Question:

NRA FILES CIVIL RIGHTS SUIT On Tuesday, the National Rifle Association filed a civil rights lawsuit on behalf of 12-year-old Virginia NRA member Alan Newsom. The lawsuit charges the principal and vice-principal of the Jack Jouett Middle School and the Albemarle County (Va.) School Board Superintendent and Board members with violating Newsom’s First Amendment rights when they banned him from wearing an NRA Youth Sports Shooting Camp shirt, bearing NRA’s logo, to school last year. Newsom was forced to remove his T-shirt by the vice-principal and told to turn it inside out. She considered the shirt’s illustrations of individuals involved in shooting sports to violate school policy, even though at the time there was no rule that prohibited such clothing. When NRA notified school authorities that their action violated the student’ s civil rights, the school subsequently added a provision for the 2002-2003 school year barring any clothing associated with "weapons" and "violence." "The facts are clear. Alan Newsom was singled-out by the vice-principal because he was wearing an NRA T-shirt," said NRA’s Executive Vice-President Wayne LaPierre. "The T-shirt clearly depicts individuals involved in shooting sports. The images are in no way inappropriate or violent. This is a blatant infringement of young Alan’s constitutional rights. I was dumbfounded when I learned of the facts of this case after Alan’s parents contacted us, and didn’t hesitate to take up this challenge. I am proud to say that NRA stands proudly with this brave young man," LaPierre said. The lawsuit, which seeks $100,000 in damages and $50,000 in punitive damages plus legal costs, was filed in the U.S. Federal District Court for Western District of Virginia, Charlottesville Division. Among the 12 counts included in the federal suit are free speech and due process violations under federal and state constitutions. "NRA wholeheartedly supports the reasonable prohibition of images on clothing depicting violence in a school setting. However, to preclude a student from wearing an article of clothing because it may run counter to the viewpoints or political beliefs of some school officials is deplorable," LaPierre added. In Tinker v. Des Moines School District, the U.S. Supreme Court held "[i]n order for the State in the person of the school officials to justify prohibition of a particular expressed opinion, it must be able to show that its actions were caused by something more than a mere desire to avoid the discomfort and unpleasantness that always accompany an unpopular viewpoint." NRA’s lawsuit also challenges the ambiguity of the new school rule which will not only affect all NRA logos, but also the Great Seal of the United States, the United States Army logo, and the seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia-all with images of "weapons" that would fall within the prohibitions of the school’s new policy. "This is clearly a case of political-correctness running unchecked," LaPierre added. "Alan is a good student who has no disciplinary problems in school. He developed an affinity for shooting sports and his father enrolled him in a NRA Youth Safety Camp to learn basic firearm safety. Alan aspires to represent his country in the Olympics someday. The school authorities harassed and breached Alan’s First Amendment rights merely for his interest in the NRA and shooting sports." The lawsuit noted that, ironically, Jack Jouett Middle School is named for an American Revolutionary War hero who is known for his famous ride on June 3, 1781, in which despite the potential for personal peril, he rode through the night to warn Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and others that British troops were on their way to arrest patriots for signing the Declaration of Independence. In appreciation for this act of bravery, the Virginia Legislature awarded Captain Jack Jouett a sword and a pair of pistols. For more information on this case, and other cases that NRA-ILA is pursuing, please call (800) 392-8683.

Response:

where’s the fly fishing in this story? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – NRA FILES CIVIL RIGHTS SUIT On Tuesday, the National Rifle Association filed a civil rights lawsuit on behalf of 12-year-old Virginia NRA member Alan Newsom. The lawsuit charges the principal and vice-principal of the Jack Jouett Middle School and the Albemarle County (Va.) School Board Superintendent and Board members with violating Newsom’s First Amendment rights when they banned him from wearing an NRA Youth Sports Shooting Camp shirt, bearing NRA’s logo, to school last year. Newsom was forced to remove his T-shirt by the vice-principal and told to turn it inside out. She considered the shirt’s illustrations of individuals involved in shooting sports to violate school policy, even though at the time there was no rule that prohibited such clothing. When NRA notified school authorities that their action violated the student’ s civil rights, the school subsequently added a provision for the 2002-2003 school year barring any clothing associated with "weapons" and "violence." "The facts are clear. Alan Newsom was singled-out by the vice-principal because he was wearing an NRA T-shirt," said NRA’s Executive Vice-President Wayne LaPierre. "The T-shirt clearly depicts individuals involved in shooting sports. The images are in no way inappropriate or violent. This is a blatant infringement of young Alan’s constitutional rights. I was dumbfounded when I learned of the facts of this case after Alan’s parents contacted us, and didn’t hesitate to take up this challenge. I am proud to say that NRA stands proudly with this brave young man," LaPierre said. The lawsuit, which seeks $100,000 in damages and $50,000 in punitive damages plus legal costs, was filed in the U.S. Federal District Court for Western District of Virginia, Charlottesville Division. Among the 12 counts included in the federal suit are free speech and due process violations under federal and state constitutions. "NRA wholeheartedly supports the reasonable prohibition of images on clothing depicting violence in a school setting. However, to preclude a student from wearing an article of clothing because it may run counter to the viewpoints or political beliefs of some school officials is deplorable," LaPierre added. In Tinker v. Des Moines School District, the U.S. Supreme Court held "[i]n order for the State in the person of the school officials to justify prohibition of a particular expressed opinion, it must be able to show that its actions were caused by something more than a mere desire to avoid the discomfort and unpleasantness that always accompany an unpopular viewpoint." NRA’s lawsuit also challenges the ambiguity of the new school rule which will not only affect all NRA logos, but also the Great Seal of the United States, the United States Army logo, and the seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia-all with images of "weapons" that would fall within the prohibitions of the school’s new policy. "This is clearly a case of political-correctness running unchecked," LaPierre added. "Alan is a good student who has no disciplinary problems in school. He developed an affinity for shooting sports and his father enrolled him in a NRA Youth Safety Camp to learn basic firearm safety. Alan aspires to represent his country in the Olympics someday. The school authorities harassed and breached Alan’s First Amendment rights merely for his interest in the NRA and shooting sports." The lawsuit noted that, ironically, Jack Jouett Middle School is named for an American Revolutionary War hero who is known for his famous ride on June 3, 1781, in which despite the potential for personal peril, he rode through the night to warn Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and others that British troops were on their way to arrest patriots for signing the Declaration of Independence. In appreciation for this act of bravery, the Virginia Legislature awarded Captain Jack Jouett a sword and a pair of pistols. For more information on this case, and other cases that NRA-ILA is pursuing, please call (800) 392-8683.

Response:

Question:

Fished my favorite local stream today.  Testing out the back after the new treatment.  WOO WOO!  Fished for five hours and my only complaint was cold feet (as in, "who switched my feet for these bricks"). Got to the Patapsco, below Daniels Dam (Old Fredrick Rd turnout) at about 8 a.m.  Water was 48 degrees, air about 50, foggy with a light breeze. I walked up to my favorite pool and started casting a size 14 wooly bugger. After two 10 inch stocker rainbows in the riffle, I started up a conversation with an older gentleman on the walking path.  Turns out that he is a "retired" fly fisherman who can no longer wade due to two artificial hips and some heart problems.  The sun had come out and he pointed out some fish rising in the next pool down.  He then "guided" me into position by spotting my traverse across the stream.  I stayed wonderfully dry because of him. With his advice, I got into perfect position behind a rock.  I was high enough out of the water to make a decent cast, but shielded from the fishes view by the rock.  There were about twenty fish rising in a 20 foot circle. I looked on the water and saw some tiny size 30 black gnats floating by. Well, didn’t have anything that small, so settled on a 22 Griffiths Gnat. No dice.  They splashed all around it.  I retied on the black wooly bugger, but again, no joy.  I then remembered a fly in my box that I learned about whilst inspecting the Pirate’s Dry Fly Larder (the man will never again have to tie a dry).  It was a size 16 parachute Hare’s Ear.  Chaching!  These guys couldn’t get enough of it.  About every third to fifth cast I was into another fish.  One fish was still bleeding slightly in the other side of the mouth from where I had hooked him before. Man, I love stupid fish.  Even got a very confused smallie (still had his winter coat on). When the action slowed down, I looked up and the gentleman was still there, sitting on a log.  I offered him my rod, but he refused.  He didn’t buy a license and was "adding a bit of English to my casts."  We chatted for a bit more and then the fish started rising again.  When action eased, I looked up and he was gone.  I want to thank him and all other "stream side angels." He was indeed fishing without a license, but my license worked for him, because I became his arms and legs for just a bit.  My cast straightened out, my fly selection was spot on and the fish were fearless.  I firmly believe that more than words pass between master and apprentice and today, while fishing that little circle of fish, that connection with this nameless gentleman, with the Pirate, with old Floyd Turnbull who took me fishing as a kid, and many, many others, was made. I sat on that pool all morning.  Others came by and said those were the only rising fish in two miles of river.  I sat on a rock and had my sandwich with my line in the water (still my pool, dammit!).  While sitting there, a huge (for the Patapsco) trout, about 18-20 inches, flashed about ten feet out from the rock.  I sat there for a 45 minutes casting everything in my flybox, hare’s ears, pheasant tails, wooly buggers, usuals, biots, nothing worked, even though he continued to flash and dart around.  That ethereal link was still there, but there are some fish that you aren’t meant to catch. A front came through at about one o’clock, clouds, sprinkles and wind.  Shut the fish down.  I didn’t mind.  I’d had a good morning, the fishing lust was sated, and I had reached a new level in my relationship with the water, and, my past. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

……a "retired" fly fisherman who can no longer wade due to two artificial hips and some heart problems.  The sun had come out and he pointed out some fish rising in the next pool down.  He then "guided" me into position by spotting my traverse across the stream…….

What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s

Response:

Fished my favorite local stream today.  Testing out the back after the new treatment.

        (snip)         i am once again reminded of the best argument for the existence of this group–gifts such as that i snipped, above. your friend in the old north state wayno

Response:

Frank Reid wrote…

<snipped a wonderful TR A front came through at about one o’clock, clouds, sprinkles and wind.  Shut the fish down.  I didn’t mind.  I’d had a good morning, the fishing lust was sated, and I had reached a new level in my relationship with the water, and, my past.

Thanks for sharing that Frank.  Gems like that are what keep me coming back here. — Warren Henry’s Fork Clave info and Bozeman, MT fishing info www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt

Response:

but there are some fish that you aren’t meant to catch.

Boy, that’s an evocative line…thanks for the TR, Frank. – Sid

Response:

What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s

To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank

Response:

What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank

See, that’s what we love about this place…….no question asked in good faith will go unanswered!     Wolfgang

Response:

What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank

Something tells me she’d insist on a strong pre-nup…

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What greater ambition for a fly fisher than to BE that old man? Wolfgang see you at penn’s To BE that old fly fisher and married to Anna Nicole Smith for her money?         Frank Something tells me she’d insist on a strong pre-nup…

Anything she wants!! Scott

Response:

Fished my favorite local stream today.  

Great story, Frank. That was a special day that I’ll think will stay with you. Willi

Response:

Question:

All apologies if the answer is in an FAQ…I couldn’t find on for this NG. I’ll be on the Rogue river in OR this month, and would like to try fly fishing.  I’m a fairly learned baitcasting guy. Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, and am looking at a Cortland (http://www.cbsmall.com/cgi-bin/webc.exe/discountfishinginc/st_prod.ht… rodid=130&p_catid=16&sid=4Wi2mP01630e2xz-27100614880.92) for $150 and this Cahill (http://thestore.alloutdoors.com/productfamily.asp?dept=1&category=103… cat=10325&pf=40193&sid=&shopperid=F2R1KL5P97S92LPH00A3HLDGRM5A3TBD) for $65. Any suggestions about brands, what to look for, how much is reasonable to spend would be appreciated.  I’m going to the local Galyan’s tomorrow.  I’d like to think I could try the hobby for $150…is that reasonable? Thanks! Scott

Response:

Yes it is entirely reasonable Scott. St Croix has the Legend series of fly rods for around $100, I own 3 of them and entirely satisfied with them all. There are several of us on this NG who have "discovered" Cabela’s 3 Forks and Stowaway series flyrods. I can tell you that I have extensively tested all my 3 Forks and Stowaways and they are well worth the money. Probably the best dollar for dollar buy on fly rods anywhere. Since you are new at this flyrodding business, a slower action rod would be the best choice for you, and the Cabela’s rods are slow action rods.  You will be fishing for trout on the Rogue (presumably) I would recommend a 5 wt 9 footer.  St Croix carries this in One other piece of advice, you can get a good reel these days for around $40 and up, and that’s really all you need, but get a decent quality line.  Hope this helps. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – All apologies if the answer is in an FAQ…I couldn’t find on for this NG. I’ll be on the Rogue river in OR this month, and would like to try fly fishing.  I’m a fairly learned baitcasting guy. Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, and am looking at a Cortland (http://www.cbsmall.com/cgi-bin/webc.exe/discountfishinginc/st_prod.ht… p rodid=130&p_catid=16&sid=4Wi2mP01630e2xz-27100614880.92) for $150 and this Cahill (http://thestore.alloutdoors.com/productfamily.asp?dept=1&category=103… b cat=10325&pf=40193&sid=&shopperid=F2R1KL5P97S92LPH00A3HLDGRM5A3TBD) for $65. Any suggestions about brands, what to look for, how much is reasonable to spend would be appreciated.  I’m going to the local Galyan’s tomorrow.  I’d like to think I could try the hobby for $150…is that reasonable? Thanks! Scott

Response:

Welcome to flyfishing Scott.  If you want a very economical starter set, I would suggest a Pflueger Purist 5 or 6 wt 8 1/2′ rod from Kmart or GI Joe’s for about $45 and a Pflueger Medalist reel (about $30?) or an Okuma Sierra (for $39 from www.Ezyflyfish.com), and a Cortland Fair Play fly line to match the rod.  All for well under a $100.  The rods are surprisingly good performers compared to anything I’ve tried for under $100.  I agree with the idea of renting or borrowing some equipment first, if possible, and also taking some flycasting lessons. Good Luck flyfishing, Pat K * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

John, I got the beer, but where’s my steak? — Opie  –Planning for the Past–

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …this is by far the best……spend three c-notes on a half a day’s fishing with a lot of instruction and a person in your frame of mind will save a lot of money in the long run…..buy the guide a beer and a sandwich or steak afterwards and keep you ears open!……john Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, You know, there is another possibility here.  A lot of fly shops out here have rental equipment.  I would check around and find a fly shop that offers some rentals and go in there.  Chances are that you can rent equipment and perhaps get some free casting lessons while you try out rods.  That would free up some money for flies, tippet, ect while keeping the costs down to a minimum in case you don’t like fly fishing. Warren X#-[ Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

I’ve been watching this thread pretty close and it has come to my attention that more well thought out posts are now being offered. There are a great many more posts that recommend low cost great for beginners starter kits like the Cabelas line and a lot less of the "what do you want to fish for and where" along with the "get what fits you" and "The better you learn with, the better you’ll be (meaning spend a bundle on a fast long rod.) The last of which is pure BS. A beginner needs a rod that will let him feel loading and allow him time to react, is forgiving of off timing and minor foepas. Is not expensive to buy leaving enough for vet flys etc. is short enough not to tangle in tree limbs. Last but not least is a combination that is still of use even after the graduation up to the faster longer rods as expertise grows. The best advice is to amass all the mail order catalogs you can get. Study them, Then purchase a starter combo that is slow, short , and pleases your eye. By the way the reel is important unless you are fishing for shinners. John Popp

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, You know, there is another possibility here.  A lot of fly shops out here have rental equipment.  I would check around and find a fly shop that offers some rentals and go in there.  Chances are that you can rent equipment and perhaps get some free casting lessons while you try out rods.  That would free up some money for flies, tippet, ect while keeping the costs down to a minimum in case you don’t like fly fishing. Warren X#-[ Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

The FAQ page can be found on the new ROFF page.  The link is bellow.  A lot of other good ROFF information is also on the page.  Enjoy.  :-) BTW, I like the Cabela’s rods for the buck.  Check out http://www.cabelas.com/texis/scripts/store/+/CatalogDisplay/displayPOD/C abFALL1998/CabFALL1998AVATAA/IA495C They are in your price range and would be a good starting point. However you should know that after you’re hooked, you might want something that cost a little bit more and that fits your particular fishing style. — Vern The new ROFF page: http://home.earthlink.net/~flyfishing4fun "Wilderness needs no defense, only more defenders"                             quote by Edward Abbey All apologies if the answer is in an FAQ…I couldn’t find on for this NG. (snip) Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, and am looking at a Cortland for $150 and this Cahill (snip)… I’d like to think I could try the hobby for $150…is that reasonable?

YES Thanks! Scott

Before you buy.

Response:

…this is by far the best……spend three c-notes on a half a day’s fishing with a lot of instruction and a person in your frame of mind will save a lot of money in the long run…..buy the guide a beer and a sandwich or steak afterwards and keep you ears open!……john

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, You know, there is another possibility here.  A lot of fly shops out here have rental equipment.  I would check around and find a fly shop that offers some rentals and go in there.  Chances are that you can rent equipment and perhaps get some free casting lessons while you try out rods.  That would free up some money for flies, tippet, ect while keeping the costs down to a minimum in case you don’t like fly fishing. Warren X#-[ Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

All apologies if the answer is in an FAQ…I couldn’t find on for this NG.

There is a FAQ somewhere, but the best advice on ROFF is "DUCK!" and "Be afraid, be very afraid…"  <G.  Seriously, a FAQ on this would be kinda useless, as there are many opinions.  You know what they say about opinions and assholes?   Well, ROFF is ground zero…<G. I’ll be on the Rogue river in OR this month, and would like to try fly fishing.  I’m a fairly learned baitcasting guy.

Oregon?  There are some here that will be a great help, I’m sure. Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo, and am looking at a Cortland (http://www.cbsmall.com/cgi-bin/webc.exe/discountfishinginc/st_prod.ht… rodid=130&p_catid=16&sid=4Wi2mP01630e2xz-27100614880.92) for $150 and this Cahill (http://thestore.alloutdoors.com/productfamily.asp?dept=1&category=103… cat=10325&pf=40193&sid=&shopperid=F2R1KL5P97S92LPH00A3HLDGRM5A3TBD) for $65.

JMO, but I wouldn’t buy your first rod via mail order.  Trying to buy a rod/reel this way is like saying "I like blue.  Please send blue pants." You really need to actually feel, handle, and optimally, cast the rod, especially as a novice. Any suggestions about brands, what to look for, how much is reasonable to spend would be appreciated.  I’m going to the local Galyan’s tomorrow.  I’d like to think I could try the hobby for $150…is that reasonable?

Well, again, JMO, but you did ask:  Is that reasonable?  Yes.  Possible? Yes.  Likely?  Depends.  Confused?  Sorry.  Seriously, it is related to the advice above in that you need to find a rod you like, and you might like a 20.00 rod or you might like a 2000.00 rod.   If your situation is such that money is no object, then buy what you like, period, be it 20.00 or 2000.00.  IMO, any synthetic rod over about 200.00 is priced for reasons other than "cost," i.e. seat and handle hardware, finish, guides, name, handwork, warranty, etc., and is a "value to buyer" situation.  This is OK, just understand what your money is buying. If you need/want to stay on a budget (or just have a frugal streak), go get a cheapo rod and reel (if you buy a "Starter Set," you will likely need another line) at WalMart/KMart or get something used, like at a pawn shop, in the appropriate size.  Why?  Simple: you likely don’t know what you like, and having no experience to go on, won’t know cheap from expensive, or even if you like the sport, so why risk any more than needed to check it out?  I’ll say JMO, but I’d doubt any could prove me wrong: A 20.00 flyrod can have, and usually does have, more in common with a 1000.00 rod than a novice would think, same for a 15.00 versus a 600.00 reel (learning, practice, freshwater, and, generally, fish under 15ish pounds), but a 15.00 line is not likely even close to 40.00 line. A 1500.00 rig will not be easier or faster to learn on, nor will it necessarily be "better" for a particular person.  Buy a good DT (Double Taper) line for practice because when you wear one end out _practicing_(hint, hint), you can reverse it and have a "new line."  A WF (Weight Forward) would seem a waste here, but YMMV. Also, JMO: you can teach yourself, but lessons from a pro or experienced flyrodder can be invaluable and will likely speed things up.  This is where some "budgeting" might come in: If a shop you like and feel you trust offers free classes for new customers, but charges for non-customers, that might figure into the above "cheapo" advice, and would likely be worth figuring in. HTH? TC, R – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Scott

Response:

Problem is, I’ve no equipment.  I’d like to buy a starter combo,

You know, there is another possibility here.  A lot of fly shops out here have rental equipment.  I would check around and find a fly shop that offers some rentals and go in there.  Chances are that you can rent equipment and perhaps get some free casting lessons while you try out rods.  That would free up some money for flies, tippet, ect while keeping the costs down to a minimum in case you don’t like fly fishing. Warren X#-[

Trout Dwellers Unite! Western Conclave Guru For info: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/wclave/wclave.html

Response:

Question:

    Has anyone out there in cyber space had any experience fishing in Alaska. What I am looking for is a place that has a lodge setting. All I want do do is fish, not camp , cook , or clean. I have had a lot of experience doing this in Canada. But the fishing has to be great. If you have a recommandation please give a address and Tele #.  Thanks — Posted via Talkway – http://www.talkway.com Exchange ideas on practically anything ™.

Response:

I have fished out of one lodge for 3 or 4 trips now. They are a budget deal. Accomodations are spartan but quite adequate. Anything with hot showers and a warm bed is great at the end of a long, rainy day on the stream. The owners are good people and the travel arrangements are very easy as they are located right on the airport, about 30′ from the Alaska Airlines terminal. Fishing is drive out and vehicles are part of the package. Fly out is available and we did have to use it last year as the fishing got slow. One guided day is part of our package. You can do it on your own after that or buy more guide time. If you are not using a guide you clean your own fish. We go in early Sept. for Silvers (Coho), fish the streams on foot using fly rods with a baitcaster rigged with spoons as backup. Seldom use the baitcaster anymore but always take it. If you would like more info I can email a sheet I did for others.

Response:

Question:

207-882-5504 This is the number from the Messing About in Boats resource page. Call Platt in the morning Maine time. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – P. Shannon, I just received Monfort’s Geodesic catalog and was hoping you’d answer  Could you please tell me where you got the catalog… telephone # and or address. Thanks Ron

Response:

P. Shannon, I just received Monfort’s Geodesic catalog and was hoping you’d answer  Could you please tell me where you got the catalog… telephone # and or address.

Thanks Ron

Response:

Monfort’s Geodesic catalog and was hoping you’d answer  Could you please tell me where you got the catalog… telephone # and or address.

Take a look at the website: www.geodesicairoliteboats.com Bill Graham "If you can’t find time to do it right, when are you going to find time to do it again?"

Response:

Check out www.hobiecat.com  Look at the float cats.  Lightweight, 21~33 lbs, Packable come with backpack straps, compact.  They will fit in the trunk (boot) of a car.
They are also priced very right.  You can UPS ship them anywhere, so you don’t need to carry them as luggage, and you wont need to purchase a roof rack.    -**** Posted from remarQ, Discussions Start Here(tm) ****- http://www.remarq.com/ – Host to the the World’s Discussions & Usenet

Response:

check this out….. www.folbot.com/aleut.htm extremely stable  light, ample room, carry and set up ANYWHERE (air line luggage) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The smallest canoe that I am familiar with is the Old Town Pack.  It is a one man and yes there is a set in it.  I think it’s in the 30 to 40 pound range.  This may work good for you.  There is one other boat I would like to recommend.  I work with a professional fly fisherman.  He taught for years and years.  This man will highly recommend buying a Wilderness Systems Pungo kayak and so will I.  This is an excellent fly fishing / knock around boat and is extremely stable.  He takes his everywhere including the ocean and will fish out of it there too.  I know there are other options but I can’t think of any at this moment.  If you want to call and ask any questions about the Pungo and fly fishing out of it, call (770) 992-3200 between 10am and 7pm eastern standard time Monday thru Friday and ask for Ben.  He’ll answer all of your questions. Courtney Rapid Adventures I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.  Do NOT want to kneel on the floor. Suggestions please!! Paul Koulouris Shelburne, Vermont "The true joy of pursuing trout is that they live in such beautiful places"

Response:

If you’re willing to build it yourself you should investigate Platt Monfort’s geodesic aerolite designs.  I have a 14 foot canoe that weighs 20 pounds even.  I sit on the floor and paddle it like a kayak.  It’s huge and stable and would hold lots of fish.  There’s also a 12 foot version, and a 12 food wide version especially designed for fly fishing.  It took me about 60 hours of work to build mine. Michael Bateman – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.  Do NOT want to kneel on the floor. Suggestions please!!

Response:

Michael, I just received Monfort’s Geodesic catalog and was hoping you’d answer a few questions about building one of his designs.  I was looking at building the smallest canoe (7′5" Sweet Pea) for my 10 yr old.  I figured something light enough for him to handle and load would be the perfect way to let him enjoy ownership of his own boat and get him out on the water for a little solo splashing about. Did you buy either any of the kits (partial materials or plywood parts) or did you procure the materials yourself? And do you think the instruction is complete enough for a woodworking novice to complete a boat without getting into too much trouble? If all goes well I’m threatening to build a SnowShoe 14 for my own flyfishing use. Thanks for your time, -P. Shannon – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you’re willing to build it yourself you should investigate Platt Monfort’s geodesic aerolite designs.  I have a 14 foot canoe that weighs 20 pounds even.  I sit on the floor and paddle it like a kayak.  It’s huge and stable and would hold lots of fish.  There’s also a 12 foot version, and a 12 food wide version especially designed for fly fishing.  It took me about 60 hours of work to build mine. Michael Bateman I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.  Do NOT want to kneel on the floor. Suggestions please!!

Response:

    Two boats that come to mind are the Mohawk Solo-13 (or Solo-14 slightly larger) and the Old Town Pack, about 11 1/2 feet.  All are in the mid 30 pound range.  The Solos paddle beautifully but I’m not sure about standing in them while casting.  The Pack is wider, hence a bit more stable.    BTW, get the OT in royalex, not crosslink. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.  Do NOT want to kneel on the floor. Suggestions please!! Paul Koulouris Shelburne, Vermont "The true joy of pursuing trout is that they live in such beautiful places"

Response:

I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.  Do NOT want to kneel on the floor.   Suggestions please!! Paul Koulouris Shelburne, Vermont "The true joy of pursuing trout is that they live in such beautiful places"

Response:

The smallest canoe that I am familiar with is the Old Town Pack.  It is a one man and yes there is a set in it.  I think it’s in the 30 to 40 pound range.  This may work good for you.  There is one other boat I would like to recommend.  I work with a professional fly fisherman.  He taught for years and years.  This man will highly recommend buying a Wilderness Systems Pungo kayak and so will I.  This is an excellent fly fishing / knock around boat and is extremely stable.  He takes his everywhere including the ocean and will fish out of it there too.  I know there are other options but I can’t think of any at this moment.  If you want to call and ask any questions about the Pungo and fly fishing out of it, call (770) 992-3200 between 10am and 7pm eastern standard time Monday thru Friday and ask for Ben.  He’ll answer all of your questions. Courtney Rapid Adventures – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.  Do NOT want to kneel on the floor. Suggestions please!! Paul Koulouris Shelburne, Vermont "The true joy of pursuing trout is that they live in such beautiful places"

Response:

Paul, I saw a Lincoln kevlar 12′6" today at Blue Mtn. outfitters. Gorgeous but not inexpensive. I am sure the boat will be in the weight class you are seeking. They are in Marysville, Pa. Ron Paint Island Canoe & Kayak http://www.riversport.com/paintisland/

Response:

I believe Old Town has on for abour 500.00, that does what you want. Mike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am continuing to look for a single canoe that can be carried into ponds away from the beaten path. 30 lb range.

Response:

Paul, I use a Mad River Winooskie for solo paddling with my fly rod. It is Kevlar and very lightweight. But it’s also quite wide. It’s designed for two people who want to do more in a canoe than just paddle so it is a very stable craft. I found that casting from a sitting position is a breeze and when I stand up the fish scurry off in a hurry. I hope you find something soon as Spring is almost here. Rich

Response:

Question:

I am not sure about loading the boat solo.  Its not so much the weight but

I’ve just switched canoes from an Old Town to a handmade wooden one. The wooden one weighs at least 20 pounds less, but is too hard to handle completely well alone in getting it off the truck and back on the sawhorses, so I’ve been paddling for overnights in the tiny Otter, with stuff strapped on deck.  Otter fits in my truck bed on a diagonal.  The new canoe is 18 feet and the fore/aft wobble and so forth and need to try to keep the wood safe is just more work than the weight loss is worth.  I’ll probably be selling it next year. The Old Towns are wonderful.  You don’t have to worry about dents.  I used to take that thing off my car (lousy arm strength) by looking over to my right to be sure there was nothing pointy and tip/flipping it off.  As people would stare, I’d smile and say, "It’s a Old Town." and go get the rest of my gear out of my trunk.  I even used to be able to get it on top of my truck by doing the crawl under, lift bow, set bow on top of truck and shove until it was in the right position. I did that on a well used Old Town for 10 years and it was in about the same shape when I handed it on as it was when I bought it.  Faded more, though, and one long nasty scratch that has to be fixed by the new owner. So go for the Old Town, even a bit heavy, if you don’t mind some unconventional on and off vehicle moves.  I’m 5′4" and out of shape and if I could do it, darn near anyone can.  Oh, yeah, middlel-aged, too.  However, if I could find a 40 pound kevlar at a price I could afford, I’d be on it like a shot. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -the size could get tough.  I carry it myself but its helpful having my son guide the back as I load it on and off.  But that may just be me…your coleman seemed to be heavier. I’m now back in the market and looking for an all-purpose boat to cover the following usage: 65% fishing (with electric or tiny outboard) 30% flatwater paddling (maybe day trips or overnights) 5% "whitewater" (certainly ning more than a class 2+) ty. er) It seems to me that Old Town makes more general purpose boats than the other manufacturers, let me know if I am wrong. Woodbury, MN

—– I only answer my email every few months, on average.   Patience helps.   http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

If I bought a Discovery I’d buy the 169.  Its patterned on their "tripper" which is a great boat.  A friend has the 169 and it seems decent. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Old Town Discovery 160K Old Town Discovery 133K Old Town Discovery 147 (current front runner)

Response:

Try before you buy…saying that… I had the same requirements you had except I also have a requirement of bringing my son along with me.  I went with the Mad River Revelation.  It does everything you want.  Its about 78 pounds, 17ft, and very stable also its expensive.  I fly fish out of it and its very comfortable to have my son in the front and me in the back.  It is amazingly comfortable to paddle over the lakes we fish.  It easily fits four for day trip though I have not tried camping out of it yet.  The electric motor is nice but because we enjoyed paddling it so much we use it only for trolling. I have not tried white water but have heard of others having no problems. I am not sure about loading the boat solo.  Its not so much the weight but the size could get tough.  I carry it myself but its helpful having my son guide the back as I load it on and off.  But that may just be me…your coleman seemed to be heavier. Good luck. John – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Back in the early 80’s I canoed quite a bit.  Yes, I was a teenager, broke and naive, and bought a 15′ Coleman.  (Yada, yada, yada).  I enjoyed that, fished the heck out of it, camped out of it some and ran a few rapids I probably shouldn’t have. I’m now back in the market and looking for an all-purpose boat to cover the following usage: 65% fishing (with electric or tiny outboard) 30% flatwater paddling (maybe day trips or overnights) 5% "whitewater" (certainly ning more than a class 2+) Now I certainly don’t expect to find something that shines at everything. I had originally decided to do something square-sterned but decided that a double-ended boat would be more versatile.  I want to favor fishing since that will be my heaviest usage.  Tracking well under power would be important so I’m assuming a flat or slightly rockeredboat would be appropriate.  I might also row when fishing solo.  I will fish out of it a lot solo so ease of car topping is also important ( I used to do my Coleman alone and I think the 15′ I had was about 85 lbs).  But I want the ability to hold two for fishing comfortably, or hold three on a day or overnight paddle.  I favor plastic boats for cost and durability. I’m hoping the experts here can help. What have I come up with?  My best guesses so far are: Old Town Discovery 160K Old Town Discovery 133K Old Town Discovery 147 (current front runner) It seems to me that Old Town makes more general purpose boats than the other manufacturers, let me know if I am wrong. Let me know what you think. Thanks a lot, Keith Hatfull Woodbury, MN

Response:

Back in the early 80’s I canoed quite a bit.  Yes, I was a teenager, broke and naive, and bought a 15′ Coleman.  (Yada, yada, yada).  I enjoyed that, fished the heck out of it, camped out of it some and ran a few rapids I probably shouldn’t have. I’m now back in the market and looking for an all-purpose boat to cover the following usage: 65% fishing (with electric or tiny outboard) 30% flatwater paddling (maybe day trips or overnights) 5% "whitewater" (certainly ning more than a class 2+) Now I certainly don’t expect to find something that shines at everything.  I had originally decided to do something square-sterned but decided that a double-ended boat would be more versatile.  I want to favor fishing since that will be my heaviest usage.  Tracking well under power would be important so I’m assuming a flat or slightly rockeredboat would be appropriate.  I might also row when fishing solo.  I will fish out of it a lot solo so ease of car topping is also important ( I used to do my Coleman alone and I think the 15′ I had was about 85 lbs).  But I want the ability to hold two for fishing comfortably, or hold three on a day or overnight paddle.  I favor plastic boats for cost and durability. I’m hoping the experts here can help. What have I come up with?  My best guesses so far are: Old Town Discovery 160K Old Town Discovery 133K Old Town Discovery 147 (current front runner) It seems to me that Old Town makes more general purpose boats than the other manufacturers, let me know if I am wrong. Let me know what you think. Thanks a lot, Keith Hatfull Woodbury, MN

Response:

Old Town is OK but consider a Mad River Explorer in Royalex.  They cost a bit more, but have more stability, and load carrying capacity.  They can handle any reasonable whitewater. (The first  open canoe down the Grand Canyon was Jim Shelander’s explorer. )

Response:

If you can take the time paddle every boat that is recommended to you. I am totally biased but I don’t think you will find a better boat for your described purpose than a Dagger Sewannee. 15 feet, reasonably light, and paddles better than you will believe until you try it. Go with the three seat version and venture  into only very mild whitewater in any of this type of  boat. There should be a description at www.Dagger.com Steve Scarborough

Response:

Question:

Does anyone know how good the fishing is NJ. Also where would be some of the better spots. I won’t be back there for another 10 months. I have taken it up here in Alaska and I don’t know what I would if I had to give up this new passion of mine. — Ralph Muro TwinTech "Laws that forbid the carrying of arms…disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes… Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man." -Thomas Jefferson

Response:

i live in nj and can tell you that there are some really hot spots,then i read your little proclamation about guns. having been shot by some idiot in the past i think i’ll keep the honey hole to myself, and keep you gun toting kooks away.

Response:

Hey Mickey, I leave near NJ, in Philly, and Have a house in Browns Mills NJ.. What are some of the Hot spots. Please send some E-Mail. -Steve — I think a good product would be "Baby Duck Hat". It’s a fake baby duck, which you strap on top of your head. Then you go swimming underwater until you find a mommy duck and her babies, and you join them. Then, all of a sudden, you stand up out of the water and roar like Godzilla. Man, those ducks really take off! Also, Baby Duck Hat is good for parties. -Steve – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -i live in nj and can tell you that there are some really hot spots,then i read your little proclamation about guns. having been shot by some idiot in the past i think i’ll keep the honey hole to myself, and keep you gun toting kooks away.

Response:

Question:

In a couple of weeks I’m going to British Columbia (Chilko Lake/Tsy-los park). One of the fishing opportunities there is fishing on a mountain lake for Dolly Varden. I’ve been told to bring a sinking line. I have never used a sinking line and find there are a wide variety of brands and sink rates available. Can anyone advise me on which line type would be the best for this setting? Thanks! Steve Rosenblum

Response:

In a couple of weeks I’m going to British Columbia (Chilko Lake/Tsy-los park). One of the fishing opportunities there is fishing on a mountain lake for Dolly Varden. I’ve been told to bring a sinking line. I have never used a sinking line and find there are a wide variety of brands and sink rates available. Can anyone advise me on which line type would be the best for this setting? Thanks! Steve Rosenblum

Hi Steve! Depends on the depth–and this is no wisecrack answer.  A lot of my lake fishing is done in water less than 8 feet deep and I like to fish out a cast.  So, my favorite lake sinking line is a slow sink (I think scientific Anglers calls it an imtermediate line.I can use this line because I generally dont fish deep lakes when the water is warm and the fish less active.  If you fish deeper you need a line with a faster sink rate.  The make a bunch of them. If I were guessing, I would go for a wet cel II line–it will get down relatively fast, but dont plan on fishing 30 feet down with it!! Also, I prefer full sinking lines for lake fishing–personal preference, but I fish slow and deep and sinking tip lines tend to drag with the wind across the top of the water. Best Luck!! Paul

Response:

In a couple of weeks I’m going to British Columbia (Chilko Lake/Tsy-los park). One of the fishing opportunities there is fishing on a mountain lake for Dolly Varden. I’ve been told to bring a sinking line. I have never used a sinking line and find there are a wide variety of brands and sink rates available. Can anyone advise me on which line type would be the best for this setting?

Hi Steve, I like to use a type II sinking line for fishing around 10 ft. deep, a type III for 10 to 15 and a type V (don’t do this often) for 20+ ft. of depth.  Of course, I am kind of impatient and I hate long countdowns to get to the fish.   Keep in mind that the speed of the retrieve you use will also have an effect on how deep your fly actually swims.   A quickly retrieved type III will often fish at the same depth as a slow to medium retrieve on a type II.  See if you can find out the depth that you will most often be fishing at this lake (not the depth of the lake, but rather the depth you will fish), and make your choice from there.                           Good Fishing,                               Dan Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

Response:

Question:

Could anyone tell me what you think is the least expensive 3 weight rod?  I would also be willing to build it.  I’ve looked at the Sage 386 LL as well as some different G-Loomis rods and come to the conclusion that I don’t want or need a fast high tech rod for my small stream pack trips and would settle for a less expensive one.  

Response:

I strongly recommend that you contact Eric at East Branch Rods. 1-800-337- EROD.  They make a sweet, moderate action rods in wts 1 thru 5.  A finished 8" 3wt 2pc is $235, a kit is $165 and a blank is $80.  Good luck.  (And, no, I’m not affiliated with them in any way.) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Could anyone tell me what you think is the least expensive 3 weight rod? I would also be willing to build it.  I’ve looked at the Sage 386 LL as well as some different G-Loomis rods and come to the conclusion that I don’t want or need a fast high tech rod for my small stream pack trips and would settle for a less expensive one.  

Response:

I have a St. Croix Imperial 7′ 3/4 which cost about $95.  I really like the way it casts, though its cosmetics could be better

Response:

I strongly recommend that you contact Eric at East Branch Rods. 1-800-337- EROD.  They make a sweet, moderate action rods in wts 1 thru 5.  A finished 8" 3wt 2pc is $235, a kit is $165 and a blank is $80.  Good luck. (And, no, I’m not affiliated with them in any way.) Could anyone tell me what you think is the least expensive 3 weight rod? I would also be willing to build it.  I’ve looked at the Sage 386 LL as well as some different G-Loomis rods and come to the conclusion that I don’t want or need a fast high tech rod for my small stream pack trips and would settle for a less expensive one.  

Diawa makes a 3-4 wt. 7′6" 5 pc. pack rod that sells for $200.00 CDN. I don’t know what it would retail for in the U.S. but it is cheap!  I have the 4-5 wt. version of the same rod and it has an excellent dry fly action, very cane like.  Great for short to medium casting distances.  Over the years I’ve owned Sage, Orvis, Thomas & Thomas, and Fisher rods.  The Diawa is no slouch. Peter

Response:

writes: Could anyone tell me what you think is the least expensive 3 weight rod? I would also be willing to build it.  I’ve looked at the Sage 386 LL as well as some different G-Loomis rods and come to the conclusion that I don’t want or need a fast high tech rod for my small stream pack trips and would settle for a less expensive one.

Curtis, You can get the Orvis Rocky Mountain version of their "Tippet" rod (7 1/2′ 3wt.) with the 25 yr. no-fault guarantee for $230.  This is the same blank as the premium version without the fancy cosmetics.  You can buy the blank for $135.  It is a full flex (slow action) rod for delicate presentations and good protection of fine tippets.  If you want a faster rod (medium-fast action) that will cast better in the wind look at the HLS RM "Trico" ($240).  Not quite as easy on the tippets but definitely better in the wind.  Unfortunately, no blank is currently available for the Trico.                                                  Check it out,                                                         Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Schools Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

Response:

I have several 3 weight G. Loomis rods available for sale. Please These are IMX from 8 1/2′ through 9′. Also offering fly casting classes in WA and OR. I am a certified FFF instructor and past Orvis Asst.School Director and have worked with over 5,000 students. Please E. Mail for

Response:

Question:

Would like to know some effective patterns for Northern Pike.  Will be fishing Gods Lake in Manatoba Canada in mid August.

Response:

There is an excellent book on the subject that also discusses multiple patterns.  "PIKE on the FLY" by Barry Reynolds and John Berryman.  If your local fly shop doesn’t carry it Wilderness Adventures Sporting Books does carry them at $16.00.  1-800-925-3339 or P.O. Box 1410, Bozeman, M.T. 59771, that is where I got Mine.  My favorite pattern is Bunny Bug a 3/0 Mustad #34007 with a 25-pound hard mono weed guard, Black thread, tail-4" long black rabbit strip topped with a few strands of black Krystal Flash, butt-White or Yellow marabou, body-Black rabbit strip 6" long palmered to 1/4 " of the eye.  Decievers in Red/White or Black/White are also great.  I use Orvis wire leaders on the above.   The book shop above also has an  great video by Berry Reynolds that makes you want to catch a plane up to Northern Sask!  Good Luck

Response:

Jason Chartrand here, fly-fishing for pike is the BEST (I wish to say only, but it isn’t) way to go. Some really fun flies to try are anything that floats (fur mice, poppers, etc . . . ).  Actually seeing the hit is really exciting.  But honestly, I don’t get much success this way. Nearly any concoction that you can dream up could work, but my favorite is tied like this:         1/0 (2/0) short shank salt water hook         gold tinsel ribbing, or silver         Krystal flash: yellow, green, orange, mixed together, tied in at the         head in buck tail fashion.         Heavy black thread This sounds too simple, but it works great!!  

Response:

: Would like to know some effective patterns for Northern Pike.  

Try a RoadKill Streamer!  Thread a regular-length-hook  (of suitable size) several times through the rear end of a  4" – 8" strip of fox or rabbit fur. Then tie on a 20lb test  shock tippet, to the eye of the hook. Make an overhand knot  (with the shock tippet) around the front end of the fur,  and then make a perfection loop in the shock tippet. Put split  shot on the tippet, at the front end of the fly. That’s it,  although you can knot some Flashabou or whatever in the  overhand knot, as you make it. Other variations include  a second hook at the front, which allows lashing the  front end of the fur (with fly tying thread) to the front hook.  Smaller versions of this fly make good brown trout flies  during fall spawning. Friends of mine have used RoadKills with  good success for Pike and Smallmouth bass in Quebec.     —

Response: