Question:

No barbecue but we did end up with hamburgers at the beach grill.  I met up with Jon Cook on Monday to fish some of the surf near Los Angeles International Airport.  We jawed about some of our Great Lakes fishing memories and about life in academia.  When we got to the beach we saw a couple of corbina in skinny water.  It was low tide and the water was coming in.  We spotted some nice looking depressions in the sand.  If there were fish in this area they would soon be occupying those holes once the water filled in.  Jon got a look at some corbina and asked about them. I said I’d consider it a lucky day if we hooked into one.  Well, the fish were not there.  As the tide came in the corbina became more scarce.  My friend Jimmy tagged along with us and he did manage to catch a corbina. So maybe it was a lucky day after all.  All of us had a couple of strikes but failed to capitalize on the few opportunities.  Did end up with three perch landed between the three of us though.  The sea is a harsh mistress as they say.  Glad I did meet Jon though.  He says he will definitely go to the, as yet unplanned, next San Juan Clave.  Meet a ROFFian, meet a friend. Mu

Response:

Mu, you may have missed it on ROFF, but we noted your appearance in the SW Flyfishing article.  A very good article, btw. Glad I did meet Jon though.  He says he will definitely go to the, as yet unplanned, next San Juan Clave.  Meet a ROFFian, meet a friend.

Jon’s pretty slick at the San Juan.  We’ll have to do it again and get Jon to pick the days (early 2003 please).  We’ll hope for more willing next year although it’s always fun. bruce h

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Glad I did meet Jon though.  He says he will definitely go to the, as yet unplanned, next San Juan Clave.  Meet a ROFFian, meet a friend.

I missed Jon at the Juan last year. Willi

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Glad I did meet Jon though.  He says he will definitely go to the, as yet unplanned, next San Juan Clave.  Meet a ROFFian, meet a friend. I missed Jon at the Juan last year.

Awww, comon mon! It was a no-John Juan? rivermon

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Awww, comon mon! It was a no-John Juan? rivermon

So… it was a sans Juan? — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

Mu, you may have missed it on ROFF, but we noted your appearance in the SW Flyfishing article.  A very good article, btw.

Just re-read that article.  Bill wrote it about a year ago.  Reminded me of a whole bunch of little tactics that I have forgotten about.  Back when I was catching fewer fish I figured there were just very few fish around and that’s why I wasn’t catching them.  So I spent more time concentrating on casting technique and doing little things to maximize my success rate on the water.  Since then I’ve gotten a little lazy (mentally) and figure if I keep casting and covering lots of territory I will eventually hook up. Mu

Response:

  Since then I’ve gotten a little lazy (mentally) and figure if I keep casting and covering lots of territory I will eventually hook up.

My guess is that you now catch many more fish. That technique works. Willi

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Question:

We are planning a trip to the Laguna Madre late summer early fall.  Never been before.  Any help on flies, maps, places, etc would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance. Henry

Response:

We are planning a trip to the Laguna Madre late summer early fall.  Never been before.  Any help on flies, maps, places, etc would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance. Henry

Henry, what part of the Laguna Madre are you planning to visit? It runs about 120 miles from Corpus Christi south to the Brazos Santiago Pass at South Padre Island. For great fly fishing adventures, you can’t miss fishing with Capt. Joe Mendez, Capt. Bill Sheka or Capt. Billy Sandifer out of Corpus Christi. Out of Port Mansfield, try Capt. Charlie Buchen or Capt. Terry Neal. Out of  Arroyo City, I highly recommend Capt. Dan Coley and Capt. Rick Hartman.   Out of South Padre and Port Isabel, you can’t miss with Captains Eric Glass, Jim Stewart, Chuck Scates, Richard McInnis or Skipper Ray. Take lots of shrimp patterns and Clousers and have a great adventure. Phil Shook

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Question:

JeffC apparently wrote… I’ve heard this many times – when it’s drizzling or raining or snowing, the such-and-such really start hatching.  I remember the discussion of drying time for wings, but I’m wondering if there’s really something about a rain, even a light drizzle, that nymphs on the bottom can actually detect, and then be caused to respond to by hatching at that time.

Jeff, I don’t think anyone is saying it is the rain, snow or drizzle is what causes the hatch to kick in.  Think light levels during these periods and you should be able to get up to speed. — Warren change addy to yahoo for email Henry’s Fork Clave info and Bozeman, MT fishing info http://www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt3/HFclave.html

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Got out for a couple of hours today. For the first hour, the fish were taken midges, landed one and stung a couple more. Then heavy cloud cover came out, it started to intermittently rain and the Olives started hatching. I got moved out of the best stretch of water by a couple kids who moved in when they saw me catch a fish. They were flinging bobbers the size of tennis balls over the fish that were rising in less than a foot of water. I told them they would do better in the deep pool under the bridge but….. The stretch that I fished usually doesn’t fish very well until the water levels rise. However, with the cloud cover and the drizzle, the fish had moved into a shallow run to feed on the Olives. Being early in the hatch, it seemed that most fish were taking emergers. I caught a couple fish, then the sun came out and although it continued to drizzle, the Olives and the fish stopped. The sun stayed out for about ten minutes and then it took about another ten before the Olives and the fish started up again. Took one more fish and then it was time to leave. I tried to watch for Olives on the water, both during periods of cloud cover and during the intermittent sunny periods. I could look over a large placid pool and easily see the Olives on the water. Although the hatch wasn’t heavy, during cloudy periods, there were always at least half a dozen  Olives on the pool but none during the sunny periods. It could be that the Olives were flying off more quickly under the sun, but even though the sun was out, it continued to drizzle. Now that Olive "season" has started, I’ll try and make a point of observing this. Willi

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cut ….. Although the  hatch wasn’t heavy, during cloudy periods, there were always at least half a dozen  Olives on the pool but none during the sunny periods.

I’ve noticed this too. I’ve also noticed–especially in the early season leading up to high water and the salmon fly hatch (here in Montana) –that the fishing often turns on and off  semi-instantly, as the sun alternately hides and shows between dark,  early season cloud cover—–even when there is no apparent hatch of any kind. I’ve seen the fishing on the Big Hole go from spectacular to zip in just a few seconds, the minute a bright sun pops out from behind a cloud.  In the early season, I want to see those clam chowder skies…..and no wind.  Maybe that’s what they have in paradise:  60 degrees with fuzzy clouds and a soft rain, and no wind. And lots of trout streams.  On on my way.

Response:

Got out for a couple of hours today. For the first hour, the fish were taken midges, landed one and stung a couple more. Then heavy cloud cover came out, it started to intermittently rain and the Olives started hatching.

How could nymphs "know" that there was rain?  Sun vs. clouds, yes, barometric pressure, maybe, but in riffly water, how about rain?

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How could nymphs "know" that there was rain?  Sun vs. clouds, yes, barometric pressure, maybe, but in riffly water, how about rain?

Impact of rain on surface, chemical change in water, change in surface interaction with "light", stick their heads out and look? GKT

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Got out for a couple of hours today. For the first hour, the fish were taken midges, landed one and stung a couple more. Then heavy cloud cover came out, it started to intermittently rain and the Olives started hatching. How could nymphs "know" that there was rain?  Sun vs. clouds, yes, barometric pressure, maybe, but in riffly water, how about rain?

It was more in response to a comment that we see more Mayflies on the water during cloudy weather because it takes more time for them to dry (seems plausible). Later in my post I talked about not seeing many Mayflies when it was sunny, although it still continued to drizzle. Sun and drizzle at the same time wouldn’t seem to be too conducive to drying. Willi

Response:

It was more in response to a comment that we see more Mayflies on the water during cloudy weather because it takes more time for them to dry (seems plausible). Later in my post I talked about not seeing many Mayflies when it was sunny, although it still continued to drizzle. Sun and drizzle at the same time wouldn’t seem to be too conducive to drying.

I’ve heard this many times – when it’s drizzling or raining or snowing, the such-and-such really start hatching.  I remember the discussion of drying time for wings, but I’m wondering if there’s really something about a rain, even a light drizzle, that nymphs on the bottom can actually detect, and then be caused to respond to by hatching at that time.

Response:

I remember the discussion of drying time for wings, but I’m wondering if there’s really something about a rain, even a light drizzle, that nymphs on the bottom can actually detect, and then be caused to respond to by hatching at that time.

Well, maybe. But it could also be that the duns are on the surface for a longer time in cold drizzley weather, so the hatch seems heavier. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

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Question:

You left off the part about not being able to go fishing tomrrow Paul

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We have this office.  The biggest branch we have.  It has an NT server with a Raid 5 array and a duplex..  The container keeps getting "lost."  We reloaded the OS two weeks ago.  We put in the manufacturer’s monitoring software.  It went ppffffffth.  The manufacturer says, "Sorry, it can’t be uninstalled."  We have to replace the OS again.  I am not happy.  Replaced it this morning. Also packed the steelhead stuff. Went out to the parking lot for tools.  Dropped the tailgate and my school ring made a funny noise against the metal of the tailgate.   No stone.  I am not happy.  I search high and low, no stone.  Even took the server apart again, looking for it.  No stone.  I am sad. After, I went to the Credit River.  The winds were very high, the water was very high, fast and dirty.  I didn’t catch squat. I really not happy.   Went to the liquor store and bought a distiller’s edition 1984 Cragganmore speysider. Not so sad anymore. Will be tomorrow. Peter

Response:

You left off the part about not being able to go fishing tomrrow Paul

well, that and the Salmon River weather was the topper. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://members.home.net/pcharles/streamers/index.html

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The cat thought the fly was some sort of new plaything. She grabbed

it hooked herself and took off running OWW!!My mother in law caught the family dog one day,while on her way fishing back home n Louisiana.Dumb dog saw the line dangling from the rod over her shoulder,and hooked herself TWICE!!!My wife said that was the dumbest hunting dog they ever had.        Sorry bout your day btw,it always sucks when rotten stuff like that happens.Bout the best you can do is see that it could have been worse.My wifes a nurse,I’m a printer for a bank.I come home with stories of highstrung rude investment bankers,and she tells me about a patient that coded and died after 40 minutes of revival attempts.So I have a constant source of proof that it can always be worse.

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"So I have a constant source of proof that it can always be worse." I know. A few years ago my daughter died from RSV (a respiratory virus). My wife and I soon divorced though not a messy one. I would send a picture but this isn’t a binary group. I did learn to fly fish though in an effort to cope with Ashlynn’s death. Now I am back in school about to complete my associates in eletrical technology and I am thinking of moving to Idaho to start my electrical apprentice. Better flyfishing there then in Alabama. I wish everyone all the best in life Michael

Response:

…well, if you can talk crappy, i can talk bass… yesterday, was the maiden voyage of the new gheenoe in search of ol bucketmouth.           for several months, i’ve been looking for a good fishing boat i could paddle and handle alone, but that was more stable than a canoe and offered more room than a kayak. i wanted a gheenoe, but couldn’t find one at any of the boat places i had visited in the area.  harley gheen designed the boat in the early 70s, and they have an excellent reputation as a shallow draft, easy paddling (though not as easy as a canoe), stable fishing boat. They are made in titusville, florida, and are used in the florida flats for bone and tarpon fishing, in the inland waterways, and on lakes and canals. the 15′ 4" model accomodates 2 very comfortably, with plenty of room for all the necessities.  it has a small squared stern that will hold up to a 9 hp outboard.  while not exactly light at 120 pounds, i can lift and slide it into the back of my truck, and i can drag it to the canals and waters i like to fish for bass. the draft of only 3-4" is a real asset too.         anyway, while up in windsor, nc on business, i planned a short diversion to the cashie river for an hour of shad fishing from the shore. on the way to the river, i saw them – gheenoes sitting like daffodils in the yard of a boat and tackle dealership on the cashie. 20 minutes later, the gheenoe was loaded in my truck bed and my weekend was shaping up.           on saturday, me and charlie adams headed for hyde county.  we were in the impoundment by 9 am and fished until dark.  the gheenoe is a fantastic boat for paddling in the shallows where the bass hang out, and it will move along at a good clip in the deeper water with two average paddlers. we took our fly rods along just in case the anticipated warm weather stimulated some top water bugz action. charlie spent a while standing up with his flyrod tossing bugz without success… but, the test ride proved the gheenoe to be an ideal flyfishing platform and a nice, stable ride.  i recommend it as a very versatile boat.   …and peter, it’s a good boat for a day of crappie too… jeff – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – <snipped the canuck’s lament ad lame excuse for gettin tipsy)

Response:

We have 8< Peter

stiff upper lip and all that ‘ole chap! –waldo…. wishin peter a big fish…pdq.

Response:

I’ll trade ya for replacing the shower stall I promised my wife I’d do tomorrow instead of goin’ steelheadin’….  ;-)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We have this office.  The biggest branch we have.  It has an NT server with a Raid 5 array and a duplex..  The container keeps getting "lost."  We reloaded the OS two weeks ago.  We put in the manufacturer’s monitoring software.  It went ppffffffth.  The manufacturer says, "Sorry, it can’t be uninstalled."  We have to replace the OS again.  I am not happy.  Replaced it this morning. Also packed the steelhead stuff. Went out to the parking lot for tools.  Dropped the tailgate and my school ring made a funny noise against the metal of the tailgate.   No stone.  I am not happy.  I search high and low, no stone.  Even took the server apart again, looking for it.  No stone.  I am sad. After, I went to the Credit River.  The winds were very high, the water was very high, fast and dirty.  I didn’t catch squat. I really not happy.   Went to the liquor store and bought a distiller’s edition 1984 Cragganmore speysider. Not so sad anymore. Will be tomorrow. Peter

Response:

Oh been there, I guess we all have. Let me share a story with you about a crappy day I had about a year ago. I caught a cat. I bought a StCroix UFT906 rod and hadn’t had it about week when I was practicing my casting a bit in the front yard. Then set the rod against the side of my car. I had a little fly of some sort on there (should have removed it before practicing in the yard). Well the tippett and fly was dangling as I was getting ready to put it up. The cat thought the fly was some sort of new plaything. She grabbed it hooked herself and took off running through my carport. My new 9 foot rod with my Ross Canyon reel went through a 3 foot door. All I saw was the rod come apart. I guess it could have been worse, the only part of the rod that was actually broke the end piece (littlest). Now instead of a 9′ rod it became a 8′6 rod. I did get the piece replaced so its back to 9′. Couple of scratches on the Ross:-( Hang in there good days will acome. At least that is what they tell me. Oh yeah I really thought of killing the cat but I can’t totally blame her. It was hit by a car several months later. michael

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We have this office.  The biggest branch we have.  It has an NT server with a Raid 5 array and a duplex..  The container keeps getting "lost."  We reloaded the OS two weeks ago.  We put in the manufacturer’s monitoring software.  It went ppffffffth.  The manufacturer says, "Sorry, it can’t be uninstalled."  We have to replace the OS again.  I am not happy.  Replaced it this morning. Also packed the steelhead stuff. Went out to the parking lot for tools.  Dropped the tailgate and my school ring made a funny noise against the metal of the tailgate.   No stone.  I am not happy.  I search high and low, no stone.  Even took the server apart again, looking for it.  No stone.  I am sad. After, I went to the Credit River.  The winds were very high, the water was very high, fast and dirty.  I didn’t catch squat. I really not happy.   Went to the liquor store and bought a distiller’s edition 1984 Cragganmore speysider. Not so sad anymore. Will be tomorrow. Peter

Response:

We have this office.  The biggest branch we have.  It has an NT server with a Raid 5 array and a duplex..  The container keeps getting "lost."  We reloaded the OS two weeks ago.  We put in the manufacturer’s monitoring software.  It went ppffffffth.  The manufacturer says, "Sorry, it can’t be uninstalled."  We have to replace the OS again.  I am not happy.  Replaced it this morning. Also packed the steelhead stuff. Went out to the parking lot for tools.  Dropped the tailgate and my school ring made a funny noise against the metal of the tailgate.   No stone.  I am not happy.  I search high and low, no stone.  Even took the server apart again, looking for it.  No stone.  I am sad. After, I went to the Credit River.  The winds were very high, the water was very high, fast and dirty.  I didn’t catch squat. I really not happy.   Went to the liquor store and bought a distiller’s edition 1984 Cragganmore speysider. Not so sad anymore. Will be tomorrow. Peter

Response:

Question:

I know that you specifically wanted a rod of 7′ or longer, but my recommendation is actually a bit smaller.   For several years G. Loomis manufactured a 6′ 6" 3 weight that was superb.   It was an IM6 rod, designated the 783.   The blank was available for $78, and I built quite a number of them for myself and for friends.   The rod was a truly superb casting tool, and while it was at its best doing 20-25 foot rapid casts fishing dries in pocket water, it actually had the backbone to lay out 50 feet of line or better at need.     You can still find the blanks from time to time, and I’d highly recommend them.   I believe that Loomis actually produced this blank in one of the newer series with a higher modulus graphite, but I haven’t personally used one.                                 Michael – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Vern, I can tell you that most of the small rods that a under $300 won’t load up with a #2 or #3 line. If a rod is rated #2/3 and needs a #4 line to load it up at 30′, well it is a 4 weight rod. I would buy a small reel and put on a double taper 2 or 3 floating line and then go find a rod 8′ or less that cast it well. You will have fun with this rod. If money is no object, I would look at the Sage 8′ 2" #2 SPL or the Winston 7′6" #2 IM6. If you have about $2,100 to spend, I would get a Winston split cane 7′6" #4 for small streams? I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern  ^^^^^^^ (o)-(o)/     v   {—} Before you buy.

Response:

Why? Vern U. i speak, of course, of the one, the only, thomas & thomas!  don’t make no diff’rence about how long it is…just make sure it’s a thomas.

The esteemed barrister is correct on this one.. Cast a Paradigm, sweet forgiving moderate action which still allows for some booming. Cast a Vector, fast action rod with a forgiving tip, cast an LPS, almost nothing will lay a fly down as soft. The only company even close to them is Winston, IMO. In their many models, some of us think they are the best rods out there, better yet try and get your hands on a discontinued Heritage or XL model. Sadly, or gladly their marketing is not as good as the others and to a certain extent there a victim of their own arrogance but get your hands on one and you might well be…..changed. In this case you do get what you pay for. — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas Before you buy.

Response:

If money is no object, I would look at the Sage 8′ 2" #2 SPL or the Winston 7′6" #2 IM6.  If you have about $2,100 to spend, I would get a Winston split cane 7′6" #4 for small streams?

Bill, If money is no object then he needs to have Brackett custom make him a Winston Quadrate 7′#3 for $2,550 or if insists upon graphite get one of aren’t as good as T&T’s but those quads are something else. I’m sure you’re a fine fly shop owner but man it’s business, get a little greedier — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas Before you buy.

Response:

Is this recommendation primarily price or performance driven? Vern U. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yeah, what he said.  Don’t you just hate metooers?  Seriously, the Cabela’s 3 Forks 7 footer is a sweet little rod and I picked up the combo on

Response:

Why? Vern U. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i speak, of course, of the one, the only, thomas & thomas!  don’t make no diff’rence about how long it is…just make sure it’s a thomas.

Response:

Hi Vern, I can tell you that most of the small rods that a under $300 won’t load up with a #2 or #3 line. If a rod is rated #2/3 and needs a #4 line to load it up at 30′, well it is a 4 weight rod. I would buy a small reel and put on a double taper 2 or 3 floating line and then go find a rod 8′ or less that cast it well. You will have fun with this rod. If money is no object, I would look at the Sage 8′ 2" #2 SPL or the Winston 7′6" #2 IM6.  If you have about $2,100 to spend, I would get a Winston split cane 7′6" #4 for small streams?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern  ^^^^^^^ (o)-(o)/     v   {—} Before you buy.

Response:

 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks. Vern, last November, I purchased a St. Croix Legend Ultra 3wt

I built a 7.5′ 3wt rod from a Legend Ultra blank and agree that it is a nice rod for small streams. — Charlie…

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern Vern: I’ll give you a recommendation you’ve seen before – the Cabela’s Three Forks 7.5′ three piece, with reel, line and backing for around $50 as I recall.  The other recommendations I’ve seen are good, but at that price you will not believe the quality of that rod.  John Popp got me in to this, and I haven’t seen him post recently – guess it’s up to me to carry the Cabela’s banner for a while.  I’ve got Winstons and Scotts that are great, but when you compare the price…. Mark Faulkner

        well, now, vern, ol man, you can either listen to marky boy, here (he’s a lawyer, you know…hell, what’s worse is, he is a goddam *yankee* lawyer, and you know how little you can trust *those* bastards!  btw, have i told you the story of the lawyer and the priest and the…), and all these other well-meaning slugs; *or* you can forget all about these cheap noodle sticks and get you an honest to god *fly rod*:  i speak, of course, of the one, the only, thomas & thomas!  don’t make no diff’rence about how long it is…just make sure it’s a thomas. wayno, paragon of objectivity – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern Vern: I’ll give you a recommendation you’ve seen before – the Cabela’s Three Forks 7.5′ three piece, with reel, line and backing for around $50 as I recall.  The other recommendations I’ve seen are good, but at that price you will not believe the quality of that rod.  John Popp got me in to this, and I haven’t seen him post recently – guess it’s up to me to carry the Cabela’s banner for a while.  I’ve got Winstons and Scotts that are great, but when you compare the price…. Mark Faulkner         well, now, vern, ol man, you can either listen to marky boy, here (he’s a lawyer, you know…hell, what’s worse is, he is a goddam *yankee* lawyer, and you know how little you can trust *those* bastards!  btw, have i told you the story of the lawyer and the priest and the…), and all these other well-meaning slugs; *or* you can forget all about these cheap noodle sticks and get you an honest to god *fly rod*:  i speak, of course, of the one, the only, thomas & thomas!  don’t make no diff’rence about how long it is…just make sure it’s a thomas. wayno, paragon of objectivity

Vern, you can take wayno’s advise, but be forewarned. You will be taking advise from a temporal filament of a Harry Crews novel. I shake you not. I have witnessed this man, he is the hawk is dying, childhood, car, and gospel singer rolled into one very effusive melodramatic personality. After all, he’s darwinian waldo, paragon of fiction — Ezflyfish.com http://www.ezflyfish.com BRBG http://www.abebooks.com/home/BLUEBOOKS P.O. Box 5112  Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)963-5001

Response:

I’ve heard that the inexpensive lower wt rods have a problem loading correctly.  Does anyone else have a problem with this?  How about the Diamondback Classic Trout 2 piece 7′ 9" 2 wt or 3 wt rod?  I saw it on ezflyfish.com for $430.  Now that Diamondback is associated with Cortland, does any one know if the prices will stay the same? Vern U. Before you buy.

Response:

I’ve heard that the inexpensive lower wt rods have a problem loading correctly.  Does anyone else have a problem with this?  How about the Diamondback Classic Trout 2 piece 7′ 9" 2 wt or 3 wt rod?  I saw it on ezflyfish.com for $430.  Now that Diamondback is associated with Cortland, does any one know if the prices will stay the same? Vern U. Before you buy.

ok Vern, you sucked me in to this tempest. Without journeying down the perilous path of the merits of a 50 or 60 dollar outfit, let it be understood, that those outfits are "great" in price. Performance is another matter that is best determined in the hands of the berodder. IMO, the Diamondback Classic Trout will be too slow for you. It is a rod that performs admirably on the small streams here in the east but for the large Western rivers (and I’m assuming that is what you are buying for) I would go with a faster rod. The All-American is a beat or two faster and economically priced. The VSR and Aero-flex are faster rods that would serve you well on Western rivers. There isn’t much press here in America for the Hardy Graphites. Their downfall of course is not offering a lifetime warranty which in all likelihood will be changing soon. With that said, I’ve fished all of their models and I’d rate them very, very good. The Ultralite Plus is fast, in fact, way too fast for the small stream fishing that I do. I was more comfortable with the Ultralite and the Featherlite models here. Addressing your last question, I’d be very surprised to see a lowering of price on the Diamondback line. Perusing the latest pricing literature, it does appear that the 1998-99 prices will remain the same through the 2000 season. –Walt — Ezflyfish.com http://www.ezflyfish.com BRBG http://www.abebooks.com/home/BLUEBOOKS P.O. Box 5112  Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)963-5001

Response:

Mu, if it is in Albuquerque, it is the same.  Bob started his shop about 3 years ago, I think, to supplement his rod building.  I haven’t seen a net page yet but if I do, I’ll send it to you. DP – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I fish a lot in New Mexico which is the land of small streams.  Bob Widgren of Los Pinos Rods in Albuquerque is fairly famous locally for his nice work, especially the short rods. If he’s associated with Los Pinos Fly Shop, just gotta say they were the first fly shop where I walked in and felt really welcome. Mu

Response:

 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern  ^^^^^^^ (o)-(o)/     v   {—} Before you buy.

I fish a lot in New Mexico which is the land of small streams.  Bob Widgren of Los Pinos Rods in Albuquerque is fairly famous locally for his nice work, especially the short rods.  I have a 7′ 4wt and an 8′ 5wt that are Powell blanks.  Bob uses a different blank now and will build you just about anything you want.  His prices are right in line with factory also.  The 7′ is a wonderful little wand for wading down a willow canopied stream (Rio in NM!).  The Cimarron River from Eagles Nest Dam through the canyon is a perfect place for these little rods.  I purchased this year a Scott 7 1/2′ 3wt STS which is really nice.  It is a faster rod than my Scott PowrPly but is not too fast.  I don’t think they are going to make this rod anymore which is a shame. Hope that helped. DP

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 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern  ^^^^^^^ (o)-(o)/     v   {—} Before you buy.

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 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.

Sounds like cane water to me but if you insist upon plastic… Any Winston IM6, T&T LPS, or if you can fine one, the Sage LL’s would treat you right. — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas Before you buy.

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bc, I got a #3 Teton for spring. They coil the line up in neat little loops, just how I like it ! (not) I regret not getting the #4 for my 3wt rod instead. No complaints about the quality or overall performance though, a couple of 3-4lb hen rainbows last November got me into the backing, the little Teton must have been doing 15,000rpm! A number of people have commented on the reel, thinking it was a toy, or an ornament. Cheers John Knight Sydney FlyRodders’

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 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern

Vern: I’ll give you a recommendation you’ve seen before – the Cabela’s Three Forks 7.5′ three piece, with reel, line and backing for around $50 as I recall.  The other recommendations I’ve seen are good, but at that price you will not believe the quality of that rod.  John Popp got me in to this, and I haven’t seen him post recently – guess it’s up to me to carry the Cabela’s banner for a while.  I’ve got Winstons and Scotts that are great, but when you compare the price…. Mark Faulkner

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I fish a lot in New Mexico which is the land of small streams.  Bob Widgren of Los Pinos Rods in Albuquerque is fairly famous locally for his nice work, especially the short rods.

If he’s associated with Los Pinos Fly Shop, just gotta say they were the first fly shop where I walked in and felt really welcome. Mu

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 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern

Wait, wait, wait,….we’ve got this all wrong!  Vern was asking for a fly rod for a FLY-FISHING-MIDGET!  Obviously what Vern is looking for is an Orvis Midge 7′ 3 wt. rod with Midge Heirloom 2-3 reel!  Now, Orvis doesn’t list the Midge in their on-line catalogue but I’m sure there are a few out there on e-bay or gathering dust in the ROFF attics.  How ’bout it fellows!?  Got Midge?! — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

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Yeah, what he said.  Don’t you just hate metooers?  Seriously, the Cabela’s 3 Forks 7 footer is a sweet little rod and I picked up the combo on they’re *giving* you the reel, line, backing and a SA leader.  Tough to beat this one.  I was so impressed I went right back to the trough and bought their 8′ 5 wt combo for the same price.  I don’t think there’s another rod on the market today that can come even close to these for the price, a surprisingly nice rod.  Good luck on your search Vern.– Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.   Vern Vern: I’ll give you a recommendation you’ve seen before – the Cabela’s Three Forks 7.5′ three piece, with reel, line and backing for around $50 as I recall.  The other recommendations I’ve seen are good, but at that price you will not believe the quality of that rod.  John Popp got me in to this, and I haven’t seen him post recently – guess it’s up to me to carry the Cabela’s banner for a while.  I’ve got Winstons and Scotts that are great, but when you compare the price…. Mark Faulkner

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 I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.

Vern, last November, I purchased a St. Croix Legend Ultra 3wt and paired it up with a Teton #3 reel.  Incredible combination. Rod has anodized aluminum reel seats, a non-glare titanium finish, bird’s-eye maple inserts, Titanium plated single foot fly guides, Super Grade Cork Handle.  Unconditional lifetime warranty. Rod $250.00, Reel $160.00, time spent fishing – priceless bc.

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Vern, Have a look at the Diamondback.  My 6.5 ft. rod is a dream of a 3 wt. Ezflyfish sells this rod.  St. Croix also has a nice rod in this class.  It is a little faster than the Diamondback and has a different feel.  Try them both and see what you think. Wayne To fish is human…to release Divine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.  Vern ^^^^^^^ (o)-(o)/    v  {—} Before you buy.

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I’m looking for a nice 7′-7.5′ 2/3 wt rod for small streams.  Could someone suggest a nice rod to get?  Thanks.

Vern, I had a desire for the same rod a few years ago, so I decided I’d save a few dollars and build one as a winter project.  I used a  6 1/2′ Pacific Bay 2-wt. blank, purchased for about $40, and decent hardware.   The rod is "OK" at best.   Skimping on the blank was the problem.   I have a suspicion that with a rod this small, the blank quality will make a more noticeable difference in rod performance. Anyway, the rod is a ball, and I regret not building it with a better blank. I like using the small rod so much, I’ll probably replace it with a new St.Croix, or build a better rod of similar proportion. Have fun, Bob Scott

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bc, I got a #3 Teton for spring. They coil the line up in neat little loops, just how I like it ! (not)

I have not had that problem…..yet.  But I have only had it for two months now and have only fished with it 6 times.  I plan on using it this weekend in Colorado.  I am using the Rio Camo 3wt fly line with mine. I regret not getting the #4 for my 3wt rod instead. No complaints about the quality or overall performance though, a couple of 3-4lb hen rainbows last November got me into the backing, the little Teton must have been doing 15,000rpm!

Yea last month near the dam on the San Juan I hooked a monster.  It made the most high pitch scream I have heard a reel make.  Next thing I know I saw bright green dacron shooting up my eyelets. I looked over at Andy Kim who was busy with his own lunker, saying, "Hey Andy I know what color my backing is."   I think I had 3 loops of backing left before I got the fish to turn.  The damn thing was clear across the other side of the river.  Well after 15-20 minutes, I knelt down, released a nice fat bow.  Andy just looked at me, and said, "Ah Dave, you have become very self sufficient." A number of people have commented on the reel, thinking it was a toy, or an ornament.

I looked at the #4, but I liked how it balanced with my Legend Ultra 3wt. bc.

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Question:

Does anyone know of an island with good fly fishing in the Caribbean? I’m specifically talking about the Eastern Caribbean, the islands they call the Lesser Antilles. My wife wants to go on vacation there, and I’m trying to figure out what I’m going to do while she lies on the beach… Thanks for any help. Simon Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

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The Virgin Islands have a few flats. St John is actually very nice is many ways. You have to be careful though. I was held up at gun point in St Thomas last year when fishing probably the best flat which is off a beach that only locals go to. St John does not have that problem and is mostly a national park. I. Clair

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Question:

Attn:  Warren Funk Warren, If you are still interested in finding background for the knot you described I have found a name and diagram in some of my archives. It is called a Pitzen Knot.  I only have a print out of it that I have collected somewhere off a net site quite sometime ago.  The site probably doesn’t exist anymore.  I may have it shown in my "knot bible" but it is in the boat away from here. The tying technique is somewhat different than you described but I have tied the knot using yours and the diagram and I’m quite sure it is the same knot. I was quite intrigued with your description and technique for the knot and have been using it. The illustration I have on hand is not great but I think it would scan adequately.  I would be glad to do so and e-mail it to you or put it in the binary newsgroup if interested.

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No need to do any of the tasks listed.  Just go to Alta Vista and search for "Pitzen Knot".  I got several hits.  One of which: http://nucleus.agron.missouri.edu/flyfishing/pitzen.html  has a good description and rating on the knot.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Attn:  Warren Funk Warren, If you are still interested in finding background for the knot you described I have found a name and diagram in some of my archives. It is called a Pitzen Knot.  I only have a print out of it that I have collected somewhere off a net site quite sometime ago.  The site probably doesn’t exist anymore.  I may have it shown in my "knot bible" but it is in the boat away from here. The tying technique is somewhat different than you described but I have tied the knot using yours and the diagram and I’m quite sure it is the same knot. I was quite intrigued with your description and technique for the knot and have been using it. The illustration I have on hand is not great but I think it would scan adequately.  I would be glad to do so and e-mail it to you or put it in the binary newsgroup if interested.

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Al – thanks for checking on this.  I would have to try both and see what they look like when finished, but I can guarantee that the way I tie it is a whole lot faster and simpler than the way it is shown on the web site you gave.  I also thought that the Hangman’s knot looked very similar, and may be the same knot at the Pitzen knot. Warren Funk

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Attn:  Warren Funk Warren, If you are still interested in finding background for the knot you described I have found a name and diagram in some of my archives. It is called a Pitzen Knot.  I only have a print out of it that I have collected somewhere off a net site quite sometime ago.  The site probably doesn’t exist anymore.  I may have it shown in my "knot bible" but it is in the boat away from here. The tying technique is somewhat different than you described but I have tied the knot using yours and the diagram and I’m quite sure it is the same knot. I was quite intrigued with your description and technique for the knot and have been using it. The illustration I have on hand is not great but I think it would scan adequately.  I would be glad to do so and e-mail it to you or put it in the binary newsgroup if interested.

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One of the sites I ran into looking for this showed another method, a variation of slinging the lure around the line.  I had opted for this method when using a heavy stiff 20+ACM- line that gave me trouble slinging it around. I let the lure hang down and wrapped the line around the vertical hanging line while holding on to the line and clinching loop. I use the Hangman’s Knot (Uni Knot) and I’m sure it is not the Pitzen Knot. Another one I use is the Scaffold Knot (Centauri).  I tie it by extending my forefinger beyond the tip of my thumb that is pinching the standing line and wrap the loose end 3 times around my finger tip, slip off the coil and run the loose end through the coils in the direction of the standing line.  It can also be doubled at the eye. Warren Funk …wrote … +AD4- …I would have to try both and see what +AD4- they look like when finished, but I can guarantee that the way I tie it is a +AD4- whole lot faster and simpler than the way it is shown on the web site you +AD4- gave.  I also thought that the Hangman’s knot looked very similar, and may +AD4- be the same knot at the Pitzen knot. +AD4- Al wrote … +AD4- +AD4- If you are still interested in finding background for the knot you +AD4- described +AD4- +AD4- I have found a name and diagram in some of my archives. +AD4- +AD4- It is called a Pitzen Knot…

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – major snip Considering we are giving the Electrica Power Companies 100% of our rivers potential energies without setting 10% of it aside for spawning canals around those huge power structures, is insane.  We are allowing them and the high-seas robbers to destroy a multi-billion dollar economy in fishing resources in the interior economy base of this Nation without so much as a whimper, by comparison.  If the organizations that are fighting this problem were as effective as the dams that prevent free swimming fish to go and come on their own . . . these organizations would have won years ago. We need to see more and a stronger dynamic stand against the vandal few against the responsible majority.  It has to stop.  Soon! — Tillamook Country Smoker, Inc.

Bob, you bring up a point that I had not revisited in a long time.  The livestock issue to the proximity of clean waters that is going to voted on needs posting and explaining here as soon as possible.  I have an extensive study done on this years ago that cost my company tens of thousands of dollars called:"Wildlife: An American Ideal & Her Values" It directly attacks the dangers poised against our fisheries and outdoor inventories and how Livestock and other special interests (Logging)is destroying it before our very eyes. We the people need to get control back of our American Outdoors.  There is a way to do it.  I need to hear more of what you have to say Bob and I’m looking for a good reciepe for smoking fish. Thanks and you have my interest. George Gehrke

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I am look for a way to cook steelhead any recipe that have been used would be appreciated. Thanks Roger

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Cut head off and chuck. slice 1-2 lemons into wheels place a sheet of foil onto a cookie sheet Lay wheels o’ lemon onto foil. put salt & pepper into cavity (season to taste) place fish onto wheels o’ lemon pour 1-2 cups of soy sauce onto fish letting it drain into foil close up the foil LOOSELY (you want to make a "oven") place on BBQ (low heat) or in a oven 300, 15-30 minutes. Tasty — Bob Crossley oregoncoast.com I am look for a way to cook steelhead any recipe that have been used

would be appreciated. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks Roger

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I am look for a way to cook steelhead any recipe that have been used would be appreciated. Thanks Roger

I hope you mean a recipe for those hatchery steelhead. Sorry if I might offend some out there, but I don’t think we can afford to kill any wild steelhead in North America. Fifty years ago it was OK, as the ratio of steelhead to angler was quite different. I might seem a little blunt, but it is probably because I have fished for steelhead for the last 35 years and have watched them fad away at an alarming rate. Lose of habitat from dams, hatcheries, logging, agriculture and general de-watering is the problem, not angling. When there are not many wild steelhead left, uncontrolled angling can be a problem. William Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA

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major snip Considering we are giving the Electrica Power Companies 100% of our rivers potential energies without setting 10% of it aside for spawning canals around those huge power structures, is insane.  We are allowing them and the high-seas robbers to destroy a multi-billion dollar economy in fishing resources in the interior economy base of this Nation without so much as a whimper, by comparison.  If the organizations that are fighting this problem were as effective as the dams that prevent free swimming fish to go and come on their own . . . these organizations would have won years ago. We need to see more and a stronger dynamic stand against the vandal few against the responsible majority.  It has to stop.  Soon! Mr. George Gehrke

I agree with you G, but in addition to the Columbia Basin problem, we need to look at how we treat our river systems as a whole to save our fisheries.  In my area, gravel harvesting from historical spawning bed areas have decimated not only the Chum Salmon run, but also the Sea Run Cutthroat and the Winter & Summer runs of  wild Steelhead.  This area is also a major Dairy producer, i.e.. cattle run off right into the rivers.  We have no dams, but the problems facing the "wild" fish is just as formidable. Tackling the Dam problem is a very important issue, but an overall introspection into how we affect our rivers is also very worthy. On Oregon’s Nov. 5th ballot is a measure that addresses the issue of cattle in proximity to bodies of water.  The measure is not exactly a cure all, but it is a "measure" in the right direction. — Bob Crossley Tillamook Country Smoker, Inc.

Response:

Cut head off and chuck. slice 1-2 lemons into wheels place a sheet of foil onto a cookie sheet Lay wheels o’ lemon onto foil. put salt & pepper into cavity (season to taste) place fish onto wheels o’ lemon pour 1-2 cups of soy sauce onto fish letting it drain into foil close up the foil LOOSELY (you want to make a "oven") place on BBQ (low heat) or in a oven 300, 15-30 minutes. Tasty

I’ve used a similar recipe with an addition and a change.  Cut up some zuchinni, carrots, celery, or other similar veggies and stuff the cavity. Instead of foil use baking parchement paper and seal it up tight.  Cooking time is about the same and when you’re done you’ll also have some vegetables for a side dish that are perfectly steamed.  The veggies also contribute some natural juices so you don’t need quite as much soy sauce. — John Fereira Isis Distributed Systems – Ithaca, NY

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am look for a way to cook steelhead any recipe that have been used would be appreciated. Thanks Roger I hope you mean a recipe for those hatchery steelhead. Sorry if I might offend some out there, but I don’t think we can afford to kill any wild steelhead in North America. Fifty years ago it was OK, as the ratio of steelhead to angler was quite different. I might seem a little blunt, but it is probably because I have fished for steelhead for the last 35 years and have watched them fad away at an alarming rate. Lose of habitat from dams, hatcheries, logging, agriculture and general de-watering is the problem, not angling. When there are not many wild steelhead left, uncontrolled angling can be a problem. William Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA

I think the greatest theif of Steelhead and Western Salmon Species is on the high seas and especially in the Gulf of Alaska by the Japanese and Commercial Netters.  The plunder is a criminal activity that boggles the mind.  The criminals go unpunished and the thief is flaggrant.  The criminal to the species declines are not the American Rodders who pay huge license fees but the former culprits I speak of.  The additional crime is the high-seas-netters not only extermine, what is left over to return to the spawning beds leaves ALL OF US with a guilt trip that is not of our doing.  I resent that label forced upon the responsible spirit of all fly fishermen who have little or nothing to do with those native salmon and/or steelhead families that are now going extinct. I agree about the dams being a major problem and the only reason that they continue to decimate the spawning rights of wildlife is because we are not organized.  We deal in fractured groups but we are not talking to the American People where our real power-base resides. We could have had spawing channels around ALL our dams on the Columbia River Drainage years ago and it would only take copper scent rods to get all the fish around and over all the dams at their pace and wishes, but no . . . the answer is too obvious and too simple. At least, this is my opinion.  Bill Kiene’s displeasure is certainly well founded.  I am for a serious conference that augments any positive effort to get those canals built in short order.  They do NOT have to be studied to death, they work and they are long overdue.  I have flown over every dam along the Columbia River to the Pacific ocean and we certainly have the land available or obtainable to get this project and problem resolved. Considering we are giving the Electrica Power Companies 100% of our rivers potential energies without setting 10% of it aside for spawning canals around those huge power structures, is insane.  We are allowing them and the high-seas robbers to destroy a multi-billion dollar economy in fishing resources in the interior economy base of this Nation without so much as a whimper, by comparison.  If the organizations that are fighting this problem were as effective as the dams that prevent free swimming fish to go and come on their own . . . these organizations would have won years ago. We need to see more and a stronger dynamic stand against the vandal few against the responsible majority.  It has to stop.  Soon! Mr. George Gehrke

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Question:

I saw a piece of Montana land for sale the other day–40 acres with (big) beautiful spring creek, panoramic mountain views, deer, geese, beavers, sand hill cranes, osprey, brown trout, wild flowers, skunks, eagles, elk etc, and it got me wondering (I’m not selling, just asking)….how much do people who don’t live in Montana think such a piece of land should sell for?   Yes, it’s true: my question is only marginally realted fly fishing, but I am curious about the answer.

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$ 250,000 …. Can I borrow some money ?

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That depends on whether you are going to let the public fish it !

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: I saw a piece of Montana land for sale the other day–40 acres with : (big) beautiful spring creek, panoramic mountain views, deer, geese, : beavers, sand hill cranes, osprey, brown trout, wild flowers, skunks, : eagles, elk etc, and it got me wondering (I’m not selling, just : asking)….how much do people who don’t live in Montana think : such a piece of land should sell for? That depends totally on the location, Sandy.  I’m sure you know that, so I’m not certain what your point is.  But hey, I’ll bite. Around here (Moscow, N. Idaho), you might get a piece like that for $60K. Down on the Clearwater, it would run a little more than twice that. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Assistant professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

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Question:

I’m looking for somewhere in Santa Cruz and surrounding areas to throw a dry-fly.  Does anyone know of some place like that … Also, what about catfishing in the local sloughs? Thanks Kim — With a Double Espresso and a British Motorcycle …  |               |_      —-/   / /___   /  |       DoD#    /        –/—       / /—|       800880  /__/       /___/ _____/ /    |

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I’m looking for somewhere in Santa Cruz and surrounding areas to throw a dry-fly.  Does anyone know of some place like that …

You could throw a dry fly in the ocean but you’re not likely to catch anything.  The best place I can think of offhand would be Loch Lomand Reservoir in Felton. If you get there really early in the morning you might pick up a trout or two.  A few years ago I was catching tons on bluegill on wet flies casting from a canoe.  There’s some nice largemouths in the coves as well.  You’d have to wait till next season but you can pick up some steelhead in the San Lorenzo river and Scott creek, north of Davenport. I can’t really think of any good streams in the vicinity that would provide dry fly fishing.  No legal ones anyway. Your best bet is to head to the Sierra. Also, what about catfishing in the local sloughs?

I know a 19lb. catfish was caught out of Loch Lomand as well a couple of years ago.  I don’t know of any sloughs in the Santa Cruz area but the Delta is full of them. John – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Thanks Kim — With a Double Espresso and a British Motorcycle … |               |_      —-/   / /___   /  |       DoD#    /        –/—       / /—|     800880  /__/       /___/ _____/ /    |

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