Question:

Hello everyone! I’ve really enjoyed a couple of fish documentaries I’ve seen on TV lately. I thought I’d prepare for the cabin fever by getting a couple of such documentaries (or just general fishing stories) on DVD, if I could find some good ones. Anyone seen any good river/fish documentaries or fishing programs on DVD? — Jarmo Hurri address or apply rot13 to header email address.

Response:

Hello everyone! I’ve really enjoyed a couple of fish documentaries I’ve seen on TV lately. I thought I’d prepare for the cabin fever by getting a couple of such documentaries (or just general fishing stories) on DVD, if I could find some good ones. Anyone seen any good river/fish documentaries or fishing programs on DVD?

Fly Fishing Yellowstone Hatches, w/ Craig Mathews

Response:

Anyone seen any good river/fish documentaries or fishing programs on DVD?

Jeff Fly Fishing Yellowstone Hatches, w/ Craig Mathews Looks pretty interesting, thanks. — Jarmo Hurri address or apply rot13 to header email address.

Response:

Question:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. Willi

        what an infatile post!  don’t you people give a shit about fishing?  what knot do you use when you tie a fly to the end of your little bitty line that is tied to your great big line that goes on your reel that is screwed on to your pole?         and, most importantly, why do you hate america?         tomatoes are red.  red is the color of communism.  you are a communist because you like tomatoes. anthony wayne harrison the third. Aren’t tomatoes really orange and not red? Just like blueberries are really purple. There is no blue food. Perhaps the communists are keeping all the blue food from us.

Response:

There is no blue food.

        yeah, well that’s what *you* think—i don’t guess you’ve ever eaten a smurf, then!  Perhaps the communists are keeping all the blue food from us.

        i wouldn’t doubt it..  smurfs are damn good, served n’awleens style.  richard has the recipe. wayno

Response:

There is no blue food.    yeah, well that’s what *you* think—i don’t guess you’ve ever eaten a smurf, then! Perhaps the communists are keeping all the blue food from us.    i wouldn’t doubt it..  smurfs are damn good, served n’awleens style.  richard has the recipe.

Sure do…first, you get some carpet tacks and caulk…. HTH, really I do… R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -wayno

Response:

yeah, well that’s what *you* think—i don’t guess you’ve ever eaten a smurf, then! wayno

Really kinky. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

yeah, well that’s what *you* think—i don’t guess you’ve ever eaten a smurf, then! wayno Really kinky.

You don’t know the half of it, Frank. Papa Smurf likes to watch. Tim

Response:

yeah, well that’s what *you* think—i don’t guess you’ve ever eaten a smurf, then! wayno Really kinky.

You don’t know the half of it, Frank. Papa Smurf likes to watch. Tim Did he get any color glossy photos with circles and arrows?

Response:

if it’s the genetically-engineered t’maters, yeah…i invested in that venture and the stock promptly went belly-up…died on the vine, so to speak.  gov’t regs and consumer skepticism slowed it down… jeff (natural born stock killer)

Damned semantics again!  We been eatin genetically engineered maties and taties for a long long time……been feedin ‘em to our genetically engineered wolves too, for that matter. Wolfgang ubermensch sans portfolio

Response:

There is no blue food. yeah, well that’s what *you* think—i don’t guess you’ve ever eaten a smurf, then!

Uhh…   eeewww.    Though this probably falls under the category of "more than you wanted to know", for the edification of the group, I’ll impart this tidbit of disgusting knowledge.   Most rv’s have some sort of solid waste disposal system on board, be it a built in toilet or porta potti.   These are typically deoderized and sanitized by the use of a concentrated blue liquid in the holding tank.   The contents of said tanks then, due to the strong color influence of this chemical, are colloquially referred to as "smurf juice". HTH, Joe F.

Response:

what an infatile post!  don’t you people give a shit about fishing?  what knot do you use when you tie a fly to the end of your little bitty line that is tied to your great big line that goes on your reel that is screwed on to your pole? and, most importantly, why do you hate america? tomatoes are red.  red is the color of communism.  you are a communist because you like tomatoes. anthony wayne harrison the third.

I’ll do my best to get you a quart of that corn likker, as soon a possible good buddy! Op

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. You’re probably thinking of the genetically engineered FLAVR SAVR tomatoes: http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/biotech.html That’s the one.

Umm, don’t these fall under the heading of ‘bioengineered foods’ that people want to pass laws to protect themselves from, are boycotting McDonalds in far eastern countries over, and Mugabe just tossed 50,000 tons of relief food out of Zimbabwe because it wasn’t specified to not contain? riverman

Response:

if it’s the genetically-engineered t’maters, yeah…i invested in that venture and the stock promptly went belly-up…died on the vine, so to speak.  gov’t regs and consumer skepticism slowed it down…

That explains why I haven’t seem them. Willi

Response:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. You’re probably thinking of the genetically engineered FLAVR SAVR tomatoes: http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/biotech.html

That’s the one. Willi

Response:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. Willi

        what an infatile post!  don’t you people give a shit about fishing?  what knot do you use when you tie a fly to the end of your little bitty line that is tied to your great big line that goes on your reel that is screwed on to your pole?         and, most importantly, why do you hate america?         tomatoes are red.  red is the color of communism.  you are a communist because you like tomatoes. anthony wayne harrison the third.

Response:

if it’s the genetically-engineered t’maters, yeah…i invested in that venture and the stock promptly went belly-up…died on the vine, so to speak.  gov’t regs and consumer skepticism slowed it down… jeff (natural born stock killer) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. Willi

Response:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. Willi

Perhaps these taste sharper? http://www.artsnflies.com/pages/clousers23.shtml TL MC

Response:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this.

You’re probably thinking of the genetically engineered FLAVR SAVR tomatoes: http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~lrd/biotech.html — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. Willi

Response:

Last night I ate some typical, hard tasteless tomatoes I had gotten from a roundside stand, in hopes that they would be good. I had read, some time ago, about a strain of tomatoes that were developed that would be ripe, juicy and tasty while still being firm enough to ship. Anyone heard anything about what happened with this. Willi

Not too sure if it’s the same thing, but I’ve been getting "vine ripened" tomatoes still on the vine. They say that they are "organically grown", but they do taste good, and arrive at the store in a less than ripe condition.

Response:

Question:

George Gehrke: shithead. …seems a bit ungentlemanly…

Get it straight, George. I’m the fucking putz. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

…i hope to have a good granite chisel soon… i think it might be useful with some of my "signature" fly ties as well. jeff (chiseling out more mutants for the masses)

Somehow it seemed so difficult, all attempts just fizzled, this was mainly due it seems, to the fact that they were chiselled, he swore, he cursed, he begged and cried, at last he exclaimed "Dammnit!", how can you get proportions right, in such little bits of granite?". He sweated, learned, and tried again, until he knew some tricks, but no matter what he tried to do, his dry-flies sank like bricks, he tied flies for trout, and bass and pike, and even some for bream, and though he did his level best, results remained a dream.. Years went by, and then at last, enlightenment slowly dawned, frustrating hours and days of work, a new idea then spawned, he tied a whole new series up, and then he went a swapping, all now agreed his perfect flies, were beautiful, simply topping. Time came then at last for him, to pass on the gentle art, this time comes at last you see, to every poor old fart, his pupils marvelled at his skill, his flies even caught bones, how he managed this you ask?  He stuck to chiselling stones! TL MC

Response:

George Gehrke: shithead.

…seems a bit ungentlemanly… jeff

Response:

George Gehrke: shithead. …seems a bit ungentlemanly…

Yeah, but it would make a good epitaph for him just as written. <g — Charlie…

Response:

…i hope to have a good granite chisel soon… i think it might be useful with some of my "signature" fly ties as well. jeff (chiseling out more mutants for the masses) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – George Gehrke: shithead. …seems a bit ungentlemanly… Yeah, but it would make a good epitaph for him just as written. <g — Charlie…

Response:

I happen to think of another answer to your concerns David.  You’re just going to have to take me the way I am.  Someday, you’re going to miss me baby and all this originality and talent!  You’ll be laughing all the way to the river of no return. George Roff & Company "the gang’s all here!" (why fix something when it isn’t broke?) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – George, I say this with true concern – no hate or disgust:  Get some professional help, not with your writing, but with your head. Dave

Response:

David,  trust me.  There is nothing wrong with my head, just too much on my plate.  I have enough E-mail proving how incorrect  your concern is, but I know you to be sincere. Stay loose and don’t sweat the details David.  Roff has too many editors and not enough good writers.  Can you help by contributing something? George – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – George, I say this with true concern – no hate or disgust:  Get some professional help, not with your writing, but with your head. Dave

Response:

George, I say this with true concern – no hate or disgust:  Get some professional help, not with your writing, but with your head. Dave

Response:

Mike, I’ll keep this short and sweet.  You are a serious waste of my valuable time. No one in ROFF needs your kind of  criticisms.  You can’t take criticism yourself and you don’t know how to give advice in a constructive manner.   It must be your ethnic nature and educational back ground?  Therefore: there are no other reasons for me to have a civil conversation with you now or in the near future. By the way, I write just as well as you or anyone else,  given the time.  These seems to elude you entirely because there are many sportsmen (world wide) who disagree with your views and what you stand for.  You’re a competent fly tier. Why don’t you stick with what you do best?  (because you are politically inept, you lack social abilities and graces, besides being a total failure in "people skills")  Take night courses in these subjects then give it another go in  four years.  I cannot offer you better advice Mike. Take care.  End of conversation. George Gehrke "who isn’t interested in those who make personal attacks in public places"

Response:

Nobody gets paid for anything on ROFF. You are not Hemingway, and a number of people would be more than happy if you kept your gratuitous, barely comprehensible, and over-long ramblings, to yourself. Bullshit is bullshit, free or not.  In this case it is not free, it costs money to send tens of kilobytes of rubbish through the ether, some more some less, but it costs everybody money. I can accept that some things must be very bitter for you, this shines through in every post you make, like dim streetlamps glinting reluctantly from the oily whorls on  pools of sewage,  but that

Question:

If a person were to find themselves in Puerto Vallarta for a week, how, and where would one go about arranging to fly fish?  What equipment would you be able (or should) take with you?  What does a charter cost?  etc. Thanks, Steve

Response:

I’d take a 10 or 9 wt.  Prefer at 10.  Take a sinking line and a floater and a basket.  Take flies surf fishermen use in california and big poppers.  You may not be able to find an experienced fly guide but you can catch fish. Possibilities should include Roosters, and Dorado,  Robalo (Snook),  Corvina (like a Red but in the surf and tricker.)  You may have to guide the guide but you should be able to find a Panga and a guia who can find fish.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If a person were to find themselves in Puerto Vallarta for a week, how, and where would one go about arranging to fly fish?  What equipment would you be able (or should) take with you?  What does a charter cost?  etc. Thanks, Steve

Response:

MR  Neeley  There are a number of charter boats at PV . You  will truely be in a fishing paradise . PLEASE take advantage of every moment .,  I have seen little kids go out on dugout like  canoes and catch 20 pound dolphin , on hand lines . The other pratice it for the locals to go out in their long boats with nets streches inbetween the boats . they can   vacumm a bay in a matter of hours . the bottom there is rocky , with the shore line with small pebbles . and some sand thrown in too . In addition to a fly rod i would bring a nice  light tackle spin outfit …and a good  a medium action bait reel.. i use the penn 965 . For Fly fishing i would  go to a  a surfing hot spot north of town called Punta de Mita .  there is a little bay right at the point . .  Wade out like 100 yards , on the rocky  bottom , and climb on top on one of the many bolders in the surf . In the incoming tide you can cast 360 degrees above and out of the water . It is unlimited what you can catch there in about 4 feet of water , but it includes , rock bass , little tuna , dolphin , and tarpon . I have seen sharks there also . The wave will come in and the water will be 6 feet deep , and as it passes  the water level will drop 2 feet. I have had the most luck in a incoming tide . In fact it is like a light switch .  Plug fishing is really great too .I like the small two gang  hook mirrorlures . The bottom is rocky , you have to have a very tough leader . Also , it is a long walk out , be sure to talk everything you need , cause it takes a while to walk back inshore .  Also just north of town , where  the ferry docks are , there is a great jetty , which is good for typical jetty fishig .   The boats there are , or have been quite old , all wood , look like they were made in the 30’s . BUT  this is slowly getting better. But their fishing gear on the boat is all very heavy duty . They are great guys , and will fish the way you want if you want to tease a fish and cast a fly at it . The marlin are only a few miles off shore .  This is a paradise , research it , and make the most out of your trip . Hale Savannah

Response:

Question:

And don’t be ashamed to dunk a worm for catfish.

I was a fairly successful bass fishermen in my youth, but once I returned in my adult years I have not done well, even with the same tackle and same locations, well, I can understand that. I figured if I wasn’t going to catch fish, I might as well do it with style (flyfishing).  I know this sounds sarcastic, but there’s truth in it. I *do* need to get a better start this time, and would like guidance and lessons, in my area, which is San Jose – the Santa Cruz moutain area not far from me…. I remember as a kid with my dad fishing for and watching steelhead in the San Lorenzo river in Boulder creek, in the tropical parts of the mountains. They would circle in and out of the dark pools.  This was before the great drought in the 80’s which did in much of the salmon and trout in that area. My desire to fish has much to do with where I fish as it does just catching fish.   Hope this makes sense.  And I would love to fish for blue gill if I knew somewhere good. Greg

Response:

RP138 wrote … … It sounds like you should go out with a guide  - several times to learn what works.  This way you will catch fish and remain interested in a really great sport.  A few $ spent on lessons always makes a real difference.    Bob.

If you intend to fly fish, starting with a guide is the best advice I know of.  This can be expensive (250-300 $ a day) but a good guide is worth it. There is a fly fishing school in Northern California called Clearwater House (they have a web site).  This is where I got jump started into fly fishing and I highly recommend it (or others like it, if you can find them). Another key factor in fishing, any type of fishing, is having a fishing buddy.  Even though you’ll see solitary fishers, you will find that the social aspect of fishing is an important factor for most fishers.  This NG is proof of that.  A good place to meet potential fishing partners is at a fishing club.  Most localities have fishing clubs for every type of fishing; bass clubs, fly fishing clubs, deep sea clubs…you name it and generally they welcome newcomers.  There’s a few curmudgeonly types on ROFF who will poo-poo this advice because it’s not for them.  Just ignore them. Find some other’s who enjoy what you want to try and join them.  That’s the surest way to start yourself off on a pastime that will reward you for a life time.

Response:

Another key factor in fishing, any type of fishing, is having a fishing buddy.  Even though you’ll see solitary fishers, you will find that the social aspect of fishing is an important factor for most fishers.

So right.  Makes all the difference.  But it’s not like golf – can’t explain it, but that’s the case .There’s a few curmudgeonly types on ROFF who will poo-poo this advice because it’s not for them.  Just ignore them.

That’s true too. But I’ll bet those cumudgeonly types started fishing with somebody, and graduated to the solitary fisherman.  I enjoy fishing alone, but there’s nothing better than the cold beer with your fishing buddy at the end of the day. Mark Faulkner

Response:

(snipped) << There’s a few curmudgeonly types on ROFF who will poo-poo this advice because it’s not for them.  Just ignore them. Find some other’s who enjoy what you want to try and join them.  That’s the surest way to start yourself off on a pastime that will reward you for a life time. I beg your pardon, David.  I am a curmedgeon and I think you have given the best advice possible!  Nothing learns a man quicker than catchin’ a fish, and many times, a guide is the only way.  I applaud your advice, sir.  The advice about finding a fishing partner is especially good — I am willing and able if you live in Mass. Dave "the biggest curmedgeon around" LaCourse

Response:

<<That’s true too. But I’ll bet those cumudgeonly types started fishing with somebody, and graduated to the solitary fisherman.  I enjoy fishing alone, but there’s nothing better than the cold beer with your fishing buddy at the end of the day. This is true.  I will steal two Sleeman’s from Peter Charles and share with you at the ‘clave.  But *only* if I catch more fish than you! Dave LaCourse

Response:

Dave "the biggest curmedgeon around" LaCourse

Using George’s spell checker again Dave<g? (Maybe a curmudgeon contest at the clave?) — Charlie…

Response:

Dave "the biggest curmedgeon around" LaCourse

Using George’s spell checker again Dave<g? (Maybe a curmudgeon contest at the clave?) — LOL.  Ya got me, Charlie.  And you are on….. Dave

Response:

Dave "the biggest curmedgeon around" LaCourse Using George’s spell checker again Dave<g? (Maybe a curmudgeon contest at the clave?) — LOL.  Ya got me, Charlie.  And you are on…..

Rocking chairs at 2 paces it is<g! — Charlie…

Response:

Every 4 to 5 years I get interested in fishing, again…. Usually I go out, fish like mad for a few months, and then after not catching a damn thing, give it up for the next 4 to 5 years. I tried flyfishing last go-around, but didn’t get far. Can anyone recommend a good rod/reel/line/leader/fly set-up for fishing the streams around Boulder creek, CA, or even Guadalupe river in San Jose (yes, I’ve heard there’s fish). Any help would be appreciated, I definately would like to keep it as simple as possible. Greg

Response:

A nice 81/2′ to 9′ 4wt with a cheap reel and a good floating weight forward line should do the trick.  It sounds like you should go out with a guide  - several times to learn what works.  This way you will catch fish and remain interested in a really great sport.  A few $ spent on lessons always makes a real difference.    Bob.

Response:

<<A nice 81/2′ to 9′ 4wt with a cheap reel and a good floating weight forward line should do the trick.  It sounds like you should go out with a guide  - several times to learn what works.  This way you will catch fish and remain interested in a really great sport.  A few $ spent on lessons always makes a real difference.    Bob. Hi, Bob. You know, I have seen lots of advice given on these pages to newbies, but your’s (above) makes a helluva lot of sense, especially the "guide" part.  There is nothing more convincing to a newbie than catching fish, and if they know little about the art, the best way is with a guide.   Dave LaCourse

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : Every 4 to 5 years I get interested in fishing, again…. : : Usually I go out, fish like mad for a few months, and then : after not catching a damn thing, give it up for the next 4 to 5 : years. Greg, This may sound snide or something…but I mean it in all honesty. Unless you change your approach, your mentality towards it, you will not be a fisherman. You will give up each time. Fishing cannot be aquired in a few months. It is not a recreation you will conquer in a short time by throwing yourself at it. Sure, you can learn some basic skills, like flycasting, by hours of backyard practice. But where to cast? What to cast? When to cast?  All these questions will only begin to be answered by spending time, much time, on the water. By watching, waiting, and making many, many mistakes. It is a lifetime of learning, of which we all just scratch the surface. It is about figuring out how the natural world is working on that day, in that hour, that you are there, so that you can mimic it, or agitate it, or attract it, in such a way as to make a fish strike. If you perservere, the rewards are great. And, you can make it easier at the start by going after fish that are generally easy to catch, like panfish. Your local shop can tell you what and where you might find easier fishing. And don’t be ashamed to dunk a worm for catfish. JonCook.

What Jon said nails it also. I went fishing at Jordanelle Res. yesterday, float tubed while the ole lady tried her kickboat. 4 hours in the water-didn’t catch a damn thing froze my ass and feet off. Didn’t even get a hit. Same with my wife. But it didn’t matter. We were out there, having fun(?) It’s a state of mind. I fish because it’s relaxing, catching them is an added bonus. Plus it keeps me out of trouble. Plus it’s good distance casting practice. We did help some  first time, "We just got the boat and the salesman said it was all ready to go" boaters. No one bothered to tell them what the little hole below the outdrive was for and why there was no plug in it. After he saw he was taking on water, he decided to ask for some timely advice. The engine wouldn’t stay running, but his bilge pump worked great. My wife had her chest waders still on and walked out to help them get a little closer to shore where we could load it on the trailer. (there was no dock because this is a PWC launch ramp). Got the boat loaded, couldn’t find any plug, and told him it would be a good idea to also unplug his lights from the trailer before launching. Didn’t catch a fish  yesterday, but still had a hellava good time. done that

Response:

Question:

I just noticed in his new book, "A Pirate Looks At Fifty," that Jimmy Buffett seems to be an avid flyfisherman. Anyone know any good stories about Jimmy and flyfishing? Is he strictly a saltwater fisherman? Or does he ever go after trout? (The mountains don’t seem to be his style!) Better yet…has anyone ever tried to go fishing with him? (We flyfishermen might be able to get a little closer to him than the ordinary Parrothead! <grin) Scott Wilkinson Quasi-Parrothead

Response:

Jimmy Buffett used to live in Aspen and may still have a place there.  I think he moved there after his time in Key West.  He wanted to be around guys who liked girls. DP – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just noticed in his new book, "A Pirate Looks At Fifty," that Jimmy Buffett seems to be an avid flyfisherman. Anyone know any good stories about Jimmy and flyfishing? Is he strictly a saltwater fisherman? Or does he ever go after trout? (The mountains don’t seem to be his style!) Better yet…has anyone ever tried to go fishing with him? (We flyfishermen might be able to get a little closer to him than the ordinary Parrothead! <grin) Scott Wilkinson Quasi-Parrothead

Response:

: Jimmy Buffett used to live in Aspen and may still have a place there.  I : think he moved there after his time in Key West.  He wanted to be around : guys who liked girls. Thanks for keeping us posted. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

Scott, Only stories I know of Jimmy are shrimping, jubilees, mullet in Mobile bay, and drinks at Judge Roy Bean’s. -Adam

Response:

I just noticed in his new book, "A Pirate Looks At Fifty," that Jimmy Buffett seems to be an avid flyfisherman. Anyone know any good stories about Jimmy and flyfishing? Is he strictly a saltwater fisherman? Or does he ever go after trout? (The mountains don’t seem to be his style!) Better yet…has anyone ever tried to go fishing with him? (We flyfishermen might be able to get a little closer to him than the ordinary Parrothead! <grin) Scott Wilkinson Quasi-Parrothead

Hi Scott, I was fishing in the Keys about 10 years ago fishing with a friend, Steve Chapell, who lives on Marathon Key. One evening he showed me a poor video copy of a movie that was made by a group of Key West fly fishers? He said a prince from Spain?, Guy Valdeen(sp) was partly responsible for the short film. Jimmy did the sound tack for the movie. It showed fly fishers casting to tarpon with beautiful music and then would it would switch to wild music with a party boat. The deck was covered with blood from killing fish. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY www.kiene.com

Response:

Jimmy used to hang around with Harrison, McGuane, Fonda and that bunch in the keys and in Livingston, Mt.  I’m sure he has been exposed to both fresh and saltwater flyfishing.  He also reportedly has the quail bug. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just noticed in his new book, "A Pirate Looks At Fifty," that Jimmy Buffett seems to be an avid flyfisherman. Anyone know any good stories about Jimmy and flyfishing? Is he strictly a saltwater fisherman? Or does he ever go after trout? (The mountains don’t seem to be his style!) Better yet…has anyone ever tried to go fishing with him? (We flyfishermen might be able to get a little closer to him than the ordinary Parrothead! <grin) Scott Wilkinson Quasi-Parrothead

Response:

I just noticed in his new book, "A Pirate Looks At Fifty," that Jimmy Buffett seems to be an avid flyfisherman. Anyone know any good stories about Jimmy and flyfishing? Is he strictly a saltwater fisherman? Or does he ever go after trout? (The mountains don’t seem to be his style!) Better yet…has anyone ever tried to go fishing with him? (We flyfishermen might be able to get a little closer to him than the ordinary Parrothead! <grin)

Not sure about Jimmy Buffet and Flyfishing but I’ve also heard that Marilyn Manson is an avid angler.  Anyone know whether Marilyn is into flyfishing? Anyone care to post any amusing anecdotes concerning Marilyn and fish? Thanks.

Response:

Never heard of Marilyn Mason – where does she live?

Response:

Not sure about Jimmy Buffet and Flyfishing but I’ve also heard that Marilyn Manson is an avid angler.  Anyone know whether Marilyn is into flyfishing? Anyone care to post any amusing anecdotes concerning Marilyn and fish?

What, he bites the heads off the trout? -Marcus

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Never heard of Marilyn Mason – where does she live?

*HE* is a shock rocker.  Very wierd looking, angry music, etc etc.  The teenagers adore him. check out http://www.marilyn-manson.net/  for scary pictures and stuff.

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Never heard of Marilyn Mason – where does she live?

He dwells in your worst nightmares….

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My worst nightmare is about many raising fish and the wrong fly!!

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If I need to see something scary, I check out my mirror (especially in the early AM.)

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*HE* is a shock rocker.  Very wierd looking, angry music, etc etc.  The teenagers adore him. check out http://www.marilyn-manson.net/  for scary pictures and stuff.

I’ve heard this freak was a nerdy kid on some TV show that was modestly popular 6 or 7 years ago.  As for checking out a site about this geek…think I’d rather step on a nail. Patrick

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I heard that Jimmy has a place out in the hamptons in LI, NY and owns a 20′ Hewes flats boat!! He flyfishes for stripers and everything! Capt. Paul

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I’ve seen a picture of Buffett standing on a partially sunken (and rusted out ship) with what appears to be a fly rod with yellow fly line in his hand. I think this picture is on the box set…….

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In his book, "In Search of Joe Merchant" he talks about flyfishing for bonefish.  Believe that he did also inthe book "Margaritaville". Herb

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I heard that Jimmy has a place out in the hamptons in LI, NY and owns a 20′ Hewes flats boat!! He flyfishes for stripers and everything! Capt. Paul

In his book that just came out, "A Pirate Looks at Fifty", he talks about flyfishing a lot.  The guy’s a fanatic!!  He even went flyfishing in Costa Rica (for blue marlin!).

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Question:

As I was planning yet another stitched gife for my MIL, I realized I had never made anything for my FIL. Granted, DH didn’t have much to do with him for the first several years of our marriage (MIL & FIL had been divorced in the 70s) but everything is friendly now & MIL & FIL are married again (yes, to each other).  DH suggested stitching something on a fishing hat.  Has anyone tried this?  If so, what did you stitch?  He loves cat fish & is a lake/boat fisherman (as opposed to a stream/fly fisherman). Any ideas??? Liz

Checked my index for sports-fishing and found      Omnibook of Quickies-has a catfish, and other fishy things,             including hat!      Cross Stitcher Mag, June 96 and Aug 96- fishing motifs Also, I have seen hats & visors with a cross-stitch insert at Michael’s and elsewhere. Good luck! Kathy Hoover

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DH suggested stitching something on a fishing hat.  Has anyone tried this?  If so, what did you stitch?  He loves cat fish & is a lake/boat fisherman (as opposed to a stream/fly fisherman). Any ideas??? Liz well….i saw a t-shirt that said "women want me…fish fear me…" lol cari

Cute idea.:-))  The mental picture I get when I connect it with my FIL is funnier than the original T shirt could ever be. ))))) Liz

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As I was planning yet another stitched gife for my MIL, I realized I had never made anything for my FIL. Granted, DH didn’t have much to do with him for the first several years of our marriage (MIL & FIL had been divorced in the 70s) but everything is friendly now & MIL & FIL are married again (yes, to each other).  DH suggested stitching something on a fishing hat.  Has anyone tried this?  If so, what did you stitch?  He loves cat fish & is a lake/boat fisherman (as opposed to a stream/fly fisherman). Any ideas??? Liz

They make ballcaps with an aida panel already in it.  I’ve never tried stitching on a  hat myself so I don’t know how hard it would be. There are lots of fish patterns in magazines and catalogs, but most I’ve seen are a typical trout jumping, or lures or something.  I do remember one in a mag several years back with different lake fish in it.  I have no idea which mag or issue but I’ll look through mine and see if I can find it.  You could also design something yourself, along th lines of "world’s greatest fisherman" etc. Karen

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Question:

I’m planning to be on the big Island of Hawaii next week and would like to hook up with a charter captain who is fly fishing friendly.   Taking a 12 weight and a ten with hopes of catching mahi mahi, maybe ahi or striped Marlin.   Any advice about guides there would be appreciated.   I’d rather fish out of an open fisherman than a big sports fisherman. Thanks for your help David Sheffield Los Angeles

Not many people fly fish in Hawaii.  We have a local TV fishing program, "Fishing Tales", hosted by Mike Sakamoto who does fly fish, but I don’t know how to contact him.   You might try this location as a start to get some information:   http://www.biggame.com/ibgfh/index.html — Sincerely, Fred E. Nakaguma Aiea, Hawaii

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I’m planning to be on the big Island of Hawaii next week and would like to hook up with a charter captain who is fly fishing friendly.   Taking a 12 weight and a ten with hopes of catching mahi mahi, maybe ahi or striped Marlin.   Any advice about guides there would be appreciated.   I’d rather fish out of an open fisherman than a big sports fisherman. Thanks for your help David Sheffield Los Angeles

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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"

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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!!!

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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!!!

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- 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:

Apart from all the other advantages, hand tied leaders offer two distinct advantages for me.         1. I seem to present the fly better with a hand tied leader         2. One of cost, they are distinctly cheaper.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize The Lefty Kreh/Mark Sosin book Practical Fishing Knots II gives a good methodology for constructing saltwater leaders. I use all Mason hard mono for my saltwater leaders, which I tie in the methods suggested in Kreh/Sosin. (i.e. Surgeon’s loops, bimini twists, huffnagle knots, etc.) 2. Can you surfcasters get anecdotal about your line selection (i.e. what is better in waves… a 30′ shooting head attached to mono? or a 30′ head attached to some floating line? 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket. thanks for the know-how Check out the Teeny running lines. They’re made of limp, braided material which doesn’t curl up and will shoot through the guides easily in case it gets tangled. They’re neutrally-bouyant rather than high-floating like floating fly lines. I like them better than the level fly line-type running lines, but they’re a bit pricey. (Cope & McPheter’s carries them in the Bay area…) Regards, Fred

One word of caution about both braided shooting line and level flyline for use in the surf. These lines can pick up particles of sand and abrade both your guides and your fly rod.  It depends upon the nature of the beach, but under the right conditions you can ruin a fly rod in one outing. However under some circumstances these shooting lines can work great. Ian Walker

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1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize

I had the same problem with weighted clousers of that size and still have the bumps on the back of my head to prove it! Someone replied to my post on this matter and suggested that I try using a shorter leader while someone else replied suggesting that I use a uniform diameter mono leader that is relatively stiff. I tried combining the suggestions by attaching a three foot section of 12#test Berkely Big Game to the end of my Fenwick 9wt WF intermediate sinking line. The fly moved better in the air during false casts, but the mono just couldn’t turn over the fly for a straight presentation. Not that the presentation is essential for the fish, but it helps to keep the line from fouling even before I start stripping. This worked a bit better when I dropped the fly size down to a #2 clouser, but it didn’t solve my original problem. Longer mono sections proved worse in practice and shorter tapered leaders didn’t do it either. I’m still stumped. I recently purchased a 12wt for fishing rougher surf on the south shore of Long Island and was sort of hoping that the line weight increase would help in this situation (I’ll be casting some heavy epoxy flys too). Too bad…. 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket.

Are you using the collapsable variety or the dishpan with/without mono fingers? I use the collapsable and thought that was the problem. Then I fished with another salty flyrodder who had the dishpan (without mono fingers) and he had the same problem…. HH&TL,       Jose

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think that being easier to tie is the ONLY possible advantage that the surgeons knot has over the blood. From my informal tests, I believe the blood knot to be stronger.  Your mileage may vary, but I’d think that there would be a definite answer to this question.  Namely: which is stronger a properly tied blood or properly tied surgeons knot. I have found the surgeons knot superior when the diameters of the two lines differs by more than a few x’s.  This happens mostly when I use a knotless leader and have changed flies a few times too often. I’ve found the blood knot clearly superior when the diameters are nearly the same…as they are when I’m tying my on leaders.  They don’t take long to tie, either, once you get the hang of it.  My biggest problem with the blood knot: I can’t tie it while smoking my pipe!

I am sorry that I did not state this exception in my initial post.  I definitely agree that when the diameters are quite different, I have a difficult time getting a blood knot to hold.  I generally use 3 wraps on each side of the knot, but I will use possibly 5 wraps when tying different size diameters together.  I should possibly consider the surgeons knot in this instance. I am happy to hear someone else who doesn’t think the blood knot is hard to tie.  It is simple: a couple wraps and through, a couple wraps and through, wet, tighten, snip, fish. question: do any of you put zap-a-gap or something similar on the blood knots in your leaders?  Doesit make a difference?

I have tried, but I really have not seen any difference.  It might help prevent the blood knot pulling out in the circumstances outlined above. Enough rambling on my part.  I like the often-chastised blood knot. -tgades

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I would like to cast a vote for tying your own leaders.  True, knotless leaders are easy and do not pick up moss and debris but a hand-tied leader will improve your presentation with drys if you use a hard/soft leader/tippet system.  FlyFisherman has an article in the July edition that talks about it some.  I’ve tied my own leaders for about a year and a half and think they’re worth the effort.

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I would go with the handtied leader.  I use a permanent butt section   attached to my flyline with a nail knot and with a perfection loop in the   end.  I put a perfection loop in the end of my leaders and use a loop to   loop connection.  The flyfish listserv has had extensive discussion   recently concerning failures of braided leader connections at the point   of attachment to the flyline. —   Dept. of Chemistry Centre College 600 W. Walnut St. Danville, KY 40422 phone (606)238-5416

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Conrad,         What do I have to do to subscribe to this flyfish listserv? Jim

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" If you want, I can provide size and length parameters for most species, just tell me which ones you are going for. (and yes, we do sell ready made leaders, too!) Tight Lines Tackle Shop and Guide Service Lockeport, Nova Scotia, Canada

And now a question to bcurry and other ff surfcasters. I was surfcasting last night in Santa Cruz and I had a bitch throwing a 1/0 deceiver. My rodbuilder flipped me a reel to try. This reel (in this order) backing, clear mono, and a 30′ shooting head had a six foot mono leader that I practiced for 2 weeks on grass. All was well. I have a 9′graphite 12 wght rod and the loaner reel/shooting head is about the same. Added to the mono "leader" I added 12′ 5 lb test leader and my deceiver It was foul city. In the surf, with a 30 foot shooting head 2 questions come to mind: 1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize 2. Can you surfcasters get anecdotal about your line selection (i.e. what is better in waves… a 30′ shooting head attached to mono? or a 30′ head attached to some floating line? 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket. thanks for the know-how

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1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize

The Lefty Kreh/Mark Sosin book Practical Fishing Knots II gives a good methodology for constructing saltwater leaders. I use all Mason hard mono for my saltwater leaders, which I tie in the methods suggested in Kreh/Sosin. (i.e. Surgeon’s loops, bimini twists, huffnagle knots, etc.) 2. Can you surfcasters get anecdotal about your line selection (i.e. what is better in waves… a 30′ shooting head attached to mono? or a 30′ head attached to some floating line? 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket. thanks for the know-how

Check out the Teeny running lines. They’re made of limp, braided material which doesn’t curl up and will shoot through the guides easily in case it gets tangled. They’re neutrally-bouyant rather than high-floating like floating fly lines. I like them better than the level fly line-type running lines, but they’re a bit pricey. (Cope & McPheter’s carries them in the Bay area…) Regards, Fred

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I’m just getting started flyfishing, and I’m hooked. Though I’ve been using borrowed gear, I’m going to buy my own rod/reel soon. Unless I hear lots of negative reports about it (I’ve heard tons of good reports), I’m goin to go with the Orvis Clearwater Henry’s Fork outfit (8.5ft/5wt), since about $150-175 is my limit. My real question here, though, is about leaders. I know that Orvis (esp. since I’m buying my rod/reel/line from them) has several different kinds of leader systems: knotless leaders, braided leader system (which seems pretty snazzy), and the ol’ tie ‘em yourself from scratch method (which appeals to the traditionalist in me). Should I start with a knotless or braided leader/tippet system? or Should I learn to tie leaders myself (using books/friends/etc. as advice)? Also, I’m wondering about waders, but I’ve posted that separately. Thanks Steven Jarvis

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I’m just getting started flyfishing, and I’m hooked. My real question here, though, is about leaders. I know that Orvis (esp. since I’m buying my rod/reel/line from them) has several different kinds of leader systems: knotless leaders, braided leader system (which seems pretty snazzy), and the ol’ tie ‘em yourself from scratch method (which appeals to the traditionalist in me). Should I start with a knotless or braided leader/tippet system? or Should I learn to tie leaders myself (using books/friends/etc. as advice)?

Use the braided leader/tippet.  I do and like them a lot.   A sunny day,      a box of midges,         and a wandering stream…   Man, this MUST be heaven!   <    Steve Kulpa    <<

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I like to use knotless tapered leaders. maybe because I’m lazy, but there may be some very slight advantages with them. There are no knots to create drag, and the material has no "memory" (the hand tied t.l.’s i bought at the Yellowstone Angler took forever to straighten out). Also, I noticed that the braided sections can sometimes soak enough water to make them ride just under the surface of the water, which can be annoying. However, these factors are so slight that if your traditional tendencies say tie them yourself then that’s what you should do. Let us know if you have ?’s about size, lengths etc.

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Should you decide to tie your own leaders, for God’s sake free yourself from the tyranny of the blood knot.  You can learn the surgeons knot in about 30 seconds. It’s quicker, its better and it HOLDS.  Remember, all this is supposed to be fun, not rocket science. RLPPT

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My real question here, though, is about leaders. I know that Orvis (esp. since I’m buying my rod/reel/line from them) has several different kinds of leader systems: knotless leaders, braided leader system (which seems pretty snazzy), and the ol’ tie ‘em yourself from scratch method (which appeals to the traditionalist in me). Should I start with a knotless or braided leader/tippet system? or Should I learn to tie leaders myself (using books/friends/etc. as advice)?

Hi, I’d recommend the traditionalist choice, which happens to be the cheapest, too. Learning to tie your own leaders isn’t hard, and works really well, because you can change at will, when the occasion calls for it. Also, you’ll find that some species just don’t have pre-made leaders to buy (i.e. pickerel, which need a 10-15# test, but with a short 6" 30# opr more section to avoid "bite-offs". If you wantr, I can provide size and length parameters for most species, just tell me which ones you are going for. (and yes, we do sell ready made leaders, too!) Tight Lines Tackle Shop and Guide Service Lockeport, Nova Scotia, Canada

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Should you decide to tie your own leaders, for God’s sake free yourself from the tyranny of the blood knot.  You can learn the surgeons knot in about 30 seconds. It’s quicker, its better and it HOLDS.  Remember, all this is supposed to be fun, not rocket science. RLPPT

I think that being easier to tie is the ONLY possible advantage that the surgeons knot has over the blood.  From my informal tests, I believe the blood knot to be stronger.  Your mileage may vary, but I’d think that there would be a definite answer to this question.  Namely: which is stronger a properly tied blood or properly tied surgeons knot. I have personally found the answer to be the blood. -tgades

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: Should you decide to tie your own leaders, for God’s sake free yourself : from the tyranny of the blood knot.  You can learn the surgeons knot in : about 30 seconds. : It’s quicker, its better and it HOLDS.  Remember, all this is supposed to : be fun, not rocket science. RLPPT : I think that being easier to tie is the ONLY possible advantage that the : surgeons knot has over the blood.  From my informal tests, I believe the blood : knot to be stronger.  Your mileage may vary, but I’d think that there would : be a definite answer to this question.  Namely: which is stronger a properly : tied blood or properly tied surgeons knot. I have found the surgeons knot superior when the diameters of the two lines differs by more than a few x’s.  This happens mostly when I use a knotless leader and have changed flies a few times too often. I’ve found the blood knot clearly superior when the diameters are nearly the same…as they are when I’m tying my on leaders.  They don’t take long to tie, either, once you get the hang of it.  My biggest problem with the blood knot: I can’t tie it while smoking my pipe! question: do any of you put zap-a-gap or something similar on the blood knots in your leaders?  Doesit make a difference? — Laboratory for Applied Logic    Dept. of Computer Science University of Idaho             www: http://www.cs.uidaho.edu/~foster

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