again turned his passion into a business and started the Aubut Rod Company, informed by those years on the water. Since then, he has made hundreds of high-performing light tackle fishing rods for freshwater and saltwater anglers around the globe.

Wikipedia says, "Bob Popovics is an American fly tier from New Jersey." That's like saying, "Bruce Springsteen is an American musician from New Jersey" Bob Pop and the Boss share modest Garden State beginnings and a passion and vision for their craft.

Bob Popovics pioneered using epoxy to create durability in saltwater flies as a solution to the regular shredding by bluefish of conventional flies. Bob also recognized that epoxy had the added side-effects of providing translucency and profile, facilitating the imitation of a wide variety of baitfish. In 1992 the Surf Candy series took the stale saltwater fly fishing market by storm. It was Bob Popovics "Born To Run" 

Many more innovations have followed since, including the Semper Fleye, Pop Lips, Bucktail Deceiver, Bulkhead, and Hollow Fleye, to name a few. 

Bob is happy to recognize the mentors who helped him along the way and is just as committed to passing the baton to the next generation as saltwater fly tying continues to get more creative.

Steve McKenna has probably spent more time in the Rhody surf than almost anyone. Since college, he has put in the time required to gain meaningful insights, all the while keeping an open mind to how things could be improved. He is well known for developing the way to rig a Sluggo to swim more like an eel, for example. 

Steve is a kind and generous fisherman who is grateful for the experiences the surf has provided. 

Captain Connor MacLeod is one of the most in demand charter boat captains I know. From the on the water experience he creates that earns stellar reviews, to his monthly Fishing Forecast in On The Water magazine, to his highly effective line of tog jigs. Every thing is top notch. And to top it off, the RI State Record blackfish of 21.57 lbs caught on his boat in 2021!

He also understands that while operating safely is a charter captain's primary job he recogmizes that creating memories keeps people coming back. Captain Connor Macleod has done plenty of repeat customers.

Learn more about Captain Connor and Tall Tailz Charters here

Captain Craig Cantelmo grew up on the East End of Long Island. He was introduced to surfcasting by his father and saltwater fishing became a life long passion. Today Craig is the Manager of Van Staal Fishing Products and has played a vital role in the creation of some of the leading surf, fly, and inshore reels in saltwater fishing. He is living proof that some folks can mix business with pleasure.

In this episode of the Saltwater Edge podcast, host Peter Jenkins welcomes Captain Craig Cantelmo from Van Staal Fishing Products. The discussion dives into the history and evolution of Van Staal's iconic fishing reels, from their inception to the modern VS and VR series. They discuss engineering innovations, material choices, and the impact of braided lines on reel design. The conversation also covers Van Staal's distinctive fishing pliers and fly reels, highlighting their design features and durability. This episode offers a comprehensive look at Van Staal’s long-standing tradition in surf and inshore fishing gear.

Special thanks to Iron Mike Everin for sharing his extensive collection of Van Staal products. Come check out the display in the Education Corner of the shop.

Take a look at one of the early Van Staal catalogs here

00:00 Introduction to Saltwater Edge Podcast
00:34 Special Episode with Captain Craig Cantelmo
01:33 History and Evolution of Van Stall Reels
03:58 Technical Innovations and Design Philosophy
11:51 Van Stall's Market Journey and Collaborations
19:11 Introduction to VR Reels
19:41 The VR 50 and Market Impact
20:38 Evolution of Van Staal Reels
24:12 The Iconic Van Staal Pliers
29:47 The CVEX Fly Reel Revolution
36:31 Van Staal's Entry into Tuna Fishing
38:11 The X Series and Modern Innovations
40:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Captain Coral Rose Aiello has been saltwater fishing with her father, Joe since she was a child and became first mate on his charter boat the Coral Rose at 14. In the decade+ since then, she has come into her own as a fisherman, and she and Joe have developed a very unique working relationship as a father-daughter team.

Coral, aka “Professional Hooker” can be found and followed on Instagram @Professional.Hooker. Check out her YouTube channel where she often posts fishing videos. 

She holds her USCG 100-Ton Masters License. She is majoring in aquaculture & fisheries at the University of Rhode Island. As an avid conservationist, she is involved with Gray’s Fish tagging out of Florida and The American Littoral Society out of New Jersey.

John Field spent extensive time exploring the waters of the Northwest Territories in Canada, the Amazon, and elsewhere while working for Larry Dahlberg Productions. He filmed and co-produced Hunt for Big Fish with Dahlberg.

He has decades of experience flats fishing the Florida Keys and striped bass fishing in the Northeast. He is an FFI (Fly Fishers International) Certified Master Casting Instructor 

He has two fly casting books to his credit and released his latest book, Fly Fishing for Trophy Striped Bass just this month. His feature articles have been published in Fly Fisherman Magazine and several others.

Captain Max Dispoto has already spent what might be a lifetime for most other anglers fishing the tuna grounds of Southern New England. He has a passion for the canyons as well as the "Midshore" fishery that has exploded this year due to the abundance of sand eels. 

Max is a member of the Shimano Saltwater Sportfishing Pro Staff. That's quite a recognition that he earned because he shares the same relentless drive and guy instincts that the very best Cpatains seem to share.

Hogy Lure Company was founded by Captain Mike Hogan who designed and tweaked each product in the field. Captain Mike has fished all over the country and has developed products and techniques along the way, all with big fish in mind.

The company was started in 2004 when Captain Mike left his office job in Boston and moved back to Cape Cod to get closer to its tremendous saltwater fishing. He began running inshore fishing and offshore fishing charters again, focusing on trophy class fishing. He doesn’t use live or dead bait, so he needed baits for particular situations to compete with live bait anglers. As a result, he saw a demand for large-style soft baits that mimicked the larger baits he was trying to imitate. Captain Mike spent many months working on the unique blend of soft plastic and finally came up with the current plastic blend that Hogy Lure Company uses today. He immediately saw how effective large soft baits were for both inshore fishing and offshore. Never intending to bring the new lures to market, Captain Mike used them on his charters and gave them to his friends who referred to them as “Hogy's”

Capt. Mike's first experience selling Hogy Lures was at a sportsman show in Massachusetts. He remembered the mountain of soft baits he had on the table at a time when he didn’t even have packaging. Much to his great pleasure, he sold out by early afternoon the first day. The same thing happened at the following show in Rhode Island. It was then that he knew he was on to something. In 2005, Hogy Lure Company was incorporated and later filed for a patent, which was finally received in 2009.

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Capt Jack Sprengel is known for his edgy style and unique approach to the sport. A recreational angler by age 6, Jack’s professional career in saltwater fishing started at 14 when a local tackle shop hired him.  There, he was able to learn all aspects of the industry from the marketing and retail perspective and nearly every single form of sport fishing available today. The Captain learned by paying attention to the old-timers, working with commercial fishermen, and honing his unique style. By the age of 16, he was dialed in enough that shop customers began to pay him for the day to jump on their boats and help them catch more fish. Weather it is light tackle, offshore or bottom fishing Jack has put in the time on the water.

Capt Jack has nearly three decades of professional angling experience. During this time, he has traveled the world in search of trophy game fish, landing species from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, The Caribbean Sea, and The Gulf of Mexico.

An active writer and photographer, Jack has been both featured and published in numerous outdoor publications, including: “Saltwater Sportsman,” “Sport Fishing Magazine,” “On the Water,” “The Fisherman,” “Nor-east,” “Field and Stream,” and “Jig and Pop the World.” 

Learn more about Jack at https://www.eastcoastchartersri.com/

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Most of Ben Whalley’s very non-traditional youth was spent in Brazil. When he wasn’t breaking horses or working on the ranch, he was exploring the wilderness and waterways, searching for natural materials he could spin up to imitate local berries to catch Pacou.

About 20 years ago, he moved to Maine, where his obsession with wild salmonids and chasing stripers on the beautiful, expansive flats in the Gulf of Maine.

His saltwater flies are known for being functional and realistic, heavily influenced by the brilliance of Bob Popovic. 

In 2022, Ben decided to leave his career as an engineer to pursue his tying, teaching, and guiding full time.

Check out benwhalleyfishing.com to learn more.

Ed Mitchell has published four saltwater fly fishing books and written dozens of magazine articles. He was an early supporter of striped bass conservation and was very involved in Amendment 3 (we are on Amendment 7 now). 

Ed resides in Connecticut and regularly fishes in CT and South County in RI. He also spent fifteen June's on Martha's Vineyard. 

As the frost of winter lingers, the team at The Saltwater Edge has been keeping busy, preparing for the warmer days ahead. In our latest group podcast, Coby, John, Cyril, Tyler, and Eric gathered to chat about their recent winter adventures, fishing highlights, and the excitement of spring fishing on the horizon.

Winter Adventures

While the icy winds kept many indoors, the crew embraced the season in their own ways. Tyler and Coby took to the Deerfield River for a memorable trout fishing trip, complete with good catches, a close call with the water, and plenty of laughs. Cyril experimented with saltwater jigs in freshwater, landing some impressive lake trout. Meanwhile, Tyler ventured into his first duck-hunting season, bringing back both exciting stories and a mouthwatering recipe for duck flatbread pizza.

Spring Preparations

The team is already gearing up for a promising spring. Tyler is ready to hit the herring runs, while Coby is preparing his fly rod to test new shrimp patterns in some of his favorite spots. John, always experimenting, plans to continue his early spring success with rooster tails and wake baits. Each team member is eager for those first topwater bites and the buzz of peak fishing season.

Upcoming Events

The excitement doesn’t stop there! We’re thrilled to announce our annual Plug Kickoff Show, happening on April 5th, showcasing some of the best gear and lures to jumpstart your season.

As Editor of On The Water Jimmy has to fish a lot and fortunately for On The Water Magazine Jimmy is up to the challenge. All joking aside it's no small task to have the versatility and the expertise to teach others a stunning array of fishing techniques from center pinning for steelhead to deep-dropping swordfish.

Fact is Jimmy Fee is a talented and curious angler who might be the best guy for the job he has. Case in point a few years ago I heard of a whisper of a local squeteague bite and I was immediately excited up to catch one. So I go to Google to learn a bit about jigging and the first result was an article written by Jimmy only a few days prior. This is further proof that he has his finger on the pulse of New England saltwater fishing. Join us for a great chat with a great guy.

Even as a fairly late bloomer to the sport, Dustin Stevens undying desire to learn all things fishing has led him to become a multi-species and multi-technique angler. This curiosity has created an avid inshore fisherman with a passion for stripers, albies, tog, and sea bass

Dustin also has a unique business model here in the northeast in that he guides kayak fishermen. His focus is on both light tackle and bottom fishing so anglers often fish both styles on one charter. 

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention his charter business is in addition to being a husband, father and a good bit of travel as required by his profession in the airline industry. The dude is tireless.

Tom Rosenbauer is the host of the Orvis Fly Fishing Podcast and has been with the Orvis Company for over 30 years, and while there has been a fishing school instructor, copywriter, public relations director, merchandise manager, editor of The Orvis News, and Marketing Director for Orvis Rod and Tackle. He is now the "Chief Enthusiast"

Tom has more than ten fly fishing books in print, including The Orvis Fly-Tying Guide, which won a National Outdoor Book Award. 

When he was named Fly Rod & Reel magazine's Angler of the Year the magazine said:

"People who meet him know the is as valid a fly fisherman as they come - honest, approachable, generous, dedicated, and enthusiastic."

For a guy who has written ten books on fly fishing for trout Tom sure has a salty side which he describes:

“I love false albacore, stripers. I have a love/hate relationship with tarpon, they get me all excited, but it’s a little too intense, and you can’t stalk them as much. I could give a ^*#@ about permit,” he said grinning. “As Steve Huff says, they’re a dishonest fish. You do everything right, and they still won’t eat the fly. Do everything right with a bonefish and they’ll usually eat.”

Show Notes:

We discuss Tom's fishing journey from Rochester NY to one of the most recognizable names in fly fishing.

Tackle and tactics for striped bass on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard.

His favorite flies, and places to catch bonefish.

A focused discussion on flats fishing with a fly rod and how striped bass and bonefish tactics have many similarities.

Other resources:

The Orvis Fly Fishing Podcast 

Orvis Fly Fishing Learning Center

Striped Bass On The Fly

Fly Fishing for False Albacore - Orvis Podcast

Fish On: The Tom Rosenbauer Story

Bill Wetzel has guided the Montauk surf for over 25 years. He is one of the most requested anglers that you, the Saltwater Edge Podcast listeners, have ever asked for.

Not surprisingly, his live social posts that he records driving home after a night of surfcasting in the Montauk surf are a masterclass in the thought process of what makes great anglers great—traits like focus, observation, and a deep understanding of seasonal bait migrations and more. 

Bill has hosted the Surf Rats Ball Surf Fishing Tournament for over a decade. He has donated 100% of the proceeds to Kids Need More, a non-profit that is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and their families who are coping with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. That’s an awesome display of compassion and commitment.

Learn more at Surf Rats Ball

Show Notes:

00:34 Introducing the Guest: A Surf Casting Legend
01:44 The Guest's Arrival and Initial Conversation
02:03 Discussing Fishing Tactics and Strategies
03:06 Understanding Bait Migrations and Fishing Seasons
05:00 The Art of Surf Fishing: Techniques and Tips
07:01 The Importance of Observation in Fishing
07:43 The Role of Bait in Fishing Success
10:05 The Intricacies of Fishing Locations and Conditions
12:41 The Importance of Focus and Observation in Fishing
15:19 Understanding and Navigating Fishing Structures
18:46 The Role of Passion and Preparation in Fishing Success
22:57 The Importance of Keeping a Fishing Log
37:51 Discussing the Magic Minutes Talk
37:58 Understanding the Importance of Wind and Tide in Fishing
38:34 The Art of Spotting and Breaking Down Fishing Locations
39:07 Balancing Fishing with Personal Life
40:21 The Intricacies of Fishing in Different Conditions
42:28 The Importance of Knowledge and Experience in Fishing
46:16 The Changing Landscape of Montauk
53:00 The Role of Equipment in Fishing
01:03:51 The Final Fishing Day Dream Scenario
01:06:57 The Impact of Surf Rats Ball on Kids with Cancer
01:09:01 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements

Bonefishing is one of the most thrilling saltwater experiences an angler can have, and planning a DIY trip adds an extra layer of challenge and reward. Whether you're heading to the Bahamas, Belize, or Mexico, a self-guided flats fishing adventure requires careful planning and a strategic approach.

In this guide, based on insights from seasoned DIY angler Ross Kessler, we’ll cover everything you need to know to execute a successful DIY bonefish trip—from planning and tides to gear and tactics.

For many anglers, DIY bonefishing is the ultimate test of skill and preparation. Instead of relying on a guide, you take full responsibility for finding fish, choosing the right fly, and executing the perfect cast. It’s an adventure that requires patience, observation, and a bit of trial and error.

Show notes:

In this episode of the Saltwater Edge podcast, host Peter Jenkins talks with Ross Kessler, a seasoned DIY bonefish angler with about 20 years of experience. They discuss various tackle tactics, key observations, and best practices for DIY inshore fishing trips, diving deep into fisheries management, conservation, and specific destinations. Ross shares invaluable tips on trip planning, including the importance of tides, preparation, logistics, gear, and the significance of short-game casting, among other insights. They also touch on the role and benefits of hiring local guides to enhance the fishing experience. The episode is packed with practical advice for passionate anglers looking to embark on their own DIY fishing adventures.

00:00 Introduction to the Saltwater Edge Podcast
00:35 Guest Introduction: Ross Kessler
01:06 The Appeal of DIY Fishing
02:50 Planning Your DIY Fishing Trip
05:18 Tides and Timing
10:57 Packing and Preparation
14:24 Navigating and Accessing Fishing Spots
26:30 Essential Gear for Solo Fishing
26:45 Staying Hydrated and Cool
28:37 Clothing and Sun Protection
29:10 Fishing Gear Essentials
31:23 Fly Selection and Techniques
33:49 The Importance of Local Guides
36:24 Casting Techniques and Tips
42:39 Fly Recommendations for DIY Trips
49:31 Conservation and Ethical Fishing
51:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this podcast episode, Peter Jenkins, owner of the Saltwater Edge, hosts Ralph Craft from Crafty One Customs. Ralph shares his journey into fishing and rod building, the challenges and intricacies of creating custom fishing rods, and the importance of conservation and sustainable fishing practices. The discussion extends to community involvement, including efforts to support pediatric cancer patients and other charitable activities. The episode also delves into the controversial topic of offshore wind development and its potential impacts on the environment and local fishing communities. Ralph emphasizes the importance of small businesses and the value of local expertise in enhancing the fishing experience.

Crafty One Customs

00:00 Introduction to the Saltwater Edge Podcast
00:33 Meet Ralph Craft: The Master Rod Builder
02:07 Ralph's Fishing Journey and Passion
03:41 The Beauty and Challenges of Rhode Island Fishing
05:34 Conservation Efforts and Sustainable Fishing
11:20 The Importance of Small Businesses in the Fishing Community
22:12 Rod Building Techniques and Innovations
32:09 Strategy Before Tactics in Fishing
32:45 The Importance of Hook Sharpeners
33:07 Choosing the Right Rod and Reel
34:35 Challenges in Custom Rod Building
38:00 Community Involvement and Charity Work
42:29 Concerns About Offshore Wind Farms
54:33 Fishing Gear Recommendations
01:02:18 Final Thoughts and Business Promotion

Today's guest is a passionate man. Whether it's paintball, capturing cool video, or surfcasting for his beloved striped bass. He is all in.

Today's guest has been a steady supporter of catch and release recognizing some time ago that we need to release the breeders to have a sustainable fishery and the opportunity to share our joy with future generations.

He has also followed his passion into product development and looking for better solutions for surfcasters. Check out Phase Gear

Please welcome from Comanche Surfcasting the Smiling Tan Man Pete Uchtig.

As an educator and an entrepreneur, Luyen Chou has done some remarkable things in his career, and since his teenage years he has always been been drawn to saltwater fishing. When the opportunity presented itself to apply his unique skills to make a difference in his passion, he stepped up with his time and talent. Striped bass, false albacore, redfish, and the people who chase them are just starting to realize the benefits Luyen and his app GotOne can have on our fisheries. The app will serve the angler in ways no other app does, and the anonomized (non-specific) data will be invaluable to fisheries managers. He is indeed the right guy at the right time.

Well done, my friend.

Frank Goncalves has been immersed in saltwater fishing since childhood, growing up in the East Coast's largest fishing port of New Bedford, Massachusetts. This proximity to the salt, a lot of commitment, and his abundant creativity have produced a very talented surfcaster. Sure, there is "putting in the work," his effort is legendary, but many of us can stand on a rock. Frank Goncalves separates from the pack with his attention to detail and a creative mind that powers his day job as a graphic designer but is also critical to his surfcasting success. Frank, like all creators, operates with a set of facts, intuition, and a willingness to try things of which some don't work out, but the results in aggregate are quite impressive. 

Capt. Kyle is a fly fishing guide, lodge owner, writer, conservationist, and entrepreneur. Kyle’s passion for fly fishing runs deep, but his true passion is helping people and fighting to protect wild fish and wild places.

He guides for stripers on the flats in Maine and chases bonefish, permit and whatever else is on the flats in the Berry Islands, Bahamas. Like most of us Kyle is happy when there is a bend in the rod; but he gets truely excited by the anticipation of seeing a fish and making the cast that gets the eat in skinny water. 

Kyle’s guiding career includes extensive time in the western US chasing world-class trout, the vast marshlands of Argentina for Golden Dorado, and the diverse coast of New England for Striped Bass. Kyle has been lucky to travel the world exploring new fisheries and has spent extensive time on the Bahamian flats, living in South Andros managing a fly fishing lodge, and most recently launched Soul Fly Lodge, his first lodge operation.

Check out our Soul Fly Lodge Fly Shop if you are headed south.

Today’s guest grew up fishing the small mountain streams near his Blue Ridge, Virginia home. As a youngster, he started a guiding service and, in the late 90s, opened Blue Ridge Fly Fishers in Roanoke, Virginia. He has worked for years to create patterns that solve angling problems. More than once, he has created “a platform” a design innovation so effective that dozens of “patterns” can then be created. Some of these can go head to head with the strike-generating action of conventional lures.

A decade ago, our guest returned to the river where he now owns and operates his guide service, specializing in float trips for musky, smallmouth bass, stripers, trout, and many other species. 

In addition, he is the Southeastern Field Editor for Fly Fishermen. He is an advisor or brand ambassador for many of the industry’s top brands: Patagonia, Temple Fork Outfitters, Scientific Anglers, Costa and Renzetti

One of the things I appreciate the most about today's guest is his deep respect for the past and those who have helped him along the way. His passion for conservation also seems to grow at about the same pace as his son Tyler. It has been a pleasure working and traveling with him for the American Saltwater Guides Association.

John Skinner is a renowned author and videographer with over 50 years of saltwater fishing experience. He is particularly well-known for his expertise in surfcasting for striped bass, albies, and fluke. 

His "real job" as a computer scientist at the prestigious Brookhaven Nnational Labratory means he always asks why? This curiosity has served the surfcasting community very well.

Over the years, he has contributed to various publications, including On the Water, The Surfcaster's Journal, and Shallow Water Angler. He is known for his methodical and productive approach to fishing. Recently retired, he now splits his time between Eastern Long Island, New York, and Pine Island, Florida.

He shares his knowledge through a top-rated YouTube channel and several self published books. He is one of the authors that I find myself rereading the most.

Steve Culton lives in Connecticut and is a fly fishing guide and instructor, fly tier, and freelance writer. His work has appeared in Field and Stream, American Angler, The Flyfish Journal, The Drake, Flyfishing & Tying Journal, Eastern Fly Fishing, Fly Rod & Reel, and the Mid Atlantic Fly Fishing Guide.

He regularly presents to clubs and organizations around the northeast on both trout and saltwater fly fishing, as well as at regional and national shows.

Most of all, he's just a guy who loves fly fishing.

His passions include trout, striped bass, steelhead, smallmouth bass, and small streams with wild brook trout populations.

His website currentseams.com is a great place to keep up with Steve.

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Captain BJ Silvia of Flippin Out Fishing Charters has been fishing Newport, Block Island, and Narragansett Bay his whole life. A life-long Aquidneck Island resident, he is a wealth of knowledge about fisheries, and effective techniques on top of that he is always experimenting and searching for "new" water.

He has seen fisheries both decline and recover and is vocal in his commitment to creating and maintaining quality tautog fishing in the Ocean State. He is a regular speaker at saltwater fishing shows light tackle, offshore fishing and bottom fishing and has been featured on On The Water TV multiple times.

While BJ is also a great striper fisherman if you want to get into tautog, fluke, and sea bass BJ is a great way to learn the ropes. Above all else, he loves to laugh, and his customers have a lot of fun! 

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This episode features Peter Jenkins, owner of the Saltwater Edge, in conversation with renowned fish artist Nick Mayer. They discuss Nick's journey from a young nature enthusiast to becoming one of the world's top fish portrait artists, his academic background in marine biology, and his various experiences and jobs in fisheries research around the globe. Nick shares insights into his art process, the importance of detail and observation, and his transition from traditional gallery sales to e-commerce. The discussion also covers the significance of fishing companions, maintaining an open mind for learning, and utilizing digital tools for fishing. Nick also highlights his latest book, 'Fish ABCs,' and his personal fishing bucket list, expressing a desire to catch a GT in the Seychelles.

00:00 Welcome to The Saltwater Edge Podcast
00:36 Spotlight on Nick Mayer: A Master of Fish Portraits
00:54 Nick Mayer's Journey: From Childhood Fascination to Renowned Artist
04:33 The Artistic Process and Passion Behind Nick Mayer's Work
21:00 Nick Mayer's Adventures and Inspirations in Fishing and Art
26:11 A Harrowing Tugboat Tale
27:12 From Near-Disaster to Artistic Inspiration
28:53 The Artistic Process: From Pencil to Watercolor
35:07 The Business of Art: Making It Accessible
38:55 Fishing: A Universal Connector
40:48 Art, Conservation, and the Digital Pivot
41:47 Fishing Tips, Resources, and a Dream Day
49:40 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Scott Bennett is the Program Director for the Marine Biologic Lab’s Striped Bass Magic research program and the MBL’s Marine Resources Department manager. He grew up in Chicago fishing in freshwater lakes. As a teenager, he started coming to Cape Cod during the summers, where he developed a love for saltwater fishing. He earned a BA in Marine Biology from Roger Williams University in 2005 and a Master's Degree in Comparative Physiology focusing on cranial endothermy in tunas from Cal State Fullerton in 2013. Prior to graduate school, he spent several years at the American Museum of Natural History in the Department of Ichthyology, assisting with research on understanding the evolutionary relationships between various species of fish.

Marine Biologic Lab’s Striped Bass Magic research program is doing great work to better understand the biology and movements of striped bass. They conduct their ongoing research in Eel Pond which is home to a seasonally resident striped bass population, some of which have returned to this same pond for multiple years in a row. the longitudinal data they have collected has been very beneficial to understanding striped bass biology and movements. If you want to learn more about their research, check out the Striped Bass Magic website

The discussion covers a range of topics including the behavior, migration, and habits of striped bass in various environments. Bennett elaborates on the research methodologies used, including PIT and acoustic telemetry tags, and their findings, such as the correlation between striped bass movements and barometric pressure. The conversation also delves into the application of AI in fish identification and a collaborative research project with the Wampanoag tribe at Squibnocket. Jenkins and Bennett reflect on how this extensive research can influence recreational fishing practices and policies.

00:36 Meet Today's Guest: Marine Biologist Scott Bennett
02:37 The Striped Bass Magic Research Program
05:03 Tagging Techniques and Tools
08:04 Behavioral Patterns and Circadian Rhythms
24:26 Individual vs. Group Behavior
29:56 Investigating Striped Bass Migrations
31:06 Experiments with Fingerlings and Iron Deposits
32:48 Adult Fish and Electromagnetic Field Experiments
33:45 Tagging and Tracking Striped Bass
38:48 AI in Fish Identification
45:10 Collaborative Research with Squibnocket Native American Tribe
52:33 Concluding Thoughts and Future Research

Orlando Campos, otherwise known as NorCalKat respects the past and protects the future. He is first a fisherman who has the talents and skills to build plugs that are unique in their own way and made out of a need he has experienced.

Everything I know about woodworking comes from my fishing partner, Mike Fixter.  Without his generosity in fast-tracking me on the ins and outs of making a Striper Plug, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

I am a big advocate for having a good fishery for all.  Education is the key to teaching everyone good habits and techniques in fishing.  I am part of the Catch and Release Crew and always offer good information on how we can improve and influence others in a positive manner.  

J. Kenney Abrames is a Rhode Island treasure. He is the author of Striper Moon and A Perfect Fish two of the seminal works in fly rodding for striped bass, but to describe Kenney as a striper fisherman is to sell him very short. He's a talented artist. First and foremost. He has sculpted a larger-than-life Jesus, done ornate theater ceilings and molding, written a couple of non-fishing books, and a house full of paintings including every fly in A Perfect Fish.

Above all, he's a generous man. Always there with a wise word and encouragement. I am fortunate to call him my friend.

Kenney has a blog here

For over a decade, 24/7 Lures has been a staple in the world of custom wooden fishing lures, crafting high-quality, small-batch plugs designed for serious surf casters. In a recent episode of the Saltwater Edge Podcast, we sat down with Elliot Thomas, owner of 24/7 Lures, to discuss the evolution of wooden lure design, fishing tactics, and the impact of conservation-minded rigging.

The History and Evolution of 24/7 Lures

Elliot Thomas took over 24/7 Lures in 2017 after acquiring the brand from Jeff Dunbar, who had previously acquired it from Al Gag. The company has maintained its dedication to high-quality craftsmanship while incorporating modern refinements. Over the years, 24/7 Lures has redesigned several of their classic models to improve performance and longevity.

One of the company’s most notable recent innovations is the introduction of flag-rigged lures, designed to reduce post-release mortality for striped bass. Studies have shown that a single belly hook combined with a flag on the back of the lure significantly decreases injury to released fish, making this setup a game-changer for conservation-conscious anglers.

Why Needlefish and Darters Are Essential

During our conversation, Elliot emphasized the effectiveness of needlefish and darter lures, two of his personal favorites. He noted that needlefish lures are incredibly versatile, mimicking various baitfish and moving through the water naturally. Darters, on the other hand, provide a more subtle but equally effective presentation, often enticing strikes when other lures fail.

“Needlefish and darters do something no other lure does,” Elliot explained. “They sneak through the water naturally, presenting a subtle but irresistible target for striped bass.”

The Role of Color in Lure Selection

Color is often a hot topic among anglers, and Elliot had a refreshing take on it: “I don’t think color matters nearly as much as people think.” While some fishermen swear by specific colors for different conditions, Elliot believes that presentation, movement, and silhouette are far more important than the color itself.

However, he does recognize the importance of contrast, particularly in topwater lures like spooks and pencils. “When I’m fishing a spook, I want it to stand out. That’s where a bright head or contrasting back can really help,” he noted.

Conservation Efforts: Flag-Rigged Lures for a Healthier Fishery

One of the most important takeaways from our discussion was the push towards conservation-focused lure rigging. The traditional treble hook setup has long been associated with increased injury to fish, but recent studies have demonstrated that switching to a single belly hook and a flag on the rear of the lure can cut post-release mortality rates to under 4%.

“Jerry Audet and Dave Anderson have been huge proponents of this change,” Elliot said. “For me, it was an easy decision. We already knew single hooks were better for fish, and the study just confirmed it.”

The Craft of Lure Building and Future Innovations

Beyond fishing strategy, Elliot also shared insights into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each 24/7 lure. From hand-sealed and painted wooden bodies to carefully tested weighting and balance, every lure is a product of both tradition and modern innovation.

When asked about future plans, Elliot hinted at continuing to refine existing models and possibly expanding the range to include more conservation-friendly options. “I’m not here to reinvent the wheel,” he said. “But I do want to make sure we’re making the best lures possible while keeping the fishery healthy.”

Where to Find 24/7 Lures

If you’re interested in trying out 24/7 Lures for yourself, you can find them online at Saltwater Edge. Elliot also frequently attends tackle shows, offering anglers the chance to see his work in person and talk shop.

For more expert fishing insights, tackle tips, and conservation updates, be sure to subscribe to the Saltwater Edge Podcast and follow us for future episodes!

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• 24/7 Lures carries on a legacy of high-quality wooden lure craftsmanship.

• Needlefish and darters are must-have lures for striped bass anglers.

• Color matters less than presentation—contrast is more important.

• Switching to flag-rigged lures significantly reduces post-release mortality.

• Handmade lures continue to offer unmatched quality and performance.

For more information, visit 247lures.com or stop by Saltwater Edge to explore the latest in custom wooden plugs!

Travis was introduced to guiding at a very young age by his Dad Harley, who is a veteran guide on South Andros. The story goes Travis would run back to the house when he saw his dad's skiff head out for the day and "borrow" his fly rod. The gig was up when Harley pointed out "those are not my wind knots!"

Since then, Travis has earned a reputation as one of the top flats guides around. He is based at Soul Fly Lodge in the Berry Islands, Bahamas. He is an enthusiastic hunter who has observed and researched the behaviors and habits of the species that live on the flats he calls home. He has a healthy passion/ obsession with permit that never seems to fade. He has become a tremendous flycaster and a talented teacher. Impressively quick to diagnose the needed tweak in the client's mechanics. A day on the water with Travis will create a memory for sure!

Travis is on Instagram @flats_phantom

Jerry Audet is a dedicated surfcaster, who fishes both plugs and flies. He loves trying to unlock the secrets of an area or particular spot; he is far less concerned with reeling the fish in or the “fight.” As such, he has become mainly known for his in-depth discussions of fishing philosophy, structure analysis, and the nitty-gritty of surfcasting and saltwater fly fishing.

Jerry regularly contributes to Surfcasters Journal, The Fisherman, and On the Water. Jerry also is an endurance athlete, holds a Ph.D. in Physiology and a BS in Biology, and is working to help conserve the striped bass for future generations. He resides in Worchester County, MA

Learn more about Jerry at www.indeepoutdoors.com and @indeepoutdoors on Instagram and Facebook

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