Question:

You’re right  - I gave the thing a smack and it’s only -32 C! I’m strippin’ down! I’m in the ‘Peg – Ottawa is tropical in comparison Before you buy.

Response:

Still, -32 C is 32 degrees _below_ the freezing point of water. The only thing hatching at temperatures like that are icecubes? Herman, wondering if America is really _that_ different from Europe You’re right  - I gave the thing a smack and it’s only -32 C! I’m strippin’ down! I’m in the ‘Peg – Ottawa is tropical in comparison Before you buy.

–         Cheers, Herman         Herman Nijland         Daytime webmaster         Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Yes, Herman!  Things are that different here in America.  We had a lovely *icecube* hatch last year on Upper Creek.  While the damn things are somewhat difficult to tie on a hook. The trout just love the different flavors, when you mix in a little KOOL-AID. — Opie  **Panhandling for a better tomorrow!**

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Still, -32 C is 32 degrees _below_ the freezing point of water. The only thing hatching at temperatures like that are icecubes? Herman, wondering if America is really _that_ different from Europe You’re right  - I gave the thing a smack and it’s only -32 C! I’m strippin’ down! I’m in the ‘Peg – Ottawa is tropical in comparison Before you buy. — Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now. Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F. You sure your thermometer is working correctly?

Jeez, your supposed to be an engineer or computer geek or something – -40C is about -40F, it’s the point where the two systems meet. Having been in Winterpeg in the middle of January more than once and having lived in Ottawa, I’ll take the ‘Peg. Peter

Response:

Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now.

-41 C?? Well in Fahrenheit that must be nearly… Lesse F = 9/5C + 32… That means -41C is minus fort–no wait, that can’t be right!! <g –Steve (pardon the math joke)

Response:

Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F.  You sure your thermometer is working correctly?

*Something’s* not working correctly, that’s for sure. HINT: Did you use a UNIX-based calculator to come up with that answer, Dave? –Steve

Response:

Jeez, your supposed to be an engineer or computer geek or something – -40C is about -40F, it’s the point where the two systems meet.

There are other aspects to 2nd childhoods than fast cars… <g — Charlie…

Response:

Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now. Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F. You sure your thermometer is working correctly? Jeez, your supposed to be an engineer or computer geek or something –

A DEMOCRATIC engineer or computer geek or something – I’ll bet he stuffs his turkey through the neck (do with that what you will) <G. TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –40C is about -40F, it’s the point where the two systems meet.

Response:

–

Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now. Sigh

Excuse my ignorance: what’s the Tricos? Chris Always willing to learn.

Response:

Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F.  You sure your thermometer is working correctly? *Something’s* not working correctly, that’s for sure. HINT: Did you use a UNIX-based calculator to come up with that answer, Dave? –Steve

Yikes – did I post that? To the Windows Calculator with 9/5C+32  and – ooops – there’s where I lost it, I never added the 32…Oh well… Goes to show that posting after drinking your way through "The Big Book Of Wine At That Really Expensive Restaurant" could be hazardous to your dignity. /daytripper (recovering slowly…)

Response:

Does it matter at that point?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now. Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F.  You sure your thermometer is working correctly?

Response:

Tricos are a little tiny mayfly. About a number 26. I tie them on a #24 hook but only dress the front half of the shank. Paul

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – — Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now. Sigh Excuse my ignorance: what’s the Tricos? Chris Always willing to learn.

Response:

Dignity?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F.  You sure your thermometer is working correctly? *Something’s* not working correctly, that’s for sure. HINT: Did you use a UNIX-based calculator to come up with that answer, Dave? –Steve Yikes – did I post that? To the Windows Calculator with 9/5C+32  and – ooops – there’s where I lost it, I never added the 32…Oh well… Goes to show that posting after drinking your way through "The Big Book Of Wine At That Really Expensive Restaurant" could be hazardous to your dignity. /daytripper (recovering slowly…)

Response:

Tricos are a little tiny mayfly. About a number 26. I tie them on a #24 hook but only dress the front half of the shank. Paul

    i thought they were a type of diptera.  or is that "diphteria"? wayno, a little weak on the entomology.

Response:

Tricos are a little tiny mayfly. About a number 26. I tie them on a #24 hook but only dress the front half of the shank. Paul    i thought they were a type of diptera.  or is that "diphteria"? wayno, a little weak on the entomology.

    wait, no; i meant "diptheria". wayno, just plain weak – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

I thought diphtheria is a disease. Diptera is the true fly family of which midges are a member. Tricorythodes is a genus of mayfly (Ephemeroptera).

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Tricos are a little tiny mayfly. About a number 26. I tie them on a #24 hook but only dress the front half of the shank. Paul    i thought they were a type of diptera.  or is that "diphteria"? wayno, a little weak on the entomology.     wait, no; i meant "diptheria". wayno, just plain weak

Response:

"Brian D. Nelson" wrote I thought diphtheria is a disease. Diptera is the true fly family of which midges are a member. Tricorythodes is a genus of mayfly (Ephemeroptera).

Diphtheria is a disease, just like flyfishing. Ernie

Response:

Diphtheria is a disease, just like flyfishing. Ernie

Then I hope I don’t catch it (the diphtheria, that is) because, like flyfishing, there is no cure (except to go fishing, of course!). — Brian D. Nelson Diamond N Outfitters Missoula, Montana http://www.montana.com/dno/dno.htm 406-626-4022

Response:

Diptera = two wings. Usually the critters that bite, or if not look too much like those not to swat them. Grammatical codswallop, but I guess you get the point. Herman Shit, I think I inhaled.. Tricos are a little tiny mayfly. About a number 26. I tie them on a #24 hook but only dress the front half of the shank. Paul     i thought they were a type of diptera.  or is that "diphteria"? wayno, a little weak on the entomology.

–         Cheers, Herman         Herman Nijland         Daytime webmaster         Lifetime flyfisher

Response:

Herman,   The trico is closely related to a British insect called the Treacle (look up the taxonomy, but as you can tell by the name, they are closely related).  Though both are often mentioned in Winter settings, but at -40 Centigrade or Fahrenheit, they bear a striking similarity, i.e. they don’t move a whole bunch.              Frank – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yes, Herman!  Things are that different here in America.  We had a lovely *icecube* hatch last year on Upper Creek.  While the damn things are somewhat difficult to tie on a hook. The trout just love the different flavors, when you mix in a little KOOL-AID. — Opie  **Panhandling for a better tomorrow!** Still, -32 C is 32 degrees _below_ the freezing point of water. The only thing hatching at temperatures like that are icecubes? Herman, wondering if America is really _that_ different from Europe You’re right  - I gave the thing a smack and it’s only -32 C! I’m strippin’ down! I’m in the ‘Peg – Ottawa is tropical in comparison Before you buy. — Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

Before you buy.

Response:

That’s my kind of insect.. I don’t move much at -40 C either. Herman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Herman,   The trico is closely related to a British insect called the Treacle (look up the taxonomy, but as you can tell by the name, they are closely related).  Though both are often mentioned in Winter settings, but at -40 Centigrade or Fahrenheit, they bear a striking similarity, i.e. they don’t move a whole bunch.              Frank

Response:

Correct me if I’m wrong, but here in Montana, Tricos hatch in August, not wintertime. Fill me in on the Treacle. I’ve never heard of it and cannot tell by the name that they are closely related (other than the "Tr").

Herman,   The trico is closely related to a British insect called the Treacle (look up the taxonomy, but as you can tell by the name, they are closely related).  Though both are often mentioned in Winter settings, but at -40 Centigrade or Fahrenheit, they bear a striking similarity, i.e. they don’t move a whole bunch.              Frank

– Brian D. Nelson Diamond N Outfitters Missoula, Montana http://www.montana.com/dno/dno.htm 406-626-4022

Response:

That’s my kind of insect.. I don’t move much at -40 C either.

I experienced -40 one time…actually it was -44 F.  At that temperature you had BETTER keep moving!  Trust me on this one.       Wolfgang digging out from under 13" of new snow this morning

Response:

Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now. Sigh Before you buy.

Response:

Just checked the thermometer and its -41 C. The Tricos should be coming off any day now.

Ottawa can get pretty cold indeed, but -41C is like -70F.  You sure your thermometer is working correctly?

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (delicately snipped)        she had fallen in love, and she was grateful that it was in a beautiful place.        a. wayne harrison  examplage has paid off for you Wayno! Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine!    hart, you’ve been staying up late, reading asadi again.

wayno

Response:

romantic stuff snipped<

Damn, counselor; that was mighty fine.   Thanks. Joe F. p.s. "…before the winter took all this into custody"  *had* to be written by a lawyer.  

Response:

(Lovely story snipped) My God, counselor, there is hope for you yet.  No wonder I haven’t given up on you.  Well done. Dave

Response:

<snip

Response:

[deleted] hovering like the handheld trout.

I gotcher handheld trout… — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "A Cash Flow Runs Through It…" "Guilt replaced the creel…"

Response:

Great story Wayno,  Thanks George Adams

Response:

I gotcher handheld trout…

ROFLMAO! That’s not trout!  That’s tuna! Warren

Response:

And then she realized that this wasn’t a once in a lifetime dream. No, she found out that you were going to spend three or four days a week and many weekends fishing and night after night after night reading fly fishing newsgroups and it was all over, right? Steve Zimmerman

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – wonderful story snipped

Response:

Nice piece of work Wayno.  I see someone has been telling you stories about me again.  You didn’t have to try and cover it up with that lawyer nonsense hehehehe Job well done.  One of the few treasures I have read in a long while. Warren

Response:

[a snippet of romance]    a. wayne harrison

Counsellor, you’ve outdone yourself. Peter

Response:

(delicately snipped)    she had fallen in love, and she was grateful that it was in a beautiful place.    a. wayne harrison

I see at last, all my careful instruction, tutoring, and examplage has paid off for you Wayno!  If you can just work in the glass of wine and sparkling fire in her eyes you will be close to graduation! — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

Response:

wayno, well, wow….. first drink is on me sat. waldo – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         she had listened with eyes that grew larger with each spoken image, as he tried to paint a picture of harper creek, his words matching the of the flow of the cellophane water, stretched in places to transparency, colored deep green and brown in the deeper reaches. they had known each other for exactly one week.  they sat across an oaken table in the bar where they had met:  the young lawyer, smitten with her like a stone from david’s sling, not yet dead, but brought far closer to life with the collision.; she, not yet twenty, a freshwoman, a first year student in a sleepy southern town.  lawyers could be heroes, then, and in a place like that, and she watched him watch her with a joy that she hoped was the stuff of dreams.         fishing for trout had become a subject of value for both of them.  she had asked him, earnestly, what are the things you love to do; he had said, fish for trout.  she asked why, and he said:  because they live in beautiful places.  it moved her nearly to tears, to know a man that could care more about where a thing lived than how to conquer it, or kill it.  for his part, it gave him something to give her.  something no one else had ever given her.  the end of her mountain drought.         so they drove together in search of the places and pictures he had described, with hearts quickening on first sight of the front range of the blue ridge, looking just like low, dark clouds, at first; then, rising with the loss of distance, gaining substance and losing mystery, they proclaimed the reality of the pictures.         it took a full hour of climbing in the car before they were inside those blue hills, no longer spectators.  and after that, the walking, nearly falling, downhill, towards the hushed rustle of flowing water, sounding like leaves in a far away wind. he knew the trip down was a tease, that each light step forward, gravity-aided, was a warning of the pain that waited at day’s end.  she only knew that she couldn’t wait to spend the best, or the rest, of this delicious day beside this magician, who painted pictures with words, and then made them real.         they reached the stream abruptly, the water strangely quiet where they made contact; a brief, sandy end to the trail signaled the edge of the water, reflecting every hint of light that sliced between the tree covered mountain shoulders.  she said, quickly, it’s just as you told me; he was validated by the water he loved.  he smiled as he prepared his gear, embarrassed at the clumsiness of early spring. it’s not like riding a bicycle, he thought; you never get over the excitement last felt months before, before the winter took all this into custody.  her eyes were blind to error, and she marveled at the movement of the rod and line, once joined, and at the lovely rythm of his arm and its inanimate extension, as alive as any flesh.         she never saw what convinced the fish to strike; it happened in an unexpected fashion, devoid of violence.  he lifted the rod, but the line refused to dance; it stopped, straightened, and began to arch toward the water, and something below the surface.  then, the surface shattered, and purest light broke the crystal tension; rose curved, twisted, and fell back into the shadowed stream.  it came to her dreamlike:  that was a fish; he has caught a fish that flies.  he waded towards her, reached beneath the wetness, and showed her the prize:  fierce, wide of eye, red blaze stretching from a black head to a rainbow’s end.  it’s a rainbow, he said; she almost replied arrogantly, of course it’s a rainbow, you fool, it’s surely more than a fish.  but she just said yes, i see.  he held the fish for a moment, and it hovered, confused, she thought.  the the lightning, and it found its place, away from them.         in her pack she had carried a lunch; that was her contribution to the trip, put together before they had shared the entrance to the blue, rolling hills, before she was washed in the knowledge of the importance of this discovery about trout, and this man who fished for them.  she opened it, and they ate, not speaking of the fish, or the fishing.  when she had half finished, he looked straight at her, and said, without asking, would you come here to me?  and she did, knowing the the memories that were forming even before they were lying together, naked, resting, hovering like the handheld trout.         she had fallen in love, and she was grateful that it was in a beautiful place.         a. wayne harrison

– Ezflyfish.com http://www.ezflyfish.com BRBG http://www.abebooks.com/home/BLUEBOOKS P.O. Box 5112  Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)963-5001

Response:

Wayne, c’est un chef d’ouevre.  Magnifique mon frere (or should I say grand pere). Missing Hillary in Michigan, Mu

Response:

Counselor Now that’s a post worth reading and a thread worth building on. You’ve done it again. Congratilations. Dave

Response:

        she had listened with eyes that grew larger with each spoken image, as he tried to paint a picture of harper creek, his words matching the of the flow of the cellophane water, stretched in places to transparency, colored deep green and brown in the deeper reaches. they had known each other for exactly one week.  they sat across an oaken table in the bar where they had met:  the young lawyer, smitten with her like a stone from david’s sling, not yet dead, but brought far closer to life with the collision.; she, not yet twenty, a freshwoman, a first year student in a sleepy southern town.  lawyers could be heroes, then, and in a place like that, and she watched him watch her with a joy that she hoped was the stuff of dreams.         fishing for trout had become a subject of value for both of them.  she had asked him, earnestly, what are the things you love to do; he had said, fish for trout.  she asked why, and he said:  because they live in beautiful places.  it moved her nearly to tears, to know a man that could care more about where a thing lived than how to conquer it, or kill it.  for his part, it gave him something to give her.  something no one else had ever given her.  the end of her mountain drought.         so they drove together in search of the places and pictures he had described, with hearts quickening on first sight of the front range of the blue ridge, looking just like low, dark clouds, at first; then, rising with the loss of distance, gaining substance and losing mystery, they proclaimed the reality of the pictures.         it took a full hour of climbing in the car before they were inside those blue hills, no longer spectators.  and after that, the walking, nearly falling, downhill, towards the hushed rustle of flowing water, sounding like leaves in a far away wind. he knew the trip down was a tease, that each light step forward, gravity-aided, was a warning of the pain that waited at day’s end.  she only knew that she couldn’t wait to spend the best, or the rest, of this delicious day beside this magician, who painted pictures with words, and then made them real.           they reached the stream abruptly, the water strangely quiet where they made contact; a brief, sandy end to the trail signaled the edge of the water, reflecting every hint of light that sliced between the tree covered mountain shoulders.  she said, quickly, it’s just as you told me; he was validated by the water he loved.  he smiled as he prepared his gear, embarrassed at the clumsiness of early spring. it’s not like riding a bicycle, he thought; you never get over the excitement last felt months before, before the winter took all this into custody.  her eyes were blind to error, and she marveled at the movement of the rod and line, once joined, and at the lovely rythm of his arm and its inanimate extension, as alive as any flesh.         she never saw what convinced the fish to strike; it happened in an unexpected fashion, devoid of violence.  he lifted the rod, but the line refused to dance; it stopped, straightened, and began to arch toward the water, and something below the surface.  then, the surface shattered, and purest light broke the crystal tension; rose curved, twisted, and fell back into the shadowed stream.  it came to her dreamlike:  that was a fish; he has caught a fish that flies.  he waded towards her, reached beneath the wetness, and showed her the prize:  fierce, wide of eye, red blaze stretching from a black head to a rainbow’s end.  it’s a rainbow, he said; she almost replied arrogantly, of course it’s a rainbow, you fool, it’s surely more than a fish.  but she just said yes, i see.  he held the fish for a moment, and it hovered, confused, she thought.  the the lightning, and it found its place, away from them.         in her pack she had carried a lunch; that was her contribution to the trip, put together before they had shared the entrance to the blue, rolling hills, before she was washed in the knowledge of the importance of this discovery about trout, and this man who fished for them.  she opened it, and they ate, not speaking of the fish, or the fishing.  when she had half finished, he looked straight at her, and said, without asking, would you come here to me?  and she did, knowing the the memories that were forming even before they were lying together, naked, resting, hovering like the handheld trout.         she had fallen in love, and she was grateful that it was in a beautiful place.         a. wayne harrison

Response:

In the movie Primary Colors, a roman a clef about Bill and Hillary and Co. on the campaign trail, the actress who played Hillary (Emma Thompson) was bored to tears by a campaign contributor who just talked about flyfishing all night long. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

…         she had fallen in love, and she was grateful that it was in a beautiful place.

That’s the finest piece of fiction, without capitalization, that I’ve ever read. Thanks, Wayno. — Ken Fortenberry- hoping e.e. cummings never wrote fiction Illini 3 – Tar Heels 1

Response:

Question:

You won’t be mindin’ if we keep an eye on where the hole card comes from.  ;-)

hell no, i was going to get Honest Wayno’s Guide Service to do the dealing.  If you can’t trust an attorney, who can you trust? Personally, I was hoping one of Big John’s gals would handle the deal. About the fish, now I know why I’ve heard stories of you going through a crate of splitshot a season.  :)

don’t know ’bout ’shot…..you’d have to talk to Matt "egg-dredgin" McCray ’bout dat. Waldo, lost two wild brookies today….man I’m rusty.

Response:

This Clave thing presents a great opportunity for a human interest story for a FFing magazine. Here’s the concept. A bunch of crusty old flyfishers get together in NC. They have only two things in common: a love of flyfishing and an acquaintance through ROFF. These guys don’t know each other face-to-face, for the most part, but they are acquainted through years and years of give-and-take in a Usenet group. Imagine the group dynamics. Who can outfish whom? Who can tell the biggest lies? Who knows the perfect knot? Who has the best self-tied flies? Will they check their weapons at the door? It goes on and on. Yep, it could be a great story. If you know a good writer please clue him in. — something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This Clave thing presents a great opportunity for a human interest story for a FFing magazine. (snip) Yep, it could be a great story. If you know a good writer please clue him in.         more than one of those will be present as participants.  you will not be disappointed with the communiques from the front, nor with reviews filed upon a chance for retrospection. wayno —

wayno, can i be the gun checker? btw, was that you are chub that got the sam in the ass saturday? makes you feel like that monkey, donchano. i can’t even view it now, it hurts. i’m off….damn tax thing tomorrow. waldo

Response:

This Clave thing presents a great opportunity for a human interest story for a FFing magazine. (snip) Yep, it could be a great story. If you know a good writer please clue him in.

        more than one of those will be present as participants.  you will not be disappointed with the communiques from the front, nor with reviews filed upon a chance for retrospection. wayno – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text — something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

Mr. G. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This Clave thing presents a great opportunity for a human interest story for a FFing magazine. (snip) Yep, it could be a great story. If you know a good writer please clue him in.         more than one of those will be present as participants.  you will not be disappointed with the communiques from the front, nor with reviews filed upon a chance for retrospection. wayno — wayno, can i be the gun checker? btw, was that you are chub that got the sam in the ass saturday? makes you feel like that monkey, donchano. i can’t even view it now, it hurts. i’m off….damn tax thing tomorrow. waldo

– Visit: http://www.gink.com        http://www.xink.com        http://www.rodbuilding.com        http://www.rodbuilder.com All Writings & Rights Reserved

Question:

I don’t think I would have known or appreciated the difference between the $30.00 rod and my Sage. The next year I bought the Sage having the knowledge to appreciate the difference.

Me too- only the other way around. After having fished with the high-falootin LLs and RPls for a couple of years, a buddy of mine who mfgs IM6 kits gave me two of his 99 dollar wonder rods. Now I wonder why the hell I spent all that loot for the Sage sticks.   Just shows to go ya.

Response:

If you can still find one, a Fenwick Eagle or one of Cabela’s lessor priced rods might be a good by to start with.  Or be a MAN and get an Eagle Claw 4 piece fiberglass Spin/Fly rod for 7 wt. line.  This thing weighs in the pounds, not ounces, and if you use one all day your arm will simply fall off!  This rod will make you appreciate any dedicated graphite fly rod.  I have found that as I acquired better technique, I could truly tell the difference in rods.  As in all hobbies, you will find among fly fishers a certain group of "reverse" snobs who seem to feel that the only way to be a true disciple is to disdain anything top quality as being "too expensive" and "not worth it" and "a Dildofly Deluxe form K-Marts is just as good as a Thomas & Thomas" or "Orvis makes junk". etc.  They use crap and then belittle everything else in order to justify their choice.  I have all kinds of rods and the best feeling and casting rods are also the most expensive, a Sage SP 9′ 6 wt and a R.L. Winston LT 9′ 5 wt.  My other stuff is good but these are the cream of the crop.  Save your money and buy what you want. Don’t let some yo-yo tell you what a dumbass you are for buying quality.  I’m sure this will infuriate some folks but as my ol’ daddy once said, "Po’ folks have Po’ ways." – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – So did anyone have any suggestions for good rods in this price range. I recently saw an article in a magazine calling a pflueger rod a best buy but I can’t remember the model name of the rod. Jason, I would suggest that you try a Cortland setup, or one of the starter kits from Cabela’s. I’ve seen both for less than $100.00 and I’ve used them – they work fine. I’ve been flamed regularly for suggesting inexpensive (as opposed to cheap) flyfishing gear, but I really believe it’ll work well for you. Get an inexpensve setup and practice, practice, practice. Frank Longtine                           The Second Amendment protects your liberties, 1984 Ford                                 not your hunting rights. 1997 Rokon Trail Breaker 1993 Specialized Stumjumper Two Good Feet

Response:

try HI_TECh tackle at 414/268-9665, very favorably review in FR&R, March 1996, for (can you guess?) 40.00 to 54.99, I have 3 from 4 to 6 wt.  great back up or beginners rods.  Made in Korea

Response:

So did anyone have any suggestions for good rods in this price range. I recently saw an article in a magazine calling a pflueger rod a best buy but I can’t remember the model name of the rod. Thanks in advance, Jason Schwartz

Response:

So did anyone have any suggestions for good rods in this price range. I recently saw an article in a magazine calling a pflueger rod a best buy but I can’t remember the model name of the rod.

Jason, I would suggest that you try a Cortland setup, or one of the starter kits from Cabela’s. I’ve seen both for less than $100.00 and I’ve used them – they work fine. I’ve been flamed regularly for suggesting inexpensive (as opposed to cheap) flyfishing gear, but I really believe it’ll work well for you. Get an inexpensve setup and practice, practice, practice. Frank Longtine                           The Second Amendment protects your liberties,   1984 Ford                                 not your hunting rights.       1997 Rokon Trail Breaker                       1993 Specialized Stumjumper Two Good Feet

Response:

I’ll second that. I started out with a $30.00 rod. It worked just fine for my first year of fly fishing. When I first started out, I don’t think I would have known or appreciated the difference between the $30.00 rod and my Sage. The next year I bought the Sage having the knowledge to appreciate the difference.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -So did anyone have any suggestions for good rods in this price range. I recently saw an article in a magazine calling a pflueger rod a best buy but I can’t remember the model name of the rod. Jason, I would suggest that you try a Cortland setup, or one of the starter kits from Cabela’s. I’ve seen both for less than $100.00 and I’ve used them – they work fine. I’ve been flamed regularly for suggesting inexpensive (as opposed to cheap) flyfishing gear, but I really believe it’ll work well for you. Get an inexpensve setup and practice, practice, practice. Frank Longtine

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Question:

I am in the market for a new pair of float tube fins to replace the ones I currently use – which are Caddis fins. The new fins I am interested in buying are something called Force Fin float tube fins. They are advertised as being 40 – 60 percent more efficient than the average float tube fins on the market today. Here are some of my questions: 1. Has anyone used Force Fin float tube fins and found them better than the ones they previously used. 2. Does anyone knows how many models they have. 3. Do they (Force Fin) have a web site? Don. "May the fish be with you"

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I am in the market for a new pair of float tube fins to replace the ones I currently use – which are Caddis fins. The new fins I am interested in buying are something called Force Fin float tube fins. They are advertised as being 40 – 60 percent more efficient than the average float tube fins on the market today. Here are some of my questions: 1. Has anyone used Force Fin float tube fins and found them better than the ones they previously used.

Force fins are great if you have to hike in with them.  They are very light, and provide reasonable propulsion.   For most of my tubing, however, I use a longer, stiff scuba fin that gives me more power. 2. Does anyone knows how many models they have.

I think they have two, one fits all sizes, one comes in S, M. L. XL, etc. 3. Do they (Force Fin) have a web site?   Don’t know?

If you decide to buy them, I can put you in touch with someone who sells Force Fin cosmetic blems for a good price compared to full retail. John Woodling Sacramento, CA

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I’ve been using mine for three or four years and have no complaints. I do believe they are a little more powerful than my previous standard fins, and they are a little bit easier to "walk" in. Hope this helps! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am in the market for a new pair of float tube fins to replace the ones I currently use – which are Caddis fins. The new fins I am interested in buying are something called Force Fin float tube fins. They are advertised as being 40 – 60 percent more efficient than the average float tube fins on the market today. Here are some of my questions: 1. Has anyone used Force Fin float tube fins and found them better than the ones they previously used. 2. Does anyone knows how many models they have. 3. Do they (Force Fin) have a web site? Don. "May the fish be with you"

Response:

Personally, if you are driving to the lake, or the walk is short, forget about anything but SCUBA PRO Jet fins.  With these large rubber fins you can tube for hours and hours and never tire.  Your maneuverablilty is unbelievable and best of all you can tube faster than most powerboats out there!!!

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Hi Donald: I don’t know if it really matters, but Force Fins are scuba fins.   They’re not super big hits in the diving community though.  It’s either because they don’t work as well as regular fins or because they look plain weird. Either way, I use regular, Scuba Pro-like fins for both diving and tubing.

<snip The thing is – I don’t want to pay $100+ for a pair of Force Fin fins if it does not perform at least as good as a pair of scuba fins.

<snip

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You may be right, I beginning to think that scuba fins are better than the Caddis fins, Flip fins, Force Fin fins, or any of the short float tube fins on the market today. One of the reasons I wanted to get a new pair of float tube fins is to be able to keep up with my friends who are using scuba type fins to propel themselves. But at the same time, I wanted to be able to wear my wading boots with my fins, something that Force Fin fins will allow me to do. I was also hoping that the Force Fin fins will at least allow me to have the same thrusting power as a good pair of scuba fins. But by some of the responses I have been getting from folks here, it seems that a good pair of scuba fins may be more superior to a pair of Force Fin fins when it comes to propelling one’s float tube on the water. The thing is – I don’t want to pay $100+ for a pair of Force Fin fins if it does not perform at least as good as a pair of scuba fins. On large lakes, one does not want to expend a lot of extra energy to propel a float tube after a 3+ hour hike to get to a high mountain lake. Don. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Personally, if you are driving to the lake, or the walk is short, forget about anything but SCUBA PRO Jet fins.  With these large rubber fins you can tube for hours and hours and never tire.  Your maneuverablilty is unbelievable and best of all you can tube faster than most powerboats out there!!!

Response:

Look for fins that: 1- Cover your heel so you don’t chafe holes in your wet suit and don’t fill up easily with mud and sand when slogging around in the shallows. You can also wear booties to protect waders but it’s one more thing to buy, lug around and lose. 2- FLOAT. Diving fins are usually slightly negatively bouyant. Float tube fins do get scrubbed off when doing the heavy weed thing. Use tethers if your fins don’t float. 3- Flex rather easily. Diving fins are propelled by a slightly bent leg with most of the energy arising from the thigh, buttock and lower back. A float tube fin is propelled by the quads and a kick from the foot. Your legs will easily tire and your foot can cramp after heavy duty kicking with a long bladed, stiff dive fin. A flexy fin will sacrifice power up front but you’ll more than make up for it in the long run.    -Ralph – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You may be right, I beginning to think that scuba fins are better than the Caddis fins, Flip fins, Force Fin fins, or any of the short float tube fins on the market today. One of the reasons I wanted to get a new pair of float tube fins is to be able to keep up with my friends who are using scuba type fins to propel themselves. But at the same time, I wanted to be able to wear my wading boots with my fins, something that Force Fin fins will allow me to do. I was also hoping that the Force Fin fins will at least allow me to have the same thrusting power as a good pair of scuba fins. But by some of the responses I have been getting from folks here, it seems that a good pair of scuba fins may be more superior to a pair of Force Fin fins when it comes to propelling one’s float tube on the water. The thing is – I don’t want to pay $100+ for a pair of Force Fin fins if it does not perform at least as good as a pair of scuba fins. On large lakes, one does not want to expend a lot of extra energy to propel a float tube after a 3+ hour hike to get to a high mountain lake. Don. Personally, if you are driving to the lake, or the walk is short, forget about anything but SCUBA PRO Jet fins.  With these large rubber fins you can tube for hours and hours and never tire.  Your maneuverablilty is unbelievable and best of all you can tube faster than most powerboats out there!!!

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You may be right, I beginning to think that scuba fins are better than the Caddis fins, Flip fins, Force Fin fins, or any of the short float tube fins on the market today. One of the reasons I wanted to get a new pair of float tube fins is to be able to keep up with my friends who are using scuba type fins to propel themselves. But at the same time, I wanted to be able to wear my wading boots with my fins, something that Force Fin fins will allow me to do. I was also hoping that the Force Fin fins will at least allow me to have the same thrusting power as a good pair of scuba fins. But by some of the responses I have been getting from folks here, it seems that a good pair of scuba fins may be more superior to a pair of Force Fin fins when it comes to propelling one’s float tube on the water. The thing is – I don’t want to pay $100+ for a pair of Force Fin fins if it does not perform at least as good as a pair of scuba fins. On large lakes, one does not want to expend a lot of extra energy to propel a float tube after a 3+ hour hike to get to a high mountain lake. Don. Personally, if you are driving to the lake, or the walk is short, forget about anything but SCUBA PRO Jet fins.  With these large rubber fins you can tube for hours and hours and never tire.  Your maneuverablilty is unbelievable and best of all you can tube faster than most powerboats out there!!!

As far as the wading bots go, I use scuba fins and a pair of good ol’ Converse tennies for boots, and they work great.  I can outrace my buddy in his force fins quite handily.  He gets into the tube and the water more easily, however.

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Good points all Ralph, but are you familiar with the "Jet Fin"?  It is quite flexible though it does not cover your heel.  By the way, how’s the situation at Martis?

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am in the market for a new pair of float tube fins to replace the ones I currently use – which are Caddis fins. The new fins I am interested in buying are something called Force Fin float tube fins. They are advertised as being 40 – 60 percent more efficient than the average float tube fins on the market today. Here are some of my questions: 1. Has anyone used Force Fin float tube fins and found them better than the ones they previously used. 2. Does anyone knows how many models they have. 3. Do they (Force Fin) have a web site? Don. "May the fish be with you"

I know that Force Fins are very popular in northern California with the float-tubers. They make lots of models, but the fly shops usually carry the original model and the Adjustable. The originals come in sizes small, medium, medium/large, large, extra large and xx-large. The Adjustable come in one size and will fit over a boot or almost anything. The original sells for $85 to $99 and the Adjustable sells for $119 to $135. We sell the Caddis to people that are not traveling great distances in a day of fishing. They don’t float, so get some teethers. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY

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0] : I am in the market for a new pair of float tube fins to replace : the ones I currently use – which are Caddis fins. The new fins I : am interested in buying are something called Force Fin float tube : fins. They are advertised as being 40 – 60 percent more : efficient than the average float tube fins on the market today. : : Here are some of my questions: : : 1. Has anyone used Force Fin float tube fins and found them better : than the ones they previously used. : : 2. Does anyone knows how many models they have. : : 3. Do they (Force Fin) have a web site? : : Don. "May the fish be with you" If you would like some entertainment, try posting this question in rec.scuba and follow the resulting thread/holy-war. Mike — Michael McGuire                     Hewlett Packard Laboratories Phone: (415)-857-5491               Palo Alto, CA 94303-0971

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Question:

I’m Interested in buying a boat for shallow water fishing in Bays and Rivers (Chesapeake Bay) Can anyone give me thier opinion on the Carolina Skiffs. I’ll be flyfishing from this boat. Preferably would like to hear from skiff owners or dealers. Thanks Nick DelleDonne "The Evening Rise Fly Angler’s Shop"

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I’m Interested in buying a boat for shallow water fishing in Bays and Rivers (Chesapeake Bay) Can anyone give me thier opinion on the Carolina Skiffs. I’ll be flyfishing from this boat. Preferably would like to hear from skiff owners or dealers. Thanks Nick DelleDonne "The Evening Rise Fly Angler’s Shop"

Hi Nick: I own a Southern Skimmer,(pretty much the same boat) I love it, you don’t need much water to run in or that much power to push it. I use mine on the great south bay on long island(NY) and it gets a little bouncy when its rough but on a river or lake where it’s a little calmer it should be great. J Branca

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Question:

The latest edition of FF (December!) that arrived today has a lengthy discussion of the situation with  the Armstrong Spring Creek and the Armstrong and Dupuy ranches.  The Randolph column features some interesting pictures and a failed attempt at being unbiased in reporting the options under consideration.  At least the column did report that the survey that is being conducted on www.flyshop.com is running 76% AGAINST restoring the spring creek. Lyman Lyman G. Hughes Dallas, TX Ennis, MT

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The latest edition of FF (December!) that arrived today has a lengthy discussion of the situation with  the Armstrong Spring Creek and the Armstrong and Dupuy ranches.  The Randolph column features some interesting pictures and a failed attempt at being unbiased in reporting the options under consideration.  At least the column did report that the survey that is being conducted on www.flyshop.com is running 76% AGAINST restoring the spring creek.Hi Lyman,

That’s more or less the oppinion of the people who live in the area as well. — Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (97 catalog)

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Question:

Asking the usual question…looking for suggestions for best fly fishing in the general area of Lava Hot Springs in southern Idaho.  Appreciate it.  I might like to leave the family in the pool and seek my own kind of adventure for a day. P. Bowers

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Asking the usual question…looking for suggestions for best fly fishing in the general area of Lava Hot Springs in southern Idaho.  Appreciate it.  I might like to leave the family in the pool and seek my own kind of adventure for a day.

Check out the upper Portneuf River above Lava Hot Springs.  This river used to be pretty darn good, went downhill, and has recently undergone some stream improvement.  Ask for local directions to the old highway (not the one over Fish Creek Summit).  Try the area up around Pebble Creek.   Regards, George O. Jacox Boise, ID City of Trees

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Check out the upper Portneuf River above Lava Hot Springs.  This river used to be pretty darn good, went downhill, and has recently undergone some stream improvement.  Ask for local directions to the old highway (not the one over Fish Creek Summit).  Try the area up around Pebble Creek.  

P.S. Watch out for African lions.  <bg  Unfortunately, it’s too long a story to reproduce here.  Ask one of the locals and you’ll get an earful. Enjoy yourself on the Portneuf.  That’s the river I learned to flyfish on, many moons ago. Regards, George O. Jacox Boise, ID City of Trees

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Asking the usual question…looking for suggestions for best fly fishing in the general area of Lava Hot Springs in southern Idaho.  Appreciate it.  I might like to leave the family in the pool and seek my own kind of adventure for a day. P. Bowers

Upper Portneuf can be good. Kelly-Toponce area is best. Several access points along Rte 30 north of Lava. Downstream toward McCammon where the big bridge crosses the river there is an irrigation diversion, some swampy spots and several channels. Some decent browns there but very difficult to get to. You might also try tubing Chesterfield Reservoir (on upper Portneuf) or 24-Mile Reservoir. Both can be very good. Next few weeks might be tough though. The algae comes up off the bottom in big clumps a couple feet across and inches thick and clog the surface. It’s about that time. Should sink again or break up by mid-Sep. Another place you might consider that’s fairly close is the upper Blackfoot River. See the article in October Western Flyfishing mag. I was there last weekend. Lots of cutts, but mostly small. Still fun though. If you’re in Pocatello, stop at Jimmy’s All Seasons Angler and find out what’s what. There are a bunch of other reservoirs in the area that are pretty good. Luck & Tight Lines! Lance    web stuff at: www.primenet.com/~hankins

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Question:

Any FF opportunties in Tennessee or shall I leave my fly rod at home? I’m going to be in Nashville on business. -steve

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Stop by Cumberland Transit Flyfishing on West End Just west of Vanderbilt U. Jim, Chris, Eric or I will try and help. We’ve had lots of rain however and the tailwaters, which are closest are running very high. Jack

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Any FF opportunties in Tennessee or shall I leave my fly rod at home? I’m going to be in Nashville on business. -steve

The Caney Fork is about 45 minutes away, but the generation schedules have been tough lately.  Both the Duck and the Elk Rivers are 1.5-2 hours away, and they generate less frequently than the Caney Fork. The CF and the Elk are good trout waters; you’ll occasionally see Browns in the range of 2-6 pounds.  There are also some trout streams west of Nashville that are not tailwaters, but I can’t give you much info on them.  I haven’t fished any of them yet. Jerry Cobb Nashville, TN

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Question:

All the comments so far are quite interesting to me because I have yet to own a rod over 8′ in length. I built a 8′   6 wt.  st croix and a 7′2" 3 wt. st croix for myself two years ago and have only used the 8′ a dozen times.  The short light rod is just a ball to use and I have caught some good fish on it!  1 to 4 lb largemouth, tuns o sunfish, 61/2 lb. brown, 9 lb carp,  4 1/2 lb smallmouth buffalo.There aren’t many things I would trade my small short rod for. The superiority of one man’s opinion over another’s is never so great as when the opinion is about fishing. Tim ILBTim

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I find a 9ft quality 5 wt. idealfdor all fresh water fishing. Unless you are fishing very small streams stick wit what you have unless money is no object.

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Short rods definitely are useful and fun, especially on small brushy streams.  Lamiglass makes some short rods, with the smallest around 51/2 ft.  St. Croix used to make some nice ones back in the days of glass, but I have no idea what their line is now.

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Short rods are advantageous in tight conditions with canopy type overgrowth.  A long rod in this situation would always be stuck in the canopy.  In areas where most of the cover is on the banks and not overhanging the river, a longer rod will allow you to  backcast over the obstructions more easily, is more accurate (like having a longer finger to point with) and definitely gives you better line handling and mending.  So as many answers to  fly fishing questions goes,  "It all depends".  Make your choice depending on the conditions or personal preferance. Lee Wulff once said that he didn’t fish short rods because they were better, but because they were more challenging and he enjoyed fishing them more than long rods.  Check out Joan Wulff’s book for some specialty casts to use with short rods.                                                               Dan Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Short rods are advantageous in tight conditions with canopy type overgrowth.  A long rod in this situation would always be stuck in the canopy.  In areas where most of the cover is on the banks and not overhanging the river, a longer rod will allow you to  backcast over the obstructions more easily, is more accurate (like having a longer finger to point with) and definitely gives you better line handling and mending.  So as many answers to  fly fishing questions goes,  "It all depends".   Make your choice depending on the conditions or personal preferance. Lee Wulff once said that he didn’t fish short rods because they were better, but because they were more challenging and he enjoyed fishing them more than long rods.  Check out Joan Wulff’s book for some specialty casts to use with short rods.                                                              Dan Dan Gracia                                                             Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

Re: Short fly rods Don’t forget that long rods can really come in handy if you fish stillwater from a belly boat. I fish an out of production (I think) Orvis 10 1/2′ in my tube. The minor inconviences are easily outweighed by the advantages of the extra length. Like you said, "It all depends…" Good luck, Nash

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IMHO, I have a Sage 7.5′ 4wt and I love it! The majority of fishing I do is on small spring streams and it is perfect.  I have other rods, longer and heavier, but this one is definitely my favorite. D.P.

The best rod I own is an Orvis "Tippet" 7.5′ 3wt 1.5 oz.. I use it for trout and panfish. It’s the first rod that I grab and the one I use when I dream about fishing.

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I’ve used my Orvis Flea, 6 1/2′ 4 weight almost exclusively for the last two years. Originally bought it for small s.w. Michigan streams with low canopies but have had success on local northern Indiana ponds and even the Yellow Breeches in PA. You need a very smooth knot between leader and fly line because you’ll probably reel in that much to reach fish or to use net. On the plus side, almost any size fish gives your outfit a battle and the shorter rod makes you work on better casting mechanics for longer casts.

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IMO, the biggest disadvantage to short rods is their limited ability to mend line, especially on big rivers.   I use a 9 foot rod for 95% of the fishing I do.  On smaller rivers, like the local Cache la Poudre, I prefer an 8 foot; shorter rods seem to work better for shorter casts. When I get rich some day, working for the government (right) I’d like to get a 9.5 foot six or seven weight for nymphinig big rivers. Generally speaking, the bigger the water, the bigger the rod. — -Wayne Trzyna

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Doug, The Mighty Mite is a 5wt!  You may just be able to get a nice Salmon or Steelhead if you are careful.  Most likely, you could not get a Steelie or Salmon on a 6′ 1wt.  The MM is and was not a gimmic when sold.  It was offered as a short all around rod.  They are rare and collectable, dont break it! Sean

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IMHO, it depends on where you plan on fishing.  If you’re on the big rivers, I’d go with a longer rod.  Physically, they are capable of putting out more line (higher rod tip speed, etc.).  If, however, you’re like me and are ducking overhanging branches and the like, I would STRONGLY recommend a short rod.  I have a 7′2" 4wt that I absoulutely LOVE!  My first rod was a 9′6" 5wt that was nice, just had to be so careful about tree fishing.  Also, I really don’t think the added length makes too much of a difference in relation to distance unless you start talking about throwing flies way out there, because I’ve never been let down by the short rod in trying to hit a spot.  My suggestion, go with the short! Terry

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Also, who do you think won the war between the rods?  Lefty Kreh and the long rods? or Ed Shenk et al and the short ones?

Jim, I think a random sampling of rod vendors’ offerings is more than sufficient to answer this question. Rods 8ft or longer in length are the rule, with rods under 8ft being the overwhelming minority. (In fact, this is probably also true if the criterion were 9ft or longer for a "long" rod.) This is not to criticize short rod proponents; only to point out that there is very little question on this subject if you look to the marketplace as your measurement of "who won the war". Regards, Fred

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I am interested in knowledge about short fly rods, particulary fiberglass but also graphite.  Line weights 3 – 5.  Also, rods that are for sale.   There have been waves of interest in these small rods in the past, probably started by Lee Wulff and Arnold Gingrich, but also Ed Shenk.  I am interested in your experience with the short ones, different manufacturers, lengths, shortcomings, etc., not commercialized opinion driven by marketing usually published in the fly fishing journals.  Also, who do you think won the war between the rods?  Lefty Kreh and the long rods? or Ed Shenk et al and the short ones? Thanks. J. H.

Jim: Just my own experience, but I have a 6′6" Loomis GL3 (graphite) 3-weight that I really like to use on small streams.  I have caught trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and lots of panfish on it and really love to use it. It does, however, leave a lot to be desired if you are fishing in a wind.  I think that part has as much to do with the line weight as the length, but the two are probably related. Finally, if your small stream fishing includes dropping nymphs along cutbanks without actual casting, a 9′ rod works a lot better for that. Still, there is something that is just FUN about throwing a light line and a tiny fly on a short rod.  I think it makes me a better fisherman with my other rods. Thanks, Bob

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IMHO, I have a Sage 7.5′ 4wt and I love it! The majority of fishing I do is on small spring streams and it is perfect.  I have other rods, longer and heavier, but this one is definitely my favorite. D.P.

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    IMHO, short rods (beginning with the bamboo type) have always been of interest to some fishermen because there have been promoters of fishing with them, especially the late Lee Wulff.  He could cast very long distances with a short rod, as well as land very large fish.  In the world of bamboo, a very heavy material, a short rod was a light rod.       The advent of graphite has eliminated weight as a consideration in rod length.  So now we can return to consideration of basic principles like the length of the rod as a lever for casting or its applicability for handling or manipulating line on the water.  And in this regard, a longer rod is preferable, all other things being equal.  Many of the light weight rods (by line size) are now relatively lengthy – few under 8′ and many at 9′ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -The short rod interest has really confused me as of late also.  I have always favored a shortish rod for the fishing I do in the Sierra and High  Sierra.  There really is no scientific fact for this, they are simply easier to carry and cast in tight conditions with light line. The trout are seldom over 12", so the short, light rod makes fair game of them.   The 1oz, 1 and 2wt. rods are gimmics in my opinion.  I have used one particular model and felt I did the fish I caught some real harm, by not bringing them in quick enough. The rod simply wouldnt allow it. I was using the rod to get a feel for the action and casting abilities and comparing it to light cane rods.  While I know of no 1 or 2wt. cane rods, there was a significant difference between this rod and 3 and 4wt. cane.  The cane has the same sweet action and feel (heavier yes) but brought fish to the hand much faster. I believe this is another fad the industry is going through.  Much has been written over th past two years about short, light rods.  So much so, that the once common and inexpensive short cane rods have become the rage across the country.  This is both good and bad.  Bad, because I really cant afford to buy the SB 290’s and HI Tonka Princes any longer, at the rate I break them. . But good because, these really are decent rods and deserve some respect.  As with anything "collectable" the prices will certinly rise to unaffordability soon enough. Thoughts out there? Regards, Sean

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The short rod interest has really confused me as of late also.  I have always favored a shortish rod for the fishing I do in the Sierra and High Sierra.  There really is no scientific fact for this, they are simply easier to carry and cast in tight conditions with light line. The trout are seldom over 12", so the short, light rod makes fair game of them.   The 1oz, 1 and 2wt. rods are gimmics in my opinion.  I have used one particular model and felt I did the fish I caught some real harm, by not bringing them in quick enough. The rod simply wouldnt allow it. I was using the rod to get a feel for the action and casting abilities and comparing it to light cane rods.  While I know of no 1 or 2wt. cane rods, there was a significant difference between this rod and 3 and 4wt. cane.  The cane has the same sweet action and feel (heavier yes) but brought fish to the hand much faster. I believe this is another fad the industry is going through.  Much has been written over th past two years about short, light rods.  So much so, that the once common and inexpensive short cane rods have become the rage across the country.  This is both good and bad.  Bad, because I really cant afford to buy the SB 290’s and HI Tonka Princes any longer, at the rate I break them. . But good because, these really are decent rods and deserve some respect.  As with anything "collectable" the prices will certinly rise to unaffordability soon enough. Thoughts out there? Regards, Sean

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