Question:

I think that I’ve got it narrowed down to a couple of different models: Wilderness Systems The Ride Perception Swing I plan on using it in the bays around Long Island, NY I do not plan on too much use in the surf, but it may happen. I’m looking for a good Kayak…I am trying to keep down the length to under 14 feet or so. I notice that The Ride has a factory installed Rudder as an option. Would this be a good idea for my kind of use? Is the Swing more versatile than the Ride? How about stability??? Help a newbie out please!! -Tim Before you buy.

Response:

I think that I’ve got it narrowed down to a couple of different models: Wilderness Systems The Ride Perception Swing

I have 2 Ride’s that I use in flat water rivers and inshore in saltwater (I live in Atlanta). I don’t have rudders and haven’t had problems with tracking, but I use mine primarily to fly fish from and not for any kind of touring. — Charlie…

Response:

I grew up on Peconic and Shinnecock bays and wish I could paddle there during these interminable hot days down south. If I were you I would go for the Freedom by WS over the Ride. Both have a rudder option but the Freedom without rudder is as stable as any sot I have ever been in. It seems to sit lower in the water which means it gets less side push from winds, it is faster than Ride and the cost is comparable (Ride w rudder, Freedom w/o) The rudder is not to steer but to keep you on a more or less straight line when winds push against you. I doubt you will need a rudder on the Freedom, learn to control the boat by edging and adjusting your paddle stroke. I would invest the extra money in getting the optional back rest, it will be worth it to you in comfort. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think that I’ve got it narrowed down to a couple of different models: Wilderness Systems The Ride Perception Swing I plan on using it in the bays around Long Island, NY I do not plan on too much use in the surf, but it may happen. I’m looking for a good Kayak…I am trying to keep down the length to under 14 feet or so. I notice that The Ride has a factory installed Rudder as an option. Would this be a good idea for my kind of use? Is the Swing more versatile than the Ride? How about stability??? Help a newbie out please!! -Tim Before you buy.

Response:

I was looking at the Freedom as well, but I elimintaed it due to it’s size….I thought it to be  too long.  I’ll take a closer look.  Anyone with any other thoughts??? Thanks, Tim I – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I grew up on Peconic and Shinnecock bays and wish I could paddle there during these interminable hot days down south. If I were you I would go for the Freedom by WS over the Ride. Both have a rudder option but the Freedom without rudder is as stable as any sot I have ever been in. It seems to sit lower in the water which means it gets less side push from winds, it is faster than Ride and the cost is comparable (Ride w rudder, Freedom w/o) The rudder is not to steer but to keep you on a more or less straight line when winds push against you. I doubt you will need a rudder on the Freedom, learn to control the boat by edging and adjusting your paddle stroke. I would invest the extra money in getting the optional back rest, it will be worth it to you in comfort. I think that I’ve got it narrowed down to a couple of different models: Wilderness Systems The Ride Perception Swing I plan on using it in the bays around Long Island, NY I do not plan on too much use in the surf, but it may happen. I’m looking for a good Kayak…I am trying to keep down the length to under 14 feet or so. I notice that The Ride has a factory installed Rudder as an option. Would this be a good idea for my kind of use? Is the Swing more versatile than the Ride? How about stability??? Help a newbie out please!! -Tim Before you buy.

Before you buy.

Response:

Hi Tim, I’m relatively new to sea kayaking and I recently bought a used Scupper Pro (sot) that’s 14′9". I got it because it was in my price range and offered good sized hatches for gear and I found it easy to paddle. (One week this summer I paddled around Shelter Island, Peconic Bay and such.) I’m curious why you didn’t want something longer than 14 feet. In my limited experience, length of the kayak on the water hasn’t been an issue – what do I not know? I am thinking of investigating the rudder option for the Scupper – tracking in wind on the big bays around here (southern New Jersey) would be easier! Karenne

Response:

Question:

I’m in with a variation of the wet McGinty my favorite bluegill fly.      Jim Robinson * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Frank Church writes:

(snip) This could get interesting.

The timing is a little off.  Fishing season starts next week (for me) in Maine for a month.  I won’t have time to tie, but I can come up with 12 flies (all of them catchers of trout) from my fly box.  They ain’t presentation flies, but they catch fish.  Count me in, Frank. Dave LaCourse

Response:

Count me in too, Frank.  Sounds like fun. I would appreciate a little info about how to use the fly as well, i.e. how to fish it, for what species, etc. Pat K

enough – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister.  

Response:

You touch a sensitive point here. Isn’t it remarkable that flies you intend to give away have to meet much higher standards than the flies you fish with? Suddenly the flies you put all your trust in at the water aren’t good enough to pass on to somebody else. So why not tie them ‘presentable’ in the first place? Same problem here.. I intend to tie CDC & Elk’s #14 for the swap, have plenty in my box, but I allready know I’ll tie 12 new, immaculate ones. Herman Frank Church writes: (snip) This could get interesting. The timing is a little off.  Fishing season starts next week (for me) in Maine for a month.  I won’t have time to tie, but I can come up with 12 flies (all of them catchers of trout) from my fly box.  They ain’t presentation flies, but they catch fish.  Count me in, Frank. Dave LaCourse

–         Cheers, Herman         Herman Nijland         Daytime webmaster         Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

OK Ope, your in.  With Pat and Dave LaCourse, we have 9 now.  Stay tuned and we’ll see if we can get the minimum 12 (or more, why not?) Frank Church – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Frank, Count me in.  I don’t tie very well yet, but the flys I have tied, especially my nymphs, catch trout.  I’ll do my best to not disappoint the tie masters! Opie

Response:

OK folks, I hadn’t planned to volunteer for a fly swap but if enough interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister. Watch out for the whiners who don’t get Mike Connor’s flies–and be prepared to eat the postage costs –Steve

Screw the whiners, and those that send flies without postage..guess what…*I* get to keep their flies! Frank Church

Response:

It’s probably not a big deal to have "doubles" in the swap, ie: 2 guys tying the same flies, but it would be nice if everyone got a complete mix of flies.  So how about if those who want to join in the swap indicate to me on or off list what fly you intend to tie. When this thing jells (or not) next Thursday, I will publish a complete list of the tiers and what they intend to tie. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

I intend to tie  CDC & Elk’s #14 for the swap, have plenty in my box, but I allready know – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’ll tie 12 new, immaculate ones. Herman

Response:

Count me in Frank, post the details at your convenience.                             Tom Littleton

Response:

OK Paul, you’re on the list. Frank Church – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am still a fairly new fly tier but this sound very interesting .  Please add my name to the list and let me know what happens.

Response:

Frank, Count me in.  I don’t tie very well yet, but the flys I have tied, especially my nymphs, catch trout.  I’ll do my best to not disappoint the tie masters! Opie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – OK folks, I hadn’t planned to volunteer for a fly swap but if enough interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister. Watch out for the whiners who don’t get Mike Connor’s flies–and be prepared to eat the postage costs –Steve

Response:

Steve Z OK folks, I hadn’t planned to volunteer for a fly swap but if enough interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister. Watch out for the whiners who don’t get Mike Connor’s flies–and be prepared to eat the postage costs –Steve

Every time I tied on a MC fly in NC, I caught a trout.  Great ties.  I have found that if you complain, just a little, you won’t have to eat the postage costs. <g Dave,  regularly fed on "postage costs". d;0)

Response:

As mentioned in a previous post, I have participated in a few fly swaps a fly swap or two during the year?  Winter is a good time for most of us that live in cold country, and are probably at the tying bench anyway.  As a newbie flytyer, I found this a good way to acquire some really well tied flies, and moved me to get at the vise and tie, tie, tie. (read learn, learn, learn)  Several fly swaps, each with a different "swapmeister", say a warmwater swap, and one for trout.  The number of people signing up for a swap would determine how many flies you would tie, and you would receive the same number. How about some feedback folks, how many would be interested in participating in a venture of this nature? Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

Response:

Frank, Count me in. I hosted the last swap on ROFF, somewhere last year, and the number of participants was quite low compared to the number of regulars over here. Hope this one will be different. What _might_ work is a favourite simple fly swap? The thing you tie on when you haven’t got a clue what’s working, the ‘looks like shit but catches an uncanny amout of fish’fly, the ‘I can tie these with my eyes closed, a bottle of Lagavullin’ down the hatch and still outfish anyone’fly? Cheers, Herman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As mentioned in a previous post, I have participated in a few fly swaps a fly swap or two during the year?  Winter is a good time for most of us that live in cold country, and are probably at the tying bench anyway.  As a newbie flytyer, I found this a good way to acquire some really well tied flies, and moved me to get at the vise and tie, tie, tie. (read learn, learn, learn)  Several fly swaps, each with a different "swapmeister", say a warmwater swap, and one for trout.  The number of people signing up for a swap would determine how many flies you would tie, and you would receive the same number. How about some feedback folks, how many would be interested in participating in a venture of this nature? Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

– Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

How about some feedback folks, how many would be interested in participating in a venture of this nature?

Count me in Frank.  I’d say let’s start asap, but I am still tying my donations to the western raffle.  Although a few more wouldn’t hurt. . . — Warren Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html Before you buy.

Response:

…What _might_ work is a favourite simple fly swap? The thing you tie on when you haven’t got a clue what’s working, the ‘looks like shit but catches an uncanny amout of fish’fly,…..

I happen to have one of those, Herman.  And I even have recent witnesses as to it’s efficacy.  Count me in.

Response:

Are you sure those witnesses weren’t influenced by the ‘recreational herbs’ as Ken put it? Herman …What _might_ work is a favourite simple fly swap? The thing you tie on when you haven’t got a clue what’s working, the ‘looks like shit but catches an uncanny amout of fish’fly,….. I happen to have one of those, Herman.  And I even have recent witnesses as to it’s efficacy.  Count me in.

– Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Are you sure those witnesses weren’t influenced by the ‘recreational herbs’ as Ken put it?

Doesn’t matter, really.  Herbs are widely available; no reason we can’t repeat the recipe whenever needed.

Response:

Now you’re making me curious.. so this swap has to succeed, no matter what. We’re still talking about flies, right? Are you sure those witnesses weren’t influenced by the ‘recreational herbs’ as Ken put it? Doesn’t matter, really.  Herbs are widely available; no reason we can’t repeat the recipe whenever needed.

– Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Now you’re making me curious.. so this swap has to succeed, no matter what. We’re still talking about flies, right?

Huh?  Flies?    :) O.K. Yes, we are talking about flies.  I was introduced to a pattern called a Pass Lake by the Malignant Dwarf many years ago.  Clipped mallard flank tail, fine black chenille for the body, a couple of turns of brown hackle swept back, and a white calf tail wing trude style.  This bug resembles nothing that ever lived in a stream or a lake and it has a perverse tendency to sink when you want it to float and vice versa.  Doesn’t matter much though because it consistently takes fish either way.  Trout and blue gills love it.  Herbs are optional, season to taste.

Response:

I’d be in for a "favorite" flyswap. Willi – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As mentioned in a previous post, I have participated in a few fly swaps a fly swap or two during the year?  Winter is a good time for most of us that live in cold country, and are probably at the tying bench anyway.  As a newbie flytyer, I found this a good way to acquire some really well tied flies, and moved me to get at the vise and tie, tie, tie. (read learn, learn, learn)  Several fly swaps, each with a different "swapmeister", say a warmwater swap, and one for trout.  The number of people signing up for a swap would determine how many flies you would tie, and you would receive the same number. How about some feedback folks, how many would be interested in participating in a venture of this nature? Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

Response:

OK folks, I hadn’t planned to volunteer for a fly swap but if enough interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister.  This can be either warmwater or trout type flies (your choice)  For this thing to be worth the effort for everyone, not the least of which is *me*, we must get a MINIMUM of 12 swappers.  I will be on the road until Monday or Tuesday, so in the meantime you can decide if you want to participate.  Post your name to ROFF so we can all see who is in the swap.  So far, we have: Frank Church Herman Nijland Warren Findley Wolfie Willi Loehman newer tiers among us, you don’t have to be an "expert" at this (as I certainly am not)  just be willing to give it a shot. From past experience, a few rules will apply should this proposed swap actually come about____ 1.  We will set a deadline as to when I must receive all the flies. 2.  Send your flies in a container that is apt to survive the USPS. 3.  Include return postage with your offering, and I will mail your flies back to you in the      container which you originally shipped to me. 4.  Put a tag on the hook naming the fly, the tyer, and any other pertinent info.      (without this, the recipients will have to guess, you wouldn’t want that, would you?  :-) 5.  In my experience, 30 days is about enough time for everyone to get ‘em tied and back to me.     There are always one or two who wait to the last possible minute and are late getting the flies in,     so a grace period will be set, and only I will know that so you procrastinators need to take heed. That’s about it…..it would be nice to have a lot of participants, think about it. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

Response:

How many flies were we talking about here? Mu

Response:

I am still a fairly new fly tier but this sound very interesting .  Please add my name to the list and let me know what happens. Paul

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – OK folks, I hadn’t planned to volunteer for a fly swap but if enough interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister.  This can be either warmwater or trout type flies (your choice)  For this thing to be worth the effort for everyone, not the least of which is *me*, we must get a MINIMUM of 12 swappers.  I will be on the road until Monday or Tuesday, so in the meantime you can decide if you want to participate.  Post your name to ROFF so we can all see who is in the swap.  So far, we have: Frank Church Herman Nijland Warren Findley Wolfie Willi Loehman newer tiers among us, you don’t have to be an "expert" at this (as I certainly am not)  just be willing to give it a shot. From past experience, a few rules will apply should this proposed swap actually come about____ 1.  We will set a deadline as to when I must receive all the flies. 2.  Send your flies in a container that is apt to survive the USPS. 3.  Include return postage with your offering, and I will mail your flies back to you in the      container which you originally shipped to me. 4.  Put a tag on the hook naming the fly, the tyer, and any other pertinent info.      (without this, the recipients will have to guess, you wouldn’t want that, would you?  :-) 5.  In my experience, 30 days is about enough time for everyone to get ‘em tied and back to me.     There are always one or two who wait to the last possible minute and are late getting the flies in,     so a grace period will be set, and only I will know that so you procrastinators need to take heed. That’s about it…..it would be nice to have a lot of participants, think about it. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

Response:

OK folks, I hadn’t planned to volunteer for a fly swap but if enough interest is shown I will serve as swapmeister.

Watch out for the whiners who don’t get Mike Connor’s flies–and be prepared to eat the postage costs –Steve

Response:

That depends on the number of participants.  With 12 participants, say, each one ties 12 (of the same) flies of their choice, mail them to me, then I will re-distribute the flies so everyone gets 12 different flies.  We will have to wait to see how many sign up.  I think the cut-off date for sign-up should be a week from now, 24 May.  Then we’ll know how many you have to tie. I want to stress that this is a "your favorite fly" swap,  so anything goes as far as what fly you choose to tie and submit.  This could get interesting. Frank Church Elkhart, IN – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many flies were we talking about here? Mu

Response:

Question:

Maybe a foolish question but i wonder if there are river maps available? The US Corps of Engineers publishes inexpensive river charts for the navigable river systems under their control. Most areas also have cruising guides available. — Skipper

Depending upon which Corps of Engineers Region you’re in you can get maps from http://www.usace.army.mil/         —Hutch * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Hello, I live on Crooked River in SE Georgia. I found a map (of sorts) at a Flyfishing shop. It isn’t "exact" and at least in the case of this river, it changes somewhat because of the flow of the river – we have tides because of being so close to the ocean – and there is continual changes in sand bars, etc. But the chart is certainly better than nothing and gives good views of major inlets, marshes, etc. So you might want to check out some Flyfishing shops in your area. Regards, liz Maybe a foolish question but i wonder if there are river maps available? The US Corps of Engineers publishes inexpensive river charts for the navigable river systems under their control. Most areas also have cruising guides available. — Skipper

Before you buy.

Response:

Maybe a foolish question but i wonder if there are river maps available?

The US Corps of Engineers publishes inexpensive river charts for the navigable river systems under their control. Most areas also have cruising guides available. — Skipper

Response:

Question:

    Don’t listen to Moe. Take your wife/girlfriend with you and try all the rods you can over a period of 3 wks and keep asking "wada you think about this one". At the end of this time she will (1)suggest you buy it if you like it. (2) Buy the one you seemed to like the most for you. or (3) Inform you she doesn’t give a damn, just buy one and leave her alone.

Funny. That’s the tactic my wife uses on me for shoes. — something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

You know what Thomas’ last name is don’t you?…..Winston!!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         close your eyes and begin saying "thomas & thomas" over and over and over again.  the only new rod you’ll ever need.         a. wayne harrison, totally subjective t&t freak.

Response:

So why do you like them so much? Mark Faulkner A upgrade in rod would do the most good probally but have you checked out the loop reels. They are amazing!  Check out there site at http://www.looptackle.se/

Response:

 Or I’ll just go down, buy it park it in the drive and tell her it followed me home, can I keep it, huh can I ?                                                           John Popp                                                         in Sanford Fl.

John – tried that once – doesn’t work. Mark Faulkner

Response:

Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew

Hi Stew, The rod upgrade will make the most difference in your fishing.  I’d suggest looking at rods in the $250 price range such as the Orvis Silver Label.  I especially like the Silver Label TL’s, but rod choice is very personal.  You need to cast as many rods in this price range as you can get your hands on to see what suits you best (half the fun of buying a new rod). Most major manufacturers have rods in this price range and that is where you get the most performance for the money.  The top of the line rods usually offer additional performance but at a much greater price.   If you were already at the mid-price level, I’d probably be recommending the reel upgrade instead.  The rod upgrade pays off everytime you cast it.  The reel upgrade pays off when you hook a fish that you have to (get to) play off the reel.                        Hope this helps,                             Dan Dan Gracia Orvis

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Another suggestion is to look at a previously owned rod.  This way you could take a big jump.  I agree with upgrading the rod first, and I too like Orvis Silver Labels.  I own one along with several other rods.   Consider talking with

Response:

I am waiting for my rod to be repaired (4th time) and fishing with my backup.  Your reel seldom breaks, so if you can only get one, get another rod so you can have a spare.  -Better yet, get another combo.

Response:

I have only broken one rod in fifty years of flyfishing.  I have seven rods, four fiberglass two graphite and one bamboo.  I made most of them from blanks because I wanted to see the difference in various manufacturers.  You should have a backup rod in case something happens to one.  A friend of mine took two rods on a horse pack trip in plastic cases.  The packer packed them together on the side of the pack and the horse broke them both, so watch your rods closely or you may not get to fish when you get there. — Ernie Harrison Remove NOSPAM to send E-Mail Selling my Fly Fishing Books Go to: http://users.ccnet.com/~emh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am waiting for my rod to be repaired (4th time) and fishing with my backup.  Your reel seldom breaks, so if you can only get one, get another rod so you can have a spare.  -Better yet, get another combo.

Response:

Okay y’all are giving me some good ideas here now ….so what is there to making a rod from a blank? Does it really ssave like when I make my own golf clubs? Where does a person buy blanks and the associated stuff from? Stew – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have only broken one rod in fifty years of flyfishing.  I have seven rods, four fiberglass two graphite and one bamboo.  I made most of them from blanks because I wanted to see the difference in various manufacturers.  You should have a backup rod in case something happens to one.  A friend of mine took two rods on a horse pack trip in plastic cases.  The packer packed them together on the side of the pack and the horse broke them both, so watch your rods closely or you may not get to fish when you get there. — Ernie Harrison Remove NOSPAM to send E-Mail Selling my Fly Fishing Books Go to: http://users.ccnet.com/~emh I am waiting for my rod to be repaired (4th time) and fishing with my backup.  Your reel seldom breaks, so if you can only get one, get another rod so you can have a spare.  -Better yet, get another combo.

– #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew — #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

Hi Stew, There are lots of great fly rods around $200. Most anglers are fishing 9′ #5 line rods for trout. Sage DS, Scott Alpha & Voyager, Loomis GL2 & 3, T&T Emerger are all great values.  These are the entry level rods from the top fly rod manufacturers. Your reel should be OK till it fails to work for you. Good fly lines are $30 to $50, so there is no excuse for not having the best. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY www.kiene.com

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 Or I’ll just go down, buy it park it in the drive and tell her it followed me home, can I keep it, huh can I ?                                                           John Popp                                                         in Sanford Fl. John – tried that once – doesn’t work. Mark Faulkner

Mark Let her choose the colour and you can get anything you want, (budgets and bank cooperation assuming.) Peter

Response:

I don’t know about that Peter, he would look a little silly in a pink 4-wheel vehicle. — Ernie Harrison Remove NOSPAM to send E-Mail Selling my Fly Fishing Books Go to: http://users.ccnet.com/~emh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  Or I’ll just go down, buy it park it in the drive and tell her it followed me home, can I keep it, huh can I ?                                                           John Popp                                                         in Sanford Fl. John – tried that once – doesn’t work. Mark Faulkner Mark Let her choose the colour and you can get anything you want, (budgets and bank cooperation assuming.) Peter

Response:

Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew

 New reel!…at least with a light reel you’ll NOW be able to feel just what your rod is doing….how it’s action is…  Until you get a grip on the casting qualities of this rod (which the heavy Pfleuger is Masking!), you won’t know what you really will desire in an expensive rod….especially for a trout rod…..Steelhead, Stripers, Salmon…now the Reel plays a major part of the game…but still….the lighter is usually the better. $.02, steve d.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew — #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

    Don’t listen to Moe. Take your wife/girlfriend with you and try all the rods you can over a period of 3 wks and keep asking "wada you think about this one". At the end of this time she will (1)suggest you buy it if you like it. (2) Buy the one you seemed to like the most for you. or (3) Inform you she doesn’t give a damn, just buy one and leave her alone.                                                            John Popp                                                         in Sanford Fl.

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haha i have 2 loops, i love them!     — Nicholas J. Slodki

:A upgrade in rod would do the most good probally but have you checked ut the loop reels. They are amazing!  Check out there site at :http://www.looptackle.se/

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – [deleted] I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. [deleted] I’d spend the money on a few "kitchen passes" myself (i.e. roses for the little lady, dinner perhaps). New rod won’t do you any good while your cleaning out the refrigerator. Your pal, — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "Guilt replaced the creel…"

   Come now Tim, what wife wouldn’t want her hubby to replace his rod with one that has a bit more action ? Also your idea, if accepted on a large scale could cause serious world wide consequences: for instance I’m looking at getting rid of an old dodge slant 6 van (given up on it breaking down and junking it) and replaceing it with a dodge ram 1500 short bed quad cab v8 with tow package and all the goodys, that being the case candy stocks should take a huge rise and at least a couple hundred acres of flower fields will be denuded. Now that new vehicles are out and every one wants a new one, imagine the devistation. Nope I’ll just say something nice and while shes in shock STRIKE. (been married a long time). Or I’ll just go down, buy it park it in the drive and tell her it followed me home, can I keep it, huh can I ?                                                           John Popp                                                         in Sanford Fl.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew — #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

        close your eyes and begin saying "thomas & thomas" over and over and over again.  the only new rod you’ll ever need.         a. wayne harrison, totally subjective t&t freak. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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D. Stewart McLeod wrote… I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment.

I don’t have any recommendations, but did want to say that as soon as I saw the "What To Upgrade" subject line, I couldn’t help but think of PC hardware and software upgrades. "When was the last release of Pfleuger, Pfleuger 71 or 94? I do know that Pfleuger 71 had to be upgraded with a Service Pack (a machined aluminum foot, sold separately, not available in the OEM releases of Pfleuger) so it could work with a Sage-96, or for that matter, any earlier release of Sage or Orvis. Speaking of Sage-96, why is it so much more expensive than say Sage-90?  At least it doesn’t take up more rod-tube space." Someone with far greater writing talents than me could have fun with this.  "If Microsoft Sold Fishing Gear" Thomas Gilg

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I’d also suggest upgrading a rod before a reel.  the manfacturere already mentioned are all good.  You might also look at the Thomas & Thomas emerger series.  These rods are priced approximately the same as the Discovery series from Sage and the entry level Loomis’. Tim also makes a good point.  "Kitchen passes" are always good to have. Have fun selecting a rod. Chris Brown – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew — #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

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A upgrade in rod would do the most good probally but have you checked out the loop reels. They are amazing!  Check out there site at http://www.looptackle.se/

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This is a no-brainer in my book, Stew – go for the rod, and have fun casting a bunch of different rods in making the selection. Mark Faulkner – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew — #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

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Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew — #  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. #"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; # an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." #    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965)

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Steweart writes:

<<Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. Stew Stew, I would focus the money on the rod.  Unless you are into a lot of big trout, the reel simply holds your line for you.   While there is no denying a silky smooth reel is something to drool over, it isn’t necessary for most of us unless you are after steelhead, salmon, bonefish, BIG trout etc. Check out the St. Croix rods or the Reddington line for some nice upgrades.   You may also want to check out some of the rod/reel combo’s from Sage, Orvis and Loomis.  I know you can get a Sage Discovery with a reel, line and metal tube for around $265 or so.  I bought one years ago and still use it a lot. Mike

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[deleted] I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new rod or reel.

[deleted] I’d spend the money on a few "kitchen passes" myself (i.e. roses for the little lady, dinner perhaps). New rod won’t do you any good while your cleaning out the refrigerator. Your pal, — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "Guilt replaced the creel…"

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I’d say replace the rod.  Check out Orvis, Diamondback, Loomis or St. Croix. They make excellent rods ranging from $95-$500. — Nicholas J. Slodki

:Gents (and ladies ..:-) ) : :I have been fly fishing for the past two years and now I feel it is time :to upgrade my equipment. Don’t ask me why, I just feel I can benefit :from  "better" equipment. I currently own a  Pfleuger starter set which :my wife bought me a couple of Christmas’ ago. : :I guess my big question is, where would me money be better spent, a new :rod or reel. My gut tells me the rod is the place to build a solid :foundation around and look at a new reel down the rod. I fish for trout :in the streams and rivers of Washington State and occasionally back home :in Calgary Alberta., but again for trout. : :Stew : : :– :#  D. Stew McLeod … working at The Boeing Company .. in Renton, WA. :#"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; :# an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." :#    - Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965) : : :

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Question:

Does any one know how the dry conditions in Alaska is affecting the fishing?  I am planning a trip this month to Fairbanks, and need to know if it will be worth fishing.  Also, any good home pages about Alaska fishing? David L. Ransom ‘94 "Railwacker" ‘83 Nighthawk 650,       ‘50 Chevy 1/2 ton http://http.tamu.edu:8000/~daver/dave.html

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Does any one know how the dry conditions in Alaska is affecting the fishing?  I am planning a trip this month to Fairbanks, and need to know if it will be worth fishing.  Also, any good home pages about Alaska fishing? David L. Ransom ‘94 "Railwacker" ‘83 Nighthawk 650,       ‘50 Chevy 1/2 ton http://http.tamu.edu:8000/~daver/dave.html

I just came back from a week in the Bristol Bay area.  The water level is down as much as 5′ in some of the lake systems from normal this time of year.  It depends on where you go and what feeds the drainage you are in.  If the drainage is mainly yearly snow melt then the water will be down.  If the source is glacial then the water level might be up because of the early warm weather we’ve had. All in all, and in most areas, the fishing will probably not suffer this year.  It may affect pink salmon runs and spawning because they use small steams that could be impassable this year.  The pot hole country that I flew over last week looked just slightlly lower that normal, (less than a foot.) I’d say go for it, when in doubt take your gear.  You can do other tourist stuff just as easy with your fly rod in the hotel room if the fishing is not good. R. Wood in Alaska

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Philip: ROFF is not a binaries group.  If you have pictures to share, post a text-only message to ROFF alerting people to the pictures and post the actual pictures to alt.binaries.pictures.fishing. Many news servers will strip the picture out automatically if you try to post to ROFF, so folks may never see what you intended them to.  Other than that, posting to ABPF will save you from people who have slow connections that get clogged by a picture you posted, even though you had the best of intentions.  Doing otherwise can be the newsgroup equivalent of slashing open major blood vessels before jumping into the shark tank at the aquarium. Zippy —< This article was posted through www.newzpig.com —

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Hi Philip, Nice picture. That would look great blown up and framed on your wall. It reminded me of a float trip I once tool in AK. Thanks. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop http://www.kiene.com 800/4000FLY USA toll free

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks to everyone on the board who offered advice on fly patterns and how to fish for salmon in Alaska.  It paid off.  We caught many salmon (3 species in five days).  Plus, we got into some very aggressive Dollies. Thanks….

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If one were to move to Alaksa, where would the optimum location be.  Heres the factors to consider,  occupation: Science teacher,  type of fish wanted: Salmon/trout (duh), uncrowded fishing (if possible anymore), close enough to a larger town/city to occupy my wife for a day (or two) here and there.

Sounds like you want to live in Wasilla – its north of Anchorage 50 miles or so. Lots of rivers, lakes and wide open spaces. Wasilla has just enough of a population for schools and such. I can’t stand the place myself, but lots of people love it there – the fishing is first class however. Hans – Juneau, AK

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If one were to move to Alaksa, where would the optimum location be.  Heres the factors to consider,  occupation: Science teacher,  type of fish wanted: Salmon/trout (duh), uncrowded fishing (if possible anymore), close enough to a larger town/city to occupy my wife for a day (or two) here and there.

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what flies and rods are good for the trout speices there?  When is the best time of the year to go?  Thanks for your time

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what flies and rods are good for the trout speices there?  When is the best time of the year to go?  Thanks for your time

   The question is a little vague to get much in the way of usefull response. Keep in mind that Alaska is about 20% as large as the entire Lower 48 so a lot depends on where in Alaska you’re talking about. There’s plenty of areas in Alaska that don’t have any trout. Are you talking about fishing on the road system or in the bush?    I fish some rivers that only have fish in them for 4-6 weeks a year and others that fish well all season long. There are some rivers that I like to fish in June and others that I want to be on in September. There is no best time of year; it depends on what you want to do and how you want to fish. Trout season opens in Southwest and Southcentral Alaska from early to mid-June. After September weather becomes iffy and a lot depends on how early winter sets in. Flies and equipment depend on when and where you’re going.

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Question:

Join us for dinner at a new soul-food restaurant, after we surf the rapids on inner tubes in the Catskill Mountains on Saturday, Sept 14      Our 26th adventure will be appreciated by the thrill seekers everywhere.  Several times a year, a dam is opened in the Catskill Mountains.  This results in a tidal wave surging down the Esopus Creek.  Whitewater enthusiasts seize upon this moment to shoot these rapids on truck inner tubes.  If you seek an adrenalin rush, read on.      Our car pool will take us on a 2.6 hour trip to Phoenicia, New York, a village of 970 in the Catskill Mountains.  It is west of Woodstock, New York and south of Hunter Mountain (elevation, 4,025 feet).  The Phoenicia Business Association claims that they are the "northeast’s tubing capital".  In fact, they are blessed with no less than three (count ‘em) tube rental companies.  Phoenicia also boasts of "world class" fly fishing, although fishing for flies never appealed to us.        After we arrive in Phoenicia, we will board a shuttle van operated by the Rubber Ducky Tube Rental Company (no, we are not making the name up).  It will take us to the headwaters of the Esopus Creek.  Those fluent in the Mohawk Indian dialect will know "Esopus" means fast water.  Those not fluent but not legally blind will realize this anyhow.  The Esopus feeds the Ashokan Reservoir, which is a source of New York City drinking water.  So it’s clean.      Rubber Ducky will provide us with helmets, foot protectors (old sneakers, really) and thickly padded life jackets.  After being suitably atTired for tubing (no pun intended), we will assume a reclining diaper position in a modified truck tire inner tubes. They will have rope handles (hold on tight!) and a seat.      The seat is just a wood board, but it protects your buns against unsightly bruises, thereby saving you from embarrassing questions from your significant other.  But you can expect minor bruises and scrapes on other body parts.  You may want to bring knee pads.        Your next 100 minutes on the Esopus Creek will give you a deeper appreciation of what it would be like to be a pair of underpants during the spin cycle.  With of course, a scenic view of the Catskill Mountains.  Among the sights you can see is the twisted wreck of a steel railroad trestle, which was nearly washed away by the raging waters of the Esopus.      Lest we scare you away from doing this trip, we feel duty bound to advise you that we tubed the Esopus on our 14th outing on June 22nd, with no loss of life or ill effects.  Indeed, everyone wanted to do it again.  Admittedly, we did not go when there was a dam opening.  However, Rubber Ducky tells us that tubing is a lot smoother when there is a dam opening.  This is because the water level is higher, so there are less rocks to bump into, and hence, there is less chance you will be spilled into the water.  The water, however, is faster, making for a quicker, and more fun ride.      Our deal with Rubber Ducky includes unlimited rides upstream on their shuttle to the casting-off point.  So you can do the ride down the Esopus over and over again, for just $13, everything included.  We will stay until our third and last run is completed between 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm.        Lunch:  After our first run, we will eat lunch together.  The Phoenicia Business Association says the village has "great" restaurants.  We found one nice outdoor cafe which served decent brick oven pizza.        Dinner:  We will have dinner at about 9 pm at Mr. Tony’s Soul Kitchen, 337 East 9th Street.  It was reviewed in the New York Times by Eric Asimov on September 6, 1996 (excerpted below):      New York Times best dishes recommendations:  Salmon cakes, green salad, sweet potato pancakes, soups, chicken fried steak, sauteed trout, grilled tuna, fried chicken breast, watermelon sorbet, flourless chocolate cake, fruit cobblers.      "And word is slowly getting around about the food, which inspired by Southern traditions but is completely contemporary American cooking.  Dinners start with a basket of corn bread, neither dry nor greasy, sometimes blended with cheddar cheese, other times with jalapeno.  The menu is small but has some significant standouts, like fresh salmon cakes ($7.95) with crisp, wonderfully delicate skins, served with a dill remoulade and a nice little green salad.  A bigger green salad ($5.75) is terrific, topped with walnuts and little buttons of goat cheese.  Crisp sweet-potato pancakes ($5.25) look big and awkward, but they are delicious, served with a chunky, spicy apple sauce.      Me. Tony’s "painstaking prepared soup du jour" ($5) earns its name.  One day it’s a corn-and-leek chowder with a lingering smoky taste.  Another day it’s a peppery cream of broccoli soup with a lasting, multidimensional flavor.  Main courses all come with creamy mashed potatoes and a vegetable.  I ordered chicken fried steak ($11.95), imagining truck-stop fare best washed down with high-octane coffee; I was astonished to find a real steak in a delicate breading with a dainty cream gravy and glazed carrots.  A special of grilled tuna steak au poivre ($13.95) came rare and very peppery in a sweet blend of port wine and soy sauce.  Fried chicken breast ($8.95) in an excellent, smoky barbecue sauces is much better than the pallid, unremarkable roasted chicken ($9.95) and the surprisingly dry broiled pork chop ($10.95).      …Mr. Gaskin is volubly proud of his desserts ($4 each).  I’m sure his father would be proud, too.  I’m sure his father would be proud, too, with dishes like refreshing watermelon sorbet, rich flourless chocolate cake topped with chocolate sauce, and wonderful fruit cobblers served in little ramekins."      Departure:  From 86th Street and Broadway, northwest corner, in front of the Gap, near the exits for the 1 and 9 local trains, on Saturday, September 14th (rain date, 9/15).  We LEAVE at 9:03 a.m. SHARP.  No kidding.      Directions:  Take the New York State Thruway to Exit 19 at Kingston.  Follow Route 28 west for 25 miles.  See sign on right welcoming you to Phoenicia.  Go down ramp, over the bridge, and make left to Rubber Ducky (914-688-2018).      Reservations:  You can make life as easier for us by confirming your reservation ASAP.  Please tell us if you joining us for dinner AND whether you can make it Sunday if the weather is bad -NYC Young Adult Activity Group-

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    Our 26th adventure will be appreciated by the thrill seekers everywhere.  Several times a year, a dam is opened in the Catskill Mountains.  This results in a tidal wave surging down the Esopus Creek.  Whitewater enthusiasts seize upon this moment to shoot these rapids on truck inner tubes.  If you seek an adrenalin rush, read on.

"Whitewater enthusiasts" paddle down these rapids in appropriate watercraft, with appropriate equipment, including PFD’s, helmets, sufficient clothing to withstand rather cold water, and, most importantly, with appropriate knowledge of class III whitewater. Tubing the Esopus is, at best, a dubious idea, suitable not for "thrillseekers" but for those with a careless attitude toward their health.  If you must engage in tubing, please do it on a river like the Delaware, where the consequences are likely to be much less severe. —Rsk

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: Join us for dinner at a : new soul-food restaurant, : after we surf the rapids on : inner tubes in the Catskill : Mountains on Saturday, Sept 14 Hey everyone, The trip has been moved to Sunday, Sept 15. You can check out the site for the any late updates (http://www.cnct.com/home/kris/) -Charlie-NYCYAAG-

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Question:

The local server was down for 10 days. Before then, there was some talk of creating  a separate newsgroup for fly tyers. How do we vote on this?

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The local server was down for 10 days. Before then, there was some talk of creating  a separate newsgroup for fly tyers. How do we vote on this?

Sir, How to vote: Your e-mail message should contain one and only one of the following statements: I vote YES on rec.outdoors.fishing.fly.tying                     or I vote NO on rec.outdoors.fishing.fly.tying Votes must be recieved by 23:59:59 utc, 10 Apr 1996 Hope this helps Tight lines Dave

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Question:

Could someone please post me detials of what this organisation does and how I can get hold of them internationally – 1800 numbers are no good to a New Zealander. Best Wishes Simon Simon Lusk Fly Fishing New Zealand on the WWW http://www-aghort.massey.ac.nz/flyfish/intro Department of Consumer Technology Massey University Palmerston North New Zealand

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Hi Simon The FFF’s moto is Conserving, Restoring, & Educating through Fly Fishing. Our main focus is on education, especially youth, and conservation.  To get information sent to you contact then at the following Compuserve email address: Good luck Al Beatty (former FFF President) BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT

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Could someone please post me detials of what this organisation does and how I can get hold of them internationally – 1800 numbers are no good to a New Zealander. Best Wishes Simon Lusk Fly Fishing New Zealand on the WWW http://www-aghort.massey.ac.nz/flyfish/intro Department of Consumer Technology Massey University Palmerston North New Zealand

Simon, the FFF has a Web site at <http://www.wsa.com/ool/fff.html.  The site gives a lot of information as well as offering a link for E-mail. The direct tele# in Bozeman, MT is 406-585-7592. I hope this helps.   —Catch & Release— To catch a fish is human,     To release it is divine!

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Question:

Looking for any information on fly fishing for trout in the Phoenix, Arizona area, radius 250 miles.  Streams, rivers, lakes, etc..

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Sedona, is w/in your 250 miles, boasts art galleries, shops, and great fishing. There is a small stream, Oak Creek Canyon, that holds Browns and stocked Bows. Fish above slide rock for the browns.  Tan Caddis larva was working well this month.  The White Mountains, about 200 miles east of Phoenix has a wide variety of streams and lakes, almost all of which are full of browns, bows, brookies, and the native Apache golden trout. (602)902-0881.

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Question:

I’m curious,  are you refering to the Green River not in Wyoming, but in Utah.  The section below Flaming Gorge dam.  I know the Green has its origins in Wyoming, but the best section to fish is in Utah. If so, I may be able to help. — -Bill

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Hi everybody! Can anybody tell me what’s the best place at Green River, Wyoming to start fly-fishing at? What kind of fly patterns would you suggest there? What’s the best time of year to go there fishing? Any other hints about that place? Thanks a lot for your help! Claudine — Student at University of Zurich, Department of Computer Science

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