The post Mastering Boat Control for Two Anglers (So They Both Catch Fish appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>Before you even pick up a rod, take a moment to read the wind. Where it’s coming from will affect how the boat drifts and who has the best casting angle. In saltwater fishing, one angler usually owns the bow, but on stillwater or lakes, you can fish two fly anglers at once. However, one of them is always going to be at a disadvantage depending on the wind.
If you cast with your right hand, it’s ideal to have the wind coming over your left shoulder, which helps keep your fly line out of the way. When the boat is drifting downwind, the angler on the bow usually has the better setup. With the right positioning, they get a wide casting lane and more control over how their fly lands and moves.
As the boat drifts, your fly doesn’t come straight back toward you. It swings. For example, if you’re casting off the bow and the boat is drifting downwind, your fly will track across the water and gradually swing to the side as you strip it in. This swing mimics natural movement and often triggers bites, especially from fish like smallmouth.
Now, if you’re in the back of the boat with the same wind, you’re facing the opposite situation. Your fly might get pulled awkwardly or swing too wide. This is why positioning and planning each drift really matters, so both anglers can be set up for success.
Wind drift is manageable up to a point, but once you start drifting faster than about three-quarters of a mile per hour, it gets tricky. Your fly swings too fast, your presentations lose their edge, and you spend more time adjusting than fishing. That’s where drift socks come in.
Drift socks work like underwater parachutes. Toss one off the back corner of the boat, and it will slow your drift significantly. They also help keep the boat stable when larger waves roll in, which reduces that jerky, off-balance feeling during a fast drift.
To fine-tune things further, you can pair a drift sock with your electric trolling motor. This gives you more precise control over direction and speed, letting you stay in the strike zone longer and cover structure more effectively.
When fishing on big water, an electric trolling motor becomes one of the most useful tools in a fly angler’s setup. When it’s mounted on the bow, it allows you to move into the wind, hold your position, and work slowly along shorelines, drop-offs, and other structures with control.
You can also set a heading, known as True North, on many motors, and let the boat maintain that course automatically. This is especially helpful when you’re trying to stay hands-free while keeping both anglers fishing.
The key is finding the right speed for the conditions. On a lighter wind day, setting your motor between three and three and a half (out of ten) usually keeps the boat moving at a steady pace, around 0.4 miles per hour. That slower drift gives your fly time to swing naturally and stay in the strike zone longer.
When guiding or fishing with a buddy, try to give each person some time in the sweet spot, usually the bow. Most of the time, the angler up front gets the better wind angle and more water to work with. You can rotate between spots or plan your drifts so that everyone gets a shot at prime casting lanes.
With the right drift setup, a smart use of trolling motor speed, and a little coordination, both anglers can fish effectively and cover water like a team.
If boat control has ever left you feeling one step behind, you’re not alone. The good news is, it’s a skill you can dial in with a little practice and the right know-how. From managing wind drift to using tools like drift socks and trolling motors, a few small adjustments can make a big difference out there.
To go deeper into these techniques and see them in action, check out Jeff Liskay’s full course at Anchored Outdoors. It covers everything you need to know to stay in control, keep both anglers fishing, and make the most of every drift.
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]]>The post Raft Fishing Basics: How to Launch, Row, and Land Safely appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>When you’re using a bottomless boat like the one in this video, getting in is pretty straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step way to get started safely:
Once you’re on the water, it’s all about control. Knowing how to row in different conditions helps you stay safe, fish effectively, and enjoy the ride. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Landing safely is just as important as launching. Take a few key steps to protect yourself and your gear:
It’s easy to forget about your rod when you’re focused on rowing, but one small oversight can lead to a broken tip or a lost setup.
At the end of the day, raft fishing gives you the freedom to access water others can’t, but it comes with responsibility. Knowing how to get in and out of your raft, manage your gear, and control your boat in changing conditions makes all the difference. With a bit of practice, these skills become second nature, helping you stay safe and fish more effectively.
Want to learn more? Yos Gladstone and Josh Ziegler break it all down in their two-part rafting course, filmed in British Columbia and Montana. Learn how to prepare for your trip, row safely, avoid hazards, and more.
Not a member of Anchored Outdoors? Become a Premium Insider today and unlock the full course for FREE – plus get access to exclusive content, expert-led classes, and special member perks.
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]]>The post What to Know Before Starting the Boat on Big Water Like the Great Lakes appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>Preparation starts well before you get to the water’s edge. You should begin planning days in advance, not just the morning of your trip. Here are some important steps to consider before fishing big water:
Choosing the right launch site is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Weather, especially wind, plays a major role in determining the safest and most effective locations to launch and fish. Always think about how conditions will impact both your departure and return to the dock. Selecting a launch site that’s well-suited for the weather can make a big difference, particularly when dealing with high winds, ensuring a safer and more manageable day on the water.
Speaking of weather, it plays a massive role in the success of your fishing trip, so keeping an eye on weather apps is essential. Wind direction and speed, in particular, are key factors to watch. Strong winds can create larger waves, rendering some areas of the lake difficult to fish. Interestingly, rough conditions can make fish less cautious, increasing your chances of getting bites if you can navigate the weather safely. Additionally, keep an eye on “moving water,” which includes natural currents and wind-driven flows, as fish are often more active in areas with consistent water movement.
On large bodies of water like the Great Lakes, natural currents are always at play. These currents can be subtle but have a significant impact on fish behavior. For example, on Lake Erie, there’s a consistent west-to-east current that affects where fish congregate. Positioning yourself on the upstream side of structures can often increase your chances of success. Even on smaller lakes, pay attention to how the water moves and use it to your advantage.
Clear water is crucial when fly fishing on big water. Fish rely heavily on sight to detect flies, so it’s essential to find areas where water clarity is suitable. The right conditions will make it easier for fish to spot your lure, increasing your odds of a successful catch.
Don’t just rely on instinct – use technology to your advantage. Weather and fishing apps like Windy and iWindSurf can provide real-time updates on conditions, while NOAA’s site offers in-depth forecasts of near and offshore winds. These tools can keep you safe and help you make strategic decisions, ensuring you’re in the best position to find fish.
As you can see, fishing big water isn’t just about casting a line – it’s about preparation, understanding the environment, and making strategic choices. By planning ahead, selecting the right launch site, and using technology to monitor weather conditions, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable day on the water. Ready to dive deeper? Unlock our full masterclass, featuring expert advice from Jeff Liskay on handling big water and Great Lakes fishing. Sign up at Anchored Outdoors and elevate your fishing skills!
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]]>The post Rowing for Different Types of Fishing: Nymphs, Dry Flies, and Streamers appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>When nymph fishing, the focus is on presenting your flies at the right depth and giving them the longest drift possible. Since nymph rigs typically involve sinking flies and a bobber, you’re looking for deeper pools where the flies can sink to the proper depth – around six feet below the bobber.
To help your nymphing setup stay in the strike zone, the key is to row slowly and stay behind the fly. By doing this, you allow the flies to sink correctly and achieve a natural drift. Quick or aggressive rowing can pull the flies out of the zone too fast, reducing the number of bites you’ll get. In this case, you want smooth, quiet strokes with your oars to avoid spooking fish, especially in calm waters.
Dry fly fishing demands a more delicate approach compared to nymphing. With dry flies, particularly smaller ones, you must maintain a quiet and stealthy rowing technique. When fishing in slow-moving pools, you’re aiming to avoid disturbing the water as much as possible. Like nymphing, you’ll want to stay behind the fly, allowing for longer drifts and more opportunities for fish to strike.
However, if you’re fishing terrestrials like grasshoppers or beetles, you can afford to be a little more aggressive. In these cases, slapping the fly against the water’s surface mimics natural movement, and it’s less about stealth and more about triggering a reaction from the fish. But for most dry flies, you need to be mindful of your rowing, ensuring quiet strokes to avoid spooking the fish.
Rowing for streamers is where things change the most. Unlike nymphing or dry fly fishing, streamer fishing is all about covering a lot of water quickly and keeping tension between the angler’s line and the fly. In this method, you’re actively retrieving the fly, and any slack in the line can ruin the presentation.
To maintain tension, it’s common to angle the boat at about 45 degrees. This positioning keeps a direct connection between the fly and the angler, allowing for a proper hook set when a fish strikes. The rowing technique here often involves forward rowing, which is essential to maintain that tension and keep the fly moving at the right pace. In streamer fishing, slack is your enemy; keeping the line tight increases your chances of a successful hookup.
In fast-moving water, you’ll need to adapt your rowing technique to match the flow. Back rowing can also be effective, as it helps maintain that tight connection between the fly and the angler’s rod. The goal with streamer fishing is to cover water efficiently while ensuring that the fly remains in the optimal strike zone.
While each style of fly fishing, whether nymphs, dry flies, or streamers, requires different techniques, the role of the rower is crucial to the angler’s success. For nymphing and dry flies, staying behind the fly and rowing quietly to ensure a natural drift is key. With streamers, however, it’s all about speed, tension, and covering more water. Mastering these rowing techniques will not only improve your fishing experience but will also significantly increase your chances of landing more fish.
Looking to improve your rowing skills? Guides Yos Gladstone and Josh Ziegler take you through the essentials in their two-part series. You’ll learn how to handle different types of boats, navigate safely, avoid hazards, and get the best positioning for nymphs, dry flies, and streamers. Whether you’re new or experienced, this course has something for everyone. Sign up today at Anchored Outdoors for full access to this and other expert tutorials!
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]]>The post How to Fish Big Water with Expert Angler Jeff Liskay appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>Fishing large lakes and rivers presents unique challenges. With bigger water come more variables: changing weather, diverse fish species, and different water conditions. One of the most important things you can do is get to know the specific water you’re fishing. Whether it’s the Great Lakes or a local inland lake, understanding the terrain, currents, and fish habits will give you an advantage.
Fishing large bodies of water can be challenging due to the wide range of species available. The key is understanding which fish are active during different times of the year and under varying conditions. For example, smallmouth bass, walleye, and migratory trout each respond differently to changes in water temperature and food availability. By researching the feeding patterns and seasonal habits of your target species, you’ll be better equipped to adjust your tactics and increase your chances of success.
Having the right gear is essential when fishing big waters. Over the years, fishing equipment has evolved, making it easier to handle the demands of large lakes and rivers. Today’s technology has given anglers better rods, reels, and lines specifically designed for everything from lightweight casts to deeper waters. Investing in gear that matches the conditions you’re facing will not only make your experience smoother but also improve your chances of landing more fish.
One of the most important skills when fishing large lakes or rivers is the ability to read the water. Factors like current, water clarity, and temperature all affect where fish are likely to be and how active they’ll be. Focus on areas where the water flows slower or has more structure, as these are prime spots for fish to hide and feed. In lakes, understanding thermoclines (the layers of water with different temperatures) can help you find where fish are most active during specific seasons.
The time of year plays a crucial role in how you should approach big water fishing. For instance, early summer is an ideal time to target species like gar, catfish, and freshwater drum as they move closer to the shore. However, as water temperatures change, so do fish behaviors. Adapting your fishing techniques to the season – whether it’s adjusting your bait or where you cast – will improve your catch rate.
In big water fishing, technique is everything. Whether you’re casting to specific structures or trolling for fish in deeper water, it’s essential to adjust your method based on the conditions and the species you’re targeting. Learning to switch up your retrieve speed, cast angles, and bait presentation can make a world of difference in how many fish you bring in.
The bottom line is that mastering big water fishing is about more than just casting a line. It requires knowledge of the water, the fish, and how to adapt your gear and techniques. By following Jeff Liskay’s expert advice, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of big lakes and rivers, regardless of where you fish. If you’re ready to expand your skills and pick up more advanced strategies, be sure to check out Jeff Liskay’s full masterclass at Anchored Outdoors.
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]]>The post Jetboating: Water Reading Techniques appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>Before you start learning the techniques of jetboating, preparation is crucial. Start on familiar or less challenging waters, like a lake or calm river section, to build your confidence and get a feel for your boat’s performance. It’s also a good idea to take along a few trusted friends who can help you stay focused without distractions, as jetboating requires full attention to the water and your surroundings.
The next step is understanding the river you plan to navigate. Utilize tools like Google Earth to preview the river’s course, identify significant bends, and where rivers converge. This preliminary research provides a sense of what to expect and allows you to plan your route strategically. Additionally, engaging with online communities, such as jet boating or local fishing forums, can provide further insights and updates on river conditions. These updates include information like water levels and flow speed, which is commonly referred to as CFS (cubic feet per second).
Weather conditions significantly impact river navigation. For example, high winds can obscure water clarity and make it difficult to read the water effectively. The sun’s position is equally crucial; a low-hanging sun on the horizon can create glare, which hinders visibility and complicates your return downriver. Therefore, it’s vital to stay informed about the weather forecast and carefully plan your trip to ensure you are off the river before conditions become challenging or unsafe.
One of the best ways to learn jetboating is by observing experienced boaters. Consider hiring a local guide or joining a friend who is familiar with the river. This direct observation can be invaluable, offering a real-time tutorial on handling the river’s challenges. Guides can also provide tailored advice and demonstrate techniques specific to your chosen river, significantly enhancing your learning experience.
When navigating upriver, it’s advisable to take it slow and steady. This approach not only gives you more control but also allows you to observe and remember key features of the river, such as rock formations and rapid sections. If a particular stretch seems daunting, make a mental note of its features by looking back immediately after passing through. This helps create a visual memory of the route, which can be helpful for your return journey.
If you encounter challenging sections, consider stopping and assessing the situation on foot. Walking upriver to inspect obstacles closely can prevent accidents and give you a better understanding of the riverbed’s condition. This hands-on approach is particularly useful for beginners who are still learning to read water conditions effectively.
The primary skill in jetboating is learning to read the water’s texture. This involves recognizing patterns on the water’s surface that indicate different depths and obstacles beneath. Secondary cues include the water’s color and clarity, which can provide additional information about the riverbed’s composition. Polarized sunglasses can enhance your ability to see beneath the water’s surface, although they should complement, not replace, texture reading skills.
The bottom line is that jetboating requires a combination of preparation, research, and practical experience. By starting with calmer waters, doing thorough research, and learning from experienced boaters, you can gradually build the skills necessary to tackle more challenging rivers.
For more in-depth guidance and to advance your skills, consider joining Grant Wooldridge’s mini-course. This comprehensive class will unlock Part 2 and the rest of the chapters, providing you with expert insights and techniques to become a proficient jetboater. Sign up here to take your jetboating abilities to the next level!
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]]>The post Avoiding the Dangers of Raft and Pontoon Boat Fishing appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>The first step toward a safe fishing trip is selecting the right raft or pontoon boat. Here, you’ll want to consider the size of the waterway, the type of fishing, and the capacity needed for gear and companions. But beyond just choosing the right vessel, understanding how to maintain and care for your equipment is crucial for ensuring safety on the water.
Efficient packing goes beyond just making sure you have enough snacks for the day. It involves carefully selecting safety equipment, navigational tools, and appropriate clothing to protect against the elements. Furthermore, balancing your raft for stability and ease of access to essential items can make a significant difference in handling and overall safety.
Before you head out, get to know the river’s layout and spot any potential obstacles. Learning to read the river and anticipate changes in water flow or hidden dangers is crucial. Techniques like back-rowing and ferrying are essential for keeping control in fast-moving waters or navigating around obstacles.
When encountering sections of the river that are uncertain, it’s important for anglers to either scout ahead or carry/portage their boat around potentially dangerous areas. Taking a careful approach and prioritizing safety over trying to move quickly or letting pride guide decisions can prevent accidents. Hence, knowing when and how to get around or through challenging spots safely is a critical skill for any angler.
Understanding the types of hazards you may encounter, such as sweepers (overhanging obstacles) and strainers (water-flowing objects that can trap), is critical. Equipping yourself with the knowledge to identify and avoid these dangers and knowing how to react if you find yourself in a hazardous situation can be life-saving.
Like any skill, proficiency in navigating and fishing from rafts or pontoon boats comes with practice and experience. Begin your adventures on less challenging waters, gradually building up your confidence and abilities as you learn how the river behaves and how your boat responds to different conditions.
At the end of the day, fishing from a raft or pontoon boat is all about diving deep into nature and discovering those secret fishing spots. For those looking to up their game even further, diving into the mini-course by Yos Gladstone and Josh Ziegler is a wise decision. This course takes you through all you need to know, from planning your fishing trip to steering clear of the dangers you might face on the water. It’s packed with insights to make your fishing adventures safer and more rewarding. So, don’t delay! Sign up now and unlock the full potential of your fishing experiences.
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]]>The post Anchored Podcast Ep. 215: Rich Stuber on Watermaster and More! appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>Anchored members save 20% on Watermaster! Become a member here to unlock the code!
How does a lifelong passion for fishing turn into a game-changing business? Rich Stuber has the answer. Growing up in Montana, he spent years on the water before stepping into the world of boat manufacturing. Now, as the owner of Water Master, he’s taken a simple yet brilliant idea and turned it into one of the most innovative fishing craft companies around.
In this episode, Rich shares his journey, from working behind the scenes to owning the business while breaking down what makes Water Master Rafts so unique. Tune in for a conversation about design, durability, and how the right boat can transform your time on the water.
Rich Stuber was born and raised in Montana, where outdoor adventure was a way of life. He spent his childhood hunting and fishing, following in the footsteps of his father. Fishing started as a casual pastime, often with a bobber and worm, but as he got older, fly fishing became a bigger part of his outdoor pursuits. His love for Montana’s waters set the foundation for what would eventually become his career in the fishing industry.
After college, Rich took on various jobs, including working in a sporting goods store. But when an opportunity arose to work at Water Master, he jumped on it, even though it meant starting with manual labor, welding, and gluing boats together. Over time, he became deeply involved in the company and developed a strong connection to the product.
By 2006, Rich had the opportunity to purchase Water Master. The transition wasn’t easy, as the previous owner had struggled with debt and lacked passion for the fishing industry. With the support of his wife and business partners, Rich took over and made significant improvements, such as reinforcing seams and refining the manufacturing process. His commitment to quality and function has been key to Water Master’s ongoing success.
Unlike traditional pontoons, Water Masters are frameless, packable, and easy to transport. Each boat fits into a backpack, making it ideal for anglers looking to access remote fishing spots. Setup takes about 10 minutes, and the design allows for greater control on the water. With its low profile and high buoyancy, the Water Master provides exceptional stability while giving anglers the freedom to wade, row, or use fins for precise movement.
While pontoon boats have long been a popular choice, Rich explains why Water Masters offer several advantages. Pontoon boats require metal frames, making them heavier and harder to assemble. They also tend to sit higher on the water, making them less stable in swift currents. Water Masters, on the other hand, sit lower and have a streamlined design that allows for better tracking and maneuverability without the bulk of a frame.
One of the biggest game-changers with Water Masters is the ability to use fins while floating. Instead of relying solely on oars, anglers can slow down, match the speed of the current, and control their positioning without needing to constantly row. This hands-free fishing style allows for more precise casts and longer drifts, giving anglers more opportunities to present their flies effectively.
Water Master boats are highly customizable. Some of the most popular accessories include upgraded oars for increased rowing power, stripping aprons for line management, and motor mounts for those who want an electric trolling motor. There’s even an option for a bottom insert, turning the raft into a solid platform for standing and sight fishing.
Recognizing the demand for a larger boat, Rich and his team developed the Bruin, a two- to three-person raft that maintains the same lightweight, frameless design. With a self-bailing floor, greater load capacity, and an incredibly stable ride, the Bruin is ideal for anglers who want to bring a fishing partner, a dog, or extra gear. It has quickly become a favorite for those who love multi-day float trips.
Rich continues to innovate and refine Water Master’s product lineup, exploring new materials and designs that enhance durability and functionality. With growing interest in packable boats worldwide, Water Master is expanding its reach to Australia and New Zealand, making these boats more accessible to anglers across the globe.
If you’re ready to experience the freedom and versatility of a Water Master, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re navigating remote rivers, accessing hard-to-reach fishing spots, or simply looking for a more efficient way to explore the water, Water Master rafts are built to elevate your experience.
As an Anchored Outdoors member, you get 20% off Water Master – an exclusive offer designed to help you gear up and get on the water with the best equipment available. Not a member yet? Join today to unlock this deal and gain access to expert-led courses, exclusive content, and a passionate community of anglers.
Sign up now and start fishing smarter with Water Master!
If you haven’t checked out our latest mini-course on Raft fishing with Yos Gladstone and Josh Ziegler, check it out at https://courses.anchoredoutdoors.com/courses/pontoon-and-raft-fishing-with-yos-gladstone
Prefer to watch? Tune in on YouTube:
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]]>The post Fishing Big Water: Things to Know Before Starting the Boat appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>The post Fishing Big Water: Things to Know Before Starting the Boat appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>The post Jeff Liskay’s Fly Fishing Big Water Class! appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>Renowned angler and guide, Jeff Liskay, teaches everything you need to know about fly fishing big water. This class covers reading water, depth sounders, fly selection, rigging, presentation, boat setup, and more.
The post Jeff Liskay’s Fly Fishing Big Water Class! appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>The post Hazards While Raft and Pontoon Boat Fishing – Yos Gladstone appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>While we strongly recommend taking a hands-on course to learn proper form, this eleven chapter mini-course covers the basics of safety, preparation, river navigation, best practices and more. This is a great introduction to anglers who are thinking about purchasing a raft.
This course (and much more) is included in our Premium Membership for only $59.88! Sign up here.
Yos covers:
– Choosing a Raft
– Preparing For Your Trip
– Packing For Your Drift
– Getting in the Water
– Hazards
– Storing and Caring For Your Boat
– Rafting Ethics
The post Hazards While Raft and Pontoon Boat Fishing – Yos Gladstone appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>The post Pontoon and Raft Fishing with Yos Gladstone appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
]]>In this 10 part mini-course, professional guide Yos Gladstone teaches raft safety, river navigation, best practises and more.
This course (and much more) is included here.
Already a member? Find the series in your Masterclass dashboard!
The post Pontoon and Raft Fishing with Yos Gladstone appeared first on Anchored Outdoors.
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