Episode 75 - JIM OLSON & ERIC THORSON – The Current State of the Big Hole River and the Fisheries of Southwest Montana

Ask Us A Question!In this episode of Waypoints, we return to the heart of one of the most important — and complex — conservation stories in the world of flyfishing: the state of Montana’s Big Hole and the rivers of southwest Montana. Nearly two years after the New York Times released an article focusing on declining fish populations throughout the region, recent data from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks suggests that there may be signs of hope and recovery for wild trout. But with mixed messages, differing perspectives, and strong emotions still swirling throughout the guide, outfitting, and recreational angling communities, the real story is far from simple. Joined by  Jim Olsen – Fisheries Biologist for Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks in the Big Hole River basin – and by Eric Thorson – co-owner of Sunrise Fly Shop in Melrose, Montana – host Jim Klug digs into the facts, revisits the concerns, and examines what’s really going on beneath the surface of these legendary waters.Why should this topic matter to anglers from outside of Montana and across the country? Because what happens in the Big Hole doesn’t stay in the Big Hole. These rivers are ground zero for a larger conversation about climate change, water use, fishing pressure, wild trout resilience, and the future of angling in the American West. Whether you’ve fished these waters for decades, or plan to someday cast a line in Montana, this episode offers critical insight into how science, community, and conservation are colliding in real time — and what that means for the future of wild trout.Waypoints is brought to you by PatagoniaTo bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world’s most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. For the past two years, the Yellow Dog Flyfishing travel team has worked closely with Patagonia to test and refine the all-new Patagonia River Salt Wading Boots II in destinations ranging from New Zealand to the Seychelles. Featured throughout the Yellow Dog Field Reports series, these boots have become the go to choice for our team thanks to their Vibram® Megagrip soles, durable quick drying construction, speed to get on and off, and support built for both freshwater and saltwater environments.- Follow us on Instagram- Follow us on Facebook- Check out our YouTube Page- View the official Yellow Dog w...