Episode 171: Landon Mayer - Trout Hunting Wisdom

Landon Mayer is a Colorado fly-fishing guide, fly designer, author, and educator known for his expertise in hunting and sight-fishing large, selective trout. Based on the South Platte River, Landon has spent decades studying trout behavior, water dynamics, and the subtle details that separate a good presentation from a great one. He has built a reputation for pursuing difficult fish in technical water, particularly large trout that demand precision, patience, and a deep understanding of their environment. His approach combines careful observation with highly refined tactics, from reading water and spotting fish to choosing the right fly and making the perfect presentation. Landon is also the author of five books and has contributed countless articles to fly-fishing magazines and publications. Through his writing, guiding, fly design, and teaching, he has helped anglers around the world become more effective and thoughtful on the water. But among all of his accomplishments, what Landon is most proud of may be Clean the Dream, an annual community cleanup along the Dream Stream stretch of the South Platte River. The event brings anglers and members of the community together to care for and protect one of Colorado's most treasured fisheries. For Landon, it’s a chance to give back to the waters that have given so much to all of us. Whether he's behind the vise, teaching on the river, writing, or chasing a trophy trout, Landon's passion goes beyond simply catching fish. It's about understanding the river, sharing that knowledge with others, and leaving the places he loves better than he found them.