Question:

I like Outbacks, but at 6′3" (not overly tall) I found they have a serious lack of legroom.  I don’t see how you can say they have way more interior space than an average SUV, as my smallish 2-door Explorer is roomier.

If the Outback is too small for you, look at the Forester.  It has more room in all ways, but still isn’t a gas hog or road-warrier. — David L. Johnson    __o   | I don’t believe you, you’ve got the whole damn thing all wrong.  _`(,_  | He’s not the kind you have to wind-up on Sundays.  –Ian (_)/ (_) | Anderson   — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability? Check out the Subaru Outback.   Way more interior space than many averaged sized SUV’s.  It’s also much easier to get bikes up on the roof.

Outback simply SUCK for beach riding. I almost lost mine in Kauai. Yes, I took the air down to 20psi and all that funky stuff. It doesn’t have a real 4×4 and only the wheel with least resistance spins. I know, I have a lot of scars to prove it – trying to get it out. A 4 runner towed me out – for a case of beer. — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

Outback simply SUCK for beach riding. I almost lost mine in Kauai. Yes, I took the air down to 20psi and all that funky stuff. It doesn’t have a real 4×4 and only the wheel with least resistance spins. I know, I have a lot of scars to prove it – trying to get it out. A 4 runner towed me out – for a case of beer.

20 PSI is generally too high. Try 15 or even 10 PSI next time and you can probably go anywhere. — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

in rec.autos.4×4, Outback simply SUCK for beach riding. I almost lost mine in Kauai. Yes, I took the air down to 20psi and all that funky stuff. It doesn’t have a real 4×4 and only the wheel with least resistance spins. I know, I have a lot of scars to prove it – trying to get it out.

Down to 20psi? For sand try more like 5-8 psi…. I run 2-3 psi in the snow/sand. ~Brian — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

Outback simply SUCK for beach riding. I almost lost mine in Kauai. Yes, I took the air down to 20psi and all that funky stuff. It doesn’t have a real 4×4 and only the wheel with least resistance spins. I know, I have a lot

I thought those fancy modern "All Wheel Drive" systems are supposed to power the wheels that DO get traction. I guess I’ll stick with my old assumption, that AWD is good for cars on less-than-perfect roads / weather, and not much else. Maybe different AWD systems from different manufacturers are better or worse. — Rick Onanian — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

Outback simply SUCK for beach riding. I almost lost mine in Kauai. Yes, I took the air down to 20psi and all that funky stuff. It doesn’t have a real 4×4 and only the wheel with least resistance spins. I know, I have a lot I thought those fancy modern "All Wheel Drive" systems are supposed to power the wheels that DO get traction. I guess I’ll stick with my old assumption, that AWD is good for cars on less-than-perfect roads / weather, and not much else. Maybe different AWD systems from different manufacturers are better or worse.

  There is a small difference between the AWD system on   cars like the Porsche Turbo, Audi S6, Lamborghini,   Porsche Cayenne, and the considerably less expensive   ones found on lesser vehicles.

Response:

I’ve driven my Jeep Wrangler on the NC outer banks beaches.  It’s actually pretty tough conditions getting over the dune trails.  I saw a Subaru getting pulled out of the deep sand – he was buried up to his frame, and two really big 4wd trucks were having trouble getting him out.  Depending on recent weather, you might have to drive quite a distance through the softest, driest sand you can imagine, with really deep tracks that require good clearance.  On the beach I see mostly 4WD trucks and "normal/large" size SUVs, not the small ones.  You need to lower your tire pressure to 15-10 psi.  Once you clear the really soft sand you can drive easily.  There’s nothing like the outer banks beaches – sometimes you can drive till you can barley see another vehicle, and have a mile of beach all to yourself.  Other times it’s like a parking lot of 4×4s.  Not sure why.  You can also ride a mountain bike along the hard sand at the water’s edge, but the sand and salt are really bad for the bike… Brad — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

This past April I had my GMC Sarfari AWD van on the beaches in Hatteras… deflate the air pressure in your tires to 20psi and off you go!!! Everything fits in, or, or behind the van. — Marty S. Baltimore, MD  USA – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability? we also need the car to be decent or good on the road, for normal use. we have a new baby… also, my s.o. is only 5′1" tall, while i’m 6′ so i don’t want her to feel the truck is too high (getting in) or too big (reaching the trunk, etc). we’re looking at the MAZDA TRIBUTE. We know it drives well on the road… is the 4 wheel drive V6 reasonable for the beach?? Enough power? Won’t get stuck? I’ve heard compact suv’s like the CRV are not good that way.. any real differences on the FORD ESCAPE? how is the Jeep liberty? Toyota 4runner tops the charts but $$… would have to get a *more* used one. What do you all drive on the beach for fishing/camping/biking? i guess ideally you want a truck truck for the beach, which probably doesn’t ride that well on the road, and a car car for everyday…. but what’s the best of both worlds, or the best compromise?… we have a budget too to consider and we’d like to stay in the 15-22K range for a new, or 1-2 year old, <20-30K miles type of bracket. also, anyone know if a slim thule or other cargo box plus a couple mountain bike trays would fit on top of the Mazda tribute? can you email replies to me, if you also post? thx in advance james — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

– rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

James, If I had the money to blow on a new car, I’d probably buy a Honda Element. This seems to meet all of your criteria, and is available in four wheel drive. We (wife and I) have considered buying one but have decided to wait a couple of years for a Hybrid gasoline/ electric vehicle. (Toyota Highlander, Ford Escape, and Saturn VUE hybrids will all available within the next couple of years, as will a Toyota Sienna Hybrid AWD (a real wallet-buster, no doubt.) Until then, we’re still cramming all of our stuff into our Saturn Wagon! The bikes go on a receiver hitch rack in the back. Dave Wissenbach – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability? we also need the car to be decent or good on the road, for normal use. we have a new baby… also, my s.o. is only 5′1" tall, while i’m 6′ so i don’t want her to feel the truck is too high (getting in) or too big (reaching the trunk, etc). we’re looking at the MAZDA TRIBUTE. We know it drives well on the road… is the 4 wheel drive V6 reasonable for the beach?? Enough power? Won’t get stuck? I’ve heard compact suv’s like the CRV are not good that way.. any real differences on the FORD ESCAPE? how is the Jeep liberty? Toyota 4runner tops the charts but $$… would have to get a *more* used one. What do you all drive on the beach for fishing/camping/biking? i guess ideally you want a truck truck for the beach, which probably doesn’t ride that well on the road, and a car car for everyday…. but what’s the best of both worlds, or the best compromise?… we have a budget too to consider and we’d like to stay in the 15-22K range for a new, or 1-2 year old, <20-30K miles type of bracket. also, anyone know if a slim thule or other cargo box plus a couple mountain bike trays would fit on top of the Mazda tribute? can you email replies to me, if you also post? thx in advance james — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

– rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

I guess for the beach you need wide tires and 4 wheel drive? I am sure that down around Corpus Christi they have some favorite vehicles? I think I have seen Chevy Suburbans in some articles? — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA www.kiene.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability? we also need the car to be decent or good on the road, for normal use. we have a new baby… also, my s.o. is only 5′1" tall, while i’m 6′ so i don’t want her to feel the truck is too high (getting in) or too big (reaching the trunk, etc). we’re looking at the MAZDA TRIBUTE. We know it drives well on the road… is the 4 wheel drive V6 reasonable for the beach?? Enough power? Won’t get stuck? I’ve heard compact suv’s like the CRV are not good that way.. any real differences on the FORD ESCAPE? how is the Jeep liberty? Toyota 4runner tops the charts but $$… would have to get a *more* used one. What do you all drive on the beach for fishing/camping/biking? i guess ideally you want a truck truck for the beach, which probably doesn’t ride that well on the road, and a car car for everyday…. but what’s the best of both worlds, or the best compromise?… we have a budget too to consider and we’d like to stay in the 15-22K range for a new, or 1-2 year old, <20-30K miles type of bracket. also, anyone know if a slim thule or other cargo box plus a couple mountain bike trays would fit on top of the Mazda tribute? can you email replies to me, if you also post? thx in advance james — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

– rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

Check out the Subaru Outback.   Way more interior space than many averaged sized SUV’s.  It’s also much easier to get bikes up on the roof.

I like Outbacks, but at 6′3" (not overly tall) I found they have a serious lack of legroom.  I don’t see how you can say they have way more interior space than an average SUV, as my smallish 2-door Explorer is roomier.  Maybe more cargo space than a CRV or RAV 4, but those are quite a bit smaller than average size and still have more legroom. Nice vehicles though if you can fit in them. — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability?

Be wary of the Mazda Tribute/Ford Escape twins (they are mechanically identical, built by Ford).  They are good vehicles on paper, but have fairly poor reliability and resale value. The Jeep Liberty also has shown poor reliability and resale.  It is more capable off road than the Tribute/Escape but rides rougher, doesn’t drive as nice, is less roomy and gets poorer fuel economy. A well used Toyota 4-runner would be a better vehicle than either the Escape/Tribute or the Liberty are new.  But it is probably more than what you need. Take a long look at a Subaru Outback or Forester.  Also a Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4 would probably meet your needs.  The CRV is especially nice for kids as it has a minivan-like passthough to the back seats. The Hyundai Santa Fe is also a nice vehicle and comes with a great warranty. Do your research and be sure to look at total cost of ownership, including resale value and maintenence costs.  You will find Ford, GM, and Chrysler products really struggle there, while Honda is typically the best. Check out this article: http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2003-08-15-carcosts_x.htm The "cute-utes" are not real off road vehicles only if you plan to rock hop with the Jeeps. They should do fine for what you described. If you had any heavy towing to do I would say differently.  It would be silly to get a more capable 4×4 you would rarely if ever need, and you may get annoyed with the "truckyness" that comes with the bigger 4×4s.  I sure do.  Then again, I really don’t know how serious your off-road plans are.  But I’m guessing not as serious as you think. When I was in high school, my dad had a 2-wheel drive 4-cylinder Ranger.  You may be surprised where I took that thing.  It made a fine hunting vehicle. I can tell you with absolute certainty to stay away from Ford Explorers.  I have one and it is the biggest piece of junk I have ever owned.  And it doesn’t even have 60,000 miles on it yet.  The initial price made it seem like a good value.  But it’s been anything but. — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability?

Check out the Subaru Outback.   Way more interior space than many averaged sized SUV’s.  It’s also much easier to get bikes up on the roof. Barry — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

Is it necessary to post again? Well, I’ll reply to a couple other points… we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are

Only if you want one. good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability?

I’ve never seen a campground or park that requires a real 4×4 to get to the site. The worst I’ve seen is the Winterhawk bluegrass festival, which requires you to get up a big, steep hill; if it’s muddy, 2-wheel drive vehicles have a tough time. Some campgrounds do have rather rough paths, but all that’s required is a little extra ground clearance. we also need the car to be decent or good on the road, for normal use.

This is when you’ll use it most, on the road. You should probably make that a priority. road… is the 4 wheel drive V6 reasonable for the beach?? Enough power? Won’t get stuck? I’ve heard compact suv’s like the CRV are not good that way..

Compact SUVs, as well as larger ones built on a car platform, are not off-road vehicles, no matter what the manufacturer claims. They can handle grass, the path to the campground, etc; but tough stuff like deep in the woods or in deep sand, you need quite the ballsy off-road pickup (or SUV built on a pickup truck platform). Do you expect to drive on the beach? I’ve only ever seen vehicles allowed on the beach on TV shows like Baywatch; nowhere I’ve been, have I seen vehicles permitted to drive onto the sand, or anywhere out of the parking lot. any real differences on the FORD ESCAPE?

The Ford Escape is a car-based SUV. It will do anything spectacular. It probably gives a pretty good ride on the road. how is the Jeep liberty?

Reportedly, the Liberty is okay. Never driven one. What do you all drive on the beach for fishing/camping/biking? i guess

I don’t drive anything on the beach. For fishing/camping/biking, I drove a 1997 Pontiac Grand Am for 5 years; a 1987 Cadillac Sedan Deville for a couple years before that; and now I drive a full size pickup, specifically, a 2002 GMC Sierra 4×4, extended cab, etc. The Caddy and the Pontiac did fine for all sorts of off-road situations, although I did bend a wheel by going too fast in the Caddy on a very rough trail. People who think a low-slung, 2wd car can’t go off road, either have never done it, or are unskilled off-road drivers. They can’t do really gnarly off road stuff; but car-based SUVs can’t either, except that they can deal with a little bit slipperier conditions and a little bit higher clearance issues. ideally you want a truck truck for the beach, which probably doesn’t ride that well on the road, and a car car for everyday…. but what’s the best of both worlds, or the best compromise?… we have a budget

My GMC Sierra, which does NOT have any sort of off-road package, and has lame-looking road tires, is the most comfortable vehicle I’ve ever driven. The tires, which look lame, provide ample grip in all sorts of snow, mud, etc. also, anyone know if a slim thule or other cargo box plus a couple mountain bike trays would fit on top of the Mazda tribute?

I can’t imagine why not. can you email replies to me, if you also post? thx in advance james

– Rick Onanian — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability? we also need the car to be decent or good on the road, for normal use. we have a new baby… also, my s.o. is only 5′1" tall, while i’m 6′ so i don’t want her to feel the truck is too high (getting in) or too big (reaching the trunk, etc). we’re looking at the MAZDA TRIBUTE. We know it drives well on the road… is the 4 wheel drive V6 reasonable for the beach?? Enough power? Won’t get stuck? I’ve heard compact suv’s like the CRV are not good that way.. any real differences on the FORD ESCAPE? how is the Jeep liberty? Toyota 4runner tops the charts but $$… would have to get a *more* used one. What do you all drive on the beach for fishing/camping/biking? i guess ideally you want a truck truck for the beach, which probably doesn’t ride that well on the road, and a car car for everyday…. but what’s the best of both worlds, or the best compromise?… we have a budget too to consider and we’d like to stay in the 15-22K range for a new, or 1-2 year old, <20-30K miles type of bracket. also, anyone know if a slim thule or other cargo box plus a couple mountain bike trays would fit on top of the Mazda tribute? can you email replies to me, if you also post? thx in advance james — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

You might want to look at the Suzuki XL-7 (4 wheel drive version).  You could get the third row seat version and still stay close to the upper limit of your price range.  Even an ‘02 model would be good, and most (those sold after August last year) have a transferable 7 year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.  It might be worth looking at. — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

we’re looking for a second car, and i’d like to get something that can go onto the beaches here in nc (and elsewhere). i’m a longtime pier fisher, but will be new to the beach and surf. it *is* necessary to get a good 4×4 as a fisherman in nc, isn’t it?  i’ve heard there are good parks to go camping at also, where you need 4×4 capability? we also need the car to be decent or good on the road, for normal use. we have a new baby… also, my s.o. is only 5′1" tall, while i’m 6′ so i don’t want her to feel the truck is too high (getting in) or too big (reaching the trunk, etc). we’re looking at the MAZDA TRIBUTE. We know it drives well on the road… is the 4 wheel drive V6 reasonable for the beach?? Enough power? Won’t get stuck? I’ve heard compact suv’s like the CRV are not good that way.. any real differences on the FORD ESCAPE? how is the Jeep liberty? Toyota 4runner tops the charts but $$… would have to get a *more* used one. What do you all drive on the beach for fishing/camping/biking? i guess ideally you want a truck truck for the beach, which probably doesn’t ride that well on the road, and a car car for everyday…. but what’s the best of both worlds, or the best compromise?… we have a budget too to consider and we’d like to stay in the 15-22K range for a new, or 1-2 year old, <20-30K miles type of bracket. also, anyone know if a slim thule or other cargo box plus a couple mountain bike trays would fit on top of the Mazda tribute? can you email replies to me, if you also post? thx in advance james — rec.bicycles.off-road is moderated by volunteers.  To find help solving posting problems, or contact the moderators, please see http://rbor.org/ Please read the charter before posting: http://rbor.org/rbor_charter.txt

Response:

Question:

Have the white flies started to hatch on the upper Potomac yet?

Response:

Yes.  Best time is after seven p.m.  I’ve been using a "green weenie" pattern, but using white chenille vice chartreuse. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

Yes.  Best time is after seven p.m.  I’ve been using a "green weenie" pattern, but using white chenille vice chartreuse. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Frank, it strikes me that Doc Saylor might be somebody you ought to hook up with (no pun intended) Given your propensity to do face plants and other wild gyrations while fishing, you need to make him your fishin’ buddy. Just tryin’ to keep you alive and his business flourishing. Frank Sr. who is due for two more cortisone shots in the heels. YIKES!!!

Response:

Frank, it strikes me that Doc Saylor might be somebody you ought to hook up with (no pun intended) Given your propensity to do face plants and other wild gyrations while fishing, you need to make him your fishin’ buddy. Just tryin’ to keep you alive and his business flourishing. Frank Sr. who is due for two more cortisone shots in the heels. YIKES!!!

Actually, looking for the Air Force Pararescue type. Need someone who can scale a cliff or a fish, shoot an attacking grizzly or a class V rapid to drag my ass out, repair a float tube or repair to the extraction point.  Must be qualified in white water, avalanche, and deep submersible rescue.  Should be world renown fly tyer and brewer. Now thats a fishing buddy.                  Frank (Just had cortisone next to my spine)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Frank, it strikes me that Doc Saylor might be somebody you ought to hook up with (no pun intended) Given your propensity to do face plants and other wild gyrations while fishing, you need to make him your fishin’ buddy. Just tryin’ to keep you alive and his business flourishing. Frank Sr. who is due for two more cortisone shots in the heels. YIKES!!! Actually, looking for the Air Force Pararescue type. Need someone who can scale a cliff or a fish, shoot an attacking grizzly or a class V rapid to drag my ass out, repair a float tube or repair to the extraction point.  Must be qualified in white water, avalanche, and deep submersible rescue.  Should be world renown fly tyer and brewer. Now thats a fishing buddy.

You need a dog. — TL, Tim (well, not for the fly tying and brewing but, hey, nobody’s perfect.)

Response:

You need a dog. — TL, Tim

Well, I have a dog.  I shall refer to him as "blond dog."  He is a master brewer, as a matter of fact, his output rivals Budweiser in quantity and quality.  He is afraid of bugs, terrified of the treadmill (well, thats not a bad thing), feet moving under a blanket on the bed will send him into a barking fit for two hours, often forgets to put his feet back down when jumping off of a step, gets beaten up by the cat, has more psychosis than ROFF (you must pretend that you are trying to eat his food or he will go 4-5 days without eating), his daddy was a long-haired miniture dachshund and mommy was a maltese.  So he is either a dachtese or a malhund.  I don’t need another. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

Well, I was in the Navy so I could probably call in an aircraft carrier to save you on occasion.  I’m also due to brew my sixth batch of pale ale or porter soon. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You need a dog. — TL, Tim Well, I have a dog.  I shall refer to him as "blond dog."  He is a master brewer, as a matter of fact, his output rivals Budweiser in quantity and quality.  He is afraid of bugs, terrified of the treadmill (well, thats not a bad thing), feet moving under a blanket on the bed will send him into a barking fit for two hours, often forgets to put his feet back down when jumping off of a step, gets beaten up by the cat, has more psychosis than ROFF (you must pretend that you are trying to eat his food or he will go 4-5 days without eating), his daddy was a long-haired miniture dachshund and mommy was a maltese.  So he is either a dachtese or a malhund.  I don’t need another. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

Okay, think we gotta hook up.  I do know of a couple of good spots within ten miles of Harpers Ferry.  My daughter is coming back this weekend after a month away so will stay home, but mayhaps next?  I’ll even leave off the squiddly jokes. — Frank Reid (USAF Retired) Reverse email to reply.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You need a dog. — TL, Tim Well, I have a dog.  I shall refer to him as "blond dog."  He is a master brewer, as a matter of fact, his output rivals Budweiser in quantity and quality.  He is afraid of bugs, terrified of the treadmill (well, thats not a bad thing), feet moving under a blanket on the bed will send him into a barking fit for two hours, often forgets to put his feet back down when jumping off of a step, gets beaten up by the cat, has more psychosis than ROFF (you must pretend that you are trying to eat his food or he will go 4-5 days without eating), his daddy was a long-haired miniture dachshund and mommy was a maltese.  So he is either a dachtese or a malhund.  I don’t need another.

Thanks.  Best laugh I’ve had in a week.  Nice to know someone has at least one pet crazier than most I’ve had. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

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Question:

 I am fishing in Hawaii for Bluefin trevally(omilu). I have had limited sucess and am fishing from shore.I have found areas that have them via. catches and snorkling. But the fish are particular, most days they chase the fly to the beach,only to stop shot of a complete strike.Other times they are just ON the hook and running. Is there anyone who could shed some lite on my short strikes.. Three days without a hook up,,,,, Jeff Brazda

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Hello Jeff, I have fished for them in Christmas Island south of Hawaii just above the equator where they are probably more plentiful and more aggressive. They like red/yellow streamers there most of the time. They like fly rod salt water poppers too. In a populated area, I would fish for them in the AM, PM and at night. With lower light levels they can be more aggressive. Also try to go places where no one else fishes. A boat would be an advantage to get to places that are not heavily fished. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am fishing in Hawaii for Bluefin trevally(omilu). I have had limited sucess and am fishing from shore.I have found areas that have them via. catches and snorkling. But the fish are particular, most days they chase the fly to the beach,only to stop shot of a complete strike.Other times they are just ON the hook and running. Is there anyone who could shed some lite on my short strikes.. Three days without a hook up,,,,, Jeff Brazda

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I am fishing in Hawaii for Bluefin trevally(omilu). I have had limited sucess and am fishing from shore.I have found areas that have them via. catches and snorkling. But the fish are particular, most days they chase the fly to the beach,only to stop shot of a complete strike.Other times they are just ON the hook and running. Is there anyone who could shed some lite on my short strikes.. Three days without a hook up,,,,, Jeff Brazda

Hello Jeff… I have had the same problem when fishing here in South Africa and Mozambique. The trick it seems is to use a fly (deceiver) with little flash. Just one or two strands of flashabou on the sides are sufficient. Best fly colours are chartreuse, then pink. Poppers are excellent, but if the fish are sitting in deep water, then they will rarely shoot up to the surface to hit the popper. Deceivers and a sinking line work best in this case. Also, the retrieve is as fast as you can. Hope this helps Regards Sudesh Pursad Bamba Flyfishing Adventures www.bamba.co.za Regards Sudesh Pursad Bamba Flyfishing Adventures www.bamba.co.za

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Question:

I did it! I went all the way around Manhattan in a kayak.

A well written and interesting trip report too! Thanks for sharing it with everyoneRich Before you buy.

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I did it! I went all the way around Manhattan in a kayak. <… Thanks for posting this. Always nice to hear of people making use of urban and rural waterways. The "in" thing to do in these parts is to drive for hours to a crowded government recreational area, queue at portages, and scramble for campsites stopping midafternoon, for a "wilderness" paddling experience. OTOH I can paddle all day on water in or close to the city and not see another paddler. Odd, isn’t it, when most cities are sited on major waterways and 80% of the population are city dwellers? Ditto.  I think that’s NEAT!  Let’s reclaim the waterways!

"Reclaiming" implies that paddlers owned the waterways to begin with. Paddle EVERYWHERE!

I vehemently disagree with this.  I’ve been flyfishing for about 30 years and have seen a lot of good fishing rivers become poor fishing rivers.  The Battenkill river *used* to be about the most famous flyfishing river in the country.  Now there are a couple of canoe outfitters that send down so many boats that’s it’s virtually unfishable most of the day.   Just as a jetskier can spoil the day of a paddler, a paddler can spoil the day of flyfisherman trying to enjoy the river partaking in his/her obsession. John Fereira Ithaca, NY

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OK, Rich. I’m going to have to drive to Manhattan from Chicago to do this with you next year!!! Seriously. Dave

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I did it! I went all the way around Manhattan in a kayak. A well written and interesting trip report too! Thanks for sharing it with everyoneRich Before you buy.

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I did it! I went all the way around Manhattan in a kayak. <… Thanks for posting this. Always nice to hear of people making use of urban and rural waterways. The "in" thing to do in these parts is to drive for hours to a crowded government recreational area, queue at portages, and scramble for campsites stopping midafternoon, for a "wilderness" paddling experience. OTOH I can paddle all day on water in or close to the city and not see another paddler. Odd, isn’t it, when most cities are sited on major waterways and 80% of the population are city dwellers?

Ditto.  I think that’s NEAT!  Let’s reclaim the waterways!  Paddle EVERYWHERE!  Paddle craft are just the way to do it, too: relatively portable, don’t need a big ol’ ramp to put ‘em in, don’t need lots of depth, suited for just about any type of waters.  In Boston, we have more and more people paddling on the Charles, and the water quality is improving every year.  In Lowell MA, Zoar Outdoor teamed up with the conservation d00ds to offer rafting trips on the Concord River during the spring flows — ending the trip in a lock!  The Boston Harbor islands, now a park, get visited constantly by seayakkers.   Even the little, overbuilt Muddy River at the end of my (soon to be former) block has an impressive array of wildlife (saw a great blue heron the other day).  The more we get people using the waterways, ALL the waterways and not just the obvious recreation destinations, the more people will care about them — and care for them.   — ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::         "I would not exchange the sorrows of my heart                 for the joys of the multitude"

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I did it! I went all the way around Manhattan in a kayak.

<… Thanks for posting this. Always nice to hear of people making use of urban and rural waterways. The "in" thing to do in these parts is to drive for hours to a crowded government recreational area, queue at portages, and scramble for campsites stopping midafternoon, for a "wilderness" paddling experience. OTOH I can paddle all day on water in or close to the city and not see another paddler. Odd, isn’t it, when most cities are sited on major waterways and 80% of the population are city dwellers? — National Capital FreeNet      www.ncf.ca     Ottawa’s free community network

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I did it! I went all the way around Manhattan in a kayak. It was the most physically difficult feat I have accomplished. I started kayaking on June 4th and have probably kayaked 50 hours on the Hudson since then (along with another 20 in Maine) and this trip was harder than all of it put together! When I did my first "long" tour it was a 10 mile, three hour round trip to the Statue of Liberty during which I really felt challenged and afterwards felt like I had a wallet-sized knot in my right buttock for a week! At the time that may have been the most physically challenging thing I’d done. The trip around Manhattan is a 28 mile trip that should take 6-9 hours. I was assured by the guides at Manhattan Kayak Company, who have come to know me, and I them, that I was ready for the trip and it should not be that difficult. You start off going south on the Hudson, against the current from 23rd street to the lower tip of Manhattan – the Battery. After you turn the bend and head north on the East river you have a very strong current with you and can travel faster than I have ever been on a kayak. Sometimes they outrun joggers on this stretch. After going about 10 miles with this current, you stop for lunch just before turning northwest to the Harlem river. This was supposed to be the hardest stretch, not because of currents or other water conditions, but because it was supposed to be "boring". After 5 miles of Harlem you stop again at the Columbia University Boathouse for lunch. After lunch, you scoot around the northern tip of the island and turn south on the Hudson, under the George Washington Bridge and 160 blocks to home with the current at your back. Difficult, tiring and surely a challenge, but timed correctly it is a most enjoyable ride and quite an accomplishment. Then there was my trip… Take-off was scheduled for 11:00AM. I got there my traditional 1 hour early to mull around, chat a bit and fit my boat. Our guides were Bob and Bonnie. Bob is a fun guy who is really fun to paddle with. Bonnie is exceedingly nice, complimentary and also a joy to be on the water with. Around 10:45 Bob seems a bit stressed. He tells me we’d better hurry up and get going because it turns out we’d be cutting it very close if we wanted to make it to Hellgate before the tide turns. You might guess by the name, Hellgate can be somewhat difficult to paddle. As I mentioned earlier, the East river has a very strong current. If the current is fully against you it is physically impossible to paddle up the river. Hellgate is a spot where the river gets very narrow, so water is funneled through and sped up greater than the speed one could paddle. Bob said we’d have to be at Hellgate by 1:06 or we’d be "Fu–ed". Now, Hellgate is approximately 40% of the way around the island, that’s around 12 miles in two hours starting off against a pretty strong current. It didn’t look good, but if we busted our buts and made it to the East river quickly we’d get that massive push up and possibly make it. We had a strong group. There was Gary, my paddling buddy who I had to canvas for about 3 weeks to sign up for this trip. There was Donna, a paddler of three years who hadn’t made this trip. Carol, a very nice woman from Seattle who was doing this for her 50th birthday as a challenge. John, another "regular" at MKC who made this trip a month ago in less than 7 hours. And finally there was a couple from Albuquerque New Mexico named Walter and Alison. Walter was obviously experienced and Alison was in a kayak for the fifth time. They were in a double and not at all to be worried about. And of course Bob and Bonnie, our guides. Bob spends a lot of time sideways on the water. He was never one to speed along, he is more of a meanderer. Bonnie grew up in Hawaii and has probably been paddling, rowing, or at least in the water her whole life. Both Bob and Bonnie have made this trip countless times. It looked OK. It would be tight, but we could pull it off according to Bob. As soon as we pulled out of the pier I noticed a stronger current that I was used to. Bob said it would be tough, and it was. We had to stay very close to the piers to avoid the stronger current in the main channel, as well as the many many boats in the water. The down-side of paddling so close to the piers was the danger of reflecting waves coming off the walls and potentially capsizing you. There were some challenging waves due to the strong wind and high traffic. It was a beautiful day. We were paddling hard, but not hard enough. Nobody really realized how slowly we were going for a few reasons. First, it took a good amount of concentration to stay upright and close to the piers. Aslo, the current pulled our boats toward the middle of the river, so as we were chatting and getting to know each other, we had to be constantly reminded by Bob to keep close to the shore where the current was weaker. However, the closer we were, the more we had to deal with the reflection waves. I am accustomed to dealing with the waves from the wind and passing boats. All it takes is loose hips, concentration and an occasional lean or slapping of the paddle to keep upright. With the waves coming from both sides, though, the leans were a bit more precarious and the concentration required a bit more intense. While we dealt with this strong current, larger than normal waves, reflecting waves, and oh yeah a very strong wind in our faces, the group split up a bit. Bonnie and Donna were a good quarter-mile behind us and out towards the middle of the channel. They were having too harrowing a time dealing with the multi-directional waves and decided to take on the current instead. This choice only widened the gap between them and us. Things were looking grim when we pulled into a small pier near Battery Park City to let Bonnie and Donna catch up and we realized it was 12:00. We still had to round the bend around the tip of Manhattan to make it to the East River Express. Bob could only laugh and reiterate how we were "Sooo Fu–ed" It looked like we would miss the tides in our favor and have to "eddy-hop" past Roosevelt Island, where the East River is split around 59th Street and the water funneled through two thinner channels. The hard part was almost over supposedly. Unfortunately, we were still pressed for time, so we decided to press on without Bonnie and Donna and meet up with them on the other side. We rounded the bend to southern Manhattan to be greeted by the choppiest water I have ever been in, as well as the most fun. Standing waves and an undulating sea that dumped gallons of water up my sleeves into my boat, into my face and all over. It took full concentration, many slapping braces and much time to get to a small protected area just before the ferry landing. Wow! was the collective sentiment. We thought this would be a good spot to hang out and wait for Bonnie and Donna. We waited for a while and again decided to press on because we still had the currents to worry about. Hellgate was missed, but if we didn’t hurry we’d be fighting the current up the East river and it might even turn too much against us before we made it to the Harlem river, in which case it would be too late and we’d have to… I don’t know what we’d have had to do. On we paddled. We crossed the ferries and dealt with the New York Harbor’s finest mish-mash of waves, chop and wind created by the confluence of the East and Hudson Rivers for another quarter to half mile until we were finally approaching the Brooklyn Bridge. Finally, the current at our backs! I made the mistake of asking Bob how that stretch we just passed compared to the other circumnavigation he’d done and he said it was definitely the hardest start, but we were only about a fifth of the way done and he went on to describe some horror stories about thunder storms and hail encountered in the next stretch. Each circumnavigation is its own story, and this one was still being written. We were now on the East River. It was my first time paddling over here. I was really looking forward to passing under all the East River bridges. The Brooklyn, Manhattan, Williamsburg, 59th street, Tri-borough. It was really an experience looking at them from that perspective. I noticed, at this time, the lack of assistance from the river. This was the stretch where I was told I’d be moving faster than I ever had before. We were with the current, but it was starting to change. Not only did we miss out on the joyous, easy East River surge, we had to fight it tooth and nail to make it to an unwelcoming Hellgate before the full strength of the tide and current were against us. We moved over to the east side of the river and began to "eddy-hop" like we were on the Hudson only a few hours earlier. By the time we got to the 59th street bridge we were fighting a serious current. As I was approaching the bridge, I came in directly behind the eastern support. The bridge was blocking the current for me, so I didn’t have to paddle that hard. Once I got to the bridge and had to leave the friendly eddy, as soon as I paddled into the current I was unpolitely turned south and had to paddle full strength to make any progress. There was a row of little floating balls on the side of the river right next to my boat. I was paddling 3 or 4 strokes for each ball I passed, which were about 2 feet apart. Wow! again. By around 3:00 or so we were approaching Randall and Ward’s Islands. This was Hellgate territory. It is at this spot where the waters of Long Island Sound come into the East river and the Harlem river begins. I just could not believe the current we were looking at. I was sure we were done. The water was pouring into and down the East River and I just couldn’t imagine being able to paddle against it. Once we got up close and surveyed the situation it turned out that we could go a little east of the Harlem river and ferry across. As soon as I entered the current I was promptly turned 45 degrees in the opposite … read more »

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Question:

What are your recommendations for the best magazines on fly fishing/tying available today? — John Rowley I It takes a big man to cry, but it takes a bigger man to laugh at that man. Jack Handy

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What are your recommendations for the best magazines on fly fishing/tying available today?

Warmwater Fly Fishing has a laid-back attitude that I like.  British mag Fly Fishing and Fly Tying typically has lots of utilitarian info.  Hard to say which is the best.  There’s usually only one or two items that I seem to be interested in in any given issue of magazines that I see. Mu

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Question:

Possible antique, wonderful addition to a collection or would make a great gift or starter kit for a young one. I do think this one is out of production. Old fly fishing rod, reel and case with a bag for the rod. All are in nice condition. Rod is off-white with red and black stripes and has a spiral pattern, a cork handle and is green where the reel attaches.  The reel is black and clicks when is goes around. Reminds me of going fishing with my dad years and years ago. The case is metal with a cork-lined lid that screws on. The lid reads A.A.W. CO. Peerless Newark, NJ There is also a cloth bag to protect the rod. I Honestly don’t know anything else about it so it’s kind of a gamble I guess? To see a photo please visit my auction. http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=202528070 Thanks for your time! Diana

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(snip) Thanks for your time! Diana

Oh God!  She’s got an old Peerless rod outfit and her name’s Diana! What to do!!??!! Wayne To fish is human…to release Divine.

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Oh God!  She’s got an old Peerless rod outfit and her name’s Diana! What to do!!??!!

  I followed the link, it looks like what she really has is a Shakespeare Wonderod with a Pflueger, lest my eyes deceive me.

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Ask her what color Mercedes she likes. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (snip) Thanks for your time! Diana Oh God!  She’s got an old Peerless rod outfit and her name’s Diana! What to do!!??!! Wayne To fish is human…to release Divine.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I followed the link, it looks like what she really has is a Shakespeare Wonderod with a Pflueger, lest my eyes deceive me.

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OK so its a Shakespeare.  :-{ Maybe she’s cute!!?? Wayne To fish is human…to release Divine. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I followed the link, it looks like what she really has is a Shakespeare Wonderod with a Pflueger, lest my eyes deceive me.

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Question:

Help save our migratory fishery.  I’ve heard that we should all throw a bale of straw into the Columbia River.  It seems the straw bales get soggy and take out gill nets, thus helping the fish to survive them. Does this really work or make sense as ‘a protest vote?’ — Mr. G. http://www.gink.com (World’s Best Dry Fly Dressing) http://www.rodbuilding.com (For the Serious Rod Builder) http://www.xink.com (World’s Best Wet Fly Sink)

Question:

great flyfishing in duck mountain prov park .rainbow,brooks, splake, brown, pike, arctic char.five hours from winnipeg manitoba canada by for more information .belly boat works best up here.

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Kennedy) writes: great flyfishing in duck mountain prov park .rainbow,brooks, splake, brown, pike, arctic char.five hours from winnipeg manitoba canada by for more information .belly boat works best up here.

Why would I want to fish in some dumb park like that when I’ve got access to the Au Sable, Manistee, Pidgeon, Jordan, Betsy, Escanaba, Pierre Marquette…unless of course it was another of the bullshit Spams trying to lie to us again. Wayne Knight Geneva IL                            

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Question:

     I have been fishing for about fourteen years now, since I was about three.  However, the fishing I have done has been either spinning or baitcasting for various types of fish in mostly still bodies of water, or small rivers.  I recently had the opportunity to try my hand at flyfishing for trout, something which had been somewhat frightened of due to its seemingly immense complexity. Since then, it has occured to me that there was a lot that I was limiting myself from flyfishing.  The result, I am interested in starting a.s.a.p.  I realize that there is a lot to learn, and that it may take a very long time to master, but i have plenty of time ahead of me and am quite eager to learn.      First, though, it seems to me that I should first purchase a rod and a reel.  This is where my first discrepancy arises.  Being that I am new to the sport, I am unsure as to what I should purchase.  i would be using the setup mainly for bass and trout, though primarily for bass due to the limited amount of good long-term trout waters in my area.  For reference, that would be Cleveland, OH.  What weight setup should I get?  I was wondering if there is a good medium which would work well on smaller ohio bass (around two pounds, give or take) and trout, perhaps even small steelhead.  It seemed that a seven weight might be adequate.      Anyhow, I am looking to spend around 200 dollars for a decent setup.  Now for my second question.  How should I set up my line?  From what I have gathered, it seems that it would be best to use either a weight forward or bass bug taper.  However, I am unsure as far as a leader and tippet goes.  It seems as if it might be best to get a couple of sizes, depending on the situation. What are your suggestions?      To sum up a rather lengthy post, I need to know what sort of setup to purchase, and what sort of leaders and tippets to employ.  All suggestions are appreciated. Thanks in advance Ron. By the way, please mail responses directly to my.

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i would be using the setup mainly for bass and trout, though primarily for bass due to the limited amount of good long-term trout waters in my area.  For reference, that would be Cleveland, OH.  What weight setup should I get?

I would suggest a seven weight rod, with a double taper  flyline. A weight forward line would be fine as well. Anyhow, I am looking to spend around 200 dollars for a decent setup.

At that price, you’ll find a great flyfishing setup. Don’t spend too much more yet; you need practice, not fancy equipment. However, I am unsure as far as a leader and tippet goes.  It seems as if it might be best to get a couple of sizes, depending on the situation. What are your suggestions?

Stroll down to your local FFing shop and ask them what they’d suggest. They’ll have the skinny on the local conditions, and if you’re lucky, someone will take you under his wing. However, I am unsure as far as a leader and tippet goes. It seems situation. Best of luck! Frank Longtine                             the Second Amendment was not, and is not, about 1984 Ford F-150                                  hunting rights. It was, and is, about 1997 Rokon Trail Breaker                       tyrranical governments.

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Question:

My step-dad and I are going to Weaverville on Saturday for some steelhead fishing.  Any advice from recent visitors?  Lures, places, approaches? Thanks in advance.  Dave in Anderson, CA

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This is probably late advice, but I’d stay home.   The river is muddy and fishing is slow. Instead of the Trinity, I’d go over to Lewiston Lake and flyfish that area.  Or…take a drive over to the Smith River as it’s still clear enough to fish and, I understand, that the salmon and steelhead are being cooperative.  Four good updated info on the Trinity, I’d call the Eureka Fly Shop at 444-2000 or the Redding Fly Shop (I don’t have their number). Barry Brown – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My step-dad and I are going to Weaverville on Saturday for some steelhead fishing.  Any advice from recent visitors?  Lures, places, approaches? Thanks in advance.  Dave in Anderson, CA

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