Hopelessly Addicted to Native Trout with Steve Vedra and Matt Perkins
Episode 175 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – July 16, 2026.
Our destination is the American West with Steve Vedra and Matt Perkins, two Indiana fly anglers who have become hopelessly addicted to chasing native trout. Join us as they share incredible stories of 33-mile backpacking trips, remote floatplane drop-offs, torn ACLs, massive blowdowns, and the relentless pursuit of some of North America's rarest fish. From California to Alaska, Oregon to Arizona, Matt and Steve prove that the greatest rewards often lie far beyond the trailhead.
In this episode:
- Why two Indiana anglers became hopelessly addicted to chasing native trout.
- The 33-mile backpacking trip for one of the rarest trout in North America.
- What happened when a floatplane left them alone in the Alaskan wilderness.
- Surviving torn ACLs, massive blowdowns, and torrential rain in pursuit of wild fish.
- How they research and plan ambitious DIY fly fishing expeditions across the American West.
- Lessons learned from years of exploring remote rivers few anglers ever see.
- Tips for anglers interested in taking on the Western Native Trout Challenge.
- Why the greatest adventures often begin where the trail ends.
With host Steve Haigh | Destination Angler Podcast — THE podcast for anglers who travel.
Connect with Matt: Facebook & Instagram: @Mperkins03
Connect with Steve: Facebook & Instagram: @SteveVedra
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Recorded Jan 3, 2026
