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“And for like six hours that day, it was like we were all kids again and we were throwing these streamers and making these ridiculous casts.”
– Erik Johnsen
This week Ed and Reid talk with Erik Johnsen, the Community Marketing Manager at TroutRoutes, the leading trout water mapping app designed to help anglers discover and navigate trout streams across the country. In this episode, Erik shares his journey into fly fishing, inspired by family connections and the unique waters of Wisconsin’s Driftless Region. He also discusses his role at Trout Routes, the app’s recent merger with OnX Maps, and its mission to empower anglers while respecting conservation efforts.
Join us as Erik dives into tales of fishing with family, memorable streamer days in Montana, and the balance between tradition and technology in the fly fishing world. Whether it’s sharing tips for scouting new waters, navigating stream access, or fostering a sense of community, Erik’s insights resonate with anglers at all levels.
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Takeaways
- Conservation and Access Are Intertwined: Public access to waterways is a privilege, not a guarantee. Tools like TroutRoutes can help anglers respect private land boundaries while maximizing opportunities for public fishing access, protecting both ecosystems and relationships with landowners.
- The Power of Community in Fly Fishing: The fly fishing community is small but supportive. Engaging with others, from local anglers to conservation groups, can deepen your understanding and commitment to the sport.
- Fishing as a Tool for Family Connection: Fly fishing isn’t just a solitary pursuit—it can be a bridge to connect with loved ones. Erik’s journey highlights how hobbies can help build and strengthen bonds, even across generations.
- Learning Through Failure in Fishing and Life: Missing a hook set, snagging a fly, or struggling to find fishable water are all part of the journey. Embracing these challenges can teach persistence, adaptability, and the value of trial and error.
- Fly Fishing’s Role in Personal Growth: The constant puzzle of fly fishing—reading the water, understanding fish behavior, and choosing the right gear—mirrors life’s challenges. It’s a practice of mindfulness and perseverance that can inspire growth both on and off the water.
- E-Scouting as an Off-Season Skill: Planning and scouting during the off-season can lead to incredible discoveries. Tools like satellite imagery, river mile calculators, and stream gauge data make preparation a key part of the adventure.
The Guys Fishing Weekly is a podcast dedicated to the camaraderie of men through fishing. Hosted by Ed and Reid, it’s where men gather to share not just the thrill of the catch but the deeper connections forged on the water. Each episode dives into stories, tips, and interviews that celebrate the bonds between fishermen. From tales of early morning casts to arguing about the size of the one that got away, it’s a space for men to connect over shared passions and experiences. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, here’s where you find your crew, united by the love of fishing.
