WFS 526 - Middle Fork of Salmon River with Colin Hughes and Nick Torres - Hughes River Expeditions, Lamson Fly Fishing, Giveaway

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/526 Join the Giveaway: https://wetflyswing.com/giveaway Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors As we set off on our raft, the pristine waters of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River gurgled beneath us, marking the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. With Colin Hughes of Hughes River Expeditions and Nick Torres of Lamson Fly Fishing, our journey through an ecosystem teeming with West Slope Cutthroat was nothing short of a dream come true. Colin, an old hand at navigating this extraordinary river, paints us a vivid picture of the river's descent of 3000 feet over 100 miles, enriching us with tales of his experiences - from casting lines for bull trout to savoring the purest water drawn right from the riverbed. Securing a permit to float down this magnificent river poses a stiff challenge, but Hughes River Expeditions, a family-run business with a rich 50-year history, ensures smooth sailing. The company's all-inclusive trips are a game changer - they've mastered the art of providing an immersive outdoor experience, complete with gourmet food, a well-stocked bar, and a chance to relax in soothing hot springs. We also chat about hunting opportunities and the wildlife you might rub shoulders with on your journey. Our expedition concludes with an exploration of the Frank Church Wilderness in Idaho, home to the Middle Fork and Main Salmon Rivers. Witness how the running season affects the rivers, and learn about the native fish species that dwell in these waters. But hold on, the adventure isn't over yet! We're giving away two spots on a Middle Fork Salmon River trip to a couple of lucky listeners. As we wrap up this exhilarating episode, we share our favorite melodies and podcasts for road trips, providing the perfect soundtrack to your own river adventure. So, gear up, tune in, and let the river lead the way. Episode Chapters - Middle Fork of Salmon River (0:00:05) - Fly Fishing Middle Fork Salmon River The Middle Fork of the Salmon River offers a lifetime experience of fishing for West Slope Cutthroat, with difficulty obtaining a permit and big fish to catch. (0:13:20) - Fishing and Boating on Middle Fork Exploring the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, we discuss oar-powered boats, fishing for bull trout, and the potential of catching 12-17-inch fish. (0:26:46) - Unplugging and History of Hatch Expeditions Hatch River Expeditions is a family-run business offering DIY trips for 50 years, now run by the speaker and his wife. (0:35:28) - An All-Inclusive Outdoor Adventure Hatch River Expeditions offers all-inclusive trips with mathematical systems, natural clocks, hot springs, cast and blast, and wildlife. (0:43:32) - Whitewater Rivers and Wilderness Exploration We explore Idaho's rivers for fishing, investigate native steelhead and Chinook salmon, and discuss the unique experience of Hatch River Expeditions. (0:48:11) - Launch Fly Shop Giveaway Shout Outs Fly Shop Friday giveaway hosted by Hughes River Outfitters, Three Rivers Ranch, Idaho Angler, Boise Anglers, and Josh Ritter's song "Idaho" discussed. (0:51:05) - Podcasts, Music, and University of Idaho We discussed the University of Idaho, Josh Ritter, "Tubs at the Club", Grateful Dead, Dave Matthews, and Hughes River Outfitters giveaway. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/526