Question:

I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day. Can anybody recommend a good Steelhead river and hopefully a guide within a 2-3 hour drive of Portland Oregon. Either Oregon or Washington destinations are fine althought I was, for whatever reason, leaning towards Washington rivers. TIA, Randy

Response:

I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day.

go to www.ifish.net and read the latest reports. There are a number of guides listed there and all have good reputations. I can personally speak to the fact that Dave Johnson is one of the finest people, as well as being a guide, that you will ever have the pleasure of fishing with. Cos

Response:

Give Kaufmann’s a try… www.kman.com Clark

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day. Can anybody recommend a good Steelhead river and hopefully a guide within a 2-3 hour drive of Portland Oregon. Either Oregon or Washington destinations are fine althought I was, for whatever reason, leaning towards Washington rivers. TIA, Randy

Response:

I’d go to the lower  Deschutes or The Klickitat.  I knew people who were catching fish in the Lewis river last week but access to it is not easy. The Wilson is a short drive but "fair" at the moment.  It could change any time with rain.   There’s supposed to be fish (samon and steelhead )in Eagle Creek just east of Portland, bring your own rock to stand on.  When you get to town call Kauffmans, Rivercity flyshop or Fishermans Marine Supply.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day. Can anybody recommend a good Steelhead river and hopefully a guide within a 2-3 hour drive of Portland Oregon. Either Oregon or Washington destinations are fine althought I was, for whatever reason, leaning towards Washington rivers. TIA, Randy

Response:

If you plan to fish the Deschuttes, Sandy, Salmon or Clackamas you could contact either Kaufmann’s Streamborn in Tigard or The FlyFishing Shop in Welches. guy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day. Can anybody recommend a good Steelhead river and hopefully a guide within a 2-3 hour drive of Portland Oregon. Either Oregon or Washington destinations are fine althought I was, for whatever reason, leaning towards Washington rivers. TIA, Randy

Response:

I took a river class from Mark Bachman and it was a great experience.  He has to be one of the most patient guides to teach spey casting.  Good thing I was not chewing gum at the same time.  I recommend any guide affiliated with the Welches shop.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you plan to fish the Deschuttes, Sandy, Salmon or Clackamas you could contact either Kaufmann’s Streamborn in Tigard or The FlyFishing Shop in Welches. guy I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day. Can anybody recommend a good Steelhead river and hopefully a guide within a 2-3 hour drive of Portland Oregon. Either Oregon or Washington destinations are fine althought I was, for whatever reason, leaning towards Washington rivers. TIA, Randy

Response:

I also had a great trip from the shop with Brian Silvey in July.  Caught one steelhead and many trout.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I took a river class from Mark Bachman and it was a great experience.  He has to be one of the most patient guides to teach spey casting.  Good thing I was not chewing gum at the same time.  I recommend any guide affiliated with the Welches shop. If you plan to fish the Deschuttes, Sandy, Salmon or Clackamas you could contact either Kaufmann’s Streamborn in Tigard or The FlyFishing Shop in Welches. guy I’m going to be in Portland for a couple of days but will probably only be able to fish one full day. Can anybody recommend a good Steelhead river and hopefully a guide within a 2-3 hour drive of Portland Oregon. Either Oregon or Washington destinations are fine althought I was, for whatever reason, leaning towards Washington rivers. TIA, Randy

Response:

Question:

Okay, a year ago June I went off across Wisconsin and picked up my flying partner at a teeny strip (Cumberland, KUBE) near her cabin so we could go to dinner at an even teenier strip in an airpark.  Only thing better than the food is the opportunity to land in the center of the golf course, with all the fancy summer homes circled around it.   We knew a big front was due through, but blithely disregarded the chance of enormous thunderstorms.  Just to show us we’re not so smart, it came through with perfectly clear skies, and winds that went up and up and up.  We thought we were fine till we almost landed 30 miles away at another strip with an actual town around it. Heck of a tailwind.   Zeroed in on the right place, a dim little runway surounded by too much fast-moving atmosphere. Real dark now.  We can feel the wind now, really pushy and shoving us away from the airport.  I fret aloud that she’ll be high on final, but it takes forever to get to the end of the runway. We’re flying twice as far "against the current" with this wind. By the time we reach short final approach, we’re at the right altitude but then things get intense.      We probably had the flash at the same time: we’re getting shaken around like beans in a can by now, it’s real dark on the ground, and we’re aloft in a tiny mechanical contrivance with the daunting – and basically unrefusable – task of getting it to touch the ground in exactly the right spot at a high speed despite the forces of nature arrayed against us.      The quartering right crosswind is nasty, the narrow runway seems to come up fast at the end, and I never quit talking.  "Remember, aileron right to keep it over the runway.  You can use rudder to kick it straight just before touchdown."  She’s got her hands full with altimeter, speed, closing in on the numbers. I’m her other brain, her other pair of eyes, her reassurance.        "Get more right.  I’m watching it.  More, you can’t go too far right, just keep heading right. It’s going to shove you right off the runway left onto the grass otherwise. More right.  That’s very good."        We finally land, level and straight, with the baby-buggy skittering of wheels you can’t avoid when you’re swooshing forward and the Wind Giants are shoving you sideways.  I assure her it was nicer than many of my no-wind landings.     Back-taxiing to the hangars, she asks, "were you worried?"  I can honestly say, since we were too busy to freak out to the degree appropriate to the situation, that I was not.     "I knew I could bully you off to the right enough, and you took care of the rest."

Response:

That’s as good a story as I’ve read. Husband and Wife teamwork…. There’s just something about that signifigant other, that when they say "fly the plane", it just makes it make sense and so much easier. Always remember, only three things to do in any emergency situation: "fly the plane, fly the plane and fly the plane".

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Okay, a year ago June I went off across Wisconsin and picked up my flying partner at a teeny strip (Cumberland, KUBE) near her cabin so we could go to dinner at an even teenier strip in an airpark.  Only thing better than the food is the opportunity to land in the center of the golf course, with all the fancy summer homes circled around it. We knew a big front was due through, but blithely disregarded the chance of enormous thunderstorms.  Just to show us we’re not so smart, it came through with perfectly clear skies, and winds that went up and up and up.  We thought we were fine till we almost landed 30 miles away at another strip with an actual town around it. Heck of a tailwind. Zeroed in on the right place, a dim little runway surounded by too much fast-moving atmosphere. Real dark now.  We can feel the wind now, really pushy and shoving us away from the airport.  I fret aloud that she’ll be high on final, but it takes forever to get to the end of the runway. We’re flying twice as far "against the current" with this wind. By the time we reach short final approach, we’re at the right altitude but then things get intense.      We probably had the flash at the same time: we’re getting shaken around like beans in a can by now, it’s real dark on the ground, and we’re aloft in a tiny mechanical contrivance with the daunting – and basically unrefusable – task of getting it to touch the ground in exactly the right spot at a high speed despite the forces of nature arrayed against us.      The quartering right crosswind is nasty, the narrow runway seems to come up fast at the end, and I never quit talking.  "Remember, aileron right to keep it over the runway.  You can use rudder to kick it straight just before touchdown."  She’s got her hands full with altimeter, speed, closing in on the numbers. I’m her other brain, her other pair of eyes, her reassurance.      "Get more right.  I’m watching it.  More, you can’t go too far right, just keep heading right. It’s going to shove you right off the runway left onto the grass otherwise. More right.  That’s very good."      We finally land, level and straight, with the baby-buggy skittering of wheels you can’t avoid when you’re swooshing forward and the Wind Giants are shoving you sideways.  I assure her it was nicer than many of my no-wind landings.     Back-taxiing to the hangars, she asks, "were you worried?"  I can honestly say, since we were too busy to freak out to the degree appropriate to the situation, that I was not.     "I knew I could bully you off to the right enough, and you took care of the rest."

Response:

Great story thanx. BTW, any chance you could post those photos up somewhere we could see them? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is my favorite story from my short bush flying career: Really thick haze was unusual in northeastern Ontario.  It was so bad that June afternoon in 1990 that I had decided against the trip from Ramsey Lake in Sudbury,  Ont., our base, to pick up two guys due to come out of a camp on the Spanish River, about an 80 mile trip.  The vis was just too low, less than 1/2 mile into sun, and Bob, my boss and the owner of Ramsey Airways, was pretty good about not pushing me into conditions I wasn’t ready for, being a new bush pilot (by the end of the season I was flying in just about anything).  The two guys that were waiting for me were local and could stand to spend an extra night in their cabin. A mild cold front cleared out the haze overnight and next morning was one of those blindingly blue razor horizon days you get in the "Near North" when free of the influence of the Great Lakes to the south.  Bob and I discussed the location of the camp and the fact that the useable area of the river was less than 3000 ft long, short for a Cessna 180 on floats with a load.  I decided that the space was adequate but would take a minimum amount of fuel (just enough for the round trip plus 10 gal) to keep the load down. The C-180 was running fine except for a mystery oil leak that seemed to be coming from a pushod tube.  It was a ‘76 model, indistinguishable from a 185, and was in beautiful shape. By 9 am I was cruising northwest from Subury at a couple of thousand feet in silky smooth air, watching the boreal forest slide under the floats, and keeping an eye out for a moose.  Mornings like that made me think, "I can’t believe I’m getting paid to do this" (the catch: the pay for newbies is effectively minimum wage, hence only one season at it). It was no problem getting into the stretch of river where the cabin was, and soon I was at the dock loading the gear of my two passengers.  On the way out I made sure that I used every foot of available river.  The take-off run was between a bend and some rapids and was uneventful. I’d always heard about things going wrong with engines right after the first power change after take off.  Sure enough, just after setting up 24 square for the climb, there started a once per rev beat.  A funny little vibration. After shoving my heart back down my throat and pulling carb heat, I started to assess things, turning to follow the river to a lake a couple of miles south.  Once over the lake I relaxed a bit, circling over it, and starting playing with the engine controls trying to figure out what it was.   The vibration changed with rpm, and playing with mags, carb heat and mixture had no effect.  Oil pressure and temp was fine.  The vibration was too subtle to be a chunk of prop tip missing or anything like that. Decision time came after I examined the power setting and compared it to the airplane’s performance.  By now I was 24 square, flying at 90 kts, and NOT CLIMBING.  Something internal was "holding the engine back" and the vibration was very slowly getting worse. I chopped power, announced to my surprised seat mate, "I’m putting it down; something’s not right." and circled down to land on Lebel Lake, basically a widening of the Spanish River.   Couldn’t get anybody on the unicom on the way down. An outfitter used the lake as part of his camp network and this lake had a nice dock, with boats, and the end of a trail leading to another lake. Pulled up, docked, tied up and looked at the airplane, which had oil all down the lower left side and belly.  Hmmmm.  Removed the top cowl… YIKES! The left forward most cylinder was held on with only one top stud!  The other 3 top ones had broken off, and the bottom ones were loose, which is why the top ones failed.  The oil was coming from the broken seal at the base flange of the cylinder (which was the "mystery oil leak").  The cylinder was able to wobble up and down, which was the cause of the vibration and was not far away from popping right off. Well, how to get outta there… Sent the two guys fishing in one of the boats to keep them occupied.  Gotta get someone on the radio.   Pan calls on 122.8 got nothing.  So I decided to do a Pan call on 121.5.  "PAN PAN PAN… Golf Papa Victor Zulu, any aircraft."  After a while of this, came the surprise response; "Papa Victor Zulu, this is Canadian (airlines) Flight 435.  Can we be of assistance?" It took about 15 minutes to relay the information, the name of the lake, etc. The airliner seemed to be some distance away and couldn’t hear me very clearly, so I had to repeat instructions, but eventually he was able to get enough information to raise Ramsey Base on unicom and talk to my boss, telling him that I was on Lebel Lake with unknown difficulties but everybody was ok.  The airline then relayed back to me that Bob would be out with the Beaver after dropping off another load at a nearby lodge. After lunch I could hear the guttural throb of the 985 in the distance and called Bob on 122.8.  He said, "I got some gas for ya".  He thought I’d decided not to fly back because of not enough fuel.  "I got lotsa gas Bob." "What’s wrong?"  "Cylinder coming off."   "Ohhh shhhhhh—t" (definitely not radio protocol, but under the circumstances…). Anyway, we loaded the two guys and their gear in the Beaver, secured the 180 to the shoreline beside the dock, and off we went.  I went with a mechanic the next day in his personal aircraft and we removed the engine, firewall forward, right there, using a come-along and a bipod made from pine poles. I photographed the whole thing.  That was fun, in spite of the blackflies. Being on an uninhabited lake in the middle of nowhere is one of the most peaceful experiences I’ve ever had.  Hauled the O-470 out in the Ramsey Airways Beaver that afternoon, after an interesting and entertaining 2 hours trying to get it in the Beaver’s cabin. Three weeks later the engine was overhauled and we flew in back in and reinstalled it.  The first flight out was a bit of a nail biter. Luckily, no more problems for the remaining 400 hours I flew for rest of that summer of 1990, probably the most fun summer of my life. John Kahn — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

A really great story – the commercial magazines should print such quality! This is my favorite story from my short bush flying career:

<snip You guys are gonna put ‘Flying’ out of businesss if you keep this up! Mark Hickey

Response:

A really great story – the commercial magazines should print such quality! This is my favorite story from my short bush flying career: <snip You guys are gonna put ‘Flying’ out of businesss if you keep this up!

Good.

Response:

A really great story – the commercial magazines should print such quality! Mark Hickey

This is my favorite story from my short bush flying career: Really thick haze was unusual in northeastern Ontario.  It was so bad that June afternoon in 1990 that I had decided against the trip from Ramsey Lake in Sudbury,  Ont., our base, to pick up two guys due to come out of a camp on the Spanish River, about an 80 mile trip.  The vis was just too low, less than 1/2 mile into sun, and Bob, my boss and the owner of Ramsey Airways, was pretty good about not pushing me into conditions I wasn’t ready for, being a new bush pilot (by the end of the season I was flying in just about anything).  The two guys that were waiting for me were local and could stand to spend an extra night in their cabin. A mild cold front cleared out the haze overnight and next morning was one of those blindingly blue razor horizon days you get in the "Near North" when free of the influence of the Great Lakes to the south.  Bob and I discussed the location of the camp and the fact that the useable area of the river was less than 3000 ft long, short for a Cessna 180 on floats with a load.  I decided that the space was adequate but would take a minimum amount of fuel (just enough for the round trip plus 10 gal) to keep the load down. The C-180 was running fine except for a mystery oil leak that seemed to be coming from a pushod tube.  It was a ‘76 model, indistinguishable from a 185, and was in beautiful shape. By 9 am I was cruising northwest from Subury at a couple of thousand feet in silky smooth air, watching the boreal forest slide under the floats, and keeping an eye out for a moose.  Mornings like that made me think, "I can’t believe I’m getting paid to do this" (the catch: the pay for newbies is effectively minimum wage, hence only one season at it). It was no problem getting into the stretch of river where the cabin was, and soon I was at the dock loading the gear of my two passengers.  On the way out I made sure that I used every foot of available river.  The take-off run was between a bend and some rapids and was uneventful. I’d always heard about things going wrong with engines right after the first power change after take off.  Sure enough, just after setting up 24 square for the climb, there started a once per rev beat.  A funny little vibration. After shoving my heart back down my throat and pulling carb heat, I started to assess things, turning to follow the river to a lake a couple of miles south.  Once over the lake I relaxed a bit, circling over it, and starting playing with the engine controls trying to figure out what it was.   The vibration changed with rpm, and playing with mags, carb heat and mixture had no effect.  Oil pressure and temp was fine.  The vibration was too subtle to be a chunk of prop tip missing or anything like that. Decision time came after I examined the power setting and compared it to the airplane’s performance.  By now I was 24 square, flying at 90 kts, and NOT CLIMBING.  Something internal was "holding the engine back" and the vibration was very slowly getting worse. I chopped power, announced to my surprised seat mate, "I’m putting it down; something’s not right." and circled down to land on Lebel Lake, basically a widening of the Spanish River.   Couldn’t get anybody on the unicom on the way down. An outfitter used the lake as part of his camp network and this lake had a nice dock, with boats, and the end of a trail leading to another lake. Pulled up, docked, tied up and looked at the airplane, which had oil all down the lower left side and belly.  Hmmmm.  Removed the top cowl… YIKES! The left forward most cylinder was held on with only one top stud!  The other 3 top ones had broken off, and the bottom ones were loose, which is why the top ones failed.  The oil was coming from the broken seal at the base flange of the cylinder (which was the "mystery oil leak").  The cylinder was able to wobble up and down, which was the cause of the vibration and was not far away from popping right off. Well, how to get outta there… Sent the two guys fishing in one of the boats to keep them occupied.  Gotta get someone on the radio.   Pan calls on 122.8 got nothing.  So I decided to do a Pan call on 121.5.  "PAN PAN PAN… Golf Papa Victor Zulu, any aircraft."  After a while of this, came the surprise response; "Papa Victor Zulu, this is Canadian (airlines) Flight 435.  Can we be of assistance?" It took about 15 minutes to relay the information, the name of the lake, etc. The airliner seemed to be some distance away and couldn’t hear me very clearly, so I had to repeat instructions, but eventually he was able to get enough information to raise Ramsey Base on unicom and talk to my boss, telling him that I was on Lebel Lake with unknown difficulties but everybody was ok.  The airline then relayed back to me that Bob would be out with the Beaver after dropping off another load at a nearby lodge. After lunch I could hear the guttural throb of the 985 in the distance and called Bob on 122.8.  He said, "I got some gas for ya".  He thought I’d decided not to fly back because of not enough fuel.  "I got lotsa gas Bob." "What’s wrong?"  "Cylinder coming off."   "Ohhh shhhhhh—t" (definitely not radio protocol, but under the circumstances…). Anyway, we loaded the two guys and their gear in the Beaver, secured the 180 to the shoreline beside the dock, and off we went.  I went with a mechanic the next day in his personal aircraft and we removed the engine, firewall forward, right there, using a come-along and a bipod made from pine poles. I photographed the whole thing.  That was fun, in spite of the blackflies. Being on an uninhabited lake in the middle of nowhere is one of the most peaceful experiences I’ve ever had.  Hauled the O-470 out in the Ramsey Airways Beaver that afternoon, after an interesting and entertaining 2 hours trying to get it in the Beaver’s cabin. Three weeks later the engine was overhauled and we flew in back in and reinstalled it.  The first flight out was a bit of a nail biter.   Luckily, no more problems for the remaining 400 hours I flew for rest of that summer of 1990, probably the most fun summer of my life. John Kahn — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

Response:

Question:

I rented a felluca for day sailing. I think that it would be little trouble to get one for a fair cruise.

Excellent idea, and definitely in my style. —      Mark Anderson – DBA Riparia Resources    www.riparia.org Medical info for cruisers and woodworkers.  Boatbuilding plans. Artistic photography       Landscapes – Nautical and marine – Abstracts, extracts and themes.

Response:

I’m curious as to whether it is practical to cruise up and down the Nile R. with a private yacht. Legalities and other hassles: Practical draft limitations: Safety and pleasurability of your reception by the Egyptians: Any other information that may be of interest: —      Mark Anderson – DBA Riparia Resources    www.riparia.org

I rented a felluca for day sailing. I think that it would be little trouble to get one for a fair cruise. It would avoid all the problems of a rich-looking yacht. I’d not worry too much about piracy or big-deal problems. It’s petty theft that gets you. — Bernard W. Joseph     http://www.appliedgrammar.com   "Speak to us of Emailia."    James Joyce    FINNEGANS WAKE

Response:

Last month I sailed a felucca from Aswan to Edfu, so based on limited knowledge of this stretch of water:

Thanks Tony, yours was the kind of info I was looking for.  As to the political climate, those responses are taken in mind, and as expected. For my own purposes, however, the time I might be taking this cruise will be at least several years into the future, so I’ll hope that the political situation might change by then.  In any event, it’ll be taken into account whenever, and probably I’d get the opinion of the state dept. first. —      Mark Anderson – DBA Riparia Resources    www.riparia.org Medical info for cruisers and woodworkers.  Boatbuilding plans. Artistic photography       Landscapes – Nautical and marine – Abstracts, extracts and themes.

Response:

A rich American cruising his flashy yacht in the Middle East…… Now THERE’s a TARGET of OPPORTUNITY for you. Hated by millions of Arabs because of our undying support for the Israeli War Machine…..tearing up Palestinians. Can you answer your own question?  PLEASE DON’T!

When I was in Egypt a quite few years ago (just after Egypt and Israel "normalized" relations) the average Egyptian on the street preferred Israeli money to Egyptian money for the small cash purchases.  And that was after a 10 to 1 devaluation of Israeli money. Things certainly may have changed in the past 20 years but back then they were very friendly to American tourists.  The only thing that had me feeling unsafe was the way they drive, especially in and around Cairo.  You probably heard about driving in Italy.  Cairo is much worse. Steve

Response:

Oh, I think the average Egyptian is still "American friendly".  Most Arabs I ever met when I lived there were very pro-American and simply LOVED Yankee dollars.  However, times have changed, not the people. This Al Queda network is only one of many anti-American networks with supporters across a wide spectrum of Arab countries.  Bombs are going off almost every day, now. Flashing the big yacht in their faces, and all the cash that goes along with it, attracts attention.  Word is passed to the network from the supporters who will never see their own cars, much less a flashy yacht.  The damned thing is a great "target" and would be a prize on any terrorist’s list.  Egypt is eat up with anti-Israeli, and therefore anti-American, groups. It just seems stupid to put the family, the boat and his personal safety in harm’s way flashing that yacht in their faces after 9/11. Middle East changed that day.  Until the "brothers" in Afghanistan get the word spread out that America is NOT the enemy, and saved them from the gangsters who were killing the country, I’d pick a nice, quiet island someplace for the flashy yacht full of Yankees.  With so MANY beautiful places on the planet, why take the chance? Larry We fail, miserably, to see how hated we are because of our support for Israel, no matter who they kill, no matter what they do.  You have to live in an Arab country to really feel it.

Response:

Yotties are not tourists – we aren’t treated as tourists in most places, don’t use the same visas, don’t follow the same rules, processes, etc.  Most countries treat yotties same as commercial ships, fishing vessels, etc – crew lists, clearances, paid for visas, etc   They know we don’t stay in hotels, buy loads of tourist crap, spend big in restaurants, etc.  We’re not "respected" and "protected" in the same way at all.  We aren’t part of that industry. On Egypt – many cruising friends have transited the Suez and universally agreed (much to my disappointment) that Egypt is a miserable shithole of a country to cruise.  Big theft and bribe problems. They get through there as quickly as possible with as short and few stops as necessary. It’s much easier and safe to park the boat in Cypress in a marina and fly in/out of Egypt – as a respected and protected tourist. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – [...] It just seems stupid to put the family, the boat and his personal safety in harm’s way flashing that yacht in their faces after 9/11. Middle East changed that day.  Until the "brothers" in Afghanistan get the word spread out that America is NOT the enemy, and saved them from the gangsters who were killing the country, I’d pick a nice, quiet island someplace for the flashy yacht full of Yankees.  With so MANY beautiful places on the planet, why take the chance? Personally, I don’t think it would be all that much of a chance.  At least compared to many other beautiful places people cruise to.  Egypt definitely had a problem a while ago with terrorists attacking visitors.  But from what I’ve heard, they cracked down on them pretty hard.  A large part of their economy is based on tourism, so there’s a big incentive to keep tourists safe. Larry We fail, miserably, to see how hated we are because of our support for Israel, no matter who they kill, no matter what they do.  You have to live in an Arab country to really feel it. That’s just not true for the average person you meet in many Arab countries, including Egypt, especially Egypt. Steve

Response:

[...] It just seems stupid to put the family, the boat and his personal safety in harm’s way flashing that yacht in their faces after 9/11. Middle East changed that day.  Until the "brothers" in Afghanistan get the word spread out that America is NOT the enemy, and saved them from the gangsters who were killing the country, I’d pick a nice, quiet island someplace for the flashy yacht full of Yankees.  With so MANY beautiful places on the planet, why take the chance?

Personally, I don’t think it would be all that much of a chance.  At least compared to many other beautiful places people cruise to.  Egypt definitely had a problem a while ago with terrorists attacking visitors.  But from what I’ve heard, they cracked down on them pretty hard.  A large part of their economy is based on tourism, so there’s a big incentive to keep tourists safe. Larry We fail, miserably, to see how hated we are because of our support for Israel, no matter who they kill, no matter what they do.  You have to live in an Arab country to really feel it.

That’s just not true for the average person you meet in many Arab countries, including Egypt, especially Egypt. Steve

Response:

Last month I sailed a felucca from Aswan to Edfu, so based on limited knowledge of this stretch of water: Draft limitation: most of the cruise boats had a draft of 4 feet or 4′ 6".  Our felucca had a centre board so that we could pull into the bank. Buoyage: Almost non existent.  There are shallows and a few rocks. Local knowledge desirable. Wind:  Prevailing wind in this Southern stretch is Northerly (i.e. against the stream) so one can tack North with the stream or run South against it. Height:  The bridge North of Aswan is not yet complete – awaiting the final span.  When finished this would restrict mast height to that of the big cruise boats (30 – 40 feet at a guess). Formalities: I don’t know details, but almost certainly Yes.  Our felucca captain had to advise the police of our trip. Pleasure:  Definitely!  We swam in the river (no crocs below the High Dam), saw water buffalo, ibises etc.  We found people universally friendly, although a strong feeling that America would do anything to support Israel to the detriment of Arab states. Tony Boas Sadler 34 – Bold Warrior – Southampton, UK.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m curious as to whether it is practical to cruise up and down the Nile R. with a private yacht. Legalities and other hassles: Practical draft limitations: Safety and pleasurability of your reception by the Egyptians: Any other information that may be of interest: —      Mark Anderson – DBA Riparia Resources    www.riparia.org Medical info for cruisers and woodworkers.  Boatbuilding plans. Artistic photography       Landscapes – Nautical and marine – Abstracts, extracts and

themes.

Response:

Irving Johnson did his "TwiLight" cruise through the canals of Europe and up the Nile just before the Aswan dam was complete. I have the video here and it looks like a nice cruise. His boat was about 50 ft and moderate draft (not over 5 ft or he wouldn’t have been able to do the canals of Europe). I went to Egypt for a visit back in the mid 80s while I was working in Saudi Arabia. There was no problem as long as you didn’t have any Israeli stamps in you passport. I would imagine the climate is rather hostle now-a-days. I’d be more worried about stopping in Alexandria or transiting the Red Sea and it wouldn’t be the Egyptions that i would be afraid of. My opinion and experience, FWIW. Steve s/v Good Intentions

Response:

A rich American cruising his flashy yacht in the Middle East…… Now THERE’s a TARGET of OPPORTUNITY for you. Hated by millions of Arabs because of our undying support for the Israeli War Machine…..tearing up Palestinians. Can you answer your own question?  PLEASE DON’T! larry I’d love to back to the Middle East where I lived and worked in Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.  But, not now.  Not after 9/11/2001, PLEASE DON"T! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’m curious as to whether it is practical to cruise up and down the Nile R. with a private yacht. Legalities and other hassles: Practical draft limitations: Safety and pleasurability of your reception by the Egyptians: Any other information that may be of interest: —     Mark Anderson – DBA Riparia Resources    www.riparia.org Medical info for cruisers and woodworkers.  Boatbuilding plans. Artistic photography      Landscapes – Nautical and marine – Abstracts, extracts and themes.

Response:

I’m curious as to whether it is practical to cruise up and down the Nile R. with a private yacht. Legalities and other hassles: Practical draft limitations: Safety and pleasurability of your reception by the Egyptians: Any other information that may be of interest: —      Mark Anderson – DBA Riparia Resources    www.riparia.org Medical info for cruisers and woodworkers.  Boatbuilding plans. Artistic photography       Landscapes – Nautical and marine – Abstracts, extracts and themes.

Response:

Question:

I’ve used a Discovery 17 regular stern with a motor mount as a fishing "boat" on rivers and small lakes.  A canoe is a great way to get around by paddle.  A motor just doesn’t work all that well, unless you’ve a a fairly wide boat with some kind of keel.  But I’ve done it and would continue to do so, if I couldn’t get my hands on a boat.  And then you’re not talking about a true canoe, anyway. I’d get a carolina skiff or a jonboat for what you want to do.  You’ll be able to stand and move around much more easily.  But if you’re wanting to cartop, then the Sportboat will work.  Just remember that canoes are really for paddling in the 15 to 18 foot size. Best of all, get a river dory, mount a small motor, and you’re set for all kinds of fishing in small lakes and any kind of river.  Great casting platforms.  Great stability.  Can tow with almost any car due to light weight. Mike

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I realy enjoy my guide 147.  I just got an outrigger for additional stability while fishing in lakes.  they work very well and cost about $200, and clamp on, no perminate holes.  One can stand in their canoe with the outrigger…

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello was thinking of buying an old town discovery sport 17 foot square stern canoe for fly fishing with my wife.  Does anyone have any comments about this model.  I’m particularly interested in using it for lakes and ponds with a trolling motor at times.  I’m also interested to know how it would handle on slow moving rivers. tia minkaz

Response:

Hello was thinking of buying an old town discovery sport 17 foot square stern canoe for fly fishing with my wife.  Does anyone have any comments about this model.  I’m particularly interested in using it for lakes and ponds with a trolling motor at times.  I’m also interested to know how it would handle on slow moving rivers. tia minkaz

Response:

Having just visited the Old Town web site a couple of days ago, your post caught my eye right away. While I can’t give any personal advice directly, you should check out their site if you haven’t already been there.  It’s exceptional, both with respect to lots of information and also, it’s easy to navigate. Their address is:  http://www.otccanoe.com/ They do have a dealer locator option on their menu choices which may come in handy in case you don’t get the sought after responses to your post here. Regards, Trent Roberson —  Rx F Fish — For your good health, Fly Fish     A Datasource about Fly Fishing Topics            http://www.rxffish.com           Discussion & Chat Groups      http://www.studio128.net/rxffish_1            Free Business Listings Fly Fishing related Companies & Organizations      http://rxffish.com/data_input.htm – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello was thinking of buying an old town discovery sport 17 foot square stern canoe for fly fishing with my wife.  Does anyone have any comments about this model.  I’m particularly interested in using it for lakes and ponds with a trolling motor at times.  I’m also interested to know how it would handle on slow moving rivers. tia minkaz

Response:

Hello was thinking of buying an old town discovery sport 17 foot square stern canoe for fly fishing with my wife.  Does anyone have any comments about this model.  I’m particularly interested in using it for lakes and ponds with a trolling motor at times.  I’m also interested to know how it would handle on slow moving rivers.

I own a Discovery 174 (pointy ends) that I like a lot.   It’s quite stable, tracks well, and lightwei…..     Okay, it’s stable & tracks well. Actually, it weighs in at a mere 84 pounds, & I can handle it myself, but it’s a beast to lift overhead.   I fitted it with a removeable motor mount and a 35# thrust electric motor & it moves right along on lakes.   I expect that a square transom would only make it better for that.   I even did some mild whitewater with it once, but that was hell on the cosmetics – I wouldn’t recommend it.   Slow rivers should be no problem. Joe F.

Response:

Hello was thinking of buying an old town discovery sport 17 foot square stern canoe for fly fishing with my wife.  Does anyone have any comments about this model.  I’m particularly interested in using it for lakes and ponds with a trolling motor at times.  I’m also interested to know how it would handle on slow moving rivers. tia minkaz

I can’t comment on that particular model, but I can tell you my (and my family’s) experience with Old Town has been wonderful,  if about 100 years and at least 3 generations (including a still-used ‘glassed over canvasback) says anything.   As to square sterns, don’t like them.  What we have is a bracket that mounts on the gunwale, and it has handled up to around a 7.5 hp (a 5 or less will do fine, but the dink pusher was handy).  That way, when paddles are in order, you still have a canoe, not a stretched skiff…<G.   That said, if I were buying as a new user (or could only have one) today, I’d at least consider a Grumman (or similar) aluminium – light, manueverable,  you can remove dents with a mallet, and best of all, weldable. Patching ‘glass-type material is a pain, and if you wrap such a boat, it is done. I also went to the site, and Crosslink 3 might be better than ‘glass type materials, but I still think aluminium is the best for a one-boat fleet…<G. HTH? R

Response:

Hello was thinking of buying an old town discovery sport 17 foot square stern canoe for fly fishing with my wife.  Does anyone have any comments about this model.  I’m particularly interested in using it for lakes and ponds with a trolling motor at times.  I’m also interested to know how it would handle on slow moving rivers. tia minkaz: I have a DS17 square stern that we use with an 8 hp motor for Atlantic salmon fishing on large rivers. It is very stable because it is wide, and quite heavy (118 lb).  We also pole it on fast rivers, and it is a bit of a pig in comparison with narrower canoes, but it’s OK.  It would be fine for paddling or running a trolling motor on slow rivers, ponds and small lakes (<250 acres).  I’d go to a DS15 for this.  It will give the stability without so much weight. JB

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Question:

For this 11 year old I would certainly be willing to give up my 8′ 6"  6 wt. Cortland Fairplay beginner’s outfit to get him started.  What should an 11 year old be able to handle?  Redington and others make great starting outfits but I don’t think much money is available here.  BTW, my Cortland outfit will be offered free if you guys think he can handle it.

When I was growing up without a father my next-door neighbor gave me flyfishing tackle and took me fishing. I’ll never forget him. You’ll be doing a very good deed. BTW, do you think maybe his mother has some additional reason for coming to the meeting?

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Stephen, From her demeanor, words, and actions, I believe she had a singular interest in the group; her son.  Besides, if your looking for a new pair of track shoes you don’t go looking in the brogan box. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -BTW, do you think maybe his mother has some additional reason for coming to the meeting?

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Stephen, From her demeanor, words, and actions, I believe she had a singular interest in the group; her son.  Besides, if your looking for a new pair of track shoes you don’t go looking in the brogan box.

Sounds like she may have come to the right place anyway. — Charlie…

Response:

I attended the inaugural meeting of a new fly fishing club here in Fredericksburg VA last Wednesday night.  About 15 guys my age showed up, talked fly fishing and passed around photos of a bunch of 8 to 10 LB. stripers caught in the Rappahannock right under Rt. 1.  Also joining the group was a single mom (thirty something and very attractive).  She came to learn about fly fishing so she could teach her 11 year old son and take him fishing.  She seemed to think fly fishing was the most wholesome sport she could think of (no offense but she hasn’t met this group).

        for a shot at mom, i’ll put up my 8′ 2wt thomas&thomas. wayno the relentless

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Stephen, From her demeanor, words, and actions, I believe she had a singular interest in the group; her son.  Besides, if your looking for a new pair of track shoes you don’t go looking in the brogan box. Wayne

        hold on man; you can’t forget who you are…you are a wayne, dammit, and that *stands* for something in this crazy world of ours. just walk over to her, look her in the eyes, and say:  "my name is wayne.  what color mercedes would you like to have?"         she’ll be putty in your hands. wayno, who knows what he’s talkin about, i mean!

Response:

My son is seven and he likes his KidStart system. It’s an 8 ft two piece rod with a 6/7 line. System comes with the backing, fly line, leader, and the case. The reel that comes with, is plastic. Nice for entry level anglers.

Response:

Stephen, From her demeanor, words, and actions, I believe she had a singular interest in the group; her son.  Besides, if your looking for a new pair of track shoes you don’t go looking in the brogan box.

NEVER underestimate the subtlety of a woman. — something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

OK Wayno, I’ll bet it’ll be dark blue or black with leather upholstery, looks better on a blonde.  Sorry George, I don’t think this gal has ever had to sleep in a tent! Wayne the damsel in distress rescuer To fish is human…to release divine. Now how did Wayno know the meeting is held a block away from the Mercedes/Volvo dealer? Could it be he keeps a little black book with the names of all the Mercedes dealers? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – hold on man; you can’t forget who you are…you are a wayne, dammit, and that *stands* for something in this crazy world of ours. just walk over to her, look her in the eyes, and say:  "my name is wayne.  what color mercedes would you like to have?" she’ll be putty in your hands. wayno, who knows what he’s talkin about, i mean!

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I attended the inaugural meeting of a new fly fishing club here in Fredericksburg VA last Wednesday night.  About 15 guys my age showed up, talked fly fishing and passed around photos of a bunch of 8 to 10 LB. stripers caught in the Rappahannock right under Rt. 1.  Also joining the group was a single mom (thirty something and very attractive).  She came to learn about fly fishing so she could teach her 11 year old son and take him fishing.  She seemed to think fly fishing was the most wholesome sport she could think of (no offense but she hasn’t met this group). For this 11 year old I would certainly be willing to give up my 8′ 6"  6 wt. Cortland Fairplay beginner’s outfit to get him started.  What should an 11 year old be able to handle?  Redington and others make great starting outfits but I don’t think much money is available here.  BTW, my Cortland outfit will be offered free if you guys think he can handle it. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine.

   Check out "the poor mans fly fishing catalog" Cabela’s. Two of the short and extremely easy to cast. They longer stiffer rods are great if you are well coordinated, hefty, and expierienced. 11 year olds come in all sizes and muscularity but generally are of the smallish akward type and need all the help they can get from the rod.                                                              John Popp                                                          in Sanford Fl.

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I agree with Charlie. Physically he should be able to handle it. But I wouldn’t just give it without some ritual. Id make him earn it like this: Tell him and mom that you have this outfit, you think it might fit him but you wonder if he can handle a "man’s" outfit. Suggest a session with Mom and son at a park pond. She watches (the woman is for another time). Show him how to cast. Whatever happens, say it looks like he can handle a "man’s" outfit ( or at least "grow" into it) and give it. Show him how to carry it, break it down, and carefully put in sock etc. I hope Im not being too patronizing.  You are doing a good thing. This kid is not living with a dad so he’s going to have too handle a lot more than a "man’s outfit" on his own, but you can create with this one generous act a positive initiation ritual and talisman of manhood. Our Native American brothers understand this stuff real well.  Good luck , your message says you have the right heart for this. Dave

Response:

I attended the inaugural meeting of a new fly fishing club here in Fredericksburg VA last Wednesday night.  About 15 guys my age showed up, talked fly fishing and passed around photos of a bunch of 8 to 10 LB. stripers caught in the Rappahannock right under Rt. 1.  Also joining the group was a single mom (thirty something and very attractive).  She came to learn about fly fishing so she could teach her 11 year old son and take him fishing.  She seemed to think fly fishing was the most wholesome sport she could think of (no offense but she hasn’t met this group). For this 11 year old I would certainly be willing to give up my 8′ 6"  6 wt. Cortland Fairplay beginner’s outfit to get him started.  What should an 11 year old be able to handle?  Redington and others make great starting outfits but I don’t think much money is available here.  BTW, my Cortland outfit will be offered free if you guys think he can handle it. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine.

Response:

For this 11 year old I would certainly be willing to give up my 8′ 6"  6 wt. Cortland Fairplay beginner’s outfit to get him started.  What should an 11 year old be able to handle?  Redington and others make great starting outfits but I don’t think much money is available here.  BTW, my Cortland outfit will be offered free if you guys think he can handle it.

I think a 6wt would make a good all around starter set. — Charlie…

Response:

I think that he should easily beable to use that rod…My 8year old uses an 6 1/2 foot 4wt and does very well with it. Jon

Clipped – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -For this 11 year old I would certainly be willing to give up my 8′ 6"  6 wt. Cortland Fairplay beginner’s outfit to get him started.  What should an 11 year old be able to handle?  Redington and others make great starting outfits but I don’t think much money is available here.  BTW, my Cortland outfit will be offered free if you guys think he can handle it. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine.

Response:

For this 11 year old I would certainly be willing to give up my 8′ 6" 6 wt. Cortland Fairplay beginner’s outfit to get him started.  What should an 11 year old be able to handle?  Redington and others make great starting outfits but I don’t think much money is available here.  BTW, my Cortland outfit will be offered free if you guys think he can handle it. Wayne To fish is human…to release divine.

Wayne: My sons (11 through 14) all handle a 8.5′ 5 wt. just fine.  I got them a 7.5′ 3wt. Cabella outfit for Christmas but I wonder if the 3 wt. might be a little light for their casting ability.  I’ll find out in a couple of months!  I think that 11 year old will do very well with your 6 wt. outfit as long as he gets some good instruction. –Stan

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Question:

Does anyone know some good small streams around portland?

Response:

Yeah, this is a hard question to get an answer to.   I THINK the best tactic is to look southeast of Portland, in the foothills of Mt Hood, but the locals don’t weant to talk much.  E-mail one of the flyshops up there and see what they say.  All else fails, try the streams around Breitenbush. — Ken Brown Satis elequontiae, sapientiae parum.

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Question:

Hi Group, Gretchen and I are traveling to a fly tying expo in Eugene, OR (in the new car I bought her today for our wedding anniversary) and will be off line for a couple of days. Don’t worry, we will answer your emails as soon as possible. Any one in the Eugene area stop by the Lane County fair grounds and say hello. We would love to me all of you. — Tight Lines ….. Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products http://www.btsflyfishing.com Tiemco quality hooks, under $6.00 pkg/50

Response:

: Gretchen and I are traveling to a fly tying expo in Eugene, OR (in the : new car I bought her today for our wedding anniversary) and will be off : line for a couple of days. Don’t worry, we will answer your emails as : soon as possible. Any one in the Eugene area stop by the Lane County : fair grounds and say hello. We would love to me all of you. I’ll be there if you will buy me a car Al.  How many years must I "put in" before I get one? Have fun. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

Hi Group, Gretchen and I are traveling to a fly tying expo in Eugene, OR (in the new car I bought her today for our wedding anniversary) and will be off line for a couple of days. Don’t worry, we will answer your emails as soon as possible. Any one in the Eugene area stop by the Lane County fair grounds and say hello. We would love to me all of you. — Tight Lines ….. Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products http://www.btsflyfishing.com Tiemco quality hooks, under $6.00 pkg/50

Happy Anniversary Al and Gretchen!!! Roger

Response:

Question:

I have a 14ft 9/10 wt. Spey rod and I’m looking for information as to the availability of a good sink tip Spey line. Hopefully someone can point me to the right source. Thanks, MJR

Response:

I have a 14ft 9/10 wt. Spey rod and I’m looking for information as to the availability of a good sink tip Spey line. Hopefully someone can point me to the right source. Thanks, MJR

The RIO Windcutter is expensive but comes with interchangeable floating and two weights of sinking tips that match to the taper for decent spey casting. It is a shorter belly than his other line, the Accelerator.  I am not sure if the Accelerator has the removeable tips but that is a longer belly line specifically for spey casting, but not appropriate for shooting or overhand.  I think the belly on the windcutter is about 45 or 50 feet so you end up shooting your spey cast and retrieving a bit back near the belly before casting. Thw windcutter also has a removeable floating mid section and I have found that by removing this and the tip I am able to add about 25′ of leadcore, just for overhand not spey casting, but it throws it pretty good and this really gets deep. Your tackle dealer may be able to tell you more, or look RIO up – I think they are in Blackfoot, Idaho or Montana, one of the two. You could also make your own in the time-honored tradition. Cut up an 8 wt. shooting head into 5, 10, and fifteen foot pieces and put stiff mono loops on the ends, and cut off the front taper of a DT-10 line and put another loop there and this should turn over fairly decently. You need to use very heavy mono like Maxima 80 lb. or so, or strip off the plastic and make a loop with the braided core and coat with pliobond.  Going a couple of sizes lighter in the sink tips allows it to kick over easier and will work much better than trying it with 9 or 10 wt. shooting head pieces. This info is from Trey Combs big Steelhead book. Happy Steelheading, mark Vinsel — http://www.lanminds.com/local/vinnie/gallery.html

Response:

I have a 14ft 9/10 wt. Spey rod and I’m looking for information as to the availability of a good sink tip Spey line. Hopefully someone can point me to the right source. Thanks, MJR

You don’t say if you want a line for overhead, switch or speycasting… Anyway, check out http://www.teleport.com/~flyfish/speyline.html (A nice page with comprehensive info) Good luck and… /Tord Andreasson, Sweden

[ speyline.html 13K ]

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This document was last edited: January 25, 1996SteelheadquartersQuest for the Perfect Spey Lineby Mark Bachmann, for The Fly Fishing Shop, Welches, Oregon, USA

The first thing that you will notice when listening to a gathering of two hand fly rod advocates is there are a lot of different ideas about which is the best fly line configuration. At present there are at least(8) different full floating spey line taper configurations manufaured in the USA.

At present three configurations for sinking tip lines are commonly used. We will try to make some sense of these differing approaches to fly line taper design, knowing and welcoming in advance that there will be some disagreement on some points. We will pass on the more interesting e-mail discussions and ask only that these discussions be limited to subjects thoroughly tested for several long days on-stream.

The perfect spey line would fish long, fish close, fish calm, fish wind and throw large and small flies. For the purpose of these discussions the words spey and two-hand will be used interchangeably. The lines listed in the following text are specially designed for spey or change-of-direction-roll-casting. They may not be appropriate for over head casting.Double Taper Floating Spey Lines. Double taper is the traditional fly line design for two hand fly rods. There are some obvious reasons why. A double taper is the easiest to mend at long distance. A double taper turns over smoothly. Since the belly of the line is a constant diameter there is little need to strip, coil or shoot line. Theoretically turn around time is quicker and the angler is more efficient. Besides when spey casts were first developed, the equipment of the time was more difficult to shoot line with. However double tapers often need long back loops to load the rod for long casts. These loops can get blown by the wind or get tangled in the stream side brush.Cortland or S.A. Traditional 90′ Double TaperThe traditional 90′ double taper fly line has about 76′ of belly with about 7′ of taper on each end. Taper design is dependent on the size of the line and the maufacurer who made it. I’ve met a number of anglers packing around the 120′ spey double tapers that couldn’t cast the first 90′. It takes a fair amount of practice to cast consistently 90′ and stay under control. The extra thirty feet of bulk of the 120′ spey line needs a heavier and often more expensive reel to hold it. Use the 90′ lin if it fits your conditions.Cortland or S.A., Specially designed 120′ Double Taper Spey LinesThese lines are designed for really good fly casters who fish big rivers with rods that are longer than those commonly used for steelhead fishing. However if you’re fishing a very large river and have the skill, it’s hard to cast 120′ with a 90′ fly line.Custom made, Double taper, tickler-tip spey lines. This type of double taper fly line has had part of the tip taper removed from one end andis joined to 15′ to 20′ of a smaller diameter double taper fly line. The tip is often joined to the main line with a loop to loop system. The floating tip can be removed and a sinking one added. This makes it the most adaptable spey line out there. The problem is for me that it doesn’t do anything very well. (I know I’ll get the E-mails for this one.) I have fished with anglers who can cast very well with this system however.Cortland, Step taper Double Taper Spey Line This fly line has a short belly with very long front taper on each end which descends in steps. The taper is desinged to magnify the energy flowing down the line and increase line speed at long distance. The double taper design makes long distance mending comfortable. I used one of these lines on the Deschutes River last fall for about two weeks and caught several steelhead with it. It preformed well enough during calm days but gave me fits in the wind. The test line may have been a little heavy for the rod I was using it on. I think that next fall I will try the same rod with the next size smaller line and see what happens. (I’ll keep you posted.)Weight Forward Floating Spey Lines, Royal Wulff Triangle Taper Spey LinesThis line has a continuous taper for 65′ to 80′. It has a short rear taper and then enough running line to reach a full 120′ length. The rear of the tapered head is larger than a double taper of the same weight designation. The design theory is that as the loop unrolls, a larger diameter line is forcing energy into a smaller diameter line. This helps maintan line speed. The triangle taper fly line was invented by Lee Wulff. I will make no unbiased bones about it , this is my favorite full floating fly line. If the design was good enough its good enough for me. Besides, I met Joan Wullf for the first time last fall. She sure seemed like a nice lady. I’d just as soon put the money in her pocket. This line casts long, is controllable long, casts well enough in the wind and lays the fly down delicately. Keep yours real clean with the new Scientific Anglers Fly Line Dressing.Cortland Step Taper Weight Forward Spey LinesStep tapers have a short level belly and a long front taper which is graduated in steps. It is desingned to condence energy much like the triangle taper. I’ve spent a limited amount of time on the water with this line. My partner, Mark Sensland used a weight foreward step taper line extensively on the Deschutes last fall and came back singing its praises. If you’ve seen him cover the water, it doesn’t take long to realize that he’s a man of vast steelhead experience.Rio Wind Cutter Spey Lines These 120′ lines are specifically designed for windy conditions. They have comparatively short heavy heads that are designed to turn around quickly with a shallow back loop and load the rod deeply for maximum line speed. The running line is small diameter for minimum wind resistance. I fished a couple of evenings on the Deschutes when the wind was blowing so hard that it would have been impossible for me to cast with any other line. One evening I hooked three steelhead and landed two. Beats sitting around camp. I recommend that you have one of these lines in your arsonal for those really bad days. Rio fly lines are designed by Jim Vincent of Blackfoot, Idaho. Jim is aknowlged as one of the better spey casters in the U.S. and has produced a very good video on the subject. We of course have them…$29.95. Rio Accelerator Spey Lines These lines are designed to give and extra kick at the end of the tip turn-over. They are a long belly weight forward configuration which tapers down and then once again enlarges to create extra mass near the tip.Sinking Tip Spey LinesThere are many conditions when steelhead will take a fly but they won’t rise to the surface for it. A sinking tip fly line takes the fly down to the fish’s level. The only problem is that there are many different depths and current speeds that will hold steelhead. Several sink rates are neccasary to cover all the conditions you may encounter. Carrying and changing extra fly lines can be cumbersome and time consuming. A floating line with changable sinking tips is more streamlined than carrying extra spools with different lines. It is a system that is readily adapted to the spey rod. The extra length of the spey rod gives the advantage that this loop system doesn’t have to enter the guides when stripping or casting. Since the line isn’t aerolized during the back cast any hinging effect caused by the loop conection isn’t a factor. Lines that are designed with a front taper to blend the energy flow for a specific weight of sinking tip, do turn over more controlably than a level drop conection. Staying in your casting rythem is easier if all of your sinking tips are the same weight and length and the density is varied for different sink rates.Custom, Double Taper Sinking Tip Spey LinesThis system is simply a double taper floating fly line with all or part of the tip taper chopped off and a loop installed for adding sinkingtips. Like its full floating counterpart, it doesn’t have to be stripped back to be recast. It can be mended to very long distances. It does have some design disadvantages however. If the line has enough mass to turn over a tip that is heavy enough to have an effective sink rate, the line becomes heavy enough to bog the rod down at longer casting ranges. Pulling a sunk tip to the top of the water so it can be recast, is fatiuging and more difficult to time at longer distances. Often the line must be stripped back so that the tip can be pulled to the top of the water. Because of the larger diameter of the line remaining in the guides, double taper lines don’t shoot as … read more »

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Question:

Yep. Steve

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: I came across something at the Americas for Medical Progress web site you                        <clip<clip<clip : has since been taken over by animal "rights" types. : For more info, see http://www.ampef.org/hsus.htm : "The HSUS bankrolled ballot initiatives in six states in the fall of : 1996, ostensibly aimed at hunters in Oregon, California, Washington : state, Michigan, Idaho and Massachusetts. The real goal behind each : campaign is to remove wildlife and habitat policies from the professional : stewardship of state wildlife managers. : Americans for Medical Progress, the key national research advocacy group : that monitors the animal rights agenda, predicted the HSUS ballot          <clip<clip<clip : and laboratory animal issues and other issues that are appropriate" in the : future."… There was an initiative here in Michigan this last election dealing with the taking of bear over bait or with hounds.  The initiative would have banned both practices. When I found out what was  behind this initiative, it became clear to me it was nothing more than an anti-hunting measure.  The person behind getting it on the ballot claimed it would help bear hunting because it would license more hunters to get the same harvest.  Well, it would also have banned bear hunting during anytime in which baiting for any other specie was allowed. Since we have a deer season that runs from October first to the end of of December, there wouldn’t really be any time to have a bear season. There were a couple of other issues that indicated to me that this whole thing was vacant of anything substantive and was just an anti-hunting measure. Fortunately, it was defeated *SOUNDLY* and another measure passed that gives wildlife management to the professionals. PETA and apparently HSUS supported the initiative. Kind regards, Steve Kernosky Michigan Tech University

Response:

This is an end result of a society that was tied to the land and understood that as a hunk of sentient protoplasm we ALWAYS have an impact on our environment in conflict with a new majority of voters that understand the interplay of man and nature due to their intimate knowlege born of countless Disney live action cartoons. Baiting bears is by no means a sure and easy enterprise as anyone who has tried it will tell you. Certainly not a ‘fish in a barrel’ sport as it has been represented. Cougars, as all animals, will populate until an external force checks the population growth. This force has been a limited amount of range and man. Now that man has been removed from the equation that will leave range as the controlling factor. Deer suffer from years of poor forage, ducks suffer from dry years that limit the breeding and rearing areas. It has been proven for many years that upland bird populations flucuate due to environmental factors and that sport hunting has little effect. All of these studies have been paid for with HUNTING dollars and the labor of untold hunters have improved more habitat than all the animal rights groups combined. Through our license fees, duck stamp funds and Pittman-Robertson monies we employ, and gladly, thousands of professional  game managers to help us improve the number,quality and health of the game that we pursue.   It is astonishing to me that I would have to conduct a wildlife biology 101 session to defend my right to pursue in a regulated fashion game animals and birds that owe their existence and health to a population of dedicated hunters like me.     This ‘rose colored’ view of nature that has been promoted by many animal groups is more than just irrational, it is incorrect! As with the old growth controversy DAMN THE FACTS, I WANT TO FEEL GOOD!! Leave game animal management to people who have at least some basis for their opinion other than what they are fed by Hollywood. A.J.Thramer

Response:

This is an end result of a society that was tied to the land and understood that as a hunk of sentient protoplasm we ALWAYS have an impact on our environment in conflict with a new majority of voters that understand the interplay of man and nature due to their intimate knowlege born of countless Disney live action cartoons. Baiting bears is by no means a sure and easy enterprise as anyone who has tried it will tell

you. Just go to a garbage dump and try to avoid tripping over them Certainly not a ‘fish in a barrel’ sport as it has been represented. Cougars, as all animals, will populate until an external force checks the population growth. This force has been a limited amount of range and man.

More and more and more and more and more limited range all the time. Now that man has been removed from the equation that will leave range as the controlling factor.

Too bad the wildlife managers don’t have a say about where the next subdivision is going to go up. Since the man made hunting pressure is off, you should by your argument have the best of both worlds.  Wildlife populations will go through the roof, so you will practicly trip over critters without the use of baits.  Why, you’ll probably be able to hunt them from your living room window in that new condo development that went up in what used to be a forest.  Deer suffer from years of poor forage, ducks suffer from dry years that limit the breeding and rearing areas. It has been proven for many years that upland bird populations flucuate due to environmental factors and that sport hunting has little effect. All of these studies have been paid for with HUNTING dollars

This is supposed to convince me that hunting has no affect on populations? I generally agree that hunters put far more into environment and habitat preservation than the public is aware of, but come on!  Get some more weight behind your citation of authorities.  Does the concept of scueing and bias mean anything to you?  and the labor of untold hunters have improved more habitat than all the animal rights groups combined.

Generalizations mean nothing and lead nowhere! Through our license fees, duck stamp funds and Pittman-Robertson monies we employ, and gladly, thousands of professional  game managers to help us improve the number,quality and health of the game that we pursue.   It is astonishing to me that I would have to conduct a wildlife biology 101 session to defend my right to pursue in a regulated fashion game animals and birds that owe their existence and health to a population of dedicated hunters like me.  

Its really nice that you are so broad minded(sarcasm dripping)  What do I have to teach you about biology to make YOU understand that having a lot of a selected species to shoot and kill is by no means an indicator of a healthy environment.  It just means you’ve done an excellent job of elliminating a lot of diversity to make room for your particular favorite species, based solely on what you like to shoot and NOT on what is good for the environment.  If this was not the case, we would not be loosing over 200 species per year to extinction.   This ‘rose colored’ view of nature that has been promoted by many animal groups is more than just irrational, it is incorrect! As with the old growth controversy DAMN THE FACTS, I WANT TO FEEL GOOD!! Leave game animal management to people who have at least some basis for their opinion other than what they are fed by Hollywood. A.J.Thramer

What rose coloured view are you talking about?  What is irrational?  Be specific man!  Its pretty hard to argue a point that has never been made. I really don’t know what your background is, but I find it really, really repugnant that you can talk about generalizations like hunters having some superior knowledge and understanding of the environment and talk about Old Growth Forest issues as being contraversial.  Its not a cotraversy, its a tragedy!   You want to let the last bits and remanents to be cut down and managed? What happened to all the other 95% that we cut down and managed?  Where were your experts then?  Probably looking over the blue prints for their new condo, that’s where! Its this kind of lame, unfocussed hogwash that creates the kind of polarity that keeps people from doing what’s right instead of doing whats best for themselves. Just MHO Mike

Response:

In fact, the initiative did not outlaw baiting or hound hunting for bear.  It just made it illegal for sport hunters to use these techniques.  It’s perfectly OK for govt. employees and "researchers" and presumably AR activists to use bait to attract bears.   Govt. agents are still allowed to use bait and hounds to kill bears.   Seems like it’s only cruel and barbaric to use hounds or bait if you do it for sport, and it generates revenues. Steve – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   I came across something at the Americas for Medical Progress web site you   might find interesting. BTW, HSUS is an acronym for the Humane Society of   the United States. It used to be an animal welfare organization but it   has since been taken over by animal "rights" types.   For more info, see http://www.ampef.org/hsus.htm   "The HSUS bankrolled ballot initiatives in six states in the fall of   1996, ostensibly aimed at hunters in Oregon, California, Washington   state, Michigan, Idaho and Massachusetts. The real goal behind each   campaign is to remove wildlife and habitat policies from the professional   stewardship of state wildlife managers. For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations.  It was hardly a radical animal rights initiative as is implied above.  THe Oregon initiative was an attempt to reverse an earlier decision to outlaw the practice in that state.  It failed. cheers,         -tgades

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   Newsgroups: alt.fishing,rec.outdoors.fishing,rec.outdoors.fishing.fly    Organization: AM Construction   In fact, the initiative did not outlaw baiting or hound hunting for   bear.  It just made it illegal for sport hunters to use these   techniques.  It’s perfectly OK for govt. employees and "researchers" and   presumably AR activists to use bait to attract bears.     Govt. agents are still allowed to use bait and hounds to kill bears.     Seems like it’s only cruel and barbaric to use hounds or bait if you do   it for sport, and it generates revenues.   Steve

OK.  I’ve no clue why, but I’ll take the bait.  The initiative made it illegal to take bears using bait and/or hounds.   Would you care to tell us where in the hell "Govt. agents", "researchers", and "AR Activists" are using bait and/or hounds to kill bears?  Further, if you can actually cite a real and documented example, then tell us when and why it happened. -tgades

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For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations. In Colorado, we can no longer hunt spring bears, unless they’re gay. TimW (Stolen from a cartoon which lampooned the Amendment 2 passing the popular vote)

And don’t get caught with a trap. I hear that the next election, they are going after using hooks on fish. Paul

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First of all, I actually read the initiative.  Unfortunately I don’t have a copy here in front of me, so this is from memory.  One of the local papers had an editorial slamming the initiative because it didn’t "Outlaw" the practices, just made them illegal for common folk. The text of the initiative stated (not a quote, but the gist) that Wildlife agents or their assigns could use bait or hounds to hunt down and kill problem bears.  Read "bears that are annoying people".  Sort of gives the lie to the idea that the practices are just tooooo barbaric and unfair. It stated that bait could be used to attract bears for "research purposes," whatever that means.  (But I thought that we didn’t want the bears to get used to people feeding them…) Anyone who has ever hunted bear in Western Washington brush knows that the traditional method of controlling bear numbers (sport hunting) just went out the window.  Incidental kills simply will not keep pace with population growth.  Ain’t no way you’re going to be able to target an area and reduce the bear population without resorting to bait and/or hounds. Well, maybe poisoned poodles……no wait, that’s bait…… Of course we could mount a multimillion dollar campaign to supply the bruins with condoms. Steve – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – OK.  I’ve no clue why, but I’ll take the bait.  The initiative made it illegal to take bears using bait and/or hounds. Would you care to tell us where in the hell "Govt. agents", "researchers", and "AR Activists" are using bait and/or hounds to kill bears?  Further, if you can actually cite a real and documented example, then tell us when and why it happened. -tgades

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations.  It was hardly a radical animal rights initiative as is implied above.  THe Oregon initiative was an attempt to reverse an earlier decision to outlaw the practice in that state.  It failed. cheers,       -tgades tgades, Where have you been? Any animal rights initiative is RADICAL! It’s a well-known fact among sportsmen that the ARA’s modus operandi is "divide and conquer". They attack minorities (bear-baiters, Salmon snaggers) within the hunting and fishing sports, hoping that other hunters/fishers won’t care because it’s not "their" type of hunting/fishing. Attitudes like yours ensure that the ARA’s tactics work! Todd

The other method they use is to create paranoia through undercover fanatical defenders of the insane under the guise of "I’m just sticking up for the minorities no matter how ludicress it sounds". Scully and Mulder will expose your devious plot.  You don’t fool me! Mike

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For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations.  

In Colorado, we can no longer hunt spring bears, unless they’re gay. TimW (Stolen from a cartoon which lampooned the Amendment 2 passing the popular vote)

Response:

     < snip "The HSUS bankrolled ballot initiatives in six states in the fall of 1996, ostensibly aimed at hunters in Oregon, California, Washington state, Michigan, Idaho and Massachusetts.

Hi Jim, The Washington State initiative is the only one I know about.  It only prohibits bear baiting and hound hunting for cougars.  I don’t hunt but "some of my best friends . . .".  Many hunters supported the initiative but the anti crowd used wild and false statements (along the lines of "they wanna take away your right to hunt, they wanna take away your way of life") in their attempt to defeat the initiative.  Fortunately, the public saw through their BS and passed it. My decision not to hunt is based solely on the fact that it doesn’t really appeal to me.  I don’t view hunting as any worse or better than fishing which I love.  I voted in favor of this initiative just as I would vote to prohibit snagging of fish if it weren’t already illegal. August Kristoferson Watercolor Fish Art http://www.eskimo.com/~augustk

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 I came across something at the Americas for Medical Progress web site you  might find interesting. BTW, HSUS is an acronym for the Humane Society of  the United States. It used to be an animal welfare organization but it  has since been taken over by animal "rights" types.  For more info, see http://www.ampef.org/hsus.htm  "The HSUS bankrolled ballot initiatives in six states in the fall of  1996, ostensibly aimed at hunters in Oregon, California, Washington  state, Michigan, Idaho and Massachusetts. The real goal behind each  campaign is to remove wildlife and habitat policies from the professional  stewardship of state wildlife managers.

Unfortunately for our wallets, the initiative passed in Washington.  For those who don’t bother to look at the end result of their vote — the state of Washington, expecting the measure to pass, had already lined up professional hunters with dogs to handle the necessary extermination of these animals when they exceed practical levels of population. The state will now have to pay for the service. The state of Oregon failed to pass the needed repeal of a similar law. There the state found that the number of animals they had to _pay_ to have exterminated was equivalent to the number that sport hunters usually paid for the right to hunt them.  Definitely a lose-lose situation for the state.  I’ve heard the cost is a couple of million annually. Even California is now having a pretty significant problem with cougars moving into populated areas making it unsafe to let the toddler play in the backyard.

Response:

My decision not to hunt is based solely on the fact that it doesn’t really appeal to me.  I don’t view hunting as any worse or better than fishing which I love.  I voted in favor of this initiative just as I would vote to prohibit snagging of fish if it weren’t already illegal.

In my view of the universe, the achilles heel of this legislation is in the fact that it takes "wildlife management" out of the hands of the professionals (ie. Departments of Fish and Game/Wildlife [admittedly an arguable statement, but certainly not improved upon by asking Joe/ Jane-weaned-on-Disney-Classics to take up this responsibility]).  Why do we believe that Fish and Game managers allow detrimental (some would claim "cruel’) practices to continue despite convincing evidence "that even a layman can understand"?  Could it be that the issue is more complex than we appreciate?  Let the wildlife management community do their job.  We should be able to make input into the decision making process.  But, let’s not take the decision making out of the hands of the trained professionals until they give us cause. Clearly, with 27 ballot initiatives on the Oregon ballet this year, the initiative process is being abused.  I always ask myself– "Is this a matter that requires a change to the state constitution, with all the attendant costs, to address the issue?"   The answer is usually, "No". I guess it goes back to the thread about big government vs. individual responsibility.  But, in reverse!  Now were talking about big government (ie. the voting owners of the government) trying to dictate how the little wildlife management community (probably a government agency working with state schools) carries out its responsibilities. Life is weird when you’re left-handed! Charley

Response:

  I came across something at the Americas for Medical Progress web site you   might find interesting. BTW, HSUS is an acronym for the Humane Society of   the United States. It used to be an animal welfare organization but it   has since been taken over by animal "rights" types.   For more info, see http://www.ampef.org/hsus.htm   "The HSUS bankrolled ballot initiatives in six states in the fall of   1996, ostensibly aimed at hunters in Oregon, California, Washington   state, Michigan, Idaho and Massachusetts. The real goal behind each   campaign is to remove wildlife and habitat policies from the professional   stewardship of state wildlife managers.

For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations.  It was hardly a radical animal rights initiative as is implied above.  THe Oregon initiative was an attempt to reverse an earlier decision to outlaw the practice in that state.  It failed. cheers,         -tgades

Response:

For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations.  It was hardly a radical animal rights initiative as is implied above.  THe Oregon initiative was an attempt to reverse an earlier decision to outlaw the practice in that state.  It failed. cheers,    -tgades

You might want to re-read the the ballot question carefully. Question 1 in Massachusetts was advertised to outlaw the use of spring traps in the state. At the End of the lengthy ballot question it also read that the laws are to be changed to allow non sportsman(AKA ARA’s) to serve on the board that governs hunting and fishing in this state. Unfortunatly all the TV ads showed thirty year old footage of animals including household pets caught in the traps with no mention of the second part of the question and question 1 passed by a 3-2 margin. Hopefully this can be changed before the ARA’s take over the board and try to ban hunting and fishing in this state.(Don’t think it can’t happen!!)

Response:

For what it is worth.  THe initiative in WA (which passed handily) was primarily to outlaw the practice of bear baiting – a practice already illegal in all but a couple of the states with viable bear populations.  It was hardly a radical animal rights initiative as is implied above.  THe Oregon initiative was an attempt to reverse an earlier decision to outlaw the practice in that state.  It failed. cheers,    -tgades

tgades, Where have you been? Any animal rights initiative is RADICAL! It’s a well-known fact among sportsmen that the ARA’s modus operandi is "divide and conquer". They attack minorities (bear-baiters, Salmon snaggers) within the hunting and fishing sports, hoping that other hunters/fishers won’t care because it’s not "their" type of hunting/fishing. Attitudes like yours ensure that the ARA’s tactics work! Todd

Response:

Question:

Just to ephasizewhat was allreay stated. 1. Mix the FlexCoat EXACTLY 50/50. 2. Make sure resin and hardener are mixed thouroughly.

Response:

I just bought the book The Art of Building a Graphite Fly Rod by L.A. Garcia, and he too stresses an accurate mix and LIGHT stirring (so not to introduce bubbles) for the count of 120.  Every 10 strokes, reverse the direction of your stirring.   A sunny day,      a box of midges,         and a wandering stream…   Man, this MUST be heaven!   <    Steve Kulpa    <<

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<sni In the past I have used Flex Coat to finish off the wraping on guides of the rods that I build.  My question is,  Is there any other coating or adhesive that anyone has used instead of the Flex Coat?  My problems with Flex Coat is that it takes three days for it to dry, and when it is dry the coating doesn’t appear to be very tough.

 <snip This problem was addressed in a series of posts some time back. The solution to your problem is as follows: i) be accurate in mixing 50/50 portions of the resin and hardener and even more important ii) mix thourougly, meaning for at least 2 minutes (or more).

<snip In my boat building, I have run aross instructions for epoxy (2 part) mixtures that recommend that you let the mixture set for 5 minutes, after mixing, before applying, to let the reactions kick off.  They also echo the previous information; be careful about your measurements and mix thoroughly.   I have used flex cote for years and have no problem. I particularly like the flexcote thin mixture.

Response:

In my boat building, I have run aross instructions for epoxy (2 part) mixtures that recommend that you let the mixture set for 5 minutes, after mixing, before applying, to let the reactions kick off.  They also echo the previous information; be careful about your measurements and mix thoroughly.  

I am not sure I’d recommend this.  The pot life of the Flex Coat seems to be fairly short.  The manufacturer recommends spreading out the mixed solution on aluminum foil to increase the life, but I find that even doing this only results in a pot life only slightly longer than the 5 minutes you suggest waiting.   I have never had the slightest problem measuring 50/50 (with syringes) and mixing for about 1-2minutes, then applying immediately (regular or "high build" versions).  Results in a tough, smooth finish that cures in about 24 hours. -tgades

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -M. Gades) writes: In my boat building, I have run aross instructions for epoxy (2 part) mixtures that recommend that you let the mixture set for 5 minutes, after mixing, before applying, to let the reactions kick off.  They also echo the previous information; be careful about your measurements and mix thoroughly.   I am not sure I’d recommend this.  The pot life of the Flex Coat seems to be fairly short.  The manufacturer recommends spreading out the mixed solution on aluminum foil to increase the life, but I find that even doing this only results in a pot life only slightly longer than the 5 minutes you suggest waiting.   I have never had the slightest problem measuring 50/50 (with syringes) and mixing for about 1-2minutes, then applying immediately (regular or "high build" versions).  Results in a tough, smooth finish that cures in about 24 hours. -tgades

I have not had any problem with the pot life on flex coat.  I use the flex coat lite, and generally take about 15 to 20 minutes to get the finish on.  Don’t know what the difference is, but there you be…  You can tell when it is going off when the container gets warm.

Response:

I always make sure my working room temp is above 65 degrees.  A desk lamp left on over your rod turner will suffice.  A fish tank thermometer helps too. Ross Wilson

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In the past I have used Flex Coat to finish off the wraping on guides of the rods that I build.  My question is,  Is there any other coating or adhesive that anyone has used instead of the Flex Coat?  My problems with Flex Coat is that it takes three days for it to dry, and when it is dry the coating doesn’t appear to be very tough. By tough I mean it seems to abraid very easy.  If anyone has any suggestions or has used another method to finish off the threads plaese let me know.                             Paul Grabek

Response:

In the past I have used Flex Coat to finish off the wraping on guides of the rods that I build.  My question is,  Is there any other coating or adhesive that anyone has used instead of the Flex Coat?  My problems with Flex Coat is that it takes three days for it to dry, and when it is dry the coating doesn’t appear to be very tough. By tough I mean it seems to abraid very easy.  If anyone has any suggestions or has used another method to finish off the threads plaese let me know.

I am assuming that you are getting the two-part mixture precisely 50/50? If not, use 2 syringes and mix exactly 50/50.   My experience is that after 12-24 hrs, a thick coat of Flex Coat has totally cured for me. good luck,         -tgades — Tony Gades                         You Flex           / University of Washington             your rod,       / GEOPHYSICS                                     /    / fish takes

Response:

I agree with the other response that I saw to your message.  My rods dry hard in 12-24 hours and are not subject to abrasion.  Check your mixture ratios and be sure to mix *very well* (at least 100 stirs). Of course, varnish can be used, as can a couple of other finishes, but they all take multiple coats and are ultimately subject to cracking.   I suggest you stay with the flex coat. Good Luck                                               Dallas, TX                                               Ennis, MT

Response:

In the past I have used Flex Coat to finish off the wraping on guides of the rods that I build.  My question is,  Is there any other coating or adhesive that anyone has used instead of the Flex Coat?  My problems with Flex Coat is that it takes three days for it to dry, and when it is dry the coating doesn’t appear to be very tough. By tough I mean it seems to abraid very easy.  If anyone has any suggestions or has used another method to finish off the threads plaese let me know.                             Paul Grabek

George E. Hoskin The flex-coat is what I have used mostly ("lite" for fly  rods and fresh water rods, "high build" for salt water or larger fresh water rods.  Either should set up in 24 hours.  Make sure you are mixing well (minimum of two minutes) before applying to rod.  If you need any Blanks, hardware or finishes give me a call (1-800-244-7744). I operate a small retail shop here in Maine.   Will be happy to ship you stuff that you need with a visa/mc  number over the phone. I’m always happy to shoot the breeze about flyfishing, tying flies or rod building, etc. Feel free to call 1-800-244-7744 ANYTIME it rings into house and shop both and I usually stau up late.

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Grabek) writes: In the past I have used Flex Coat to finish off the wraping on guides of the rods that I build.  My question is,  Is there any other coating or adhesive that anyone has used instead of the Flex Coat?  My problems with Flex Coat is that it takes three days for it to dry, and when it is dry the coating doesn’t appear to be very tough. By tough I mean it seems to abraid very easy.  If anyone has any suggestions or has used another method to finish off the threads plaese let me know.                            Paul Grabek

This problem was addressed in a series of posts some time back. The solution to your problem is as follows: i) be accurate in mixing 50/50 portions of the resin and hardener and even more important ii) mix thourougly, meaning for at least 2 minutes (or more). I’ve had the same problem in the past, but after following the suggestions of this pub, I’ve had no more problems. Changing to a different brand of epoxy probably won’t help….the principles remain the same. Good luck! Inge Solberg Houston, TX

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Can anyone tell me if there is a rodbuilding newsgroup? Thanks and tight line! Have I yeilded to temptation, but writing this and saying that NO…..I’m

I wish there was a rod building group as well. The satisfaction of making your own rod is great. I recently put a decorative wrap on a couple of my store bought rods and was looking for ideas. It doesn’t catch more fish, just that little extra. If your building a fly rod the saving are significance. The fly rod I built is a 25% saving compared to of the rack. You loose you warranty though, but I think it’s worth having a better rod with no warranty. Than a rod with a warranty and the desire for a better rod for next year.

Response:

<snip I wish there was a rod building group as well. The satisfaction of making your own rod is great. I recently put a decorative wrap on a couple of my store bought rods and was looking for ideas. It doesn’t catch more fish, just that little extra. If your building a fly rod the saving are significance. The fly rod I built is a 25% saving compared to of the rack. You loose you warranty though, but I think it’s worth having a better rod with no warranty. Than a rod with a warranty and the desire for a better rod for next year.

Don’t the manufacturers still back the blank?  Even for a reduced amount of time? Brian

Response:

I wish there was a rod building group as well. The satisfaction of making your own rod is great. I recently put a decorative wrap on a couple of my store bought rods and was looking for ideas. It doesn’t catch more fish, just that little extra. If your building a fly rod the saving are significance. The fly rod I built is a 25% saving compared to of the rack. You loose you warranty though, but I think it’s worth having a better rod with no warranty. Than a rod with a warranty and the desire for a better rod for next year.

Go to http://www.virtualflyshop.com   there is a rod building group there. TL MC

Response:

Try this http://www.rodguild.com/cgi-bin/bbs/bbs.cgi?forum=chat

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I wish there was a rod building group as well. The satisfaction of making your own rod is great. I recently put a decorative wrap on a couple of my store bought rods and was looking for ideas. It doesn’t catch more fish, just that little extra. If your building a fly rod the saving are significance. The fly rod I built is a 25% saving compared to of the rack. You loose you warranty though, but I think it’s worth having a better rod with no warranty. Than a rod with a warranty and the desire for a better rod for next year. Go to http://www.virtualflyshop.com   there is a rod building group there. TL MC

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Can anyone tell me if there is a rodbuilding newsgroup? Thanks and tight line!

Response:

Can anyone tell me if there is a rodbuilding newsgroup? Thanks and tight line!

There are several areas of interest for rod builders. Have a look at http://www.flyanglersonline.com  there is a complete course on ( graphite ) rod-building also try http://www.virtualflyshop.com  lots of info there as well. TL MC

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Can anyone tell me if there is a rodbuilding newsgroup? Thanks and tight line!

Have I yeilded to temptation, but writing this and saying that NO…..I’m

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fishndad, Can anyone tell me if there is a rodbuilding newsgroup? Thanks and tight line!

Not that I know of.  But I’ve seen several posts in this NG on that topic and have a hunch that, if you ask questions on the topic, you’ll get answers here. I’ve built a few rods — with gratifying results right from the first. Here are some misc. opinions, tips, whatever… 1) It ain’t difficult.  The lion’s share of what’s involved is being willing to work deliberately and pay attention to details. 2) You can build  EXCELLENT rods for a fraction of the "store bought" price. 3) If you do nothing else, get the Clemens catalog: Clemens 444 Schantz Road Allentown, PA  18104 The first few pages of the catalog are devoted to the essentials of rod building and the discussion is complete enough to see you through your first project.  As a bonus, it’s a pretty good source of blanks and components. 4) If you’re at all hesitant about building your first rod on a $200 blank, practice on a section of busted rod and/or start with a cheap blank. Wes Peterson LexCraft Data Services

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        Does anyone know the address and phone number of a catalog that sells rod building materials?  Are the guides supposed to go on top of the spine or on the opposite side?  My book says opposite side but most of my rods seem to be on top of the spine. Eric Howe

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In article    Does anyone know the address and phone number of a catalog that sells rod building materials?  Are the guides supposed to go on top of the spine or on the opposite side?  My book says opposite side but most of my rods seem to be on top of the spine. Eric Howe

Fly rods and large ocean rods have the guides opposite the spline. Others on the spline. Two great rod builder catalogs: Dale Clemens – (610) 395-5119   FAX 398-2580   —  Allentown, PA Angler’s Workshop – (360) 225-9445  FAX 225-8641  –  Woodland, WA Don Burns

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       Does anyone know the address and phone number of a catalog that sells rod building materials?  Are the guides supposed to go on top of the spine or on the opposite side?  My book says opposite side but most of my rods seem to be on top of the spine. Eric Howe

For a more thoughtful perspective on this subject, check out the web site for Manhattan Custom Tackle at www.fishdoc.com.  Phil Koenig, the proprietor, suggests a formula based on which way the blank curves, which makes sense.

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For rod building equipement try Cabella’s.  they have lots of stuff and good books too. Brian

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Try: Blue Ridge Rod Company 410-224-4072 FAX 410-224-4072 They deal solely with components for rod building. They do not sell finished rods etc.  They handle most of the name brand blanks (Sage etc.), Pacific Bay guides etc, Strubble, and so forth. You cannot go wrong.  Call or Fax them and they’ll send you a catalogue.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   Does anyone know the address and phone number of a catalog that sells rod building materials?  Are the guides supposed to go on top of the spine or on the opposite side?  My book says opposite side but most of my rods seem to be on top of the spine. Eric Howe For a more thoughtful perspective on this subject, check out the web site for Manhattan Custom Tackle at www.fishdoc.com.  Phil Koenig, the proprietor, suggests a formula based on which way the blank curves, which makes sense.

You might also want to check out the new web site of the Angler’s Workshop located in the graphite rod builder’s paradise of Woodland, Washington (home of G.Loomis, Talon and Lamiglass). Their URL is http://www.anglersworkshop.com Dave Weitl Seattle, WA http://www.halcyon.com/dweitl

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Try Custom Tackle Supply     2559 Hwy 41A S.     Shelbyville, TN 37160     (615) 684-6164 They have all the components, ship quickly, and are great guys who are very helpful.   A good book for rodbuilding:    The Custom Graphite Rod    by Skip Morris In it he gives advice on location of guides relative to spine — for fly rods on the side opposite the spine. The advice on Manhattan Tackle is also very good.  They respond quickly also and offer on-line and phone help. I just recently completed my first rod – a 3wt 7′6" and managed to catch some fish with it.  It didn’t fall apart and it looks great. Keep your fly dry, David

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