EP 9: Visibility, Vision, and the Vow to Fish – Capt. Lael Johnson’s Real Journey

In this powerful episode of On The Real, host Bob Bartlett sits down with Pacific Northwest fishing guide and filmmaker Captain Lael Johnson. Lael shares his journey from growing up in Topeka, Kansas to becoming a respected steelhead and salmon guide on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. He opens up about the struggles he faced along the way, the leap of faith it took to follow his passion, and the profound role fishing has played in his mental health and personal growth. Lael also talks about launching the FYSH Foundation—For Your Sanity & Happiness—and how it’s creating inclusive outdoor spaces for people of all backgrounds. The conversation dives into the making of his recent film Visibility, the importance of representation in fly fishing, and what it really means to live a purpose-driven life on and off the water. This is a raw, honest, and uplifting episode you won’t want to miss.

Episode Notes - 

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/laelpauljohnson/
• Website - https://flygyde.com/
• Fysh Foundation - https://www.fyshfoundation.org/

Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.

Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.

Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.