Question:

Another Lousy Day in Paradise might be a good read for him.  Another other ideas brewing out there?

Since you live where you do, may I suggest that you bring him a couple of books by Tom McGuane. I think he is a local suthor for you. One of my favorites is Outside Chance, but I understand he has a new one out that is just as good if not better. Big Dale  

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Warren, Nice story, you can learn a lot from the old timers. One of the best friends I have in my chapter of TU is 84 years old. He drives 30 miles to meetings & has lots of history to share. He builds beautiful hand made nets for our banquet that helps us make some money for our conservation projects. He came to last fall’s fishing outing & I took him under my wing. We couldn’t get to the best spots because he needs a double knee replacement but we managed to find a spot were he slid down on his butt. On the way up I took his equiptment & then helped pull him up the bank. We didn’t catch any fish but had a great time anyway. Joan Stoliar one of the owners of the  company Folstaf wading staff is involved with Project Access which builds handicapped fishing access in the Catskills. One day every spring she enlists the aid of some TU chapters & a couple of other fishing clubs to help rebuild the ramps (they sometimes get washed out during the winter). We also plant willows to help shade some of the banks. Check this site for forther info: http://www.projectaccess.com/ We are all going to need help getting down to the river when we get older (not too far down the road for me) & I hope there will be some other fisherman willing to help maintain access. Sol

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<snipped Big Dale’s recommendation Thanks for the info.  I will look into getting a copy and reading it first to see if he will enjoy it Warren X#-[

Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

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Sol, You gave me an idea.  Perhaps I can buy him a year membership in FFF here in Livingston.  I have been meaning to join myself.  It would give him something to do if he isn't already a member.  I think I might offer to take him out fishing too.  We probably won't catch many fish, but I am sure that the trip will be fun anyways.  Thanks for the link, I will check it out this weekend when I have more time. Warren X#-[

Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

<snip I'm still trying to sort some things out in my head.  I don't know why this struck me as hard as it did, but I think I am going to make this a little routine.  Hopefully I will be able to give this guy something to look forward to and someone to talk to every now and then.  If that is all I can do, then I will do what I can.  Who knows, maybe it will be just the thing to keep this old guy going for a little longer or at least bring a little happiness to his life.  I only wish I could find another outlet like roff for him to participate in to help fill the vast void.

Warren, Nice gesture. I hope when your angling days are done you will find someone as thoughtful to help you through that final phase of your fishing life. Perhaps he may best be able to continue his fishing through you. What better gift could you possibly give him than the friendship of a fellow angler? Kiyu

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Listen to his stories.  Type them up.  Print 'em out.  Take some pictures of his favorite spots.  Ask to borrow some of his old photos and scan them.  Put together a little booklet of his stories along with scanned photos and have a print shop bind it up.  That'd make a nice gift. Mu

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- Hide quoted text -- Show quoted text - Warren Great post. Don't feel too sorry for the guy; just be aware that it comes to us all, if we are lucky. And for sure he is getting out there and enjoying the water and the sport in the only way still available to him. Buy the stuff if its a good deal and you can use it. Thats a way to show respect. The worst approach is to ignore him. Enuf seriousness. An alternative approach on handling this scenario it is to first scout out the situation. Then when he is crossing a field or some other exposed place, quarter in from behind. Drive your teeth into his Achilles tendon, throwing your weight to the right in a rolling motion. As he comes down, release your bight and spin out of the way, taking care to avoid his flailing kicks. Now back off and assess the situation to make sure he actually did fall to the right, in which case no repositioning is necessary ; quarter quickly in from infront and behind to the neck. Definitely reposition if he has fallen to the left. Take the best booty for yourself, its your right, but be sure to share with the rest of the group in order of their help on other hunts. Dave

Warren, Make a print out of David Snedeker's post (above) and show it to the old chap. If He has any SOH, he will probably pee his pants. It might be the best laugh he's had in ages! Tight Lines, Tony Deacon

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Warren, A few options come to mind. You could take him lake fishing; no steep banks or currents to contend with, and if you're in the right place at the right time, the fishing can be spectacular. If he's not interested in stillwaters, and you can afford the rod fees, take him to Armstrongs, or somewhere similar. Again, great fishing and much easier to navigate than the Yellowstone river. (BTW, I don't think TBone would be bugged a bit by your idea of bringing your friend a fresh-caught fish or two. In a similar situation, he'd probably do the same thing. It's a tradition as old as fishing itself.) -- Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyo Before you buy.

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<snip After three days of reading the replys, the original message finally shows up on my server.  Nice story Warren. -- Levi Trample the weak Hurdle the dead

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BTW, I don't think TBone would be bugged a bit by your idea of bringing your friend a fresh-caught fish or two.

I know.  I bet he will actually get a kick out of *me* keeping fish. Warren X#-[

Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

Today I was fishing some of the channels of the Yellowstone that I frequent.  I started fishing around 3 and stopped around 7.  When I got back to the truck and was taking off my waders an old timer pulled up and started to ask me how the fishing was.  We ended up talking for close to an hour. Seems this gentleman had fished these channels long before I was even born.  We both shared a love for these channels and think of them as favorite stretches. Needless to say,  we had a common bond despite the vast difference in years so a conversation was not difficult to keep going.   After talking to the guy for about 30 minutes I started to get kind of sad. Joe said (his name was Joe) that he had stopped fishing in the last couple of years because he was too old and couldn't get around good enough anymore.   He had to give up fly tying as well because he can't sit for long periods of time.  He still drives along the river and checks up on his favorite spots I guess just for something to do.   Or maybe it is just his way of still having some kind of contact with fly fishing.  Either way it was sad to see. It really got me to thinking  about what happens when one becomes too old to fish.  I am guessing that he is all alone because he said that he gave some of his rods to his nephews who don't fish so the rods are just sitting in a basement.  Gave me the impression that his wife and kids are deceased if he ever was even married and had kids.  This man was telling me stories about fishing this area back in the 50's and 60's and so it was quite interesting aside from the pitty factor I was feeling. We began talking about the cost of equipment and materials and how expensive things were now compared to before the increase in popularity of fly fishing. He said that he used to by custom made bamboo rods for $60 with $10 extra for modifications to the specs, ect.  Anyways, since he isn't tying anymore he said he would give me a bunch of his tying hooks and would part with some of his gear and tying materials for pretty cheap.  It wasn't that he was trying to sucker me into buying all of his stuff so he could have some pocket money, I think he just wanted to see it go to a nice home. He told me where to find him so next Friday I think I am going to pay him a visit after I get done fishing in the morning.  It was kind of funny, he said to just go to the apartment complex that he lives in and ask for "Joe the fisherman on the 3rd floor."   Since he has to buy his fish from the store now, I think I will take him a couple of fresh caught trout as a gift. I feel obliged to go and visit him, not so much to buy anything he has, but just so he can keep up on what things are like out on his old haunt.  He was really interested in what the channels are like now.  He can't go and see for himself  so he was asking me all kinds of questions.  I could tell that he loved fishing very much and loved this area just as much if not more.  At one point during the conversation I could swear that he started to get a tear in his eye. When I got home the whole event really started to sink in.  I started to think about what I am going to do when I reach the age that I can no longer participate in this "hobby" that we all love so much.  It really has me wondering what happens when you devote so much of your life to something and then get to a point that you are unable to do what you love to do  anymore.  I can only hope that I never have to face this dilema.  But if I do, I hope to that I will have someone to talk to and maybe bring me a fish once in awhile. I just wish there was something I could do like take him fishing even just once more. Warren X#-[

Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

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Today I was fishing some of the channels of the Yellowstone that I frequent.  I started fishing around 3 and stopped around 7.  When I got back to the truck and was taking off my waders an old timer pulled up and started to ask me how the fishing was.  We ended up talking for close to an hour.

        (snip)         nice sentiments, warren.         the answer to the question is photography. wayno

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Warren.. Thanks for that moving story you shared.  My father, who taught me to flyfish, is now paralyzed from the waist down.  He waits for me to report on the last trip, what flies I have last tied, and what the streams were like. The streams are firmly fixed in his mind.  He knows every spot of which I speak.  My mother also reports that when he sleeps she often sees his casting arm going back and forth, and sometimes his hand making the familiar circular motion of an experienced fly tier. I like to think he is on his favorite steam or at his bench.  I suspect he is. Maybe these are things we ought to remember when we are tempted to take verbal shots at each other.  It puts it all in perspective.  It matters not what rod or reel we use, or the degree of our skill.  Let us enjoy each other and the sport we love even though every last one of us is at times a bit odd.  Let us also hope that when each of us age, which God willing we will, and then our time to depart comes, that this God in his grace provides a place to toss a fly and fish our favorite haunt.

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[snip] When I got home the whole event really started to sink in.  I started to think about what I am going to do when I reach the age that I can no longer participate in this "hobby" that we all love so much.

[snip] You’ll do what this gentleman did. You’ll find a good home for it. Paul

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Hmm….not exactly the sort of post I look for in the morning with my coffee. I mean the comics are what I read first in the newspaper, ya know? But it is the sort of thing, that to be a part of, creates a memory….john

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Today I was fishing some of the channels of the Yellowstone that I frequent.  I started fishing around 3 and stopped around 7.  When I got back to the truck and was taking off my waders an old timer pulled up and started to ask me how the fishing was.  We ended up talking for close to an hour. Seems this gentleman had fished these channels long before I was even born. We both shared a love for these channels and think of them as favorite stretches. Needless to say,  we had a common bond despite the vast difference in years so a conversation was not difficult to keep going. After talking to the guy for about 30 minutes I started to get kind of sad. Joe said (his name was Joe) that he had stopped fishing in the last couple of years because he was too old and couldn’t get around good enough anymore. He had to give up fly tying as well because he can’t sit for long periods of time. He still drives along the river and checks up on his favorite spots I guess just for something to do.   Or maybe it is just his way of still having some kind of contact with fly fishing.  Either way it was sad to see. It really got me to thinking  about what happens when one becomes too old to fish.  I am guessing that he is all alone because he said that he gave some of his rods to his nephews who don’t fish so the rods are just sitting in a basement.  Gave me the impression that his wife and kids are deceased if he ever was even married and had kids.  This man was telling me stories about fishing this area back in the 50’s and 60’s and so it was quite interesting aside from the pitty factor I was feeling. We began talking about the cost of equipment and materials and how expensive things were now compared to before the increase in popularity of fly fishing. He said that he used to by custom made bamboo rods for $60 with $10 extra for modifications to the specs, ect.  Anyways, since he isn’t tying anymore he said he would give me a bunch of his tying hooks and would part with some of his gear and tying materials for pretty cheap.  It wasn’t that he was trying to sucker me into buying all of his stuff so he could have some pocket money, I think he just wanted to see it go to a nice home. He told me where to find him so next Friday I think I am going to pay him a visit after I get done fishing in the morning.  It was kind of funny, he said to just go to the apartment complex that he lives in and ask for "Joe the fisherman on the 3rd floor."   Since he has to buy his fish from the store now, I think I will take him a couple of fresh caught trout as a gift. I feel obliged to go and visit him, not so much to buy anything he has, but just so he can keep up on what things are like out on his old haunt.  He was really interested in what the channels are like now.  He can’t go and see for himself  so he was asking me all kinds of questions.  I could tell that he loved fishing very much and loved this area just as much if not more.  At one point during the conversation I could swear that he started to get a tear in his eye. When I got home the whole event really started to sink in.  I started to think about what I am going to do when I reach the age that I can no longer participate in this "hobby" that we all love so much.  It really has me wondering what happens when you devote so much of your life to something and then get to a point that you are unable to do what you love to do  anymore. I can only hope that I never have to face this dilema.  But if I do, I hope to that I will have someone to talk to and maybe bring me a fish once in awhile. I just wish there was something I could do like take him fishing even just once more. Warren X#-[ Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

Why not spend time brinigng him along on trips while introducing some new people to th s port.

I was thinking of that and the float idea as MC suggested, but there are two problems.  The first is that he said he can’t even walk down a bank because he can’t get back up since his legs are so weak now.  Second, he can’t sit for long periods of time.  I suggested that he try some bait fishing, but I think he almost took it as an insult, although he was kind and pretended he didn’t hear.  He is pretty old and I doubt he can wade anymore even with help and the area is very rocky and slippery.  I don’t think I would like to take on the liability of taking him out like that. I guess the best I can do for now is bring him a fish every now and then (Oh god, wait until TBone hears this :-}), buy some of his gear, and tell him what things were like.  In the future, maybe a float trip when I get a boat built. Something short with lots of stops would probably be ok. I’m still trying to sort some things out in my head.  I don’t know why this struck me as hard as it did, but I think I am going to make this a little routine.  Hopefully I will be able to give this guy something to look forward to and someone to talk to every now and then.  If that is all I can do, then I will do what I can.  Who knows, maybe it will be just the thing to keep this old guy going for a little longer or at least bring a little happiness to his life.  I only wish I could find another outlet like roff for him to participate in to help fill the vast void. Maybe I can take him some books to read.  Trout Bum and Another Lousy Day in Paradise might be a good read for him.  Another other ideas brewing out there? Other than quartering him and taking all the loot that is (Thanks Dave S, I’ll let you know how it goes). Warren X#-[

Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

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Buy his gear if you like it and can afford it, and take him fishing if you can.  The best bet is a boat trip. He will probably be pleased to see his gear go to somebody who will use and look after it. TL MC — "In order to achieve what is possible, one must constantly attempt the impossible" http://www.mikeconnor.de

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Why not spend time brinigng him along on trips while introducing some new people to th s port. You will accomplish 3 things, make the gentleman happy, propogate the love of the sport in others, and really get some pleasure for yourself by doing it. Regards from Montreal John Brkich

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Warren Great post. Don’t feel too sorry for the guy; just be aware that it comes to us all, if we are lucky. And for sure he is getting out there and enjoying the water and the sport in the only way still available to him. Buy the stuff if its a good deal and you can use it. Thats a way to show respect. The worst approach is to ignore him. Enuf seriousness. An alternative approach on handling this scenario it is to first scout out the situation. Then when he is crossing a field or some other exposed place, quarter in from behind. Drive your teeth into his Achilles tendon, throwing your weight to the right in a rolling motion. As he comes down, release your bight and spin out of the way, taking care to avoid his flailing kicks. Now back off and assess the situation to make sure he actually did fall to the right, in which case no repositioning is necessary ; quarter quickly in from infront and behind to the neck. Definitely reposition if he has fallen to the left. Take the best booty for yourself, its your right, but be sure to share with the rest of the group in order of their help on other hunts. Dave

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Question:

Phew. All kinds of generalities there, probably none of it of much help. But at least I didn’t skewer you ;^)

Actually, since he didn’t specify the conditions he would be fishing or his casting style, you sort of did by making him read yet another post about preferences<g. — Charlie…

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I just read through this thread hoping to pick up some reasoning for what would be the virtue of a slower action rod and I have to tell you I found almost zero usefull information.  Would you guys consider starting a new group alt.love_lost.2.old.rod?

Uh uh uh. Don’t taunt the bears! Wouldn’t be prudent. Or better yet, tell me why (and where) a slow rod beats a fast rod.

I believe that’s mostly a matter of casting style and/or experience. For many folks, especially less experienced ones, slower rods telegraph their loaded point louder than fast rods do, so a slower rod can be easier to cast – or learn to cast. The faster the rod the less obvious that same loaded-point becomes. One could make a case, I suppose, that a slower rod is easier to use in tight quarters (small streams, etc) regardless of casting style or expertise. I don’t have any wicked-fast small stream rods, they’re all moderate action or even a bit slow. I do have some real telephone poles for stripers and bluefish, however (eg: 9wt IMX, 7wt RPLX) as well as a couple of moderate-action rods (eg: 9wt IM6, 7wt IM6) and for fighting wind over the ocean I like casting the faster rods – which throw a tighter loop (very useful when casting side-arm to get down under the worst of the wind). I still have a couple of glass rods but really hated fishing saltwater with them. Too damned slow, not as much backbone, and casting a wide loop side-arm can be really risky business ;^) Phew. All kinds of generalities there, probably none of it of much help. But at least I didn’t skewer you ;^) /daytripper

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Aw c’mon Ken, the quality of free advice just wasn’t up to his standards.

I just don’t like whiners. I mean, I read his post hoping to find a really good borscht recipe. That damn post mentioned nothing whatsoever about borscht, but you don’t hear me whining about it. — Ken Fortenberry

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I feel the LL is one of Sage’s best creation.  It is one of the nicest rods to cast a line with.  I have a 389-3LL and use a Stillwater taper for most of my lake fishing.  I’ve even gone as far as using a type 2 uniform sink from SA.  It actually casted fine.   My buddy has a 489 and uses all different sink rates of lake lines on it.  You will need to make subtle changes to your casting stroke in order to make up for the slower action.  What rod do you have? Thanks, — Forrest http://www.FlyFishingREVIEW.com FlyFishingREVIEW.com win any SAGE rod! Before you buy.

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I’ll register in on the love side.   I’ve always preferred the softer action of the LL series, and the 490 LL is my absolute favorite rod ever. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any fans of the Sage Light Line Series out there?   Or for that matter, anybody hate the series? Personally I love it’s medium action and can’t believe they are discontinuing them (at least that’s what I heard).  Has anyone tried casting this rod with a sink tip or a wet line?  If so I’d particularly like to hear from you. Thinking of getting new lines for this rod but want to hear some comments/suggestions from others that have tried different line combos on this rod before rushing out to waste money.  Reason why I’m hesitating is because its light weight plus medium action might make this rod a nightmare to cast with sink tips or wet lines. Thanks!

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I also fall on the love side of the spectrum.  I think the LL and the RPL were the best rods Sage has made.   I currently own a SP+ which I use on the big open lakes and rivers out here in WA but I just bought a 2 pc. 3wt LL blank off of ebay for fishing the creeks and smaller waters.  I can’t wait to get it built.   Hopefully Sage will relearn the lesson that power isn’t everything and return to making these fine rods. Mike

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I currently own a SP+ which I use on the big open lakes and rivers out here in WA but I just bought a 2 pc. 3wt LL blank off of ebay for fishing the creeks and smaller waters.  I can’t wait to get it built.

I saw that blank and damned near went after it myself to build my wife a rod; but I just have too many rod projects in the works for the present. (Fixing my son’s epoxy & repairing my broken 9 wt.)   I’m glad I didn’t drive the price up for you.  :-) Joe F.

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I own a 9 foot 4 weight LL and love the thing. I am sick of fast action rods that stop a trout in its tracks. I also have an RPL+ 10 foot 7 weight and this is really a salmon rod. I caight a 14lb 2oz rainbow on it the other day and after a couple of minutes, the fish put its fins in the air and came quietly. Shame. I broke my big Sage in May, which is why August saw me fishing the Teifi at night for sea trout with my LL. I hooked, played and netted a fish of 5.5 lb and the fight was tremendous. So glad it wasn’t my RPL+. I have just bought a 3 piece 9 foot 6 weight SP and am dying to get out there with the thing. Softer action too, although not like the LL. The LL range is being continued, I understand, although only in a 3-piece and at a higher price. Bugger (woolly and otherwise)! Caspar – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yep, I own 3 of the LL series…….2/4/6 wts.  Love ‘em.  I would class their action more as slow to medium, than strictly medium.  My casting style (if one could call it a ’style’, more like a grenade toss) is more suited to the slower action.  And no, I don’t use sinking lines on any of them because they are just not suited for throwing weight.  Having said that, I sometimes use a short piece of sinking leader to get the fly down if fishing in current or deeper water, but it is not a comfortable thing for me to do. If I’m tossing weighted buggers or need to use a sink tip, I switch to my St Croix medium action rods.  BTW, as to lines, I use SA Mastery or AirCell Supreme WF stuff.  FWIW- Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED Any fans of the Sage Light Line Series out there?   Or for that matter, anybody hate the series? Personally I love it’s medium action and can’t believe they are discontinuing them (at least that’s what I heard).  Has anyone tried casting this rod with a sink tip or a wet line?  If so I’d particularly like to hear from you. Thinking of getting new lines for this rod but want to hear some comments/suggestions from others that have tried different line combos on this rod before rushing out to waste money.  Reason why I’m hesitating is because its light weight plus medium action might make this rod a nightmare to cast with sink tips or wet lines. Thanks! Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

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I have cast a LL and am seriously thinking of getting a 489.  How do you think they compare with an SP or SPl?  Any comments would be greatly appreciated. Chris Brown

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Any fans of the Sage Light Line Series out there?  

I have a 490-4 LL that I’m quite fond of. I’ve tried several DT & WF floating lines on it, but no sinking lines. What works best for me is a Wulff TT 3/4. — Ken Fortenberry

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I own a 9 foot 4 weight LL and love the thing. I am sick of fast action rods that stop a trout in its tracks. I also have an RPL+ 10 foot 7 weight and this is really a salmon rod. I caight a 14lb 2oz rainbow on it the other day and after a couple of minutes, the fish put its fins in the air and came quietly. Shame.

[snip] Some people would say that was a good thing.

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Chris, I like the SP action and use it for the most part.  I have a couple SP+’s and in the wind and for long casting, prefer them.  I fished a SPL last spring for a week and found it just too much like a noodle.  Too slow for me. Regards, Mike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have cast a LL and am seriously thinking of getting a 489.  How do you think they compare with an SP or SPl?  Any comments would be greatly appreciated. Chris Brown

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I’ve had three LLs, one SP, one RPL and two RPs.  The LLs were always my favourites and my current 590 LL (an older graphite II model) will cast a type V sinktip with no problem.  Just have to open up the loop a bit, that’s all.  I do a lot of streamer fishing so all of my trout rods have to be able to throw sinktips as well as floating lines. Slow action doesn’t necessarily mean less power. Cheers Visit The Streamer Page at http://members.home.net/pcharles/streamers/index.html

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The Sage 389LL was one of the finest small-stream dry fly rods ever created.  It was originally produced in graphite II, and is one of the few blanks that survived a transition to graphite III without problems or substantial reworking.   Interestingly enough, it won a FR&R Kudo as a 2 weight – the slower action allowed it to load effectively with a 2 or a 3.  I fished mine (lost in the fire, alas) with a Triangle Taper 2/3, and it was superb.   I sorely miss it.  Since the fire, I bought one of the new SPL rods to replace it, but it just isn’t quite the same…….                                         Michael – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I currently own a SP+ which I use on the big open lakes and rivers out here in WA but I just bought a 2 pc. 3wt LL blank off of ebay for fishing the creeks and smaller waters.  I can’t wait to get it built. I saw that blank and damned near went after it myself to build my wife a rod; but I just have too many rod projects in the works for the present. (Fixing my son’s epoxy & repairing my broken 9 wt.)   I’m glad I didn’t drive the price up for you.  :-) Joe F.

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I picked up a 490-4 LL blank on ebay recently (a major relief for me – I thought I’d lost that rod forever).  It was being sold by Drake Rod Co. – the lady told me that she had a couple of them in stock, and I believe that she also had a 490-3 LLB as well.  If anyone’s interested in contacting them drop me an email and I’ll see if I can scare up the contact info.                                 Michael Roegner – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any fans of the Sage Light Line Series out there?   I have a 490-4 LL that I’m quite fond of. I’ve tried several DT & WF floating lines on it, but no sinking lines. What works best for me is a Wulff TT 3/4.

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I got a 356 LL 2 years ago ( Yep, 5′-6") and absolutely love it for the small creeks I fish. I can cast under the canopy, cart it around in the bushes without getting hung up, and it casts up to 50′ with no problems, though it’s rare I see that much open space where I use it. I understand it was discontinued last year.         Steve

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I have the 490 3LL and I absolutely adore it.  I plan to get some new lines for it soon but wasn’t sure how well it would cast heavier lines like sink tips and wet lines. After hearing from a few people that’s actually tried sink tips and full sinks, I think I will give it a try.   Afterall, I like the rod so much I want to use it for most, if not all, of my outtings, both stream and lake. Thanks for the info. Ken. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I feel the LL is one of Sage’s best creation.  It is one of the nicest rods to cast a line with.  I have a 389-3LL and use a Stillwater taper for most of my lake fishing.  I’ve even gone as far as using a type 2 uniform sink from SA.  It actually casted fine.   My buddy has a 489 and uses all different sink rates of lake lines on it.  You will need to make subtle changes to your casting stroke in order to make up for the slower action.  What rod do you have? Thanks, — Forrest http://www.FlyFishingREVIEW.com FlyFishingREVIEW.com win any SAGE rod! Before you buy.

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(Flyfis4fun) writes: I also fall on the love side of the spectrum.  I think the LL and the RPL were the best rods Sage has made.   Hopefully Sage will relearn the lesson that power isn’t everything and return to making these fine rods. Moral of the story, if you find a rod you love, buy at least three of them cause sooner or later they ain’t gonna make em no more.

Oh Mister Gear Whore, you’re my HERO!

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(Flyfis4fun) writes: I also fall on the love side of the spectrum.  I think the LL and the RPL were the best rods Sage has made.  

{snip} Hopefully Sage will relearn the lesson that power isn’t everything and return to making these fine rods.

Moral of the story, if you find a rod you love, buy at least three of them cause sooner or later they ain’t gonna make em no more. Wayne Knight (remove nospam to respond via mail) Expert in the creation of  wind knots and tailing loops.

Response:

I just read through this thread hoping to pick up some reasoning for what would be the virtue of a slower action rod and I have to tell you I found almost zero usefull information.  Would you guys consider starting a new group alt.love_lost.2.old.rod?  Or better yet, tell me why (and where) a slow rod beats a fast rod. Mike

Response:

I just read through this thread hoping to pick up some reasoning for what would be the virtue of a slower action rod and I have to tell you I found almost zero usefull information.  Would you guys consider starting a new group alt.love_lost.2.old.rod?  Or better yet, tell me why (and where) a slow rod beats a fast rod. Mike

How in the hell can you read a newsgroup with your head stuck up your ass like that ? — Ken Fortenberry

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I just read through this thread hoping to pick up some reasoning for what would be the virtue of a slower action rod and I have to tell you I found almost zero usefull information.  Would you guys consider starting a new group alt.love_lost.2.old.rod?  Or better yet, tell me why (and where) a slow rod beats a fast rod. Mike How in the hell can you read a newsgroup with your head stuck up your ass like that ?

Aw c’mon Ken, the quality of free advice just wasn’t up to his standards. What do you expect him to do, an internet search for articles or something? I mean, after all his vast contributions it seems he deserves better than this<g. — Charlie…

Response:

I just read through this thread hoping to pick up some reasoning for what would be the virtue of a slower action rod and I have to tell you I found almost zero usefull information.  Would you guys consider starting a new group alt.love_lost.2.old.rod?  Or better yet, tell me why (and where) a slow rod beats a fast rod. Mike

Let me take a minute here to wipe the sarcasm off your post, then I’ll try and answer your question.  First off, It isn’t a case of slow vs. fast, rather that each has it’s own characteristics that you can exploit in different situations. The biggest determinant is personal preference; some people love ‘em others don’t.  For the rest of the list of characteristics, these are generalizations and there are plenty of exceptions.  For sake of argument, assume that I’m comparing a slow Orvis Superfine 5 wt, to a fast Sage RPL+ 5 wt. Slow rods (Orvis Superfine) Loads easily with only a little line Short cast, mend and roll cast well Tend to be tolerant of under and over-lining Less fatiguing over a long day of fishing More delicate presentation Fast rods (Sage RPL+) Handles the wind better Stiff butt section gives better lifting power Easier to cast long Tighter loop control Pinpoint accuracy is easier But having said all of that, a good caster can be pinpoint accurate and handle the wind with a Superfine, or lay down a delicate cast with an RPL+ so we end up back with personal preference.   But there’s another determinant that you should keep in mind.  Some rods have a progressive action while others have more radical action. By this I mean that a progressive rod will simply work further down into the butt, the longer you cast and the more power you apply.  The relationship between power and distance on the one hand and how far the rod works into the butt on the other, is more or less linear. Casting a progressive rod doesn’t really take a change of casting stroke to cast long; merely lengthen the stroke a bit and apply a little more power.  Radical actions change between tip and butt so you may have a soft tip married to a stiff butt that requires a change in your casting stroke when casting long.  Radical actions try to combine the merits of slow and fast action rods in one but you have to pay a price by altering your casting stroke to accomondate the transition between slow tip and fast butt as the casting distance lengthens. Here’s a comparison – if you took an old Sage RPL 8 wt. and a Loomis GL3 Megataper 8/9 wt., and deflection tested them with identical weights, you may find that both delfected about the same amount so they would both be considered fast.  But the Sage would be bending well into the butt while the Loomis would accomodate most of the bending in the tip. So when casting, you’d find the Loomis will short cast easier but the Sage would be easier to cast over the full limits of its range.  The Loomis action was intended for flats fishing where you’d pick up a short bit of line with the tip, load quickly then bang out 60′-70′ with the butt, all in one casting motion.  The RPL would probably need one false cast to do the same. Next time don’t be so sarcastic and I won’t make you read as much.  :) Cheers Visit The Streamer Page at http://members.home.net/pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Yep, I own 3 of the LL series…….2/4/6 wts.  Love ‘em.  I would class their action more as slow to medium, than strictly medium.  My casting style (if one could call it a ’style’, more like a grenade toss) is more suited to the slower action.  And no, I don’t use sinking lines on any of them because they are just not suited for throwing weight.  Having said that, I sometimes use a short piece of sinking leader to get the fly down if fishing in current or deeper water, but it is not a comfortable thing for me to do.  If I’m tossing weighted buggers or need to use a sink tip, I switch to my St Croix medium action rods.  BTW, as to lines, I use SA Mastery or AirCell Supreme WF stuff.  FWIW- Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any fans of the Sage Light Line Series out there?   Or for that matter, anybody hate the series? Personally I love it’s medium action and can’t believe they are discontinuing them (at least that’s what I heard).  Has anyone tried casting this rod with a sink tip or a wet line?  If so I’d particularly like to hear from you. Thinking of getting new lines for this rod but want to hear some comments/suggestions from others that have tried different line combos on this rod before rushing out to waste money.  Reason why I’m hesitating is because its light weight plus medium action might make this rod a nightmare to cast with sink tips or wet lines. Thanks!

Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

Response:

Any fans of the Sage Light Line Series out there?   Or for that matter, anybody hate the series? Personally I love it’s medium action and can’t believe they are discontinuing them (at least that’s what I heard).  Has anyone tried casting this rod with a sink tip or a wet line?  If so I’d particularly like to hear from you. Thinking of getting new lines for this rod but want to hear some comments/suggestions from others that have tried different line combos on this rod before rushing out to waste money.  Reason why I’m hesitating is because its light weight plus medium action might make this rod a nightmare to cast with sink tips or wet lines. Thanks!

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Question:

Anyone using a fly line with sinking tip for nymphs or streamer fishing? If so, do you use weighted nymph? How long for the leader/tippet? In what circumstances should such lines be used? I have tested scientific angler class 3 and class 5 in a park near my home. Class 3 was hard to cast. Class 5 was very hard to cast. Comments and recommendation anyone?

I agree with the gentleman previous toi this thread. When you cast heavy line of any kind (above 7) the idea is to false cast NEVER, well maybe once if you have to. On the Roannoke in NC casting for those monster sex crazed stripers, I cast a seven wt with a fast sinker to get it down in the seams that would whip a weighted fly all over. The technique is to find  a pocket cast to the side, draw the line to the suface with a slow backcast, then just before the fly reaches the suface, load the rod by the surface tension of the water. even with this powerful back cast-not by the speed of it, but by loading the rod, you get the line in the air. Make your foreward cast count-and place your fly. If you back cast here, your line will drop,it s just too heavy. If you muff the cast, Start from the begining or suffer frustration. Good luck and tight lines! Thanks to Lefty for this tip, he deserves the credit. Steve

Response:

Leader length of 3 or 4 feet work well for me. Weight the nymph as you see appropriate. Most cases an unweighted nymph is best. Some flies seem to benefit from weight of some sort. Casting sink tips requires a more carefull, slower stroke, don’t hold too much line in the air and keep false casting to a minimum. Ralph H – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone using a fly line with sinking tip for nymphs or streamer fishing? If so, do you use weighted nymph? How long for the leader/tippet? In what circumstances should such lines be used? I have tested scientific angler class 3 and class 5 in a park near my home. Class 3 was hard to cast. Class 5 was very hard to cast. Comments and recommendation anyone?

Response:

Jean, Try the AirFlo Fast Sink or Intermediate Sink leaders.  They cast extremely well and the Fast Sink really takes the fly down.  I have been using one this week to cast small Clousers to shad in the Rappahannock and it is working beautifully.  I use a heavier, stiffer (regular monofilament) tippet and keep it to under 3 feet.  The AirFlo leader comes in a 10 foot length for Fast Sink.  If they have the 5 foot model out now it might be a good bet depending on where and what you are fishing.  Another handy thing is they handshake to a line loop and a surgeon’s knot on one end of the tippet. Makes swapping between floating and sinking a matter of seconds and changing tippets the same. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone using a fly line with sinking tip for nymphs or streamer fishing? If so, do you use weighted nymph? How long for the leader/tippet? In what circumstances should such lines be used? I have tested scientific angler class 3 and class 5 in a park near my home. Class 3 was hard to cast. Class 5 was very hard to cast. Comments and recommendation anyone?

Response:

Anyone using a fly line with sinking tip for nymphs or streamer fishing? If so, do you use weighted nymph? How long for the leader/tippet? In what circumstances should such lines be used? I have tested scientific angler class 3 and class 5 in a park near my home. Class 3 was hard to cast. Class 5 was very hard to cast. Comments and recommendation anyone?

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Question:

Yeah Richard.  Would love to lend any help I can.  I know that last year you guys launched from Hickory Creek (Springdale) and that Gerald caught most of his winning day bass down river.  I know he got a few off the hwy 12 bridge each day but I am afraid the lake is much different from when you guys saw it last year.  We desperately need rain to get the lake level back up.  We had a good rain last weekend and more is forecasted this weekend.  So hopefully by april when you guys get up here it will be up somewhat.  I will keep you posted around that time.   I generally launch from Hickory Creek and am more familiar down stream than up.  I generally fish everything below Horseshoe Bend but I will be exploring more this year. be nice to have someone to cheer for during the tournament.  I will help you with directions maps and anything else I can. BAZZMAN

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<snip   I generally launch from Hickory Creek and am more familiar down stream than up.  I generally fish everything below Horseshoe Bend but I will be exploring more this year.

Hey BAZZMAN: Stop and give me a howdy the next time you’re fishing down towards Eden Bluff on Beaver (just south of Monte Ne, near Three Fingers Cove…I’m the guy fly fishing for bass and stripers from my skiff…you’ve probably seen me a million times.  My dock is right before the entrance to Three Fingers. I enjoy reading your posts….you could probably teach me a thing or two about spawning bass this Spring…..see ya’ Greg Hardig

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Speaking of excellent winter day on the lake.  I was fishing Beaver Lake in Springdale Arkanasas on Wednesday.  Monday it was a record high 75 and Tuesday was also high at 72 degrees.  I went out Wednesday and chose to stay in the lower White River end of the lake.  I was flipping and pitching black jig and pigs in the nastiest pockets I could find.  It seemed like the more crap that had washed in there from the terential rains on Saturday the better.  I caught bass to 4 pounds and ended up catching 10 in the 4 hours I was on the water.  I cant believe I had such an awesome day in early February.  Fishing usually sucks until March on Beaver. BAZZMAN…

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Speaking of excellent winter day on the lake.  I was fishing Beaver Lake in Springdale Arkanasas on Wednesday.  Monday it was a record high 75 and Tuesday was also high at 72 degrees.  I went out Wednesday and chose to stay in the lower White River end of the lake.  I was flipping and pitching black jig and pigs in the nastiest pockets I could find.  It seemed like the more crap that had washed in there from the terential rains on Saturday the better.  I caught bass to 4 pounds and ended up catching 10 in the 4 hours I was on the water.  I cant believe I had such an awesome day in early February.  Fishing usually sucks until March on Beaver.

Glad to hear you had a great time on Beaver. I am not familiar with springdale but if you are talking the same lake I fished last April it was up in the N.W. corner of the state. If we are talking of the same lake keep an eye on her as I have an FLW on her in April. Would appreciate any help. Good fishing, Richard L. LaFay | (248) 753-6940 (work) 2887 Pontiac Court  | (248) 373-6865 (home) Auburn Hills, Michigan   48326 Ranger Boats, Lowrance Electronics, Berkley Trilene, Rippler, and Bill Norman Lures. I use them because I think they’re the best!

Response:

The unusally warm weather has been great for fishing in Alabama too.  I caught 17 bass in about 5 hours on Lake Guntersville last Wednesday.  Although there was a 13′4” weighted in the previous Saturday at the Waterfront Grocery where I put in,  most of the fish I caught were between 12 and 14 inches (non-keepers on Guntersville).  But I catch and release anyway and a bass is a bass.  Water temp was in the mid to upper 50’s.  It’s typical for the largest bass of the season to be caught in February on Guntersville. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Speaking of excellent winter day on the lake.  I was fishing Beaver Lake in Springdale Arkanasas on Wednesday.  Monday it was a record high 75 and Tuesday was also high at 72 degrees.  I went out Wednesday and chose to stay in the lower White River end of the lake.  I was flipping and pitching black jig and pigs in the nastiest pockets I could find.  It seemed like the more crap that had washed in there from the terential rains on Saturday the better.  I caught bass to 4 pounds and ended up catching 10 in the 4 hours I was on the water.  I cant believe I had such an awesome day in early February.  Fishing usually sucks until March on Beaver. Glad to hear you had a great time on Beaver. I am not familiar with springdale but if you are talking the same lake I fished last April it was up in the N.W. corner of the state. If we are talking of the same lake keep an eye on her as I have an FLW on her in April. Would appreciate any help. Good fishing, Richard L. LaFay | (248) 753-6940 (work) 2887 Pontiac Court  | (248) 373-6865 (home) Auburn Hills, Michigan   48326 Ranger Boats, Lowrance Electronics, Berkley Trilene, Rippler, and Bill Norman Lures. I use them because I think they’re the best!

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Question:

Need advice on where to look for  an inexpensive (<$100) 4 peice pack rod (preferably 9′ 6 wt)–used or new.  If anyone knows of a good

Look for glass rods with the Abu or Fenwick name — probably no longer sold new, but the old ones must be somewhere…. — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

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Need advice on where to look for  an inexpensive (<$100) 4 peice pack rod (preferably 9′ 6 wt)–used or new.  If anyone knows of a good starting point would appreciate a tip!

Response:

Need advice on where to look for  an inexpensive (<$100) 4 peice pack rod (preferably 9′ 6 wt)–used or new.  If anyone knows of a good starting point would appreciate a tip!

For the same money, you might be able to get a better quality rod by going to a two piece rod.  Put it in a schedule 40 PVC tube and use it for a walking stick.  It helps me a lot crossing streams and going up/ down steep inclines.  The thin wall PVC won’t hold up as well if you really put your weight on it (like when you need it most).   Rob

Response:

: For the same money, you might be able to get a better quality rod by : going to a two piece rod.  Put it in a schedule 40 PVC tube and use it : for a walking stick.  It helps me a lot crossing streams and going up/ : down steep inclines.  The thin wall PVC won’t hold up as well if you : really put your weight on it (like when you need it most).   Rob, I also use two-piece rods hiking and backpacking.  I carry them in a sturdy PVC tube and use the tube as a walking stick.  If I ever fell right on top of it. . . well I think I would rather have the rod break than me (but I am not too sure). Schedule 40 PVC?  Hmmm.  I guess I will know what to ask for next time I acquire a PVC rod tube.  Thanks for the terminology. Cheers, Burnaby, BC

Response:

Check and see if you can find a st. Croix dealer in canada. I bought two 4 pc.    pack

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Hi, If you are into building your own rod the River’s Edge in Bozeman, MT has Sage second blank (4 peice pack rods) for about $130.00.  If you think you might be interested you can call them at 406-586-5373. Good Luck Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (catalog avail)

Response:

Al, Thanks for the post.  I saw your message of Jan 4 regarding the River’s Edge and the sage seconds.  We live in Chicago and have a tough time finding a source for seconds, especially travel rods at this price! Bryan and company at rivers edge were quite helpful.  I just purchased two of the blanks and there in the mail now.

Response:

St. Croix is available in Canada at a decent price.  Diawa makes a 4 – 5 wt. that fishs very well.  Pack rods at low prices can be hard to find.  Good luck. Peter – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Check and see if you can find a st. Croix dealer in canada. I bought two 4 pc.    pack

Response:

Check the Cabela’s 1996 Spring catalog.  They’re listing a 4pc. pack rod blank (9′/6wt I think) for less than $50.  They list it as an import, but who knows.

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I looking for an moderately priced pack rod, and have found a Cabela’s Fish Eagle 8′ 4wt. for #116.  Anybody out there have any opinions about the rod?

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I really like the St. Croix Imperial, 8′ for 4/5 in a 4 piece … rod holder included for around $125. Also it has a lifetime guarantee … I like the intermediate action so much that I am fishing it almost as my #1 rod. bob vorel

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Question:

Hi, I just wanted to relate a good experience I’ve recently had with Orvis. I bought my first Orvis rod back in 1982 and built about a dozen rods from Orvis blanks for myself and others during the 80’s and early 90’s. Back in the early 80’s, when graphite was just beginning to emerge as the dominant rod blank material, Orvis basically had a stronghold on the market and concepts like lifetime guarantees on flyrods were pretty much unheard of. But today, there is fierce competition for the flyfishing tackle dollar and most vendors offer lifetime guarantees on both pre-built rods *and* blanks. Since Orvis does not offer guarantees on blanks, however, most of the rods I’ve built lately have been from other vendors’ components. So, when my Orvis PM-10 8wt rod snapped during a cast a couple of months ago, I basically said to myself: "Well, it looks like I’m going have to buy a new 8wt blank – and it’s *not* going to be an Orvis!" Instead of just giving up, however, I had the San Francisco Orvis shop send the rod back to the factory in Manchester, VT for "evaluation" (which I assumed meant they would soon be sending me a bill for repairs) and in the meantime I started making plans to buy a GLoomis IMX blank at a good sale price to replace it. But, to my suprise, the people in Manchester came through and replaced the blank free of charge after evaluating the blank as being defective – which seemed only reasonable, since the rod had snapped in a segment which was not related to any of my rodbuilding work. So, just when I had all but written Orvis off as being out of step with companies like GLoomis, Redington, Sage, etc. they came through for me in a big way even though there was no formal guarantee requiring them to do so. Anyway, I don’t intend this as an unfettered endorsement of Orvis over other vendors (I’ll certainly continue to buy my blanks from a wide cross section of vendors). But, I just felt I should give a little credit where credit was due. Regards, Fred

Response:

 IMX blank at a good sale price to replace it. But, to my suprise, the people in Manchester came through and replaced the blank free of charge after evaluating the blank as being defective – which seemed only reasonable, since the rod had snapped in a segment which was not related to any of my rodbuilding work. So, just when I had all but written Orvis off as being out of step with companies like GLoomis, Redington, Sage, etc. they came through for me in a big way even though there was no formal guarantee requiring them to do so.

Hi Fred, I know some of the people on this group are not happy with Orvis but I’ve always found them to be a good company to do business with.  Maybe in the future I’ll change my mind but nothing has happened yet to encourage that. – Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (97 catalog) http://www.flyshop.com/Expo/Specialty/BTsPdcts/index.html

Response:

I ordered a pair of hippers from Orvis.  I was not happy with the fabric (I wanted canvas not nylon/rubber).   I returned them immediately to Orvis for a full refund.   A month later I received a notice of recall for the hippers.  There was a defect in the waders which caused them to rub on your leg.  Included in the letter was a prepaid mailing label.  I had already mailed mine back so the label did not help me. BUT, the letter also mentioned that a $125.00 gift certificate (for my time and effort) would be issued as soon as the waders were returned.  I immediatly called Orvis with my explaination and I received the gift certificate a few days later. Now thats CUSTOMER SERVICE. David Clemmons

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I ordered a pair of hippers from Orvis.  I was not happy with the fabric (I wanted canvas not nylon/rubber).   I returned them immediately to Orvis for a full refund. A month later I received a notice of recall for the hippers.  There was a defect in the waders which caused them to rub on your leg.  Included in the letter was a prepaid mailing label.  I had already mailed mine back so the label did not help me. BUT, the letter also mentioned that a $125.00 gift certificate (for my time and effort) would be issued as soon as the waders were returned.  I immediatly called Orvis with my explaination and I received the gift certificate a few days later. Now thats CUSTOMER SERVICE. David Clemmons

I’ve also had great luck with them regarding returns. I’m sure this note will be followed by endless sob stories, but last year I had a long thorn streamside tear my waders. I took them back, and although they were more than 12 months old, they were replaced at no cost to me. Dittos! Keith in Waterford, VA

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I also recently had an incredibly great experience with Orvis Customer Service.  While in Yellowstone in mid-September, one of my fishing partners broke the butt section of my little HLS 4 wt One-Ouncer.  I knew I had a 25-year guarantee, but I wondered what Orvis would do since they no longer make that rod.  I’ve tried their other one ounce rods and I don’t like them nearly as much as that old model. I returned the rod to the shop in Montana where I purchased it.  Since I carry my rods in a travel case while on the road, I didn’t have the case or sleeve. Low-and behold, 8 days after I dropped the rod off with the dealer, I got a big FedEx overnight package from Orvis.  It was a brand-new One Ouncer, complete with new case, and sleeve.  I was hoping I’d get a new butt section, but to get a whole new setup, and in such a short period of time was very impressive.  Needless to say, I’m extremely happy with their customer service. Bruce Jones

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Question:

are there any schools that teach fishing with conventional tackle instead of pure flyrod?

Response:

are there any schools that teach fishing with conventional tackle instead of pure flyrod?

I don’t know of any. I think that is why the fly fishing industry is doing so well.  There are lots of videos, books and schools on the sport of fly fishing. Most of the conventional tackle is sold by self service mass merchandizers like Walmart and Kmart. It is hard to get any service, help or fishing info from those stores. I have watched the tackle business change for the last 31 years that I have been involved in it. William Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA

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Question:

[snip] Before I go any further, let me state that I’m cheap, and really don’t want to spend more than $150 for a rod.  That being the case I have narrowed down my choices to two rods by Cortland; a 7′ 3/4 weight, or a 7.5′ 4/5 weight.  Now I already have a reel loaded up with 4 weight line. My question is for my type of fishing which rod would work best? Will the 7′ 3/4weight  rod get overloaded with a 4 weight line on long casts (not that these streams have very many places to make long casts)?  Will the 7.5′ 4/5weight rod be too stiff to load up properly with 4weight line on short casts (most of the casting type I do) and hence lose control and finesse? Any thoughts and/or suggestions?

The two line weight ratings usually refer to a double-taper line (the lower weight) and a weight-forward line (the higher weight). Eg: a 7′ 3/4 should load correctly with either a DT3 or a WF4… If the line you already own is a WF4, you’re probably all set for now –   although when you eventually replace that line, I’d go with a DT3: working a small stream with a 7′ rod (I have a Winston 7′6"/2wt for this) I favor a DT line for at least two reasons: roll casting a DT is a heck of a lot more effective than trying to do the same with a WF line; and a DT line lends itself to finesse than a WF (the latter tends to land with a splash). Regards, /dave <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< < Digital Equipment Corp.    Alpha Server Engineering  < <           "Read this and nobody gets hurt"           < <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a question regarding rods that have ratings for 2 fly line weights.  First let me explain my situation.  I mostly fish small streams, where the trout rarely exceed 12" and the brush and trees make for very tight quarters.  I’m considering the purchase of another rod.  My current 8.5′ 7weight is too big for this type of fishing.   Before I go any further, let me state that I’m cheap, and really don’t want to spend more than $150 for a rod.  That being the case I have narrowed down my choices to two rods by Cortland; a 7′ 3/4 weight, or a 7.5′ 4/5 weight.  Now I already have a reel loaded up with 4 weight line. My question is for my type of fishing which rod would work best? Will the 7′ 3/4weight  rod get overloaded with a 4 weight line on long casts (not that these streams have very many places to make long casts)?  Will the 7.5′ 4/5weight rod be too stiff to load up properly with 4weight line on short casts (most of the casting type I do) and hence lose control and finesse?

Okay, This culd be answered in a long missive going into theory of graphite modules, but… A dual rated rod is like any other rod, it’s just being a bit more accurate about what you can do. That is, any rod will handle more than one weight, the weight orinted on it is what the designers had in mind. A 4/5 rod will act a bit stiffer and thus a shade less responsive with a 4 weight line than with the 5 line. On the other hand, a 4/5 with the 4 will shoot line farther and will be a quicker rod to set the hook with. Finesse is sort of in between the two, you will have lots of power and be able to straighten the 4 out, but with a 5 you’ld get better "feel". Hope this helps, ask away if you need more. Bill Curry Tight Lines Tackle shop and Guide Service Lockeport, Nova Scotia, Canada Ph/Fax : 902-656-3329

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I have a question regarding rods that have ratings for 2 fly line weights.  First let me explain my situation.  I mostly fish small streams, where the trout rarely exceed 12" and the brush and trees make for very tight quarters.  I’m considering the purchase of another rod.  My current 8.5′ 7weight is too big for this type of fishing.   Before I go any further, let me state that I’m cheap, and really don’t want to spend more than $150 for a rod.  That being the case I have narrowed down my choices to two rods by Cortland; a 7′ 3/4 weight, or a 7.5′ 4/5 weight.  Now I already have a reel loaded up with 4 weight line. My question is for my type of fishing which rod would work best? Will the 7′ 3/4weight  rod get overloaded with a 4 weight line on long casts (not that these streams have very many places to make long casts)?  Will the 7.5′ 4/5weight rod be too stiff to load up properly with 4weight line on short casts (most of the casting type I do) and hence lose control and finesse? Any thoughts and/or suggestions? Thanks, D.P. Ignorance is bliss.

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I have a question regarding rods that have ratings for 2 fly line weights…… <mostly fish small streams…. I have narrowed down my choices to two rods by Cortland; a 7′ 3/4 weight, or a 7.5′ 4/5 weight….. Now I already have a reel loaded up with 4 weight line….. My question is for my type of fishing which rod would work best? Any thoughts and/or suggestions? Thanks, D.P.

Hey, D.P. The long and the short of it is test cast them.  I have not cast either rod you mention and without knowing the action of the rod it is not possible to answer your question (not that I will let that stop me), so your best bet is to stick a leader on your 4WT line with a piece of yarn attached and try them out. I suspect you will find that the 3/4 is the better choice. In general for short cast situations going one line size up gives you better loading of the rod, and thus higher lines speed. Course the argument can be made that at short distances you do not get much of loading of the rod anyways and you are actually casting the line alone and therefore could use a broomstick for all the difference it would make,  I tend to figure people with that kind of attitude are Insensitive wretches who have no appreciation of the finer things in life. P.S.  If you have not tried out the ST CROIX rods give them a check too. I don’t know about their shorter rods but the 9 FT. 5 WT is the best casting rod for it’s price on the market (IMHO).   Steven B.

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Question:

I’m planning a trip with several friends.  We want to fly into Albuquerque.  We’ve all been to the San Juan/Navajo Dam area several times, but want to go somewhere different.  We’re thinking about staying in going to Southern Colorado (Dolores, Durango, or somewhere near the Rio Grande River).  We are planning a 4-5 day trip and may consider a day of fishing at Navajo if the logistics work out.  We like low budget but comfortable motels.  Anyone have any ideas?  Fishing holes/destinations? Sleeping quarters? Thanks, Brian Sharp

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  I’m planning a trip with several friends.  We want to fly into   Albuquerque.  We’ve all been to the San Juan/Navajo Dam area several   times, but want to go somewhere different.  We’re thinking about staying   in going to Southern Colorado (Dolores, Durango, or somewhere near the Rio   Grande River).  We are planning a 4-5 day trip and may consider a day of   fishing at Navajo if the logistics work out.  We like low budget but   comfortable motels.  Anyone have any ideas?  Fishing holes/destinations?   Sleeping quarters? Also consider the Conejos River and it’s tributaries west of Antonito. Lots of different kinds of water, lots of public

access and lots of good camping spots and lodges. Denver, Colorado        ftp.rmii.com/pub2/gwgodden      

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Brain,  From personal experience I would like to suggest that you stay in Durango.  It makes a great central base to start from.  The Delores is about 1 1/2 hours due west and the San Juan is about 1 hour south.  The Rio Grande might be a problem because it is about 2 – 21/2 hours away due east.   If you looking for cheap lodgings pick up a copy of the  American Automobile Association’s (AAA) tour books for the states of New Mexico and Colorado.  They list just about every motel in the Durango area or the entire state for that matter.  They list prices too.  So you can shop around. If you are looking for a guide try:  Doug Buck at Duranglers in Durango, CO                                                   (303)-385-4081 He is familiar with just about all the waters that you mentioned. Good luck.  Let us know how you did.

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Call Tom Knopek at Duranglers in Durango if you’re looking for a guide. Several great places to fish.  Try the Delores below McPhee Dam north of Cortez Colorado.  Try the San Miguel near Telluride.  Last undammed river in Colo.  If you’ve got the time, Black Canyon of Gunnison river is once in a lifetime! Andy Gordon Phoenix, Arizona Andy Gordon, (602) 224-0999

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Question:

Greetings all! I am searching for larger sizes (3X to 6X) of sports wear.  Desperately need a fly fishing vest, waders and life jacket to fit my *wider* extremities.  Anyone know of reputable mail-order vendors in USA which specialize in these articles? Rick Kritikos — I’ve heard all the flames about loosing weight and you can get your clothes to fit… so keep ‘em to yourself… or I will sit on you…

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Greetings all! I am searching for larger sizes (3X to 6X) of sports wear.  Desperately need a fly fishing vest, waders and life jacket to fit my *wider* extremities.  

Rick Cabelas has a number of large sizes up to 4x on many fishing items and clothing as well. I also purchased custom made waders from Marathon through Gander Mtn. Good Fishing JonRC

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Rick, I went back and looked up your posting…waders for big or small people are not a problem there are several companies, Hodgeman for instance will make your exact size…Vests are a problem XXL is as big as I’ve seen, however there is a pretty good solution available…a lot of people are offering pack systems that are adjustable for any size- Predator and The Creek Company both offer a pack. I’m not a small person either, so if you run across anything that works for big guys please drop me a note. Drop me a note with your name and address and I’ll send you a copy of our catalog on a disk (or two).  We will be sending them sometime in the next week. Tom King King of the Hill Fly Fishing Co P.O. Box 304 Addison IL 60101

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