Question:

This morning, 4/22, I looked out my window, in Northern New Jersey, and saw a mayfly on the glass.  Spinner, size 14, two tails, light grey/dun underside, heavily segmented abdomen, very small second wings.  These show up on my back door and back windows in small numbers every April.  Any opinions on possible species/genus? Beyond the question of what it was, I wondered where the dickens it came from. The lake is 150 yards away in a straight line from the front door.  And it gets very warm in summer; tosses up a ton of bug life but not mayflys.  There are some small springs about 200 yards away to the rear of the house but I didn’t think they survived the summers.  Now I have visions of a relict population of Brook Trout hiding in the town land behind me. Something to think about until I can go fishing. Glenn GKT

Response:

You don’t give much information except grey underside and two tails.  The only thing I can think of that comes close to a size 14 is Callibaetis americanus This is no guarantee that I’ve identified it correctly but this is the may fly that fits best what you say. George Gehrke "May Days are here"

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This morning, 4/22, I looked out my window, in Northern New Jersey, and saw a mayfly on the glass.  Spinner, size 14, two tails, light grey/dun underside, heavily segmented abdomen, very small second wings.  These show up on my back door and back windows in small numbers every April.  Any opinions on possible species/genus? Beyond the question of what it was, I wondered where the dickens it came from. The lake is 150 yards away in a straight line from the front door.  And it gets very warm in summer; tosses up a ton of bug life but not mayflys.  There are some small springs about 200 yards away to the rear of the house but I didn’t think they survived the summers.  Now I have visions of a relict population of Brook Trout hiding in the town land behind me. Something to think about until I can go fishing. Glenn GKT

Response:

Question:

Been doing some smallmouth fishing myself.  Its not well known out here; I had a number of trout fisherman try my drift without catching any trout at all.  Imagine that!   They gave up and left and I continued to catch an occasional 2lb smallie.  I have only recently discovered this fishery myself and it makes for  a really nice change of pace.  In fact I am going to leave the stone fly hatch on the South Fork to the YUFFIES and go looking for more smallie water.  I really like those fish… John.

Response:

 The little 10 inch smallie inhaled Dale’s bug but Dianna was able to release with a twist of the wrist without lifting the fish from the water.  It was interesting to note that this section of river has excellent big Bluegill but all the strikes she had came from smallmouth!

I am sorry that the bluegill did not cooperate. I have a hard time testing the flies on smallmouth because there are so few around here. I am sure she had a smile on her face. Thanks for the trip report…I felt like I was there. Big Dale

Response:

 At last, this past weekend saw the Rappahannock water levels fall enough to allow for safer wading.  My wife and I set out early (5:15 am) Sunday morning to be on the river before 6.  I had to make BIG promises about the rest of the day to get her up that time of the morning (4:30).  She actually beat me out the door and we arrived at the river as the sun was coming up over the river.  A long legged wading bird stood sentry on the water, his reflection mirrored in a quiet pool.  Two pair of Mallards moved noisily away from the bank as we walked down the trail.  Dianna carried the Connor rod to gain the advantage of the extra 2 ft. of rod length on this river and the extra weight of the line for larger smallmouth bugs.  I started with a Murray’s Leadeyed Hellgrammite behind an AirFlo super-fast sinking leader and 3 ft. of 1X tippet.  Dianna rigged the Connor up with a floating leader and a BIG DALE FOAM SPIDER.  Being nearly a foot shorter, Dianna fished closer to the bank and I took the middle of the river.  We worked downstream together.  She had the first three strikes and first fish.  Smallmouth bass were eager that morning.  The little 10 inch smallie inhaled Dale’s bug but Dianna was able to release with a twist of the wrist without lifting the fish from the water.  It was interesting to note that this section of river has excellent big Bluegill but all the strikes she had came from smallmouth!  In the meantime, I worked the deeper sloughs fishing the Hellgrammite across and down stripping back in slow twitches.  WHAM!!  A 14" fish!  WHAM!! his grandfather!   WHAM!! the fist fish’s sister/girlfriend (West Virginia?).  The morning was going beautifully.  Dianna paused after a few fish to sit on a large rock and just watch the river.  She spotted a muskrat swimming across and soon a Bald Eagle made his appearance. All fishing action stopped to watch that bird wing gracefully upriver. We fished a while longer then headed out to IHOP for a big breakfast of eggs and Harvest Grain and Nut pancakes.  The hubbub of civilization was just 5 minutes away from our wilderness jaunt on the river. — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

Response:

At last, this past weekend saw the Rappahannock water levels fall enough to allow for safer wading.

        (neat report snipped) thanks for reviving some great memories of that gorgeous river! wayno

Response:

thanks for reviving some great memories of that gorgeous river! wayno

We were fishing just about 200 yards downstream of where we were wading when Anthony caught his first smallie.  Warmer weather but that pink glow in the sky from sunrise and water temperature about 75.  Nice caddis hatch coming off. — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

I got hooked on it this summer and I recommend that you check out www.kayakfishing.com  Spike is really knowledgeable and I know that you will find what advice you need there.  I got a Malibu 2 (Ocean Kayak) and love it all the way.  i have boated some very large fish from this thing and am now really confident that the sit-on-tops are the way to go. Fish-on I spent quite a bit of time fishing from a canoe, but think I’d like to try a kayak, particularly for carrying in relatively short distances to lakes without boat ramps.  I think I’d prefer an open cockpit, or sit-on type.  Someone suggested I look into the "Pungo".  Does anyone have any experience with the Pungo, or ideas about other types I should be considering?  Thanks much. chuck

– MZ

Response:

I saw someone fly fishing from a kayak this past weekend.  It was quite the site!  I think they were in a Perception Carolina? My Old Town Heron has a large cockpit area but its heavy (50lbs or so) so its not easy to carry long distances.  You ought to look at Dagger’s Atlantis, its a large cockpit and its a pretty light boat. — http://www.ncseakayak.com North Carolina’s Headquarters for Sea Kayakers! Before you buy.

Response:

Ifly fish about 4 days a week, from my kayak’s mostly. I’ve migrated to dagger’s delta & bayou models. Their stable & stealth I can park them anywhere with low profile they get little wind drift. I use a 2 ft. hand paddle to position boat  from place to place as i fish. my wife claims I’ve become obsesed,I think i’ve finialy discovered the ultimate fly fishing vehicle.  good luck& enjoy

Response:

I spent quite a bit of time fishing from a canoe, but think I’d like to try a kayak, particularly for carrying in relatively short distances to lakes without boat ramps.  I think I’d prefer an open cockpit, or sit-on type.  Someone suggested I look into the "Pungo".  Does anyone have any experience with the Pungo, or ideas about other types I should be considering?  Thanks much. chuck

Response:

I spent quite a bit of time fishing from a canoe, but think I’d like to try a kayak, particularly for carrying in relatively short distances to lakes without boat ramps.  I think I’d prefer an open cockpit, or sit-on type.  Someone suggested I look into the "Pungo".  Does anyone have any experience with the Pungo, or ideas about other types I should be considering?  Thanks much.

The Pungo seems to be a big seller in the Atlanta area, but I like my Ride (also by Wilderness Systems). The Ride is a sit-on-top as opposed to an open cockpit, and if keeping your butt dry is important it’s probably not for you<g. The Ride is also probably more awkward to carry than the Pungo, I got a set of wheels that slip on the back of a kayak or canoe to use on mine. — Charlie…

Response:

Chuck, I use to fish from a small boat I owned and sometimes from canoes I rented. I sold the boat and didn’t fish for many years. This past summer I decided to fish again and thought to buy a canoe but ended up buying a kayak. I’ll share the details – maybe it will be of help in some way. – canoes were more expensive than I thought and the   idea of using a kayak came to mind. I had no idea what kayaks cost – thought they might be cheaper. I had never heard of anyone fishing from a kayak but thought maybe it would work. – I wanted something small enough to store in my garage.  I did some research online. I was surprised at how long and how expensive some kayaks are. I identified the major companies and the smaller, less expensive models. I narrowed my search to about 3 kayaks. Only one of them had a distributer close by (20 miles away). They had a website and I got the basic info from that. I called and made arrangements to come look at the model of interest – an Old Town – Otter – they had to bring it in from their warehouse several miles away. They had a ‘Loon’ – a more expensive and longer model in stock that was nice but I bought the Otter for just over $300. – the otter is 9′ 6" long and fits just perfect on top of my car, it has a large open cockpit easy to enter/exit, it is not built to ‘roll’ – which having never ridden in a kayak I didn’t know how to do, and I’m not sure ‘rolling’ and fishing go together anyway! It fits nicely in my garage. It weighs 39 pounds – about as light as I could find- and is easy to carry. – I knew nothing about tracking, speed, compounds etc when I bought it but I think all that turned out ok with what I got and the casual fishing I’m doing. – I didn’t know if there would be enough room to fish comfortably from a kayak but it turned out there is – for me. All my ‘gear’ goes in my small backpack – the other items are a paddle and a ‘life jacket’ and one fishing rod. I have a bow line and a stern line tied to the kayak – they are used to tie the kayak to the car. When I launch – I tie the bow line to my paddle and the stern line to my pack – in case I ever flip. I rest my legs on the pack – it’s right in front of me with easy access to my lures etc. I’ve learned to rest the paddle across the kayak when not in use and to ‘fish around it’. I’ve never had a problem  landing a fish because the paddle got in the way. – I don’t know if other styles of kayaks such as those you ’sit on top’ would work better or not – I’ve never tried one. I have made trips of up to 3-4 hrs without getting out of the kayak – I can shift my seating position a little and that helps- but you can’t move around much. -kayak fishing isn’t for everyone, but I like it. I’m small (5′ 8"), a good swimmer (also scuba certified), very comfortable in and around the water, comfortable in confined spaces (use to do some cave exploring). I like being low on the water while I fish – and the way I’m able to move the kayak into places larger craft don’t go – in and around the bank / stumps etc – and it’s so peaceful and quiet – I can come up on fish very quietly – some even swim over to check me out. I think I enjoyed my past canoe trips because it ‘put me close to nature’ – and with the kayak I feel even closer. – the places I fish have boat ramps, but once I went where there was no ramp. I had to carry the kayak down a hill about 50 feet. It was not a problem – but it did take more effort than I thought it would. I wouldn’t want to carry it a hundred yards! – as for negatives, the kayak tips over relatively easy – (that hasn’t been a problem for me), it’s sensitive to the wind – this can be a challenge while trying to fish – sometimes I can take advantage by drifting, depending on shoreline location or even doing some trolling. – I’ll be happy to share other info or answer questions. -larry

Response:

You should look into the Old Towne Loon series.  They have a large open cockpit and are very stable. Bill Bernhardt

Response:

Does anyone have any experience with the Pungo, or ideas about other types I should be considering?

The Pungo would be a great choice – stable, roomy, relatively fast for its size, not too heavy to cart around.

Response:

Here are two sites to try: http://www.waldenkayak.com/models.html ( scroll down to the Walden Scout ) and http://www.otccanoe.com/loon138.html check out the Old Town Loon 138

Response:

Hey Chuck, I do alot of fishing from a sit on top out here in the Pacific ocean. I have an ocean kayak scupper classic. This is a popular boat out here for fishing from. It is about 14 feet long, fairly stable, and has two big hatches so you can store gear inside the kayak. It doesn’t roll, you will fall off before you roll it…but the best thing that I have found is to sit sideways, with your feet in the water when fishing. This makes the boat very stable, I have never even come close to feeling like I was going to tip, when sitting sideways. Its also really comfortable that way. Necky also makes some nice models for fishing and so does Perception. Our company makes some wheels which use the drain holes on many sit on tops as mounting points,(that way the cart can’t slip off the back of the kayak when going over curbs, rocks, roots, etc.) they collapse so you can fit them inside the hatches on the kayak. This is really handy, because once you get to the water, you just disassemble the wheels and take them with you instead of having to take them back to the car. You can make some pole holders out of pvc pipe, or mount some of the holders available at tackle stores to the deck of the kayak, which is really handy. We put sonar on our kayaks too, once you outfit the kayak you have a great fishing machine…This might be more info than you asked for, but what can I say, Im enthusiastic about the sport. Good luck E Scary Sports http://www.scarysports.com

Response:

I spent quite a bit of time fishing from a canoe, but think I’d like to try a kayak, particularly for carrying in relatively short distances to lakes without boat ramps.  I think I’d prefer an open cockpit, or sit-on type. Someone suggested I look into the "Pungo".  Does anyone have any experience with the Pungo, or ideas about other types I should be considering?  Thanks much. chuck

Chuck, look at this site before you do anything: http://www.kayakfishing.com/ Also, make sure you look at all the different boats that might suit your purpose (lake, river, or ocean fishing). In recent years, there have been many innovations, especially in plastic sitontop boats, so give them a try before settling for a more "traditional" solution. For example, Ocean Kayaks, Perception, and Cobra all have models that come with decks molded to accept small coolers, SCUBA tanks, dry bags, caught fish, etc., that are instantly accessible from the seat. Some have hatches that open into compartments that can be used as live bait or fish wells, and can even be equipped with areators. These kayaks can also be outfitted with small anchors or sea drogues to help with drifting, clips to hold spare paddles and rods, rod holders, etc. Perception sells "outback" models of a couple of its boats that are fully geared up for the "outdoorsman," with many of the options I mentioned above. Have fun! Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Get the Pungo.  It’s a GREAT fishing kayak!! Courtney Rapid Adventures

Response:

I spent quite a bit of time fishing from a canoe, but think I’d like to try a kayak,

The Perception Axess comes in two styles, one style is specificly designed and outfitted for fishing. The boat is a "closed" cockpit type but can easily be paddled without a skirt on flat water and the front of the cockpit area is equipped with little tackle trays and such goodies. It is a very stable boat and a lot of thought went into the bow hull design to reduce the "slapping" of the water that spooks fish. The fishing version of this boat comes in subdued colors, and as far as I know, it is the only boat of its kind anywhere at any price. The whitewater variant is a full-on creek boat and the only real differences are in color, cockpit design and outfitting. The fishing axess has a pretty cool rod holder built in as well. Its a nice nice boat, and yes, I have paddled it. take care have fun go fishing :wq Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Question:

I am going fly fishing in the Sierras Oct. 1.  Has anyone been to Lake Crowley or Lake Sotcher recently.  If so can you let me know what you

Response:

 Just got back on the 29th and grasshoppers are the hot ticket!!! I am going back Oct 8th for 6 more days.                  K.S. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am going fly fishing in the Sierras Oct. 1.  Has anyone been to Lake Crowley or Lake Sotcher recently.  If so can you let me know what you

Response:

Just got back on the 29th and grasshoppers are the hot ticket!!! I am going back Oct 8th for 6 more days.                 K.S.

RE: grasshoppers, were you fishing them in the lake or up at the mouth of the Owens where it drops into the lake? FAS – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am going fly fishing in the Sierras Oct. 1.  Has anyone been to Lake Crowley or Lake Sotcher recently.  If so can you let me know what you

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?  I know up in the Sierra’s you can still catch Volcano creek and Kern river Goldens in what I think are their ancestral (sp?) waters, but where else?  Are there still some Apache trout swimming where they always have, without the assistance of Man?  Greenbacks?  Lahontans?  Are the Cutts in Yellowstone completely pure?  Or have they been augmented by Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this topic? JE

Try the south fork of the Flathead river. Only has native west slope cutthroats and dolly varden. both are thriving, and are natives.   little hard to reach though…. in the bob Marshall Wilderness…. which is why they are still natives.

Response:

I’m on the other side of the mountains, but there are a few little small streams coming down out of the mountains near my house have have native brookies.  And 8 incher is a lunker, but they’re gorgeous.

Response:

Apache trout are still found in decent numbers in one watershed on the eastern Sierra, but no fishing is allowed and it is patrolled by a back country ranger whose only territory is that particular watershed.

OOOOOOPPPPS!! This was supposed to say Piute Cutthroat, not Apache trout.                                       Sorry ’bout that,                                               Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man? Jon, I don’t know a lot about many places, but wild native Brook Trout are still to be found in a few of the spring creek headwaters in the Appalachians (North Georgia, N.C.) but they are having a real tough time surviving the ever encroaching effects of man. As I’m sure you’re aware, the Brookie needs colder, clearer water than most freshwater species, and this presents a problem as the streams warm due to the activities on or near the various watershed.  Also, they cannot fend for themselves when pitted against Browns and Rainbows for a limited food supply. Sadly, another problem that the little brookies have is that they have a reputation of being too easy, and too small (we’re not talking Labrador here) so they don’t get a lot of attention.

Here in the eastern  part of Tn we still have some native brookies. It looks like they are coming back. I recently caught and released a  10 inch brook trout and caught many more of lesser caliber. Hans

Response:

Fereira) writes: Do you know if the "Eagle Lake" rainbow is considered "native"?

Yes, it is native to Eagle Lake in Northern CA but has also been transplanted to lots of otherwise dead waters or to places where water is too alkaline for other types of trout including more common strains of rainbows .  This particular strain can tolerate higher alkalinity than normal trout.  They also get REAL BIG!                                   Good Fishing,                                        Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

Response:

Yep! Terry Weir is right. Every fish I catch is a native, wild fish! Love that salt water biodiversity too! Wayne Marshall

Response:

I think the brookies in Shenandoah NP are native. — Charlie… You weren’t supposed to tell

OOPs<g. They are so pretty though and hard enough to catch that I hope I didn’t do any harm. I can remember hiking back in a couple of miles, suprising a bear or two, and crawling up behind a boulder to make a cast into a pool that couldn’t have been much bigger than the inside of my rental car. What a lot of fun! — Charlie…

Response:

Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?  I know up in the Sierra’s you can still catch Volcano creek and Kern river Goldens in what I think are their ancestral (sp?) waters, but where else?  Are there still some Apache trout swimming where they always have, without the assistance of Man?  Greenbacks?  Lahontans?  Are the Cutts in Yellowstone completely pure?  Or have they been augmented by Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this topic? JE

I think the brookies in Shenandoah NP are native. — Charlie…

Response:

I think the brookies in Shenandoah NP are native. — Charlie…

You weren’t supposed to tell

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man? JE <snip you would like the book "Native Trout of North America" by Robert H. Smith published by Amato Publications.  this book is a search for native, pure strain fish.  lots of searching of the high desert, tiny streams, etc.  pretty good reading too.  he goes after the fish with a fly rod. I second the recommendation for Robert H. Smiths book.  It’s been my resourse for any question that have come up in the group over the past few years.   John Fereira

  Yes; also for a strictly scientific approach to this interesting subject, try Robert J. Behnke’s monograph of western trouts: _Native Trout of Western North America_ pub. by: American Fisheries Society 5410 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 110 Bethesda, MD  20814   Cheers, and tight Lines! – Mark

Response:

: Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the : continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the [snip] : Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this : topic? Read Lewis and Clark’s Journal.  The same fish are still here in this part of the world. — 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

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Otherwise thank all your angler fellows introducing brook trout, rainbows, and – even worse- brown trout (of course with WD) into rivers where they outcompete the natives.

[deleted] Then the hypocritical irony of calling these the ‘wild fish’ and not wanting to eat ‘em because they are beautiful wild fish. TimW

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ry the Atlantic ocean. Native Stripers and Blues up to 30 lbs or more on a fly. That’s fishin!                                 Terry Weir         Right on Terry.  I grew up on Long Island sound and looked forward to every autum for a shot at those really BIG Blues.           I was speaking specifically of trout in the post though.  By the way, how is the Bluefish run shaping up this year?  It’s been a long time…… JE

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?  I know up in the Sierra’s you can still catch Volcano creek and Kern river Goldens in what I think are their ancestral (sp?) waters, but where else?  Are there still some Apache trout swimming where they always have, without the assistance of Man?  Greenbacks?  Lahontans?  Are the Cutts in Yellowstone completely pure?  Or have they been augmented by Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this topic? California is loaded with native rainbows.  They are indiginous to the west slope of the sierra and are wide spread with many identifiable strains.

Do you know if the "Eagle Lake" rainbow is considered "native"? The giant Lahontan Cutthroat is gone for good, but some "almost" pure strain can still be found in the Eastern Sierra and in Pyramid Lake in Nevada.  The population in Pyramid Lake is artificially spawned each year by the Indians who control the Lake.  The original strain was wiped out with Bureau of Land Management project #1 which was the Darby Dam on the Truckee River.  

The Piute cutthroat can still be found in it’s native waters in an area a bit further south. Ralph Cutter has some great info on these trout in his book "Sierra Trout Guide".

Agreed. Robert Behnke has a good book out on Native Trout of North America (think that’s the title) but it is hard to find and expensive.

Actually Behnke’s book is called "Native Trout of Western North America".   Robert Smiths book is called "Native Trout of North America".                                  Hope this helps,                                          Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

John Fereira Stop Unsolicited Commercial Email – Join CAUCE (http://www.cauce.org) Support HR 1748, the anti-spam bill.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?  I know up in the Sierra’s you can still catch Volcano creek and Kern river Goldens in what I think are their ancestral (sp?) waters, but where else?  Are there still some Apache trout swimming where they always have, without the assistance of Man?  Greenbacks?  Lahontans?  Are the Cutts in Yellowstone completely pure?  Or have they been augmented by Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this topic? JE you would like the book "Native Trout of North America" by Robert H. Smith published by Amato Publications.  this book is a search for native, pure strain fish.  lots of searching of the high desert, tiny streams, etc.  pretty good reading too.  he goes after the fish with a fly rod.

I second the recommendation for Robert H. Smiths book.  It’s been my resourse for any question that have come up in the group over the past few years.   John Fereira Stop Unsolicited Commercial Email – Join CAUCE (http://www.cauce.org) Support HR 1748, the anti-spam bill.

Response:

Try the Atlantic ocean. Native Stripers and Blues up to 30 lbs or more on a fly. That’s fishin!                                 Terry Weir

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Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?  I know up in the Sierra’s you can still catch Volcano creek and Kern river Goldens in what I think are their ancestral (sp?) waters, but where else?  Are there still some Apache trout swimming where they always have, without the assistance of Man?  Greenbacks?  Lahontans?  Are the Cutts in Yellowstone completely pure?  Or have they been augmented by Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this topic?

California is loaded with native rainbows.  They are indiginous to the west slope of the sierra and are wide spread with many identifiable strains.  The Shasta rainbow is one strain that is found throughout northern CA, and the McCloud rainbow is still found in its native waters of the McCloud river in CA.  Strange thing, McCloud has the Shasta Rainbow and the McCloud (subspecies) in the same water along with the non-native brown trout (two strains of that one also).  Pure strain McCloud rainbows are easily discerned by their tangerine orange stripe and cheeks along with orange cuts under the chin.  Not often caught, but spectacular fish. There is not a question what it is when you catch one. Specific strains of Steelhead have been all but wiped out in many areas, But some native runs survive.  Skamania Strain (Washington state strain from Skamania River) hatchery replacements were introduced in many of the rivers to mitigate the destruction (and continued destruction) of their habitat.  Poor attempt at a solution. Apache trout are still found in decent numbers in one watershed on the eastern Sierra, but no fishing is allowed and it is patrolled by a back country ranger whose only territory is that particular watershed. Numerous fly fishing clubs have helped with stream reconstruction projects ther to help repair damage from grazing cattle. The giant Lahontan Cutthroat is gone for good, but some "almost" pure strain can still be found in the Eastern Sierra and in Pyramid Lake in Nevada.  The population in Pyramid Lake is artificially spawned each year by the Indians who control the Lake.  The original strain was wiped out with Bureau of Land Management project #1 which was the Darby Dam on the Truckee River.   Although they thought they provided for it, the dam wiped out all of the spawning area and within a few years, the 40 lb. + Lahontan Cutthroat were gone.  Used to be a cannery at the mouth of the Lake that netted fish, canned them, and shipped them throughout the world in the 1800’s.  Was a booming industry until the dam.  They did find some pockets of the Lahontan Cutthroat in some lakes on the east slope of the Sierra and that is what is currently in Pyramid Lake.  There is some controversy as to whether they are pure strain or not, but they don’t grow nearly as large as the native strain that was in Pyramid Lake.  Still catch 8 to 15 lb. Cutthroat there, but not much chance of breaking that 40 lb. record. Goldens can still be found in the Kern drainage (native waters), but few are pure strain as there were hatchery plants again in the 1800’s when rainbow hatcheries were thought to be the best thing since sliced bread. There are some pure strain fish still in there that were geologically isolated from the drainage they dumped the rainbow plants in.  Ralph Cutter has some great info on these trout in his book "Sierra Trout Guide". We also have lots of native squaw fish but they are not much of a gamefish and they predate on salmonids. Robert Behnke has a good book out on Native Trout of North America (think that’s the title) but it is hard to find and expensive.                                   Hope this helps,                                           Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

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Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?   snip< JE

 Try Maine, Jon.  There are still places producing  fairly good size native brook trout.   And, the landlock salmon fishing ain’t too shabby either.  However, I believe the landlocks were stocked as fingerlings years ago.  Of course you may have trouble finding *exactly* where to go. ;0) Dave L.

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Anyone out there know where the native trout are?  I mean, where in the continental US can a person fish for trout that are native to the watershed they’re in presently, and have been there since before Man?  I know up in the Sierra’s you can still catch Volcano creek and Kern river Goldens in what I think are their ancestral (sp?) waters, but where else?  Are there still some Apache trout swimming where they always have, without the assistance of Man?  Greenbacks?  Lahontans?  Are the Cutts in Yellowstone completely pure?  Or have they been augmented by Man at any time?  I’d really love to know.  Is there a good book on this topic? JE

Take a look at Ralph Cutters book about the Sierra Nevada. Otherwise thank all your angler fellows introducing brook trout, rainbows, and – even worse- brown trout (of course with WD) into rivers where they outcompete the natives. Look at recent discussions about the reintroduction of native grayling into Yellowstone National Park and all the counterarguments of these f****** stupid fisherman who only want to catch lots of big fish without caring about ecological interconnections. The general agreement of environmental destruction (what else is the deminishing of species variety in a given biotop?) is responsible that you can

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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Question:

I am planning a trip to Prince of Wales Island, Alaska, in mid May.  I plan on fly fishing the streams of the island.  Hopefully there will still be some spring steelheads around, but if not, I will go after Cut-throats and Dolly Varden. Has anyone ever fished there?  Any suggestions on specific rivers? Specific flies? Also, is there any saltwater fly fishing available in the area? Any info will be greatly appreciated. Frank Perkins Melbourne, FL

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Rich Culver is the only flyfishing guide I know of in that area, and he pretty much knows it all–an osprey of a man.  He can set you up for fly outs from Juneau or Gustavus, at the Galcier Bay Country Inn, where they treated my one-year-old daughter like Princess Di.  Rich also runs some spectacular trips along the coast from a big  "mothership," where I ate king crab until my arms drooped, and from which you can drop Zodiaks in 90 seconds.   Silvers, steelhead, dollies, et al. Even if you’re not interested in a guide, e-mail him for info, and to tell him he should pay me for posts like this one. Rich Culver Flywater Adventures 907/789-2102 Glacier Bay Country Inn www.glacierbayalaska.com 800/ 628-09812

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Rich Culver is the only flyfishing guide I know of in that area, and he pretty much knows it all–an osprey of a man.  He can set you up for fly outs from Juneau or Gustavus, at the Galcier Bay Country Inn, where they treated my one-year-old daughter like Princess Di.  Rich also runs some spectacular trips along the coast from a big  "mothership," where I ate king crab until my arms drooped, and from which you can drop Zodiaks in 90 seconds.   Silvers, steelhead, dollies, et al. Even if you’re not interested in a guide, e-mail him for info, and to tell him he should pay me for posts like this one. Rich Culver Flywater Adventures 907/789-2102 Glacier Bay Country Inn www.glacierbayalaska.com 800/ 628-09812

While I recieved my information second hand (From Clients who have fished with Mr. Culver and Myself) I too have heard good things about this operation. Paul Hansen Alaska Rainbow Adventures http://www.akrainbow.com

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Question:

  Given the Spiral of Death this ng has been in for a while, I  can only attribute it to    CABIN FEVER <<<   First of the year no less.   I  suggest we all run from our keyboards screaming some " PC" epithet and dive into the snow or at least in the freezer outside. Return  to your bench and tye  a dozen #22 Royal Humpys and call it a day.  All references to anatomical parts or functions, should be spoken, face down into the snow in a civil tone. Use of Prosaic & White Label with sensory depravation devices is frowned upon, but not forbidden. Remember that not long ago there was a good PMD hatch,that you just missed and the Sun was high and warm, and the river felt cool. We will be back there soon, Britt slang or no .   Harry "Only hundred and ten dozen more… shit"

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Hi Harry I agree with your "take" on the situation. The next thing we know someone with starting talking about Rush Limbaugh or Larry King and go bouncing in another direction. I like you "face down in the snow" idea, that would sure bring me up short. Speaking of which, I have about 14" of snow to shovel off the driveway, I guess I better get started. Darn! Other topic: You state at your signature "Only hundred and ten dozen more…" Are you a commercial tier? If you are I certainly understand you statement. Gretchen and I are winding down on an order for 350 dozen Royal Wulffs – only 27 more dozen to go. And then we have about another 800 to go. Oh well, Montana winter are long and we have plenty of time. Happy Holidays. — Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (97 materials catalog) http://www.flyshop.com/Expo/Specialty/BTsPdcts/index.html

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Question:

:      I have been looking for some time for a book describing fly tieing :   materials. More specifically, a book that addresses questions like: :   Which fur on an elk is best suited for tieing dry flies like the caddis? :   Is fur from other parts of the animal better for other patterns. :      Alex I’ve never seen THE book you’re looking for.  But, Herters put out a book in the 1930’s that had a diagram of a duck and what feathers were used for what fly parts.  That’s as close as I can get you.  Anyone else want to take a shot? Charley

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     I have been looking for some time for a book describing fly tieing   materials. More specifically, a book that addresses questions like:   Which fur on an elk is best suited for tieing dry flies like the caddis?   Is fur from other parts of the animal better for other patterns.   Other useful information might be answers to questions concerning where   or how these materials are usually obtained; for example:   When I buy a calf tail, did that tail, most likely, come from a veal   ranch? If not where? Is there some type of cattle ranching that involves   the systematic "docking" of calf tails?   Or, try this one, I raise ornamental pheasants. I have had many   fly tiers request golden pheasants that were 3 to 6 years old. When I   ask why, the usual answer is, "cause they’re brighter". This couldn’t   be more wrong. Here’s why.   Say a golden pheasant is hatched in May of year N. That bird will initially   feather out in a pattern of browns and blacks, similar to the adult hen.   We are now in about September of year N. The bird does not molt in year N.   Over the remainder of year N, the bird gradually starts changing color to   match the adult male. By May of year N + 1, the bird has blotches of color   covering much of its body, but still has many of the juvenile feathers.   Towards the end of summer, early fall, of year N + 1, the bird molts and   emerges from the molt in October or November, in dazzling color. The bird   is now about 1 and 1/2 years old. Trust me, this is the brightest this   bird will EVER be and will never exit a molt this bright again. So, if   there is an advantage to an older bird it certainly isn’t brighter colors.   If there is an advantage, what is it.   As far as birds go, this has been my observation for most species. That   is, the first molt into total adult hood is the best for color. By the   way, the age at which this happens varies from one species to the next.   For example, a Himalayan Monol (Impeyan), reaches adulthood at 2 and 1/2   years. The only exception I know to this, is the peacock. I don’t seem to   see much loss in color due to age and the feathers seem to get bigger and   nicer for the first 4 to 5 years at least.   Anyway if such a book exists, I would be interested in hearing about it.   Thanks for your time,      Alex —             Alex Dorchak     Voice : (206) 356-6443     USMAIL: John Fluke Mfg. Co. / P.O. Box 9090 / Everett WA  98206-9090

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:      I have been looking for some time for a book describing fly tieing :   materials. More specifically, a book that addresses questions like:

Eric Leiser, Fly Tying Materials (Crown, 1973) and several more. —  |          Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Rd., Carlsbad         |  |        Springs, Ont., Canada K0A 1K0; tel: (613) 822-0734       |  |  "What I’ve always liked about science is its independence from |  |  authority"–Ontario Science Centre (name on file) 10 July 1981 |

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – :      I have been looking for some time for a book describing fly tieing :   materials. More specifically, a book that addresses questions like: :   Which fur on an elk is best suited for tieing dry flies like the caddis? :   Is fur from other parts of the animal better for other patterns. :      Alex I’ve never seen THE book you’re looking for.  But, Herters put out a book in the 1930’s that had a diagram of a duck and what feathers were used for what fly parts.  That’s as close as I can get you.  Anyone else want to take a shot? Charley

Eric Leisure put out a book called "Fly Tying Materials" that covered a heck of a lot about lots of different materials used for tying flies. Seems to me to be the definitive work on the subject. You might see if you can locate/borrow a copy to see if he covers the particular nuances you’re interested in (I read it *many* years ago but can’t remember such details)… /dave <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< < Digital Equipment Corp.    Alpha Server Engineering  < <         "Read this and nobody gets hurt ;^)"         < <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

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    I have been looking for some time for a book describing fly tieing  materials. More specifically, a book that addresses questions like:  Which fur on an elk is best suited for tieing dry flies like the caddis?  Is fur from other parts of the animal better for other patterns.

I can’t remember the reference but I recall reading an article out of one of the flyfishing magazines that cover different kinds of hair (I don’t think an elk really has "fur").  Amoung other things it described a number of differents kinds of hair (deer, elk, moose, bear, etc) and the boyuancy qualities and even went into the best time of year to take hair from an animal (when it needs a haircut?) and a number of other interesting bits of information.  I’ll see if I can dig the article out somewhere. — John Fereira Isis Distributed Systems  Ithaca, NY

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    I have been looking for some time for a book describing fly tieing  materials. More specifically, a book that addresses questions like:  Which fur on an elk is best suited for tieing dry flies like the caddis?  Is fur from other parts of the animal better for other patterns.

There is a comprehensive book on the subject by Eric Leiser: Fly Tying Materials. There are others but this is the only one I can remember right off the top. Todd L. McCagg – Mfr Rep of Musical Esoteria Modulus-Spector-SWR-Hughes & Kettner-Premier Fernandes-EMG-CB Labs Pocket Rock-It (husband-father-bassist-flyfisher-flytyer-homebrewer)

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rare & unusual materials: a natural history written by paul schmookler & ingrid v. sils order from the complete sportsman p.o. box 104, millis MA 02054

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Question:

I’m taking a trip in June.  I have no clue about the possibilities and need help.  Bone, cuda, what?  Please help!

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Bermuda used to be famous for Yellowfin tuna and Wahoo (30-80Lbs). The charter boats would go 2 hours out to two reefs, anchor and then chum. Not that many people fly fished for those brutes. There was also Bermuda Jack that run about 20 Lbs. I don’t know how good the fishing is these days. You’ll have to ask the Government Tourist office in Bermuda. Alan Card and his brother used to be the best charter captains on the island, by far, (among the best in the world as far as I’m concerned). There is really no shore fishing because the shore drops off quickly, not like in the Bahamas. Also the Bermuda Chub that are inshore are not worth it (too difficult to catch). Just one last reminder, I think it is too late to make a charter boat reservation with a good captain for this year. You have to book one year in advance. The best time, if I can remember,  for tuna and wahoo is June and October. Remember, this is very expensive fishing, very classy island. But I have had some of my best fishing experiences there. Sort of like going Marlin fishing in Hawaii.  

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503/639-6400.  He knows tons of details and can set you up or you could just pick his brain.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m taking a trip in June.  I have no clue about the possibilities and need help.  Bone, cuda, what?  Please help!

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Call Jerry Swanson at Kaufmann’s Streamborn: 800/442-4359; 503/639-6400.  He knows lots of details and he can help set you up (he books lots ‘o trips) or you could just pick his brain.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m taking a trip in June.  I have no clue about the possibilities and need help.  Bone, cuda, what?  Please help!

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