Question:

I contracted food posioning which turned into Guillian Barre Syndrome which left me totally parilized. I have been in recovery for three years and have regained use of my upper body and my lower body is starting to move.

You might find this useful; http://www.fishing-hunting.com/fishingnews/terrylawton/article3.htm TL MC

Response:

Scott, that’s pretty much the way it works here except this may vary according to the library’s program… The feature here is called ‘ILL’ (Inter Library Loan). My Library’s website does not search the interlibrary loan database. That search (for a particular book) has to be done by the librarian.. There is a cost….50 cents.,…..to read any book out there and man there is a lot! We’re talking collectors items…oops. john

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I contracted food posioning which turned into Guillian Barre Syndrome  which left me totally parilized. I have been in recovery for three years and have regained use of my upper body and my lower body is starting to move.Before my illness I lived to fish and flyfished anytime I could.My local Libary carries very few fly fishing titles and most are old. My question is are there any online libaries or sources that loan books? I was buying some used but I have a wife and three kids so have to watch the budget.Are there any good web sights that have alot of info on fly tieing and fishing. Thank you. KCL ”I’m Ready , Im Ready”   ~Spongebob Squarepants~ You didn’t mention your location (big city, small town).  Most libraries I know of have extensive interlibrary loan programs these days, and the service has been way enhanced in recent years by the internet. Find the books you want, via fishing mags, fishing sites, or even Amazon’s search engine (which I go to before trying my university library search if I need an ISBN number), then go to your libraries web site and request the book.  You’ll get an email when it gets in, and your wife or you can pick it up. If you have trouble, call the reference desk at your library and see if they can help.  Librarians can be very creative to meet special needs. Also, call your state conservation office to find out if there are any special opportunities for handicapped fisherman.  Whether you’re ready for it today or need to wait a little more into your recovery, eventually you’ll want to get out and there are ways to facilitate that. Good Luck, Scott

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I contracted food posioning which turned into Guillian Barre Syndrome  which left me totally parilized. I have been in recovery for three years and have regained use of my upper body and my lower body is starting to move.Before my illness I lived to fish and flyfished anytime I could.My local Libary carries very few fly fishing titles and most are old. My question is are there any online libaries or sources that loan books? I was buying some used but I have a wife and three kids so have to watch the budget.Are there any good web sights that have alot of info on fly tieing and fishing. Thank you. KCL ”I’m Ready , Im Ready”   ~Spongebob Squarepants~

You didn’t mention your location (big city, small town).  Most libraries I know of have extensive interlibrary loan programs these days, and the service has been way enhanced in recent years by the internet. Find the books you want, via fishing mags, fishing sites, or even Amazon’s search engine (which I go to before trying my university library search if I need an ISBN number), then go to your libraries web site and request the book.  You’ll get an email when it gets in, and your wife or you can pick it up. If you have trouble, call the reference desk at your library and see if they can help.  Librarians can be very creative to meet special needs. Also, call your state conservation office to find out if there are any special opportunities for handicapped fisherman.  Whether you’re ready for it today or need to wait a little more into your recovery, eventually you’ll want to get out and there are ways to facilitate that. Good Luck, Scott

Response:

 I contracted food posioning which turned into Guillian Barre Syndrome which left me totally parilized. I have been in recovery for three years and have regained use of my upper body and my lower body is starting to move.Before my illness I lived to fish and flyfished anytime I could.My local Libary carries very few fly fishing titles and most are old. My question is are there any online libaries or sources that loan books? I was buying some used but I have a wife and three kids so have to watch the budget.Are there any good web sights that have alot of info on fly tieing and fishing. Thank you. KCL ”I’m Ready , Im Ready”   ~Spongebob Squarepants~

Response:

Question:

Evolution of the Penn’s Creek Fisherman: 6. sleep, eat, drink, laugh, fish, in no special order….. Remember, it’s evolution, short cuts can be dangerous…….

We like living on the edge.  Danger is our business.  Besides, we ain’t all that sure about all that evolution stuff……and there’s just too damn much to remember!     Wolfgang who sure hopes there ain’t gonna be a quiz.

Response:

We like living on the edge.  Danger is our business.  Besides, we ain’t all that sure about all that evolution stuff……and there’s just too damn much to remember!     Wolfgang who sure hopes there ain’t gonna be a quiz.

Quiz?  I made all of that stuff up…I’m still at Step 1….

Response:

We like living on the edge.  Danger is our business.  Besides, we ain’t all that sure about all that evolution stuff……and there’s just too damn much to remember!     Wolfgang who sure hopes there ain’t gonna be a quiz. Quiz?  I made all of that stuff up…I’m still at Step 1….

Um…..Step 1 sounds a mite strenuous for us geezers.  I believe I’ll stick with step 6. Hey, I know!  While you guys are running up and down the stream for 16 hours I’ll stay behind and guard the beer!  Yeah, that’ll work!       Wolfgang it feels so good to be useful in the golden years.

Response:

Mike,    nice piece……btw, your Marabou Minnows are waiting on my kitchen table.                             Tom p.s. About that "invite a bunch of out-of- towners" step…….

Response:

<g …but, if’n it ain’t a twelve step program, none of my crowd will comply or progress…  i’ll be lookin for you at dawn and dusk or somewhere in mid-upstream hike… but only 16 hours doesn’t leave much time for many niceties, except perhaps your offering me a beer… jeff (in the land of one-step fishing) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Evolution of the Penn’s Creek Fisherman: 1. Catch as many fish as you possibly can, running up and down the creek 16 hours a day, 7 days a week, sucking down some food after dark, dressing the wounds, drying out the soaked clothes, and drinking as fast as you fish, so you can pass out, and wake up early in the morning, to get out for another 16 hours. 2. Catch as many fish as you can pausing for a few minutes to focus on the big fish at dawn, and dusk. Catching lunch in between the nymph water, and the hatch pools, and stay up later talking about how the f$#% the 20+ incher could snub your squirrelly fly presentation, wake a bit later in the morning. 3. Sleep in, wake up to a drool soaked pillow, eat a good breakfast, do some nymphing in the best holes, catch just as many fish as you did in step one in a few hours, eat lunch, drink beer, drink beer, nymph fish in the water you won’t fish the hatch in, stake out the perfect pool, wait for the amazing sequence events to take place (midges, midge spinners, emerging sulphurs, emerging grey fox, sulphur spinners, emerging sulphurs, march brown spinners, emerging sulphurs, while the caddis are there throughout), pick a fly to concentrate on, and wonder how the f$%# that monster brown could refuse your perfect fly presentation. Drink more than your old body can handle, go to beginning of step three. 4. Wake up early, eat breakfast, take a shower, wait for everyone to go upstream to all of the "best" water, fish the real water, drink beer, eat an early lunch, pass everyone going back for lunch, nymph fish, go back for early dinner, drink beer, wait for everyone to go back to the stream, go fishing on one of the other local streams, fly up over the mountain, take a couple shots, wait for someone from step one to leave the best hole, fish the hatch, throw the spinner over that one huge fish with some half assed cast, hook-it, fight it, breaks you off three feet from ya, drink tequila, take a day off the schedule, go to the beginning of step four. 5. Invite a bunch of out-of towners, teach’em step one, go to step four, somewhere around nymph fishing or dinner (taking care not to skip the beer, and shots). Enjoy everyone flying up and down the stream, throw an attractor fly out there on 2x tippet at dark, sleigh the dragon, 6. sleep, eat, drink, laugh, fish, in no special order….. Remember, it’s evolution, short cuts can be dangerous……. The Finn By the way, step one is the most fun…..

Response:

Mike,    nice piece……btw, your Marabou Minnows are waiting on my kitchen table.                             Tom p.s. About that "invite a bunch of out-of- towners" step…….

Hey, since I was one of those out of towners last year, can I move up? — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply. .

Response:

Hey, I know!  While you guys are running up and down the stream for 16 hours I’ll stay behind and guard the beer!  Yeah, that’ll work!       Wolfgang it feels so good to be useful in the golden years.

A step 7!!!

Response:

p.s. About that "invite a bunch of out-of- towners" step……. Hey, since I was one of those out of towners last year, can I move up? — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

You already did, although I had to practically drag you upstream myself…..in the midst of trying to locate some C4 to combat your arsenal (watch out for those underwater trip wires), but "can’t we all just get along?" The Finn

Response:

Hey, I know!  While you guys are running up and down the stream for 16 hours I’ll stay behind and guard the beer!  Yeah, that’ll work!       Wolfgang it feels so good to be useful in the golden years. A step 7!!!

See, that’s what I’m talking about….there’s ALWAYS another step….it’s like trying to keep up with Miller.  :( Wolfgang is it nap time yet?

Response:

"can’t we all just get along?"

Works for me. Wolfgang

Response:

Well, I hope to be more mobile this year.  The doc is thinking about using Botox on my back.  Oh, by the way, got a real wading staff now, and hopefully won’t loose it. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey, I know!  While you guys are running up and down the stream for 16 hours I’ll stay behind and guard the beer!  Yeah, that’ll work!       Wolfgang it feels so good to be useful in the golden years. A step 7!!! See, that’s what I’m talking about….there’s ALWAYS another step….it’s like trying to keep up with Miller.  :( Wolfgang is it nap time yet?

It’s the last step you want to avoid…. The BIG nap. Willi

Response:

is it nap time yet? It’s the last step you want to avoid…. The BIG nap.

While postponement is allowed, avoidance simply isn’t tolerated in these parts. Wolfgang one MUST observe the social niceties!      :)

Response:

It’s the last step you want to avoid…. The BIG nap. While postponement is allowed, avoidance simply isn’t tolerated in these parts.

You obviously haven’t read the latest in magnetic immortality theory. http://www.alexchiu.com/ — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

It’s the last step you want to avoid…. The BIG nap. While postponement is allowed, avoidance simply isn’t tolerated in these parts. You obviously haven’t read the latest in magnetic immortality theory. http://www.alexchiu.com/

O.K., sure, but what’s it really worth when breast enhancement schemes don’t wor….um…..never mind.     Wolfgang

Response:

Evolution of the Penn’s Creek Fisherman: 1. Catch as many fish as you possibly can, running up and down the creek 16 hours a day, 7 days a week, sucking down some food after dark, dressing the wounds, drying out the soaked clothes, and drinking as fast as you fish, so you can pass out, and wake up early in the morning, to get out for another 16 hours. 2. Catch as many fish as you can pausing for a few minutes to focus on the big fish at dawn, and dusk. Catching lunch in between the nymph water, and the hatch pools, and stay up later talking about how the f$#% the 20+ incher could snub your squirrelly fly presentation, wake a bit later in the morning. 3. Sleep in, wake up to a drool soaked pillow, eat a good breakfast, do some nymphing in the best holes, catch just as many fish as you did in step one in a few hours, eat lunch, drink beer, drink beer, nymph fish in the water you won’t fish the hatch in, stake out the perfect pool, wait for the amazing sequence events to take place (midges, midge spinners, emerging sulphurs, emerging grey fox, sulphur spinners, emerging sulphurs, march brown spinners, emerging sulphurs, while the caddis are there throughout), pick a fly to concentrate on, and wonder how the f$%# that monster brown could refuse your perfect fly presentation. Drink more than your old body can handle, go to beginning of step three. 4. Wake up early, eat breakfast, take a shower, wait for everyone to go upstream to all of the "best" water, fish the real water, drink beer, eat an early lunch, pass everyone going back for lunch, nymph fish, go back for early dinner, drink beer, wait for everyone to go back to the stream, go fishing on one of the other local streams, fly up over the mountain, take a couple shots, wait for someone from step one to leave the best hole, fish the hatch, throw the spinner over that one huge fish with some half assed cast, hook-it, fight it, breaks you off three feet from ya, drink tequila, take a day off the schedule, go to the beginning of step four. 5. Invite a bunch of out-of towners, teach’em step one, go to step four, somewhere around nymph fishing or dinner (taking care not to skip the beer, and shots). Enjoy everyone flying up and down the stream, throw an attractor fly out there on 2x tippet at dark, sleigh the dragon, 6. sleep, eat, drink, laugh, fish, in no special order….. Remember, it’s evolution, short cuts can be dangerous……. The Finn By the way, step one is the most fun…..

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – is it nap time yet? It’s the last step you want to avoid…. The BIG nap. While postponement is allowed, avoidance simply isn’t tolerated in these parts. Avoidance is a commonly used tactic by me. It works well in lots of situations. Ya think I may need to rethink that strategy on this one?

Nah, go for it.  Keep us posted on how it works out. Wolfgang eagerly awaiting the first installment at penn’s.      :)

Response:

<SNIP You obviously haven’t read the latest in magnetic immortality theory. http://www.alexchiu.com/

TL MC

Response:

is it nap time yet? It’s the last step you want to avoid…. The BIG nap. While postponement is allowed, avoidance simply isn’t tolerated in these parts.

Avoidance is a commonly used tactic by me. It works well in lots of situations. Ya think I may need to rethink that strategy on this one? Willi

Response:

Question:

After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment, I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend. I use a clinch knot. I think that 60% breakage figure is low. Make sure you lubricate the knot with a little spit before tightening. Willi

Arrrrrrrrrrrrggggggggggggguuuuuuuuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhh !!!!  You are kNot-Perfect!

Response:

I break off far more fish  (and bushes and trees) on my tippet to leader knot than I do at the hook eye knot (improved clinch for me). Of course, I am quite lazy and use a double surgeons knot instead of a blood knot for my tippet/leader connection, which probably explains that. Actually breaking off on anything is fairly rare with the stronger mono now in existence. The stuff I used  30 years ago was another matter. G.Cleveland – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to. There also seems to be debate over whether improved version is actually better. Even so, it seems to be at the top of the list when looking at knot tying articles. After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved clinch version. Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

Response:

"william hughes" wrote… Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line.

All the info that everyone has given you about knots will serve you well.. apply it. One other thing you should consider is a longer leader for dry fly fishing for trout.  7-1/2 feet is short.  9′ and up would be better.   Joel Axelrad **DFD**

Response:

DON’T PULL ON THE TAG END!!! I think lubrication is overrated.

I believe these two lines are in the running for my favorite ROFF quotes of 2002. Of course the year is still young. : ) -eddie http://www.guidetracker.com Go Fish…

Response:

"william hughes" wrote… Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. One other thing you should consider is a longer leader for dry fly fishing for trout.  7-1/2 feet is short.  9′ and up would be better.

Yep. What I do is buy 7.5′ 3X tapered leaders then use tippet material to build leaders anywhere from 8.5′ to 15′. Ernie Harrison’s little red thingy is good for this. What in the hell ever happened to Ernie ? Did he get his knickers in a twist over that "rod loading" bullshit ? — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

I use the improved clinch on smaller flies, but I find that it tends to slip on larger hooks.   I like the Trilene knot for big stuff.  My rule of thumb is if the hook eye is big enough to get the line through it twice, I use the trilene knot, otherwise I use the improved clinch knot. Kevin

I use neither and I certainly stopped using the clinch knot many, many, many years ago.  I have never used a knot that has cost me more lost fish than the damned clinch knot.  It is a stupid knot, a lazy knot, and only uneducated knot makers use it. I suppose with fishing LINES your rule of thumb would surfice but when it comes to dry flies and the hooks used in fly fishing, the amount of steel and drag used has a better scientific result determined by fifty years of testing by this author and it is this.  When a TIPPET can be thraded through the eye of the hook THREE TIMES, you have established the proper tippet diameter for that hook.  It is not correct to use an example that states, if your tippet material is .010 diameter it should slip through the eye of a .030 diameter hook.  However; if your tippet will squeeze through three times it works just fine.  That is three strands in a triangle configuration. There are physics involved that determine why this works but I’m not up to explaining it right now.  It simply works Kevin and it works wonderfully. I use ONE KNOT on all my flies and that is the Duncan Loop or Uni-Knot. I use FIVE turns through the loop and I snug the knot up to the tippet line without drawing the knot TO THE EYE OF THE HOOK.  When I put the Uni-Knot up to the eye, I leave a sixteenth of an inch of slack because I don’t wish to bottom the knot against the eye.  This way, my flies have movement as does my nymphs but especially my nymphs.   I have never, never lost a fish due to the 100% Uni-knot.  It has never come undone, it has never fail me in any way, shape or form. This IS the one knot any fly fisherman can stake their faith in any place on this planet.  This and the blood knot. Once a fish is hooked, the strike and weight of the fish draws the Uni-knot down to the eye of the hook for battle.   George Gehrke

Response:

One other thing you should consider is a longer leader for dry fly fishing for trout.  7-1/2 feet is short.  9′ and up would be better.

Especially in deeper or bigger water, I usually use a long leader when nymphing. I especially like to use a very long tippet. The thin tippet sinks much more readilly than the heavier sections of the leader and allows for easier strike detection and better control. Willi

Response:

There are physics involved that determine why this works but I’m not up to explaining it right now.  

Well, color me surprised… Kevin — Check out the Pike Clave Website: <http://www.misu.nodak.edu/~vang/PikeClave/

Response:

most of the tests I’ve seen on the clinch report 85 to 90% usually towatrds the higher number. The improved gets the strength up to about 95%. A stronger knot is the trilene. With any knot make sure you use the correct number of turns for the strength of tippet material. I suggest you consult a book or article by Lefty Kreh as I’ve found what he writes about knots to be the most reliable. RalphH

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to. There also seems to be debate over whether improved version is actually better. Even so, it seems to be at the top of the list when looking at knot tying articles. After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved clinch version. Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

Response:

Make sure your tippet material is in good shape. It deteriorates with age, especially if it’s exposed to sunlight.

        now *that’s* the truth.  and probably the primary reason for the failure of *any* knot. your friend in the old north state wayno

Response:

I use ONE KNOT on all my flies and that is the Duncan Loop or Uni-Knot.

        how neat.  i use only one knot, myself.  the improved clinch. well, just goes to show that two great fishermen can differ—right, george? I have never, never lost a fish due to the 100% Uni-knot.  It has never come undone, it has never fail me in any way, shape or form. This IS the one knot any fly fisherman can stake their faith in any place on this planet.  This and the blood knot.

        how telling.  you know what one half of a blood knot is, don’t you, george?  that’s right:  an improved clinch.         i just knew we’d find a common ground. wayno

Response:

I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

Most of the guides I’ve hired (especially the ones who are aggressive about changing flies) use the regular clinch knot. Whether it’s as strong as the improved clinch knot I don’t know, but it’s sure easier for me to tie, especially with fine tippets. If I’m changing flies a lot I use it. DON’T PULL ON THE TAG END!!! I think lubrication is overrated. If you tighten the knot slowly and carefully lubrication is unnecessary, IMHO. Make sure your tippet material is in good shape. It deteriorates with age, especially if it’s exposed to sunlight. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

I use the improved clinch on smaller flies, but I find that it tends to slip on larger hooks.   I like the Trilene knot for big stuff.  My rule of thumb is if the hook eye is big enough to get the line through it twice, I use the trilene knot, otherwise I use the improved clinch knot. Kevin — Check out the Pike Clave Website: <http://www.misu.nodak.edu/~vang/PikeClave/

Response:

After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to.

That is odd.  A few quick experiments should tell you if you’re tying them that weak. After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie.

Hmm, I find it as easy, if not easier, to tie.

Response:

After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to. There also seems to be debate over whether improved version is actually better. Even so, it seems to be at the top of the list when looking at knot tying articles. After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved clinch version. Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

Response:

After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,   I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

I use a clinch knot. I think that 60% breakage figure is low. Make sure you lubricate the knot with a little spit before tightening. Willi

Response:

I use a clinch knot. I think that 60% breakage figure is low. Make sure you lubricate the knot with a little spit before tightening.

Same here…..five turns, well lubricated. Additional turns, or the "improvement" of pulling the tag end through the loop, seem to me to make the knot harder to tighten properly and more likely to unravel. The key is to make sure the knot is tight. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

Response:

William Hughes writes: After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved

I have used the clinch knot for many years.  Never moved up to the improved clinch, and like you say, the uni-knot takes a little longer to tie (especially with arthritic hands).  If you tie the clinch correctly, lubricating the tippet before you pull the knot tight, it should not fail.  I have landed some very big fish with 5x tippet and the clinch knot.   Once you get the knot tightened and trimmed the tag end, pull on the fly to see if  the knot will hold.  Like tens of thousands of fly fishermen before you, the clinch knot should be all you will need. Dave

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to. There also seems to be debate over whether improved version is actually better. Even so, it seems to be at the top of the list when looking at knot tying articles. After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved clinch version. Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

The Uni is quick and easy to tie – it you add one step.  Assuming you’re right handed, normally one threads the tippet into the eye of the hook and leaves about 3" of a tag.  Hold the eye of the hook, the tippet and the tag with the left thumb and forefinger.  Now wrap the tippet around your left index finger a couple of times.  This keeps the short length of tippet above the eye nice and taut, making it easier to form and thread the loop to finish the knot. HTH Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://home.cogeco.ca/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

I agree with Dave et al…lubricating the knot is the key issue.  I don’t lose many trout because of knot problems. Eugene

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – William Hughes writes: After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved I have used the clinch knot for many years.  Never moved up to the improved clinch, and like you say, the uni-knot takes a little longer to tie (especially with arthritic hands).  If you tie the clinch correctly, lubricating the tippet before you pull the knot tight, it should not fail.  I have landed some very big fish with 5x tippet and the clinch knot. Once you get the knot tightened and trimmed the tag end, pull on the fly to see if  the knot will hold.  Like tens of thousands of fly fishermen before you, the clinch knot should be all you will need. Dave

Response:

There are two things to keep in mind when tying the clinch knot.  1) lubricate it. 2) tighten it slowly.  Thightening (a new word?) the knot quickly will cause heat to build up in the mono and weaken the tippet. Chris Richer – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – William Hughes writes: After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved I have used the clinch knot for many years.  Never moved up to the improved clinch, and like you say, the uni-knot takes a little longer to tie (especially with arthritic hands).  If you tie the clinch correctly, lubricating the tippet before you pull the knot tight, it should not fail.  I have landed some very big fish with 5x tippet and the clinch knot. Once you get the knot tightened and trimmed the tag end, pull on the fly to see if  the knot will hold.  Like tens of thousands of fly fishermen before you, the clinch knot should be all you will need. Dave

Response:

Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

William, I count being knot-challenged amongst my various and sundry handicaps. Some days I just can’t seem to make a freaking clinch knot work, improved or otherwise. If the ratio of tippet diameter vs. hook-eye diameter allows, I always use a Palomar knot. This is a very simple knot to learn and is very strong. I don’t remember this knot ever failing me. For smaller flies, you (and I!) had better learn to tie the clinch. I have noticed a marked improvement in clinch knotting since I started using my forceps as a tying tool, I’m not sure why. Danl

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After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to. There also seems to be debate over whether improved version is actually better. Even so, it seems to be at the top of the list when looking at knot tying articles.

William, For some time, I used the improved clinch knot. When I started getting into bigger fish, it seemed too many were breaking me off. I mentioned this to my local friendly flyshop owner one day and he told me he uses the regular clinch knot. He explained that the improved clinch is a stronger knot when tied properly, but many times during tying it can get twisted, and when it does, it becomes much weaker. So since that day, I’ve been happily using the standard clinch. The number of bigger fish breaking me off has been greatly reduced! As others have said, lubricate well and tighten slowly. After trimming the tag-end, always test the knot by gently pulling on the fly and tippet. Sometimes it looks like you’ve tied it correctly, but a pull will reveal a bad knot and the fly will come off the tippet. And it’s much better to find a bad knot by your pulling than by a trout’s! And yes, I’ve learned this tip the hard way! Fish on, my friend. Danny McMillin — Danny McMillin — Remove XX from email address to reduce spam.

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There are two things to keep in mind when tying the clinch knot.  1) lubricate it. 2) tighten it slowly.  …

I would add a third, tighten by pulling the line end away from the eye and not by pulling on the tag end. I switched from an improved clinch to a clinch several years ago based on something I read here in ROFF. Works for me. — Ken Fortenberry

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All knot failures I’ve had with the improved Cinch have been do to my stupidity in tying the knot, not the design of the knot. Lou

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After finally purchasing most of the needed equipment,  spending hours practice casting, and reading everything I can find about fly-fishing, I’m almost ready to go. Some articles state that the clinch knot (for tying fly to tippet) is only 60% as strong as the tippet it is tied to. There also seems to be debate over whether improved version is actually better. Even so, it seems to be at the top of the list when looking at knot tying articles. After losing practice flies using this knot, I started tying uni-knot, but it takes longer  to tie. My knot tying ability and casing smoothness have both improved somewhat, and I plan to start actually fishing with improved clinch version. Set-up will be 5x tapered (sci. anglers 7 1/2 ft) tip with12-16 size flies with 5 wt wt-forward line. I was hoping to get poll on  knot’s others would use/recommend.

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Question:

Hi Indy; I live in Wisconsin.  While some folks here may disapprove of fishing for gills on the redds, it’s certainly not true of all of us.  Most of the people I know do it.  The limit for bluegills has been reduced to 25 per day in Wisconsin; still more than enough, I think.  I can’t fault anything else you have to say on the subject, but personally I prefer to use lighter tippet…2 or 3 lb.  I believe it spooks the fish less and makes it easier to use tiny flies effectively.  I also like to gut and scale the fish rather than filleting because you always lose some of the meat when you fillet, and I want it all!

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Hi Indy; I live in Wisconsin.  While some folks here may disapprove of fishing for gills on the redds, it’s certainly not true of all of us.  Most of the people I know do it.  The limit for bluegills has been reduced to 25 per day in Wisconsin; still more than enough, I think.  I can’t fault anything else you have to say on the subject, but personally I prefer to use lighter tippet…2 or 3 lb.  I believe it spooks the fish less and makes it easier to use tiny flies effectively.  I also like to gut and scale the fish rather than filleting because you always lose some of the meat when you fillet, and I want it all!

Hi Wolfgang, I sometimes go to 4 lb. but that 2 to 3 lb. line breaks too often on big gills, especially here in Florida.  I had to go to my 8 weight fly rod and 6 lb. leader just to get those big ones out of the weeds. The lighter leader just doesn’t get it.  Those big gills are bedding here right now, by the way, and I’m going out this morning.  Fried a mess of fillets on Sunday night.  Tres bon!  There are some excellent big bluegill holes in Badger State up in Douglas Co. where I formerly lived.  Sorry I got the ‘gill limit wrong.  Things change.  Best wishes. — Don Jordan "The Real Indiana Jones" http://realindy.com

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Hi all. Just wondering when do you like to fish for gills. I live in West Michigan.  Please give me a tip. Thank you.

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my best gills are caught in mid may to end of june

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Anytime, anywhere!  Here in Wisconsin (and in Michigan, I believe) there is no closed season on bluegills.  A lot of people like to fish for them through the ice and they get a lot of them that way.  Personally, I don’t care for hard water fishing…too cold standing out on the ice…but to each his own.  I started fly fishing about fifteen years ago and quickly discovered that it is THE best method for catching bluegills; they LOVE bugs.  The best fishing is in the early mornings and late evenings during the spawning season.  Bluegills are very aggressive about protecting their redds.  I have seen them come up off the nest and bite ducks who happened to swimming nearby.  Apparently even small bugs are seen as a threat and are vigorously attacked.  For reasons unknown to me the average size of fish I catch is considerably greater during the spawn too.  Maybe because it’s the biggest that do most of the breeding.  Here in Southern Wisconsin the gills spawn early, starting sometime in May most years, though it varies a bit according to the weather.  When I lived up in the central part of the state a few years ago it was usually late May or early June.  And of course, in the northern reaches of WI and MI it will be later yet. The hot fishing lasts until the beginning of the hot weather of summer, at which time things taper off somewhat, though there are still days when the action can be phenomenal. All in all, I think the best policy is to get out and fish whenever possible.  Regardless of all other considerations, the people who catch the most fish are the ones who spend the most time fishing.  If you have never used a fly rod for bluegills, do so as soon as possible!  It’s about the most fun I’ve ever had without being naked, and as a matter of fact…..uh…..hm….maybe we won’t go there. Good luck. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all. Just wondering when do you like to fish for gills. I live in West Michigan.  Please give me a tip. Thank you.

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I grew up in LaPorte, Indiana (somewhat close to West Michigan). In LaPorte, we have a lot of lakes.  I don’t live there now unfortunately or I’d be fishing every weekend! When I grew up, my father, grandfather and I used to fish all the time…we caught bluegill and perch from March all the way through to October.  The best times seemed to be spring and fall. And, we found that the best nearly always tended to be worms dug up from the garden or there were times when grubs were the best. Ted Hi all. Just wondering when do you like to fish for gills. I live in West Michigan.  Please give me a tip. Thank you.

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Hi all. Just wondering when do you like to fish for gills. I live in West Michigan.  Please give me a tip. Thank you.

Hi Trudude, The absolute very best time to catch bluegill is when they are bedding. I know some guys up north may abhor this practice, but it is the standard approach everywhere from Illinois to Florida.  They bed in shallow water and their nests are usually visible.  The most fun is to catch them on a fly rod.  If you’re in a lake with huge gills in the 10 plus inch category, you will want at least a no.5 weight rod and at least 6 lb. test leader.  I like small poppers and foam body spiders,,,green, white, black, yellow.  Sometimes a sinking fly will work better.  I have had great sucess on a standard trout nymph with just a tiny, tiny bit of weight on it.  If you aren’t a fly guy, get an ultralight spinning outfit and cast 1/32nd jigs or 1/32nd oz. spinner baits.  If you’re a live bait guy, crickets are best during spawn, but anything will work.  Redworms when it is slow, on the bottom. Go to http://realindy.com/Previous.htm  read about casting jigs and spinners for bluegill.  Good pix too. Bluegill spawn from Florida to Ontario, beginning in April in the South, but probably peak out in May/June at your lattitude with emphasis on June.  They are the most active during the full moon. Bluegill are far and away the best eating fish extant, in my opinion, and most ‘gill anglers like them filleted rather than beheaded,scaled and gutted, etc.  There are no bag limits on them in the South, but Wisconsin had a 50-fish limit when I lived there. Catching big bluegill on light tackle is the most fun I have every year, and that’s counting fly fishing for trout in the Rockies and muskies in northern Wisconsin.  A 10-inch bluegill puts up an incredible fight and if you ever hit those 11 and 12 inch hogs, buddy they will flat whip your butt! I hope you catch a big mess of ‘em this spring.  Happy dining! — Don Jordan "The Real Indiana Jones" http://realindy.com

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Sorry about the 2 messages, but, bluegill aren’t hard to catch, as a matter of fact they’re quite easy.

When they’re biting. There are times when they’re just not interested. —  << << << << << << << <<  << << << << << << << <<

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About you r bluegill fishing.

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Sorry about the 2 messages, but, bluegill aren’t hard to catch, as a matter of fact they’re quite easy. That’s just about the only thing I catch. All you have to do is find a school of bluegill, put a bobber on and a small jig. (Make sure your bobber is situated right. They feed by the bottom or in the middle of the water). cast out in the school and wait. ( oh yes I forgot the most important part : Hook a Berkley "smelly" plastic worm on the jig. they come in swirly tails and grug. use the swirly tails.

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Question:

Can anyone tell me about fishing for striped bass in Oregon? Thanks, Gary Ingram

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Can anyone tell me about fishing for striped bass in Oregon? Thanks, Gary Ingram

Hi Gary, I guess there are some in the lower Umpqua river and in a tributary, the Smith river?  It was really smoken’ in the 60s and 70s, but it kinda’ died?  It might be going a bit, but you will have to explore the local areas. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY www.kiene.com

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I also am a striper fanatic in oregon.  I have a few secrets as to what and where to catch stripers here in oregon.  If you are interested  I may have a deal for you that can put you on some trophies.     If interested reply to this message!!!!

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Question:

We are headed off to Vermont in a few days to check out the flyfishing scene up there. We’ll be camping in the Rutland area and hitting all the streams around that area. Of course, we’ll also make at least one stop Orvis while we are there. Anybody have anything to share about what streams are good right now? This is going to be my first time ever in the New England area, so it’s all new to me. — Jon Porter http://www.Netwalk.com/~jporter/Backpage.htm

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Jon, You might try the New Haven and Middlebury Rivers in Bristol and Middlebury.  I haven’t been there this year yet, but I understand they are fishing well. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

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I was on the Battenkill at the weekend. Water temp was 58-60. Sporadic Hendriksons, no risers though. Might be a bit early yet, but I was talking to the F&W guy and he said there had been feeding fish over the past few days. I think it is worth a shot this weekend. You have to see that hatch in action as those big fly lie thick on the surface of backwaters. Another river worth trying is the Mettawee, about 5 miles west of Manchester. There are public access spots off the highway. This has a nice head of browns, brookies and rainbows. Finally as you head north on route 7, there is Otter Creek paralleling the road most of the way. Again some public access spots, but as this river is heavily stocked expect these points to be busy. Hike up or downstream. Otter Creek has good hatches and holds some beauties (my best is 16" brookie). Sorry I have no up to date stream reports, but I am confident you’ll catch fish assuming the rivers are in good condition. Gary

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We are headed off to Vermont in a few days to check out the flyfishing scene up there. We’ll be camping in the Rutland area and hitting all the streams around that area. Of course, we’ll also make at least one stop Orvis while we are there. Anybody have anything to share about what streams are good right now? This is going to be my first time ever in the New England area, so it’s all new to me. — Jon Porter http://www.Netwalk.com/~jporter/Backpage.htm

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yesterday, I said:

      in general all the streams are down to fishable levels. I should know better than to spout stuff like that.  No sooner had I finished saying this than the skies opened up, the mighty deluge began, and the NWS started issuing flash flood warnings all over the place.  In 12 hours the New Haven River (my home stream) went from its normal 400 cfs to 5500 cfs.  :-( Now it’s back down to about 1400 cfs, but it still looks like chocolate milk. Should be back to normal in a couple days, though. Cheers, — Dave "the jinx" Guertin http://caddis.middlebury.edu/trout/

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    Jon We are headed off to Vermont in a few days to check out the     Jon flyfishing scene up there. We’ll be camping in the Rutland     Jon area and hitting all the streams around that area. Jon, There are a number of streams in the Rutland area worth checking out. I can’t comment on how they’re fishing right now, but in general all the streams are down to fishable levels.  A couple weeks ago when I was last out, the water was clear but still extremely cold and fishing was slow.  By now things should be picking up considerably. The Mettawee is not too far from Rutland, and is usually excellent. Upper Otter Creek is probably worth checking out, too.  Across the mountains, the White and Black Rivers are also close and very good. Check out my Trout Streams of Vermont page (http://caddis.middlebury.edu/trout/) for a guide to all the streams in the area.  Not much in the way of descriptions yet, but there are maps, and it’s nice to see what rivers are where. Cheers, — Dave Guertin http://caddis.middlebury.edu/trout/

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We are headed off to Vermont in a few days to check out the flyfishing scene up there. We’ll be camping in the Rutland area and hitting all the streams around that area. Of course, we’ll also make at least one stop Orvis while we are there. Anybody have anything to share about what streams are good right now? This is going to be my first time ever in the New England area, so it’s all new to me.

Jon, I have read the other posts folks have put up to help you, but I really would suggest streams less well-known.  Two of these are the Furnace Brook and Castleton River.  Both of these smaller streams will most certainly be running clear and fishable.  For the most part, the other streams suggested are running very high and are muddy at best.  There was flooding  in both the CT River Valley and Otter Valley last night.  If you have any specific questions, I would be happy to help. James Ehlers, Editor Vermont Outdoors Magazine 2 Church Street Burlington, VT 05401 (802) 860-0003 Fax: (802) 860-0005 http://www.vermontoutdoors.com

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The ‘Kill was 58-60 this early??? Am I missing something, or is this a little warm for this time of the year? Hopefully we’re not looking at temps like last summer again!!! Alex – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was on the Battenkill at the weekend. Water temp was 58-60. Sporadic Hendriksons, no risers though. Might be a bit early yet, but I was talking to the F&W guy and he said there had been feeding fish over the past few days. I think it is worth a shot this weekend. You have to see that hatch in action as those big fly lie thick on the surface of backwaters. Another river worth trying is the Mettawee, about 5 miles west of Manchester. There are public access spots off the highway. This has a nice head of browns, brookies and rainbows. Finally as you head north on route 7, there is Otter Creek paralleling the road most of the way. Again some public access spots, but as this river is heavily stocked expect these points to be busy. Hike up or downstream. Otter Creek has good hatches and holds some beauties (my best is 16" brookie). Sorry I have no up to date stream reports, but I am confident you’ll catch fish assuming the rivers are in good condition. Gary We are headed off to Vermont in a few days to check out the flyfishing scene up there. We’ll be camping in the Rutland area and hitting all the streams around that area. Of course, we’ll also make at least one stop Orvis while we are there. Anybody have anything to share about what streams are good right now? This is going to be my first time ever in the New England area, so it’s all new to me. — Jon Porter http://www.Netwalk.com/~jporter/Backpage.htm

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Joe, Trout season ends Oct 27.  Caddis pupa and larva are always good choices on VT streams.  It is tough to say what exactly will be coming off that far in advance, especially this year with our water levels very high and temps cool.  Typically, tricos, isonychias and pseudocloeon are hatching during that window.  E -mail closer to your trip for more specific conditions. James Ehlers Uncle Jammer’s Guide Service (#2298) If you would like more info on my service including western style fly fishing drift boat trips, send me your postal address and I’ll send you my brochure. Cheers, James

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I am planning one or two trips to Vermont this fall. I will stay at Sugarbush. My ???? are ….#1 When does the season end? Can I plan a Columbus Day trip. Also,(#2) Has the fall fishing got going by Sept 20- would a late Sept. trip be worth while? #3 Can anybody suggest what flies to use? I am planning to try caddis flies and a variety of terrestials. joe hardman TIA

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Question:

                     Thank you for stopping to read this       Hi, my name is Ash and I am currently doing reserch on the pschology of fly fishing. Through my reserch I found Abraham Maslow’s "hierarchy of needs" It is a pyramid which outlines our needs as humans. It states the following with physioloical needs being at the base. HIERARCHY OF NEEDS 1) Self-actualization needs     to find self- fulfillment amd realize one’s potential 2) Aesthetic  needs     symmetry, order, and beauty 3) Cognitive needs     to know, understand, and explore 4)  Esteem needs      to achieve, be competent, and gain approval and recognition 5)  Belongingness and love needs      to affiliate with others, be accepted, and belong 6)  Safety needs      feel secure and safe, out of danger 7)  Physiological needs      hunger, thirst, and so forth If you could please explain in detail how fly fishing meets these needs and if not why ?  What needs are being met by fly fishing. Thanks a lot for being apart of this. Once completed I will post my results on ths board so you may all see the results.

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Sorry pal, I’m to busy fly fishing and meeting my needs. Guess you’ll have to do the owrk yourself. Gone Fishing Lolo Mt

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7)  Physiological needs

In fly fishing, the difference between "want" and "need" is irrelevant.                                                 Randy Lutz

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Question:

   I only suggest Mike lawson’s if you have 1000 dollars to spend…. they are rude and won’t give you the time of day.  Try Jimmy’s All seasons angler in Idaho Falls…you will get just as good information…better in my opinion and no attitude.

Hi Peter I also suggest the boys at the Hyde Drift Boat Shop in Idaho Falls 208-529-4343. They are also great and very helpful. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Need up to date info on the Henry’s Fork.  Will be there Aug. 15, 16 & 17.  Can anyone help?

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I was just out in July. I suggest you go see Mike Lawson’s fly shop and ask for HELP!  You will NEED IT !! rm

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        I only suggest Mike lawson’s if you have 1000 dollars to spend…. they are rude and won’t give you the time of day.  Try Jimmy’s All seasons angler in Idaho Falls…you will get just as good information…better in my opinion and no attitude.

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I am planning on fishing the Island Park area next week and wondered if anyone has any recent reports as the fishing and water conditions.  At this point I have plans to fish the Henry’s Fork and Warm River.  Anyone have any info please let me know Thanks in advance Robert Warren –

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I am planning on fishing the Island Park area next week and wondered if anyone has any recent reports as the fishing and water conditions.  At this point I have plans to fish the Henry’s Fork and Warm River.  Anyone have any info please let me know

I have been maintaining a WWW Page that tracks both the flows and fishing reports for the area you are going to be in.  Point your browser to: http://www.nicoh.com/flyfish/reports Matt — NICOH Net Internet Access Provider for Eastern Idaho

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Question:

I’m canoing the Bowron Lake circuit next week and I don’t know what kind of fish I will find – trout, walleye, or northern pike?  Somebody please give me some advice on what to bring and what I’ll find.  Thanks…

Trout. — Isaac Lake President – Recreational Canoeing Association of British Columbia Master Instructor

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Mountain House and Alpenlite are the lures most likely to supply a decent meal on the Bowron Lakes.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m canoing the Bowron Lake circuit next week and I don’t know what kind of fish I will find – trout, walleye, or northern pike?  Somebody please The fishing is particularly good in June, in fact.  Mostly trout, including big lake trout down deep and some amazing rainbows.  Also a few whitefish.  Try paddling slow with  a white apex spoon about 3 inches long, down deep with about 2 ounces of weight. Fly fishing also works in close to shores. The guy who said to try freeze dried because its a park doesn’t know what he’s talking about.  Just make sure to get a fresh water licence from any sporting goods store and follow the regulations they give you.  Basically, 12 inch minimum. Dan Burnett Vancouver, B.C., Canada Tel: 604-691-7506  Fax:604-688-2827

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I’m canoing the Bowron Lake circuit next week and I don’t know what kind of fish I will find – trout, walleye, or northern pike?  Somebody please

The fishing is particularly good in June, in fact.  Mostly trout, including big lake trout down deep and some amazing rainbows.  Also a few whitefish.  Try paddling slow with  a white apex spoon about 3 inches long, down deep with about 2 ounces of weight. Fly fishing also works in close to shores. The guy who said to try freeze dried because its a park doesn’t know what he’s talking about.  Just make sure to get a fresh water licence from any sporting goods store and follow the regulations they give you.  Basically, 12 inch minimum. Dan Burnett Vancouver, B.C., Canada Tel: 604-691-7506  Fax:604-688-2827

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I’m canoing the Bowron Lake circuit next week and I don’t know what kind of fish I will find – trout, walleye, or northern pike?  Somebody please give me some advice on what to bring and what I’ll find.  Thanks…

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I’m canoing the Bowron Lake circuit next week and I don’t know what kind of fish I will find – trout, walleye, or northern pike?  Somebody please

Bring freeze dried- it’s a park. ian iGIVE ME Some advice on what to bring and what I’ll find.  Thanks…

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Question:

Someone told me that a magazine by Frank Amato (FlyFishing, I think) had an article published over the last two years that told one how to fish the Florida Keys…out of a car, and camp.  It supposed to tell the mile markers to go to and everything.  If anyone knows about this article, can you either send me a copy or tell me which issue it was in. Thanks, Bulldog #                         |  "I wanted to look for you.  You walked in; I # # Paul "Cousin" Graham    |   didn’t know just what I should do, so I     # #                         |   for myself." – Hootie & The Blowfish        #

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The article I think you might be looking for is in Flyfishing Mag. (Jan-Feb) 1994 starting on page 46.  I got lucky and happened to have cliped the article for future reference.  If you would like me to Fax it shoot you the article.

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