652 | Fly Fishing Newfoundland with Ryan & Les Wentzell and Rod Brophy - Lee Wulff, Atlantic Salmon

Wet Fly Swing Fly Fishing Podcast

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/652

Presented By: Togiak River Lodge, FishHound Expeditions, Angler's Coffee, Stonefly Nets

What if I told you there's a place where you can fish the same waters as Lee Wulff and have a great chance at catching an Atlantic salmon on the fly?

Today, we will dive into the rich history and present-day fly fishing Newfoundland with the head guides from Mountain Waters Resort, Ryan & Les Wentzell and Rod Brophy.

You'll discover the secrets of fishing the riffle hitch, why you should stay put in the pools instead of stepping down, and even why 4-lb tippet is the go-to at certain times of the year. Plus, learn how to hook a giant Atlantic salmon like Lee Wulff did.

Show Notes with Ryan, Les, and Rod on Fly Fishing Newfoundland.

02:35 - Ryan grew up at the lodge, which his parents, Les and Paulette Wentzell, and two other couples purchased. The 170-acre property was originally owned by Lee Wulff.

05:23 - The lodge is in Daniels Arbor, Newfoundland, a small town with a rich fishing history. After nearly 30 years of operation, Ryan took over the lodge in 2019 and has been upgrading it ever since.

The Riffling Hitch

10:05 - Rod uses surface fishing with dry flies, like bombers, all year long. The riffling hitch creates a wake on the water, which makes it easier to spot the fish. This method is better than just using a regular wet fly.

Rod mentioned that even big fish, up to 40 pounds, have been caught using this technique, and it’s essential for consistent success.

20:17 - Les shares that Lee Wulff flew his float plane from New York to Newfoundland in the 1940s. He explored the rivers and set up fishing operations, including at Portland Creek. When a road was built nearby in 1956, Lee moved on to other projects.

28:11 - Rod shared how you can still fish in the spots where Lee Wulff used to catch fish. Many spots are still popular today. The area also offers amazing trout fishing, especially in nearby lakes.

Fly Fishing Newfoundland

30:02 - Ryan explained how people get to their fishing location. Most folks fly into Deer Lake Regional Airport, about two hours from the fishing area.

Once they arrive, Ryan's team picks them up, and they can start fishing immediately. Some people drive all the way, but that takes longer with a 10-hour ferry ride from Nova Scotia.

32:52 - Most guests focus on Atlantic salmon, but there’s also great brook trout fishing in the area. They can also visit spots like the River of Ponds and see salmon at Hawke's Bay. Plus, if you're interested in cod fishing, that’s an option too.

35:04 - Rod says that catching Atlantic salmon is very likely, even for new anglers. He suggests using a 9 ft 9 wt rod and casting at a 45-degree angle across the river. The key is to adjust to the conditions and pay attention to the guide’s tips for a successful catch.

40:46 - Rod advises staying in one spot for at least an hour when fishing for Atlantic salmon. He explained that fish often settle in large pools, and you might be fishing over 25 to 30 fish in one spot.

Ryan shares a cool story about Henry Green, who fished at their place from 1957 to 2022. Henry was a big part of their history; loved salmon fishing and bird watching.

Check out this video of Henry Green.

1:00:13 - Ryan highlights all the cool stuff to do in Newfoundland besides fishing. Gros Morne National Park is close by with boat tours and hiking.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/652