Question:

Try building an order entry system for a large telco with a unionized work force. The union threatens to sue the company over the fonts and says the system is too easy to use, thereby threatening the jobs of the current call center workers because they "could" "conceivalby" be replaced by lower paid workers who don’t require the *13 weeks* of training that the old sytem required. This was a few jobs ago

Sheesh… you came just in time.  I was about to crack open a roll of foil On a positive note, I get back-to-back to business trips to San Diego and Las Vegas. So hopefully I can break out of the Northern VA winter doldrums and get in five or six rounds of golf.

Oh, man, then what do you have to complain about?  You have it pretty darn good, if you ask me.

Response:

Try building an order entry system for a large telco with a unionized work force. The union threatens to sue the company over the fonts and says the system is too easy to use, thereby threatening the jobs of the current call center workers because they "could" "conceivalby" be replaced by lower paid workers who don’t require the *13 weeks* of training that the old sytem required. This was a few jobs ago On a positive note, I get back-to-back to business trips to San Diego and Las Vegas. So hopefully I can break out of the Northern VA winter doldrums and get in five or six rounds of golf. Tim T – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval. "I had a better time fly fishing in Montana for 10 days than I had all year programming." — Jeff Connelly Try developing intranet portals for HR/Payroll departments in corporations all year.  They complain about the type and the color of fonts you used.  Oh, and "the background color for the menus is not pleasing to the eye".  I’d have a better time chewing on aluminum foil while staring at a wall for a week.  And at least you "program".  I feel more like a glorified website designer.

Response:

Maybe he should stop using the Momentus Training Club….

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval.

Response:

– "

— "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval. How much money did he earn snowboarding? Given his bank account, how much did he _need_ to earn? The statement was about having fun, not earning money.

I imagine most people would say they have more fun at play rather than work. I just don’t have much sympathy for him.  He’s playing golf for a living for God’s sake.  How much better can it get. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –                   Bruce E. Newman  *  Fredericton, NB, Canada               http://rec-sport-golf.com/members/?rollcall=newmanb      info at benewman dot bizland dot com   *   http://go.to/bruce_newman

Response:

Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval. "I had a better time fly fishing in Montana for 10 days than I had all year programming." — Jeff Connelly

Try developing intranet portals for HR/Payroll departments in corporations all year.  They complain about the type and the color of fonts you used.  Oh, and "the background color for the menus is not pleasing to the eye".  I’d have a better time chewing on aluminum foil while staring at a wall for a week.  And at least you "program".  I feel more like a glorified website designer.

Response:

"I had a better time fly fishing in Montana for 10 days than I had all year programming." — Jeff Connelly

Sorry Jeff, but now heaven will be a let down. Cheers, Mike

Response:

says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The trick is to have fun _and_ earn money.  At the GHO last summer, I followed Duval’s group for a while.  He was laboring his way through the round, looking like he was having a miserable time out there on his way to missing the cut.  It was a depressing sight.  Contrast that with Fred Funk, who was seen several times on TV last season, having fun, playing well, and making plenty of money.  That’s the way to go. Does good play lead to a positive attitude, or vice versa?  That conundrum is one of the things that makes golf such a great game. I agree – but Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods don’t appear to be at the top of the "having fun" scale while playing.

Appearances can be deceiving… Both Jack and Tiger really enjoy what they’re doing… The fact that they’re quieter or more reserved than other competitors doesn’t mean aren’t having fun. — Cheers- Jeff Setaro http://people.mags.net/jasetaro/ PGP Key IDs DH/DSS: 0×5D41429D RSA: 0×599D2A99 New RSA: 0xA19EBD34

Response:

I agree – but Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods don’t appear to be at the top of the "having fun" scale while playing. Appearances can be deceiving… Both Jack and Tiger really enjoy what they’re doing… The fact that they’re quieter or more reserved than other competitors doesn’t mean aren’t having fun.

Although Jack has admitted to not enjoying the game as much as his competitors back in his younger days. Still, as a spectator, I enjoy watching performers who seem to be enjoying themselves.  This applies at all levels, ages; in sports, and other show biz.

Response:

The trick is to have fun _and_ earn money.  At the GHO last summer, I followed Duval’s group for a while.  He was laboring his way through the round, looking like he was having a miserable time out there on his way to missing the cut.  It was a depressing sight.  Contrast that with Fred Funk, who was seen several times on TV last season, having fun, playing well, and making plenty of money.  That’s the way to go. Does good play lead to a positive attitude, or vice versa?  That conundrum is one of the things that makes golf such a great game.

I agree – but Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods don’t appear to be at the top of the "having fun" scale while playing.

Response:

— "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval. How much money did he earn snowboarding? Given his bank account, how much did he _need_ to earn? The statement was about having fun, not earning money.

The trick is to have fun _and_ earn money.  At the GHO last summer, I followed Duval’s group for a while.  He was laboring his way through the round, looking like he was having a miserable time out there on his way to missing the cut.  It was a depressing sight.  Contrast that with Fred Funk, who was seen several times on TV last season, having fun, playing well, and making plenty of money.  That’s the way to go. Does good play lead to a positive attitude, or vice versa?  That conundrum is one of the things that makes golf such a great game.   – cja

Response:

Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval. "I had a better time fly fishing in Montana for 10 days than I had all year programming." — Jeff Connelly

Ah, but what if they paid your to fly fish? You might loose your enthusiasm for it.  (p.s. I don’t know who *they* are or I’d have that job already)

Response:

Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval.

"I had a better time fly fishing in Montana for 10 days than I had all year programming." — Jeff Connelly

Response:

Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval.

Response:

Final word "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval.

I think he said pretty much the same thing last year. Probably explains his season. — Dan Driscoll Charter Member Super Secret Sinister Golf Society (SSSGS)

Response:

–   "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval.

How much money did he earn snowboarding?

Response:

— "I had a better time snowboarding in two weeks than I had all year playing golf." — David Duval. How much money did he earn snowboarding?

Given his bank account, how much did he _need_ to earn? The statement was about having fun, not earning money. Bruce                   Bruce E. Newman  *  Fredericton, NB, Canada                                 http://rec-sport-golf.com/members/?rollcall=newmanb      info at benewman dot bizland dot com   *   http://go.to/bruce_newman

Response:

Question:

Jeff,   Just so I have the details correctly: 1 dry and 1 wet caddis, in orange. Size can be anything the tyer wishes?                               Tom

Response:

Jeff,   Just so I have the details correctly: 1 dry and 1 wet caddis, in orange. Size can be anything the tyer wishes?                               Tom

okay.  see how agreeable i am… jeff (btw, yer now on the rules committee)

Response:

jeff writes: btw, yer now on the rules committee

man, this place is getting like my workplace! People calling me dumbo and maggot, now the committees!  AARRRGH!                                  Tom now, about that matter of defining "orange"

Response:

Tom writes: now, about that matter of defining "orange"

Yes.  And perhaps a recipe….. Dave

Response:

Dave writes: Yes.  And perhaps a recipe…..

no, that would take all of the creativity out of it.                          Tom

Response:

Tom writes: Dave writes: Yes.  And perhaps a recipe….. no, that would take all of the creativity out of it.

Aha!  I see….. heh, heh, heh.

Response:

So can i go buy some caddis and spay paint them orange ???Are these going to be distrubited to all entries into the rodeo ? Also bareback or saddle broncs? And i would imagine there will be alot of bull there also.                    Handyman Mike           Standing in a river waving a stick

Response:

jeff writes: btw, yer now on the rules committee man, this place is getting like my workplace! People calling me dumbo and maggot, now the committees!  AARRRGH!                                  Tom now, about that matter of defining "orange"

If you’re tying Jeffies flies, I think you should be *real* creative.

Response:

Stan writes: If you’re tying Jeffies flies, I think you should be *real* creative.

well, shoot! Within a minute or two after scrambling down the bank, they will all be wet flies anyway!                                 Tom p.s. I am tying flies for myownself, thanks!

Response:

Stan writes: If you’re tying Jeffies flies, I think you should be *real* creative.

hmmm… may i suggest a bunch of orange thread and deerhair on a bottle opener? i lose bottle openers some kinda bad. p.s. I am tying flies for myownself, thanks!

kinda kills the swap idea then don’t it? jeff

Response:

Jeff writes: p.s. I am tying flies for myownself, thanks! kinda kills the swap idea then don’t it?

sorry if you misunderstood, I just wasn’t tying "proxy" flies for others. However, can someone clear up this confusion? Are we having a swap or also a one-fly angling contest at Blue Rock Hole? Ignorant little shit which I am, I am starting to get murky on the details.                                  Tom

Response:

Jeff writes: p.s. I am tying flies for myownself, thanks! kinda kills the swap idea then don’t it? sorry if you misunderstood, I just wasn’t tying "proxy" flies for others. However, can someone clear up this confusion? Are we having a swap or also a one-fly angling contest at Blue Rock Hole? Ignorant little shit which I am, I am starting to get murky on the details.                                  Tom

sorry about the murky details – it’s residue from the anticlave thing. anyway, yer the rules committee, so issue a ruling.  i thought we were tying, swapping, and then fishing the swaps (orange caddis only) at the axelrad rodeo at the blue rock hole. jeff

Response:

jeff clarifies: orry about the murky details – it’s residue from the anticlave thing. anyway, yer the rules committee, so issue a ruling.  i thought we were tying, swapping, and then fishing the swaps (orange caddis only) at the axelrad rodeo at the blue rock hole.

Wow, is this stuff complicated!  I mean, I invited you damned confeder….er, I mean Southerners up here, and now we have this convoluted mess!  Good Lord!  I say we tie them, swap them and then all go and get drunk after we drop them in the woods someplace whilst trying to sort them into boxes. Pretty much what is going to happen anyway, I figure. Alright, I will go along with your version, but don’t say I didn’t warn you, this is going to get Ugly. Good of you to take care of those tshirts for me.                                     Tom

Response:

Hearing about this rodeo, I couldn’t resist… Two cowboys are out on the range talking about their favorite sex positions. One says, "I think I enjoy the rodeo position the best." "I don’t think I have ever heard of that one," says the other cowboy. "What is it?" "Well, it’s where you get your wife down on all fours and you mount her from behind. Then you reach around and cup each one  of her  breasts in your hands and whisper in her ear, ‘Boy, these feel just like your sister’s.’ Then you try and hold on for 8 seconds." – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well alrighty then… here it is.  Participants must tie one dry and one wet/nymph.  Only those attending the Penns clave can join the swap, but, you can have a surrogate (only one) tie your flies for you to be sent to me (only way wayno and pj could participate).  So, sign up, name your seconds (the one whats gonna tie your flies) and send them to me. I’ll send my snail mail address to those participating. Now, before anybody else makes the solicitation, I need a surrogate to tie my flies – with full attribution to you, of course!  Wolfgang, Mike Connor, rw, willi (if you aren’t attending), warren (if you aren’t attending), daytripper, petah c, somebody…i know one of you guys (or girls?) will be happy to help me out <G. Those who sign up and who attend the Penns clave automatically will be entered as participants in the 1st Annual Axelrad Memorial Bizarre Fly Rodeo at the Blue Rock Hole.  You will be allowed to use only orange caddis – dry and/or wet/nymph – for the duration of the rodeo at the Blue Rock Hole.  Further details will be announced by the Board of Directors, once we figure out who the hell they are gonna be. jeff

Response:

(SPLORK VANG MU!) I’ll try to remember that one Jeff.  Good one. bruce h

Response:

Well alrighty then… here it is.  Participants must tie one dry and one wet/nymph.  Only those attending the Penns clave can join the swap, but, you can have a surrogate (only one) tie your flies for you to be sent to me (only way wayno and pj could participate).  So, sign up, name your seconds (the one whats gonna tie your flies) and send them to me. I’ll send my snail mail address to those participating. Now, before anybody else makes the solicitation, I need a surrogate to tie my flies – with full attribution to you, of course!  Wolfgang, Mike Connor, rw, willi (if you aren’t attending), warren (if you aren’t attending), daytripper, petah c, somebody…i know one of you guys (or girls?) will be happy to help me out <G. Those who sign up and who attend the Penns clave automatically will be entered as participants in the 1st Annual Axelrad Memorial Bizarre Fly Rodeo at the Blue Rock Hole.  You will be allowed to use only orange caddis – dry and/or wet/nymph – for the duration of the rodeo at the Blue Rock Hole.  Further details will be announced by the Board of Directors, once we figure out who the hell they are gonna be. jeff

Response:

Question:

Hi All, September kicks off the Fall season in a few fisheries. The Pit River has the Isonychia mayfly hatch in September and is the best trout stream fishing in California. The Klamath River has a good run of Halfpounder Steelhead in September too. Either of these fisheries could be great places for a Clave. Not much else gets going till October which is one of the top months of the year. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone interested in a Norhtern California Clave in early September? Drop me a line, Dustin Rocksvold

Response:

Keep me up to date… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone interested in a Norhtern California Clave in early September? Drop me a line, Dustin Rocksvold

Response:

Anyone interested in a Norhtern California Clave in early September? Drop me a line, Dustin Rocksvold

Response:

Anyone interested in a Norhtern California Clave in early September?

All depends on whether or not I switch jobs.  That’s the begining of the school year so I won’t be able to get someone to teach for me.  But NorCal is close enough that I might be able to show up for the weekend. Mu

Response:

Question:

I didn’t see your original post so I don’tknow what your original questions were but I am pretty sure I can help you. — Capt Gordon Churchill http://www.flyfish-nc.com Guided flyfishing on the Roanoke River and the Crystal Coast of NC out of Atlantic Beach/Morhead City/Beaufort.

Response:

THanks for the reply. My wife and I are coming to Harkers Island in late October for 2 days of Albie fishing with Sarah Gardner. We plan to come a day early and spend a day seeing the sights, fishing from shore, visiting tackle shops, etc. My question was asking about places to fish, sights to see, and generally what to do in the area. We have a 4×4. Any info will be terrific! Peter G. Aitken I didn’t see your original post so I don’tknow what your original questions were but I am pretty sure I can help you. — Capt Gordon Churchill http://www.flyfish-nc.com Guided flyfishing on the Roanoke River and the Crystal Coast of NC out of

Atlantic Beach/Morhead City/Beaufort.

Response:

Thanks so much, Tony. We are heading down on Oct 23 so we still have time to plan. Any other info you can send will be terrific. Peter

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Peter, I go to Harker’s Island every November for the ‘albert fishing and can offer some suggestions. 1. Places to eat: I always try the locally owned establishments. The Crab’s Claw and Sanitary Fish Market immediately come to mind. 2. All of the Core Banks is open to 4 wheel drive traffic, though you will have take one of the private commerical ferries over. I believe it cost me $120 for the vehicle and 2 people (round trip). Also there are a couple of services that will take you via boat to Core Banks (and I believe Shackleford Banks, wild horses on this one), for a small fee, maybe $25 or so. I know that one operates out of Harkers Island Marina.  This would allow you to walk the beaches, fish and  then be picked up in the afternoon. And I think the Park Service may operate one as well. I would also suggest you contact the guide or charter service you will be using, I’m sure they can provide you all of the information you need. I may be able to locate some of the info I originally dug up a few years ago when I started going there, if so I’ll let you know. Tony Minnick

Response:

My wife and I will be doing a couple of days of charter fishing at Harker’s Island in late October. We have never been there and have some questions. 1. Recommendations on places to stay – or to avoid. 2. Restaurants. 3. We are considering going a day early to see the sights and do some from-the-shore fishing. What possibilities exist for this kind of fishing (either fly or surf casting)? Are there beaches that are open to trucks? Any and all information welcomed. THanks, Peter G. Aitken

Response:

Check with Gordon Churchill at  http://www.flyfish-nc.com. Tom — Tom Brown Wake Forest, NC When trouble arises and things look bad, there is always one individual who perceives a solution and is willing to take command.  Very often, that person is crazy.                                    …..Dave Barry – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My wife and I will be doing a couple of days of charter fishing at Harker’s Island in late October. We have never been there and have some questions. 1. Recommendations on places to stay – or to avoid. 2. Restaurants. 3. We are considering going a day early to see the sights and do some from-the-shore fishing. What possibilities exist for this kind of fishing (either fly or surf casting)? Are there beaches that are open to trucks? Any and all information welcomed. THanks, Peter G. Aitken

Response:

Peter, I go to Harker’s Island every November for the ‘albert fishing and can offer some suggestions. 1. Places to eat: I always try the locally owned establishments. The Crab’s Claw and Sanitary Fish Market immediately come to mind. 2. All of the Core Banks is open to 4 wheel drive traffic, though you will have take one of the private commerical ferries over. I believe it cost me $120 for the vehicle and 2 people (round trip). Also there are a couple of services that will take you via boat to Core Banks (and I believe Shackleford Banks, wild horses on this one), for a small fee, maybe $25 or so. I know that one operates out of Harkers Island Marina.  This would allow you to walk the beaches,  fish and  then be picked up in the afternoon. And I think the Park Service may operate one as well. I would also suggest you contact the guide or charter service you will be using, I’m sure they can provide you all of the information you need. I may be able to locate some of the info I originally dug up a few years ago when I started going there, if so I’ll let you know. Tony Minnick

Response:

Question:

Uh-Oh…I think someone just turned on the heater it’s starting to get hot in here….. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – To all sponsoring and/or midwiving the BASTARD: The news surrounding the birth of the BASTARD is nothing short of fantastic. As a fan of split-cane rods, I salute these efforts and think everyone should have the chance to own and fish a properly tooled and crafted cane rod.  So what about the BASTARD?  Does anyone out there really think that a split-cane rod can be produced for $300???!!!  HELLO?!  ARE WE ALL THAT DELUDED??!!?? Cane hex blanks alone wholesale for over $200 and quadrates are double that. But the BASTARDS will be made from cheap cane in a no-nonsense fashion, as if a BLANK has any nonsense. Cheap cane is cheap because it is covered either with water marks or grower’s marks.  I know, I know…the BASTARD aesthetic is not concerned with aesthetics.  But grower’s marks typically go through the enamel and sever the power bundles.  Yes, this effects casting, noticeably.  Really.  Cane costs could be reduced by making one-tip rods, but that cuts the life of the BASTARD in half. What about the tapers?  Initially, it would be easy enough to sell only one taper/length in each line weight; there are plenty of tapers out on the web. But soon customers won’t be so patient.  You’ll need more.  That means taking the time to reset you planing forms and triple-check the depth.  Then you’ll have to test out guide spacing on each different taper.  Time, time. What about tooling?  To put up with the rigors of production, you’ll have to get decent tooling.  Your cheapest tools will be your planing forms (~$800 for one that will last) and planes (at least four; as much as you want them to be, but don’t skimp on the blades).  Don’t forget your beveler and binder which together go for the price of a year’s tuition at an Ivy-league school.  A good depth guage is a car payment.  And don’t forget your wrapper, whipping thread, sock, tube…  To keep costs down I guess you don’t have to worry about the finish, just use tung-oil.  Then you don’t need varnish, dip-tanks, color-preserver, or any of that.  But tung-oil rods *often* won’t last a half of a decade. What about hardware?  Snakes and tip-tops are no big deal, but forget about the agate (or even agatine) stripper.  If you find a good agate stripper for less than $30, then you haven’t found agate. (Doesn’t sound like much, but that’s already 10% of your rod.)  To keep costs down, what’s wrong with SiC? Hook-keepers?  Anyone who’s read Garrison knows that American cane rod-makers don’t use hook-keepers.  It’s called a stripping guide. Yup.  Saved money there.  Reel seats?  Forget fancy, how about alder?  Don’t even get me started on ferrules. If you can somehow get all the above costs diffused through an enormous production run so that they retail for under $500, you still haven’t paid you labor.  Even if it’s a labor force of one, Mr. G, he’ll need to eat once in a while.  Hobbyists can finish a cane rod in about 40-50 man-hours.  Custom rods from the 30 or so who make cane rods for a living (full-time) take about 80-100 man-hours.  These folks probably want to charge a little more than minimum wage. There are reasons that cane rods cost as much as they do, and there are reasons that the many attempts to produce low-cost cane rods in the last 30 years have failed.  What you get in a properly made and well-crafted cane rod is not only a superior fishing instrument, but a piece of American history. The cane-rod industry is one of the last in this country that consists of independent artisans who apprentice under masters and continue to improve upon the tradition.  If you read up on the history of cane-rods you’ll notice that even though split-cane and greenheart originated in the UK, the modern tradition of split-cane rods is American and any reputable rod-maker can trace his apprenticeship back to a 19th century master.  Yes, they still cost a lot, but if you ever talk to a full-time rod-maker (at the FFF or somewhere) you’ll see that no one gets rich making rods, they do because they love it. And finally…Is there a real difference between cane and graphite or glass? Well, is there a difference between an Aston-Martin and a Geo?  or is there a difference between Night Train and the Famous Grouse?  Both cars will get you where you want to go and both drinks will eventually get you drunk, but I guess it depends on how you want to get there.  Maybe a better analogy is shaving with garden-shears or a straight razor.  One is clumsy and potentially painful and the other, with a little practice, is an instrument of precision and tradition that is a pleasure to use and surpasses all. If you decide to get a split-cane rod, get the right one for the right reasons.  Don’t get any old BASTARD because it is cheap.  Perhaps the BASTARD will be the rod that will change the ff-ing world.  Perhaps not.  But at least talk to a cane rod-maker (check out the cane Rodmakers page at http://home1.gte.net/jfoster/index.htm) to see what kind of rod they can make you and what their rods can do over a production rod. Oh, but I doubt any of of those rodmakers would be able to seel you a Marryat reel.  Tough luck. The Tonkin Kid

Response:

To all sponsoring and/or midwiving the BASTARD:

and George began his reply: ______ That is me, "tonkin kid".  Talk to me.  I’m the man.  I’m the uno numeruno Bastard you need to address yourself too.  Now then?  You were saying?

(remainder of repartee snipped, in my never-ceasing attempt to save band-width) Go get’em George.  We can’t have these blithering naysayers ruining our fun. Mark Faulkner

Response:

‘kid,’ is licking his wounds.  He will heal though and will come back to try to learn  more about us. O.G.O

Response:

Tonkin Kid, I think you should change your name to "The Foolium Kid". 1. Do you know what the price of a bundle of Tonkin cane is. 2. Do you know the average number of good culms in a bundle of Tonkin cane? 3. Do you know how many rods with extra tips can be built with one culm? 4. Do you know how many strips a man using power tools can plain in a day? 5. Do you know how many blanks one man can finish in a day? 4. Do you know what the mark up is on a bamboo rod? I don’t know where you buy your hardware and materials but you won’t ever find me there.  I have seen figures just like yours trying to justify the cost of graphite rods also, but you should peddle your foolium elsewhere, I am not in the market. Ernie Harrison

Response:

To all sponsoring and/or midwiving the BASTARD: The news surrounding the birth of the BASTARD is nothing short of fantastic. As a fan of split-cane rods, I salute these efforts and think everyone should have the chance to own and fish a properly tooled and crafted cane rod.  So what about the BASTARD?  Does anyone out there really think that a split-cane rod can be produced for $300???!!!  HELLO?!  ARE WE ALL THAT DELUDED??!!?? Cane hex blanks alone wholesale for over $200 and quadrates are double that. But the BASTARDS will be made from cheap cane in a no-nonsense fashion, as if a BLANK has any nonsense.   Cheap cane is cheap because it is covered either with water marks or grower’s marks.  I know, I know…the BASTARD aesthetic is not concerned with aesthetics.  But grower’s marks typically go through the enamel and sever the power bundles.  Yes, this effects casting, noticeably.  Really.  Cane costs could be reduced by making one-tip rods, but that cuts the life of the BASTARD in half. What about the tapers?  Initially, it would be easy enough to sell only one taper/length in each line weight; there are plenty of tapers out on the web. But soon customers won’t be so patient.  You’ll need more.  That means taking the time to reset you planing forms and triple-check the depth.  Then you’ll have to test out guide spacing on each different taper.  Time, time. What about tooling?  To put up with the rigors of production, you’ll have to get decent tooling.  Your cheapest tools will be your planing forms (~$800 for one that will last) and planes (at least four; as much as you want them to be, but don’t skimp on the blades).  Don’t forget your beveler and binder which together go for the price of a year’s tuition at an Ivy-league school.  A good depth guage is a car payment.  And don’t forget your wrapper, whipping thread, sock, tube…  To keep costs down I guess you don’t have to worry about the finish, just use tung-oil.  Then you don’t need varnish, dip-tanks, color-preserver, or any of that.  But tung-oil rods *often* won’t last a half of a decade. What about hardware?  Snakes and tip-tops are no big deal, but forget about the agate (or even agatine) stripper.  If you find a good agate stripper for less than $30, then you haven’t found agate. (Doesn’t sound like much, but that’s already 10% of your rod.)  To keep costs down, what’s wrong with SiC? Hook-keepers?  Anyone who’s read Garrison knows that American cane rod-makers don’t use hook-keepers.  It’s called a stripping guide. Yup.  Saved money there.  Reel seats?  Forget fancy, how about alder?  Don’t even get me started on ferrules. If you can somehow get all the above costs diffused through an enormous production run so that they retail for under $500, you still haven’t paid you labor.  Even if it’s a labor force of one, Mr. G, he’ll need to eat once in a while.  Hobbyists can finish a cane rod in about 40-50 man-hours.  Custom rods from the 30 or so who make cane rods for a living (full-time) take about 80-100 man-hours.  These folks probably want to charge a little more than minimum wage. There are reasons that cane rods cost as much as they do, and there are reasons that the many attempts to produce low-cost cane rods in the last 30 years have failed.  What you get in a properly made and well-crafted cane rod is not only a superior fishing instrument, but a piece of American history. The cane-rod industry is one of the last in this country that consists of independent artisans who apprentice under masters and continue to improve upon the tradition.  If you read up on the history of cane-rods you’ll notice that even though split-cane and greenheart originated in the UK, the modern tradition of split-cane rods is American and any reputable rod-maker can trace his apprenticeship back to a 19th century master.  Yes, they still cost a lot, but if you ever talk to a full-time rod-maker (at the FFF or somewhere) you’ll see that no one gets rich making rods, they do because they love it. And finally…Is there a real difference between cane and graphite or glass? Well, is there a difference between an Aston-Martin and a Geo?  or is there a difference between Night Train and the Famous Grouse?  Both cars will get you where you want to go and both drinks will eventually get you drunk, but I guess it depends on how you want to get there.  Maybe a better analogy is shaving with garden-shears or a straight razor.  One is clumsy and potentially painful and the other, with a little practice, is an instrument of precision and tradition that is a pleasure to use and surpasses all. If you decide to get a split-cane rod, get the right one for the right reasons.  Don’t get any old BASTARD because it is cheap.  Perhaps the BASTARD will be the rod that will change the ff-ing world.  Perhaps not.  But at least talk to a cane rod-maker (check out the cane Rodmakers page at http://home1.gte.net/jfoster/index.htm) to see what kind of rod they can make you and what their rods can do over a production rod. Oh, but I doubt any of of those rodmakers would be able to seel you a Marryat reel.  Tough luck.   The Tonkin Kid

Response:

To all sponsoring and/or midwiving the BASTARD:

______ That is me, "tonkin kid".  Talk to me.  I’m the man.  I’m the uno numeruno Bastard you need to address yourself too.  Now then?  You were saying? Oh?  By the way – Refer to me from now on as "O.G.O." The news surrounding the birth of the BASTARD is nothing short of fantastic.

As a fan of split-cane rods, I salute these efforts and think everyone should have the chance to own and fish a properly tooled and crafted cane rod.  So what about the BASTARD?

dense quality Imported Just For this bastard. Does anyone out there really think that a split-cane rod can be produced for $300???!!!

HELLO?!  ARE WE ALL THAT DELUDED??!!??

Cane hex blanks alone wholesale for over $200 and quadrates are double that.

But the BASTARDS will be made from cheap cane in a no-nonsense fashion, as if a BLANK has any nonsense.

more careful on who you’re talking too here ‘tonkin kid’.  Is that it?  "Tonkin Kid?"  Are you saying you have the market cornered on cheap bamboo?  Sorry.  We don’t want any. Cheap cane is cheap because it is covered either with water marks or grower’s marks.  I know, I know…the BASTARD aesthetic is not concerned with aesthetics.

BASTARD BAMBOO FLY ROD.  This fly fishing world is ready for a Beautiful Bastard – and this is it.  In fact, you’re beginning to qualify for one. But grower’s marks typically go through the enamel and sever the power bundles.  Yes, this effects casting, noticeably.  Really.  Cane costs could be reduced by making one-tip rods, but that cuts the life of the BASTARD in half.

equate your kind of foolishness with a high quality BASTARD FLY ROD.  "Don’t Tread On Me Dude"  Just might become a Bastard Model.  Thank goodness, nothing you’ve said so far applies to a BASTARD FLY ROD.  "Half Life," looks more promising to the "tonkin kid," buddy.  Where do you get off making such outlandish statements and lies?  Do you work for Bill Clinton? What about the tapers?

Initially, it would be easy enough to sell only one taper/length in each line weight; there are plenty of tapers out on the web.

But soon customers won’t be so patient.

You’ll need more.  That means taking the time to reset you planing forms and triple-check the depth.  Then you’ll have to test out guide spacing on each different taper.  Time, time.

BASTARD BAMBOO FLY ROD.  Like I said.  I’m rich. What about tooling?  To put up with the rigors of production, you’ll have to get decent tooling.

tooling is the best in the world.  Do you want to come and work for me? Your cheapest tools will be your planing forms (~$800 for one that will last) and planes (at least four; as much as you want them to be, but don’t skimp on the blades).  Don’t forget your beveler and binder which together go for the price of a year’s tuition at an Ivy-league school.  A good depth guage is a car payment.  And don’t forget your wrapper, whipping thread, sock, tube…  To keep costs down I guess you don’t have to worry about the finish, just use tung-oil.  Then you don’t need varnish, dip-tanks, color-preserver, or any of that.  But tung-oil rods *often* won’t last a half of a decade.

shop.  Everything is free except raw materials.  You need to get your planing forms from someone that doesn’t screw you all the time, kid.  It was "kid" – right? What about hardware?  Snakes and tip-tops are no big deal, but forget about the agate (or even agatine) stripper.  If you find a good agate stripper for less than $30, then you haven’t found agate. (Doesn’t sound like much, but that’s already 10% of your rod.)  To keep costs down, what’s wrong with SiC? Hook-keepers?  Anyone who’s read Garrison knows that American cane rod-makers don’t use hook-keepers.  It’s called a stripping guide. Yup.  Saved money there.  Reel seats?  Forget fancy, how about alder?  Don’t even get me started on ferrules.

have too but, I will admit I’d rather just buy them ready made.  You’re down to nickle/dime stuff.  Hardware.  No mystery in hardware.  If we can’t buy it at a price that is fair, we will make it right here. Kid, you just don’t know what the hell  you’re talking about.  If we can build it cheaper, guess what the choice is going to be? If you can somehow get all the above costs diffused through an enormous production run so that they retail for under $500, you still haven’t paid you labor.  Even if it’s a labor force of one, Mr. G, he’ll need to eat once in a while.  Hobbyists can finish a cane rod in about 40-50 man-hours.  Custom rods from the 30 or so who make cane rods for a living (full-time) take about 80-100 man-hours.  These folks probably want to charge a little more than minimum wage.

person operation.  Automation on as much as is possible is guaranteed.  Those ‘full time’ rod makers have to cut the vacations and coffee breaks pal. I just love it when all these losers keep equating how others should run their businesses.  Has anyone latched onto that yet?  "Welllllllll?"  They think.  If it takes ME 100 hours to make a bamboo fly rod, that means its going to take you 100 hours too." wrong! There are reasons that cane rods cost as much as they do, and there are reasons that the many attempts to produce low-cost cane rods in the last 30 years have failed.  What you get in a properly made and well-crafted cane rod is not only a superior fishing instrument, but a piece of American history. The cane-rod industry is one of the last in this country that consists of independent artisans who apprentice under masters and continue to improve upon the tradition.  If you read up on the history of cane-rods you’ll notice that even though split-cane and greenheart originated in the UK, the modern tradition of split-cane rods is American and any reputable rod-maker can trace his apprenticeship back to a 19th century master.  Yes, they still cost a lot, but if you ever talk to a full-time rod-maker (at the FFF or somewhere) you’ll see that no one gets rich making rods, they do because they love it.

BASTARDS. And finally…Is there a real difference between cane and graphite or glass?

_______Well, gee?  I don’t know?  Is there a difference between land and water? The moon and the sun?  Your wife as compared to mine?  Golfing in the middle of a street and a fairway?  You tell us kid.  This is a heavy question. Well, is there a difference between an Aston-Martin and a Geo?  or is there a difference between Night Train and the Famous Grouse?  Both cars will get you where you want to go and both drinks will eventually get you drunk, but I guess it depends on how you want to get there.  Maybe a better analogy is shaving with garden-shears or a straight razor.  One is clumsy and potentially painful and the other, with a little practice, is an instrument of precision and tradition that is a pleasure to use and surpasses all.

qualified.  Park it dude.  Your engine is racing but your tires are standing still.  All this has NOTHING to do with   BASTARD FLY RODS.  You have not one, single, base point to stand on.  You are just (to be perfectly frank) a baseless opinion.  A noise.  A silent fart in church.  You are way off base on nearly everything.  But!  That is okay.  We get them like you here all the time.  We just need to soften you up a little and get you drunk a time or two.  We might even teach you how to be a success.  Here, anything is possible.  Even for you kid. If you decide to get a split-cane rod, get the right one for the right reasons.  Don’t get any old BASTARD because it is cheap.

pine tree all the time?  Just LISTEN to yourself!  Quote:  "Don’t get any old BASTARD because it is cheap."  Well, there are no other BASTARDS and these are not old.  Right away, you make yourself out an idiot of principle, ‘kid’. This also isn’t ANY old BASTARD.  That is another mistake.  It is my BASTARD FLY ROD COMPANY and you have NO RIGHT to say or ASSUME the things you’re doing here . . . kid. (God, I love this place!) Perhaps the BASTARD

‘hope’ for ‘the kid.’  What do you guys think?  Is he or is not ‘the kid’ qualifying as a real bastard who should own a bastard? will be the rod that will change the ff-ing world.

life.  How do we know?  Because you’re HERE!  It is everyone’s pleasure to meet a cynic such as  yourself.  You

… read more »

Response:

Question:

I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Thanks for any help. Simon

Response:

I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Thanks for any help. Simon

Check out the St Croix Imperial 4 pc 5/6 or 6/7. Either one will set you back $150 and well worth the price. Frank Church Elkhart, IN

Response:

Yes.   Check out Fenwick.  I own a FF756-4 that’s 4 piece glass 6 weight.  Comes with a nice bag and case for $100.  but you might think about the GFS70ML-4 HMG graphite spin-fly rod at $115. Buena suerte, Lou Lampe

Response:

Simon, I bought an 8wt from http://www.brazosflyfishers.com/ Lauren and her husband were wonderful at helping i the selection.  I highly recommend these nice folks. Cheers, Mitch – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Thanks for any help. Simon

Response:

What ever you decide, may I suggest that you cast the rod before buying. Having been at this game for 60 plus years, I still think that the biggest mistake that people make is buying by brand name rather than choosing the rod that complements their casting style. Best of luck. J.

Response:

I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Thanks for any help. Simon

Hi, Not all the Cortland CL 4 piece rods cast well. The 8′ #4/5 with a #5 and the 8′6" #4/5 with a #5 both are pretty good for $110 with an aluminum tube. You might also try the 8′6" #5/6 with a #6 line. The 9′ #5/6 and the 9′ #6/7 are both pretty ‘cluby’ or ‘boardy’. St. Croix has some pretty good 4 piece rods at around $150. They come in 9′#5/6 and 9′#6/7 in 4 piece with a Cordura covered plastic tube. If you can get up to the $200 to $300 range, Sage, Loomis, Scott and T&T have some real great casting 3 and 4 piece rods that are lighter than the Cortland, St. Croix or Redington. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY www.kiene.com

Response:

I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Thanks for any help. Simon

I recently bought a St. Croix Imperial 9′ 5/6 4pc rod and highly recommend it. It cost $150. Not sure how that compares to the price on the Cortland.

Response:

I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these?

Fsihed a demo Redington Red Start 5/6 wgt yesterday – a great rod for the $$$. Rod, reel, line, backing & leader, plus jazzy hard case that holds rod w/mounted reel only $199 (with lifetime guarantee). My regular rod is a Sage,  but I liked the Redington a lot. Try one! Kent Edmonds Flyfishing West Georgia & Beyond http://kje.home.mindspring.com

Response:

look at st croix. their imperial line has nice 4 pc rods for about $130. I’ve got a 4/5 which i like a lot, though it casts better as a 5 than a four. I’ve never had any problem taking it on planes either. gc – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Fsihed a demo Redington Red Start 5/6 wgt yesterday – a great rod for the $$$. Rod, reel, line, backing & leader, plus jazzy hard case that holds rod w/mounted reel only $199 (with lifetime guarantee). My regular rod is a Sage,  but I liked the Redington a lot. Try one! Kent Edmonds Flyfishing West Georgia & Beyond http://kje.home.mindspring.com

Response:

I own a Cortland and LOVE it . I have compared it to a Reddington and there is no comparison for the money,the Reddington is a cheap looking rod with the guides just tacked on , the cork looks bad , no winding check and so on . KW – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these? Fsihed a demo Redington Red Start 5/6 wgt yesterday – a great rod for the $$$. Rod, reel, line, backing & leader, plus jazzy hard case that holds rod w/mounted reel only $199 (with lifetime guarantee). My regular rod is a Sage,  but I liked the Redington a lot. Try one! Kent Edmonds Flyfishing West Georgia & Beyond http://kje.home.mindspring.com

Response:

I’m looking to buy an economical 4-piece 6 wt fly rod. Does anyone have recommendations? I see Cortland does one, the CL series. Does anyone have experience with these?

I recently was given a Redington 5wt 9′ and it is truly a great rod to work with light action and amazing to use.. it is like a divining rod in your hands learn to use it properly and you cannot go wrong plus the lifetime guarantee is another great part of the bargain, Pierre

Response:

look at st croix. their imperial line has nice 4 pc rods for about $130. I’ve got a 4/5 which i like a lot, though it casts better as a 5 than a four. I’ve never had any problem taking it on planes either.

I recently looked at both the Redington RedStart and the St. Croix Imperial in a 5/6 weight at the local fly shop.  Went in with St. Croix as my intended choice because my current rod is a St. Croix Pro Graphite (operating on the principle of "My mind is made up – stop confusing me with facts" .  The guy in the shop encouraged me to cast both of ‘em using the same line & reel.  Wound up getting the Redington.  I found the Imperial was softer than I’m comfortable with, or conversely that I just liked the feel of the RedStart better.  I recommend that you cast at least a couple different rods before you make your choice.  Even if the rod you find you like best costs 20 bucks more, well…20 bucks isn’t much to pay to be happy, and it’s not much to have in your pocket if you’re not happy.  Your mileage may vary. — Bob Jarvis Mail address hacked to foil spammers!

Response:

Question:

Bob, While not in the Akron area, I can give some advice re:  fly fishing in Ohio. Recommend you fish a stream in the tailwaters downstream from a dam.    Barring that, get in the middle of any rocky stream with riffles and fish the pools right up against the bank.  My fishing buddies and I are doing well with a 4 or 5 wt. rod with floating line.  We’re catching smallmouth bass, sunfish and crappie with size 6 or 8 surface pan poppers, Sneaky Pete’s and crickets.  I also have had some luck with a size 6 minnow streamer.  Best time is from sunup ’till late morning. Largemouth don’t appear to be at all active in this summer heat; you can try but I wouldn’t spend a lot of time on them.  It’s not Montana or Wyoming, but we’re having a lot of fun!  Forget the lakes; they’re for boat and bait fishing.  And contrary to what the shops tell you (remember, they sell bait), we fly flingers appear to be the only ones catching fish this summer!  The bait people aren’t doing so hot (unless you like catfish and carp), and people going for the big stuff are walking away empty handed.  Even a lot of the big, bad bass fishermen with their 4 quadrillion horsepower motors are docking their boats during July and August.  The only trout stream is the Mad River west of Columbus in the springtime and steelhead up by Lake Erie in the late Fall.  Good luck and good fishing. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On my way to ohio for a week 1 Aug, anyone know of any flyfishing to be done there?  I have made some phone calls and the shops all seem to say bring my spinning outfit, which I don’t want to do.  I will be around the Akron area but I will travel to get to a good spot.  Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Bob

Response:

On my way to ohio for a week 1 Aug, anyone know of any flyfishing to be done there?  I have made some phone calls and the shops all seem to say bring my spinning outfit, which I don’t want to do.  I will be around the Akron area but I will travel to get to a good spot.  Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Bob

Response:

If you mean fly-fishing for trout, check out the Clear Fork (south of Mansfield) of the Mad River (around Urbana).  You can find a good write-up of both on the Virtual Flyshop at http://www.flyshop.com/Centers/Midwest/7-98Mad/index.html : On my way to ohio for a week 1 Aug, anyone know of any flyfishing to be done : there?  I have made some phone calls and the shops all seem to say bring my : spinning outfit, which I don’t want to do.  I will be around the Akron area but : I will travel to get to a good spot.  Any info would be greatly appreciated. : Thanks Bob —                        http://members.tripod.com/~trunculo/index

Response:

Sorry to follow-up my own post, but I meant to say Clear Fork *or* Mad River. : If you mean fly-fishing for trout, check out the Clear Fork (south of : Mansfield) of the Mad River (around Urbana).  You can find a good              ^^ —                        http://members.tripod.com/~trunculo/index

Response:

The Mad river is said to be one of the finest trout rivers in the state, however it is a several hour drive to get to it. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On my way to ohio for a week 1 Aug, anyone know of any flyfishing to be done there?  I have made some phone calls and the shops all seem to say bring my spinning outfit, which I don’t want to do.  I will be around the Akron area but I will travel to get to a good spot.  Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Bob

Response:

On my way to ohio for a week 1 Aug, anyone know of any flyfishing to be done there?  I have made some phone calls and the shops all seem to say bring my spinning outfit, which I don’t want to do.  I will be around the Akron area but I will travel to get to a good spot.  Any info would be greatly

appreciated. For trout your best shot in the near-Akron area would be the Clear Fork of the Mohican, down around Mansfield.  I’d guess that’s about 50 miles from Akron, though, so it’d be a long haul. Lately the pond and small lake fishing hasn’t been too good.  Bluegills will still bite, but of course bluegills will *always* bite.  The water has warmed up and the largemouths have developed lockjaw, although you might get lucky.  Try some of the ponds in the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area north of Akron.  Stay OUT of the lower Cuyahoga River – too polluted to mess with. If you can get into the upper Cuyahoga (anywhere upstream of the dam in Cuyahoga Falls) you can probably do alright.  Best of luck. — Bob Jarvis Mail address hacked to foil spammers!

Response:

Question:

Hi I just planned a 5 day, 4 nite trip to Cancun.  I don’t have a lot of time there and I have heard about all the great things to do, but I’d like to hear from others about the top 3 or 4 excursions to take. E mail Thankx

Response:

Hi I just planned a 5 day, 4 nite trip to Cancun.  I don’t have a lot of time there and I have heard about all the great things to do, but I’d like to hear from others about the top 3 or 4 excursions to take. E mail Thankx

Hello, I have been there quite a few times and really enjoy it. There is something for everyone. I would try to spend a day on Cozumel and/or Isla Mujeres, small island just off shore. Take an all day air conditioned bus tour south to the ruins at Tulum. There are lots of water sports, boating, snorkeling, scuba, fishing and yes, lots of shopping. We specialize in fly fishing trips all over the world and this is on of our favorite places. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY

Response:

Hi I just planned a 5 day, 4 nite trip to Cancun.  I don’t have a lot of time there and I have heard about all the great things to do, but I’d like to hear from others about the top 3 or 4 excursions to take. E mail Thankx

Isla Mujeres and/or Cozumel are nice excursions.  Tulum and Xel Ha are usually packaged together as a single tour and are also interesting. Xel Ha is a place where you can snorkel in a big natural aquarium (a giant pool carved out of the rock by a river) with mixed fresh and salt water and lots of beautiful fish.  It would probably be a bit lame to experienced divers, but if you haven’t seen tropical fish close up before it’s an easy way to do it..  I would hesitate to go inland to the big ruins a Chichen Iza (spelling?).  This time of year can be murderously hot.  When I was in Cancun in May, the people who went inland to that trip felt like they would barely make it out alive – they were burnt through their shirts, probably just from the heat of the sun.  Stick to the coastal areas. I haven’t done it myself, but I know two friends who recently took an excursion where you travel through underground rivers.  They both enjoyed it tremendously.  I would put this at the top of the list. Sorry I don’t have more details. Christine

Response:

Any favorite places to eat either in Cancun or Isla Mujeres? I’d appreciate any info.           Sue

Response:

Question:

Ole Ralph Garlalnd used to say, You never go fishing for striped bass untill the "Shad Bush" is in full bloom. Shad bush, (Forsythia), blooms in early spring, bright yellow blossoms!

Response:

Sorry, forgot to say: check out my web page for some pics of the beasts weve caught in the past: www.nh.ultranet.com/~mikec/mikec – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area. I don’ know about NH, but the stripers are almost always running at the mouth of the Merrimack River by the first week in May. But, judging by reports I’ve already heard of schoolies hitting in Rhode Island, I think it’s going to be an early year. Get your rods ready, it won’t be long now… -bd

Response:

Ive heard of divers seeing big cows just laying on the bottom during the winter months, I can imagine if you could stand the cold and drop a bait right in front of their big puss, one could catch them all year. (piscataqua river) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area. I don’ know about NH, but the stripers are almost always running at the mouth of the Merrimack River by the first week in May. But, judging by reports I’ve already heard of schoolies hitting in Rhode Island, I think it’s going to be an early year. Get your rods ready, it won’t be long now… -bd

Response:

Would that be the phorthisia (spelling) bush? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Ole Ralph Garlalnd used to say, You never go fishing for striped bass untill the "Shad Bush" is in full bloom. Shad bush, (Forsythia), blooms in early spring, bright yellow blossoms!

Response:

Ayuh, those ah nice bass. New Hampsha, Eh? Why’ve I been drivin’ down the Cape?

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Ive heard of divers seeing big cows just laying on the bottom during the winter months, I can imagine if you could stand the cold and drop a bait right in front of their big puss, one could catch them all year. (piscataqua river) Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area. I don’ know about NH, but the stripers are almost always running at the mouth of the Merrimack River by the first week in May. But, judging by reports I’ve already heard of schoolies hitting in Rhode Island, I think it’s going to be an early year. Get your rods ready, it won’t be long now… -bd

I’ve heard a good early spot is out by Adams Point near the lab. Plan on going there in the next week or so if the weather gets nice.                                                                 jc

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Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area.

Over the past several (6) years I’ve always got into them in the first 2 weeks of May at the trestle at the Hampton R. I was there about an hour ago, in fact. Been fishing it a little for the past few weeks, nothing doing right yet, though a small baitfish followed my fly in once :- Gotta take encouragement where ya find it ! Today was windier than it looked and colder than it looked, but it beats working through lunch….                                                         jc

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Ayuh, those ah nice bass. New Hampsha, Eh? Why’ve I been drivin’ down the Cape?

Probably to fish, then go to a bah and swill down some wicked pisssah bee_ahs with the boys from Sumuville ?

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John , keep us posted, too cold for me still…( think ive got bass in my basement, there enought water…) – mike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area. Over the past several (6) years I’ve always got into them in the first 2 weeks of May at the trestle at the Hampton R. I was there about an hour ago, in fact. Been fishing it a little for the past few weeks, nothing doing right yet, though a small baitfish followed my fly in once :- Gotta take encouragement where ya find it ! Today was windier than it looked and colder than it looked, but it beats working through lunch….                                                    jc

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Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area.

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Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area.

I don’ know about NH, but the stripers are almost always running at the mouth of the Merrimack River by the first week in May. But, judging by reports I’ve already heard of schoolies hitting in Rhode Island, I think it’s going to be an early year. Get your rods ready, it won’t be long now… -bd

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In CT. we get holdovers all winter. What we consider a run also starts early may. Schoolies in Rhode Island? I heard it too. TW – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – says… Could any one tell me when the stripers start running in NH. coastal area. I don’ know about NH, but the stripers are almost always running at the mouth of the Merrimack River by the first week in May. But, judging by reports I’ve already heard of schoolies hitting in Rhode Island, I think it’s going to be an early year. Get your rods ready, it won’t be long now… -bd

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Question:

Several people have entered into a purposeful discussion of the best way to use two flies……   related comment, but not on topic exactly…. I drove a very good friend of mine to the hospital with the second hook  ( the one not in the fish) deeeeeeeppppply embedded in his finger.    This hook was driven into his finger when the 10 pound steelhead he reach for… suddenly thrashed about.   Months later, infection etc… he still has scars…. I fish with only one fly now…. Alan E. Hoover

Yep, had that happen also Alan.  I was posing with a nice rainbow for a photo when the dropper with PT nymph flicked onto my index finger of my dominate hand.  When the shutter clacked the fish went flying and I got the hook deep. It took me a couple of hours to cut that thing out with the fileting knife during lunch break.  It sure was hard casting with that thing in there the remainder of the morning. -Burton — L. Burton Hawley         2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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Several people have entered into a purposeful discussion of the best way to use two flies……   related comment, but not on topic exactly…. I drove a very good friend of mine to the hospital with the second hook  ( the one not in the fish) deeeeeeeppppply embedded in his finger.    This hook was driven into his finger when the 10 pound steelhead he reach for… suddenly thrashed about.   Months later, infection etc… he still has scars…. I fish with only one fly now…. Alan E. Hoover Anglers’ Rest Powhatan, Va        *the trout teach many, lessons*

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It took me a couple of hours to cut that thing out with the fileting k Damn, Burton.  Fishing must have been slow if you took a couple of hours for lunch break!  :^) I saw a flyfishing show over the weekend that featured atlantic salmon fishing in Iceland.  They have an interesting regulation there.  The stream must be "rested" from 11:00am until 4:00pm (that means no fishing of any kind) every day.  Of course, at that latitude daylight goes until 10:00pm so there is plenty of time.

That’s an intresting concept.  It might be worth trying on some of our streams in the summer.  Different hours though. -Burton — L. Burton Hawley           2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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It took me a couple of hours to cut that thing out with the fileting knife during lunch break.  It sure was hard casting with that thing in there the remainder of the morning. Damn, Burton.  Fishing must have been slow if you took a couple of hours for lunch break!  :^) Tight Lines, preferably attached to ‘fish’, Charley

Nah, actually it was a good morning – pretty long.  It was just a long slow process cautiously getting down to the barb.  I’m no surgeon and had to wing it.  My fishing partner was taking a nap.  When I got ready to attempt pulling it out, I left the camper so I wouldn’t wake him if I yelled.  I grabbed it with tweezers and it popped right out.  That was the only one I forgot to pinch the barb on – talk about fate and retribution. -Burton — L. Burton Hawley           2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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Several people have entered into a purposeful discussion of the best way to use two flies……   related comment, but not on topic exactly….

Fishing a team of 2 or 3 flies is common in Ireland and Scotland especially where Seatrout and Salmon are expected on the same water. I invariably fish a double or triple hooked Salmon pattern on the tail with two droppers for Seatrout. If it is blowing a full gale and I start to tangle I might cut one dropper off. I have one friend who regularly fishes a team of 4 flies but he is so expert that he has the nickname of "Tightlines" I drove a very good friend of mine to the hospital with the second hook  ( the one not in the fish) deeeeeeeppppply embedded in his finger.    This hook was driven into his finger It took me a couple of hours to cut that thing out with the fileting knife during lunch break.

This hooking yourself business has cropped up before but I’ll say it again anyway. You do not have to go to the surgery or take a knife to yourself. Put your thumb very firmly on the eye end of the hook. Tie a bit of stout lanyard around the bend of the hook and give a firm pull away from the direction of the hook’s entry. You have to be bold. It works. There’s a bit of blood and it hurts, but you will be fishing again in 5 minutes. Mind you I’ve never tried it with a hook in the eye or eyelid. Has anyone ? — Ian McCowen – Polwarth Manse, Greenlaw, Berwickshire TD10 6YR SCOTLAND (fine old books on Shooting, Fishing, Natural History bought & sold)

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It took me a couple of hours to cut that thing out with the fileting knife during lunch break.  It sure was hard casting with that thing in there the remainder of the morning.

Damn, Burton.  Fishing must have been slow if you took a couple of hours for lunch break!  :^) Tight Lines, preferably attached to ‘fish’, Charley

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Here in Taupo we regularly use two nymphs on the bigger rivers. The first nymph is very heavy, we are not allowed to add lead to the line, and the second nymph, lighter. The second nymph is invariably tied off to the bend of the first hook, about 12 to 18 inches behind. If casting where it is possible, the best technique is to allow the nymphs to hit the water on the back cast, this ‘water haul’ helps to straighten out the line and fully load the rod. As several others have noted, try and cast an open loop, and also try and change the ‘plane’ at which the rod moves from the forward to back cast. Even so it is all pretty ugly to purist casters, but it gets the job done. We also tend to use shooting heads or weight forward tapers that have a short forward section. Despite all the above this type of casting is called here, chuck and duck, definitely a hard hat area. — Tony Bishop Fish with Bish Taupo New Zealand – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I : cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle : up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the : leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap : around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one : too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the : base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and : I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot : I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any : advice, Arek.

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Burton,         your ability to control the situation ends when a fish takes         one of the flies.  That’s when the worst tangles happen. Yeah, especially when a big fish is making a run and that second fly gets it’s barb caught on a rock.  Argh…!

        Etched forever in my memory is such an experience with a large         rainbow on the Madison River.  I was fishing a salmon fly with         an X-Caddis on a dropper.  The fish took the caddis (as usual),         and just when things were approaching the point where I was         thinking about a net, the fish made a pass by the boat and the         salmon fly got caught on the anchor line.  The salmon fly came         to an abrupt halt.  The fish, caddis fly and dropper didn’t.         I just stared at the errant salmon fly for some time, trying         to fully absorb the reality of the situation.  The image is         still vivid.         In fishing, as with everything else, there is no such thing as         a free lunch.  Fishing two flies may well double, or at least         increase the probability of hooking a fish, but there is a         price to be paid.  That being said, I still do it on a regular         basis.                                         Tom Hewlett-Packard Laboratories                     Phone: (970) 229-3531 External Research Program                          FAX: (970) 229-6198 3404 East Harmony Road Fort Collins, CO 80525-9599

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I : cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle : up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the : leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap : around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one : too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the : base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and : I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot : I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any : advice, Arek. : Arek: :    The only thing I could add to the previous post is that you may : need to pay more attention to your casting. Open that casting loop a : bit so that you’re not throwing a very tight loop and you sure need to : make sure that the back cast is fully extended before starting the : forward cast so that east doesn’t meet west. I generally will use the : same diameter tippet for the point fly as I’m using for the top one. : Jim There is some debate whether to put the heavy fly at the end or the lighter fly.  My experience is that if you cast a tighter loop, put the small fly on the end.  If you can cast a wider loop, put the heavy fly at the end. Pete

Use a lob cast or a circle cast. Very few tangles using two flies with these casts. –tony

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time. –I tie a Bimini twist, snip the loop at lengths desire for top and

dropper.  I works really well. dj

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2 nymphs…deadly, but beware. Your chances of foul hooking the fish as he rejects the first fly is hugely increased.  Your chances of mortally wounding the fish as the trailer wraps in its gills is also greatly increased.   Not that you should worry…just truth.  One whitefish this weekend had a nice 6cm gash in its belly from being foul hooked on my dropper #20 coachman, guts visible.  kilt it. smoked it. et it. — TimW Halfordian Golfer

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: I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I : cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle : up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the : leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap : around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one : too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the : base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and : I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot : I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any : advice, Arek. : Arek: :    The only thing I could add to the previous post is that you may : need to pay more attention to your casting. Open that casting loop a : bit so that you’re not throwing a very tight loop and you sure need to : make sure that the back cast is fully extended before starting the : forward cast so that east doesn’t meet west. I generally will use the : same diameter tippet for the point fly as I’m using for the top one. : Jim There is some debate whether to put the heavy fly at the end or the lighter fly.  My experience is that if you cast a tighter loop, put the small fly on the end.  If you can cast a wider loop, put the heavy fly at the end. Pete

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any advice, Arek.

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any

I fish this way most of the time.  The "dropper" leader is usually lighter than my main leader because the fly is always smaller.  I use no special knot, but have seen a blood knot reccomended, as well as the Surgeon’s knot. The length of the dropper leader should be around 4 inches (18 inches up the leader from the "point fly"), much longer than this and it twist around the main leader, too short and it takes action out of the dropper fly.  I think the key is not to have a weighted fly on the dropper.  Just a small nymph, wet or emerger. -Burton — L. Burton Hawley           2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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Arek, You can you use what ever size tippet you prefer and secure it to the gape of the first hook with a regular old improved clinch Knot.  Or you can place a loop somwhere in your leader and attach the two leaders loop to leader loop…no knot. They will tangle once in awhile…It wouldn’t be fly fishing if you didn’t get a tangle or two now and then.  One the leader material starts to become twisted…replace it right away….will prevent snarls. Good luck.  Email me with any questions.Works for me…I am sure there are probably other methods…we do not usually false cast these set-ups much… Regards, James Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service Vermont Fly Fishing, Hunting, River and Woodland Outings http://pobox.com/~uncle

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any advice, Arek.

Hi Arek I’ve always used and "in-line dropper system." Start by tying on your first fly, then tie an 18" or so piece of tippet to the bend of the first hook. Tie your second fly on the second piece of tippet. I use a Unit Knot or Clinch Knot (improved). I have fished up to three flies in this manner but two are easier to cast. Also you can fish a dry fly as your first fly with a nymph under it using the dry as your strike indicator. Or for old folks like me whose eyes are not as good as they used to be use a larger dry fly with a real small dry fly as the dropper. The bigger dry will give you a fairly good idea where the small fly is located. Good Tying & … — Tight Lines ….. Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products http://www.btsflyfishing.com Tiemco quality hooks, under $6.00 pkg/50

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any advice, Arek.

Hello Arek, I have experienced the same problems as you describe. The best (to date) solution for me is to tie the first nymph to the end of the tippet and then attach a second piece of tippet to the bend of the first nymph with an improved cinch knot. I use 18 to 24 inches of tippet and tie on the second nymph. Using heavy nymphs requires a special technique – the chuck and duck. You might want to experiment on the placement of the heavier nymph– first or second fly. I also use the technique with the first fly being a dry fly and the second either a small nymph, soft hackle, or in some cases, another too small-to-see dry fly. The first fly becomes a fishing strike indicator. Good luck and let us know how your experimenting works out. Vic’s Fly-By-Night http://www.navicom.com

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Arek writes, in part: <<I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time…… In Maine, it is illegal to use split shot with a fly.  So, I first tie on a bead head (or other weighted nymph) and tie my "intended lure" onto the bead head’s hook bend with about two feet of tippet of the *same* size.  I have no problems with the flies getting tangled — they are for all intents and purposes a single strand.  With this method, I can experiment with the size of the bead head to get deeper or shallower depending on the type water I am fishing.  Another way to do it, and it is easier, is to tie on about 2-3 feet of tippet using a double surgeon’s knot or barrell knot and leave a foot or less of the tag end intact — i.e., do not cut the tag end short.  This works just as well as the first method and is easier to tie.  I sometimes use a large dry fly (#12 Elk Hair Caddis tied with CDC feathers) tied to the leader and about 2 feet of tippet (same size!) tied to it’s hook bend, with an appropriate caddis nymph tied on as the dropper.  The dry fly then acts as a strike indicator —  I once caught a small brookie on the dry fly and while landing it, a larger brookie took the Rhyacophila nymph!  I lost the larger trout, but managed to land the little fella — fun and games when you have two on at once!! Sorry for the rambling reply, but I hope it helps. Good drifts, Paul LaCourse  

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.  I cast short, not much longer than the lenght of the leader and the leader that the fly is on (the shorter one) tends to wrap around the leading one.  I tried using a thicker line, a realy short one too; did not really help much.  I tried to tie the second leader to the base of the hook, I tried the eye of the hook; if I use thin tippet and I kept loosing flies when setting the hook(poor fish..) Is there a knot I could use that will prevent that?  Or what should I do?  Thanx for any advice, Arek.

Arek:    The only thing I could add to the previous post is that you may need to pay more attention to your casting. Open that casting loop a bit so that you’re not throwing a very tight loop and you sure need to make sure that the back cast is fully extended before starting the forward cast so that east doesn’t meet west. I generally will use the same diameter tippet for the point fly as I’m using for the top one. Jim

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Arek, I have tried fishing two flies, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.         your ability to control the situation ends when a fish takes         one of the flies.  That’s when the worst tangles happen.

Yeah, especially when a big fish is making a run and that second fly gets it’s barb caught on a rock.  Argh…! -Burton — L. Burton Hawley         2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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Burton,         your ability to control the situation ends when a fish takes         one of the flies.  That’s when the worst tangles happen. Yeah, especially when a big fish is making a run and that second fly gets it’s barb caught on a rock.  Argh…!         The salmon fly came         to an abrupt halt.  The fish, caddis fly and dropper didn’t.         I just stared at the errant salmon fly for some time, trying         to fully absorb the reality of the situation.  The image is         still vivid.

That’s why I added the Argh!  I’ve had this happen a couple of times, once with a nice steelhead on.  Image my embarrasment when I finally realized I was fighting a rock.  You are right the image is very vivid. -Burton — L. Burton Hawley           2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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Arek, I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.

        What I do is tie the larger of the two flies to the end of the         tippet, then tie a second tippet to the eye of the first fly.         The second tippet is usually about 18" long, and often of a         smaller diameter than the first tippet.  The second fly is         tied to the end of the second tippet.  This method does not         seem to have a significant effect on drift or hooking.         Tangles are almost impossible to avoid if a dropper is used.         Most casting tangles can be avoided with a bit of care, but         your ability to control the situation ends when a fish takes         one of the flies.  That’s when the worst tangles happen.                                         Tom Hewlett-Packard Laboratories                     Phone: (970) 229-3531 External Research Program                          FAX: (970) 229-6198 3404 East Harmony Road Fort Collins, CO 80525-9599

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Arek, I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.         What I do is tie the larger of the two flies to the end of the         tippet, then tie a second tippet to the eye of the first fly.         The second tippet is usually about 18" long, and often of a         smaller diameter than the first tippet.  The second fly is         tied to the end of the second tippet.  This method does not         seem to have a significant effect on drift or hooking.         Tangles are almost impossible to avoid if a dropper is used.         Most casting tangles can be avoided with a bit of care, but         your ability to control the situation ends when a fish takes         one of the flies.  That’s when the worst tangles happen.                                         Tom Hewlett-Packard Laboratories                     Phone: (970) 229-3531 External Research Program                          FAX: (970) 229-6198 3404 East Harmony Road Fort Collins, CO 80525-9599

What we used to do for two flies, was use an extension of the heavier leader material to tie the dropper to. Sometimes you needed two or three x-ratings differential to assure you wouldn’t tangle. This required good knots where the two mono sizes were joined. Jim N.

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I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.

I use a surgeon’s knot to attach a tippet, and I tie one fly to each of the two tippet tails.  I leave one tail long (18") and one short (6"). I tie a big dry fly to the short tail and a nymph to the other.  Then I cast great big wide loops.  It works OK for me.  Yes the casting is a little laborious, but it is pretty exciting when you get two lunker dace  on at once! Keep your stick on the ice, Thos.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Arek, I have tried fishing two files, actually nymphs on on one line and I cannot find a right way, or right knot to use, so they will not tangle up all the time.         What I do is tie the larger of the two flies to the end of the         tippet, then tie a second tippet to the eye of the first fly.         The second tippet is usually about 18" long, and often of a         smaller diameter than the first tippet.  The second fly is         tied to the end of the second tippet.  This method does not         seem to have a significant effect on drift or hooking.         Tangles are almost impossible to avoid if a dropper is used.         Most casting tangles can be avoided with a bit of care, but         your ability to control the situation ends when a fish takes         one of the flies.  That’s when the worst tangles happen.

Hi Tom and Arek, I tie the second tippet to the bend of the first fly with an improved cinch knot and then tie the second fly on the end of the tippet. I usually use about 24" of tippet. I have experimented with using the heavier fly as the first or second fly. I think fewer tangles are encountered when the heavier fly is on the bottom. Again experiment with using the a dry fly as the first fly with a lightly weighted nymph, soft hackle, or a tiny dry fly as the second fly. The first fly serves as a fishing strike indicator. — Vic Brockett Vic’s Fly-By-Night http://www.navicom.com/~vic

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