Steelhead Alley Podcast

Ep. 6 (S2) - The Trout Calendar (Pt. 2)

In Part Two of the Trout Calendar series, Kyle and Pono dive into the second half of the trout year, focusing on fall and winter fishing. As water temperatures cool and the seasons begin to change, trout become more aggressive, streamer fishing heats up, and native brook trout and wild brown trout put on a spectacular fall display. The guys discuss how their tactics, mindset, and favorite fisheries evolve throughout the fall months and why many anglers consider it the best time of year to chase trout. The conversation then shifts into winter trout fishing, the unique challenges that come with cold-weather conditions, and the anticipation that starts building for another steelhead season. From fall colors and big browns to frosty mornings and thoughts of chrome, this episode explores the final chapters of the trout year and the road that leads back to Steelhead Alley.

Ep. 5 (S2) - The Trout Calendar (Pt. 1)

In Episode 5 of Season Two, Kyle and Pono kick off Part One of a two-part series exploring the rhythms and seasons of trout fishing throughout the year. Starting with the transition from winter into early spring, the guys break down how trout behavior, water conditions, insect activity, and angler expectations evolve from March through August. From cold early-season flows and the excitement of opening day, to legendary spring hatches, late-evening dry fly action, and summertime terrestrial fishing, each chapter of the trout season brings its own opportunities and challenges. Along the way, Kyle and Pono share how their approaches change throughout the year, discuss their favorite seasons to chase trout, and reflect on the moments that keep them coming back to the water. Whether you're a die-hard hatch chaser, a small-stream explorer, or someone who simply looks forward to trout season every spring, this episode is all about understanding the trout calendar and making the most of every season on the water. Part Two will pick up in the fall and winter months, where changing conditions, aggressive trout, and the anticipation of steelhead season begin to shape the final chapters of the trout year.

Ep. 4 (S2) - Fish Stories: The One That Lasts

In Episode 4 of Season Two, Kyle takes a step away from the usual format to tell a lasting fish story — one centered around a series of missed opportunities that became impossible to forget. What began as a memorable encounter quickly turned into an obsession, leading to multiple trips, heartbreaking losses, and the kind of emotional investment that only serious anglers truly understand. Through missed opportunities, close calls, and moments that still replay vividly years later, this episode explores how certain fish become more than just a moment. This is a story about persistence, frustration, mystery, and the memories that stay with us long after the water settles. It’s about the fish that keep us coming back — not because we landed them, but because we didn’t. Every angler has one. This is Kyle’s story.

Ep. 3 (S2) - Urban Runs & Rural Rivers

In Episode #3 of Season Two, Kyle and Pono dive into the contrast between urban and rural fishing — two very different experiences that shape the way anglers approach time on the water. From local creeks near town, crowded access points, and quick after-work sessions… to scenic backroads, longer drives, wild water, and the solitude that often comes with getting farther away, this episode explores what each style of fishing has to offer. The guys talk about how convenience, pressure, habitat, and overall experience shape where and how they fish. They also dive into how life changes priorities — balancing work, family, fatherhood, and limited time on the water — and how those realities often shift what anglers value most. Either way, its time on the water.

Ep. 2 (S2) - Two Trout Worlds: Stocked Streams vs Wild Water

There are two very different experiences when it comes to trout fishing — and most anglers spend time in both. In Episode #2, Kyle and Pono dive into the contrast between stocked streams and wild trout water, and how their perspectives have evolved over time. From early days fishing stocked creeks and opening day traditions, to exploring smaller streams in search of wild fish, this conversation is all about the journey. The guys talk through the differences in fish behavior, pressure, and approach — but more importantly, how your mindset shifts as you grow as an angler. What you look for in a day on the water changes, especially as life changes too — balancing time, family, and making the most of every trip. There’s no right or wrong way to fish — just different experiences that shape your path. Whether you’re fishing stocked water, chasing wild trout, or somewhere in between, this episode is about finding what keeps you coming back.