Question:

"John Kowalski" and others have asked me for the Steelhead Clouser Fly Pattern I used to fish on this trip.  I sent him a slightly different pattern than I actually used.  Here is the pattern as used, your mileage may vary: Steelhead Clouser Flat Wing Tube Fly. Tube: 1/2 of a plastic hollow Q-tip with the swabs removed (One end will be rough to hold the swab — use this end for the hook keeper/holder) Hook Holder: Light Blue small hobby gas engine fuel line (like for RC airplanes)- I used permanent markers to cover the light blue to match the body Thread: Black Body: Ultra-Chenille purple, pink or chartreuse wrapped with silver wire Eyes: Painted Dumbbell Eyes (Red) Wing: Black Bucktail (or Black Fishhair/Ultrahair) wrap this back a 1/2" from the dumbbell eyes for a flatter wing appearance Bottom Wing: White Bucktail (or White Fishhair/Ultrahair) mixed with a few Purple Flashabou or Krystal Flash or your favorite matching body color Hook: Your favorite steelhead hook including small shank hooks and circle hooks Chris "Padishar Creel" Fanning

Response:

I just got home and wanted to share my fishing experiences.  I have been Steelhead fishing the last two days at a river I cannot reveal, since a friend was my guide and asked me not to share the location, but he did not say I couldn’t share the experience… I hooked 30+ Steelhead and landed 22 over the past two days.  I have NEVER had such success in my entire life!  I caught every single fish on the Steelhead Clouser Tube Fly in black, white and purple…However, I admit any good pattern would have seemed to worked…my buddy used the Purple Peril and a couple of his own designs, although I out fished him 2 to 1 (advantage to the Spey Rod — I was able to cover considerably more water than he could with is 8wt single-hander)…The recent rains in the Pacific NW is moving fish and it looks like a banner year… Padishar Creel…Only hit myself in the head with a fly 4 times in the last 2 days…a record…:)

Response:

Wow, that sounds great.  Let me know if you need a drift boat trip for the exchange of that spot. Hillsboro, OR

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just got home and wanted to share my fishing experiences.  I have been Steelhead fishing the last two days at a river I cannot reveal, since a friend was my guide and asked me not to share the location, but he did not say I couldn’t share the experience… I hooked 30+ Steelhead and landed 22 over the past two days.  I have NEVER had such success in my entire life!  I caught every single fish on the Steelhead Clouser Tube Fly in black, white and purple…However, I admit any good pattern would have seemed to worked…my buddy used the Purple Peril and a couple of his own designs, although I out fished him 2 to 1 (advantage to the Spey Rod — I was able to cover considerably more water than he could with is 8wt single-hander)…The recent rains in the Pacific NW is moving fish and it looks like a banner year… Padishar Creel…Only hit myself in the head with a fly 4 times in the last 2 days…a record…:)

Response:

An outstanding trip Chris. I’d sure like to find some of that action.  Had one day like that last year, you can never forget it. Chas

..  Great TR clipped …

Response:

"Randy Kane" attempted to tempt me with a nice drift boat trip for the secret to the spot. Randy, I would love to accept your generous and tempting offer and I always enjoy fishin’ with new fly fisherman, however, even though my ethics can be strained, I am hopeful to be invited again on combination trip of upland game bird hunting and fly fishing with the friend who just made my trip of a lifetime. Sorry, Padishar Creel

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I just got home and wanted to share my fishing experiences.  I have been Steelhead fishing the last two days at a river I cannot reveal, since a friend was my guide and asked me not to share the location, but he did not say I couldn’t share the experience… I hooked 30+ Steelhead and landed 22 over the past two days.  I have NEVER had such success in my entire life!  I caught every single fish on the Steelhead Clouser Tube Fly in black, white and purple…However, I admit any good pattern would have seemed to worked…my buddy used the Purple Peril and a couple of his own designs, although I out fished him 2 to 1 (advantage to the Spey Rod — I was able to cover considerably more water than he could with is 8wt single-hander)…The recent rains in the Pacific NW is moving fish and it looks like a banner year… Padishar Creel…Only hit myself in the head with a fly 4 times in the last 2 days…a record…:)

Only four times – try harder, OK? and about the trip – Spey rods rule!!! hope you’re not getting whacked by the crappy weather out your way Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Peter, Could you share the pattern for your Clouser Tube Fly pattern with me?  I tried to e=mail yo through the link on the web page you list and it came

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just got home and wanted to share my fishing experiences.  I have been Steelhead fishing the last two days at a river I cannot reveal, since a friend was my guide and asked me not to share the location, but he did not say I couldn’t share the experience… I hooked 30+ Steelhead and landed 22 over the past two days.  I have NEVER had such success in my entire life!  I caught every single fish on the Steelhead Clouser Tube Fly in black, white and purple…However, I admit any good pattern would have seemed to worked…my buddy used the Purple Peril and a couple of his own designs, although I out fished him 2 to 1 (advantage to the Spey Rod — I was able to cover considerably more water than he could with is 8wt single-hander)…The recent rains in the Pacific NW is moving fish and it looks like a banner year… Padishar Creel…Only hit myself in the head with a fly 4 times in the last 2 days…a record…:) Only four times – try harder, OK? and about the trip – Spey rods rule!!! hope you’re not getting whacked by the crappy weather out your way Peter Visit The Streamer Page at

http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

Peter, Could you share the pattern for your Clouser Tube Fly pattern with me?  I tried to e=mail yo through the link on the web page you list and it came

That pattern belongs to Chris, perhaps he can put it up for you. Tested the mail function on my page – seems to be OK. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

I’m sorry but I don’t know Chris.  Do you have his email? thanks

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Peter, Could you share the pattern for your Clouser Tube Fly pattern with me?  I tried to e=mail yo through the link on the web page you list and it came That pattern belongs to Chris, perhaps he can put it up for you. Tested the mail function on my page – seems to be OK. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at

http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

I’m sorry but I don’t know Chris.  Do you have his email? thanks

You must have missed the lead post in this thread as Chris got it started – it was his trip and his fly.  I picked his email off of that HTH Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Yes, I found it immediately after the last post. Thanks, JFK

I’m sorry but I don’t know Chris.  Do you have his email? thanks You must have missed the lead post in this thread as Chris got it started – it was his trip and his fly.  I picked his email off of that HTH Peter Visit The Streamer Page at

http://www.mountaincable.net/~pcharles/streamers/index.html — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

Question:

If you are interested at all in fishing this area, which is widely regarded as some of the best flyfishing in the State, please contact your state representative and state senator. By all means. Thanks, Stan.

Is this area of no importance, security-wise? Why do we want t opened if it a potential target? BTW, did they ever find out who flew over the Quabbin’s restricted airpace on Sep 11 / 12? — Gary M

Response:

If you are interested at all in fishing this area, which is widely regarded as some of the best flyfishing in the State, please contact your state representative and state senator. Is this area of no importance, security-wise? Why do we want t opened if it a potential target?

Because it’s mine (and yours, if you pay taxes) and I (we) paid for it. If they wish to have security check to make sure only U.S. citizens are allowed, that’s fine. If they want to impose an extra fee for entrance to offset costs of additional security, I could probably even live with that, if it weren’t for the fact that these fees would probably remain permanently. I’ve not seen many "temporary" fees, taxes, or tolls removed in my lifetime – especially while in Massachusetts. We should not be content to let our freedoms slip away because of the attacks on 9/11. What the past has always dictated to us is that freedoms, once lost, are difficult to regain. BTW, did they ever find out who flew over the Quabbin’s restricted airpace on Sep 11 / 12?

That’s a good question. I never heard anything further on that incident. I guess we can’t blame that on some rambunctious teenagers, can we? Tim

Response:

Is this area of no importance, security-wise? Why do we want t opened if it a potential target?

To be truthful, the only reason I would like to see it opened is to keep Easterners off the stretches I like to fish. It’s really not a big security risk, but the the people tasked with protecting it are a lot more paranoid than normal people (that’s their job).  The proposed access restrictions were a good compromise between full access and protection of the two areas that are really security problems (both of which are buildings that could easily be fenced off and monitored). BTW, did they ever find out who flew over the Quabbin’s restricted airpace on Sep 11 / 12?

At least one plane was identified and I believe the pilot got a substantial fine.  FWIW, before people got all nervous, flights over Quabbin occurred almost daily, and many flew lower than regulations.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is this area of no importance, security-wise? Why do we want t opened if it a potential target? To be truthful, the only reason I would like to see it opened is to keep Easterners off the stretches I like to fish. It’s really not a big security risk, but the the people tasked with protecting it are a lot more paranoid than normal people (that’s their job).  The proposed access restrictions were a good compromise between full access and protection of the two areas that are really security problems (both of which are buildings that could easily be fenced off and monitored). BTW, did they ever find out who flew over the Quabbin’s restricted airpace on Sep 11 / 12? At least one plane was identified and I believe the pilot got a substantial fine.  FWIW, before people got all nervous, flights over Quabbin occurred almost daily, and many flew lower than regulations.

I found it interesting (read absurd) that they opened access to the actual reservoir and closed a section of river past the public water supply. Paul

Response:

I found it interesting (read absurd) that they opened access to the actual reservoir and closed a section of river past the public water supply.

The Y-Pool area is probably the most vulnerable to an attack, ad it affords access to the base of the dam, via the defunct power station, and the filtration plant on Rte 9. The powers that be have admitted that poisonong is not a major concern because of the amount of water involved, but destruction of the dam is considered a likely objective. That said, it is highly unlikely that the dam would be a priority target for terrorists, and New York City, which currently has similar restrictions on their water supply, will allow access to their watershed staring April 1. As Stan pointed out, the barring of access to the Y-Pool is simply paranoia exhibited by the state police.It;s also a lot simpler for them if no access is allowed….they can simply arrest everyone they see in there, although they couldn’t catch the kids, (if there actually were any), that were tresspassing a few weeks ago. Shows how effective the regulations would be against terrorists. Definitely time to put some pressure on our legislators. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

Response:

Steve Brewer is for real – he’s solidly on the side of sportsmen.

Balsnce snipped for brevity. Unfortunately there were only four of us at the meeting interested in the Swift, while there were forty or so interested in the Quabbin. Strength in numbers and all that. FWIW, I emailed Sen. Brewer and Rep.Hillman. I have not heard from Brewer, but received an immsdiate reply from Hillman, pledging his support. Since he is the retired commandant of the State Police, he should carry some weight, but he will have to know that a number of others are interested. I just sent out the monthly WMFF newsletter, and included a plea for members to contact their legislators. I would hope TU does likewise. Unfortunately, even though the upper Swift always seems crowded,  there is a relatively small number of people that utilize the area, and they reside in several different districts, so there isn’t enough voting power to make this a hot issue, politically. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

Response:

I received a reply letter from Steven Brewer (State Senator) yesterday that states he is also behind the cause and has already called for and conducted meetings regarding this issue. It’s hard to tell from the letter how much is real trying versus political posturing, but he’s been honorable in the past and I wouldn’t expect anything different now. If I remember, I’ll scan it and post it on ABPF for all to read. It looks like a form letter, so I hope he’s received many complaints about opening the area to fly fishing. Tim

Steve Brewer is for real – he’s solidly on the side of sportsmen.  He’s the guy who ran the meetings at Quabbin when they were first discussing the issues a few weeks ago.  Unfortunately, as he put it at the last meeting I went to, the people in Boston stole the water fair and square and will steal access rights to the surrounding land if they can. –Stan

Response:

Mass. MDC issued a press release yesterday confirming the rumors that the section of the Swift River north of Route 9 will remain closed ‘for the foreseeable future’ due to security concerns.  The full press release is available at the MDC web site at http://www.state.ma.us/mdc/prsrel.htm The area was scheduled to re-open on April 13, but as the State Police and National Guard were reviewing security measures, there was an ‘incident’ with some trespassers who the guards were not able to catch.  So, the State Police commander has decided to keep the area completely closed. If you are interested at all in fishing this area, which is widely regarded as some of the best flyfishing in the State, please contact your state representative and state senator.

I received a reply letter from Steven Brewer (State Senator) yesterday that states he is also behind the cause and has already called for and conducted meetings regarding this issue. It’s hard to tell from the letter how much is real trying versus political posturing, but he’s been honorable in the past and I wouldn’t expect anything different now. If I remember, I’ll scan it and post it on ABPF for all to read. It looks like a form letter, so I hope he’s received many complaints about opening the area to fly fishing. Tim

Response:

. If they want to impose an extra fee for entrance to offset costs of additional security, I could probably even live with that, if it weren’t for the fact that these fees would probably remain permanently. I’ve not seen many "temporary" fees, taxes, or tolls removed in my lifetime – especially while in Massachusetts.

Few things can outlive a "temporary" tax. We should not be content to let our freedoms slip away because of the attacks on 9/11. What the past has always dictated to us is that freedoms, once lost, are difficult to regain.

While that is a true enough sentiment, the various elements which endanger various freedoms and which (sometimes at the cost of flesh & blood) ensure freedoms are so complex as to defy armchair analysis. The biggest threat to all of us and all our freedoms is inertia: let somebody else take the risk/pay the price/challenge the threat. We don’t necessarily have to become as dramatic as Thomas Jefferson’s comment about watering the tree of freedom with the blood of tyrants and patriots, but we ALL have to be willing to give up a little ‘comfort’ here and there. And I use the word ‘comfort’ to suggest we all too readily take for granted, even not realizing it, that we got where we are by spilling the blood of tyrants & patriots. The movie "The Patriot" is a little melodramatic in order to keep the plot development going for the viewers’ eyes but underneath it’s a good example of how each person must be prepared to react. We’ve all seen the marvelous photo of 4 GI’s raising Old Glory on Mount Suribaci. Three of those guys were dead by suppertime that same day. Get involved. Stay involved. If you’re worried about the cost you don’t deserve the freedoms. Sermon ends. Yours in the north Maine woods, Pete Hilton aka The Ent — A person is free only in the freedom of other persons.   W. Berry

Response:

Mass. MDC issued a press release yesterday confirming the rumors that the section of the Swift River north of Route 9 will remain closed ‘for the foreseeable future’ due to security concerns.  The full press release is available at the MDC web site at http://www.state.ma.us/mdc/prsrel.htm The area was scheduled to re-open on April 13, but as the State Police and National Guard were reviewing security measures, there was an ‘incident’ with some trespassers who the guards were not able to catch.  So, the State Police commander has decided to keep the area completely closed. If you are interested at all in fishing this area, which is widely regarded as some of the best flyfishing in the State, please contact your state representative and state senator.

So far, I’ve only heard back from Reed Hillman, who is firmly behind eliminating restrictions. I’m sure he won’t mind me quoting him in this group: "Dear Tim – I agree with you 100%.  Harassing ordinary citizens who wish to enjoy the Quabbin does not deter any potential terrorist one iota.  I will continue to try to get a common sense approach to Quabbin security adopted." Hopefully, our voices will be heard. Tim

Response:

Mass. MDC issued a press release yesterday confirming the rumors that the section of the Swift River north of Route 9 will remain closed ‘for the foreseeable future’ due to security concerns.  The full press release is available at the MDC web site at http://www.state.ma.us/mdc/prsrel.htm The area was scheduled to re-open on April 13, but as the State Police and National Guard were reviewing security measures, there was an ‘incident’ with some trespassers who the guards were not able to catch.  So, the State Police commander has decided to keep the area completely closed. If you are interested at all in fishing this area, which is widely regarded as some of the best flyfishing in the State, please contact your state representative and state senator. –Stan Gula

Response:

Mass. MDC issued a press release yesterday confirming the rumors that the section of the Swift River north of Route 9 will remain closed ‘for the foreseeable future’ due to security concerns.  The full press release is available at the MDC web site at http://www.state.ma.us/mdc/prsrel.htm

Crap. And as Stan said before, there’s no fishing allowed south of Cady Lane either, right Stan? The area was scheduled to re-open on April 13, but as the State Police and National Guard were reviewing security measures, there was an ‘incident’ with some trespassers who the guards were not able to catch.  So, the State Police commander has decided to keep the area completely closed.

What I heard was that three (probably beer drinking) kids were out for thrills to see if they could get by the security. Any truth to this? If so, we could hire these kids to check the airports nationwide. If you are interested at all in fishing this area, which is widely regarded as some of the best flyfishing in the State, please contact your state representative and state senator.

By all means. Thanks, Stan. Tim

Response:

Mass. MDC issued a press release yesterday confirming the rumors that the section of the Swift River north of Route 9 will remain closed ‘for the foreseeable future’ due to security concerns.  The full press release is available at the MDC web site at http://www.state.ma.us/mdc/prsrel.htm Crap. And as Stan said before, there’s no fishing allowed south of Cady Lane either, right Stan?

It’s allowed, but useless as there’s no fish.  I hear there’s some nice carp and eels way down in the Chicopee below Three Rivers though<g. What I heard was that three (probably beer drinking) kids were out for thrills to see if they could get by the security.

That’s pretty much the story I heard.  I don’t know about the thrillseeking part, but they must have gotten a thrill from being chased by armed Guardsmen.  All it takes is a few jerks to ruin it for everybody.  Until that happened, it looked really good for re-opening the area. –Stan

Response:

Question:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts?

Yes; what everybody else told you and this.   To get distance on the forward cast, you need to load the rod properly.   When your back cast straightens behind you (no big loops), start the forward cast a bit more slowly until the rod begins to load from the weight of the line, THEN apply all that power you’re using.   Don’t give it the full magilla all at once.   It should be a gradual acceleration, not a sharp increase to full power. Joe F.

Response:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts?

Well, first, quit stuffing your fly – it’ll make the girls (or the boys, depending on your personal choices) think you silly – and that way, you’ll not jerk it out.  Hmm…that reminds me of Blazing Saddles – "pardon me while I whip this out…," and speaking of whipping…. …yup, "cracking the whip" is timing.  Turn your head and look over your shoulder at the fly – and for Pete’s (or really, the Canadian of your choice) sake, don’t use full-hook flies to practice – try using bright, puffy whiffs – and try beginning your forward cast when the fly begins to start into the loop’s roll.  I suspect your particular distance thing is timing-related, as well, due to timing because of <oh, lord, well, let’s just say it’s likely timing-related, but without more info and seeing you cast, I’ll make that guess and leave it at that.   Just stay with it, you’ll get it – practice, practice, and oh, BTW, practice. TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Regards, Eric

Response:

…. load… <oh lord  He said it!  He said it! <G TC, R Where’s that duck dropping from the lights?

Well, you’re a lovely couple and I think you should get married. Wolfgang somewhere in the viaduct

Response:

…. load… <oh lord  He said it!  He said it! <G TC, R Where’s that duck dropping from the lights?

LOL.   In keeping with the oft-dispensed advice, I thought long and hard before hitting the send key on that one.   Thought I could slip it benignly past if I omitted all controversial adverbs. Joe F.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …. load… <oh lord  He said it!  He said it! <G TC, R Where’s that duck dropping from the lights? Well, you’re a lovely couple and I think you should get married.

Why would I wanna marry a duck, via whatever means…oh, you just want the film rights so you can sell the tape….on eBay…. TC, R fearing the ductile nature of threads…. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Wolfgang somewhere in the viaduct

Response:

Via duck, vie not a turkey or a chicken? Op

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …. load… <oh lord  He said it!  He said it! <G TC, R Where’s that duck dropping from the lights? Well, you’re a lovely couple and I think you should get married. Wolfgang somewhere in the viaduct

Response:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?

No It’s really hard to fix your problem by suggesting  possible solution with words alone.  You may want to rent a casting video from a local fly fishing shop.  If the line droops when you do try to let it completely unroll on the backcast, try aiming your backcast a little bit up and to the back and not just to the back.  HTH. Mu

Response:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts? Regards, Eric

Eric: Something that helped me alot was waiting until I felt the rod "load up" on my back stroke. I also notice this is easier to feel with a "slower" rod. Just a thought. M. Wm.

Response:

Casting next to big picture windows….the solar tinted kind that act like mirrors…can aid in watching how your line behaves while it’s behinds you. I’m just a not very sensitive guy. It seems like my hands take forever to learn something….I mean you should have seen the hook and weight contraption I had to build just to learn how to tie bloodknots.  Having acces to one of these type of windows helped me learn to cast (not that I can). Being able to see when I was supposed to be feeling my line assisted me in actually learning to feel it. john

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts? Regards, Eric

Response:

…. load…

<oh lord  He said it!  He said it! <G TC, R Where’s that duck dropping from the lights? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Joe F.

Response:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts? Regards, Eric

If the fly "cracks" when you commence your forward cast, this is a result of it breaking the sound barrier when it "goes around the bend". This will shred most flies very quickly indeed, if it does not break them off to start with. This is caused by you reversing direction, and applying forward motion to the fly, while it is still travelling backwards. The fault is indeed caused by starting the forward stroke too soon.  This is often compounded by allowing the rod to "drift" too far back, or indeed a power stroke which is too long. Too much power is also a cause of this fault. The remedy is to apply less power, stop your backast a little earlier, and wait for the line to straighten before commencing the forward stroke. Concentrate on throwing your backcast "up", instead of "back", and the fault will probably disappear.  Watching your back-cast will help here. When the line is straight out behind you, commence the forward stroke. When casting heavy flies, or greater distances, a "single haul" may be of considerable assistance. This is a pull on the line with the "line" hand, at the start of the forward stroke. TL MC

Response:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?

It means MAXIMUM POWER!!!  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.

Just kidding.  It’s bad.  You definitely need to wait.  Stick with it – maybe take a lesson – you will definitely be able to generate line speed other ways.   You’re not trying to cast like 80 feet, are you?

Response:

  I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts?

It sounds like your analysis is correct.  This is not normal and you should try and let the line straighten out behind you.  Perhaps you can add a little haul on the  forward cast to get more distance if it is a problem. I haven’t seen you cast and I am not a "casting coach," other than to some of my friends I am trying to teach, so take my advice for what it is worth. You get what you pay for and all that. . . Perhaps some of the better casters will chime in with their opinions. — Warren Findley Remove (nospamZZ) to respond via email http://www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt/

Response:

I’m relatively new to fly casting and have a question regarding casting technique.  When I transition from backcast to forecast I often hear the fly and line cracking (poping really) like a whip when the fly reverses direction to go forward.  Is this normal?  I suspect that I’m not letting the line straighten behind me before casting forward; therefore, it’s just like cracking a whip.  The problem with waiting though seems to be that the line doesn’t travel forward as far if I wait.  The problem with not waiting, I seem to be jerking the stuffing out of my flys.  Any thoughts? Regards, Eric

Response:

Question:

_____  This is a great day to begin fly tying with my new NOR-VISE.  I suppose it can be said that fly tying and fly fishing for me goes far beyond being just a hobby.  Its a study in life itself, of temperament, the various sciences that range from hydrology (OH! There he goes!  He just floated right by us!) to entomology, the science of cements for repair waders that will now always leak, to how to pack a fly box using the Dewey Decimal/Alpabetical Filing System without going crazy.  It still seems, no matter what, you always find the fly you want in the last pocket of you 18 Pocket fly fishing vest . . . just before you drop it in the river. Arrrrrrggggggggguuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!! I am one of the those wise old hoots who enjoys his reverie and I suppose it comes from years astream packed with a million memories.  I like good music which to me is anything that wasn’t dictated by the "now generation".  I go way back.  When I say ‘way back’ I mean to the eras of Holiday with her sensual, provocative voice, to Stan Kenton, Dave Brubeck, the Dorsey’s, tunes like Sing, Sing, Sing, Elk’s Parade, Lullaby of Birdland, Cole Porter’s Old Black Magic, others such as Green Eyes, (done especially by Artie Shaw) laced with some of the finest concertos by Wolfgang Amadaus Mozart.  Naturally, fly tying requires a few more essentials but music and fly tying is the dubbing for my mind. I confess also that I am a lover of Port Wines and the Tawny brands suit me fine for I do not like overly sweet wines at all but I don’t like them bitter or any that lay flat on the tongue. It seems I cannot tie without a few bird dogs (my Llewellyn Setters) under the table but it comes not with a price.  I say this because it came to me these sounds of pleasure from under my table one day.  I dropped my hand down to get that familiar lick but it was not too be, so I slide my chair back a bit and look at my dog ‘Shotgun’ who has his chin laying upon my Jungle Cock neck, all slimed and in-between his paws.  His eyes look up to the top of his head as if saying, ‘no, you can’t have it!’ Well today, warm weather has come to my canyon and the sun dresses all the buds on the trees.  My canaries are singing their song of spring over the soft music.   Things are in harmony and my glass if full.   — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _____  This is a great day to begin fly tying with my new NOR-VISE.  I suppose it can be said that fly tying and fly fishing for me goes far beyond being just a hobby.  Its a study in life itself, of temperament, the various sciences that range from hydrology (OH! There he goes!  He just floated right by us!) to entomology, the science of cements for repair waders that will now always leak, to how to pack a fly box using the Dewey Decimal/Alpabetical Filing System without going crazy.  It still seems, no matter what, you always find the fly you want in the last pocket of you 18 Pocket fly fishing vest . . . just before you drop it in the river. Arrrrrrggggggggguuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!! I am one of the those wise old hoots who enjoys his reverie and I suppose it comes from years astream packed with a million memories.  I like good music which to me is anything that wasn’t dictated by the "now generation".  I go way back.  When I say ‘way back’ I mean to the eras of Holiday with her sensual, provocative voice, to Stan Kenton, Dave Brubeck, the Dorsey’s, tunes like Sing, Sing, Sing, Elk’s Parade, Lullaby of Birdland, Cole Porter’s Old Black Magic, others such as Green Eyes, (done especially by Artie Shaw) laced with some of the finest concertos by Wolfgang Amadaus Mozart.  Naturally, fly tying requires a few more essentials but music and fly tying is the dubbing for my mind. I confess also that I am a lover of Port Wines and the Tawny brands suit me fine for I do not like overly sweet wines at all but I don’t like them bitter or any that lay flat on the tongue. It seems I cannot tie without a few bird dogs (my Llewellyn Setters) under the table but it comes not with a price.  I say this because it came to me these sounds of pleasure from under my table one day.  I dropped my hand down to get that familiar lick but it was not too be, so I slide my chair back a bit and look at my dog ‘Shotgun’ who has his chin laying upon my Jungle Cock neck, all slimed and in-between his paws.  His eyes look up to the top of his head as if saying, ‘no, you can’t have it!’ Well today, warm weather has come to my canyon and the sun dresses all the buds on the trees.  My canaries are singing their song of spring over the soft music. Things are in harmony and my glass is full. — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

– (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _____  This is a great day to begin fly tying with my new NOR-VISE.  I suppose it can be said that fly tying and fly fishing for me goes far beyond being just a hobby.  Its a study in life itself, of temperament, the various sciences that range from hydrology (OH! There he goes!  He just floated right by us!) to entomology, the science of cements for repair waders that will now always leak, to how to pack a fly box using the Dewey Decimal/Alpabetical Filing System without going crazy.  It still seems, no matter what, you always find the fly you want in the last pocket of your 18 Pocket fly fishing vest . . . just before you drop it in the river. Arrrrrrggggggggguuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!! I am one of the those wise old hoots who enjoys his reverie and I suppose it comes from years astream packed with a million memories.  I like good music which to me is anything that wasn’t dictated by the "now generation".  I go way back.  When I say ‘way back’ I mean to the eras of Holiday with her sensual, provocative voice, to Stan Kenton, Dave Brubeck, the Dorsey’s, tunes like Sing, Sing, Sing, Elk’s Parade, Lullaby of Birdland, Cole Porter’s Old Black Magic, others such as Green Eyes, (done especially by Artie Shaw) laced with some of the finest concertos by Wolfgang Amadaus Mozart.  Naturally, fly tying requires a few more essentials but music and fly tying is the dubbing for my mind. I confess also that I am a lover of Port Wines and the Tawny brands suit me fine for I do not like overly sweet wines at all but I don’t like them bitter or any that lay flat on the tongue. It seems I cannot tie without a few bird dogs (my Llewellyn Setters) under the table but it comes not without a price.  I say this because it came to me these sounds of pleasure from under my table one day.  I dropped my hand down to get that familiar lick but it was not too be, so I slide my chair back a bit and look at my dog ‘Shotgun’ who has his chin laying upon my Jungle Cock neck, all slimed and in-between his paws.  His eyes look up to the top of his head as if saying, ‘no, you can’t have it!’ Well today, warm weather has come to my canyon and the sun dresses all the buds on the trees.  My canaries are singing their song of spring over the soft music. Things are in harmony and my glass if full. — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

– (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

Question:

The thread on polarized sun glasses made me think of a more basic question: Why are some people so much better than me at spotting fish? With my glasses on, my vision is measurably as good as anyone’s.  And the situation I describe below even applies to my youth when my vision was, by all tests, perfect. Still, I’ve been on the stream and had certain keen eyed fishing partners point out fish I did not detect.  Sometimes I cannot see them even after they are pointed out, but without fail, an experiment to disturb the fish always results in seeing it dart away.  Or, to more succinctly prove the point, caught!  Very frustrating. Are the eyes of my friends especially keen or are there techniques for seeing fish I just haven’t picked up.  Anybody out there got pointers for spotting fish, assuming one already knows where to look, is using polarized glasses and has 20/20 vision. —                                                       -dnc-

Response:

Why are some people so much better than me at spotting fish?

The only way I know of to improve your spotting is simply to spend as much time as possible on a stream, spotting fish.  It is a very subtle art, much like nymph fishing, and your score will improve with practice and experience. One tip, rather than look for a whole fish, look for parts, (i.e. a white edged fin, etc.) or movement.  It is very similar in that respect to spotting deer in the woods. Tight lines!! George

Response:

The thread on polarized sun glasses made me think of a more basic question: Why are some people so much better than me at spotting fish?

There is no doubt in my mind that various brains process signal in various ways.  That is why some people made better radar or sonar operators than others.  Someone once used my ham station.  While listening to noise on the speaker he mentioned that he heard someone (code transmission) coming in loud and clear.  I heard only noise.  With careful listening, I was able to tell that there were some slight changes to the character of the noise.  It was not enough to be of help to me.  I have no idea how much improvement can be obtained from training.  The differences may well be innate. By the way, the US Navy will no longer require radio operaters to be proficient at Morse code. Bill Buchman

Response:

Why are some people so much better than me at spotting fish? The only way I know of to improve your spotting is simply to spend as much time as possible on a stream, spotting fish.  It is a very subtle art, much like nymph fishing, and your score will improve with practice and experience. One tip, rather than look for a whole fish, look for parts, (i.e. a white edged fin, etc.) or movement.  It is very similar in that respect to spotting deer in the woods.

I agree with George that sitting and watching is the technique. It is the best fishing strategy anyway to sit and observe a pool or riffle for five or ten minutes before you approach or wade. Over a short period of time you can eventually see fish that you won’t see on first glance. Time lets you put together a few signals that individually are barely noticeable but can add up to a clear location of a feeding fish. Look in places where trout will be – places of slower flow where they relax but where they can see faster flow. Look for shadows that shift slightly across the stream. Normal shadows from current on the surface will only move straight downstream. It is a matter of observing not the details you are seeing but the repeating patterns of movement, then when some shadow or flash occurs that is not part of the repeating pattern, there is your fish. A tail or fin of a holding fish can sometimes be picked out among rocks or under logs but it is much easier to see a shadow shift slightly then back as a fish takes a nymph. In riffles and eddies, sit a bit and you’ll notice that small flat glassy sections of surface will be mixed with the rippled surface. These are like moving portholes into the depths, and if you watch them move downstream you can see the bottom clearly if just for a second. And if you’re steelhead fishing, look for blue logs. Mark Vinsel www.vinsel.com

Response:

I could not say it any better than Mark has just mentioned.  Steamside experience is the only way to succeed- look for the flashes or movement. Sage

        here’s an exception-that-proves-the-rule story:  couple years ago, my wife and i took a trip to bonaire (aruba, bonaire, curacao), and i was able to find a bonefish guide, who took us to vast white bottomed salt flats that were thick with small, schooling bones. invariably, my wife would see fish before i could; on a couple of occasions, she called em out before the guide.  he was amazed, as i was.  she had never been bonefishing before.  her eye just clicked with the image, i guess. I think that you just pointed out the rule whereas Mar pointed out the exception.  There a limit to just how much improvement you can get by practice.  There are many basketball players who are willing to work harder than Michael Jordan or violinist who will work harder than Itzhak Perleman (spelling?). (This is not to say that the do not work hard at their craft.)  Nevertheless, in spite of this effort, these people will just not ever be even close in performance.  The navy investigated this in the search for good sonar operators. Wayne’s wife just happens to be talented at seeing bonefish.  With practice, she may become much better.  You have to start with the talent. Bill Buchman

Response:

….Thirdly, I think some people are out more and know where they should be

looking.  Good Polarized glasses will help….Bill Kiene< Bill’s right, I think. Spotting fish is an acquired art (skill) that comes with time on the water, and distinct, concentrated effort. Dennis Smith Loveland, CO

Response:

I could not say it any better than Mark has just mentioned.  Steamside experience is the only way to succeed- look for the flashes or movement. Sage

        here’s an exception-that-proves-the-rule story:  couple years ago, my wife and i took a trip to bonaire (aruba, bonaire, curacao), and i was able to find a bonefish guide, who took us to vast white bottomed salt flats that were thick with small, schooling bones. invariably, my wife would see fish before i could; on a couple of occasions, she called em out before the guide.  he was amazed, as i was.  she had never been bonefishing before.  her eye just clicked with the image, i guess.         a. wayne harrison

Response:

I could not say it any better than Mark has just mentioned.  Steamside experience is the only way to succeed- look for the flashes or movement. Sage

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -The thread on polarized sun glasses made me think of a more basic question: Why are some people so much better than me at spotting fish? With my glasses on, my vision is measurably as good as anyone’s.  And the situation I describe below even applies to my youth when my vision was, by all tests, perfect. Still, I’ve been on the stream and had certain keen eyed fishing partners point out fish I did not detect.  Sometimes I cannot see them even after they are pointed out, but without fail, an experiment to disturb the fish always results in seeing it dart away.  Or, to more succinctly prove the point, caught!  Very frustrating. Are the eyes of my friends especially keen or are there techniques for seeing fish I just haven’t picked up.  Anybody out there got pointers for spotting fish, assuming one already knows where to look, is using polarized glasses and has 20/20 vision. —                                                      -dnc-

Hi DN, Many of us guys are color blind to some degree. This makes it harder to spot fish. Secondly, some people are outside and are use to focusing at longer distances. Thirdly, I think some people are out more and know where they should be looking.  Good Polarized glasses will help. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY www.kiene.com

Response:

Question:

Just getting back into flyfishing after a 15 year hiatus (sorry, puberty, girls, and college distracted me) and am having some major problems with fly placement.  I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice? 1) I am fairly proficient at casting a light fly (dries, nymphs, wets), but when attempting to cast a heavier fly such as a weighted stone fly imitation, or a muddler I cannot get complete extension of the line on my back or forward cast. Instead the fly and leader sort of flop around on the end of the line with no real sense of direction. I use a fairly short 4 piece Orvis backpacking rod probably 6 1/2 -7 feet in length.  Could that be part of the problem? 2) I often develop small knots in my leader 2-4 inches behind the fly when casting.  What am I doing wrong?  Should I be concerned about them? 3)  Lose a lot of flies due to poor knots during the cast.  I tie them correctly, but think I am choosing the wrong knots for the job.  Any recommendations for what knots to use when attaching a fly?  Thankfully I am a good tyer so this doesn’t become that expensive. 4) Is there a fly fishing FAQ that I can refer to about line weights, types, and uses or rod types.   I own a very nice rod, but it was given to me by my grandfather so I do not know anything about it. How do I find out about its action, weight, what type of line to use with it, etc? Thanks in advance Tom Rhindress Williamstown, MA

Response:

Just getting back into flyfishing after a 15 year hiatus (sorry,

puberty, girls, and college distracted me) and am having some major problems with fly placement.   I was wondering if anyone could give me

some advice? 1) I am fairly proficient at casting a light fly (dries, nymphs, wets), but when attempting to cast a heavier fly such as a weighted stone fly imitation, or a muddler I cannot get complete extension of the line on my back or forward cast. Instead the fly and leader sort of flop around on the end of the line

with no real sense of direction. I use a fairly short 4 piece Orvis backpacking rod probably 6 1/2 -7

feet in length.  Could that be part of the problem? 2) I often develop small knots in my leader 2-4 inches behind the fly when casting.  What am I doing wrong?  Should I be concerned about them? 3)  Lose a lot of flies due to poor knots during the cast.  I tie them correctly, but think I am choosing the wrong knots for the job. Anyrecommendations for what knots to use when attaching a fly? Thankfully I am a good tyer so this doesn’t become that expensive. 4) Is there a fly fishing FAQ that I can refer to about line weights,

types, and uses or rod types.   I own a very nice rod, but it was given to me by my grandfather so I do

not know anything about it. How do I find out about its action, weight, what type of line to use

with it, etc? Tom, likely both your back cast and your forward cast lack power because of two things…. one is you use entirely too much wrist…. tie a hanky around your wrist and the rod butt to remind you to use more forearm and less wrist… second you are  making all your power stroke too evenly applied over the cast….  most all of the power should be applied at the very end of the stroke with a very staccato speed up and stop… do not turn the line over until the very end…. A 3rd idea is to apply a short sharp haul with the line hand exactly at the time of the power application…..  then a 4th cheating trick is to give the line a short tug exactly as the fly lands…. good luck… Alan E. Hoover Anglers’ Rest Powhatan, Va        *the trout teach many, lessons*

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just getting back into flyfishing after a 15 year hiatus (sorry, puberty, girls, and college distracted me) and am having some major problems with fly placement.  I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice? 1) I am fairly proficient at casting a light fly (dries, nymphs, wets), but when attempting to cast a heavier fly such as a weighted stone fly imitation, or a muddler I cannot get complete extension of the line on my back or forward cast. Instead the fly and leader sort of flop around on the end of the line with no real sense of direction. I use a fairly short 4 piece Orvis backpacking rod probably 6 1/2 -7 feet in length.  Could that be part of the problem?

Definitely:  any fly over a gramme or two completely upsets classical fly dynamics.  Casting style needs to be different and a long rod helps. 2) I often develop small knots in my leader 2-4 inches behind the fly when casting.  What am I doing wrong?  Should I be concerned about them?

Wind knots should be avoided because they weaken the tippet and will lose you fish.  Poor casting technique is the commonest cause.  Try making your forward and backcast strokes a few degrees apart in the vertical plane (see instructional books by Lefty Kreh or Lee Wulff.) 3)  Lose a lot of flies due to poor knots during the cast.  I tie them correctly, but think I am choosing the wrong knots for the job.  Any recommendations for what knots to use when attaching a fly?  Thankfully I am a good tyer so this doesn’t become that expensive.

Can’t beat the classic turle knot (double turle for salmon.) 4) Is there a fly fishing FAQ that I can refer to about line weights, types, and uses or rod types.  

No, but plenty in the library. I own a very nice rod, but it was given to me by my grandfather so I do not know anything about it.

If this is a cane rod, several URLs for either rod maintenance or used cane rod sales may be helpful.  Or you can post here any markings, brand name etc.  Try http://www.gorp.com/bamboo.html or http://www.cybercom.net/~bconner/rod.html — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

Response:

Question:

Heading to B.C. but I don’t know where to go.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  I’m a stream fisherman so point me in the right direction.

BC is mostly lake fishing, esp Kamloops area.  However, there is excellent stream fishing at Skagit River (C&R only) near Hope also steelhead/salmon at Chilliwack River. — The views expressed are my own and does not represent those of my employer.

Response:

Heading to B.C. but I don’t know where to go.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  I’m a stream fisherman so point me in the right direction.

From you monniker you might like to try and get hold of Kelly Davison 11891 Charrington Maple Ridge BC 604 467 6406 He guided me a couple of years back in September/October and I lost count of the bright sea run cuts we landed – mostly 2lb or so – but up to about 4lb. All taken on an olive marabou/mylar minnow pattern on a l/s size 8. My first experience with cuts – and one of the best days fishing ever! I also heard that you can beach cast for them with a fly rod from below College Park – but didn’t have the time to get down there. Tight lines — Martin Kurrein 199 Strand London WC2R 1DR http://www.mkurrein.co.uk/

Response:

Heading to B.C. but I don’t know where to go.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  I’m a stream fisherman so point me in the right direction.

Try the Web page for Hansen’s in Vancouver (I could find the address somewhere if you can’t).  They gave me a greta trip for early July – lake fishing with damsel flies.  But they could give you a completely different suggestion for the time you are going.

Response:

Heading to B.C. but I don’t know where to go.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  I’m a stream fisherman so point me in the right direction.

Response:

Question:

writes: The  Herter’s catalog was the best reading material while siiting on the John  I have found. I still have some of his instruction manuals; i.e. How to stay  married to a bitch, The bull cookbook, The Herter’s guide manual and The  Herter’s Book of Fly and Lure Construction.. Also I have a friend who is still using a #7 vise and a Herter’s Bamboo Planing Jig. Too bad they went out of business. Luck. Ja

I was talking with my dad about a need for a good fishing catalog and he is said that he’s still disappointed that he can’t get a new Herter’s Catalog. "…can’t believe they went out of business. The Netcraft Catalog is about the closest thing left!" Don

Response:

: The  Herter’s catalog was the best reading material while siiting on the : John  I have found. I still have some of his instruction manuals; i.e. How : to stay  married to a bitch, The bull cookbook, The Herter’s guide manual : and The  Herter’s Book of Fly and Lure Construction.. Also I have a friend : who is still using a #7 vise and a Herter’s Bamboo Planing Jig. Too bad : they went out of business. Luck. Jack    I still have my parka purchased from them in 1972. The ad used to    make the sale was terrific – showed a photo of Dr so and so using    Herter’s prime northern goose down parka on his Arctic expedition.    BTW, the parka is great.    I miss them …….

Response:

As I understand it, Herter’s went out of business because they were allegedly involved in some "criminal activity." Problems with IRS and ATF. Say it aint So, George. –Doug Easton Tight Lines and Empty Creels

Response:

I received e-mail that stated Herter’s catalogue can be obtained by calling 800-654-3825. I do not know whether this is a new company or what but I intend to call the number and see. Prehaps ur dad is interested. Stretched leaders. Jack.

Response:

I am planning to get up to the Salmon River in NY in the next few days and I am wondering what conditions are like up there now.  Any Browns or Steelhead in the river?  Water levels – I heard it was high…has it dropped any?  I’d really appreciate an E-Mail or a posting.

Response:

hell i even bought skis from that catalog…it was great fun to leaf thru…. craig

Response:

Bob, Check out the following URL for exellent up to date info: http://www.maine.com:80/fish-ny/ Jim Walker will help you out with very near term conditions if you ask nicely. (and mail him 10 bucks) Right Jim? Bill Althoff

Response:

Just a curiosity… Who all out there cut their fly tying teeth on George Leonard Herter’s big thick yellow book (you know the one…It’s where geo. said he invented all the fly patterns currently in use…:)) and if you did, which of the following statements rings more true with you: a) George’s book set me back twenty years in my growth as a fly tyer… b) This was the best book of it’s day on the subject, and got me off to a good start… Or feel free to fall in the middle somewhere with your own statement… An informal survey..

Response:

The  Herter’s catalog was the best reading material while siiting on the John  I have found. I still have some of his instruction manuals; i.e. How to stay  married to a bitch, The bull cookbook, The Herter’s guide manual and The  Herter’s Book of Fly and Lure Construction.. Also I have a friend who is still using a #7 vise and a Herter’s Bamboo Planing Jig. Too bad they went out of business. Luck. Jack

Response:

The  Herter’s catalog was the best reading material while siiting on the John  I have found. I still have some of his instruction manuals; i.e. How to stay  married to a bitch, The bull cookbook, The Herter’s guide manual and The  Herter’s Book of Fly and Lure Construction.. Also I have a friend who is still using a #7 vise and a Herter’s Bamboo Planing Jig. Too bad they went out of business. Luck. Jack Not too many folks could disagree with your first statement Jack, but I can disagree with your second one!!  Just ordered a catalog last week from their 800 number!!!!  What was that? You sure wish that guy woulda’ posted the damn number…..okay, Jack….here it is!!!                         800-654-3825 Now keep in mind, your proctologist will tell you that it’s not good to spend too much time sitting on the commode reading, you should just take care of business and move on……well F**K HIM!!! If he’s got time to meddle in other peoples business, he’s not spendin’ enuff time fishin" !!!!! Larry #:)#

Response:

Question:

I’m hoping someone out there can help me convert a Medalist 1494 over to work for a left-handed person. I was lead to believe it possible. The reel didn’t come with any instructions. Do I just flip over the plastic ring that the drag rubs against? The two sides have a different # of click grooves on each side but this does seem to be the only way to reverse the drag. Do I also move the line guides? If anyone was a telephone # for Pflueger/Shakespeare please post. Thanks Don B.

Response:

I’m hoping someone out there can help me convert a Medalist 1494 over to work for a left-handed person. I was lead to believe it possible. The reel didn’t come with any instructions. Do I just flip over the plastic ring that the drag rubs against? The two sides have a different # of click grooves on each side but this does seem to be the only way to reverse the drag. Do I also move the line guides? If anyone was a telephone # for Pflueger/Shakespeare please post. Thanks Don B.

Yup, just flip that litle plastic ring over and you’re in business. You can also reverse the line guide, but to me it’s a pain in the butt so I usually don’t bother (there’s always ONE little screw that won’t budge )

Response:

Yes, just take out the two small screws (don’t lose them!), and turn over the disc.  There is a spring loaded gizzy that will pop out when you remove the disc.  So, lift it slowly.  Turn the disc over, postion over the screw holes, and tighten.  Changing the line guard is difficult, but I believe it is necessary.  The guard is there for a purpose, to protect the main body of the reel, and it really doesn’t take too long.  Good luck.  Dave Kumlien, Montana Troutfitters Orvis Shop, Bozeman, MT

Response:

I had tried and failed to convert my reel so I did the only reasonable thing, I went to the local fly shop and and asked for help.  I’ve been fly fishing for only one year, but I have found that the fellows who run fly shops are extremely helpful.  Of course, you will want to return the favor, especially if it was free, and buy a few flies — even if you don’t need any! Bob Jones

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(Spin4trout) says: I’m hoping someone out there can help me convert a Medalist 1494 over to work for a left-handed person. I was lead to believe it possible. The reel didn’t come with any instructions.

Has there been a change in the way Mealists are fabricated?  I thought that the always came for left-handed people.  I have always changed to right hand operation.  That is, I hold the rod in my right hand for casting, line in my left hand, and when it comes to actually winding it in, doing so with my left hand.  I do not switch hands between casting and winding. Way back when, Neal Taylor mentioned that, by happenstance, the first two reel makers were left handed and that is why actual left-handed reels are called right-handed. Further edification will be appreciated.

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(BillyFish) writes: Has there been a change in the way Mealists are fabricated?  I thought that the always came for left-handed people.  I have always changed to right hand operation.  That is, I hold the rod in my right hand for casting, line in my left hand, and when it comes to actually winding it in, doing so with my left hand.  I do not switch hands between casting and winding.

Right hand wind means you turn the handle with your right hand.  Left hand retrieve means you retrieve with your left hand.  The traditional way for a right hander to fish was to cast with the right hand, then switch the rod to the left hand and retrieve with the right hand also.  Now most right handers retrieve with their left hand probably because they either spincast first.  It doesn’t really matter, just different strokes for different folks.                                                              Dan Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

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writes: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (BillyFish) writes: Has there been a change in the way Mealists are fabricated?  I thought that the always came for left-handed people.  I have always changed to right hand operation.  That is, I hold the rod in my right hand for casting, line in my left hand, and when it comes to actually winding it in, doing so with my left hand.  I do not switch hands between casting and winding. Right hand wind means you turn the handle with your right hand.  Left hand retrieve means you retrieve with your left hand.  The traditional way for a right hander to fish was to cast with the right hand, then switch the rod to the left hand and retrieve with the right hand also.  Now most right handers retrieve with their left hand probably because they either spincast first.  It doesn’t really matter, just different strokes for different folks.                                                             Dan Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

Thanks for the help from everyone. I should have said I had a USED reel that needed to be un-converted. Like Dan said above I got started with spinning and I don’t switch hands. Just lucky to be left-handed and glad you righties flip-flop hands. I now have the reel back to "normal". I still wonder why they made the two sides with different hole patterns?   Oh, well. Life’s full of questions. Is there left-handed whirling disease? Or do all the fish swin circles in the same direction? <G PLEASE no responses to that one. Don B.

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(Spin4trout) writes: I now have the reel back to "normal". I still wonder why they made the two sides with different hole patterns?  

Hey Don, The hole patterns are different because Pflueger never originally expected the reel to be converted to left hand retrieve.  Left hand retrieve works ok on the converted reel, but the click sounds funny. The Japanese are manufacturing the Pflueger now and it’s one of the few things they don’t do well.  Still works, but the old US models work better, albeit without an exposed rim.                                                    Dan

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Question:

Does anyone know if you can fly to Karluk and just camp on the beach there and fish?  There is a lodge there; I wonder if they have any monopoly on fishing in the Karluk river. This is on the southwest coast of Kodiak Island, in Alaska. Appreciate any feedback anyone can give.  

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I would always be careful about camping on the beach in any location where there are substantial numbers of brown bears.  You can fly into Brooks River, for example, and camp in a USFS camp site as well as stay at the lodge.  But in the camp site, just a little way off the beach, all the food has to be cached.  And all the fish have to be cleaned in a single building, far away from the camp site. I’d check with locals on the available faciltiies at Karluk river.

04:57:08 GMT – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Does anyone know if you can fly to Karluk and just camp on the beach there and fish?  There is a lodge there; I wonder if they have any monopoly on fishing in the Karluk river.

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| | Does anyone know if you can fly to Karluk and just camp on the beach | there and fish?  There is a lodge there; I wonder if they have any | monopoly on fishing in the Karluk river. | Hello, I was on the Karluk for a week this fall. Drifted to the mouth and camped on the beach. There are bears (big bears !) and you do need to be careful. Limited cabins (primitive) are availble at Portage. The real monopoly if you want to call it that is access. Very interesting and productive river. Regards, Jeff

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