Tom has been with Yellow Dog for over ten years, starting as an intern right after graduating from the University of Montana. He has worked in every position at the company and knows it inside and out. In 2021, his role expanded to manage all programs at Yellow Dog. Originally from the Midwest, Tom is a passionate angler and spends his free time fishing in Montana with his wife and daughter. He has traveled extensively to both fresh and saltwater destinations globally. If you attend consumer shows featuring Yellow Dog, you're likely to meet Tom at the booth.
What is your favorite species (or hatch) to fish for and where?
Honestly, I would say that changes upon the day because I like to fish for everything, both fresh and saltwater. I think they're all great. If I had to pick one, I would probably say some form of trout fishing.
And if I had to pick one place to trout fish, it would be in Kamchatka, but because Kamchatka is currently not open, it would be Alaska or some other remote freshwater fishing destination.
Favorite Rod/Reel combo and why?
I've always liked Winston's. So, it probably would be a Winston rod with a Hatch reel. Just don't oversize the Hatch.
Favorite Fly Line(s)?
There are tons of great fly lines out there nowadays. I've always really enjoyed Scientific Anglers lines for both fresh and salt. So, anything from Scientific Anglers. For freshwater stuff, I really like Amplitude Infinity Smooth.
Top Flies?
Too many great ones, but if I had to name a few, anything from Cheech over at Fly Fish Food or Kelly Galloup. I really like the Cheech Leech, and Kelly ties some great streamers and also dry flies.
As for saltwater, anything from Doug McKnight.
Preferred Waders and Boots?
I've been wearing Patagonia waders and boots for the past few years and really like them. They’re durable, comfortable, and versatile. When it comes to boots, I really like the Patagonia River Salt boots. They’re perfect - not too stiff, not too soft, and durable.
What do you use for leader and tippet and why does it work well for you?
If it's Alaska or Kamchatka, I've always used Maxima Ultra Green. It's cheap, strong, and straightforward.
When fishing for trout, I really like Trouthunter tippet. And when it comes to saltwater, I love SA leaders and tippets.
Favorite Luggage and Pack System?
I love Patagonia travel bags. The Patagonia Black Hole Duffels are amazing for both fresh and saltwater travel. Patagonia packing cubes are also game changers. Bryan Gregson turned me on to those a long time ago. Basically, they help you organize your stuff so you can pack more, and you know exactly where everything is at. For example, you can use a few different cubes for shirts, pants, fishing gear, etc. Â
Favorite Accessories or Must-Have Pieces of Gear?
A good pair of pliers and nippers. I personally like Hatch and Abel. Also, a good pair of sunglasses. I like Costas with green mirror lenses.
If you were forced to incorporate one piece of tying material into all of your flies, what would it be and why?
Saddle hackles. You can do a lot with them.
What is your go-to hook?
For saltwater, the Gamakatsu SC15S and for freshwater I like the Tiemco 600SP. The Gamakatsu B10S is also a great hook.
What would your next purchase be on the Yellow Dog site?
Probably a really big Yellow Dog Gift Card.
What are your favorite destinations you've traveled to and why?
This is where it gets hard, but my honest answer would be all of them because each place is unique and different and offers something special. But three that stand out to me are Kamchatka, Australia, and Mexico.
What's on your bucket list?
Seychelles, Patagonia, and Spain.
What lodges do you really want to visit outside of your territory?
That’s another tough one, but I would say Chocolate Lab Expeditions, Wood River Ranch, and The Xflats.
Which destinations would you want to travel to from a cultural perspective?
From a cultural perspective, I'd love to visit Spain. Cuba is also amazing from a cultural perspective!
