Episode 266 - Clayton Spiess

In this episode of the Backlash Podcast, we speak with Clayton Spiess, an experienced musky fishing guide from Eagle River. Adorned with deep-rooted family connections, Clayton offers an engaging story of his relationship with musky fishing, highlighting the thrill of the catch and his journey from carpentry to guiding full-time. He provides a heartfelt insight into his resilience in times of grief and shares his exciting professional experiences while continually evolving to venture into new fields. This episode is an exploration of musky fishing, guiding, and embracing life amidst hardships.

Our conversation with Clayton offers a comprehensive understanding of competitive musky fishing, reflecting on the journey through different fishing leagues and the invaluable community support in shaping a musky angler. We dive into his role in Musky League, discussing the innovative structure of teams, sponsors, and rewards - all contributing to the thriving community spirit. A special mention goes to the fishing opportunities in the Eagle River area, including the flourishing natural reproduction, diverse lakes, and how these waters have helped hone angling skills. Ending on an inspiring note, Clayton emphasizes maintaining a positive attitude while fishing as a cornerstone value for all anglers.

Clayton opens up about his experiences in participating in professional muskie tournament trails and shares the fundamentals of becoming an effective fishing guide. He reflects on entering the competitive landscape of the Professional Musky Tournament Trail (PMTT) and how the community, along with passion for the sport, played fundamental roles in shaping his journey. We also discuss the significance of taking breaks during tournaments, with Clayton strongly advocating the importance of continuous learning and adaptability among successful anglers. Gain insights into the thrilling world of professional tournament fishing in this episode.

Finally, our chat with Clayton takes a turn into the intriguing world of fishing tournaments, where he provides an insider's perspective into the tactical minds of top professional anglers. We delve into the impacts of sudden weather changes, explore the importance of tech in fishing, and hear about Clayton's unforgettable and action-packed seven-day trip to Lake of the Woods. This segment illuminates the unpredictable and thrilling life of a professional angler.