Question:

Fished my favorite local stream today.  Testing out the back after the new treatment.  WOO WOO!  Fished for five hours and my only complaint was cold feet (as in, "who switched my feet for these bricks"). Got to the Patapsco, below Daniels Dam (Old Fredrick Rd turnout) at about 8 a.m.  Water was 48 degrees, air about 50, foggy with a light breeze. I walked up to my favorite pool and started casting a size 14 wooly bugger. After two 10 inch stocker rainbows in the riffle, I started up a conversation with an older gentleman on the walking path.  Turns out that he is a "retired" fly fisherman who can no longer wade due to two artificial hips and some heart problems.  The sun had come out and he pointed out some fish rising in the next pool down.  He then "guided" me into position by spotting my traverse across the stream.  I stayed wonderfully dry because of him. With his advice, I got into perfect position behind a rock.  I was high enough out of the water to make a decent cast, but shielded from the fishes view by the rock.  There were about twenty fish rising in a 20 foot circle. I looked on the water and saw some tiny size 30 black gnats floating by. Well, didn’t have anything that small, so settled on a 22 Griffiths Gnat. No dice.  They splashed all around it.  I retied on the black wooly bugger, but again, no joy.  I then remembered a fly in my box that I learned about whilst inspecting the Pirate’s Dry Fly Larder (the man will never again have to tie a dry).  It was a size 16 parachute Hare’s Ear.  Chaching!  These guys couldn’t get enough of it.  About every third to fifth cast I was into another fish.  One fish was still bleeding slightly in the other side of the mouth from where I had hooked him before. Man, I love stupid fish.  Even got a very confused smallie (still had his winter coat on). When the action slowed down, I looked up and the gentleman was still there, sitting on a log.  I offered him my rod, but he refused.  He didn’t buy a license and was "adding a bit of English to my casts."  We chatted for a bit more and then the fish started rising again.  When action eased, I looked up and he was gone.  I want to thank him and all other "stream side angels." He was indeed fishing without a license, but my license worked for him, because I became his arms and legs for just a bit.  My cast straightened out, my fly selection was spot on and the fish were fearless.  I firmly believe that more than words pass between master and apprentice and today, while fishing that little circle of fish, that connection with this nameless gentleman, with the Pirate, with old Floyd Turnbull who took me fishing as a kid, and many, many others, was made. I sat on that pool all morning.  Others came by and said those were the only rising fish in two miles of river.  I sat on a rock and had my sandwich with my line in the water (still my pool, dammit!).  While sitting there, a huge (for the Patapsco) trout, about 18-20 inches, flashed about ten feet out from the rock.  I sat there for a 45 minutes casting everything in my flybox, hare’s ears, pheasant tails, wooly buggers, usuals, biots, nothing worked, even though he continued to flash and dart around.  That ethereal link was still there, but there are some fish that you aren’t meant to catch. A front came through at about one o’clock, clouds, sprinkles and wind.  Shut the fish down.  I didn’t mind.  I’d had a good morning, the fishing lust was sated, and I had reached a new level in my relationship with the water, and, my past. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

……a "retired" fly fisherman who can no longer wade due to two artificial hips and some heart problems.  The sun had come out and he pointed out some fish rising in the next pool down.  He then "guided" me into position by spotting my traverse across the stream…….

What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s

Response:

Fished my favorite local stream today.  Testing out the back after the new treatment.

        (snip)         i am once again reminded of the best argument for the existence of this group–gifts such as that i snipped, above. your friend in the old north state wayno

Response:

Frank Reid wrote…

<snipped a wonderful TR A front came through at about one o’clock, clouds, sprinkles and wind.  Shut the fish down.  I didn’t mind.  I’d had a good morning, the fishing lust was sated, and I had reached a new level in my relationship with the water, and, my past.

Thanks for sharing that Frank.  Gems like that are what keep me coming back here. — Warren Henry’s Fork Clave info and Bozeman, MT fishing info www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt

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but there are some fish that you aren’t meant to catch.

Boy, that’s an evocative line…thanks for the TR, Frank. – Sid

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What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s

To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank

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What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank

See, that’s what we love about this place…….no question asked in good faith will go unanswered!     Wolfgang

Response:

What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank

Something tells me she’d insist on a strong pre-nup…

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank Something tells me she’d insist on a strong pre-nup…

Anything she wants!! Scott

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Fished my favorite local stream today.  

Great story, Frank. That was a special day that I’ll think will stay with you. Willi

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Question:

I have a fly rod and have used it about twice fishing for trout in stocked lochs. What I require is some information about coaching or lessons if any in fly fishing, there are a few techniques that I really would like to get the hang of. Any response would be much appreciated (I really mean that!). Before you buy.

Response:

It would help if you told us where you are (I’m assuming Scotland?). Getting a response from somebody local to you would help better then me telling you we give lessons every Spring in West Springfield, MA. –Stan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a fly rod and have used it about twice fishing for trout in stocked lochs. What I require is some information about coaching or lessons if any in fly fishing, there are a few techniques that I really would like to get the hang of. Any response would be much appreciated (I really mean that!). Before you buy.

Response:

I do have some knowledge of loch fishing techniques.  If you don’t want to send me a ticket and put me up for two or three weeks, I suggest you take the winter off and study.  Then go to the Chatsworth Angling Fair at Chatsworth House, Derbyshire in March.  You will meet an incredible number of people who will be more than glad to teach you (for a fee and for free).  You can buy equipment and hang out in fly fishing’s largest candy store.  Wear your wellies as its in a sheep pasture.  You might also want to post to the uk usenet "rec — game" (help me out here folks, what is the name of the Uk fly fishing usenet?).          Cheers               Frank Reid – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It would help if you told us where you are (I’m assuming Scotland?). Getting a response from somebody local to you would help better then me telling you we give lessons every Spring in West Springfield, MA. –Stan I have a fly rod and have used it about twice fishing for trout in stocked lochs. What I require is some information about coaching or lessons if any in fly fishing, there are a few techniques that I really would like to get the hang of. Any response would be much appreciated (I really mean that!). Before you buy.

Before you buy.

Response:

I have a fly rod and have used it about twice fishing for trout in stocked lochs. What I require is some information about coaching or lessons if any in fly fishing, there are a few techniques that I really would like to get the hang of.

You could purchase or rent vidoes from a fly shop.  Those with Mel Krieger or Lefty Kreh are fairly good.  Some fly shops offer simple free lessons in their yard or parking lot.  Another good place to go is a local fly fishing club.  You make no mention of where you so it’s difficult to offer more precise advice. Mu

Response:

I have a fly rod and have used it about twice fishing for trout in stocked lochs. What I require is some information about coaching or lessons if any in fly fishing, there are a few techniques that I really would like to get the hang of.

Hi Sounds like you are in Scotland. If you would care to buy a copy of the Trout and Salmon magazine you will find a number of instructors advertising in the classifieds. If you do not find one near you, contact the nearest and he or she will be able to put you in contact with the nearest registered APGAI, REFFIS or STANIC instructor to you. There are also a number of excellent instructional videos available, again see the Trout and Salmon mag. Pleas for help like this are more easily answered if you give a closer indication as to your whereabouts. Tight lines Chris

Response:

Check out www.letsflyfish.com Ally

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a fly rod and have used it about twice fishing for trout in stocked lochs. What I require is some information about coaching or lessons if any in fly fishing, there are a few techniques that I really would like to get the hang of. Any response would be much appreciated (I really mean that!). Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

Hi Possibly head down to the everglages for a few days. Trying to plan ahead for the hols. hope to hear from someone soon. Neil

Bad idea, mosquito city. go to the west coast orthe keys. Capt. Gary S. Colecchio West Palm Beach "The only people who have any business fishing are  young boys and married men. Everyone else should be  out getting laid." …I said that

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"The only people who have any business fishing are  young boys and married men. Everyone else should be  out getting laid." …I said that

You’ve not met our beloved barrister from Rowan County. A man of many talents he can, and has, combined business, fishing, being married AND getting laid. Or… he used to could. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Head over to the Oak Hill area. Go by way of Merritt Island. Go to Titusville, across the causeway left to Haul Over Canal and just pick a spot somewhere on the route. Check a map of the area, you’ll see. John Popp in grass dead Sanford Fl

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Anyone know of any fly fishing areas around Orlando,  Possibly Head down to the everglages for a few days. Trying to plan ahead for the hols. hope to hear from someone soon. Neil * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free! Check with Rick at The Fly Fisherman on Orange Ave. in Orlando. HTH, R

Response:

Hi Anyone know of any fly fishing areas around Orlando,  Possibly Head down to the everglages for a few days. Trying to plan ahead for the hols. hope to hear from someone soon. Neil * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Check with Rick at The Fly Fisherman on Orange Ave. in Orlando. HTH, R

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "The only people who have any business fishing are  young boys and married men. Everyone else should be  out getting laid." …I said that You’ve not met our beloved barrister from Rowan County. A man of many talents he can, and has, combined business, fishing, being married AND getting laid. Or… he used to could. — Ken Fortenberry

        um, well, of course, all such activities involved the same lady, of course, like when we go on family trips to the smokys and i have to call the office.         ken, will you give me a call tomorrow, please? wayno

Response:

Head over to the Oak Hill area. Go by way of Merritt Island. Go to Titusville, across the causeway left to Haul Over Canal and just pick a spot somewhere on the route. Check a map of the area, you’ll see. John Popp in grass dead Sanford Fl

They also have a location in Titusville, FWIW, but I’ve never been there.  I suspect Rick and the guys there know pretty much the whole area, however. R PS  John, Was over on Cedar Key last week and things where decent over there, plus it’s still cool (-ish, better than Orlando area, anyway), the rates at the inns are low this time of year and the crowds are light – us and a flyfishing! Virginia couple in a big trailered Whaler at the hotel marina.  Even got some of the last Stone claws at Charlie’s in Crystal River – yeee-uuumm!!  Kinda sorry to be back in Texas and hot as hell….<G. TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Anyone know of any fly fishing areas around Orlando,  Possibly Head down to the everglages for a few days. Trying to plan ahead for the hols. hope to hear from someone soon. Neil * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free! Check with Rick at The Fly Fisherman on Orange Ave. in Orlando. HTH, R

Response:

Hi Anyone know of any fly fishing areas around Orlando,  Possibly Head down to the everglages for a few days. Trying to plan ahead for the hols. hope to hear from someone soon. Neil * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Question:

Ice, rest and some sort of anti-inflamatory for the pain.  As for why it is happening, well that is hard to say.  Try to change your cast up a bit.  Did it happen before you started to fish 4 days/week?  If so than you may need to take some time off.  I would suggest changing your cast, bring your arm in closer to your body and don’t try too hard for distance.  Anyway, if the problem persists you should really rest otherwise it will become a cronic issue!! Good Luck! Forrest Arakawa FlyFishingREVIEW.com http://www.flyfishingreview.com I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam

Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Docs usually prescribe anti-inflamatories but I don’t find they work that great and the upset stomach, constipation and weight gain isn’t worth it.

Weight gain?  Geez, Peter, how many of those were you eating?

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the upset stomach, constipation and weight gain

That’s just middle age<g. — Charlie…

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There is a band that you can put on your arm above the elbow that helps greatly for tendonitis.  Ask a pharmacist about where to find one.  The advice on ice and anti inflamatory is good, but the band also helps. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam

Response:

above or below the elbow?

Response:

I’ve been wearing the this type of band for several years now, I wear it below the elbow.

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Adam, 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week – A gruelling routine to have to stick to. I have no idea how old you are or what kind of shape your in, but I would suggest getting a job. Happy fishing John Knight Sydney Fly Rodders’ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam

Response:

I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam

Adam,  Rest, then seriously *change* your casting mechanics….somewhere in there you’re doing a lot of tightening up/muscleing.  After the rest…take it slow and easy…to RE-develop the casting stroke…I’ve done it..and if I can do it….I think anyone can…just takes a little thought BEFORE you start the pickup…and it needs to stay short & easy until you’ve gotten rid of the   uptight muscular memory….Breathe!…and use leverage …use your larger muscles more let your lower arm simply carry out the accuracy part.. ..sorry for the lonnng_winded sentence…read it again…and get the breathing happenning in between the run-on phrases;-);-) steve d.

Response:

Years ago, after spending a lot of days casting shooting heads into the wind while up to my eyeballs in water and trying to turn over large flies for Winter Steelhead, I started developing elbow and shoulder problems.  I’m convinced that regardless of technique, after a certain amount of time, problems can develop…especially when casting distances with heavy lines for many hours at a time.  I fish with a friend who is a neurosurgeon.  He advised me that the only real cure was to spend less time fishing for Winter Steelhead.  I now keep plenty of painkillers in my vest and just keep fishing…in spite of his advice.  When the waters are too muddied to fish, then I rest.  I guess it’s all a matter of priorities.  Besides….if you don’t suffer a little and appease the fish gods, then you have no claim to the bigger fish <g Barry

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam Adam,  Rest, then seriously *change* your casting mechanics….somewhere in there you’re doing a lot of tightening up/muscleing.  After the rest…take it slow and easy…to RE-develop the casting stroke…I’ve done it..and if I can do it….I think anyone can…just takes a little thought BEFORE you start the pickup…and it needs to stay short & easy until you’ve gotten rid of the uptight muscular memory….Breathe!…and use leverage …use your larger muscles more let your lower arm simply carry out the accuracy part.. ..sorry for the lonnng_winded sentence…read it again…and get the breathing happenning in between the run-on phrases;-);-) steve d.

Response:

Thanks for the advice.  Actually, I know that rest works, but I’m not going to stop fishing.  My problem is most likely due to stripping technique, as you alluded to.  Along these lines, your suggestion about using the rod tips is interesting.  However, I’d like to find out just what I am doing wrong and what is the best way to strip without over stressing the tendons (the cause of tennis elbow). Adam

I do a lot of streamer fishing and I’m a medical textbook when it comes to tendonitis (and lately arthritis) yet stripping doesn’t bother me and I believe it’s because the arm motion actually is mostly in the shoulder and in one plane.   You’re stripping down and to the side and placing stress on the elbow.  Then when it gets to the end of the motion (straight arm) you’re creating more stress in stopping. Try keeping your arm in an ‘L’ position and just pull straight back. It duplicates the normal arm swing as we walk, a very stress free motion. Cheers Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.cgocable.net/~pcharles/index.html

Response:

Thanks for the advice.  Actually, I know that rest works, but I’m not going to stop fishing.  My problem is most likely due to stripping technique, as you alluded to.  Along these lines, your suggestion about using the rod tips is interesting.  However, I’d like to find out just what I am doing wrong and what is the best way to strip without over stressing the tendons (the cause of tennis elbow). Adam

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Like Peter said, the best cure is rest. I am also prone to this problem. Try to reduce your power stripping and use the rod tip to impart action to the fly/streamer. The more you aggravate the elbow the slower the healing process. jim I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam Tendonitis.  Ultrasound and cortisone works great.  For home therapy, try an ice pack.  It’s an inflamation so rest and ice will help.  Docs usually prescribe anti-inflamatories but I don’t find they work that great and the upset stomach, constipation and weight gain isn’t worth it. Good luck Peter

Response:

I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam

Tendonitis.  Ultrasound and cortisone works great.  For home therapy, try an ice pack.  It’s an inflamation so rest and ice will help.  Docs usually prescribe anti-inflamatories but I don’t find they work that great and the upset stomach, constipation and weight gain isn’t worth it. Good luck Peter

Response:

As long as you just doing this catch as catch can type of fishing, you are going to have these problems.  They’ll disappear when you can start putting some serious hours in. In the meantime, Ibuprofen works pretty good for sore muscles…you want to get up there in the 800 – 1000 mg range. Also, quit casting blinds until duck season comes in to relieve the unnecessary stress. Switching back and forth between left and right hand casting helps keep both sides of your brain balanced….works for me…….john

Response:

Like Peter said, the best cure is rest. I am also prone to this problem. Try to reduce your power stripping and use the rod tip to impart action to the fly/streamer. The more you aggravate the elbow the slower the healing process. jim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam Tendonitis.  Ultrasound and cortisone works great.  For home therapy, try an ice pack.  It’s an inflamation so rest and ice will help.  Docs usually prescribe anti-inflamatories but I don’t find they work that great and the upset stomach, constipation and weight gain isn’t worth it. Good luck Peter

Response:

I do a lot of flyfishing.  Since April I’ve fished (a lot of blind casting for bass and pickerel) on average 4 hours/day, 4-5 days a week, and now I’ve got elbow (left) problems that feel just like tennis elbow.  I’m a right handed caster and strip with my left hand.  Any helpful suggestions are appreciated. Adam

Response:

Question:

Is there someone who knows the pattern of a soldier’s palmer? Please reply to: P.S. Tie a hook and the end of your leader and fish with maggots. Would you call this flyfishing? Let me hear how you think about that. Peter Green.

Response:

Soldier palmer: tail and body red wool/poly/shiny stuff Palmered with a brown hackle, and gold ribbed. That should do it. As for your other question; you’re trolling my dear, but I’ll bite gently; we call that babyflyfishing. Cheers, Herman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is there someone who knows the pattern of a soldier’s palmer? Please reply to: P.S. Tie a hook and the end of your leader and fish with maggots. Would you call this flyfishing? Let me hear how you think about that. Peter Green.

Response:

Question:

What the hell is L2.99 and L 3.50? Speak American, damn it! TWL Big Al – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would like to take this opportunity to introduce our company, Lureflash International Limited.  We originally made our name with the introduction and development of synthetic fly tying materials into the very traditional world of fly tying; and are regarded by many as the re-inventors of fly tying and indeed fly fishing in the UK. This year we have introduced our new full-colour FLY REFERENCE GUIDE which is a fifty-page booklet comprising all fly pages featured within our trade catalogue and is an excellent reference guide.  Suggested retail price

Question:

Hello. Can anyone provide the genus/species of a mayfly currently hatching here in Vermont. The fly is white, emerges at dusk in large groups, essentially immediately turns into a spinner and kind of "dances" an inch or so above the surface.  They are really common, and I’m sure this is a really basic question… but I’d like to know. thanks. john

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Can anyone provide the genus/species of a mayfly currently hatching here in Vermont. The fly is white, emerges at dusk in large groups, essentially immediately turns into a spinner and kind of "dances" an inch or so above the surface.  They are really common, and I’m sure this is a really basic question… but I’d like to know.

Perhaps Ephoron leukon.  It must be too late for Potamanthus. Photographs of both are probably in Swisher/Richards or Caucci/Nastasi. — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

Response:

Can anyone provide the genus/species of a mayfly currently hatching here in Vermont. The fly is white, emerges at dusk in large groups, essentially immediately turns into a spinner and kind of "dances" an inch or so above the surface.  They are really common, and I’m sure this is a really basic question… but I’d like to know.

John, It is the Ephoron leukon. James Ehlers Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service Vermont Fly Fishing, Hunting, River and Woodland Outings http://pobox.com/~uncle

Response:

 The fish key on those bad boys don’t they !  White seems to be a major trigger from my experience… — TimW Halfordian Golfer UNCLEJAMVT wrote in article – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Can anyone provide the genus/species of a mayfly currently hatching here in Vermont. The fly is white, emerges at dusk in large groups, essentially immediately turns into a spinner and kind of "dances" an inch or so above the surface.  They are really common, and I’m sure this is a really basic question… but I’d like to know. John, It is the Ephoron leukon. James Ehlers Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service Vermont Fly Fishing, Hunting, River and Woodland Outings http://pobox.com/~uncle

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone provide the genus/species of a mayfly currently hatching here in Vermont. The fly is white, emerges at dusk in large groups, essentially immediately turns into a spinner and kind of "dances" an inch or so above the surface.  They are really common, and I’m sure this is a really basic question… but I’d like to know. John, It is the Ephoron leukon. James Ehlers Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service Vermont Fly Fishing, Hunting, River and Woodland Outings http://pobox.com/~uncle

Hey there, Jim.  My son and I have been fishing the Winooski in the riffles above the tressle the last few days and when these white flies are out the place comes alive with "jumping" fish. We can dap, plunk cast, drag free float over these fish without a look. How do you sucessfully fish this "event"? BHB — Remove "send_no_spam_" from address for e-mail response. Barkley Bull =

Response:

Hello. Can anyone provide the genus/species of a mayfly currently hatching here in Vermont. The fly is white, emerges at dusk in large groups, essentially immediately turns into a spinner and kind of "dances" an inch or so above the surface.

Dear John: Ephron Leukon: i.e. White Fly.  They were the 1st mayfly hatch documented in "the Colonies" by ole’ Tom J. himself Jason Beary

Response:

  Hey there, Jim.  My son and I have been fishing the Winooski in the riffles above the tressle the last few days and when these white flies are out the place comes alive with "jumping" fish. We can dap, plunk cast, drag free float over these fish without a look. How do you sucessfully fish this "event"?

I don’t think the whitefly event is the only event going on.  The fish are definitely jumping up for the skittering egg layers, but there is also some emerger feeding for sure.  I don’t know it’s the same species or not.  The "dancing" egg-layer is definitely hard to imitate, but I’ve had some success with a White Wulff size 12 and 14.  In the riffles, the floats are pretty short anyway (before you get drag), so I guess it is kind of a dap and plunk.  I have had no success imitating the emerger event however.  Various wet flies have been working, but not during what seems to be a highly selective evening "event". For e-mail responses, remove the "Spam_Stopper_" from my return address before sending.

Response:

Hey there, Jim.  My son and I have been fishing the Winooski in the riffles above the tressle the last few days and when these white flies are out the place comes alive with "jumping" fish. We can dap, plunk cast, drag free float over these fish without a look. How do you sucessfully fish this "event"?

White soft hackle….let swing and line tighten in the riffle….slowly(and I mean slowly) raise and lower the rod tip as if the emerger is trying to break the film, fails and tumbles back down.  Good luck. Interested to know how you do. James Ehlers Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service Vermont Fly Fishing, Hunting, River and Woodland Outings http://pobox.com/~uncle

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Is that YOU there?? I’ve been down lower in the pools (and up higher by the rocks..). Nice to cyberly meet you.  I can get a fish or 2 to take on a white dry (a little smaller than natural), but only at the VERY beginning of the hatch. Later a spinner (white, same size) fished dry with a twitch or two can get a take. BUT, I also think the main event is subsurface.  I’m going to try chucking a nymph (tied with a lighter-colored fluffier wing case) upstream from the hatch, letting it go dead drift into the rises (leaps!) and then bring it to the surface right in front of the fish. john – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   Hey there, Jim.  My son and I have been fishing the Winooski in the riffles above the tressle the last few days and when these white flies are out the place comes alive with "jumping" fish. We can dap, plunk cast, drag free float over these fish without a look. How do you sucessfully fish this "event"? I don’t think the whitefly event is the only event going on.  The fish are definitely jumping up for the skittering egg layers, but there is also some emerger feeding for sure.  I don’t know it’s the same species or not.  The "dancing" egg-layer is definitely hard to imitate, but I’ve had some success with a White Wulff size 12 and 14.  In the riffles, the floats are pretty short anyway (before you get drag), so I guess it is kind of a dap and plunk.  I have had no success imitating the emerger event however.  Various wet flies have been working, but not during what seems to be a highly selective evening "event".

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SNIP . How do you sucessfully fish this "event"? White soft hackle….let swing and line tighten in the riffle….slowly(and I mean slowly) raise and lower the rod tip as if the emerger is trying to break the film, fails and tumbles back down.  Good luck. Interested to know how you do.

I think this is good advice. Ive been near the trestle several days this last week and these fish are either jumping clear and taking spinners 2-3" above the surface (exciting to watch) OR are working benaeth the surface. Dun or spinner floating are simply refused (at least in my experience). THis limits me, at least, to an emerger. BUT, If anyone knows how to keep a spinner 2" above the surface and never land it, Id like to take lessons!! john

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these fish are either jumping clear and taking spinners 2-3" above the surface (exciting to watch) OR are working benaeth the surface. Dun or spinner floating are simply refused (at least in my experience). THis limits me, at least, to an emerger. BUT, If anyone knows how to keep a spinner 2" above the surface and never land it, Id like to take lessons!!

Simple! Capture a half-dozen or so of the duns, and leash them to your fly using strands of hair. Chuck the whole rig out there and PRESTO!…your fly lifts off the surface. Tiny choke collars are helpful in case your team spooks. Try not to lose too many flies, or you’ll soon be bald. If you’re already bald, bring a hairy friend along. Don’t bring your S.O. or children, unless you think they’d look good bald. Best not attempted among bats, martins, swallows, etc. Best not attempted. *NOTE TO THE HUMOR-IMPARED, WHICH MAY INCLUDE ME* Sorry for the joke, but I couldn’t resist. I know there are folks out there trying to crack this hatch, and it can be a tough one, like many fall (i.e., low-flow) hatches. I don’t think it helps that the bright white naturals are *really* visible to the fish, making an imitation stand apart all the more. Try fishing faster water if possible. I used to fish this hatch on West Canada Creek near Herkimer NY, (featured in one of those gawd-damn magazines recently) and had *some* luck using a pure white parachute, although I did have my share of refusals. Of course, the fish I caught could have been hopped up on goofballs and not known any better;-) Dave

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 Cast into a bush ?  take david copperfield along with you ?  helium filled wing-pads ? telekenesis ?  Inquiring minds want to know !!! — TimW Halfordian Golfer FarAndFine wrote in article – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Ever hear of the "blow fly technique"?  Read Borgers ‘Presentation’ and you’ll learn how to kee a fly two feet above the water without ever landing it.  No kidding.

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Ever hear of the "blow fly technique"?  Read Borgers ‘Presentation’ and you’ll learn how to kee a fly two feet above the water without ever landing it.  No kidding.

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    Dave Best not attempted among bats, martins, swallows, etc. I almost caught a swallow once during a thick hatch of large Light Cahills.  My #12 was floating on a placid stretch, just getting to the point where a brown was rising, when a swallow swooped out of nowhere, picked it off the water, carried it about 10 feet downstream (past where the trout was, BTW), and dropped it.  I still wonder what it would have been like had that swallow hooked itself.  =8-O Cheers, — Dave Guertin

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  Dave Best not attempted among bats, martins, swallows, etc. I almost caught a swallow once during a thick hatch of large Light Cahills.  My #12 was floating on a placid stretch, just getting to the point where a brown was rising, when a swallow swooped out of nowhere, picked it off the water, carried it about 10 feet downstream (past where the trout was, BTW), and dropped it.  I still wonder what it would have been like had that swallow hooked itself.  =8-O Cheers,

      We were in the Pecos last weekend, my son was fishing the cowels pond at dusk. He had two "creatures" flying around him and following his casts. One finally caught the fly on the backstroke and he slammed it into the pond. He said he caught a bird but I got to looking at them fly around, short bodies, no tail. I told him thats not a bird, that’s a bat! "Whoa! I caught a Bat!" he said "That’s sweet!" BTW he was using a #12 elk hair caddis, bat bait!

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I caught a swallow on a #12 elk hair caddis near the Lyons bridge on the Madison about five years ago….  in the presence of a conservation officer for Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks.  

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The Ephoron hatch is impressive. I fished it several times this year with good success.  If you watch the duns emerge, you should notice that they struggle to get our of their shuck, do a little tumble, and than are in the air. The hatch starts slow, with flies flying close to the water surface.   Next you see the trout trying to take the fly in mid-air.  I have tried a almost presentation; make a few false casts low over the area you have seen a fish, than with your final cast stop the fly about 2 feet above the water and let it float to the surface.  The take is sometimes in the air and sometimes as the fly touches the water, or sometimes nothing—— them just as they get to the surface or as they struggle to get out of their shuck.  The pattern that has worked the best for me and my fishing buddy JM, is the Usual – size #14.  Also, try a emerger with a trailing shuck of Zelon, white dubbed body, and a short wing/thich thorax, the wing can be snowshoe rabbit or Zelon. JWTrout

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Question:

Have opportunity to vacation in Breckenridge, Colorado this August and wonder if I will be near any trout streams or rivers if I choose this place. Any info. on spots, guides, etc. would be appreciated. Thanks, DLowe

        there is a fly shop in dillon, near the blue river, which i think is called "the columbine" that was very helpful to my son and myself a couple years ago when we took an unguided shot at colorado trout.  i think they have a sister shop in frisco.  the blue, itself, was a great piece of water.         good luck                 a. wayne harrison

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The Mountain Angler in Breckenridge is a great shop.  Well stocked and the post a map on the wall with directions and driving times to most public places within 2 hours.  They also post a chalkboard with fishing conditions and flies that are working based upon feedback from client visits.  They also have a variety of guided trips to public and private waters.  They are art 311 Main St (in the mall) ph 303-453-4665, last number I have.  The Gold Medal Fly Shop in Silverthorn 303-478-8961, 1130 Blue River Pky, on the road to Kremmling on the north side of town is a great, funky type fly shop.  Look for a small house in the trees, you will probably drive by it the first time.  Good selection of flies and terminal gear, very helpful owner.  It is always helpful to support the business by buying a few flies (or a $500 rod!) for their free advice.   Great fishing in the area.  The Blue on the north side of Breckenridge is quick,  the area of the Blue below Dillon Dam in Silverthorn directly behind the Outlet Malls! is Gold Medal, and many other places within an hours’ drive are excellent is the water is down to normal levels.  Last year it was late before fishing was good.  Also, the COLORADO ANGLING GUIDE by Chuck Frothergill (spelling?) is a great book and well worth the $28.  Good luck, I will be there in July and again in August.

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Have opportunity to vacation in Breckenridge, Colorado this August and wonder if I will be near any trout streams or rivers if I choose this place. Any info. on spots, guides, etc. would be appreciated. Thanks, DLowe

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Question:

   To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry

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  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

Hi Harry, I offer my ideas regarding the 5 things that make a high quality fly from my perspective, a commercial fly tier: 1. Durability – quality materials, strong hook, etc. 2. Proper proportions, tail length, hackle, etc. 3. Attractive to the fly fisher 4. Attractive to the fish 5. Will sell It will be interesting to see what other fly tiers/fisher think. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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   To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry

Harry,         Here’s my list of the five characteristics of a good quality fly: Durability – It has to last.  This isn’t art for art’s sake. Ease of tying – The point is to go fishing sometime this century.  I         lose enough flies that I need to tie more than one per day. Bugginess – Oh, that elusive quality.  If it doesn’t "look buggy" it         probably will never get tied on my tippet.  I’ve carried flies         for years that just don’t get a rise out of me. Availability of Ingredients – Part of this is my frugality.  But, part         is my ecological awareness.  If I’m going to have to spend         my tying and fishing time tracking down materials, I’m outta         here. Catches Fish – Course, before I know this, I’ve tracked down the         materials, easily tied the fly, am confident in its durability,         and have tied it on my tippet.  But, hey, this is what we’re         doing this for, isn’t it? Charley

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  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

Reply Never counted my reasons. 1. Do I enjoy tying the fly? 2. Does it REALLY require all of those materials that I don’t have? Can I sub. and    still have a good looking fly that will work. 3. Do I have confidence in the fly. 4. Do I need another fly like this one. How many of this type do I already carry that    I don’t use now. 5. And back to # 1. If I like to tie the fly thats what matters. I’m here for just      the fun.  CU, Steve Birkes Buckner, Mo.

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  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.

I can boil it down to just three things: 1.  It has to catch fish. 2.  It has to catch fish. 3.  It has to catch fish. Larry H.

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I fish mainly in still waters and I fine one other quality to be of importance when tying.I like to call this Pulsability; giving the illusion of a bubbling, pulsating, swimming creature. John Hafner

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Harry, as a former pro tyer I would have to say it’s more a case of WHO makes a good fly. Style and expertise does not come to everyone, even if you have the correct materials for any given pattern.   To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

– dave tait

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I fish mainly in still waters and I fine one other quality to be of importance when tying.I like to call this Pulsability; giving the illusion of a bubbling, pulsating, swimming creature. John Hafner

A good fly should take less time to tie than it does to lose it.    -Ralph —

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  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

1. proportion 2. balance 3. durability 4. castability 5. silouette these are what i shoot for when tying flies for stripers, etc. shade/color would probably come in 6th for me.                                                 jc

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        Does it catch fish?         That, essentially, is the bottom line.

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        Does it catch fish?         That, essentially, is the bottom line.

Yes, but,…… There are lots of flies out there that catch marlin, peacock bass, sharks, etc.  They catch fish, but are not a good fly for me.  I don’t get to sea too often.  And, when I do, I’m usually looking for salmon! So, now we have to add the delimiter, "Does it catch the fish I’m after?". This is such a complex question! :^) Charley

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         Does it catch fish?         That, essentially, is the bottom line. Yes, but,…… There are lots of flies out there that catch marlin, peacock bass, sharks, etc.  They catch fish, but are not a good fly for me.  I don’t get to sea too often.  And, when I do, I’m usually looking for salmon! So, now we have to add the delimiter, "Does it catch the fish I’m after?". This is such a complex question! :^) Charley

Hi Charley, Good point Charley! My flies always catch the fish I’m after IF i’m telling the story.?! Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Al Beatty said: Hi Charley, Good point Charley! My flies always catch the fish I’m after IF i’m telling the story.?!

Cheers for Al’s honesty.  I will add that if they don’t, I damn quick change the story. Dick Hubbard

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   To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry

Harry: 1. Ease of tying: most of us fit fly tying between the responsibilities work, running a home, and the ten o’clock news. Functional patterns are not necessarily a compromise. You can crank out a dozen brown-hackle-peacocks or BWO compara duns in the time it takes to tie half-as-many extended body paradrakes. This is not to say you don’t need extended body paradrakes–just save the more involved patterns for those rare occasions when you have a few hours to spend on the vice. 2. Proportions and technique: Spend time understanding how to size hackle and dimension tails; without such understanding, you can easily turn a humpy into a spider. Study A. K. Best’s "Production Fly Tying." He explains technique in this book, not recipes for ties (this book is made most valuable as a reference source: when you’re lashing down a moose mane tail, you can consult the book for a brief technique refresher before you begin, and your flies look a little better for your trouble). 3. Materials: Garbage in, garbage out. Webby dry fly hackle, too soft biots, it doesn’t matter. There’s nothing you can do to disguise poor materials. 4. Hooks: I used to recycle hooks but quit when I discovered that hooks grow weaker in boxes–every time your fly box gets submerged, the hooks will weaken from rust, particularly where the bend enters foam. I prefer Tiemco (particularly the 200R) and Daichi hooks. 5. Bottom Line: tie patterns that have proved their worth on the waters you fish. While just about any pattern will work at one time or another, there are a lot of useless diversions out there. Get to know old timers and knowledgable guides. They’ll turn you on to patterns you won’t find in books. Mitch Mulhall

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry Harry: 1. Ease of tying: most of us fit fly tying between the responsibilities work, running a home, and the ten o’clock news. Functional patterns are not necessarily a compromise. You can crank out a dozen brown-hackle-peacocks or BWO compara duns in the time it takes to tie half-as-many extended body paradrakes. This is not to say you don’t need extended body paradrakes–just save the more involved patterns for those rare occasions when you have a few hours to spend on the vice. 2. Proportions and technique: Spend time understanding how to size hackle and dimension tails; without such understanding, you can easily turn a humpy into a spider. Study A. K. Best’s "Production Fly Tying." He explains technique in this book, not recipes for ties (this book is made most valuable as a reference source: when you’re lashing down a moose mane tail, you can consult the book for a brief technique refresher before you begin, and your flies look a little better for your trouble). 3. Materials: Garbage in, garbage out. Webby dry fly hackle, too soft biots, it doesn’t matter. There’s nothing you can do to disguise poor materials. 4. Hooks: I used to recycle hooks but quit when I discovered that hooks grow weaker in boxes–every time your fly box gets submerged, the hooks will weaken from rust, particularly where the bend enters foam. I prefer Tiemco (particularly the 200R) and Daichi hooks. 5. Bottom Line: tie patterns that have proved their worth on the waters you fish. While just about any pattern will work at one time or another, there are a lot of useless diversions out there. Get to know old timers and knowledgable guides. They’ll turn you on to patterns you won’t find in books. Mitch Mulhall

  To Mitch and all who took the time to reply, thank you !!  I will take these notes to the start of yet another class Thursday night.   Again Thanks    Harry

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello,    I don’t know if anyone out there suffers from the same complex as I,  but i have become a lure collector rather than a versitile fisherman. I have filled multiple tackle boxes that are so big that  it is a major procedure to go for a simple pond fishing outing. I bring my 30 pound ( I have a lure for every situation) tackle box where ever I go. Well, this Christmas I received a fanny pack fishing box. For hours I have sorted and contemplated which lures and tackle should be included in my limeted space carrrying pack. Any suggestions? BTW, this fanny pack is great! Pockets galour. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Note: I open water fly fish, bass fish and fish for crappy when the bass aren’t hitting. Thanks, Paul              

I use the fanny pack method myself when bank fishing local lakes, ponds, and rivers.  It beats hell out of luggin around a heavy tackle box.  My fanny pack is not specifically designed for fishing, it’s just a square shaped pack that’s big enough to hold a couple of Plano Mini-Magmum boxes or a few zip-lock bags of Power Worms/Lizards/Grubs.  It has a smaller pocket for a hook remover or stringer (if I happen to catch one I want to keep  I have my Gerber Multi-Plers on the pack’s belt with a safety lanyard in case I drop them. What I do is load my fanny pack for each trip depending on what I’m fishing for and what tackle I’m using.  If I’m wormin’, I put in a few bags of worms and/or lizards and a Mini-Magnum with worm hooks, sinkers, beads, swivels, etc.  I also usually throw in a buzz bait, in case the mood strikes. I suggest you try this method.  Use your big tackle boxes to store the stuff, and, when you are getting ready to go fishing, pick out what you want to use for the day and put that in the fanny pack.  You can take a tackle box along and leave it in the car in case you loose something or if you find out they’re hitting something else that day. If you’re boat fishing, you can take a big box and leave the fanny pack at home if you want. I’m working on a way to carry a second rod & reel without tying up my other hand so I can switch easily between bait casting and spinning.  I’ll let you know on this newsgroup when I come up with a good method. Richard

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: : Hello, :  I don’t know if anyone out there suffers from the same complex as I, :  but i have become a lure collector rather than a versitile fisherman. I have : filled multiple tackle boxes that are so big that  it is a major procedure to : go : for a simple pond fishing outing. I bring my 30 pound ( I have a lure for : every : situation) tackle box where ever I go. Well, this Christmas I received a : fanny : pack fishing box. For hours I have sorted and contemplated which lures and : tackle should be included in my limeted space carrrying pack. Any : suggestions? : BTW, this fanny pack is great! Pockets galour. : Any advice would be greatly appreciated. : Note: I open water fly fish, bass fish and fish for crappy when the bass : aren’t : hitting. : Thanks, : Paul             : I use the fanny pack method myself when bank fishing local lakes, ponds, and : rivers.  It beats hell out of luggin around a heavy tackle box.  My fanny pack : is not specifically designed for fishing, it’s just a square shaped pack that’s : big enough to hold a couple of Plano Mini-Magmum boxes or a few zip-lock bags : of Power Worms/Lizards/Grubs.  It has a smaller pocket for a hook remover or : stringer (if I happen to catch one I want to keep  I have my Gerber : Multi-Plers on the pack’s belt with a safety lanyard in case I drop them. : What I do is load my fanny pack for each trip depending on what I’m fishing for : and what tackle I’m using.  If I’m wormin’, I put in a few bags of worms and/or : lizards and a Mini-Magnum with worm hooks, sinkers, beads, swivels, etc.  I : also usually throw in a buzz bait, in case the mood strikes. : I suggest you try this method.  Use your big tackle boxes to store the stuff, : and, when you are getting ready to go fishing, pick out what you want to use : for the day and put that in the fanny pack.  You can take a tackle box along : and leave it in the car in case you loose something or if you find out : they’re hitting something else that day. : If you’re boat fishing, you can take a big box and leave the fanny pack at home : if you want. : I’m working on a way to carry a second rod & reel without tying up my other : hand so I can switch easily between bait casting and spinning.  I’ll let you : know on this newsgroup when I come up with a good method. : Richard Rubber worms, a couple of spoons, a pack of perch hooks, several weighted head hooks (texas rig), couple a’ packs of hooks of various sizes, plastic minnows, a crank bait, and a spinner or two.  If you can’t find something they’ll bite on in that bunch, they ain’t bitin’.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello,    I don’t know if anyone out there suffers from the same complex as I, but i have become a lure collector rather than a versitile fisherman. I have filled multiple tackle boxes that are so big that  it is a major procedure to go for a simple pond fishing outing. I bring my 30 pound ( I have a lure for every situation) tackle box where ever I go. Well, this Christmas I received a fanny pack fishing box. For hours I have sorted and contemplated which lures and tackle should be included in my limeted space carrrying pack. Any suggestions? BTW, this fanny pack is great! Pockets galour. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Note: I open water fly fish, bass fish and fish for crappy when the bass aren’t hitting. Thanks, Paul                I wholeheartedly would take a Rapala minnow(s) (rainbow trout or

black/silver or black/gold) with me. They work great on top and as a shallow crankbait. Big bream love the smaller size, too. Also take a jointed minnow. And you can’t go wrong with a spinnerbait or two (one yellow and one blue/black)  good luck, –   JASON

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