Fly Line Podcast

In this season finale, Michael Jones and producer Sheri Maines come together to reflect on four years of Fly Line Podcast storytelling. They look back on memorable guests and favorite moments, share what inspired them to start the podcast, and talk about what they’ve learned along the way. It’s a heartfelt close to Season 4 and a celebration of the stories, people, and passion that have shaped the...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Duncan Barnes, whose life has been shaped by a deep love of writing, fishing, and the outdoors. From his early days learning to cast in New York to a distinguished career with Sports Illustrated and becoming the editor of Field & Stream Magazine. Duncan shares the experiences, mentors, and adventures that helped define his path. He also reflects on life in...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Capt. Eric Wallace, a seasoned saltwater guide whose life has been driven by water, adventure, and the constant pull of new challenges. From a fishing-focused childhood in Michigan to steelheading in Oregon, guiding in Colorado, chasing tarpon in the Florida Keys, and poling the flats of Casco Bay, Eric shares the winding path that led him to become one of Mai...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Paul Cote, a longtime collector and dealer whose life has been shaped by Maine history, sporting artifacts, and the stories hidden inside remarkable objects. From his shop in Oxford, Paul shares the winding path that led him from small business ventures into building an extraordinary collection of sporting art, folk traditions, antique firearms, and rare Maine...

In this episode, Michael sits down with Roger Lambert, Mark Latti, and Tenley Skolfield to share the story behind Friends of Fly Rod Crosby and why Cornelia “Fly Rod” Crosby still matters so deeply to Maine’s outdoor heritage. From the new IFW headquarters in Augusta and the planned bronze statue at its entrance, to Fly Rod Crosby’s legacy as a pioneering guide, writer, and promoter of Maine, this...

In this episode, Michael is joined by writer, educator, and former Fly Rod & Reel Magazine Editor Paul Guernsey, whose life has been shaped by stories on the page and on the water. They talk about the influence of travel, and how writing and fly fishing both help us make sense of the world. Paul also shares about his newest book, 'Rolling Back the River', set to release later this month.   Epi...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Capt. Dave Pecci, a seasoned Maine guide whose career has been deeply connected to the striped bass fishery on the Kennebec River and along Maine’s coast. They talk about the evolution of this fishery from the removal of the Edwards Dam to ongoing environmental and political pressures, while Dave shares his perspective on conservation, fisheries management, an...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Carroll and Lila Ware of Fins and Furs Adventures, and John and Tami Rogers of the Maine Outdoor Learning Center. Together, they look back on decades of teaching new guides, stories from the field, and the friendships forged along the way. They share news of Carroll and Lila’s retirement and the merging of their guide school with John and Tami’s, reflecting on...

In this episode, Michael is joined by John and Nate Wight, a father and son whose lives have been shaped by the rhythms of Maine’s rivers, woods, and guiding traditions. From stories on the Allagash to quiet moments of connection between generations, their story is a heartfelt look at legacy, resilience, and the deep bond forged through life in the wild. Episode Release: 12/16/2025 S4E4: John &amp...

In this episode, Michael is joined by legendary Maine broadcaster Bill Green, whose voice and storytelling have been a staple in Maine homes for decades. From his early days behind the camera to capturing the heart of the Maine outdoors on screen, Bill shares his journey, his deep love for the state, and unforgettable moments from a life spent in the wild and on the air.   Episode Release: 11/25/2...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Paul Ostiguy, a seasoned lodge owner and passionate angler whose love for travel fishing has shaped a life of bold ventures and uncharted waters. From world-class brook trout and ouananiche (landlocked Atlantic salmon) to managing the challenges of operating world-class operations in remote settings, Paul shares unforgettable stories and insights from decades...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Shawn Gorman, Chairman of L.L. Bean and great-grandson of the company’s iconic founder. From his unique path into the family business to leading one of the most beloved outdoor brands in the world, Shawn shares a powerful story of growth, family legacy, and a deep-rooted love for the outdoors. Tune in as they explore the evolution of L.L. Bean, the values that...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Capt. John Rogers, whose path to becoming a highly respected Maine Guide is anything but ordinary. From his roots in Freeport to running a family restaurant, becoming a Sea Captain in the Florida Keys, and eventually founding a successful guide school in Maine. John’s journey is a testament to reinvention, passion, and the power of living your life in the outd...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Reggie Hammond, a seasoned Maine warden whose career has taken him from the deep woods of Maine to some of the most remote fishing waters in the world. With decades of experience in wildlife law enforcement and a lifelong love for angling, Reggie shares thrilling stories of chasing poachers, exploring legendary fisheries, and living at the intersection of cons...

In this episode, Michael is joined by Alex Poland, whose life is a unique blend of creativity, adventure, and living his best life in the great outdoors. From painting inspired by Maine’s wilderness to building a yurt retreat, Alex shares his journey of balancing artistry, fishing, and entrepreneurship in Western Maine.   Episode Release: 3/11/2025 S3E10: Alex Poland, “Artist, Guide, and Yurt Retr...

In this episode, Michael is joined by special guest co-host Bill Pierce as they welcome a true Maine fly fishing legend, Aldro French. Together, they dive into Aldro’s lifetime of adventures, from guiding on the Rapid River to winters at Forest Lodge. With stories of legendary fishing days and lifelong friendships, Aldro brings humor, history, and heart to every tale.   Episode Release: 2/25/2025...

In this episode, Maine’s Department of Marine Resources Commissioner, Pat Keliher, invites Michael to his HQ and shares his remarkable journey of guiding through challenging waters, transforming fisheries, and leading conservation efforts. With insights into the evolution of the striped bass fishery and Maine’s commercial fisheries future, this is a compelling story you won’t want to miss!   Episo...

Join us for an inspiring episode as Michael sits down with Josh Brown, who shares the story of his powerful journey from military service to finding purpose and fulfillment through the art of crafting custom landing nets in Maine.   Episode Release: 1/21/25 S3E7: Josh Brown, a “Veteran Finding Purpose in Crafting Landing Nets” www.flylinepodcast.com   #flyfishing #maineveterans #woodcraft #mainefl...

Join us as Michael sits down with Glenn Grant, a remarkable figure in Rangeley’s wilderness, sharing tales of fly fishing history and family legacies.   Episode Release: 1/7/25 S3E6: Glenn Grant, a "Living Legacy of Rangeley Sporting History" www.flylinepodcast.com   #flyfishing #fishing #fishingmaine #maine #maineflyfishing #fishme #luminaries #michaeljones #grantscampsmaine #grantscamps #Outdoor...

Join us as Michael talks with Rangeley's best-known Maine Guide, Kris Thompson, who shares his expert insights, stories of guided brook trout adventures, and his perspective on building a lifelong guiding career.   Episode Release: 12/17/24 S3E5: Kris Thompson, the "Master of Rangeley Brook Trout Pursuits" www.flylinepodcast.com     #flyfishing #fishing #fishingmaine #maine #maineflyfishing #fishm...

Join us for our second episode of two with Leslie Hilyard as the conversation deepens, exploring the remarkable legacy of Herb Welch. Leslie shares fascinating insights uncovered in exploring the background and history surrounding this Legendary Maine Guide from Oquossoc, including the unexpected tale of an unsolved murder mystery, revealing how every story can lead to surprising and captivating d...

We are excited to share the first of two episodes, where Michael and Leslie have a delightful conversation about Leslie and his father's remarkable work in writing a book that honors a Maine legend, Carrie Stevens, and her incredible impact on the world of fly fishing as a historical breakthrough fly tyer.   Episode Release: 11/12/24 S3E3: Leslie Hilyard, a "Keeper of Maine’s Fly Fishing History”...

Join Michael and Sue Daignault for a remarkable conversation about recovery, the great outdoors, and finding solace in 'A Full Net'.   Episode Release: 10/29/24 S3E2: Sue Daignault, a "Voice of Purpose and Authenticity." www.flylinepodcast.com   #flyfishing #fishing #fishingmaine #maine #maineflyfishing #fishme #luminaries #michaeljones #MaineGuide #OutdoorLife #FishingCommunity #FlyLinePodcast #m...

Join us for an amazing conversation about perseverance and passion with Bonnie Holding. Hear about Bonnie's journey breaking barriers in the fly fishing world and inspiring a new generation of women anglers.   Episode Release: 10/15/24 S3E1: Bonnie Holding, a “Living Legend For Women Fly Fishing” www.flylinepodcast.com   #flyfishing #fishing #fishingmaine #maine #maineflyfishing #fishme #luminarie...

Join us as Michael sits down for a deeply touching conversation with Jeff Davis of Maine Fly Company. Learn how craftsmanship meets passion, where every fly rod is not just a tool but a piece of art with a story.     Episode Release: 3/19/23 S2E12: Jeff Davis, the "Visionary Behind Maine Fly Company" www.flylinepodcast.com   #flyfishing #fishing #fishingmaine #maine #maineflyfishing #fishme #lumin...