In the Bucket #16 | Sandy River Spey Clave with George Cook, Mia Sheppard, and Josh Linn

In the Bucket Podcast
In the Bucket Podcast
In the Bucket #16 | Sandy River Spey Clave with George Cook, Mia Sheppard, and Josh Linn
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Episode Show Notes

In today’s episode of In the Bucket podcast, we’re joined by George Cook, Josh Linn, and Mia Sheppard. This is an all-star cast with considerable influence in the fly fishing industry, and together, they have contributed greatly to the way we fish today. Their combined experience includes many years of guiding fly shops, sales tackle, repping techniques, equipment development, casting instruction, event promotion, and winning three Spey-O-Rama titles. 

We also dig into the upcoming Sandy River Spey Clave in mid-May, one of the most awaited events for spey-casters. We hear how it became the “Woodstock of Spey,” drawing anglers from around the world. 

George Cook

We get into the importance of line-to-rod matching, why shorter spey rods are taking over, and how bamboo rods are still holding strong. You’ll also hear personal stories from decades of guiding, gear development, and some of the most memorable fish ever fought—like a legendary 55-pound king in Alaska that got away at “Coffin Corner.”

Josh Linn

Plus, we dive into heavier topics like the decline of Chinook salmon, bycatch issues, and how guiding and fishing are evolving for the next generation of anglers. Whether you’re coming for the clave or staying for the stories, this episode brings the energy and insight that define the spey fishing community.

Mia Sheppard

Resources Mentioned in the Show:

 Events & Community

 Gear & Brands

 Fly Fishing Destinations

  • Deschutes River (OR) – Trout and Steelhead
  • Sandy River (OR) – Winter Steelhead
  • John Day River, Grand Ronde, Clackamas River
  • Kenai & Kasilof Rivers (AK) – Chinook Salmon  
  • Mayfield Reservoir (WA) – Tiger Musky
  • Chile & Argentina – Chinook fisheries
  • New Zealand – Tidal Chinook fishing

  Additional Highlights