Question:

I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Response:

Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

There are times, like climbing, skiing, or hiking through dense brush, where having a minimalist pack is preferred, with no appendages to get snagged. Most outdoor shops sell a variety of add-on pockets which attach to the various compression straps on the pack, top, sides and back. There are also some for the hip belt and shoulder straps for quick access to water, snacks, map, compass, camera, etc., without removing the pack. Happy trails, Gary (net.yogi.bear) at the 51st percentile of ursine intelligence Gary D. Schwartz, Needham, MA, USA Please reply to: garyDOTschwartzATpoboxDOTcom

Response:

If possible add a few fanny packs to the pack and use them for storage, compression and small day packs. You might want to start using a water bladder/hose assembly instead of a bottle. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

The Kelty Cloud has modular pockets that can be purchased separate.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Since some of the add-on systems are real brand specific, some people get afterkmarket pockets sewn permanently onto the packs. penny – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

I’m not a pro, but I’ve used that pack and was also frustrated by the mesh pockets, especially seeing that the compression straps go right over the pocket.  Who the heck thought up that bright idea? There is one external pocket that’s on the very top in the detachable fanny pack.  I kept small stuff in that pocket, and also used it to keep a hydration bladder.  That worked much better than fighting to get a water bottle in and out of those mesh pockets. Joel

Response:

this looks like what you’re talking about: http://www.duraflexbuckles.com/duraflex/page12_13/page12_13.htm That is it! Thank you very much!

   We get some other clips at $.15 a set if we buy 2000 sets;o)    Ed Huesers

Response:

That is it! Thank you very much! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was thinking of something smaller and lighter. You see them on the ends of shoulder straps for all kinds of bags such as camera bags and luggage; the keychain clip in a daypack, and other stuff. They commonly snap into D rings and sometimes include a swivel. Hand loops on your pack straps have them. So the hand loops on many trekking poles. For such light duty, I had in mind something in black nylon abut 1.25 inches long. The heavy metal ones are used to clip into the links os a chain.    Well, this looks like what you’re talking about: http://www.duraflexbuckles.com/duraflex/page12_13/page12_13.htm    Ed Huesers    http://www.grandshelters.com

Response:

I was thinking of something smaller and lighter. You see them on the ends of shoulder straps for all kinds of bags such as camera bags and luggage; the keychain clip in a daypack, and other stuff. They commonly snap into D rings and sometimes include a swivel. Hand loops on your pack straps have them. So the hand loops on many trekking poles. For such light duty, I had in mind something in black nylon abut 1.25 inches long. The heavy metal ones are used to clip into the links os a chain.

   Well, this looks like what you’re talking about: http://www.duraflexbuckles.com/duraflex/page12_13/page12_13.htm    Ed Huesers    http://www.grandshelters.com

Response:

Visit your local fishing (especially fly fishing) store.  They have just what you’re looking forl  Looks like a necklace with clips for all kinds of little tools.  I wouldn’t be caught dead using one, but that’s just me.  I’m not a "purist" fly fisher anyway.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Related question. –I have been wanting to use clips rather than a pocket for small items like compass, thermometer, knife, led flashlight and similar lanyard fodder. I would like to wear one lanyard and just clip the items to it or to my pack or my belt as needed. However, I need the clips. The only ones that I can find in local hardware stores are big, heavy steel ones.:-(  I would prefer light, cheap, plastic clips like you see on commercial goods. Does anyone have a source? I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Response:

I was thinking of something smaller and lighter. You see them on the ends of shoulder straps for all kinds of bags such as camera bags and luggage; the keychain clip in a daypack, and other stuff. They commonly snap into D rings and sometimes include a swivel. Hand loops on your pack straps have them. So the hand loops on many trekking poles. For such light duty, I had in mind something in black nylon abut 1.25 inches long. The heavy metal ones are used to clip into the links os a chain. I have a few of the keychain mini’biners but since I would clip them to a D ring or cord, they should be more bulky, heavy, and expensive than ideal. The nylon ones should be dirt cheap, half the size, and half the weight of even an mini’biner but only IF I can find some. I also camp with a BSA Troop so even if I buy a bag of 50-100, I could put them to use. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Have you considered using rock climbing carabiners?  The actual "for climbing use" ones probably aren’t any lighter than the steel clips you found at the hardware store, but lots of places (REI, etc.) sell lightweight keychain carabiners.  I clip a few of those on my pack and use them to attach random stuff. Related question. –I have been wanting to use clips rather than a pocket for small items like compass, thermometer, knife, led flashlight and similar lanyard fodder. I would like to wear one lanyard and just clip the items to it or to my pack or my belt as needed. However, I need the clips. The only ones that I can find in local hardware stores are big, heavy steel ones.:-(  I would prefer light, cheap, plastic clips like you see on commercial goods. Does anyone have a source? I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Response:

Have you considered using rock climbing carabiners?  The actual "for climbing use" ones probably aren’t any lighter than the steel clips you found at the hardware store, but lots of places (REI, etc.) sell lightweight keychain carabiners.  I clip a few of those on my pack and use them to attach random stuff.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Related question. –I have been wanting to use clips rather than a pocket for small items like compass, thermometer, knife, led flashlight and similar lanyard fodder. I would like to wear one lanyard and just clip the items to it or to my pack or my belt as needed. However, I need the clips. The only ones that I can find in local hardware stores are big, heavy steel ones.:-(  I would prefer light, cheap, plastic clips like you see on commercial goods. Does anyone have a source? I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Response:

I am not sure what plastic clips you are referring to.  I have an old style metal shower curtain ring on my pack for hanging wet sox, but I have used it for haning other items as well.  Wal-Mart carries them.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Related question. –I have been wanting to use clips rather than a pocket for small items like compass, thermometer, knife, led flashlight and similar lanyard fodder. I would like to wear one lanyard and just clip the items to it or to my pack or my belt as needed. However, I need the clips. The only ones that I can find in local hardware stores are big, heavy steel ones.:-(  I would prefer light, cheap, plastic clips like you see on commercial goods. Does anyone have a source?

Response:

Related question. –I have been wanting to use clips rather than a pocket for small items like compass, thermometer, knife, led flashlight and similar lanyard fodder. I would like to wear one lanyard and just clip the items to it or to my pack or my belt as needed. However, I need the clips. The only ones that I can find in local hardware stores are big, heavy steel ones.:-(  I would prefer light, cheap, plastic clips like you see on commercial goods. Does anyone have a source? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I recently bought an REI New Star, a 2000 model, at significant savings over the usual price.  I like the pack; size, fit, durability, price…all suit me.  (Did I say I was new at this?)  But the stinking thing has no outside pockets, except for a couple useless mesh pockets, and no daisy chain. There are a few lash points, which I am using for tent poles and my sleeping pad. Is there a retail product, like an add-on compartment, that can be added to the pack.  I hate the idea of all this junk hanging off my otherwise sleek pack, but the lack of readily accessible pockets is maddening.  It took an act of olympic contortion just to pull a water bottle from the mesh pockets, and getting it back in the pocket was almost impossible without removing the pack. How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues?

Response:

I have a Gregory Reality with mesh pockets that have compression straps that go over them.  I put my stove bottle and water filter in the mesh pockets. The compression straps keep them from falling out.  I like the system.

Good point – I take back my blanket condemnation of the idea.  So they’re good for fuel and other stuff, bad for water bottles. Joel

Response:

In cold temps I carry a water bottle on my pack belt in a special holder(Gregory sells these too).  When it warms up I use a hydration bag and drinking tube.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a Gregory Reality with mesh pockets that have compression straps that go over them.  I put my stove bottle and water filter in the mesh pockets. The compression straps keep them from falling out.  I like the system. Good point – I take back my blanket condemnation of the idea.  So they’re good for fuel and other stuff, bad for water bottles. Joel

Response:

I have a Gregory Reality with mesh pockets that have compression straps that go over them.  I put my stove bottle and water filter in the mesh pockets.  The compression straps keep them from falling out.  I like the system. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How do you pros handle quick accessibliltity issues? I’m not a pro, but I’ve used that pack and was also frustrated by the mesh pockets, especially seeing that the compression straps go right over the pocket.  Who the heck thought up that bright idea? There is one external pocket that’s on the very top in the detachable fanny pack.  I kept small stuff in that pocket, and also used it to keep a hydration bladder.  That worked much better than fighting to get a water bottle in and out of those mesh pockets. Joel

Response:

Question:

In little to know wind, you’ll be ok unless you’ve got a big bimini or hardtop to act as a sail.  I had a 28lb electric on the stern of a 20′ CC of 4000#s that was adequate in very light wind.  The light thrust was slow in starting or stopping, but worked fine once the mass got moving.  It was a high sided boat, so wind was a big problem if more than 10 knots.  Bow mounts are a lot easier to control and track better, so that would be preferrable to a stern mount.  I would have preferred a Bow mount of about 50 lbs, but did not want to incurr the cost of extra batteries and a new motor.  I already had the 28# motor from an earlier boat. BillS – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone used an engine mounted trolling motor on a boat of at least 19′? I have a 19′ cc fishing boat that usually has three people aboard and I wonder if one 55lb thrust motor is anywhere enough to move the boat or should I double up with the motors. I’m looking at the Navigator dual 110 (2 motors). Any info will be appreciated. Thanks,,,Ted

Response:

Has anyone used an engine mounted trolling motor on a boat of at least 19′? I have a 19′ cc fishing boat that usually has three people aboard and I wonder if one 55lb thrust motor is anywhere enough to move the boat or should I double up with the motors. I’m looking at the Navigator dual 110 (2 motors). Any info will be appreciated. Thanks,,,Ted

Response:

I’m interested in this subject too, although I have a lowly 14′ bowrider.  I would very much like to have a trolling motor, since 90% of what we do is fishing, but to put one on the bow would impair the little space available, and there is no room on the stern. We normally boat on small lakes with little to no current. — "Stay calm.  Be brave.  Wait for the signs." regards, Frank Johansen Aurora, Ontario

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone used an engine mounted trolling motor on a boat of at least 19′? I have a 19′ cc fishing boat that usually has three people aboard and I wonder if one 55lb thrust motor is anywhere enough to move the boat or should I double up with the motors. I’m looking at the Navigator dual 110 (2 motors). Any info will be appreciated. Thanks,,,Ted

Response:

There are some who equate 12-15# of thrust to one horsepower, although the two units of measure aren’t really the same and that number can sure be argued with. If a 3 hp outboard is enough to do what you want in the trolling department, it might work. They are quiet and inobtrusive. Look at a Minn Kota.  http://www.minnkotamotors.com/ This unit sure wouldn’t get you home on that boat in the event your main engine goes out unless you have ideal water/current/wind conditions and a LOT of batteries.

Response:

Question:

The Sages tend to be faster, more athletic rods, (US made if thats important to you)generally preferred in the West, imitated by others, a bit more expensive, but why waste money on an imitation? Dave Biased, they are made down the road.

Response:

I will say one thing about T&T. They have the prettiest rod cases in the business.

Plus I like the way they include a plastic dowel with their rod bags so that you don’t accidentally damage the rod tip by attempting to shove it into a folded bag.  My guess regarding the rod tube is that it’s from REC. Noticed that some of the Winston’s now appear to be using REC cases (or really good knock-offs). Mu

Response:

My apologies to Mu and the rest of you. If I would have known he meant one east-coast sissy boy in particular, rather than collectively, I would’ve understood immediately this was an inside joke.

My apologies too, soft-hackle.  I purposely did not append a to my post because it was in response to Wayne – who really does have a love affair with T&T.  There are lots of people here on ROFF and the regular posters by virtue of their familiarity with one another often make some people feel excluded.  But hey, I’m glad you spoke up cuz it gave us all a chance to know each other a little better than we did before.  No harm done. BTW, I do like using baitcasting equipment on occasion.  Feeling the humming of a fine piece of machinery under my thumb and making pinpoint casts into cover – well there is a certain pleasure to it.  I also own a minnow trap.  I find trapping/gathering my own bait to be fun too. Sometimes chucking a big spoon from the beach and watching it disappear behind the third gut is a thing of beauty in itself.  A favorite technique of mine for largemouth bass is to pitch an unweighted plastic worm and let it sink ever so slowly, twitching it so that it seems barely alive, until either I can’t stand it any more and have to recast or the fish can’t stand it any more and pounces upon the lure.  Even so, I find that 98% of my fishing is done with a fly rod.  I like tying up my own flies and testing them afield.  In fact I made a commitment in June to fish a single fly for three straight months (2 trips per week) to see if it really was effective or not.  Although I too feel that it’s silly for some people to get hung up on their equipment and techniques, I don’t begrudge them. We all have our own reasons why we fish – but in general most of us do it because it’s fun, plain and simple. Mu

Response:

My apologies to Mu and the rest of you. If I would have known he meant one east-coast sissy boy in particular, rather than collectively, I would’ve understood immediately this was an inside joke. Soft Hackle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Mu is a highly respected and *cliquish* member of ROFF, thus I am sure he is not in the least confuse as to which rod is best used for flyfishin’!

Response:

I built a Sage 10 wt. RPL+ about 6 years ago. Have used it to catch about 500 salmon all the species in alaska. It is without a doubt the best rod I have ever fished with!! I have no experience with T&T so i can not offer any suggestions along that line. You will however be quite happy with any Sage

Response:

Mu is a highly respected and *cliquish* member of ROFF, thus I am sure he is not in the least confuse as to which rod is best used for flyfishin’! Op

 I personally don’t – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – confuse my flyrod with my real rod, as you seem to be doing. Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. Mu yfitgs

Response:

to the scene of his latest crimes and snibbled: Discussions on the relative merits of various pieces of equipment are all well and good, but   It’s the stupidity of the question.  Its like asking "Plastic vs. Plastic". George was not here.  It’s your imagination.

And you were WAY too optimistic, wayno… /daytripper (Shall we proceed apace to Game 2?

Response:

Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. …qualities with a certain brand of rod. I personally don’t confuse my flyrod with my real rod, as you seem to be doing. LOL. No worries, soft-hackle. Mu was simply yanking the chain of Wayno (the T&T bigot) and daytripper (the Winston bigot).

This should illustrate that we fully tolerate the unfortunate naifs who get burned by their lack of historical perspective Anyway…One should consider that there are few more cordial bigots than Winston bigots (if I do say so myself I consider myself in the very good company of those similarly afflicted – even those who occasionally experience moments of weakness and fall off the wagon to acquire a Sage, Loomis, TT, or even <shudder Scott… (Orvis, however, is right out!!) [I'll also take this opportunity to point out to my good friend in The Old North State that my littlest Winston 6/2 stood up to an entire day in the hands of the notorious Pamlico Jim Roberts on Upper Lower Middle Upper Creek, whilst your 8/2 TT didn't even survive the walk in. You had the wrong dog, son ] /daytripper (Smoke’em, fish’em, gotta love dem Winstons!

Response:

Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. …qualities with a certain brand of rod. I personally don’t confuse my flyrod with my real rod, as you seem to be doing.

LOL. No worries, soft-hackle. Mu was simply yanking the chain of Wayno (the T&T bigot) and daytripper (the Winston bigot). –Steve

Response:

Sage discontinued the two best lines they ever made, the LL and SPL+. When they did that I started building T&T rods and appreciated the advantages of T&T over anything else I have built including Winston. Just curious – Do you sling meat from a baitcasting rig when the flyfishing is slow? The reason I ask is that baitcasters and bassholes are the only types of self-styled anglers who associate manhood with the brand of "fishing pole" being used. Most genuine anglers are confident enough in themselves not to compensate for shortcomings by identifying their personal qualities with a certain brand of rod. I personally don’t confuse my flyrod with my real rod, as you seem to be doing. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. Mu yfitgs

Response:

Discussions on the relative merits of various pieces of equipment are all well and good, but  

It’s the stupidity of the question.  Its like asking "Plastic vs. Plastic". George was not here.  It’s your imagination.

Response:

This is probably going to create a flame, but before I went to the expense of building one of these two rods, I would see if a local fly shops had them in stock and perhaps would let you cast them. I own one of the two rods and have tried the other. I am not the world’s greatest caster, but one fits my casting style much better than the other. After 65 years in this sport, I think a lot of people buy rods based upon brand name rather than trying to find one that fits your particular casting style and ability.

There is a great deal of truth in what you say.  On the other hand, fly casters are much more adaptable than are the tools they use.  Much is written here about the characteristics of various pieces of equipment and how they may suit one person’s ability and style more than another’s.  Much less attention is given to the fact that any competent caster can do pretty well with just about any broomstick or girder.  If a lot of people buy based on considerations other than what best suits their own personal physics it is probably just as well.  Even test casting a rod, reel, and line combination out in the parking lot for ten minutes isn’t really going to tell you all that much about performance out in the creek.  And in truth, one setup might suit an individual angler very well under a certain set of circumstances and be entirely unsatisfactory given different conditions even in the same stretch of a single stream. Discussions on the relative merits of various pieces of equipment are all well and good, but I think most anglers would benefit more from analysis of their own performance than they do from that of their gear. Wolfgang who is dreadfully sorry about the lack of heat.      

Response:

I, my ultimate preference is T&T.    good post.  many will agree. wayno

Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. Mu yfitgs

Response:

I, my ultimate preference is T&T. good post.  many will agree. wayno Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. Mu yfitgs

    unethical. wayno yfitons (thwtgs) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

I’m looking to build a new 9 wt. rod for the saltwater and stealhead.  I’m between the Sage RPLXi and the Winston Boron XTR.  Any opinions on which is better.  I know its about personal preference but I’d like some outside opinions.

I don’t know about the Winston, but I have a Sage RPLXi 9 weight. Very powerful rod. It’s perfect for bonefish, and particularly for casting heavy flies into a stiff wind. I’ve used it for steelhead, but I feel it’s too fast (i.e., stiff) for that.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I, my ultimate preference is T&T. good post.  many will agree. wayno Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. Mu yfitgs     unethical.

Hey, Wayno. How’s that T&T with the "special action" that you loaned to Pamlico Jim? I will say one thing about T&T. They have the prettiest rod cases in the business.

Response:

Hey, Wayno. How’s that T&T with the "special action" that you loaned to Pamlico Jim?

He got it repaired, but it has lost a certain charm now. <g — Charlie…

Response:

Hey, Wayno. How’s that T&T with the "special action" that you loaned to Pamlico Jim?

    that is the rod i am using in zimbo’s pics of our recent small water adventure. they repaired it at no cost.  it is a wonder of an 8′ 2wt.     thanks for askin.  :) your friend in the old north state wayno

Response:

I’d go for the Sage personally. Clark – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I, my ultimate preference is T&T. good post.  many will agree. wayno Yeah, many an east-coast sissy boy will agree! Think Sage. Mu yfitgs

Response:

Of the two, for pure casting ability the XTR, even I can shoot an entire line with the darn thing,  as an overall fishing rod the RPLXi, tho I would suggest you consider the BL5 from Winston. Rod seems soft at first and it is a *soft action* SW rod, but back cast once and let it go…,

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking to build a new 9 wt. rod for the saltwater and stealhead.  I’m between the Sage RPLXi and the Winston Boron XTR.  Any opinions on which is better.  I know its about personal preference but I’d like some outside opinions. Thanks Dru

Response:

This is probably going to create a flame, but before I went to the expense of building one of these two rods, I would see if a local fly shops had them in stock and perhaps would let you cast them. I own one of the two rods and have tried the other. I am not the world’s greatest caster, but one fits my casting style much better than the other. After 65 years in this sport, I think a lot of people buy rods based upon brand name rather than trying to find one that fits your particular casting style and ability. Jack in Tn.

Response:

This is probably going to create a flame, but before I went to the expense of building one of these two rods, I would see if a local fly shops had them in stock and perhaps would let you cast them. I own one of the two rods and have tried the other. I am not the world’s greatest caster, but one fits my casting style much better than the other. After 65 years in this sport, I think a lot of people buy rods based upon brand name rather than trying to find one that fits your particular casting style and ability. Jack in Tn.

it might muddy the water a bit, but all the rods listed are extremely nice rods that cast very well.  i personally fish the sage rplxi’s quite a bit… but have cast the winstons and like them too… and the scott’s aint too shabby either… and the t&t’s cast beautifully… and so do the st. croix legend ultras (as a lower cost alternative). chris

Response:

I, my ultimate preference is T&T. Soft Hackle

        good post.  many will agree. wayno

Response:

I prefer Sage to Winston for building rods. True, Winston aesthetics are superior but if you are building the rod you can select your own components. However, my ultimate preference is T&T. Soft Hackle – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking to build a new 9 wt. rod for the saltwater and stealhead.  I’m between the Sage RPLXi and the Winston Boron XTR.  Any opinions on which is better.  I know its about personal preference but I’d like some outside opinions. Thanks Dru

Response:

I’m looking to build a new 9 wt. rod for the saltwater and stealhead.  I’m between the Sage RPLXi and the Winston Boron XTR.  Any opinions on which is better.  I know its about personal preference but I’d like some outside opinions. Thanks Dru

Response:

Question:

That says it all George, that says it all…… well done. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _____  In the world of fly fishing, which R.O.F.F. really is basically about, the subjects involved in this world that really belongs to trout, waver like some kind of stellar magnetic field.  First you feel it and then you don’t.  Some plunge into black holes or abyss’s never seeming to be able to return to the art form again. Not that long ago, back in January the journey began.  With nothing but the promises offered by roff and the dares, I stood up to be counted . . . and I performed the dance of a monkey on strings.  I listened, I pouted, I reprimanded, I took and applied all sorts of advice that to this day are in the signature of each BastardBamboo.   I had stated that Bamboo Fly Rods were much too expensive for the common layman to afford.  I said that there were more people without a bamboo fly rod then those who had them and that, in my opinion ~ this was wrong.  I said, I could make a bamboo fly rod for only $150 (not including tax we overlooked at the time) that the majority COULD afford.  $300 plus excise was the goal.  That goal is alive and active. The promise has been kept. There are still the expensive fly rods ranging from well over this low, lowest commercial price to a range that touches $7,000.  Charges of between $1,000 to $3,000 is still unmoved.  This is good and these fly rods are certainly worth it to those that can afford them. No matter what, there are those who are watching the Bastard project in abstract interest.  When they ‘think’ there is money involved, they will enter this challenge thinking they can do it better then I.  The result, I promise, because of my willingness to try will be a drastic down spiral in Bamboo Retail Prices. Now, we all realize there are many that would love to see me fail.  So? I’ve failed before.  I have lots of experience in that arena.  Win or lose, this is going to end up being a win/win result for all of fly fishing in the entire world.  Wait and see.  The day may very well arrive when some of you will be fishing a "Sapphire Fly Rod,"  or a "Sweet Thing Fly Rod" or a "Presidential Fly Rod," but you will all be wrong.  No matter what, every one of them will really be "A Bastard Fly Rod."  I was there first.  I will always be there. Mr. G.

Response:

[dribble snipped]

A short note on the fine art of sarcasm: dribble:   To move a basketball down the floor by bouncing it repeatedly on that floor while walking or running.  May also be done while standing in one spot. dribble:  To allow saliva to escape from one’s pie hole while dribbling a basketball….or not. The nonsense which you accuse George of disseminating and which is also exemplified by endless repetition of SPAM SPAM SPAM…….is DRIVEL!!

Response:

_____  In the world of fly fishing, which R.O.F.F. really is basically about, the subjects involved in this world that really belongs to trout, waver like some kind of stellar magnetic field.  First you feel it and then you don’t.  Some plunge into black holes or abyss’s never seeming to be able to return to the art form again. Not that long ago, back in January the journey began.  With nothing but the promises offered by roff and the dares, I stood up to be counted . . . and I performed the dance of a monkey on strings.  I listened, I pouted, I reprimanded, I took and applied all sorts of advice that to this day are in the signature of each BastardBamboo.   I had stated that Bamboo Fly Rods were much too expensive for the common layman to afford.  I said that there were more people without a bamboo fly rod then those who had them and that, in my opinion ~ this was wrong.  I said, I could make a bamboo fly rod for only $150 (not including tax we overlooked at the time) that the majority COULD afford.  $300 plus excise was the goal.  That goal is alive and active. The promise has been kept. There are still the expensive fly rods ranging from well over this low, lowest commercial price to a range that touches $7,000.  Charges of between $1,000 to $3,000 is still unmoved.  This is good and these fly rods are certainly worth it to those that can afford them. No matter what, there are those who are watching the Bastard project in abstract interest.  When they ‘think’ there is money involved, they will enter this challenge thinking they can do it better then I.  The result, I promise, because of my willingness to try will be a drastic down spiral in Bamboo Retail Prices. Now, we all realize there are many that would love to see me fail.  So? I’ve failed before.  I have lots of experience in that arena.  Win or lose, this is going to end up being a win/win result for all of fly fishing in the entire world.  Wait and see.  The day may very well arrive when some of you will be fishing a "Sapphire Fly Rod,"  or a "Sweet Thing Fly Rod" or a "Presidential Fly Rod," but you will all be wrong.  No matter what, every one of them will really be "A Bastard Fly Rod."  I was there first.  I will always be there. Mr. G.

Response:

[dribble snipped] Mr. G.

SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM AND MORE SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM

Response:

Jeff has the right idea.

[The rantings of a pompous old windbag snipped] Mr. G.

SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM AND MORE SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM SPAM

Response:

BTW, I used nothing but Albolene at the Fall Ball.   In the words of George G, "It works!" Louie

Just out of curiousity, how well did it work? Better? Didn’t notice any difference?  Can you say without any bias that it works on par or better than what I use already? There are several products out there that work, some better than others.  I am always open to one of the "better than others."  Until I find a better, I will continue using what I am currently using. Warren Remember, men will come and men will go, but the streams and mountains go on forever. -Bob Carmichael

Response:

Warren F: <<BTW, I used nothing but Albolene at the Fall Ball.   In the words of George G, "It works!" Louie

Just out of curiousity, how well did it work? Better? Didn’t notice any difference?  Can you say without any bias that it works on par or better than what I use already? I am not a great proponent of floatants.  I like drying crystals and was just recently introduced to amadou, but on occasion I do use a floatant.  I have had a jar of Albolene for a couple of years and have used it off and on.  It works as well as *anything* I have tried.  Use very little of it (sound familiar?) and it does the job well. Louie

Response:

There are several products out there that work, some better than others.  I am always open to one of the "better than others."  Until I find a better, I will continue using what I am currently using.

Warren; Over the last fifteen years I have fished with many people.  When I lived in central Wisconsin some years ago there were 15 or 20 I fished with on a more or less regular basis.  Among us we tried every brand of floatant that any of us ever heard of and a great many home made concoctions as well.  Eventually everyone I knew used Albolene exclusively.  There were and are a number of others that seems to work about as well but none were found to be better and nothing except a few of the bathroom chemistry projects could touch Albolene for price. One other factor to consider:  Albolene is marketed as a skin cream, makeup remover, etc.  In our litigious society I suspect the manufacturers have taken some care to formulate a product that’s relatively safe to handle.  No telling what’s in some of the commercial floatants out there. Keep your bug on the meniscus!

Response:

Question:

[a lot of insufferably smug crap snipped]                                 Chris Simmons

Next time you get the urge to pontificate on the Usenet, head for the toilet instead. Peter Charles

Response:

If you colonials didnt have your heads in the sand half the time, and up somebody elses ass the other half,  you would know that lavender was the colour the season before last. The absolutely cool fly fisher in the coming season will be wearing pale lemon breathables, under orange wading boots, complemented with pink spats ( gravel guards for the uninitiated ! ) with bright yellow suspenders bearing the logo " If you dont C&R you are a wimp". The whole tastefully topped off with a "shortie" wading jacket in aubergine and beige  "flecktarn" with matching hat and chin strap. We are now open for flames ! Tight lines ! ( and whatever else seems appropriate under the circumstances ! ). Mike Connor

Response:

And  please  lets  not forget  How effective  gun control was in Northern Ireland. Jeesh. I contributed to this off topic thread?  lets stay with the purpose of this  NG please. There is a lot of  expertise and love of  fly fishing here. lets not dilute it with Politically Correct advodacy crap Davd

Response:

[deleted] you dye your own doncha?

..get a big assed food processor a 6 foot butterfly net and round trip airline tickets to gay ski week in Aspen…just make sure to release all the fish when you hit The Pan. Your pal, — TimW

Response:

Yeah..shooting fish!  He who owns a gun is a citizen?  Was this something I missed in the new Imigration Act? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – He who doesn’t own a gun is a victim. He who owns a gun is a citizen George Gehrke

Response:

He means "He who owns a gun is a driving license holder" (if even that). – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yeah..shooting fish!  He who owns a gun is a citizen?  Was this something I missed in the new Imigration Act? He who doesn’t own a gun is a victim. He who owns a gun is a citizen George Gehrke

Response:

He who doesn’t own a gun is a victim. He who owns a gun is a citizen George Gehrke

A gun is like a parachute, when you need one-YOU NEED ONE                                                        John Popp

Response:

He who doesn’t own a gun is a victim. He who owns a gun is a citizen George Gehrke A gun is like a parachute, when you need one-YOU NEED ONE                                                       John Popp

People who own guns are more likely to get shot than those who dont . Mike Connor

Response:

Chris, you talk like someone who still view Americans as strange type with plaid pants, 3 cameras round their necks and all talking loudly but not saying anything. You clearly have never been to the US. I am a British ex-pat and I tell you they are *exactly* like Brits, insofar as Brits are exactly like everyone else in the world. Sorry to burst your bubble on that one. In fact in many ways, living here is so much better. I don’t need to lock my door at night, I leave my car unlocked with the windows down when I go fishing on a main road and the worst that has ever happened is that I had a wet set when I returned. British gun laws and British ‘freedom with responsibility’ didn’t stop the Northern Irish from slaughtering 3000 odd people. Can’t remember the last time Americans pulled two people from a car, stripped them naked whilst women onlookers jeered and eventually put two bullets their heads. Doesn’t jump out at me. The now-famous mass killings here in the US are no different from the Hungerford slaughter in the late 80s, or that recent one in Scotland. These examples come out without having to think. You should do some national self reflection before you post. Really. As far as this newsgroup goes, don’t read the ‘50%’ of posts that don’t interest you. Notice that only a small percentage of the people in the group start and nurture these threads. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out who they are. Start the odd thread now and then, if you are so inclined. Good luck and enjoy the news group. It is one of the best forums on the net, IMHO. Gary – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins) Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                     Best regards from over the pond                             Chris Simmons

Response:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – [deleted] would someone in colorado tell me everything they have learned about where to fish and how to fish?  i am planning a week-long trip to denver, and need something to spend money on.  for instance, are neoprene waders worn by the cool guys?  if so, what brand should i get? Sure… Wear lavender so you don’t clash with the wallpaper when you get back to the hotel. Your pal, TimW

Where the hell do you order them? Should be in the orvis cat…no mention of em. not in cabella’s either. Felt sure I’d find a pair for sale on EH’s page, but no luck there. gotta be cool, doncha know. questions….. timbo, you dye your own doncha? do you use a commercial non-bleeding dye? how long do you soak/bathe em? any special curing tricks you care to share? best…. –Wataugan Walt

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms  Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins)  Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up

 Chris, These are the very reasons that I stay home and go on-line. Love from the Colonies, Ron

Response:

[deleted] would someone in colorado tell me everything they have learned about where to fish and how to fish?  i am planning a week-long trip to denver, and need something to spend money on.  for instance, are neoprene waders worn by the cool guys?  if so, what brand should i get?

Sure… Wear lavender so you don’t clash with the wallpaper when you get back to the hotel. Your pal, TimW

Response:

As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief,

        (lots of failure to communicate snipped) So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                     Best regards from over the pond                               Chris Simmons

        oh, well, i will interrupt my partying on to supply a post that might please you, chris old fellow:         thomas & thomas is better than sage.         no, sage is better.         isn’t.         is. or, perhaps this one:         would someone in colorado tell me everything they have learned about where to fish and how to fish?  i am planning a week-long trip to denver, and need something to spend money on.  for instance, are neoprene waders worn by the cool guys?  if so, what brand should i get? or this:         as you all know, the "humpbacked scarlet zizzwheel" is one of the greatest late season carp flies of all time.  should i make my final dubbing with rat fur stained with the urine of immature fox?         well, hope that satisfies your need for the kind of posts we would get if "off topic" material were banned on roff.  sure has been enough for me, for a while. a. wayne harrison

Response:

(snipped) My favorite is the "we don’t want to take guns away from law-abiding citizens, only criminals". – Gee, how are you going to do that? – By making laws.

(fun and telling stuff snipped) Later,     – Ken P.S.  It’s been illegal for criminals to own guns for a long time now, hasn’t helped yet.

        you go, kj.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms  Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins)  Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                      Best regards from over the pond                              Chris Simmons

A slight correction, assault rifles are not legal here. What you hear about are semi autos that are cosmetically simular judged by gun control advocates as assault weapons (a non entity). You may also wish to check out the crimes here as in England seems the English crime statistics are higher. Sorry for the off topic post but the corrections had to be made.                                                          John Popp                                                      in Sanford Fl.

Response:

He who doesn’t own a gun is a victim. He who owns a gun is a citizen George Gehrke

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – says… As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins) Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                     Best regards from over the pond                             Chris Simmons Chris, I take it you’re from our motherland. We all have our problems. As far as off-topic, ‘thar really ain’t no such thing. We dialogue here as we would on a stream (actually, a little more civily on the stream). Our bond being, this is our cyber stream and it’s full of flies (bait) and risers. So wade on in, the waters cold. aside from all that, we can’t fish all the time….god knows I’ve tried… –Wataugan Walt

Steelhead for you today.  The biggest did damage to my Famous Grouse drinking arm.  Just goes to show what I’ll do for a friend. Ow!  Easy  honey.  Just rub the shoulder a little longer.  ah?  could you hand me that glass right there? yes, thank youuuuuuuuuuuu – sip! ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! (this is a dirty, thankless, filthy sport but someone’s got to do it) —

Response:

As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms  Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins)  Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind                                         Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                      Best regards from over the pond                                Chris Simmons

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Simmons: <<Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins) Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! Ah, but take heart, my friend.  Doncha know that there are now more than 2000 gun laws and the liberals want more.  They believe we can legistlate morals.  More guns?  Hell, give ‘em more laws and more laws.  That’ll teach ‘em! Dave LaCourse

My favorite is the "we don’t want to take guns away from law-abiding citizens, only criminals". – Gee, how are you going to do that? – By making laws. – Silly question time, but what makes a person a criminal? – They break the law. [Stunned Silence] – So you’re gonna create laws to keep people who break laws from having guns? [More Stunned Silence] – [DUH] Ya gotta love short-sighted people. Later,      - Ken P.S.  It’s been illegal for criminals to own guns for a long time now, hasn’t helped yet.

Response:

<<Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms  Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins)  Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind                                         Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. You forgot one thing.  Freedom from English rule came from citizens having access to fire arms.

Response:

Simmons: <<Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms  Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins)  Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! Ah, but take heart, my friend.  Doncha know that there are now more than 2000 gun laws and the liberals want more.  They believe we can legistlate morals.  More guns?  Hell, give ‘em more laws and more laws.  That’ll teach ‘em! Dave LaCourse

Response:

Flyfish4fun: <<You forgot one thing.  Freedom from English rule came from citizens having access to fire arms. LOL.   Wish I had said that! Dave LaCourse

Response:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins) Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind                                         Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                     Best regards from over the pond                               Chris Simmons

Chris, I take it you’re from our motherland. We all have our problems. As far as off-topic, ‘thar really ain’t no such thing. We dialogue here as we would on a stream (actually, a little more civily on the stream). Our bond being, this is our cyber stream and it’s full of flies (bait) and risers. So wade on in, the waters cold. aside from all that, we can’t fish all the time….god knows I’ve tried… –Wataugan Walt

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -As a Internet user, Ex Service man and fly fisher I have over the last year or so taken a keen interest in your News group.I find it Very Interesting to see how our American friends do things. With some 50% of your postings being off subject on such items as your politicians conduct, Slagging off other users and even Gun Control issues or lack of them .I must admit to find some of your postings  sad but amusing. How some of you find time, with some of the best flyfishing in the world to engage in this off message rubbish beggars belief, mind you With your political scandal (our politicians are the same) aren’t they all !. Over 100 of your Civilians die a week from gunshot wounds 1,600 of your children killed per year by firearms Every 90 minutes one of your motorist try to beat a train on a level crossing (It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess who wins) Ability to purchase an assault rifle for protecting your homes, or blow an hole in the next six homes in case of an accidental discharge! An old proverb comes to mind                                         Freedom with responsibility is hard earned. Freedom with out responsibility is anarchy. So to all the sad cases, party on. To the real flyfishers on line keep up the good postings and Tight lines                     Best regards from over the pond                               Chris Simmons

  Harry

Response:

Walt,     I don’t think this kid fly-fishes.  He looks like a wire line troller. Wayne To fish is human…to release devine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – aside from all that, we can’t fish all the time….god knows I’ve tried… –Wataugan Walt

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Question:

says… Hi, I’m planning a trip to the Banff/Lake Louise area in early Sept. Any info re: hotels, guides, expected conditions and how to escape the tourists would be appreciated. Thanks in advance JT

The Bow around Banff will be clear and low – blue winged olives will be the fly to try for rainbows or browns,  or cutthroats in the upper reaches. Rocky mountain whitefish are common, and the odd bull trout (Alberta’s provincial fish) is an interesting possibility.  Lake trout will be on deep trolling only that time of year – but can be a blast with a fly rod and a streamer on a downrigger (makes the purists scream too!) Brookies mainly in the beaverponds and oxbows of the Bow River. Hotels will still be charging high season rates – about double what they are at the end of the month. There is an excellent hostel in Banff, and another one in Lake Louise – you may want to check with your local International Hostel Association for membership/rates. You are (will be) a tourist. But there’s tons of backcountry to ‘escape’ to and a good guide will help.   Try Upper Bow Valley Fly Fishing in Banff- Dan Bell at (403) 760-7668 fax 762-8263 – he a super drift boat guide, has excxellent knowledge of area lakes, or can even arrange for a helicopter trip if you’ve got the budget. My close second choice would be the Green Drake Fly Shop in Canmore (403) 678-9525 fax (403) 678-2183  They do a lot of guiding, and have an excellent little shop that while difficult to find – is worth your while. Free and friendly and specific advise to c&r fishers. Tight lines & short strings Andrew Whittick   Banff Alberta

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Hi, I’m planning a trip to the Banff/Lake Louise area in early Sept. Any info re: hotels, guides, expected conditions and how to escape the tourists would be appreciated. Thanks in advance JT

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says… Hi, I’m planning a trip to the Banff/Lake Louise area in early Sept. Any info re: hotels, guides, expected conditions and how to escape the tourists would be appreciated. Thanks in advance JT

ps – almost forgot when fishing in Canada’s Mountain National Parks – you may not use lead weighted flys or lead weights less than 50 grams. No such restrictions outside of the parks though.  Floating the Bow River from Banff to Canmore will require a National Parl fishing license, and an Alberta license. Both are quite inexepensive (under $20 CDN) Andrew Whittick   Banff Alberta

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Are you talking about the Deleware river?

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Does anyone know what is the best hatch to use this time of year? I’m new to Fly Fishing and would appreciate some free advice. Thankyou — James A. Neild

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Check out the interactive hatch chart for the Delaware system and the Catskills at www.mayfly.com. Does anyone know what is the best hatch to use this time of year? I’m new to Fly Fishing and would appreciate some free advice. Thankyou — James A. Neild

– — Steven Schwartz www.loosecannon.com www.panix.com/~smsinc Give credit to those who want it.

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Geez, Folks, this topic has used too many ergs and is getting mighty boring. It has digressed from flyfishing and descended into the pit of insult, confrontational commentary, and foolishness. Once the useful comments and opinions have been "voiced," you can let the thread die …. please.  I’ve tried to block the subject, but I guess I’ll have to create a broader "twit filter" and block authors. Is this a flyfishing newsgroup or not?  

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Geez, Folks, this topic has used too many ergs and is getting mighty boring. It has digressed from flyfishing and descended

Look at the subject list today man…you want BORING ? "For Sale, ex-Wifes wader suspenders", "should i fish upstream or down", "how many split shots blah blah..", "removing the smell from the glove compartment of my 1964 rambler", etc. etc. etc. ad nauseum. Just like the magazines these days…SOS regurgitated…only a forum for ads, newbies and places for the rich to go on vacation. I’ve cancelled all of my subscriptions.   Now, look at the net man.  Instant ‘letters and feedback to the editors’…discussions, arguments, points of view…way cool… and PETA ? Christ almighty man, NOTHING is more relevant to the sport than a group of people who would piss out the flyfishing flame with their manhatten breed of fish coddling piss. And the beauty of it all is…*YOU* can decide to read it or not. This morning, personally, I read the lone PETA article and marked the rest as read… You say… Is this a flyfishing newsgroup or not?  

and I say, it most certainly is…and it’s perfect. Tim Walker

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Geez, Folks, this topic has used too many ergs and is getting mighty boring. It has digressed from flyfishing and descended Look at the subject list today man…you want BORING ? Now, look at the net man.  Instant ‘letters and feedback to the editors’…discussions, arguments, points of view…way cool… and PETA ? Christ almighty man, NOTHING is more relevant to the sport than a group of people who would piss out the flyfishing flame with their manhatten breed of fish coddling piss. And the beauty of it all is…*YOU* can decide to read it or not. This morning, personally, I read the lone PETA article and marked the rest as read… You say… Is this a flyfishing newsgroup or not?   and I say, it most certainly is…and it’s perfect. Tim Walker

Tim, I have no disagreement with you that PETA is an important topic. And, I was following it daily.  My coment was that the interaction had gotten away from the topic and dipped into unrelated confrontational commentary. If the respondents maintain the topic – that’s great…. When it turns to idiocy – that’s worthless ….

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I have to take an enforced trip to Madeira in January.  It’s been described to me as a holiday. Is it worth taking a rod? — Steve

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:I have to take an enforced trip to Madeira in January.  It’s been : described to  me as a holiday. : Is it worth taking a rod? : — : Steve No, Steve, this is terrible news. Drag your tired body down there. Never mind the gorgeous weather – you’ll survive. And the fishing – oh dear – but it’s not worth your time. It’s ALWAYS worth taking a rod. D.F.

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I’m only a few days from heading up to Yellowstone and southern Montana type of flys might work best?  I suppose that some elk hair caddis might be good.    thanks,            drex

I could help more if you had mentioned which areas of which rivers you plan to fish?  However, this time of year I never go to the Yellowstone area without flys for these hatches:         1. Baetis (Small blue wing olives):             – nymph ( size 18 Pheasant tails)         – emerger (size 18 & 20 RS2’s) usually fished as a nymph            before the hatch.         – Renee Harrop no hackles (in sizes 18 & 20)         – Adams (without wing)         2. Trico’s (females black size 20 to 22, Males olive size 20):         – Spinner ( blue dun wings) split tail and I add a  third             parachute wing so I can see the bloody things.  White             parachute wing for days).  When the fish are on trico             spinners don’t even bother fishing anything else.         –  Dun: dun hackles body colors above don’t bother with a              wing unless you need it to see it.  I clip the hackles to get             a lower float and I usually carry parachute versions.  I              don’t find the duns to be as inportant as the spinners.             Note the same flys work for baetis duns and Trico males,              i.e. olive no hackles and size twenty adams w/o wings.         – Dun

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I’m only a few days from heading up to Yellowstone and southern Montana for a glorious week of fly fishing.  A few months ago, when I was planning this trip, I sent out requests for places to fish up there.  If there are any others that would like to share their knowledge of the area, I would certainly appreciate it.  My current plans are pretty loose, but we intend to fly into Jackson Hole(the one fly competition is going on there), and then drive up to Yellowstone.  Then we’ll make a big loop that will include West Yellowstone, up to Bozeman, across to Livingston, and then back down into Yellowstone.  Does anyone have advice on fishing this time of year and what type of flys might work best?  I suppose that some elk hair caddis might be good.         thanks,                 drex

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