Why Clean Rivers Matter | Water Conservation, Fly Fishing & American Rivers with Matt Rice

Recorded at the 2026 Hunt Fish Podcast Summit at Pintail Hunting Club in Garwood, Texas, this episode of the Mudfish Adventures Podcast features Matt Rice, Southwest Regional Director for American Rivers, one of the leading nonprofit organizations in the United States focused on protecting and restoring rivers and clean water. Matt shares how healthy rivers are essential not only for fishing and wildlife, but also for drinking water, agriculture, and the future of communities across the country. With nearly 70% of Americans relying on rivers for drinking water, the health of these waterways directly impacts people, wildlife, and entire regional economies. The conversation dives into the growing challenges facing water resources across the American Southwest, including prolonged drought, rising temperatures, increasing demand from growing cities, and the need for smarter water management and infrastructure. Matt explains how organizations like American Rivers work with farmers, communities, policymakers, and conservation partners to find collaborative solutions that protect rivers while supporting agriculture and economic growth. Beyond policy and conservation, the discussion also explores Matt's background as a former Montana fly fishing guide, how fishing inspired his career in river conservation, and why connecting people to rivers through outdoor experiences is one of the most powerful ways to inspire long-term stewardship. From water infrastructure and drought in the Southwest to fly fishing adventures and the future of river conservation, this episode highlights why clean water and healthy rivers are critical for wildlife, outdoor recreation, and future generations. Topics covered in this episode: Why healthy rivers are critical for drinking water and wildlife Water challenges across Texas and the American Southwest The Colorado River drought and long-term water scarcity Water reuse, desalination, and future infrastructure solutions The connection between fly fishing and conservation How organizations like American Rivers protect waterways Why education and outdoor experiences inspire conservation Whether you are a hunter, angler, conservationist, or simply someone who depends on clean water, this episode offers a fascinating look into the future of America's rivers and water resources.