Mike Dawes
More than 30 years in fly fishing and more than 50 countries fished, from Teton trout water to permit flats around the globe.
Listen to Permit to Think
About Mike
Mike Dawes lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, with his wife, Jenn, and their two children, Cooke and Rumsey, and serves as Managing Partner of Westbank Anglers.
Mike has spent more than 30 years in the fly-fishing industry and has fished in more than 50 countries around the world. His experience spans guiding, outfitting, retail, and destination travel, and includes competing in saltwater fly-fishing tournaments. He is a U.S. Coast Guard licensed Captain and a Certified Casting Instructor.
Throughout his career, Mike has believed strongly in giving back to the resources and communities that have made a life in fly fishing possible. Volunteering his time to conservation and promoting greater professionalism within the fly-fishing industry have become increasingly important parts of that commitment.
Mike fishes for just about everything but is particularly passionate about chasing permit around the globe. When he’s not on the water or at the vise, he can usually be found traveling or in the mountains with his family.
Gear Lately
Sage · 9' 9wtR8 Power Fly Rod
“Fast and crisp for heavier rigs with minimal effort.” View at Westbank →
Scientific Anglers · Fly lineMagnitude Textured Grand Slam 10' Clear Float Tip
“Clear tip that lasts.” View at Westbank →
YETI · 35LCayo Backpack
“35L is a great travel size.” View at Westbank →
Patagonia · Wading bootRiver Salt Wading Boots II
“The best wet wading & flats boot on the market.” View at Westbank →
Orvis · 9' 6wtHelios F Fly Rod
“Really special unit.” View at Westbank →
Shilton · Fly reelCR3 Reel
“Smooth & bombproof.” View at Westbank →Conservation
We all need to get involved.
The South Fork Initiative
A Henry's Fork Foundation program focused on the health of the South Fork of the Snake River and its wild trout.
Learn more → Steering committee · CurrentSnake River Headwaters Watershed Group
A partnership of more than 100 organizations working for a resilient Snake River Headwaters with clean, ample water for current and future generations.
Learn more → Board member · PastFriends of the Teton River
Working to protect water quality, flows and fish habitat across the Teton River watershed.
Learn more →
Permit to Think
Born from 30 years of fishing travel, the people Mike has met along the way, and his curiosity about their stories. Conversations with guides, lodge owners, filmmakers and anglers.
Listen NowContact
Trip questions, podcast ideas or conservation work.