Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I bet you that Petah is furiously typing away right this minute, writing something that he will call a "trip report" but that will be nothing but a slanderous document full of lies.  He’ll say that he drank me under the table, that he caught a fish while I didn’t, that I tried to send him down a dead-end lane and almost caused an accident with a UPS truck, and all sorts of other total fabrications.  So I better set things straight right now. First and most important is this nonsense about drinking me under the table.  Well,  well, well, so….. well, maybe it’s kinda true.  But it was just a little table anyhoo, so who cares anyway ?  Everyone knows that Russians don’t drink, so what the hell was I supposed to do ? Now on to that supposed fish of his.  He says he took a picture, no less.  The critical piece of information is that THERE WERE NO WITNESSES.  Heck, I was fishing within 100 feet of the guy all day.  And all of a sudden, he pops up to tell me that he "caught" a fish. Sure.  Everyone who is anyone *knows* that there are no fish in 18 Mile Creek.  Either one of them, actually.  And then there is this malicious fabrication about my driving.  I really don’t want to go down that road, so let’s let it pass.  The UPS truck, that is….

[sounds of furious typing followed by pounding on the delete key] Well I was going to write all about your wonderful hospitality, your generous provision of ample alcoholic beverages while I tried to concentrate on mounting backing and lines on six spools.  Don’t forget sleeping in, nearly jumping (falling) out of bed when I woke you, scrambling the eggs inside and outside the pan.  Then there was the animated sugar bowl.  Especially apropos after you warned me. I particularly enjoyed getting locked out. Getting lost on the way to 18 mile wasn’t bad – especially the, "Are we going east, north, south or west?" bit or my favourite, "Where’s the sun?"  and the always popular, "This spot doesn’t look like it used to.  Maybe it’s the wrong spot?" Oh, don’t forget the seat belt test on Sturgeon Point Road – especially enjoyable while nursing a hangover.  The seat belt works, BTW.  The UPS driver took it all in stride – I think he knew you. Mustn’t forget the Artpark – like let’s park as far away as possible then take the Niagara Gorge obstacle course route to the water.  For a man who falls down on level ground . . . . Best of all, "I caught a steelhead!  I caught a steelhead!  And you didn’t!!!  nah, nah"   That was fun.  When we gonna do it again? Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://home.cogeco.ca/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

That was fun.  When we gonna do it again? Well, now that you’ve worked out the anger, I think that it may be safe for me to think about another one.  You drive next time, tho:  I can’t stand the suspense.

ooooh, I can hardly wait.  Ask Forty.  <BSEG Actually, a thought just occurred to me – Forty put you up to it, didn’t he?  He wanted to see me as a helpless, post-inebriated passenger.  Where’s my shit list . . . (cue the ominous music) BTW, I don’t get angry, I get even. <EG and for the rest of ROFF readership, here follows the real TR. I won’t bore you with the preliminaries as that has already (ahem) been discussed. When someone tells you about a new creek, describes it a bit, one forms a mental image of the place.  The prosaic name ‘18 Mile Creek’ doesn’t do justice to the place, nor did my mental image.  Winding through a gorge cut into the shale, it’s one of the prettiest places that I’ve visited in the Great Lakes area and we were seeing her at her worst – bereft of greenery.  The water was high and off colour, my favourite steelhead conditions, as I find the fish to be quite bold in such water.  We had experienced an early spring snowfall so the creek is full of cold meltwater.  It is a bit busy, being a holiday Friday, but room was found to work. Greg picked a large flat that usually held fish while I scouted for other water.  I was looking for a ’step’ arrangement – chutes or riffles separated by moderate to deep flats or pools.  I find that steelies congregate either at the base of the chute in preparation for their run up, or where the chute tails out into the pool, where they seem to ‘catch their breath’ as it were.  I’ve hooked most of my steelhead from this type of water, I suppose, because the fish are just resting and not otherwise occupied. I have a favourite pattern for this colour water – it’s a large, marabou purple and black spey tied spider style.  On some, I’ll add an overwing of purple crystal flash.  I only had two of these left, one large winged version, and one smaller one, sans wing.  The winged version hooked me a steelhead within about five minutes of fishing – a nice, very fat hen of about 5 or 6 lbs.  She was in her mating colours but still somewhat bright – a nice fish in good shape.  I kept her in water while I took a picture and removed the hook – she was off like a bullet as soon as I moved her deeper. Both of us moved about and Greg tried the other side where another creek flows in to meet the main branch.  I was working close by and hooked another fish on the dangle just as I was about to cast. Earlier, I had lost the winged P&B on a rock, now I lost the small one on the fish as I popped it off when I lifted the rod to cast (didn’t realize I had a fish on.)  Greg had found a really nice spot but wasn’t rewarded with a fish.  We both had some bumps and I found that the P&Bs enticed a few hits, but either the fish didn’t like the other patterns or they had shut down for it was pretty quiet after that. We were having a chat about where to fish next when a family horde descended down the path.  "Artpark" was an instant, unanimous decision.  The Artpark sits on the side of the Niagara River and again, didn’t live up to my mental image as I had pictured the park extending close to that water.  It doesn’t.  This requires either a descent along the side of the gorge wall, or a trek down stairs.  You already know about our route.  I had taken the big stick down, with the Airflo shooting head – a perfect spot for it, I thought. The Niagara River seems boil right in front of us with huge eddies, upwellings and these deceptive flats that are actually very fast laminar flows.  Last time out spey casting with the big stick had been on a beach and a pier.  This was neither.  The jumbled, broken rock thrusts up it’s gnarled knuckles to snare your unsuspecting fly.  Let the line swing on the dangle and it’s snatched away.  Like a witch’s cauldron, the turbulent water sucks the line down – at times I’m retrieving line almost vertically out of the water – so normal line lifts are impossible.  Distance casting isn’t necessary as the fish holding water only extends out about 60′-70′ which is a good thing as the changing currents and other difficulties were making normal methods useless.  I resorted to stripping in most of the head into the guides, roll cast out most of it then spey cast out the 70′ – not pretty but it sorta worked.  Unfortunately, I managed to lose a bunch of flies before I figured this out.   Greg, being the master of the Artpark, was casting away, unperturbed by the conditions.  Greg got a bump but I only felt rock.  So endeth the day. Thank you Mr. Greg. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://home.cogeco.ca/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Question:

attend the clave at that time of the year. It’s *the* busy season for me. Tearfully, please scrub my name from the list….. Walt Sorry th hear that you won’t be able to attend due to work. Please don’t forget to send your lovely wife to represent the Winter family. Big Dale

how the hell did wayno get on to yer machine bd? waldo

Response:

attend the clave at that time of the year. It’s *the* busy season for me. Tearfully, please scrub my name from the list….. Walt

Sorry th hear that you won’t be able to attend due to work. Please don’t forget to send your lovely wife to represent the Winter family. Big Dale

Response:

Sorry th hear that you won’t be able to attend due to work. Please don’t forget to send your lovely wife to represent the Winter family. Big Dale

And Big Dale being the consumate Southern Gentleman that he is will be sure Marie does not lack in frozen alcoholic concoctions with paper umbrellas and all manor of Cajun inspired culinary contrivances. — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

Response:

1.  Likely dates and number (Wife, SO, kids, etc.) of attendance.

Just me and the dates you suggest, I will be there. 2.  Desired "target" (Fresh, Salt, Both, Whatever’s there – also, indicate any interest in "bluewater" offshore game fishing.)

I would love both fresh and salt water, but I have not salt water gear….ummm honey, Richard wants to talk with you…Would it be possible to rent salt water fly equipment or would my 7 weight and old Pflueger work OK? I could get the maid to rinse it out each night for me. 3.  If you wish assistance on travel, let me know your location and nearby airports (or ones you can live with).

My closest airport is Portland, Oregon PDX… 4.  Contact information.

If I die, send my ashes to my current spouse of 26 years at: (360) 944-7601 5.  Where you prefer to stay if you want assistance in this area.

A dirt cheap hotel/motel would be great, but not rented by the hour if you know what I mean… As to where we all go, I think you should decide, Oh Clavemaster.  Besides I don’t speak the local language anyway, I will need an interpretor.  How do you say "No Budweiser, por favor" in the local tongue. I would love a budget suggestion for motel, car rental (do I need one?), licenses, equipment rental (if applicable), stuff like that… Chris Fanning

Response:

The current name is: Crawlin’ in N’Awlins 2000: Toasted on the Coast My suggestions for the name: Mardi Clave Clavi gra

The Fat Clave?  Er, is that in Kilobrandos?  <G  I suspect some atttendees might not like that…. Clave Slogan: "Show us your tips!"

Now that is good!  I like it…. Clave Mission Statement: "Sure, we could have chosen any number of world-renowned fly fishing venues, but getting smashed in the Quarter is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Or I could just rewrite "Tubthumper"… "We’ll be drinkin’ And some fishin’ But mainly drinkin’ We’ll fall down, but we’ll get up again, Ain’t no one gonna keep us down…" Wayne Harrison has kindy offered to serve as a "Co-ClaveMeister," This does not suprise me.

It so unnerved me I said yes…<G.  Seriously, as I had no experience and limited time, his help is appreciated.  Plus, it gives me a scapegoat…<G. TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text —Steve    2025

Response:

Richard, Upon reflection, sadly, thar ain’t no way in hades that I can attend the clave at that time of the year. It’s *the* busy season for me. Tearfully, please scrub my name from the list….. Walt – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As it appears this is developing into a shore ’nuff clave, here are some further details.  I will be gathering further info, such as specifics on hotels, fishing and general info websites, etc. this week and will keep y’all informed. The current name is: Crawlin’ in N’Awlins 2000: Toasted on the Coast but suggestions are welcome…<G. The dates will be from basically Dec. 1, 2000 until December 8, 2000. The locations will be New Orleans, LA and Biloxi/Gulfport, MS.  Wayne Harrison has kindy offred to serve as a "Co-ClaveMeister," and we are asking all interest parties who have not yet done so to email me with the following infomation: 1.  Likely dates and number (Wife, SO, kids, etc.) of attendance. 2.  Desired "target" (Fresh, Salt, Both, Whatever’s there – also, indicate any interest in "bluewater" offshore game fishing.) 3.  If you wish assistance on travel, let me know your location and nearby airports (or ones you can live with). 4.  Contact information. 5.  Where you prefer to stay if you want assistance in this area.  Those wishing to camp on our land may do so, but there will likely be no plumbed water or electric hookups – more on this later – if you wish to camp, PLEASE let me know ASAP.  Of course, there are many public campgrounds available, and if we have campers interested and need help here, let me know.  Also, if you have budgetary concerns, let me know, and I’ll keep that in mind with recommendations. I had originally thought about half the time in the NO area, and half on the MS coast, with a possible side trip to AL, but the distances are such that it is possible for one to stay in either location and participate (about 1.5 hr. from NO to Gulf Coast) in many of the activities. There are several charter airline companies that offer discount packages to the MS Coast, and several casinos offer them as well, with the Grand Biloxi – Grand Gulfport and Beau Rivage likely offering the most.  I will have more info on this as well. Another welcome addition is the participation of the Mississippi Coast Fly Fishers.  I have talked to their President, and we will work together to plan at least some group activities.  This would allow a larger circle of potential new friends, and attendees to have access to local guides and boats. These are the people I am aware of currently expressing an interest.  If you are interested and missing, or added in error, please email me. Walt Winter Wayne Harrison Jeff Miller Tom Brown John Lever (LEEver) Charlie Choc Chris Fanning Frank Reid ? Big Dale ? Those with question marks have expressed an interest via post, but I have not received an email.  Please let me know… TC, R

– Walter G. Winter Ezflyfish.com:  http://www.ezflyfish.com Blue Ridge Book Gallery: http://www.crosswinds.net/~brbg/books/brbg-2.html

Response:

The current name is: Crawlin’ in N’Awlins 2000: Toasted on the Coast

My suggestions for the name: Mardi Clave Clavi gra Clave Slogan: "Show us your rods!!" or "Show us your tips!" Clave Mission Statement: "Sure, we could have chosen any number of world-renowned fly fishing venues, but getting smashed in the Quarter is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." Wayne Harrison has kindy offered to serve as a "Co-ClaveMeister,"

This does not suprise me. –Steve    2025

Response:

As it appears this is developing into a shore ’nuff clave, here are some further details.  I will be gathering further info, such as specifics on hotels, fishing and general info websites, etc. this week and will keep y’all informed. The current name is: Crawlin’ in N’Awlins 2000: Toasted on the Coast but suggestions are welcome…<G. The dates will be from basically Dec. 1, 2000 until December 8, 2000. The locations will be New Orleans, LA and Biloxi/Gulfport, MS.  Wayne Harrison has kindy offred to serve as a "Co-ClaveMeister," and we are asking all interest parties who have not yet done so to email me with the following infomation: 1.  Likely dates and number (Wife, SO, kids, etc.) of attendance. 2.  Desired "target" (Fresh, Salt, Both, Whatever’s there – also, indicate any interest in "bluewater" offshore game fishing.) 3.  If you wish assistance on travel, let me know your location and nearby airports (or ones you can live with). 4.  Contact information. 5.  Where you prefer to stay if you want assistance in this area.  Those wishing to camp on our land may do so, but there will likely be no plumbed water or electric hookups – more on this later – if you wish to camp, PLEASE let me know ASAP.  Of course, there are many public campgrounds available, and if we have campers interested and need help here, let me know.  Also, if you have budgetary concerns, let me know, and I’ll keep that in mind with recommendations. I had originally thought about half the time in the NO area, and half on the MS coast, with a possible side trip to AL, but the distances are such that it is possible for one to stay in either location and participate (about 1.5 hr. from NO to Gulf Coast) in many of the activities. There are several charter airline companies that offer discount packages to the MS Coast, and several casinos offer them as well, with the Grand Biloxi – Grand Gulfport and Beau Rivage likely offering the most.  I will have more info on this as well. Another welcome addition is the participation of the Mississippi Coast Fly Fishers.  I have talked to their President, and we will work together to plan at least some group activities.  This would allow a larger circle of potential new friends, and attendees to have access to local guides and boats. These are the people I am aware of currently expressing an interest.  If you are interested and missing, or added in error, please email me. Walt Winter Wayne Harrison Jeff Miller Tom Brown John Lever (LEEver) Charlie Choc Chris Fanning Frank Reid ? Big Dale ? Those with question marks have expressed an interest via post, but I have not received an email.  Please let me know… TC, R

Response:

Question:

Hello to all.  I subscribed to this NG two or so weeks ago and want to ask a question as I’m not sure if it’s OK.  I’ve seen some mixed responses to similar threads so I figured I better ask first. Q –  is it OK to list a rod for sale? Seems like a great NG with plenty of knowledgeable participants.  I can certainly learn allot here as I’m fairly new to the sport (about 3 years actively flyfishing).  I spend 80% of my flyfishing time on 2-3 rivers (the size of which would make most folks outside of NJ call them streams) in northwestern NJ.  The other 20% on lakes and ponds with my 4 yr. old son and 3yr old daughter and occasionally a trip up to the Beaverkill or Willowomac with a friend who introduced my to this great sport. Well, that’s it, don’t want to overdo the intro (most likely already did though). Regards to all. Natty

Response:

got dreadlocks?              john

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hello to all.  I subscribed to this NG two or so weeks ago and want to ask a question as I’m not sure if it’s OK.  I’ve seen some mixed responses to similar threads so I figured I better ask first. Q –  is it OK to list a rod for sale? Seems like a great NG with plenty of knowledgeable participants.  I can certainly learn allot here as I’m fairly new to the sport (about 3 years actively flyfishing).  I spend 80% of my flyfishing time on 2-3 rivers (the size of which would make most folks outside of NJ call them streams) in northwestern NJ.  The other 20% on lakes and ponds with my 4 yr. old son and 3yr old daughter and occasionally a trip up to the Beaverkill or Willowomac with a friend who introduced my to this great sport. Well, that’s it, don’t want to overdo the intro (most likely already did though). Regards to all. Natty

Response:

First of all, your name rox. Q –  is it OK to list a rod for sale?

If you start the title with "FS" or "For Sale" and only put it up once you should be fine.  If it is relatively rare or valuable, yet priced ridiculously low out of ignorance, just email me first with the info and I’ll tell you if you should post it here…. I can certainly learn allot here as I’m fairly new to the sport (about 3 years actively flyfishing).  I spend 80% of my flyfishing time on 2-3 rivers (the size of which would make most folks outside of NJ call them streams) in northwestern NJ.  The other 20% on lakes and ponds with my 4 yr. old son and 3yr old daughter and occasionally a trip up to the Beaverkill or Willowomac with a friend who introduced my to this great sport.

Ummm, I was told there would be no math…. Regards, Jeff

Response:

Hello to all.  I subscribed to this NG two or so weeks ago and want to ask a question as I’m not sure if it’s OK.  I’ve seen some mixed responses to similar threads so I figured I better ask first. Q –  is it OK to list a rod for sale?

        although no one would dare speak for the whole of this bunch of anarchists and nut cases, i will hazard the opinion that a few non-commercial offers of sale would not be considered bad form, even by fortenberry. wayno

Response:

Thx for the compliment, tip and offer….nothing rare or extraordinary though. Will follow your advice. Thx again  :-) Natty

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – First of all, your name rox. Q –  is it OK to list a rod for sale? If you start the title with "FS" or "For Sale" and only put it up once you should be fine.  If it is relatively rare or valuable, yet priced ridiculously low out of ignorance, just email me first with the info and I’ll tell you if you should post it here…. I can certainly learn allot here as I’m fairly new to the sport (about 3 years actively flyfishing).  I spend 80% of my flyfishing time on 2-3 rivers (the size of which would make most folks outside of NJ call them streams) in northwestern NJ.  The other 20% on lakes and ponds with my 4 yr. old son and 3yr old daughter and occasionally a trip up to the Beaverkill or Willowomac with a friend who introduced my to this great sport. Ummm, I was told there would be no math…. Regards, Jeff

Response:

LOL…don’t I wish!  More like razor stubble. Natty

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – got dreadlocks?              john

Response:

<snip….mainly because somebody shoulda done it to Cooper a long, long time ago Near as I can figure it Hawkeye you must be somewhere on the wrong side of about 220 by now.  Gettin a bit long in the tooth for fly fishing…or just about anything else for that matter.  How’s about I just send you my address and I’ll take all that stuff off your hands? Meanwhile, welcome to ROFF and pay no mind to the bitey things in here……ain’t none of it real. Wolfgang who WOULD have written a treatise on "Fennimore Cooper’s Literary Offenses" if that hack Clemens hadn’t beat me to it!

Response:

Welcome to ROFF.  One off posts advertising private gear for sale are generally accepted without demur. Although you may be offered KY jelly from some participants, usually with explicit instructions !  Don

Question:

The space station is a gigantic waste of funds that would be better used for real space research, instead of a feel-good NASA publicity stunt.

RW has nailed this one. When you see the space station, think "Apple computer commercials." All warm fuzzies, no substance. –Steve (heh heh heh)

Response:

What would be an appropriate tip?

after John Lindsey wroe: He paid $20 mil for one week.

Well, 10 to 20%, of course!! Didn’t we determine that here before for guide’s tip??!! — Tight Lines! Brian D. Nelson Diamond N Outfitters, Missoula, Montana http://www.montana.com/dno 406-626-4022

Response:

Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g John

Yes, and all that for not even one fish. TL MC

Response:

Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g Yea, but can he fly fish?? If he can afford $20M a week, who cares? (How long do you need to stay in space to become a ‘local’?) <g — Charlie…

And where are the whorehouses? TL MC

Response:

What’s worse is that we are subsidizing his trip.  We, as Americans, are footing most of Russia’s space program presently!  We would be building the space station whether or  not Russia was involved.  Giving extra credit almost  never hurts in the long run.  I think that it’s great that  the space station involves as many countries as it  does.

The space station is a gigantic waste of funds that would be better used for real space research, instead of a feel-good NASA publicity stunt. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

 … and on top of that, he spent 6 mos. training,  so he would know what he is doing.

And then he still gets sick… so much space?! <g (wish I could go, flyfishing or no flyfishing) Marius Jonker Transkei Piscatorial Society http://home.intekom.com/TPS

Response:

What’s worse is that we are subsidizing his trip.  We, as Americans, are footing most of Russia’s space program presently! Op

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sorry guys, but to my mind this is a criminal waste of money. It is helping a crippled regime waste further money on what, for them, is a lost cause. I know it is up to him, it is his, but there are so many good causes that would benefit from an input like that. Please tell me I’m wrong, the guy has given millions already to good causes. Chris

Response:

Sorry guys, but to my mind this is a criminal waste of money. It is helping a crippled regime waste further money on what, for them, is a lost cause. I know it is up to him, it is his, but there are so many good causes that would benefit from an input like that. Please tell me I’m wrong, the guy has given millions already to good causes. Chris

lots of things are a "so-called" waste of money.  heck, i could sell all my rods, boats, etc… and feed a hell of a lot of poor people.  the guy has the money and in my mind can spend it however he wants… and if he wants to go to space instead of feeding starving kids… that’s his right, and more power to him. before we get too self-righteous about "wastes of money"… we better think about the reason we all gather on this little corner of cyberspace… because i’m sure plenty of people would say the money we spend fishing is a waste and could be better spent…. and i think those people are as dumb as fence-posts <G chris

Response:

Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g

I’d bet that just like earthbound guides, the overhead and expenses will eat that $20 mil in short order.   The guide is supplying all the equipment, Tito isn’t going to pay for anything he breaks or loses, and I bet he ain’t gonna tip much either. Joe F.

Response:

Sorry guys, but to my mind this is a criminal waste of money. It is helping a crippled regime waste further money on what, for them, is a lost cause.  I know it is up to him, it is his, but there are so many good causes that would benefit from an input like that. Please tell me I’m wrong, the guy has given millions already to good causes. Chris

Response:

<< Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g John What would be an appropriate tip?

Response:

Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g John

Response:

Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g

Yea, but can he fly fish?? — Brian D. Nelson Diamond N Outfitters Missoula, Montana http://www.montana.com/dno 406-626-4022

Response:

Russians just took Tito to Space Station. He paid $20 mil for one week. Guides eat your heart out! <g Yea, but can he fly fish??

If he can afford $20M a week, who cares? (How long do you need to stay in space to become a ‘local’?) <g — Charlie…

Response:

Here’s another one for yez. Gettin’ itchy and fishing season’s only a couple of weeks gone. Anyways, building much awaited 8 weight and got to wondering what everyone else uses for guides. On my 10 weight I built fighting many stripers they did have a tendency to bend from their original shape, so I’ve decided on snakes. My 11 weight has the following setup; 20,16,12,4,4,4,4,3,3,3. I’ve never actually used <size 3. I think the 20 stripper is overkill for an 8 weight, so I’m thinking along the a light rod. And does it make sense to taper to a 2 and use a large loop tip, which looks more like a 3 or so ? What do you guys use ? Thanks,                                                 jc

Response:

John, Having built over 400 flyrods, and having played with guide sizes, spacing and types for years now, I won’t tell you which type of guide to use, as I believe that is a personal choice, but I think you have the right idea in starting with a #16 stripper and going no smaller than a 3. I would also recommend the large loop tip top. Just my two cents! Tom Dougherty – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Here’s another one for yez. Gettin’ itchy and fishing season’s only a couple of weeks gone. Anyways, building much awaited 8 weight and got to wondering what everyone else uses for guides. On my 10 weight I built after fighting many stripers they did have a tendency to bend from their original shape, so I’ve decided on snakes. My 11 weight has the following setup; 20,16,12,4,4,4,4,3,3,3. I’ve never actually used <size 3. I think the 20 stripper is overkill for an 8 weight, so I’m thinking along the a light rod. And does it make sense to taper to a 2 and use a large loop tip, which looks more like a 3 or so ? What do you guys use ? Thanks,                                            jc

Response:

Here’s another one for yez. Gettin’ itchy and fishing season’s only a couple of weeks gone. Anyways, building much awaited 8 weight and got to wondering what everyone else uses for guides. On my 10 weight I built fighting many stripers they did have a tendency to bend from their original shape, so I’ve decided on snakes. My 11 weight has the following setup; 20,16,12,4,4,4,4,3,3,3. I’ve never actually used <size 3. I think the 20 stripper is overkill for an 8 weight, so I’m thinking along the a light rod. And does it make sense to taper to a 2 and use a large loop tip, which looks more like a 3 or so ? What do you guys use ? Thanks,

Hi John About ten years ago I switched to Sic single foots on my fly rods because I would wear grooves in the single foot guides in a very short time.  I could straighten out the single foots much quicker than I could replace the snake guides.  Just a thought.                                       — Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (97 catalog) http://www.flyshop.com/Expo/Specialty/BTsPdcts/index.html

Response:

Here’s another one for yez. Gettin’ itchy and fishing season’s only a couple of weeks gone. Anyways, building much awaited 8 weight and got to wondering what everyone else uses for guides. On my 10 weight I built

<snip About ten years ago I switched to Sic single foots on my fly rods because I would wear grooves in the single foot guides in a very short time.  I could straighten out the single foots much quicker than I could replace the snake guides.  Just a thought.                                      

What is Sic?  And how does straightening the guide remove the wear spot. Carl carl

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Here’s another one for yez. Gettin’ itchy and fishing season’s only a couple of weeks gone. Anyways, building much awaited 8 weight and got to wondering what everyone else uses for guides. On my 10 weight I built <snip About ten years ago I switched to Sic single foots on my fly rods because I would wear grooves in the single foot guides in a very short time.  I could straighten out the single foots much quicker than I could replace the snake guides.  Just a thought.                                       What is Sic?  And how does straightening the guide remove the wear spot. Carl carl

SICs are single foot guides with a ring of (I think) silicone carbide in them. Much tougher than the predecessor, Hardloy. The ultimate is the new Fuji Cermet, which is a titanium frame (not TN) with a gold Titanium nitride ring. Groove proof, corrosion proof, much lighter and only about $15 each ($35 for a stripper!). For the record I just unpacked some stuff (we’re in the process of moving) and found a box holding 7 SICs #8. Can’t just toss them at $5 each, so I guess this is what I put on the new 8 weight after all.                                                         jc

Response:

Question:

Anyone out there have experience fishing for muskie on this Vilas County lake?  Traveling there next week.  Any info would be helpful. Thanks.

Response:

(Sorry guys, not using my fly rod on this trip, though maybe I should bring it anyway?  Meant to post inquiry to general fishing ne ws group.)  TH – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there have experience fishing for muskie on this Vilas County lake?  Traveling there next week.  Any info would be helpful. Thanks.

Response:

Not fish with a fly rod ?!? Must not be a family relation. Wayne Hart To fish is human…to release devine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (Sorry guys, not using my fly rod on this trip, though maybe I should bring it anyway?  Meant to post inquiry to general fishing ne ws group.)  TH Anyone out there have experience fishing for muskie on this Vilas County lake?  Traveling there next week.  Any info would be helpful. Thanks.

Response:

Question:

I am not sure about loading the boat solo.  Its not so much the weight but

I’ve just switched canoes from an Old Town to a handmade wooden one. The wooden one weighs at least 20 pounds less, but is too hard to handle completely well alone in getting it off the truck and back on the sawhorses, so I’ve been paddling for overnights in the tiny Otter, with stuff strapped on deck.  Otter fits in my truck bed on a diagonal.  The new canoe is 18 feet and the fore/aft wobble and so forth and need to try to keep the wood safe is just more work than the weight loss is worth.  I’ll probably be selling it next year. The Old Towns are wonderful.  You don’t have to worry about dents.  I used to take that thing off my car (lousy arm strength) by looking over to my right to be sure there was nothing pointy and tip/flipping it off.  As people would stare, I’d smile and say, "It’s a Old Town." and go get the rest of my gear out of my trunk.  I even used to be able to get it on top of my truck by doing the crawl under, lift bow, set bow on top of truck and shove until it was in the right position. I did that on a well used Old Town for 10 years and it was in about the same shape when I handed it on as it was when I bought it.  Faded more, though, and one long nasty scratch that has to be fixed by the new owner. So go for the Old Town, even a bit heavy, if you don’t mind some unconventional on and off vehicle moves.  I’m 5′4" and out of shape and if I could do it, darn near anyone can.  Oh, yeah, middlel-aged, too.  However, if I could find a 40 pound kevlar at a price I could afford, I’d be on it like a shot. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -the size could get tough.  I carry it myself but its helpful having my son guide the back as I load it on and off.  But that may just be me…your coleman seemed to be heavier. I’m now back in the market and looking for an all-purpose boat to cover the following usage: 65% fishing (with electric or tiny outboard) 30% flatwater paddling (maybe day trips or overnights) 5% "whitewater" (certainly ning more than a class 2+) ty. er) It seems to me that Old Town makes more general purpose boats than the other manufacturers, let me know if I am wrong. Woodbury, MN

—– I only answer my email every few months, on average.   Patience helps.   http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

If I bought a Discovery I’d buy the 169.  Its patterned on their "tripper" which is a great boat.  A friend has the 169 and it seems decent. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Old Town Discovery 160K Old Town Discovery 133K Old Town Discovery 147 (current front runner)

Response:

Try before you buy…saying that… I had the same requirements you had except I also have a requirement of bringing my son along with me.  I went with the Mad River Revelation.  It does everything you want.  Its about 78 pounds, 17ft, and very stable also its expensive.  I fly fish out of it and its very comfortable to have my son in the front and me in the back.  It is amazingly comfortable to paddle over the lakes we fish.  It easily fits four for day trip though I have not tried camping out of it yet.  The electric motor is nice but because we enjoyed paddling it so much we use it only for trolling. I have not tried white water but have heard of others having no problems. I am not sure about loading the boat solo.  Its not so much the weight but the size could get tough.  I carry it myself but its helpful having my son guide the back as I load it on and off.  But that may just be me…your coleman seemed to be heavier. Good luck. John – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Back in the early 80’s I canoed quite a bit.  Yes, I was a teenager, broke and naive, and bought a 15′ Coleman.  (Yada, yada, yada).  I enjoyed that, fished the heck out of it, camped out of it some and ran a few rapids I probably shouldn’t have. I’m now back in the market and looking for an all-purpose boat to cover the following usage: 65% fishing (with electric or tiny outboard) 30% flatwater paddling (maybe day trips or overnights) 5% "whitewater" (certainly ning more than a class 2+) Now I certainly don’t expect to find something that shines at everything. I had originally decided to do something square-sterned but decided that a double-ended boat would be more versatile.  I want to favor fishing since that will be my heaviest usage.  Tracking well under power would be important so I’m assuming a flat or slightly rockeredboat would be appropriate.  I might also row when fishing solo.  I will fish out of it a lot solo so ease of car topping is also important ( I used to do my Coleman alone and I think the 15′ I had was about 85 lbs).  But I want the ability to hold two for fishing comfortably, or hold three on a day or overnight paddle.  I favor plastic boats for cost and durability. I’m hoping the experts here can help. What have I come up with?  My best guesses so far are: Old Town Discovery 160K Old Town Discovery 133K Old Town Discovery 147 (current front runner) It seems to me that Old Town makes more general purpose boats than the other manufacturers, let me know if I am wrong. Let me know what you think. Thanks a lot, Keith Hatfull Woodbury, MN

Response:

Back in the early 80’s I canoed quite a bit.  Yes, I was a teenager, broke and naive, and bought a 15′ Coleman.  (Yada, yada, yada).  I enjoyed that, fished the heck out of it, camped out of it some and ran a few rapids I probably shouldn’t have. I’m now back in the market and looking for an all-purpose boat to cover the following usage: 65% fishing (with electric or tiny outboard) 30% flatwater paddling (maybe day trips or overnights) 5% "whitewater" (certainly ning more than a class 2+) Now I certainly don’t expect to find something that shines at everything.  I had originally decided to do something square-sterned but decided that a double-ended boat would be more versatile.  I want to favor fishing since that will be my heaviest usage.  Tracking well under power would be important so I’m assuming a flat or slightly rockeredboat would be appropriate.  I might also row when fishing solo.  I will fish out of it a lot solo so ease of car topping is also important ( I used to do my Coleman alone and I think the 15′ I had was about 85 lbs).  But I want the ability to hold two for fishing comfortably, or hold three on a day or overnight paddle.  I favor plastic boats for cost and durability. I’m hoping the experts here can help. What have I come up with?  My best guesses so far are: Old Town Discovery 160K Old Town Discovery 133K Old Town Discovery 147 (current front runner) It seems to me that Old Town makes more general purpose boats than the other manufacturers, let me know if I am wrong. Let me know what you think. Thanks a lot, Keith Hatfull Woodbury, MN

Response:

Old Town is OK but consider a Mad River Explorer in Royalex.  They cost a bit more, but have more stability, and load carrying capacity.  They can handle any reasonable whitewater. (The first  open canoe down the Grand Canyon was Jim Shelander’s explorer. )

Response:

If you can take the time paddle every boat that is recommended to you. I am totally biased but I don’t think you will find a better boat for your described purpose than a Dagger Sewannee. 15 feet, reasonably light, and paddles better than you will believe until you try it. Go with the three seat version and venture  into only very mild whitewater in any of this type of  boat. There should be a description at www.Dagger.com Steve Scarborough

Response:

Question:

I am looking for anyone that remembers an old lure called the Blue River Spinner . Its origin is believed to be in Southern Indiana and the maker from Shelbyville. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Response:

Being from southern Indiana and having spent forty years in the tackle industry to boot, I am sorry to say that I only recall the name but not any of the specifics about the lure itself. I will certainly research it for you and if I come up with anything, I will pass it along. Best Regards, I am looking for anyone that remembers an old lure called the Blue River Spinner . Its origin is believed to be in Southern Indiana and the maker from Shelbyville. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

         Trent Roberson            Rx F Fish  For Your Good Health, Fly Fish URL=http://www.xnet.com/~rxffish

Response:

Question:

I am looking for a new or secondhand Hardy #4 fly reel to match a Loomis #4 IMX rod. Marquis #4 or #5 , Golden Prince 5/6 or JLH Ultralite #4 or #5. Any info will be of great help. Thanks

Response:

I am looking for a new or secondhand Hardy #4 fly reel to match a Loomis #4 IMX rod. Marquis #4 or #5 , Golden Prince 5/6 or JLH Ultralite #4 or #5. Any info will be of great help. Thanks

Contact Timeless Tackle in Edinburgh Scotland at 44-131-667-1407 or FAX 44-131-662-4215.  They deal in used and antique fishing gear and their list always seems to have a large selection of Hardy equipment. Ken Barry

Response:

Question:

   To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry

Response:

  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

Hi Harry, I offer my ideas regarding the 5 things that make a high quality fly from my perspective, a commercial fly tier: 1. Durability – quality materials, strong hook, etc. 2. Proper proportions, tail length, hackle, etc. 3. Attractive to the fly fisher 4. Attractive to the fish 5. Will sell It will be interesting to see what other fly tiers/fisher think. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

Response:

   To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry

Harry,         Here’s my list of the five characteristics of a good quality fly: Durability – It has to last.  This isn’t art for art’s sake. Ease of tying – The point is to go fishing sometime this century.  I         lose enough flies that I need to tie more than one per day. Bugginess – Oh, that elusive quality.  If it doesn’t "look buggy" it         probably will never get tied on my tippet.  I’ve carried flies         for years that just don’t get a rise out of me. Availability of Ingredients – Part of this is my frugality.  But, part         is my ecological awareness.  If I’m going to have to spend         my tying and fishing time tracking down materials, I’m outta         here. Catches Fish – Course, before I know this, I’ve tracked down the         materials, easily tied the fly, am confident in its durability,         and have tied it on my tippet.  But, hey, this is what we’re         doing this for, isn’t it? Charley

Response:

  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

Reply Never counted my reasons. 1. Do I enjoy tying the fly? 2. Does it REALLY require all of those materials that I don’t have? Can I sub. and    still have a good looking fly that will work. 3. Do I have confidence in the fly. 4. Do I need another fly like this one. How many of this type do I already carry that    I don’t use now. 5. And back to # 1. If I like to tie the fly thats what matters. I’m here for just      the fun.  CU, Steve Birkes Buckner, Mo.

Response:

  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.

I can boil it down to just three things: 1.  It has to catch fish. 2.  It has to catch fish. 3.  It has to catch fish. Larry H.

Response:

I fish mainly in still waters and I fine one other quality to be of importance when tying.I like to call this Pulsability; giving the illusion of a bubbling, pulsating, swimming creature. John Hafner

Response:

Harry, as a former pro tyer I would have to say it’s more a case of WHO makes a good fly. Style and expertise does not come to everyone, even if you have the correct materials for any given pattern.   To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

– dave tait

Response:

I fish mainly in still waters and I fine one other quality to be of importance when tying.I like to call this Pulsability; giving the illusion of a bubbling, pulsating, swimming creature. John Hafner

A good fly should take less time to tie than it does to lose it.    -Ralph —

Response:

  To All;  I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.   Harry

1. proportion 2. balance 3. durability 4. castability 5. silouette these are what i shoot for when tying flies for stripers, etc. shade/color would probably come in 6th for me.                                                 jc

Response:

        Does it catch fish?         That, essentially, is the bottom line.

Response:

        Does it catch fish?         That, essentially, is the bottom line.

Yes, but,…… There are lots of flies out there that catch marlin, peacock bass, sharks, etc.  They catch fish, but are not a good fly for me.  I don’t get to sea too often.  And, when I do, I’m usually looking for salmon! So, now we have to add the delimiter, "Does it catch the fish I’m after?". This is such a complex question! :^) Charley

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         Does it catch fish?         That, essentially, is the bottom line. Yes, but,…… There are lots of flies out there that catch marlin, peacock bass, sharks, etc.  They catch fish, but are not a good fly for me.  I don’t get to sea too often.  And, when I do, I’m usually looking for salmon! So, now we have to add the delimiter, "Does it catch the fish I’m after?". This is such a complex question! :^) Charley

Hi Charley, Good point Charley! My flies always catch the fish I’m after IF i’m telling the story.?! Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

Response:

Al Beatty said: Hi Charley, Good point Charley! My flies always catch the fish I’m after IF i’m telling the story.?!

Cheers for Al’s honesty.  I will add that if they don’t, I damn quick change the story. Dick Hubbard

Response:

   To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry

Harry: 1. Ease of tying: most of us fit fly tying between the responsibilities work, running a home, and the ten o’clock news. Functional patterns are not necessarily a compromise. You can crank out a dozen brown-hackle-peacocks or BWO compara duns in the time it takes to tie half-as-many extended body paradrakes. This is not to say you don’t need extended body paradrakes–just save the more involved patterns for those rare occasions when you have a few hours to spend on the vice. 2. Proportions and technique: Spend time understanding how to size hackle and dimension tails; without such understanding, you can easily turn a humpy into a spider. Study A. K. Best’s "Production Fly Tying." He explains technique in this book, not recipes for ties (this book is made most valuable as a reference source: when you’re lashing down a moose mane tail, you can consult the book for a brief technique refresher before you begin, and your flies look a little better for your trouble). 3. Materials: Garbage in, garbage out. Webby dry fly hackle, too soft biots, it doesn’t matter. There’s nothing you can do to disguise poor materials. 4. Hooks: I used to recycle hooks but quit when I discovered that hooks grow weaker in boxes–every time your fly box gets submerged, the hooks will weaken from rust, particularly where the bend enters foam. I prefer Tiemco (particularly the 200R) and Daichi hooks. 5. Bottom Line: tie patterns that have proved their worth on the waters you fish. While just about any pattern will work at one time or another, there are a lot of useless diversions out there. Get to know old timers and knowledgable guides. They’ll turn you on to patterns you won’t find in books. Mitch Mulhall

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    To All;   I have been asked by some in my tying classes , what 5 things makes up a High Quality Fly. The question is valid and would like to hear what the ROFF group may say.    Harry Harry: 1. Ease of tying: most of us fit fly tying between the responsibilities work, running a home, and the ten o’clock news. Functional patterns are not necessarily a compromise. You can crank out a dozen brown-hackle-peacocks or BWO compara duns in the time it takes to tie half-as-many extended body paradrakes. This is not to say you don’t need extended body paradrakes–just save the more involved patterns for those rare occasions when you have a few hours to spend on the vice. 2. Proportions and technique: Spend time understanding how to size hackle and dimension tails; without such understanding, you can easily turn a humpy into a spider. Study A. K. Best’s "Production Fly Tying." He explains technique in this book, not recipes for ties (this book is made most valuable as a reference source: when you’re lashing down a moose mane tail, you can consult the book for a brief technique refresher before you begin, and your flies look a little better for your trouble). 3. Materials: Garbage in, garbage out. Webby dry fly hackle, too soft biots, it doesn’t matter. There’s nothing you can do to disguise poor materials. 4. Hooks: I used to recycle hooks but quit when I discovered that hooks grow weaker in boxes–every time your fly box gets submerged, the hooks will weaken from rust, particularly where the bend enters foam. I prefer Tiemco (particularly the 200R) and Daichi hooks. 5. Bottom Line: tie patterns that have proved their worth on the waters you fish. While just about any pattern will work at one time or another, there are a lot of useless diversions out there. Get to know old timers and knowledgable guides. They’ll turn you on to patterns you won’t find in books. Mitch Mulhall

  To Mitch and all who took the time to reply, thank you !!  I will take these notes to the start of yet another class Thursday night.   Again Thanks    Harry

Response:

Question:

Ernie’s Casting Pond (Soquel, CA) is proud to announce our new Web Site, located at <URL:http://www.ernies.com/~ernies/. We are located in Soquel, CA, about 35 miles south of San Jose, near Santa Cruz, CA. We are a full service fly shop, and welcome ideas and info from fellow ‘netters about local fly fishing news, etc. Stop on by and give us your comments on our Web site. Your comments are most welcome, and we look forward to hearing from you. -Ernie’s Casting Pond

Response:

Hi, Ern!  Welcome to the Web.  ( I thought you were getting too old to get on the cutting edge of technology).  But you always surprise me.  See you Jim Thatcher

Response: