WFS 528 - Yakoda Supply Products with Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller - Fly Tying, Outdoor Gear, Colorado

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/528 Presented By: Bearvault , Smitty's Fly Box , Yellowstone Teton Territory Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller of Yakoda Supply return today on the podcast to bring us up to speed on the exciting developments in their Colorado-based company. Delve into their commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and their strategic decision to keep all their products American-made. We'll also learn about some of their amazing products, including the Yakoda Gear Transport and Convertible Utility Pack. Let's join Jason and Justin for a conversation filled with insights into the world of fly fishing and the principles that drive Yakoda Supply's success. Episode Chapters with Jason Faerman and Justin Fuller on Yakoda Supply Products 02:00 - It's been two and a half years since our last catch-up with Jason and Justin, but today, they're back to fill us in on all the exciting developments at Yakoda Supply. 03:44 - Justin hails from Texas and has a background in graphic design. He initially collaborated with a friend who owned a fly shop in Boulder, Colorado. It was during a trip in 2017 that he crossed paths with Jason. 04:50 - Jason was originally from New York and made Colorado his home in 1996. His professional background spans operations and creativity, and he spent a significant part of his career as a chef. Yakoda Supply Products 07:10 - The Yakoda Gear Transport was one of their first products and is now in its third iteration. 11:30 - We discussed their commitment to keeping all their products made in the USA, which has proven to be a strategic advantage, especially during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. 17:05 - Jason and Justin shared their experience of opening their shop. Their first year of running a retail shop has been filled with surprises and positive encounters as they meet various individuals walking through their doors. 25:00 - When Justin and Jason started Yakoda, having a line of flies wasn't part of their original plan. It all started when they listed a Hot Wire CDC pattern on their website, which sold out in less than a day, surprising them. 28:00 - They've established a strong partnership with MFC, who now ties their flies. Currently, they have nearly 30 patterns in their lineup, and Justin and Jason said they don't foresee adding many more. 31:57 - Initially, they offered small fly tins on a quarterly basis, but now subscribers receive a larger fly box, known as the Slim Tin, capable of holding around 100 flies. 33:30 - They also launched monthly products, available in three-pack and six-pack options. These monthly deliveries consist exclusively of flies from the Yakoda lineup, carefully selected for the season or even the month. 34:20 - Yakoda offers subscribers not only the flies and corresponding content but also an ongoing discount code for year-round website purchases. Additionally, members can access exclusive Yakoda Fly Club products not accessible to the general public. 35:40 - One of Yakoda's standout and well-received products is their Convertible Utility Pack. 45:22 - We delved into the fishing scene in Colorado, particularly in the Boulder Creek drainage area. They primarily target wild rainbows and wild browns. 52:00 - In our conversation, we delved into the latest addition to Yakoda's lineup: the nippers. 57:00 - Jason and Justine take pride in their commitment to conservation efforts, particularly through their support of 1% for the Planet. They're also founding partners of Protect Our Rivers. Additionally, Yakoda collaborates with Indifly to protect fisheries in indigenous communities and backs Backcountry Hunters and Anglers to advocate for public land access. 59:37 - Jason and Justin love listening to music by Jerry Garcia, Waylon Jennings, and War on Drugs. 1:01:26 - According to Justin, Jason is a true-crime podcast enthusiast, often exchanging podcast links with Justin's wife. Recently, Jason has listened to Spooked and Lost Hills. 1:02:31 - Jason added that they also listen to business podcasts like Wisdom from the Top. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/528