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Fishing for a ReasonAuthor: Jamie Propst
Welcome to "Fishing for a Reason," the podcast that dives deep into the heart of fishing and the meaningful connections it brings. Hosted by Jamie Propst, founder of Anglers Unlimited, we explore the impact fishing has on our lives, communities, and environment so that you can become a more effective angler and catch more fish and have more fun every time you go out on the water or hit the hiking trails. Whether you target salmon, halibut, lingcod, crab, shrimp or fresh water species, there is something here for you.From tales of epic catches and new places to wet a line in the PNW, to discussions on life, love and business, and the latest fishing reports, "Fishing for a Reason" is your go-to source for inspiration and insight. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just casting your first line, join us as we discover the many reasons why fishing is more than just a hobbyit's a way of life. Language: en-us Genres: Sports, Wilderness Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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61: The #1 Downrigger Mistake Killing Your Chinook Fishing with John Sporting Goods' Conner Martinis
Episode 61
Tuesday, 31 March, 2026
If you fish Puget Sound — or want to — Conner Martinis of John Sporting Goods in Everett is one of the most trusted names in the region. In this episode, Conner shares his family's legacy in the fishing industry, what's keeping him up at night before the Area 10 blackmouth opener, and the new JSG Guide app that's about to change how anglers navigate Puget Sound.Episode OverviewConner's story: how a third-generation family business became the go-to resource for Puget Sound anglersWhat to expect on the Area 10 blackmouth opener — locations, pressure, and honest expectationsThe #1 mistake anglers make with downriggers (and the fix that changes everything)Gear breakdown: spoons, hoochies, plugs, and bait for spring ChinookThe JSG Guide app — interactive waypoints, AI fishing advice, tides, currents, and trip reporting in one placeTimestamps 00:00 — Introduction and Connor's background at John Sporting Goods 01:00 — Family history: from Bob's Sporting Goods to Connor taking over in 2019 04:00 — Fishing obsession, the competitive mindset, and what drives Connor 05:30 — Life after taking over: fishing schedule, weekday advantages, store hours 07:00 — Vision for John Sporting Goods and the upcoming JSG Guide app 12:00 — Where to follow Connor and how to track the app launch 13:00 — Area 10 blackmouth opener breakdown: spots, conditions, and expectations 16:00 — The #1 downrigger mistake and how to work the bottom correctly 18:00 — Bait rigs, banana weights, and anchovy setup for spring Chinook 19:00 — Spoons, hoochies, plugs: Connor's full gear breakdown 22:00 — West Coast Tackle inventory and new gear Connor is excited about 23:00 — Pro Troll's "Con Man" flasher and what's hot this season 24:00 — Most common customer question: what color is working? 25:00 — Closing question: mastering current to find more fishKey TakeawaysHit the bottom with your downrigger ball every minute — don't set it and forget it.The current — not just the tide — tells you where the bait is moving and where the fish will be.Confidence in your gear matters as much as the gear itself — fish what works and don't swap out when the bite is slow.The Killy Magee spoon has been Conner's top producer for two straight seasons.Dirty river runoff can push resident blackmouth out toward the strait — adjust expectations accordingly.Fishing during the week means less pressure and the freshest reports when you get back to the dock.Resources & LinksJohn Sporting Goods (Everett, WA): https://www.johnsportinggoods.comJSG Guide App (coming soon) — follow John Sporting Goods on Facebook and Instagram for the launchWDFW Fishing Regulations: https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulationsAnglers Unlimited Gold Membership Waitlist: https://anglersunlimited.co/goldReady to go deeper? Join the waitlist for Anglers Unlimited Gold membership at https://anglersunlimited.co/gold — expert seminars, fishing maps, step-by-step courses, and a community of anglers who want you to succeed.About the Podcast Fishing for a Reason is the Pacific Northwest saltwater fishing education podcast for new anglers and families who want to catch more salmon, halibut, lingcod, shrimp, and crab in Washington waters. Hosted by Jamie & Scott Propst from Anglers Unlimited, each episode delivers practical techniques, local knowledge, and expert insights to help you get off the couch and into the fish. Perfect for relocated professionals, military families, and boaters who are just getting into fishing.
