Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/584   Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/troutroutes     In this episode, McKenna Hulslander takes us on an exhilarating journey through her most recent backcountry fly fishing trip, offering insider tips and thrilling stories from the wild. McKenna reveals how she combines technology, like the TroutRoutes app, with traditional angling wisdom to enhance safety, navigation, and fish finding on remote trips. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, McKenna's insights on preparing for the unexpected, choosing the right gear, and conserving our precious aquatic ecosystems will inspire you to tackle your next fishing adventure with confidence and respect for nature. Join us as McKenna shares the highs and lows of her journey, from exhilarating catches to surviving a plane crash, all while showcasing the beauty and challenges of wilderness fishing. Episode Chapters with McKenna Hulslander on Backcountry Fly Fishing 1:22 - With a childhood rooted in the outdoor traditions of her family, McKenna was naturally drawn to the rivers and streams of northwest Montana. Her story is not just about fly fishing; it intertwines with her pursuits in athletics, notably college hockey. 8:06 - McKenna shares the inspiring journey behind her wilderness fly fishing trip in Montana, highlighting the unique blend of adventure, conservation, and education that fueled the expedition. With a desire to share this rich heritage and address the gap in backcountry knowledge among newcomers, she, alongside her videographer friend Riley, embarked on a mission to capture the essence of remote fly fishing through a documentary. The film, aimed for submission to the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T), represents a heartfelt effort to bridge generations, celebrate the sport's traditions, and encourage responsible engagement with the natural world. 14:04 - She shares her enriching experience of meeting John Fraley, a respected writer and fisheries biologist known for his significant contributions to understanding bull trout and cutthroat trout in Montana. 15:05 - She describes the process of getting dropped off in the wilderness in Montana with just a car, her pack, and a packraft from Kokopelli, setting the stage for a multi-day journey of exploration and fishing. 22:35 - She offers valuable advice for planning remote hiking and fly fishing trips, emphasizing the importance of using tools like TroutRoutes for effective trip planning. She highlights how the mobile app not only provides detailed maps but also offers crucial information like water temperature and flow rates (CFS), which are vital for ensuring safety and successful fishing experiences. Additionally, McKenna mentions the importance of monitoring water conditions before the trip to make informed decisions about fishing times and conservation efforts, especially during warmer months. 25:38 - She discusses the focus on fishing for Westslope cutthroat trout and the occasional "cutbow" (a hybrid between a cutthroat and rainbow trout) during their wilderness trip in Montana. She highlights the importance of conservation, especially concerning the endangered bull trout, explaining their decision to avoid targeting this species to align with ethical fishing practices passed down through generations. 28:16 - McKenna dives into the essential and luxury gear that made her wilderness fishing adventure memorable. She emphasizes the importance of dry bags, highlighting how co-sponsors like Kokopelli and Filson provided high-quality dry bags crucial for keeping equipment dry and safe during the float trip. Essential gear also included a Garmin GPS for navigation and a knife from Montana Knife Company, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness in remote settings. As for luxury items, McKenna shares her fondness for bringing along Backpackers Pantry's crème brûlée and indulging in beer supplied by Sacred Water Brewing Company, naming the Catc