In the Bucket #20 | Steelhead Stewards of the Pacific Northwest with Trevor Covich and Ed Fuhrken of Waters West Fly Fishing Outfitters

#818 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/818

Presented By: Waters West

In today’s episode of In the Bucket podcast, we’re joined by Trevor Covich and Ed Fuhrken of Waters West Fly Fishing Outfitters. Both are long-time stewards of Pacific Northwest steelhead, guiding anglers while battling issues like habitat loss, hatchery impacts, and river access.

They talk about what it’s like behind the fly shop counter: the tension between preserving wild runs and serving a growing demand for steelhead experiences. You’ll hear stories about closures, managing stock versus wild fish, and how trout tactics don’t always translate to steelhead crisis zones. Trevor and Ed also reveal the subtle art of timing your swings, staying wet when it counts, and treating every steelhead encounter like it matters—not just for you, but for the rivers downstream.

Along the way, you’ll pick up practical advice: what fly anglers can do to reduce mortality, how to engage with managers and neighbors about river health, and why education and access matter just as much as gear. If you care about fish, fair futures for rivers, and how fly fishing can be part of the solution, this episode lands hard and hopeful.

#818 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/818