Podcasts

Episode 3 - Wild-er-ness, Not Wild-less-ness with Steve Zettel

EPISODE 3: OUTFITTER DAY, LEGISLATIVE UPDATES, AND PROTECTING THE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE In this episode, IOGA Executive Director Erik Weiseth and Policy Director Jack Hurty recap a busy week at the Idaho State House, including the annual "Lobby Day" and Wild Game Dinner. They provide critical updates on legislation affecting public lands, working animals, and wildlife crossings. The second half of the episode features a deep-dive interview with outfitter legend Steve Zettel of Idaho Wilderness Company. Steve discusses the *"Not In Wilderness" Coalition*, a movement dedicated to preserving the philosophical and spiritual heart of the wilderness experience from the intrusion of modern technology and constant connectivity.


From Swimming the Salmon to Capital Hill - Roy Akins

In this week’s episode of the IOGA podcast, hosts Erik Weiseth and Jack Hurty break down the high-stakes legislative and federal issues currently facing Idaho’s outfitting and guiding industry. From "dueling" constitutional amendments at the State House to the potential "Pandora's Box" of Resource Management Plan (RMP) challenges, this episode covers the critical updates every member needs to know. FEATURED INTERVIEW: ROY AKINS – THE VOICE FOR IDAHO’S RIVERS The highlight of this week’s episode is a deep-dive interview with Roy Akins, a living legend in the Idaho guiding community. Roy is the owner of Rapid River Outfitters in Riggins and a tireless advocate for the recovery of salmon and steelhead. 

  • *Advocacy in Washington D.C.*: Roy and Jack share behind-the-scenes insights from their recent trip to the nation's capital. They discuss the critical mission of educating lawmakers on the economic necessity of anadromous fish and the direct impact of declining runs on rural Idaho "river towns". 
  • *The "Salmon Survival Swim"*: Beyond policy, the conversation takes a legendary turn as Roy details his "Salmon Survival Swim"—an incredible feat where he *swam the entire length of the Salmon River*. 
  • *A Call for Future Legends*: In a moment of classic river-runner wit, Roy mentions he is looking for a partner to join him in doing the swim again.