Raised in South Africa, Jako Lucas (@captjackproductions) began fishing South Africa’s fresh and saltwater destinations at the age of four. He represented his country in various competitions throughout his youth before starting his career as a full-time guide in 2006. Along the way, he expanded his horizons to include photography and film work, establishing his own action film production company, Captain Jack Films. Jako’s guide resume includes years of working in Mongolia, Norway, and all throughout the Indian Ocean; including time spent on Astove, Cosmoledo, Farquhar, Providence, and Alphonse. He’s fished all across the globe and has won numerous awards for his film work.
WAYPOINTS Podcast: Jako Lucas Top 10 Fly Fishing Adventures
Jako lists out his personal “top ten favorite fishing adventures and destinations” and discusses lessons he’s learned from his years of international travel, some of the biggest mistakes that anglers can make when traveling, and his philosophy on “going with the flow” and being flexible.
Rapid Fire Questions
How do you recommend anglers prepare for an "off-the-grid" fly fishing experience?
“When you travel to remote locations, always try and be as physically prepared as possible. Being in shape can add so much more value and enjoyment to your trip. Many fishing locations have fairly extreme environments and can change quickly from very high temperatures to cold and difficult weather. With certain destination programs, you may have to navigate up and down mountains or wade flats for long distances. Get in shape before you go!”
What's one piece of advice you have for Yellow Dog clients?
“Read your pre-trip information and documents, and review your packing lists carefully and thoroughly. Yellow Dog sends out all the information you need, and if you read and study this material, you WILL be prepared. I have seen so many clients arrive in the middle of nowhere; unprepared and looking for something they forgot to pack because they failed to read their pre-trip documents.”
What's one thing you always bring with you on your travels?
“Everyone that knows me or has fished with me knows that I love chocolate and beef jerky (biltong). Whether you like these foods or not, I suggest that you always bring snacks along on a trip. There have been countless times where I have traveled to a destination and ended up giving away my entire supply of snacks because no one else thought to bring any! That ranks right up there with the age-old scenario where you take your significant other out to dinner: they order a salad yet constantly lean over to nibble away at your steak and fries! It’s just not cool! Bring enough snacks, jerky and nuts so that everyone (including your guides) can share. People will appreciate it and remember you as a generous travel companion.”
What are Your Favorite Fly Fishing Destinations?
What are trips that are on your bucket list?
Why Fly Fishing Destination Travel?
“Not only do you get to fish in some of the most amazing, scenic, adventurous places in the world, but you get to experience new cultures, meet new people and see what the world and Mother Nature has to offer. And best of all, get away from your day-to-day life.”
What's New in Jako's World?
“Traveling is back up and like normal, loads of destinations are dropping the testing or making it very easy. I have some very exciting hosted trips I am working on for the future. Hosted trips to Australia, Mexico, and Brazil… I have also been working on my “Jack” film for 3 years now, and should be released 2022/23!”