Question:

Is there any good website outhere about fly tyiing? I’m not talking fly pattern only (altough that might also interest me!) but a website with a lot of info on how to do it right? Thanks for your always very helpful answer guys! Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

There’s three more than a zillion to be found…….john

Is there any good website outhere about fly tyiing? I’m not talking fly pattern only (altough that might also interest me!) but a website with a lot of info on how to do it right? Thanks for your always very helpful answer guys! Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

begin 666 Fly Tying Lessons and Tips from the Scottish Highlands.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+W=W=RYF+61E86YS+F9R M965S97)V92YC;RYU:R]D969A=6QT+FAT;0T*36]D:69I960]-# T-T9!.3,U +.3 W0D8P,3,T#0H` ` end begin 666 GORP – Great Outdoor Recreation Pages – Fly Tying.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+W=W=RYG;W)P+F-O;2]G M;W)P+W!U8FQI<VAE<G,O3′EO;G-0<F5S<R]F;’ET6EN9RYH=&T-"DUO9&EF 8:65D/38P,#5&,D,)&,#%#00T* ` end begin 666 Killroy’s Leader Formulae.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+W=W=RYK:6QL<F]Y<RYC (0D4P,48X#0H` ` end begin 666 T r o u t f l i e s . c o m.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+W=W=RYT<F]U=&9L:65S D+F-O;2-"DUO9&EF:65D/4,P.#A&,3%&.#DS1$)&,#%$10T* ` end begin 666 The Streamer Page.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+VUE;6)E<G,N:&]M92YN M970O<&-H87)L97,O<W1R96%M97)S+VEN9&5X+FAT;6P-"DUO9&EF:65D/44P 21C,#,T)&,#%%-PT* ` end begin 666 The Virtual Flyshop, Fly Fisherman’s On-Line Network.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+W=W=RYV:7)T=6%L9FQY ` end begin 666 Trout and Fly Fishing.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+V9L2YT;R]T<F]U=’-A ` end

Response:

Is there any good website outhere about fly tyiing? I’m not talking fly pattern only (altough that might also interest me!) but a website with a lot of info on how to do it right?

 Robert,    try <http://www.mwflytying.com/patterns/fly_patterns_page.html        Its a real nice site out of the US Midwest but has patterns and tips that are pretty global.  I go there often.  I’m currently tying up a bunch of the hellgrammite flies for "Rappin’ on the Rappahanock." Its an awesome pattern and easy to tie.  The tip on tying in the rubber legs is great.         Cheers,               Frank Reid Before you buy.

Response:

www.troutflies.com www.flyanglersonline.com www.virtualflybox.com www.killroys.com

Response:

begin 666 Fly Tying Lessons and Tips from the Scottish Highlands.url M6TEN=&5R;F5T4VAO<G1C=71=#0I54DP]:’1T<#HO+W=W=RYF+61E86YS+F9R M965S97)V92YC;RYU:R]D969A=6QT+FAT;0T*36]D:69I960]-# T-T9!.3,U +.3 W0D8P,3,T#0H` ` end

Damn John!  You’re not supposed to be drinking musketell with that shit! — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

Not hate-mail, more.. why?? If all fisheries would close on any holy day of all religions, there would be very little fishing left. If you don’t want to fish on sabbath, by all means, be my guest. But to deny it to people of other (or none) religions is taking it too far. Herman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What’s the URL? It’s a nice web-site.  It’s also nice to see a company closed for the Sabbath.  I wish more fishing lodges would do this. I know.  I know.  I’m going to get hate e-mail for this. — Vern My ROFF page: http://msnhomepages.talkcity.com/ResortRd/v_deloy/ROFFintro.html Before you buy.

–         Cheers, Herman         Herman Nijland         Daytime webmaster         Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Well that is all very well Vern, but whose or which Sabbath ?  In some places the companies would only be able to open two days a week. TL MC — "In order to achieve what is possible, one must constantly attempt the impossible" http://www.mikeconnor.de

Response:

Okay, I understand. I was using the standard Christian Sabbath. I might be suffering from just a little bit of ethocetrism. Just a little. Vern

        oh, hell! ethocetrism, at *your* age?  my grandaddy got a little bait of it when he was about 65, but he whipped it.  doc martin put him on a strict diet of oral sex with foreigners, and he was fit as a fiddle in 30 days.  give it a whirl, vern. wayno, always willing to help an ailing roffian.

Response:

oh, hell! ethocetrism, at *your* age?

At my age? Blackcat is just about my age and look at him. I’m over weight and eat like a fat pit. Sometimes I wonder if I’m having problems. Just thinking about Blackcat scares the hell out of me. Yes at my age. — Vern My ROFF page: http://msnhomepages.talkcity.com/ResortRd/v_deloy/ROFFintro.html Before you buy.

Response:

Thanks James

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – James, the prices on your beat are surely not bad when compared to, for example, most of the british daytickets (for trout – wouldn’t know about salmon). Definitely not ripping off. I came across several payed fisheries in Ireland, some ridiculously expensive, but most of them very reasonably prized, more or less in the same region as your rates. I merely pointed out that apart from the payed fisheries there’s still a wealth of free water around – but you have to take your time to find it and explore it. If I had only a few days I’d probably fish the well-known spots. Good luck with the business, Herman The site is aimed more at the salmon fisherman but as a kid I used to catch the most beautiful brownies here. Regarding the price, I have been looking at other sites and I thought my rates were very reasonable, considering there is no one else going to be fishing the beat and the lodge is fully equipped for self catering…if not, please let me know because my intention in letting the fishery and lodge is to get some good records, not to rip of tourist fishermen. It is fished only infrequently by family and friends who have generally been successful, but I want a more accurate seasonal view of the fishing. James Depends where you’re going. Generally fishing for brown trout in Ireland is *free*. Unless, of course, you choose to fish the well known, regulated waters like for instance the Blackwater. If you like to (or have to, like me) fish on a budget, fish the tributaries, the lochs and all those other lovely streams which are either free or cheap to fish. Last time I was there I bought a year ticket for the Dee in Limerick for about 6 Irish pounds. Herman <snip looks ok, things are getting pricey in Ireland these days from what I gathered. Flyfish Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback on what other information you would like to see on it before I publish the final site. Cheers James — Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher — Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

James

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback James     What’s the URL?

Response:

heh where were you guys when I was in Klonmel (‘88-’89)? fished the Suir then at knocklofty house and had some luck… looks ok, things are getting pricey in Ireland these days from what I gathered. Flyfish

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback on what other information you would like to see on it before I publish the final site. Cheers James

Response:

Depends where you’re going. Generally fishing for brown trout in Ireland is *free*. Unless, of course, you choose to fish the well known, regulated waters like for instance the Blackwater. If you like to (or have to, like me) fish on a budget, fish the tributaries, the lochs and all those other lovely streams which are either free or cheap to fish. Last time I was there I bought a year ticket for the Dee in Limerick for about 6 Irish pounds. Herman

<snip looks ok, things are getting pricey in Ireland these days from what I gathered. Flyfish Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback on what other information you would like to see on it before I publish the final site. Cheers James

–         Cheers, Herman         Herman Nijland         Daytime webmaster         Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

James, the prices on your beat are surely not bad when compared to, for example, most of the british daytickets (for trout – wouldn’t know about salmon). Definitely not ripping off. I came across several payed fisheries in Ireland, some ridiculously expensive, but most of them very reasonably prized, more or less in the same region as your rates. I merely pointed out that apart from the payed fisheries there’s still a wealth of free water around – but you have to take your time to find it and explore it. If I had only a few days I’d probably fish the well-known spots. Good luck with the business, Herman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The site is aimed more at the salmon fisherman but as a kid I used to catch the most beautiful brownies here. Regarding the price, I have been looking at other sites and I thought my rates were very reasonable, considering there is no one else going to be fishing the beat and the lodge is fully equipped for self catering…if not, please let me know because my intention in letting the fishery and lodge is to get some good records, not to rip of tourist fishermen. It is fished only infrequently by family and friends who have generally been successful, but I want a more accurate seasonal view of the fishing. James Depends where you’re going. Generally fishing for brown trout in Ireland is *free*. Unless, of course, you choose to fish the well known, regulated waters like for instance the Blackwater. If you like to (or have to, like me) fish on a budget, fish the tributaries, the lochs and all those other lovely streams which are either free or cheap to fish. Last time I was there I bought a year ticket for the Dee in Limerick for about 6 Irish pounds. Herman <snip looks ok, things are getting pricey in Ireland these days from what I gathered. Flyfish Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback on what other information you would like to see on it before I publish the final site. Cheers James — Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

–         Cheers, Herman         Herman Nijland         Daytime webmaster         Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

What’s the URL?

It’s a nice web-site.  It’s also nice to see a company closed for the Sabbath.  I wish more fishing lodges would do this. I know.  I know.  I’m going to get hate e-mail for this. — Vern My ROFF page: http://msnhomepages.talkcity.com/ResortRd/v_deloy/ROFFintro.html Before you buy.

Response:

The site is aimed more at the salmon fisherman but as a kid I used to catch the most beautiful brownies here. Regarding the price, I have been looking at other sites and I thought my rates were very reasonable, considering there is no one else going to be fishing the beat and the lodge is fully equipped for self catering…if not, please let me know because my intention in letting the fishery and lodge is to get some good records, not to rip of tourist fishermen. It is fished only infrequently by family and friends who have generally been successful, but I want a more accurate seasonal view of the fishing. James

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Depends where you’re going. Generally fishing for brown trout in Ireland is *free*. Unless, of course, you choose to fish the well known, regulated waters like for instance the Blackwater. If you like to (or have to, like me) fish on a budget, fish the tributaries, the lochs and all those other lovely streams which are either free or cheap to fish. Last time I was there I bought a year ticket for the Dee in Limerick for about 6 Irish pounds. Herman <snip looks ok, things are getting pricey in Ireland these days from what I gathered. Flyfish Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback on what other information you would like to see on it before I publish the final site. Cheers James — Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback on what other information you would like to see on it before I publish the final site. Cheers James

Response:

Just finished our new site and I would like a bit of feedback James     What’s the URL?

Response:

Question:

Is there such a thing as "the best waders?"  I’m restarting my fly fishing career after 20 years off and am baffled by neoprene vs. breathables vs. canvas etc.  Is there a brand better than another?  Every fly rodder that I’ve spoken with has a different opinion.  The latest is to buy stocking foot breathables from Orvis. Thanks.

Response:

Is there such a thing as "the best waders?"  I’m restarting my fly fishing career after 20 years off and am baffled by neoprene vs. breathables vs. canvas etc.  Is there a brand better than another?  Every fly rodder that I’ve spoken with has a different opinion.  The latest is to buy stocking foot breathables from Orvis. Thanks.

Simms Guide model breathables. — something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

writes: Is there such a thing as "the best waders?

The best waders are which ever ones fit your needs and your pocket book. You’re right they’re so many out there and most of them work as promised. If money is not an object, breathables Simms Guide Gortex, LL Bean Gortex or the new tough Orvis ones are supposed to be good. I have had the simms for four seasons now. Not a leak yet, very comfortable in the summer but they were and are pricey. If I wear my breathables over fleece pants, I have yet to have a "cold" problem steelheading. I never plan on wearing my neoprenes again. Wayne Knight Geneva IL                            

Response:

I too am in the process of "gearing up".  After speaking with several individuals, an Orvis salesperson, a BassPro rep, and looking through a plethora of magazines and books, I have concluded the following: 1.    Not all waders are created equal. 2.    If you buy a $10 pair of waders, expect a $10 pair of waders. 3.    NO 2 fly fisherman (or sales people) will answer the same question         with the same (or nearly the same) answer. 4.    Waders are a personal choice based on the following:         A.    Area to be fished (ie; hiking 10miles in 6mm neoprene is                 not the most pleasant experience.)         B.    Seasons fished (15 degrees in 45 degree water is no fun                 in lightweight breathables.)         C.    Price range:  Buy the best you can afford while keeping in                 mind what you are going to use them for. Basically, unless you are comparing two specific products, there are no definitive answers.  Think:  Need, Desire, Use, Price.  When in doubt, take along a fly fisherman you trust and have him/her answer the necessary questions on your behalf. Casting is free therapy!!!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is there such a thing as "the best waders?"  I’m restarting my fly fishing career after 20 years off and am baffled by neoprene vs. breathables vs. canvas etc.  Is there a brand better than another?  Every fly rodder that I’ve spoken with has a different opinion.  The latest is to buy stocking foot breathables from Orvis. Thanks.

Response:

Ditto the previous replies. Except for the coldest, most rugged conditions, the breathables are the best bet. I have Hodgmans, which I love. Go with the ones that fit you best; both your body and your pocketbook! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Is there such a thing as "the best waders?"  I’m restarting my fly fishing

Response:

Basically, ditto. Breathables are not only the most comfortable thing I’ve worn in the water (besides an occasional big grin) they are absolutely fantastic for travel. They dry overnight and take almost no space at all when they go back into your suitcase for the morning flight. But if you’re only going to fish a couple of times a year, you have to decide whether they are worth the expense. I like Simms. Ken Ft. Lupton, CO – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – writes: Is there such a thing as "the best waders? The best waders are which ever ones fit your needs and your pocket book. You’re right they’re so many out there and most of them work as promised. Wayne Knight Geneva IL

Response:

Seems like there are a lot of good vendors out there.  I’ve got some LL Bean waist-high breathable waders which I find fantastically comfortable (I fish a lot of small, freestone streams) and have been very durable.  Waist high works much better than hippers (which invariable are 2" too short) and are much more comfortable in hot weather than chest waders.  I almost never miss the extra height of a chest wader (if it’s that deep, you should be fishing in it, not walking in it). I also have a pair of Orvis Chest High breathable waders, which I would give a miss.  The fabric simply isn’t puncture resistant enough. Michael – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ditto the previous replies. Except for the coldest, most rugged conditions, the breathables are the best bet. I have Hodgmans, which I love. Go with the ones that fit you best; both your body and your pocketbook! Is there such a thing as "the best waders?"  I’m restarting my fly fishing

Response:

______  I use Levi  Waders and they are very breathable.  Cheap, too. Mr. G.

Response:

______  I use Levi  Waders and they are very breathable.  Cheap, too. Mr. G.

Plus if you gotta piss it’s  better’n neoprene, eh George? BA

Response:

______  I use Levi  Waders and they are very breathable.  Cheap, too. Mr. G. Plus if you gotta piss it’s  better’n neoprene, eh George? BA

_______   yep. —

Question:

I am based in Los Angeles but had heard about that awful attack on the couple hanging on the anchor line where the gentleman pushed his newly-wed wife outof the way, and he was taken himself off of Australia. Hi Jim As much as I would love to help you with information I would be unable to put you in touch with the lady in question.  The reasons being in the past twelve months she has re-married and also had her first child a month ago. I really think she now has her tramatic experience behind her and is trying to get on with things.

That was a very harrowing experience for her, and I can understand how she would want for it to be behind her. However, your friend can take comfort in knowing that her husband really loved her in doing what he did for her. I did a shark dive last year at Nassau, Bahamas with a lady by the name of Heather Boswell. Before Heather attempted to do a shark dive with me for the NBC WEEKEND TODAY show(which was televised throughout the USA on July 13th, 1997), Heather had been attacked by a five meter plus white shark while she was swimming on the ocean surface over a hundred miles offshore of Chile. Heather was swimming with some friends in calm seas off of a NOAA research vessel that they were crewing on. A friend was videotaping them all in the water(and captured the attack on video in the process)when a huge dorsal fin appeared(Heather later indicated that it looked to be at least a meter tall above the water as it approached her). The shark started attacking a gentleman who was sitting upon some type of surfboard. He managed to drive it away by apparently poking the shark in the eye. The shark then turned its attention to Heather who was nearby in the water. Rescuers were trying to reach Heather in an inflatable boat which was dispatched from the larger NOAA vessel. They actually had a hold of her before the shark started to attack Heather. However, because of the sunscreen lotion that Heather was wearing, she slipped through the arms of the one of the rescuers, and the shark grabbed her leg and started to take her down into the depths. It was at that point that Heather felt sure she was going to die according to what she told me and NBC. She just wasn’t sure if she should intake water to drown herself or simply let the shark continue to eat her and die that way. Amazingly, the shark returned Heather to the surface at which point the rescuers were able to grab her again. However, this time the rescuers were in a "tug-of-war" with the shark, and Heather was the "rope". Heather heard a "popping sound"(thinking that her leg was being dislocated)as she broke free. However, once inside the boat, Heather looked down and saw that her leg had been bitten off at mid-thigh(Heather lost a lot of blood and almost died via exsanguination/shock). Meanwhile, the shark must have been very hungry as it started to attack another lady who was desperately trying to pull herself out of the water (using netting which was thrown over the side of the NOAA vessel). However, the lady was overweight and was having a very difficult time getting herself out of the water. At that time, a high-powered rifle was finally deployed to drive the shark away. It is assumed that the shark was killed, but this is not known for sure. I am all for the conservation of shark species worldwide. However, the above situation was an obvious exception. Over a year after the above attack, Heather showed amazing courage by accepting an invitation to shark dive with me in the Bahamas for the NBC WEEKEND TODAY television program. However, once the sharks appeared on scene with us at Nassau, Heather requested to discontinue the dive(understandably so). Nonetheless, her courage for even attempting the dive and the positive attitude that she radiates in her daily life are inspiration to us all. Eco continues about diver(newly-wed couple)who was killed by a white shark off of Australia: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – One of the US talkback shows contacted her some time back (they were doing a show on tragic widows) and offered to fly her over to appear but she clearly had no desire to go through the events again.  Understandably so. I do not have any clearer details of the attack except what I posted.  The attack happened at Byron Bay which is considered out of the usual territory of a white pointer (it was in warm water up north).  The attack was quick. They saw it on the bottom, her husband pushed her and by the time she managed to turn around she only felt the force of the sharks tail. I’ve forgotton the exact size but from what I can remember it was the max. for the species.  A fishing boat did later hook it, it was longer than the boat, and it dragged the boat for miles, it regurgitated some stomach contents and broke free. There was talk of it being a sick/rogue shark due to its location. I am most interested to see if such electronic shark repellent technology could have prevented the above attack. I was the first to test the SharkPOD in the USA(off the coast of Los Angeles for the Discovery Channel, "Next Step" television program which is to be broadcast internationally if it hasn’t been already-it has already been broadcast twice throughout the USA. Ron and Valerie Taylor were the first to test the SharkPOD in Australia. I had met them both in Singapore during the ADEC dive equipment trade show where the SharkPOD was first being released commercially. You’ve met Ron and Val Taylor !!!  Now they are shark lovers extraordinaire !!!!   That Val Taylor is one brave lady.  Amazingly dedicated couple.

Yes, I had met both of them and have been in touch with them via email from time to time. I am a fan of their work as well. For more detail on my SharkPOD testing, please access the Honolulu Star- Bulletin Newspaper article which I had appeared in throughout the Hawaiian Islands on December 22, 1997: http://starbulletin.com/97/12/22/features/index.html Sounds really exciting !   I remember seeing a show where they were investigating using  some sort of sonar "wall" instead of netting.   IE; transmitter placed and one point – receiver at other end further down the coastline to prevent sharks entering the swimming area.  They were testing the concept with some sort of sonar wand that repelled the sharks. It was tricky stuff as the shark had to get close enough for them to prod it with the want but it was trying to ascertain whether the idea would work.  Do you know of any developments with this??

Not really. But will look into it for you. I am all for anything that helps the sharks and other sea creatures.  Our shark nets over here are marine animal death traps.

Me too. Did you see my earlier post on how the shark netting program in South Africa was being reduced because of budget cuts to the Natal Sharks Board (which supervises the netting program there)? The Star-Bulletin article was mostly accurate. However, the SharkPOD is not a "sonic" device as the article mistakenly depicts in the opening paragraph. Instead, the SharkPOD emits a continuous, cocooning electrical field which is intended to protect from possible shark attack. I will soon be using another electronic shark repellent technology which is currently being developed in Australia(by another manufacturer)and is being billed as an even more effective electronic repellent than the SharkPOD. I will be using this Australian technology with tiger and grey reef sharks throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Also with tiger, bull and lemon sharks in the Bahamas. And with great white sharks off of Dyer Island, South Africa. Thank you for providing your information.  It was very interesting.  I have been lucky enough to encounter sharks while diving – something one doesn’t forget in a hurry !!

Agreed! Look forward to email exchanging with you again.

Response:

Ok, another story about shark attacks…this is getting so old!  Last time I heard, this was a FISHING newsgroup, one that as the name might imply is interested in how fish might be caught, NOT stupid humans being caught by the fish…and with sharks being chondricthes (as opposed to osteicthes–bony fish) I wonder if they officially qualify for discussion anyway.  You probably (if not, you need to) have read my opinion on the consequences of tomfoolery which results in such a mess; why the people don’t learn the first time is beyond me.   Unless you are suggesting in some lurid way that human chum is an acceptable fishing method, which I certainly would not advocate, I would like it if you could thin out the number of shark attack reports.  This is not a tabloid newsgroup.  Please help keep it that way. See also Re: Sharks, Re: Reduction in budget for… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am based in Los Angeles but had heard about that awful attack on the couple hanging on the anchor line where the gentleman pushed his newly-wed wife outof the way, and he was taken himself off of Australia. Hi Jim As much as I would love to help you with information I would be unable to put you in touch with the lady in question.  The reasons being in the past twelve months she has re-married and also had her first child a month ago. I really think she now has her tramatic experience behind her and is trying to get on with things. That was a very harrowing experience for her, and I can understand how she would want for it to be behind her. However, your friend can take comfort in knowing that her husband really loved her in doing what he did for her. I did a shark dive last year at Nassau, Bahamas with a lady by the name of Heather Boswell. Before Heather attempted to do a shark dive with me for the NBC WEEKEND TODAY show(which was televised throughout the USA on July 13th, 1997), Heather had been attacked by a five meter plus white shark while she was swimming on the ocean surface over a hundred miles offshore of Chile. Heather was swimming with some friends in calm seas off of a NOAA research vessel that they were crewing on. A friend was videotaping them all in the water(and captured the attack on video in the process)when a huge dorsal fin appeared(Heather later indicated that it looked to be at least a meter tall above the water as it approached her). The shark started attacking a gentleman who was sitting upon some type of surfboard. He managed to drive it away by apparently poking the shark in the eye. The shark then turned its attention to Heather who was nearby in the water. Rescuers were trying to reach Heather in an inflatable boat which was dispatched from the larger NOAA vessel. They actually had a hold of her before the shark started to attack Heather. However, because of the sunscreen lotion that Heather was wearing, she slipped through the arms of the one of the rescuers, and the shark grabbed her leg and started to take her down into the depths. It was at that point that Heather felt sure she was going to die according to what she told me and NBC. She just wasn’t sure if she should intake water to drown herself or simply let the shark continue to eat her and die that way. Amazingly, the shark returned Heather to the surface at which point the rescuers were able to grab her again. However, this time the rescuers were in a "tug-of-war" with the shark, and Heather was the "rope". Heather heard a "popping sound"(thinking that her leg was being dislocated)as she broke free. However, once inside the boat, Heather looked down and saw that her leg had been bitten off at mid-thigh(Heather lost a lot of blood and almost died via exsanguination/shock). Meanwhile, the shark must have been very hungry as it started to attack another lady who was desperately trying to pull herself out of the water (using netting which was thrown over the side of the NOAA vessel). However, the lady was overweight and was having a very difficult time getting herself out of the water. At that time, a high-powered rifle was finally deployed to drive the shark away. It is assumed that the shark was killed, but this is not known for sure. I am all for the conservation of shark species worldwide. However, the above situation was an obvious exception. Over a year after the above attack, Heather showed amazing courage by accepting an invitation to shark dive with me in the Bahamas for the NBC WEEKEND TODAY television program. However, once the sharks appeared on scene with us at Nassau, Heather requested to discontinue the dive(understandably so). Nonetheless, her courage for even attempting the dive and the positive attitude that she radiates in her daily life are inspiration to us all. Eco continues about diver(newly-wed couple)who was killed by a white shark off of Australia: One of the US talkback shows contacted her some time back (they were doing a show on tragic widows) and offered to fly her over to appear but she clearly had no desire to go through the events again.  Understandably so. I do not have any clearer details of the attack except what I posted.  The attack happened at Byron Bay which is considered out of the usual territory of a white pointer (it was in warm water up north).  The attack was quick. They saw it on the bottom, her husband pushed her and by the time she managed to turn around she only felt the force of the sharks tail. I’ve forgotton the exact size but from what I can remember it was the max. for the species.  A fishing boat did later hook it, it was longer than the boat, and it dragged the boat for miles, it regurgitated some stomach contents and broke free. There was talk of it being a sick/rogue shark due to its location. I am most interested to see if such electronic shark repellent technology could have prevented the above attack. I was the first to test the SharkPOD in the USA(off the coast of Los Angeles for the Discovery Channel, "Next Step" television program which is to be broadcast internationally if it hasn’t been already-it has already been broadcast twice throughout the USA. Ron and Valerie Taylor were the first to test the SharkPOD in Australia. I had met them both in Singapore during the ADEC dive equipment trade show where the SharkPOD was first being released commercially. You’ve met Ron and Val Taylor !!!  Now they are shark lovers extraordinaire !!!!   That Val Taylor is one brave lady.  Amazingly dedicated couple. Yes, I had met both of them and have been in touch with them via email from time to time. I am a fan of their work as well. For more detail on my SharkPOD testing, please access the Honolulu Star- Bulletin Newspaper article which I had appeared in throughout the Hawaiian Islands on December 22, 1997: http://starbulletin.com/97/12/22/features/index.html Sounds really exciting !   I remember seeing a show where they were investigating using  some sort of sonar "wall" instead of netting.   IE; transmitter placed and one point – receiver at other end further down the coastline to prevent sharks entering the swimming area.  They were testing the concept with some sort of sonar wand that repelled the sharks. It was tricky stuff as the shark had to get close enough for them to prod it with the want but it was trying to ascertain whether the idea would work.  Do you know of any developments with this?? Not really. But will look into it for you. I am all for anything that helps the sharks and other sea creatures.  Our shark nets over here are marine animal death traps. Me too. Did you see my earlier post on how the shark netting program in South Africa was being reduced because of budget cuts to the Natal Sharks Board (which supervises the netting program there)? The Star-Bulletin article was mostly accurate. However, the SharkPOD is not a "sonic" device as the article mistakenly depicts in the opening paragraph. Instead, the SharkPOD emits a continuous, cocooning electrical field which is intended to protect from possible shark attack. I will soon be using another electronic shark repellent technology which is currently being developed in Australia(by another manufacturer)and is being billed as an even more effective electronic repellent than the SharkPOD. I will be using this Australian technology with tiger and grey reef sharks throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Also with tiger, bull and lemon sharks in the Bahamas. And with great white sharks off of Dyer Island, South Africa. Thank you for providing your information.  It was very interesting.  I have been lucky enough to encounter sharks while diving – something one doesn’t forget in a hurry !! Agreed! Look forward to email exchanging with you again.

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Don’t be so insecure, Muskie; nobody’s looking down their nose at you. In terms of making the kinds of choices you describe, e.g. where to fish, what kind of fish to fish for and etc., the reason the vast majority of people fish the way they do is *not* ethics, its aesthetic preference

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As far as catching grayling, it may make a difference where you will be fishing. I have fished the Alaska Peninsula for grayling several times.  In those waters I have used humpies, elk hair caddis (black body), and brown drake patterns with the most success.  All flies were tied on no. 12 hooks.  The guide I was with liked the irresistable. To a lesser extent, we have taken   grayling with a Royal Coachman and have had those fish hit a deer hair mouse while fishing for rainbows. Interestingly, almost all articles I have read mention using black gnats for grayling.  For all the times I have tried these flies, I have *never* caught a grayling with one.  Consequently, I have a bunch of these that don’t seem to have a use. Always hit it like you mean it, Steve  

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Could someone recommend some patterns for arctic grayling?  I went out for them a couple of years ago and had a great time.  I want to go again this year and could use some advice on patterns and tactics.

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 Could someone recommend some patterns for arctic grayling?  I went out for  them a couple of years ago and had a great time.  I want to go again this  year and could use some advice on patterns and tactics.

We have had great success with caddis patterns, particularly Elk Hair Caddis size 12 and 14. However, the Grayling need time to come up from the bottom so give the drift a chance. They will often take the dry as it goes under at the turn. Don’t be afraid to wake the fly in short retrieves back to you.

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Could someone recommend some patterns for arctic grayling?  I went out for them a couple of years ago and had a great time.  I want to go again this year and could use some advice on patterns and tactics.

They’re not really sophisticated, especially in Alaska, the Yukon or NWT. I had one take a #2 streamer meant for pike Use a fly you can see – for dries, try the Wulff series, Humpies, or the dry version of a black gnat, all in sizes 8-14. In lakes, they like to congregate where the wind accumulates surface scum – reefs (e.g. in Great Slave) are great. For streams, just think of them as a really dumb (but beautiful) trout. One key note – on dries, they tend to rise in a corkscrew spiral (perhaps their vision is poor). They sometimes miss the fly, and have to take a second try. Don’t strike too soon. — 3798 Woodland Drive     voice: (604) 368-9315 Trail, BC               data:  (604) 368-9341

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I

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These are great…very innovative, easy to use, and much safer than the conventional float tubes.  I’m not saying the conventionals are unsafe, but the Hobie is made of hard plastic pontoons that won’t puncture. They are also very comfortable and keep more of you out of the water.  Better back support than the conventional tubes, too.  The seat is sturdy and comfortable.  They look great, too!  Let me know if you have more questions.

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Has anyone had any experience with Hobie Float Cat kick boats? I am thinking of buying one and would appreciate comments. For those that don’t know… The Float Cat is a kick boat with rigid poly pontoons and aluminum frame. Thanks in advance.

I haven’t had any personal experience with the Hobie, but it raises the question:  why bother with rigid poly pontoons when you can have inflatable.  I recently purchased an 8′ kickboat made by Outcast and am extremely pleased with it.  It has PVC/polyester fabric tubes (25 oz bottoms/18 oz tops) with a clever 3 piece alumimum frame.  Whole thing breaks down to a *very* compact package and assembles in a couple of minutes (maybe 5 minutes w/ inflation).  Furthermore, fully assembled, it’s still light enough to easily transport and carry (probably 50#, with gear).  Rows beautifully – extremely fast and requires very little effort.   The main thing however is the hulls:  the PVC fabric, while rigid enough to support the frame, is also resilient enough to bounce off rocks, trees, etc.  And even if the outer hull material punctures, the air remains confined by the inner urethane bladder.  Rigid PVC is not very flexible.  I’m afraid that slamming a rock, particularly broadside could crack or hole a rigid hull (happens all the time with fiberglass drift boats).   There’s a reason inflatables dominate the river-running scene and it isn’t cost (a fully equipped 12′ raft runs about $4,000 these days): fact is their light weight and durability are nearly ideal for moving water.   -Wes Wes Neuenschwander Seattle, WA

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Has anyone had any experience with Hobie Float Cat kick boats? I am thinking of buying one and would appreciate comments. For those that don’t know… The Float Cat is a kick boat with rigid poly pontoons and aluminum frame. Thanks in advance. —  /// John Kleist, Colorado Climate Center, CSU, Fort Collins CO 80523   \ \        URL:http://ulysses.atmos.colostate.edu/~johnk/                ///

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Can I add to John Kliest’s request for information?  If anyone has experience using these pontoon boats on rivers, I would be interested in observations and comments.  My objective would be to use it in Montana on certain – emphasize certain – rivers to do my own floats.  On the other hand, I would prefer to live a bit longer than my current age, if only to fish, and thus am not inclined to take unecessary risks.  Thanks.                                     Mark Faulkner

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Can I add to John Kliest’s request for information?  If anyone has experience using these pontoon boats on rivers, I would be interested in observations and comments.  My objective would be to use it in Montana on certain – emphasize certain – rivers to do my own floats.  On the other hand, I would prefer to live a bit longer than my current age, if only to fish, and thus am not inclined to take unecessary risks.  Thanks.                                    Mark Faulkner

Hi Mark, My wife and I have been using pontoon boats in Montana for the past five years. Water Otter with a rowing systme is what we currently own however there are several very good pontoon crafts on the market. We use them on the Madison, Missouri, Big Horn, Yellowstone, Big Hole, Gallatin, etc. and love them. As in any craft on the water you need to be aware of your surroundings. Under water trees, rocks, etc. can be dangerous in any kind of a boat including the pontoon boat. I’ve only had one close call in the five years and it was my fault. I had driven all night to get to the Big Horn River and decided to fish anyway. You know how it is, escaping from corporate America for a few days. I fell a sleep while floating the river and run one the pontoons up on a partly submerged rock. The rock just about turned over the boat but fortunately did not. I certainly woke up. That was a close enough call. I banked the boat and slept for a couple of hours before continuing the float. Now that I’ve been downsized out of corporate America I live in Bozeman, Montana where I work as a guide. Usually I guide customers in my drift boat but do have several client who like fishing out of the pontoon craft. The craft is also great when guiding float tubing clients because I can navigate rapidly (and with little effort) between customers to assist/instruct, etc., even if the wind is blowing. And the wind blows often in Montana. I think you will enjoy a pontoon boat. I do not own a Buck Bag pontoon boat but have operated a friend’s boat and like it a lot. I understand from Dave Corcoran at the River’s Edge here in Bozeman that the Buck’s is the best buy for the money in his opinion. If you are interested I saw they had one of the new models in stock when I stopped by yesterday. For more information you can call them at 406-586-5373. Good luck and let me know how things work out for you regarding these great boats. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Advice to the new fisherman, don’t ‘glerk’ off the fish…(trim)

Sound advice, Tim.  But for a minute there I thought you were going to resurrect the rather steamy trout tickling thread that sort of grew on everyone a while back.  Good word, glerk.  Sounds vaguely like what you’d get by crossing a goof with a jerk.  And we certainly have an abundance of both casting their wits into this particular cyberpond. John

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Go to Wal Mart and buy a fly pole, reel, line and flys. Then go to your local river and do it. The rest comes with practice and experience. That’s how most of us do it.

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: Try to think like an animal that has a pea size brain and is : scared to death. : …this is a wild animal who is always frightened. : Fish live in a perpetual state of being "always frightened" and : "scared to death"! Yet, they have "a pea size brain". : What absolute trash! Where do you get this anthropomorphic : hogwash? Come on, Jim.  Tim said you would be a better fly angler if you learned to empathize with the animal.  Have you ever seen a wild trout?  They behave exactly as if they were always threatened (except for the occassional frenzy when hoppers blow into the water, perhaps).   They prefer to feed close to cover, they are VERY sensative to movement from above, they spook easilly if you make much noise. I agree completely with Tim: think of fish as frightened wild animals and you’ll understand them better and catch more…even if they aren’t frightened in a human way. I’d also add: think of them as very, very lazy.  They don’t like to feed on tiny things in fast water: it’s too tiring.  They don’t like swimming up through six feet of water when food is available in three feet.  They like the cushy pillow of current behind a rock on the bottom.  etc. etc. PS-Their brains really ARE pea sized. — Laboratory for Applied Logic    Dept. of Computer Science University of Idaho             www: http://www.cs.uidaho.edu/~foster —–BEGIN PGP PUBLIC KEY BLOCK—– Version: 2.6.2 mQCNAzDtvLEAAAEEAKAC21G2Be0K0DMgjLpxrwLmsYfCz8rWcfgyABjr3Ryfk1dO nV7fFFpUF3xohR7die+/B2V9oqRQzTLeSF2ECKlsTY/yUyw2kn+P2ju1umh4Fwzd cVTvc+H69q1+Ft3kmw/PE0Pan+g0PUGGJ43stw3q4OgBHdixbRd/f9giJFDxAAUR tCZKYW1lcyBBLiBGb3N0ZXIgPGZvc3RlckBjcy51aWRhaG8uZWR1PokAlQMFEDD8 ReEXf3/YIiRQ8QEBFrAD/2AFuRWcD/3MENC3qJMC/Or1qxknjkK7Uv+TDf2LHPOY GHBbG9PyWuXQ8of0Dd+JYwf/tzlO9Yk1s1zTdikfriak21FW0bCokxDIhA3myppZ IZDWVA9CyvDYHuP5Ii1NkBvocab813JzDLZA+0iVN5sebGb9zSXR4Za47hlriHeP =RDHK —–END PGP PUBLIC KEY BLOCK—–

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Try to think like an animal that has a pea size brain and is scared to death. …this is a wild animal who is always frightened.

 Obviously you’ve never encountered native browns, ordinarily very wary…during a heavy sulphur, hendrickson, x_drake or salmonfly hatch. …I feel sorry for you…You’ve been missing some of nature’s unique events. tight_lines,             Steve D.

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: writes:

: I know A little but not much,Any tips on casting or anything would help : me. I don’t know where you live, but if you’re near a university or community college, be sure to check out their catalogues and any possible community enrichment programs.  Here at UI we have fly tying classes in the PhysEd Curriculum.  At nearby Washington State University they have flyfishing classes in PhysEd, taught by no less than Dave Engerbretson.  I learned to cast from Dave at a community enrichment summer program here (and from a friend with whom I fish).   — Laboratory for Applied Logic    Dept. of Computer Science University of Idaho             www: http://www.cs.uidaho.edu/~foster —–BEGIN PGP PUBLIC KEY BLOCK—– Version: 2.6.2 mQCNAzDtvLEAAAEEAKAC21G2Be0K0DMgjLpxrwLmsYfCz8rWcfgyABjr3Ryfk1dO nV7fFFpUF3xohR7die+/B2V9oqRQzTLeSF2ECKlsTY/yUyw2kn+P2ju1umh4Fwzd cVTvc+H69q1+Ft3kmw/PE0Pan+g0PUGGJ43stw3q4OgBHdixbRd/f9giJFDxAAUR tCZKYW1lcyBBLiBGb3N0ZXIgPGZvc3RlckBjcy51aWRhaG8uZWR1PokAlQMFEDD8 ReEXf3/YIiRQ8QEBFrAD/2AFuRWcD/3MENC3qJMC/Or1qxknjkK7Uv+TDf2LHPOY GHBbG9PyWuXQ8of0Dd+JYwf/tzlO9Yk1s1zTdikfriak21FW0bCokxDIhA3myppZ IZDWVA9CyvDYHuP5Ii1NkBvocab813JzDLZA+0iVN5sebGb9zSXR4Za47hlriHeP =RDHK —–END PGP PUBLIC KEY BLOCK—–

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snippage Catch some bugs.

Yes.  If you can’t find the bugs, this should be a clue. It amazes me how few people get this part.

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Fish live in a perpetual state of being "always frightened" and "scared to death"! Yet, they have "a pea size brain". What absolute trash! Where do you get this anthropomorphic hogwash? No wait, let me guess….

Gosh Jim, You’re right, I’m wrong.  I do *not* know what a fish thinks when it heads for the big mossy on sight of an osprey a flyline or your masculane visage. I did, wrongly, associate fear with this behavior.  Let’s call this running and hiding ‘glerk’ just so there is no anthropromorphism, ok ?  I mean, it would be wrong to say ’spook the fish’, too…right ? Advice to the new fisherman, don’t ‘glerk’ off the fish, they’re tough to catch with their snoot under a rock. Thanks Jim, for pointing this out. Tim Walker

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It’s hard to say but I suggest that you go to the library or a bookstore and get a few books. That has been very helpful for me

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Go to a local shop and see if they offer a casting clinic.  Will save you years of trial and error and lots of wasted time untying knots.  Would recommend the Essence of Flycasting (Vol. I) by mel Krieger for a concise intro to flycasting.  If CA is an option, e-mail me and I will send you a schedule of classes.

Hi Dan, I certainly agree with your suggestion. I advise people (like you) to get training from a person who knows – a flyshop person, a club member, or a school instructor. Good Tying & Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Go to a local shop and see if they offer a casting clinic.  Will save you years of trial and error and lots of wasted time untying knots.  [SNIP]

With all due respect, This casting business is highly overrated.  Casting should be the *last* thing taught in flyfishing, not the first. (IMHO).   Take out two rod lengths of line…no more, and work on stealth and line control.  If you can’t cast a rod length or two after a couple of minutes, take up carving gnomes in wood. Learn some simple knots…hell use overhand knots, the fish won’t care. Tie ‘em on man and go fishin’ ! This is not rocket science. Fish bait for a few seasons and lures and stuff.  Learn to read the water. Catch some bugs.   Try to think like an animal that has a pea size brain and is scared to death.  Try to put food in front of its face just like you imagine it would look if it were real.   Don’t be a dork wading like an elephant in a white shirt…this is a wild animal who is always frightened.  Respect that…and you will catch fish. TimW "Graduated Line Method of Flyfishing Learning"

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I know A little but not much,Any tips on casting or anything would help me.                                           Thanks                                                                   Brent

Sorry Brent But that question is just too broad to try and answer in a message. I just started out last year and this is what I can suggest 1) Scientific Anglers, LL Bean, Lefty Kreh all have videos to help you get started, as well as there are many books out there to get you started. 2)Go out to a local flyfishing shop and see if they offer course, believe me it is much easier if you start out right, then starting with the wrong techniqwue and trying to correct it later. 3) Grab a cheap-o rod and start practising… Tyson

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I know A little but not much,Any tips on casting or anything would help me.                                            Thanks                                                                          Brent

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Question:

Does any organization or book publish a national or regional list of fishing outfitters (looking for all types, fly, deep sea, etc.)? Thanks in advance for your help. Dennis Galotti

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You will find some outfitters in Outdoors Online, this is a web site located at http://www.wsa.com/ool/ool1home.html… hope this helps FishNews (World of Fishing at www.fishingworld.com)

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Question:

I know this has been posted before but I can’t find my copy of the file.  Can anyone let me know where the NF outlets are (I’m mainly interested in the SF area) and when they might be having another sale?                         Mucho,                           Kevin

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I spent a few days in Baxter (actually Millinocket) last summer.  Baxter camping sites are reserved well in advance; doubt you can get in for this summer, maybe shoulder season like Sept. will work better.  Appalachia Trail’s ends (or begins depending upon point of view) at top of Katadin; maybe you can hike in and camp along trail?  I know the trail goes by a nice river at the border of  the park and the Golden Road; don’t know about other fishing venues.  Hope this helps.

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I would like to possibly spend a week or two at Baxter this summer. Information on good solitary tent sites and fly fishing possibilities would be much apreciated.                 Thanks,

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