In the Bucket #19 | Steelhead Spey Fishing Arts and Culture with Dec Hogan, George Cook, Scott O’Donnell, and Joseph Rossano
Episode Show Notes
In today’s episode of In the Bucket podcast, we’re joined by George Cook, Dec Hogan, Scott O’Donnell, and Joseph Rossano—four deeply respected voices in spey fishing, fly culture, and steelhead conservation. With decades of experience guiding, designing flies, telling stories, and fighting for fish, this crew brings insight and emotion to every swing of the conversation.
We dig into the heavy realities facing steelhead today—closures, declining returns, and tough conversations around catch and release. George and Dec reflect on the evolution of gear and ethics from the early days of two-handers, while Scott shares hard-earned wisdom from guiding Alaska and beyond. Joseph brings an artist’s lens to the discussion, weaving together fish, people, and talks about The Salmon School – one of his recent projects.
We also hear about legendary waters, once-booming runs, the responsibility of the angler, and how mentorship and storytelling can keep the heart of fly fishing alive—even as the rivers change. If you’re here for history, honest talk, or a deeper connection to fish and community, this episode is for you.
Resources Noted in the Show
The Salmon School – www.thesalmonschool.com
Joe’s website – josephrossano.com
Book Scott through – flywatertravel.com
Joe – @josephgregoryrossano
George – @stateofspey, @muledeer16
Dec – @dechogan
Scott – @flywatertravel
Books Mentioned
- Fly and the Fish: Angling Instructions and Reminiscences by John Atherton
- A Trout and Salmon Fisherman for 75 Years by Edward Ringwood Hewitt
- Flying Salmon by Balfour-Kinnear
- Steelhead Fly Fishing and Flies by Trey Combs
- Greased Line Fishing for Salmon & Steelhead by Jock Scott
- Lake Fishing with a Fly by Randall Kaufmann
- Books by Roderick Haig-Brown