- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Now I know that graphite blanks have a *backbone* or *spine* and the line guides are suppose to be lined up in some relative position to that spine, I have long forgotten the details. My first question: Is it possible that the second time around I did not get the guides correctly on the blank? Yes, if you never splined the original or the new tip. How can I check? I’m sure it should match the way it was done on the butt section. Hold the rod out straight (parallel to the ground) and flex it up and down. When it moves straight up and down, the spline is either on the top or the bottom. If you notice that the tip and rest of the rod seem to be "out of sync," rotate the tip and see if you can get an obvious straight up and down.
Just to clarify, when you _attempt_ to flex the rod in a vertical plane, if it actually moves slightly off from straight up and down, the spline is not in the vertical plane. When the spline is in the vertical plane, the rod will move straight up and down, and you then know that the spline is either on the top or bottom. TC, R
It’s SPINE, not SPLINE, dammit! /daytripper (!)
It’s SPINE, not SPLINE, dammit!
Er, actually, it’s a poTAto POtato thing…both are widely used, and really, both make about as much sense as the other. Remember that although there is only one "high point" on the rod, it affects it in a plane. TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -/daytripper (!)
It’s SPINE, not SPLINE, dammit!
How do you know that? I’ve seen the both words used depending on who’s doing the writing. Clemens uses spline in all three of his books on rod building, for example. Willi
It’s SPINE, not SPLINE, dammit! How do you know that? I’ve seen the both words used depending on who’s doing the writing. Clemens uses spline in all three of his books on rod building, for example.
I’m pretty sure that’s where I picked it up, because IIRC the older guys I originally learned rod "making" from used older bamboo terms like "strong"/"weak flat," "crown(ed)," etc. I can’t remember if they used "spline," "spine," or either. TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Willi
Now I know that graphite blanks have a *backbone* or *spine* and the line guides are suppose to be lined up in some relative position to that spine, I have long forgotten the details.
Have a look here; http://www.flyanglersonline.com/begin/graphite/part7.html My first question: Is it possible that the second time around I did not get the guides correctly on the blank? How can I check? I’m sure it should match the way it was done on the butt section. If I find that I did do it incorrectly, can I fix the rod? How would I remove the old guides without damaging the blank?
Usually yes. It depends how you put the guides on. How do I find the correct place to put new ones on the blank?
See the URL above. TL MC
Just to clarify, when you _attempt_ to flex the rod in a vertical plane, if it actually moves slightly off from straight up and down, the spline is not in the vertical plane. When the spline is in the vertical plane, the rod will move straight up and down, and you then know that the spline is either on the top or bottom.
Please clarify, how do I flex the rod? Do I just wiggle it up an down or just press it up against something to bend it down? Hope that doesn’t seem like a silly question. Thanks, Russell
Now I know that graphite blanks have a *backbone* or *spine* and the line guides are suppose to be lined up in some relative position to that spine, I have long forgotten the details. Have a look here; http://www.flyanglersonline.com/begin/graphite/part7.html
Thanks for the link. Here are a couple of paragraphs from the link: How do you get it right? Simple, you locate the spine of the blank. To do this, place the tip of the rod blank on the floor, hold the butt end with one hand and apply some moderate pressure to the middle of the blank with the index finger of the other hand. With the tip of the blank bent, turn the rod with the hand that
To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead? — Citizen Fisherman
To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead?
KY Jelly? –Steve
Well, I’ve got plenty of that… — Citizen Fisherman
To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead? — Citizen Fisherman
Kissass…… –waldo
LO fucking L
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead? — Citizen Fisherman Kissass…… –waldo
Fine by me. I’ll just keep buying and using Gink. — Citizen Fisherman
Fine by me. I’ll just keep buying and using Gink.
Eh, what the hell… Better check with the manufacturer of your Inflato-sheep, Sybil…I hear it eats through that kind of cheap vinyl… …and if the owner(s) of the name "Inflato-sheep" wanna sue me, I have something else they can wrap their lips around and attempt to inflate…
Inflato-sheep? I’m sorry. I’m not familiar with that product. Perhaps you could fill us in… — Citizen Fisherman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Fine by me. I’ll just keep buying and using Gink. Eh, what the hell… Better check with the manufacturer of your Inflato-sheep, Sybil…I hear it eats through that kind of cheap vinyl… …and if the owner(s) of the name "Inflato-sheep" wanna sue me, I have something else they can wrap their lips around and attempt to inflate…
Any Loon product would be worth the investment. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead?
Inflato-sheep? I’m sorry. I’m not familiar with that product. Perhaps you could fill us in…
Yup, as I suspected – <yawn…OK…try eBay… Come on, Sybil, I KNOW you got it in ya – you can be a veritable gold mine…
Any Loon product would be worth the investment.
Um, well, wouldn’t that be the same…oh, you mean the OTHER Loon product…oh, geez, another innocent victim is gonna hear from the team of "Bert, Ernie, and Oscar, LLP"….frankly, and this isn’t a legal opinion, he just might a have a case there, first use and all… TC, R
I’m completely in the dark here. You don’t use floatant with bass bugs. Can somebody overcome their repulsion long enough to give me the scoop. I DO NOT want to show up at any trout stream with this Gink shit. (smooch)… — Citizen Fisherman I’m starting to grow on you, admit it. Don’t worry. The Doctor can prescribe an ointment… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any Loon product would be worth the investment. Um, well, wouldn’t that be the same…oh, you mean the OTHER Loon product…oh, geez, another innocent victim is gonna hear from the team of "Bert, Ernie, and Oscar, LLP"….frankly, and this isn’t a legal opinion, he just might a have a case there, first use and all… TC, R
Inflato-sheep? I’m sorry. I’m not familiar with that product. Perhaps you could fill us in… Yup, as I suspected – <yawn…OK…try eBay… Come on, Sybil, I KNOW you got it in ya – you can be a veritable gold mine…
See, that’s the thing about high expectations. Wolfgang who knows that tetherballs really DO rule the universe
To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead? — Citizen Fisherman Kissass…… –waldo
post of the fucking month. who loves ya, waldo! (how’s that for kissass, you lying scumbag?)
Wolfgang who knows that tetherballs really DO rule the universe
Sad, oh so sad, but true. MC
Right before my innocent eyes, I saw this perfectly sane, highly intelligent man go banana! He was last seen with a spade in hand, digging this big hole. After a few hours, he climbed out, pulling the ladder out after himself, picked up his fly fishing vest and threw it into the hole. Two hours later, it was all filled back end. Satisfied, he picked up a little bottle of Gink and one of Xink, put them into his shirt pocket and smiling in great satisfaction, returned the spade to his pal, Harrison. Observing his beaming face, "Mr. Harrison, esq." asked, "How’d it go?" "I learned him!" he smiled. Wayne Harrison could see the tears welling up in Waldo’s eyes so he took him in his arms to comfort him as he sobbed these deep, throbbing sobs of relief. "Don’t you feel better now that you buried that bottle of World Excellent Product Gink & Xink?" Waldo stiffens and backs off with this blank, far away look. His lower lip begins to quiver and his right hand shoots to his mouth for self control. He bites down on his shooting finger and then, suddenly he lets out this horrifying, Arrrrgggguuuhhhhhhhhh! The last we saw of this scene as the reporter peaked over the back fence was Wayne Harrison handing the spade back to Waldo and walking away, slowly shaking his head. Waldo collaped where he stood until Winter’s White Wagon fetched him up to deliver him home to the new mound, still fresh . . . and somewhere, there, deep down in the earth, a vest full of flies waited for the return of what he still had in his shirt pocket. We love you Walt. Hang tough man. You’re going to make it yet! Your Pal in the Great N.W. State of Washington, George Gehrke – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead? — Citizen Fisherman Kissass…… –waldo
george.vcf
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Right before my innocent eyes, I saw this perfectly sane, highly intelligent man go banana! He was last seen with a spade in hand, digging this big hole. After a few hours, he climbed out, pulling the ladder out after himself, picked up his fly fishing vest and threw it into the hole. Two hours later, it was all filled back end. (in?) Could it be "IN?" Heads yes, Tails no. Satisfied, he picked up a little bottle of Gink and one of Xink, put them into his shirt pocket and smiling in great satisfaction, returned the spade to his pal, Harrison. Observing his beaming face, "Mr. Harrison, esq." asked, "How’d it go?" "I learned him!" he smiled. Wayne Harrison could see the tears welling up in Waldo’s eyes so he took him in his arms to comfort him as he sobbed these deep, throbbing sobs of relief. "Don’t you feel better now that you buried that bottle of World Excellent Product Gink & Xink?" Waldo stiffens and backs off with this blank, far away look. His lower lip begins to quiver and his right hand shoots to his mouth for self control. He bites down on his shooting finger and then, suddenly he lets out this horrifying, Arrrrgggguuuhhhhhhhhh! The last we saw of this scene as the reporter peaked over the back fence was Wayne Harrison handing the spade back to Waldo and walking away, slowly shaking his head. Waldo collaped where he stood until Winter’s White Wagon fetched him up to deliver him home to the new mound, still fresh . . . and somewhere, there, deep down in the earth, a vest full of flies waited for the return of what he still had in his shirt pocket. We love you Walt. Hang tough man. You’re going to make it yet! Your Pal in the Great N.W. State of Washington, George Gehrke To my horror, I just checked my fly vest and found a bottle of each. I will seal them and bury them to a safe depth. What should I use instead? — Citizen Fisherman Kissass…… –waldo
george.vcf
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Well, I’ve got plenty of that… — Citizen Fisherman
And here I thought you were a real man!
I’m not real… — Citizen Fisherman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well, I’ve got plenty of that… — Citizen Fisherman And here I thought you were a real man!
I recommend potassium cyanide mixed 50-50 with DMSO. It only works, though, if you apply it with bare hands.
Now, _that’s_ funny!!
Right before my innocent eyes, <sumthin snipped yer just green cuz i got nominated fer "post of the month"…. –waldo
yah, I know . . . but did the final vote come in yet? Its hard for a dang yankee like myself fighting that N.C. political coalition. You have the edge on me pal. I’ll settle for "Honorable Mention"
george.vcf
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Right before my innocent eyes, <sumthin snipped
yer just green cuz i got nominated fer "post of the month"…. –waldo
This is a public service announcement, by a concerned private individual. The author of the above post, has lied, cheated, and stolen from members of this newsgroup. He is also known for his tendency to vitriolic abuse of a severe and personal nature, barely intelligible ranting of an insulting nature, completely ridiculous and self aggrandising stories also invariably of an insulting nature, and for spamming his products incessantly. Past experience has clearly demonstrated that it is best to avoid any contact with him, if one wishes to avoid trouble. This announcement is not an opinion on his products, or an opinion on the person concerned, it is simply a statement of fact, and a well meant warning. Various methods have been tried to rid the group of this person, but due to the nature of usenet, and as he apparently possesses neither shame, nor morals, to any discernible degree, and has a wide range of ISP
Perfectly true, I also started with a seven weight rod. Far too heavy for most things I do, but I had no choice at the time, and was completely uninformed in any case. I do feel that people tend to divorce the equipment from the intended purpose too much. It may well be easier for a beginner to cast with a nine foot six weight rod and a weight forward line, but this is rarely the optimum equipment for actually fishing. If possible for stream fishing, I would probably choose a four weight about eight feet in length, if I was restricted to one rod. This offers delicacy and lightness, which are more conducive to stealthy fishing. I have several six weight rods, and although I do use them occasionally, I have not used them for stream fishing for a long time, they are just too heavy. This is not to say that they can not be used, but for me the experience is enhanced by the use of light delicate equipment which is suited to the job at hand. TL MC — "Where fishing is concerned, most anglers are basically manic excessives" http://www.mikeconnor.de This is not directly about rod choice, but indirectly it is. Especially
<SNIP
This is not directly about rod choice, but indirectly it is. Especially for someone fishing small to medium sizes streams and rivers for trout, distance casting is not as important as the ability to place a short cast where you want it and in a relatively delicate, controlled manner. When trying out a new rod, the natural inclination seems to be to see how long of a cast you can make with the rod. The fact is most of your fishing is going to be on casts thirty feet or less. The rod that is best for belting a cast may not be the best for you at close distances. Based on my definition of a small to medium stream or river, I would recommend a four or five weight to start. I started with a six weight but now find it is either too heavy or too light for most fishing. It is my least used rod. For me, control in close is easier with a moderate or slower action rod. Willi
I would start with an 8 1/2′ five weight. You can fish almost any water with that size rod and fish it comfortably.
….a rod like this one Wayne? john http://www.ezflyfish.com/grfoutfits.html
….a rod like this one Wayne? john http://www.ezflyfish.com/grfoutfits.html
Tis what I started with. — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas
As an instructor (ahem) I find that most of my adult male clients prefer a fast actioned 9′0 5/6wt rod. Floating line (because of its bright colour) is usually easier to see – and I reckon for a beginner FF is an extremely visual sport. Ladies seem prefer a lighter rod to start with. Around 8′0 and 4/5 wt is ideal. Not meaning to be sexist but I find that the ladies don’t like to wave a heavier rod around for too long. The longer you can keep the rod in their hands, the easier it is to keep them interested. Kids up to the age of 10ish or 11ish go for the shorter rods – 7′6" 3/4 wts. They understand that you don’t have to cast too far out to catch a fish. I spent an interesting weekend watching a 5 year old cast tighter (and further) loops on his 2/3wt 7′0 rod than most adults could. Allways fast actioned is the secret though in my opinion. Most beginners hava a tendency to false cast too rapidly, which can be a problem on slow rods. Ari Ari Bert Gaelle Bert +27 (0) 83 232 9903 +27 (0) 83 236 5308 Flyfishing Corner +27 (0) 11 447 7230 Shop 94, Admirals Court +27 (0) 11 882 8537 (fax) Cnr Craddock & Tyrwhitt www.troutfishing.co.za Street, Rosebank P.O.Box 79067 Senderwood 2145 South Africa
With all the manufacturers to choose from, I can sure use some assistance. I’ve read all kinds of interesting things about what to purchase. Here’s what I’mlooking for. I fish small to medium sized streams for trout. I read that an 8′6wt is a perfect first setup. I also read that if you’re over 5′8, buy 8.5′rod and under 5′8 buy a 7.5 rod. All advise a slow to med action rod.
First off, forget that height to rod length crap unless you’re 10 years old. Myth Second, While I personally beleive a slow-medium action rod is a better rod, until you have a casting stroke it is a moot point. There are some people who say a fast action rod is a better rod to learn to fish on. Third, eventually several folks will ring in suggesting everything from a Cabelas to a top of the line Sage, In your price range there are several good rod and reel combos available from many makers. But each rod is a little different and each will require an adjustment from the fisherman. What might be a good rod to your buddy or one of us could be a poor tool for you. I would ignore and stay away from the Cabelas and the Bass Pro’s unless you are near one of the stores, because one, I have a minority view that they are pieces of crap and secondly read the next paragraph. I believe the best way to learn to fly fish is to obtain lessons from someone, while some colleges and clubs offer lessons, and some folks can even learn from video, the place you are going to get the most help initially is probably your local fly shop. If you must, buy your third and fourth, etc (its’ a disease I own some 30+ rods and reels)from the mail houses, but to start use a local dealer, have them give you the basic lessons in how to get started, (many schools or shops with lessons supply the equipment), try as many rods as you can once you get the basic stroke down and then decide what fits your needs and your style. You can save yourself a big headache later. I’ve been eyeing the Orvis Clearwater and the St. Crouix Pro- graphite.
About 6 years ago, St. Croix rods had a breakage problem, but they have a good following, Orvis speaks for itself. Also look at Reddington, Scott Alpha, Sage Discovery, T&T Emerger and Courtland among others. I would start with an 8 1/2′ five weight. You can fish almost any water with that size rod and fish it comfortably. – Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas
With all the manufacturers to choose from, I can sure use some assistance. I’ve read all kinds of interesting things about what to purchase. Here’s what I’m looking for. I fish small to medium sized streams for trout. I read that an 8′ / 6wt is a perfect first setup. I also read that if you’re over 5′8, buy 8.5′ rod and under 5′8 buy a 7.5 rod. All advise a slow to med action rod.
An 8′ 6wt??? Really? How big is "medium sized" for crying out loud? To me, small stream means there are certain sections I can jump across. Medium means I can’t jump across, but I can wade across just about anywhere. Large means, well, I have no idea what "large stream" means 
Regardless, unless you’re planning to fish exclusively with streamers or very-heavily-weighted nymphs, a 4wt or a 5wt would be better. In fact, based on *my* definitions of small and medium, I prefer something on the order of a 7.5′ 3wt or 4wt. –Steve
With all the manufacturers to choose from, I can sure use some assistance. I’ve read all kinds of interesting things about what to purchase. Here’s what I’m looking for. I fish small to medium sized streams for trout. I read that an 8′ / 6wt is a perfect first setup. I also read that if you’re over 5′8, buy 8.5′ rod and under 5′8 buy a 7.5 rod. All advise a slow to med action rod. I’ve been eyeing the Orvis Clearwater and the St. Crouix Pro-graphite. I’m looking to spend around $200 for rod/reel combo. Since this is my first fly outfit, any advise on what to look at would be appreciated. Thanks.
Yesterday I got news from a friend that Sydney Harbour was really firing, with big schools of bonito and yellowtail kingfish feeding on top nearly all morning – he and his wife got several good bonnies on fly and lost a kingie, fly line and all before leaving, sick of catching ‘em. I got my gear out before bed, putting a Teeny ‘head on my 11 wt and an intermediate on the 8. The sky was clearing after intermittent drizzle since Christmas Eve. I woke up at 5am this morning to the sound of pouring rain. It’s been going all day (it’s nearly 1 pm now). The wind is up around 15kts, a southerly, which ruins my chances in my 4.2m runabout. I’ve downloaded all the Win’98 Y2K patches I can, I’ve upgraded my antivirus data files, I’ve eaten most of the leftovers in the fridge, but there are a I’M PISSED OFF I WANT TO GO FISHING JK
I know how you feel John, s’been hissing down here for 3 days or so … still we need it. Having decided to take the plunge (finally!) into the salt I’ve been tying a box full of saltwater flies in anticiaption and what happens? … still we need it. good luck when the weather breaks. Steve
I wish we had some of that rain! Forrest http://www.FlyFishingREVIEW.com FlyFishingREVIEW.com Before you buy.
I’ve got a lot of empty bottles here I could fill for you.
John : If you want, you could send a bunch of bottles of rain to Dallas. Nearby Lake Lewisville is still 13.3 feet low and weather liers offer no help. The weather here was 73 degrees this afternoon with blue skies and the wind was less than 20 m.p.h. If this keeps up all the catfish will die of sunburn. There Waldo and Jeff are fishing in beautiful gray days and knocking ice out of their rod guides and we are stuck in this damn bluebird kind of days and still wearing shorts and sandals. I am jealous. It is still too hot to enjoy a Young’s Oatmeal Stout. Big Dale Big Dale
….It is still too hot to enjoy a Young’s Oatmeal Stout.
Unimaginable Dale. Never been a fan of hot weather myself but it’s never too hot to drink a good beer, especially if it accompanies a nice mess of fried bluegills. And as the latter are something of a specialty of yours I should think you’d be in pretty good shape. Bottoms up!
Where are you Forrest? I’ve got a lot of empty bottles here I could fill for you. Cheers JK
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I wish we had some of that rain! Forrest http://www.FlyFishingREVIEW.com FlyFishingREVIEW.com Before you buy.
Big Dale, Don’t worry, that’s the one thing with the weather – I guarantee it will change (for better or for worse is the only question, and not even the meteorologists know that!). You wouldn’t believe it here today, not a cloud in the sky, no wind, 25deg Some how I have to tell my better half that I’m going to get some of those kingies at 5am tomorrow morning (New Years Eve), it might be my last chance. Cheers JK
I waited until the results were in and the followup comment was made about wets and streamers to submit these… Picket Pin Trout Fin Parmachene Belle Supervisor Mickey Finn Black Nosed Dace Spruce Fly Dark Montreal Alexandra I have to agree with many of the comments that Brook Trout aren’t the most discerning of fish, but they’re fun to catch. We always carried simple flies like Grey Hackle Yellow and Royal Coachman dries and Grey Hackle Peacock and Pass Lake wets for them also, as they seem to like the flies with red in tham and with a definite contrast of wing to body colors. Larry #:)#
I love olive elk hair caddis, bead head prince nymph, Adams mosquito – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
: My vote is for the red tailed version of the Royal Coachman, followed by : the Silver Doctor, and female Black Gnat, and Grizzley King. : — : I’m a Canadian eh! Steve. I agree with the Royal Coachman and Silver Doctor, two of the all time best classics. Don’t forget the Dark Montreal! V.B. —
We do a lot of dry fly fishing in the Sierras for brookies, and the saying goes "anything with red". My favorite for brookies, and for any fish in the fall, is a Royal Coachman parachute in size 14. I use various colors for the post so that I can pick the best one to see that day. Jack Kowalski
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie Local from down Walt’s way put me on Royal Humpies for Blue Ridge Brookies – never found anything to top it yet. Didn’t know anyone successfully used anything other than a RH until you started this thread. Maybe posters could qualify their choices by giving the general area where they use their flies. Kiyu
I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
Local from down Walt’s way put me on Royal Humpies for Blue Ridge Brookies – never found anything to top it yet. Didn’t know anyone successfully used anything other than a RH until you started this thread. Maybe posters could qualify their choices by giving the general area where they use their flies. Kiyu
I don’t have 12 flies but here are my favorites: – renegade #14-#8 – elk hair caddis – bead-head prince nymph – green/brown wooly worm – black rubber legs Eric
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
My vote is for the red tailed version of the Royal Coachman, followed by the Silver Doctor, and female Black Gnat, and Grizzley King.
: #18 Black Gnat
: I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best : for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished : trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take : your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your : pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! : : Thank you all,, Jamie — I’m a Canadian eh! Steve. The FAQ for rec.crafts.metalworking is at: http://w3.uwyo.edu/~metal The metalworking drop box is at http://www.metalworking.com or http://208.213.200.132 Visit my website at: http://www.victoria.tc.ca/~ud233/homepage.htm
I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs— your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my
results! 1. Royal Humpy sizes 10-16 2. Parachute Adams sizes 14-18 3. Roberts Drake sizes 8-12 4. Royal Wulff sizes 12-18 5. Elk Hair Caddis sizes 14-20 6. Grizzly Wulff sizes 10-14 7. Blue Winged Olive sizes 16-20 8. Parachute Sulphur sizes 14-18 9. Madam X sizes 10-12 10. Letort Cricket 8-12 11. Any soft hackled wet fly 14-16 12. And during the right time of year, this baby goes to #1 Hex Spinner size 2-6 — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas Before you buy.
#18 Black Gnat – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
Favourite dries: Stimulator, Royal Wulff, any parachute Favourite Midge (Dry): Cluster midge, Blue Olive Favourite Nymph: Hare’s ear,bead head caddis, metallic caddis Regards from Montreal and have fun John Brkich
I support the the parachute also. Do not know why I over looked that fly. — Toad
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Favourite dries: Stimulator, Royal Wulff, any parachute Favourite Midge (Dry): Cluster midge, Blue Olive Favourite Nymph: Hare’s ear,bead head caddis, metallic caddis Regards from Montreal and have fun John Brkich
I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished
<snipped Since learning about Andy Kim Yong Special’s it’s hard to use anything else. All our in the #20-#24 size. 1. Yong (Brown, Blue, Cream, Yellow) 2. Yong JR (Green, Blue) 3. Yong Flasher (Brown, Blue, Cream, Yellow) 5. Yong Blonde 6. Yong Dry (Midge and Baetis) Happy Trick or Trout Season. bc.
I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
i think this is where i came in. wayno – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
a dozen yellow humpies. I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
– Ezflyfish.com http://www.ezflyfish.com BRBG http://www.abebooks.com/home/BLUEBOOKS P.O. Box 5112 Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)963-5001
Adams, Sulfur, Caddis, Caddis emerger, Drakes, Hair’s ear, Pheasant tail, and small woolybuger streamers. All these patterns in different sizes. All general suggestions. What is living in the stream is usually the best bet. Usually, one of the above will resemble an indigenous insect close enough to fool a fish. Tight lines — Toad
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
I have been asked often to compile a package of flies that would be the best for trout. Now i have my own favorites but am not quite a accomplished trouter. So i came to you all, the"experts", for your opinion. I will take your replies and pick the 12 that show up the most. Dries to nymphs—your pick! After the replies begin to drop off i’ll let you all know my results! Thank you all,, Jamie
<< I wasn’t so much scared, though, as hurt. After all I had done for him the damned squirrel never even looked back. Anyone out there have similar stories they’d like to share? I think former President Jimmy Carter had something like that happen while fishing too far from Secret Service agents from providing details. William Buchman
"No good deed goes unpunished."
Cute story Joe but that’s not being attacked by a squirrel. Come on down to the Clave and I’ll show you the scars from REALLY being attacked by a squirrel. Story too long to post here. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there have similar stories they’d like to share?
Wayno, swear ta gawd, I never touched ya. Big Al – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Cute story Joe but that’s not being attacked by a squirrel. Come on down to the Clave and I’ll show you the scars from REALLY being attacked by a squirrel. Story too long to post here. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine. Anyone out there have similar stories they’d like to share?
No Al, not Wayno, that’s the OTHER Wayne! Wayne To fish is human…to release divine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Wayno, swear ta gawd, I never touched ya. Big Al Cute story Joe but that’s not being attacked by a squirrel. Come on down to the Clave and I’ll show you the scars from REALLY being attacked by a squirrel. Story too long to post here. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine. Anyone out there have similar stories they’d like to share?
Cute story Joe but that’s not being attacked by a squirrel. Come on down to the Clave and I’ll show you the scars from REALLY being attacked by a squirrel. Story too long to post here. Wayne
is jimmy c. gonna join us? tell him to bring plenty of peanuts and billy beer. –wataugan walt
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Cute story Joe but that’s not being attacked by a squirrel. Come on down to the Clave and I’ll show you the scars from REALLY being attacked by a squirrel. Story too long to post here. Wayne is jimmy c. gonna join us? tell him to bring plenty of peanuts and billy beer. –wataugan walt
That was a rabbit that went after old Jimmy. — Charlie…
doggone this grouse….let me go find my sm, memory is slippin…. –Wataugan Waldo – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Cute story Joe but that’s not being attacked by a squirrel. Come on down to the Clave and I’ll show you the scars from REALLY being attacked by a squirrel. Story too long to post here. Wayne is jimmy c. gonna join us? tell him to bring plenty of peanuts and billy beer. –wataugan walt That was a rabbit that went after old Jimmy. — Charlie…
Winter is a lousy time for fishing here in New England. there’s something about that slight two-foot film of ice that inhibits the trout and salmon rising to your exquisitely presented dry fly; perhaps that slight tap on the head as they slam into the solid wall of ice. If it’s bad for fishing, though, it’s a great time for contemplating fishing trips of the past. One of my all time favorite days on the water ended without a single fish. It was one of those perfect fall days when the air is dry and crystal clear, not the best weather for catching but perfect for fishing, if you know what I mean. I was supposed to be at work, but the day was too nice and the feeling of freedom I got from playing hooky from work just added to the enjoyment of the day. About three miles from the dock I saw something swimming in the water. Stopping to check it out, I found a gray squirrel. He was almost a mile from land and the water was cold. the poor thing swam up to my boat and I could hear it’s claws scraping on the aluminum side as the near-frozen animal tried desperately to get out of the water. Now I enjoy eating a fish now and then but otherwise consider myself a kindly soul so up picked up my landing net and hoisted the half-frozen rodent out of the water. When I laid it on the seat of my boat it was so cold it just layed there. Being somewhat foolhardy as well as kindly, I took off my coat, an old Vietnam-era Army jacket, built a nest and placed the cold-cold squirrel inside. I continued on to my favorite fishing hole and proceeded to cast for smallmouth bass. The sun was getting warmer and the squirrel in my coat would, once in a while let out a little sneeze but was otherwise silent. After two or three hours of casting, I had totally forgotten about my guest, now comfortably asleep in my coat. I put my rod down and turned to start the motor. As the motor roared to life, I hard a scrambling sound in back of me and turned to see a gray streak come flying from the front seat, onto the middles seat, onto the small of my back and up my back to the top of my head where it dove off into the water and swam the short 10 feet to shore. Now I know I was at least 10 miles from the dock but when I returned a couple of the guys there swore they heard me scream. I wasn’t so much scared, though, as hurt. After all I had done for him the damned squirrel never even looked back. Anyone out there have similar stories they’d like to share?
Joe Mitko writes:
(good story mostly snipped) As the motor roared to life, I hard a scrambling sound in back of me and turned to see a gray streak come flying from the front seat, onto the middles seat, onto the small of my back and up my back to the top of my head where it dove off into the water and swam the short 10 feet to shore.
Joe: great story, but you missed out on some great tying material. Mark Faulkner
As I was planning yet another stitched gife for my MIL, I realized I had never made anything for my FIL. Granted, DH didn’t have much to do with him for the first several years of our marriage (MIL & FIL had been divorced in the 70s) but everything is friendly now & MIL & FIL are married again (yes, to each other). DH suggested stitching something on a fishing hat. Has anyone tried this? If so, what did you stitch? He loves cat fish & is a lake/boat fisherman (as opposed to a stream/fly fisherman). Any ideas??? Liz
Checked my index for sports-fishing and found Omnibook of Quickies-has a catfish, and other fishy things, including hat! Cross Stitcher Mag, June 96 and Aug 96- fishing motifs Also, I have seen hats & visors with a cross-stitch insert at Michael’s and elsewhere. Good luck! Kathy Hoover
DH suggested stitching something on a fishing hat. Has anyone tried this? If so, what did you stitch? He loves cat fish & is a lake/boat fisherman (as opposed to a stream/fly fisherman). Any ideas??? Liz well….i saw a t-shirt that said "women want me…fish fear me…" lol cari
Cute idea.:-)) The mental picture I get when I connect it with my FIL is funnier than the original T shirt could ever be. ))))) Liz
As I was planning yet another stitched gife for my MIL, I realized I had never made anything for my FIL. Granted, DH didn’t have much to do with him for the first several years of our marriage (MIL & FIL had been divorced in the 70s) but everything is friendly now & MIL & FIL are married again (yes, to each other). DH suggested stitching something on a fishing hat. Has anyone tried this? If so, what did you stitch? He loves cat fish & is a lake/boat fisherman (as opposed to a stream/fly fisherman). Any ideas??? Liz
They make ballcaps with an aida panel already in it. I’ve never tried stitching on a hat myself so I don’t know how hard it would be. There are lots of fish patterns in magazines and catalogs, but most I’ve seen are a typical trout jumping, or lures or something. I do remember one in a mag several years back with different lake fish in it. I have no idea which mag or issue but I’ll look through mine and see if I can find it. You could also design something yourself, along th lines of "world’s greatest fisherman" etc. Karen
To what nefarious purpose will these stories be put? Is there compensation for the author or at least ego gratifying recognition? Len Hunter
I’m starting a collection of fly-fishing stories. I’d be interested in anything funny, exciting, unbelievable, thrilling, interesting, or just a little odd. Just email your stories to me. Please be as accurate in the story as possible. Thanks.
This story is a fictional compound of several true incidents. Unfortunately, the angler of the lost fly rod was a very nice guy; nothing bad happened to the rude and obnoxious clients. I knew I was in trouble within a few minutes of meeting the clients. They appeared at the outfitter in full dress–like officers in some weird flyfisherman’s army, brigadiers maybe or Protocol Officers. In fact, they were arguing over the proper placement of their Backup Nipper. Top-to-bottom Orvis, Sage, Abel, etc. If they had been paid by the logo we would all have been millionaires. To be sure, their equipment was glorious. Several flyrods each, with a lengthy discussion of which was most appropriate (the seven and the eight) and how many the raft could comfortably carry (we agreed on four each, with reservations on the guide’s part.) This despite the fact that we had already covered this ground in phone calls. Beautiful tackle bags, unmarred. Boxes of flies, in large groups by nomenclature. I was jealous, I must admit. Even so, I snuck some of my equipment back into the shuttle vehicle; I was a bit worried about payload. I must say, this was unusual. Though many of our clients are novices, we rarely see two anglers so obviously overequipped and underexperienced. It’s most usual to see the novice in the care of a more experienced angler. Also, we have no aversion to the inexperienced; our business is teaching, and that calls for patience and flexibility. This level of confidence belied by the facts was worrisome, though; would the clients’ expectations ruin the trip? Could they cast to the bass, could they hook up at all? We fish for ten to twelve hours; could inexperienced casters work for that long? And would they blame me if any of these answers was ‘no’? We also had to do a lot of preparation, which left me a bit worried about casting skills. Three of four spools were brand new; it was proposed that we would load spools there at the ramp, while smallmouths chased bait in the shallows around us. At first the clients were pleasant and relaxed; they said the right things about taking advice and so forth. We got ready and shoved off. But as soon as we were feet-wet, things deteriorated. Tension between the clients became obvious, and I was glad that they sat facing opposite directions. Their fly choices, casting directions, and retrieves had nothing to do with my advice. They were in an arms race. Both were well-tutored by the mainstream fly-fishing press, and they hurled advice at each other like snowballs packed around rocks. I was in between. Neither could get their flyline out of the boat. Half an hour into the trip, drifting along through some of the most spectacular scenery in the East, and they were angry. Not the best start to a guided trip. And the smallies were on, too; I saw a lot of surface activity. When the front angler fought a cast out about three rod-lengths and stripped in the excess flyline, a 14" fish slashed at his dahlberg right at boatside. That was the only fish they moved all morning. They changed flies, hung them in brush, on rocks, on the oars. They debated barbless hooks even as I extracted one from my shoulder, barb fully functional but, thankfully, not quite engaged. They drank single-malt scotch but didn’t like it. Just for a break, I put them out wading in a shallow, weedy area. While they hacked and pumped and tied knots, I took a few tentative casts. Smallies to 12" took readily throughout the area. A few minutes later, a shout; one angler hooked, landed, and displayed, with what looked to be a fatal torso squeeze, a nice fish of about 14". I grew angrier and angrier. In the previous week, tough conditions had limited good, old clients to few fish and few that size. A few minutes later, with no other fish caught, I mounted them up and rode on. Things came to a head as we approached a sharp, narrow rapid through a broken-down diversion dam. The river here is mostly shallow, riffly ledges and rocks, with pools and weeds edges–classic smallmouth water. As we approached the dam, I told them to pick up and keep their lines in, since the drop required a turn in the throat of the rapid to avoid jagged concrete and rebars that would tear the bottom out of the raft. Both anglers disregarded this direction, and as we accelerated through the white water the guy in the aft seat hung up. The boat was in mid-turn, and moving quickly. I saw the rod go down and bend sharply. The angler called it a fish, but it obviously wasn’t. "Give line! You’re hung up! Drop line!" I yelled. "It’s a good one," he said. The boat turned completely so that the flyline ran under, from stem to stern. He was leaning into my sightline, to his left and my right. The rod was compounded now, three-guides into the water, and he was holding tight. I tried to pivot the boat a bit, but I had to hold my direction or risk a wreck. "Give line! Your’e hung! I’ve got to turn. Your’e going to break the rod!" He didn’t give line, the rod didn’t break: he let go of it. It hung there a weird still second, then snapped straight and dove into the water, hung there a moment, then seemed to zoom upstream as the boat shot down current. There was a stunned silence, which I welcomed. As we drifted to a quiet spot, the forward angler asked questions: He had missed the whole thing. The aft angler was completely quiet, contemplating the permanent loss of a seven-hundred dollar outfit which had never caught a fish. The 25-year guarantee didn’t cover loss by misadventure. Feebly, he tried the Big Fish argument. I wouldn’t even reply. Pausing forty yards below the rapid, I was caught in a moral dilemma. Our river is shallow, but forceful; a young woman had drowned in a canoe mishap against a rock about forty feet from where we sat a few years before. The water was warm, and I knew the spot intimately; I was fairly sure that I could find the flyrod if the hook still held the snag. Even if it had come loose, it was highly findable in the hole below, with a floating line and clear water. But should I? The angler considered it lost. He had plenty more, and was probably already composing the story for his friends, complete with bronze flash and tail the size of a Bible, no doubt with a supporting role as villain by Sincerely Yours. The guy was a mouth and a credit card, who had completely concealed all admirable qualities so far in the four hours we had known each other. I sat for a long moment, then heaved a heavy sigh and dropped a hook. "What’s up?" said the angler hopefully. "You guys sit tight. I may be able to get it back." No reply. I worked my way up to the dam in the slow water, alternately wading and swimming. The usual friendly smooth river boulders were absent; it was jagged concrete and odd angles. Careful footholds and a steep lean into the flow. I couldn’t hope to work all the way up to the main rapid, but the faster water was shallower so I could hold. Standing waist-deep in it, I stood and looked; sure enough, I saw the but and reel of the rod flare up in the swash. Decision time. I imagined how to do it: Hit the ramp at nine pm, after the glorious dusk whitefly hatch. Rack up and drop off at 10; drive up here and make the quarter-mile wade in the dark. Feel through the rapid, hit the line, grab the rod; one sharp pull and I get a $700 tip. If the day smooths out and the clients turn out OK, return the rod and call it an Abe Lincold honesty thing; if they fulfill their promise as first-class jerks, and especially if they stiff me, then the rod is mine. The rod rolled up again, almost breaking the surface; I looked back. The forward guy was just watching, but the aft guy was looking away, an odd, vulnerable look on his face. I realized a lot then, about how the attitude was a veneer, the macho competition covered a softer and simpler person. I couldn’t tell yet if he loved fish or fishing or rivers or boats, but I realized that the loss of the rod was probably fatal to his chances of ever loving any of it. My guide habits created disdain and disapproval, but my river instincts told me that the river rarely returns something won fairly, and that to abuse the event was bad karma. I couldn’t resist the impulse. I gave him a smile and a nod and a thumbs-up, waited for the rod to show again, and leaned forward for it. An easy catch, a yank and it was mine. I rode the current back to them, winding up the slack line, and handed him the rod, wet and new. I’d like to say the event changed the guy and things looked up; it’s half true. The guy was grateful enough, but he didn’t have the eggs to really see my side of it. I said, "Now will you listen to me?" and they both nodded, and they took a more relaxed and cooperative approach for a while. They got their flylines out of the boat a few times, and caught some fish, too. I got a reasonable tip, though the episode of the lost flyrod wasn’t mentioned again and the tip didn’t reflect the service that day. I also gained the patience to stick with the difficult clients. Somehow that day helped me to regain the basic comfort with the river that several years of difficult clients and finicky fish had eroded. I remembered something that I had forgotten: a guide is a teacher, and sometimes the best lesson is failure. Davemo18
I am a westerner now living in Virginia courtest of the US Navy. I was getting my float tube all ready for spring to try some ffishing for bass (something I’ve never done) when my neighbor told me I was nuts. He said that the lakes out here have plenty of snapping turtles and water moccasins, and that no one would be dumb enough to go out there in a float tube. Then I realized that I have never seen one in any of the lakes out here. Can any of you southerners give me some advice?? *Duke*
I’ve float-tubed numerous southern lakes and streams without incident. As long as you’re wearing shorts or pants — I wouldn’t worry about the snapping turtles. And the snakes seem to always move out of the way. Think about it — the sight of flippered-feet and legs dangling from an oversized donut must be a pretty frightening invasion to most water critters. Fear of snakes and such is a state of mind.
(snip) Think about it — the sight of flippered-feet and legs dangling from an oversized donut must be a pretty frightening invasion to most water critters. Fear of snakes and such is a state of mind.
We have a thing in the water here in Florida that *will* bite you. It’s call ALLIGATOR! 
Snakes haven’t been a problem, but I don’t use a tube in the East Texas waters that are full of snapping turtles. Brian Camp, in Ft. Worth, has a great picture of a snapper clamped on to his fins!
: :I’ve float-tubed numerous southern lakes and streams without incident. As :long as you’re wearing shorts or pants — I wouldn’t worry about the :snapping turtles. And the snakes seem to always move out of the way. :Think about it — the sight of flippered-feet and legs dangling from an 
versized donut must be a pretty frightening invasion to most water :critters. Fear of snakes and such is a state of mind. Amen, so have I. I think his neighbor was having a little fun at his expense. Never had a snapping turtle get close enough to try and shoo him away and all the "moc’s" took off for other parts with a simple tap of the rod tip a couple of feet ahead of them. I wouldn’t waste more than 5 seconds worrying about it.
I am a westerner now living in Virginia courtest of the US Navy. I was getting my float tube all ready for spring to try some ffishing for bass (something I’ve never done) when my neighbor told me I was nuts. He said that the lakes out here have plenty of snapping turtles and water moccasins, and that no one would be dumb enough to go out there in a float tube. Then I realized that I have never seen one in any of the lakes out here. Can any of you southerners give me some advice?? *Duke*
Duke – I once had a snapping turtle take a clouser minnow. Needless to say, I did not bring him to the net. Maybe with a 14-wt. rod, steel leaders, we could start a whole new branch of fly fishing…… Seriously, I agree with the other posts that you have little to fear from aquatic reptiles, unless there are alligators about. Gene
I am a westerner now living in Virginia courtest of the US Navy. I was getting my float tube all ready for spring to try some ffishing for bass (something I’ve never done) when my neighbor told me I was nuts. He said that the lakes out here have plenty of snapping turtles and water moccasins, and that no one would be dumb enough to go out there in a float tube. Then I realized that I have never seen one in any of the lakes out here. Can any of you southerners give me some advice?? *Duke*
I have had moccasins act very agressively while protecting the nesting area in late spring/early summer. Otherwise, moccasins seem reciprocate the respect you show them.
I am a westerner now living in Virginia courtest of the US Navy. I was getting my float tube all ready for spring to try some ffishing for bass (something I’ve never done) when my neighbor told me I was nuts. He said that the lakes out here have plenty of snapping turtles and water moccasins, and that no one would be dumb enough to go out there in a float tube. Then I realized that I have never seen one in any of the lakes out here. Can any of you southerners give me some advice?? Don’t worry about em’. Just keep on good watch, (which you should be
on already) and don’t try to pick one up or approach closely. I’ve had some *very* close encounters and they all tried to run out of the country. Besides, most of the snakes you see are water snakes, even if they are black. I was at a speech once and this guy was fishing from his float tube and had a 100 pound snapping turtle pulling his leg. No damage though. Make up your own mind, or get a boat. Aaron Zee
The problem with snapping turtles is that it is impossible to get them to rise to a dry fly – just doesn’t happen. But if you take a 2 or 1/0 weighted bass fly – pattern unimportant, leave it sitting in a chunk of liver overnight and slowly fish the riffles with a rapidly sinking line you’ll find that snappers put up a hell of a fight. In parts of the Mississippi basin there is a spring run of alligator snappers which is really something. Try tarpon tackle for these boys… good luck.
The problem with snapping turtles is that it is impossible to get them to rise to a dry fly – just doesn’t happen. But if you take a 2 or 1/0 weighted bass fly – pattern unimportant, leave it sitting in a chunk of liver overnight and slowly fish the riffles with a rapidly sinking line you’ll find that snappers put up a hell of a fight. In parts of the Mississippi basin there is a spring run of alligator snappers which is really something. Try tarpon tackle for these boys… good luck.
Actually, I find I can get ‘em on size 26 midges fished in front of a "cruising" snapper. Well maybe not, but I have actually seen red ears feeding on size 18 hatching midges before, so I bet it’s possible, and I have hooked red ears on the shell (hook got caught on underside on shell, did not penetrate anything) before while fishing streamers, they don’t put up a good fight though. Turtles: fly fishing’s new frontier… Aaron Zee
Hear, hear! I often read those magazine stories and look at the pretty pictures . . . Then, as I pick my way around the old tires so I can cast to the submerged shopping cart in mid-river, I try to recall all those pretty pictures. Those folks have birds singing and gurgling waters, I’ve got traffic zipping by and barking dogs. But, I’m catching plenty of good-sized fish and having a blast–even if neither I nor my surroundings look like the center spread in American Flyfisherman (or whatever). Fishing and fun are were you find them or make them. JL LPM Editor
In Response to JC’s article about flyfishing morons I can only respond – Beautiful! Absolutely Beautiful!!! This is truely it – the essence of flyfishing – the type of conditions and payoff and bring us back time after time, leaving spouses and friends shaking their heads saying ‘he’s definitely out of his gourd!’
On my first ever flyfishing trip for trout (or any otehr species) I resurrected an old pair of Converse hip waders that had belonged to my father. They were probably older than I was and had not been stored in ideal conditions. They had pinhole leaks everywhere. Went into the nearest town and bought their entire supply or tire pactches. The hip boots looked like they had cancer. Still leaked. The last day of the trip an unseasonal cold spell moved in and it snowed. I said the hell with the waders, I’ll wade wet. The water temperature was about 52 degrees and the air temp about 22. As long as I stayed in the water I was fine. When I came out my cotton bluejeans froze up stiff as a board. I didn’t catch a thing all weekend long and it is still one of my fondest memories. I guess it’s safe to say that flyfishers have a different outlook from most "normal" people.
In Response to JC’s article about flyfishing morons I can only respond – Beautiful! Absolutely Beautiful!!! This is truely it – the essence of flyfishing – the type of conditions and payoff and bring us back time after time, leaving spouses and friends shaking their heads saying ‘he’s definitely out of his gourd!’ Also true, magazines provide a sickenly unrealistic portrayal of the usual flyfishing excursion and the true charcter of the flyfisherman(person). Most of my fishing adventures have taken place in a drift boat on the Yakima River in Washington state. Prior to investing in a *real* driftboat, we used an old plastic thing that looked like a kiddie sandbox and it was patched with silicone gel and aluminum beer cans, due to the numerous rocks, trees, and other obsticles that we managed to plow into. Pack into that 3 full grown men brandishing 8-1/2 ft fiberglass rods (6 or 7 weight – also, you NEVER take your good rod out in this particular boat), a little beer, 6 hours of (then) total solitude, having the river completely to yourself, a couple of caotic near capsizes and arguments over who’s turn it is to row the damn boat, and you have all the ingredients of a real good time. We occasionally ran into a few parties that looked like a marketing campagne for a menswear catalogue, however, they were too busy looking good to be much fun, and besides, they weren’t catching any fish. Anyway, thanks for the story, JC. It really did my old heart good! Tim