Question:

I am a beginner at fly fishing (Boy, what fun??). Among the many questions that I have is about a creel. How is it used, do you just put a freshly caught fish in the creel, or what?

Response:

A creel is simply a basket to hold freshly caught fish, instead of putting them on a stringer. I’ll assume you’re talking about wicker creels (the weaved wooden kind.)  If you’re going to use a creel, it’s a good idea to put a layer of damp moss in it, to keep the fish cool and to keep it from drying out. I’ve read before that people even stick a layer of moss between each fish, to keep them fresh. you can either wear the creel with the help of a shoulder strap, or leave it on the bank until you need it (the latter would be easier on your shoulder, but it would mean slogging back to the bank when you wanted to keep a fish. I don’t think there’s too many guys still carrying a creel as an every-day piece of tackle, as many fly fishers have adopted the habit of catch & release fishing, only keeping fish every once in a while to eat. Again, to answer your question tho, the creel is just a basket to keep your fish in, instead of using a stringer. I’ve read that fish kept in a creel are usually better eating (better flavor) than those kept on a stringer. Creel is also a bit more convenient to carry than a stringer when you’re packing the fish out, as the creel is worn much like a ladie’s purse (or duffel bag, if you really need a macho example) instead of carrying it out in your hand. Hope this info is some help to you. PS…you don’t sound very enthused about taking up flyfishing, is there anything you’re confused about or need help with?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am a beginner at fly fishing (Boy, what fun??). Among the many questions that I have is about a creel. How is it used, do you just put a freshly caught fish in the creel, or what?

Response:

A creel is simply a basket to hold freshly caught fish,

        a very wise man once said that "guilt replaced the creel"… wayno

Response:

        a very wise man once said that "guilt replaced the creel"… wayno

No, I’m pretty sure that it was Tbone… Kevin

Response:

          a very wise man once said that "guilt replaced the creel"… wayno No, I’m pretty sure that it was Tbone…

Yes, it was TBone.  The wise man was the one who said "guilt debased the meal" <g — Warren Findley Remove (nospamZZ) to respond via email http://www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt/

Response:

   a very wise man once said that "guilt replaced the creel"…

I thought it was a "quilt" that replaced the creel? Don’t tell me I was reading that wrong, it makes even *less* sense your way. <g — Charlie…

Response:

I am a beginner at fly fishing (Boy, what fun??). Among the many questions that I have is about a creel. How is it used, do you just put a freshly caught fish in the creel, or what?

Reed: Having come up with the "Old Men" who were still of a mind set that it was OK, even expected to "keep" the fish you caught I have a lot of experience with the wicker creel. Commonly it was lined with cedar fronds that were first wet in the river in which you were fishing thus keeping your catch cool. A fresh set of fronds was added as the creel recieved "layers" of fish. The fish was ALWAYS gutted and gilled first. The old guys commonly cut open their first fish (yep even if undersized) to examine stomach contents. Over the years my wickers were replaced with canvas. Then the canvas was left behind as fish became scarcer and privacy on the river became almost non-existant. Now the only fish I keep from the river are usually too badly injured to release with good survival chances. There is the infrequent meal when Fish are abundant. These then fit in my pouch nicely. My wickers now serve as traveling tackle boxes while spin fishing. For that they work freaking great! Especially while wading. The shoulder strap when used, goes (if wearing the creel on the right side) over the right shoulder, and then the body strap circles the torso and holds the shoulder strap in proper position. In general though creels went out of style and use just about the time when I finally figured out how to make one.  Figures! Mostly they are just a romantic and nostalgic accessory that sees little use these days. Buy some other piece of equipment instead. Something like a nice streamer wallet (also somewhat out of style but very classy), a couple of good braided butt leaders, or perhaps a nice tippet caddy. I would buy a nice streamside light for those times (everytime I am out) when you fish in the dusky dusk. These would see more use and provide more enjoyment. You could even buy some tying materials and REALLY get the bug. Tight Lines M. Wm.

Response:

I am a beginner at fly fishing (Boy, what fun??). Among the many questions that I have is about a creel. How is it used, do you just put a freshly caught fish in the creel, or what?

He must know all there is to know about creels…

Response:

        a very wise man once said that "guilt replaced the creel"… wayno No, I’m pretty sure that it was Tbone…

LMAO!

Response:

          a very wise man once said that "guilt replaced the creel"… wayno No, I’m pretty sure that it was Tbone… Yes, it was TBone.  The wise man was the one who said "guilt debased the meal" <g

First, I’m articulate, and now THIS!  I’m starting to worry about you Warren.     Wolfgang who is beginning to feel embarrassed by the actions of the thiasus

Response:

Thanks for the replies. I have been fishing for bluegills and other panfish. I do beleive in catch and release, but there are times that I want to keep a few for supper.

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First, I’m articulate, and now THIS!  I’m starting to worry about you Warren.    

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I thought it was a "quilt" that replaced the creel? Don’t tell me I was reading that wrong, it makes even *less* sense your way. <g

Quilts can be bulky, and a wet quilt can weigh a ton. OTOH, a forked stick can do a pretty good job. Seriously, creels are nice to have. I feel naked without one. The wicker jobs are classic, but the canvas ones are more practical and less prone to damage. If you’re keeping a fish, kill it and field dress it ASAP, and put in in the creel. As it says, keep well soaked while in use. this will keep your catch cool and fresh. Now the sermon: Don’t keep a fish unless the stream can handle some harvest, and you intend to actually eat the fish, rather than letting it slowly rot in the fridge. Even when I don’t intend to keep anything, I’ll often use it as a streamside beer cooler. The looks you get on C&R water with a dripping, laden Polar Creel can be priceless. — Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyoming

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Question:

I’m looking for any advice/options on hiring a guide to fly fish in the Cook Islands.  Any fishing stories out there, or good/bad information on guides in the Cooks?  I’ll be there in April 2001.

Response:

I’m looking for any advice/options on hiring a guide to fly fish in the Cook Islands.  Any fishing stories out there, or good/bad information on guides in the Cooks?  I’ll be there in April 2001.

I found this on the Web: http://www.ck/fishing.htm is ROFF’s premier expert on flyfishing in the South Pacific. His web site URL is http://fishing.ifrance.com/fishing/ — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

For what its worth (and it ain’t worth much), several years ago I spent a couple of days on Aitutaki. Unfortunately the day I flew in we were soon followed by a hell of a storm and the lagoon turned into wind tossed milk. Despite the fact that we found no fish it is one of the loveliest places I have ever seen and well worth the visit. When you are doing your search this is one island worth keeping in mind. Hope you enjoy the trip. Vaughan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m looking for any advice/options on hiring a guide to fly fish in the Cook Islands.  Any fishing stories out there, or good/bad information on guides in the Cooks?  I’ll be there in April 2001. I found this on the Web: http://www.ck/fishing.htm is ROFF’s premier expert on flyfishing in the South Pacific. His web site URL is http://fishing.ifrance.com/fishing/ — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

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Question:

I am wondering what type of experiences people have had fishing smallmouth in the Quetico in early September.  We have a group who has gone on several spring trips thinking about a fall trip.  Several of us are fly fishermen, so in particular, I’m wondering if the fish use shallow areas this time of year or if they begin to go deep. Thanks Peter Jonas Iron Mountain, MI

Response:

I am wondering what type of experiences people have had fishing smallmouth in the Quetico in early September.  We have a group who has gone on several spring trips thinking about a fall trip.  Several of us are fly fishermen, so in particular, I’m wondering if the fish use shallow areas this time of year or if they begin to go deep.

        They are still deep in early Sept. Don’t forget they don’t care about the air temp., they care about the water temp. And by the end of Aug. the water is as warm there as it gets. Mornings and evenings might still be okay though. But otherwise think late Sept., early Oct. tgb

Response:

I’m wondering if the fish use shallow areas this time of year or if they begin to go deep.

We went in last September (early) into the northern part of the park and did fairly well on smallmouth catching quite a few in the 17-19" class.  Most of them were shallow to about 8′

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Question:

Hi Alexander, in atlantic Canada there are opportunities for flyfishing for trout and salmon in all provinces. Nova Scotia is likely the cheapest as an out-of-provincer does not require a guide by law. Tourism departments will give you a free map to fishing in the province. In your timeframe, might I suggest salmon fishing on the Margaree river in Cape Breton. It has been Nova Scotia’s most productive river in recent years and has a good run of fall fish extending into October. The Miramichi in New Brunswick is also a great fishing locale, but you are looking at the cost of a guide as well. tight lines, Paul – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My wife and I are planning to do a motorhome trip to East Canada this summer/ autumn (august, september). Where are good fly fishing places without going to an expensive lodge or fly-in camp? Up to now, we have no special location in mind. We think about considering Ontario, Quebec, New Foundland, Nova Scotia or New Brunswik. Perhaps anyone can give us a hint. Usually I am fly-fishing in Germany and Sweden/ Norway. Regards Alexander

Response:

My wife and I are planning to do a motorhome trip to East Canada this summer/ autumn (august, september). Where are good fly fishing places without going to an expensive lodge or fly-in camp? Up to now, we have no special location in mind. We think about considering Ontario, Quebec, New Foundland, Nova Scotia or New Brunswik. Perhaps anyone can give us a hint. Usually I am fly-fishing in Germany and Sweden/ Norway. Regards Alexander

Response:

Question:

<SNIPPED.  They are always very good and very quick reponses.  Do you sit at your computer all day just waiting for ROFF posts?:) Tim

No, but I do log in about twice daily usually, and at times when most posters elsewhere have long since gone to bed, so it may appear that my responses are pretty quick.  I sometimes spend quite a while doing other work on the computer, and log in even more often though. TL MC

Response:

[snip] So give em a brake or just keep on driving that jeep util you find a suitable wall..

Metaphorically speaking, of course… /daytripper ("I Brake For Newbies")

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Lighten up, have a cool one and relax a bit.  It is not about gear or ego’s fellas. Mike

Thanks Mom…..errrr Mike….I almost forgot what it was "all about"….now as soon as I get done doin’ the dishes, startin another load of clothes and takin out the garbage.. if I have your permission, I’ll suck down that cold one before I kick another cat down the driveway….. Jeez….I’m sure glad we have our Jiminy Cricket around today!! Larry #:)#

Response:

Tim Look Tim, if you don’t ask your learning curve will be slower, so ask. However Grumpy some of us are, if the truth be known most here really like to share what we think we know. And newbies are the future of our sport so you are valued. As to diplomacy, or what some might prefer to think of as courtesy, well that itself is a matter of debate. I for one have a bad attitude toward what I consider pussy footing around, and a fairly sharp tongue. However, I think I can assure you though that even the most ragged and long standing feuds here wash away in the field and when it comes down to support for wise use of our country’s natural resources. If its any comfort there is also a long standing tradition for cussidness among the flyfishing fraternity. I offer Sparse Grey Hackle’s story "the Lotus Eaters" in his book "Fishless Days, Angling Nights" as exhibit 1, wherein he describes the Fly Fishers Club of Brooklyn, ensconced on the Beaverkill after their move from the the Brodhead’s in the last century. As exhibit 2 and 3  I offer the personality of our patron saint, Theodore Gordon himself, and Hewitt, fairly opinionated buggers I think you will agree. Having survived your initial dunking you’ve earned the right to ask anything you please and you will mostly get reasonable responses. Presumptuous, but I remain your humble servant, Dave – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have to agree with you mike. I am very much a "rookie" at this FF game and admittedly don’t post much because I don’t feel I know enough about this wonderful sport to be of help to anybody. I have asked some "newbie" questions and pretty much have received very polite and helpful replies (other than my initial post about an experience I had at a club that had fish feeders installed along the stream, which caused quite a backlash, well deserved though in retrospect). However, I have noticed a decided souring of tempers as of late. I lurk, mainly because I can and have gained many useful tidbits just from reading the posts, but also because I don’t want to be a bother to the regulars by asking a ton of "newbie" questions. After reading some of the recent posts I probably will be even more hesitant in the future. Tim

Response:

The current heat wave must be getting to people.  Of the two posts I read by newbies looking for advice, one guy got his head bit off by somebody on their soapbox about quality vs. price and the other question deteriorated into a thread taking personal jabs at each other and contradicting the previous post. This is not a way to encourage new people to stick around. Lighten up, have a cool one and relax a bit.  It is not about gear or ego’s fellas. Mike

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -The current heat wave must be getting to people.  Of the two posts I read by newbies looking for advice, one guy got his head bit off by somebody on their soapbox about quality vs. price and the other question deteriorated into a thread taking personal jabs at each other and contradicting the previous post. This is not a way to encourage new people to stick around. Lighten up, have a cool one and relax a bit.  It is not about gear or ego’s fellas. Mike

I have to agree with you mike. I am very much a "rookie" at this FF game and admittedly don’t post much because I don’t feel I know enough about this wonderful sport to be of help to anybody. I have asked some "newbie" questions and pretty much have received very polite and helpful replies (other than my initial post about an experience I had at a club that had fish feeders installed along the stream, which caused quite a backlash, well deserved though in retrospect). However, I have noticed a decided souring of tempers as of late. I lurk, mainly because I can and have gained many useful tidbits just from reading the posts, but also because I don’t want to be a bother to the regulars by asking a ton of "newbie" questions. After reading some of the recent posts I probably will be even more hesitant in the future. Tim

Response:

<SNIPPED However, I have noticed a decided souring of tempers as of late. I lurk, mainly because I can and have gained many useful tidbits just from reading the posts, but also because I don’t want to be a bother to the regulars by asking a ton of "newbie" questions. After reading some of the recent posts I probably will be even more hesitant in the future. Tim

Hi Tim, that is extremely unfortunate and was not my intention with my post. I just got a bit ratty at somebody insulting a lot of people for no good reason.  As you  know by now, and indeed mentioned in your post,  just about all questions are answered promptly and politely otherwise, by quite a few people. It would be a shame if we frightened people off, but by the same token, some things are unfortunately worded, and beg all sorts of cutting replies, which are then inevitably forthcoming. Glad to see you hung around anyway. TL MC

Response:

Oh yeah? Well fuck you! My rod is bigger than your rod and costs more, too. Tongue firmly in cheek… WESH – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The current heat wave must be getting to people.  Of the two posts I read by newbies looking for advice, one guy got his head bit off by somebody on their soapbox about quality vs. price and the other question deteriorated into a thread taking personal jabs at each other and contradicting the previous post. This is not a way to encourage new people to stick around. Lighten up, have a cool one and relax a bit.  It is not about gear or ego’s fellas. Mike

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I have asked some "newbie" questions and pretty much have received very polite and helpful replies (other than my initial post about an experience I had at a club that had fish feeders installed along the stream, which caused quite a backlash, well deserved though in retrospect). However, I have noticed a decided souring of tempers as of late. I lurk, mainly because I can and have gained many useful tidbits just from reading the posts, but also because I don’t want to be a bother to the regulars by asking a ton of "newbie" questions. After reading some of the recent posts I probably will be even more hesitant in the future. Tim

Tim, I am a newbie to this NG so if the old timers are getting cranky you can ask me stuff.  I am not bothered by "newbie" questions and enjoy passing on what I know about fishin. Just don’t listen to anyone after I said my peace! Just jokin’.  There is a ton of resources here to use, don’t feel timid in asking questions.  If you still have questions that need to be answered and don’t want the backlash, feel free to email me.  I am available most of the time and will send you a reply just as soon as I can. Warren

Response:

No…not the heat…. (In the memory Sam Kinisson) "It’s not the heat, it’s the stupid fucking questions posted by stupid fucking newbies. What’s the best fucking floatant ? Who gives a flying fuck, how many kinds of fucking floatant are there ? Are these fucking idiots too fucking stupid just to go to the store and ask ‘em what the best fucking floatant is ? What’s next, what finger should I fucking use to put it on my fucking fly ? The heat ? The heat never wanted to make me drive my jeep into A FUCKING WALL". http://www.rodney.com/gallery/kinn.htm Your pal, — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "A Cash Flow Runs Through It…" "Guilt replaced the creel…"

Response:

<equivocating post snipped Um……come on Tim, why don’t you just tell us how you really feel?

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi Tim, that is extremely unfortunate and was not my intention with my post. I just got a bit ratty at somebody insulting a lot of people for no good reason.  As you  know by now, and indeed mentioned in your post,  just about all questions are answered promptly and politely otherwise, by quite a few people. It would be a shame if we frightened people off, but by the same token, some things are unfortunately worded, and beg all sorts of cutting replies, which are then inevitably forthcoming. Glad to see you hung around anyway. TL MC

Hi Mike: yea, I figure I’ll hang around…most of the posts by regulars are pretty comical, even if I don’t know what the hell they’re talking about with all the "inside jokes" around here. BTW, I do appreciate all of your helpful responses to my questions in the past.  They are always very good and very quick reponses.  Do you sit at your computer all day just waiting for ROFF posts?:) Tim

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Tim Look Tim, if you don’t ask your learning curve will be slower, so ask. However Grumpy some of us are, if the truth be known most here really like to share what we think we know. And newbies are the future of our sport so you are valued. As to diplomacy, or what some might prefer to think of as courtesy, well that itself is a matter of debate. I for one have a bad attitude toward what I consider pussy footing around, and a fairly sharp tongue. However, I think I can assure you though that even the most ragged and long standing feuds here wash away in the field and when it comes down to support for wise use of our country’s natural resources. If its any comfort there is also a long standing tradition for cussidness among the flyfishing fraternity. I offer Sparse Grey Hackle’s story "the Lotus Eaters" in his book "Fishless Days, Angling Nights" as exhibit 1, wherein he describes the Fly Fishers Club of Brooklyn, ensconced on the Beaverkill after their move from the the Brodhead’s in the last century. As exhibit 2 and 3  I offer the personality of our patron saint, Theodore Gordon himself, and Hewitt, fairly opinionated buggers I think you will agree. Having survived your initial dunking you’ve earned the right to ask anything you please and you will mostly get reasonable responses. Presumptuous, but I remain your humble servant, Dave

Thanks Dave, I already feel better about this NG! Now could you please tell me: What is the best floatant?  <Just Kidding Tim

Response:

It ain’t the heat — natural cussedness. Of course, heat and violent weather do tend to put the trout down, yielding more frustration. Watch it, or I’ll discorse on "Global Warming" again…. r.m.bies

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<equivocating post snipped Um……come on Tim, why don’t you just tell us how you really feel?

How can you possibly complain about such a linguistically sophisticated post ? TL MC

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Tim, I am a newbie to this NG so if the old timers are getting cranky you can ask me stuff.  I am not bothered by "newbie" questions and enjoy passing on what I know about fishin. Just don’t listen to anyone after I said my peace! Just jokin’.  There is a ton of resources here to use, don’t feel timid in asking questions.  If you still have questions that need to be answered and don’t want the backlash, feel free to email me.  I am available most of the time and will send you a reply just as soon as I can. Warren

Thanks for the generous offer Warren! Tim

Response:

Oh, I suppose you have never had a stupid question.  I guess you were born knowing exactly what is the best floatant.  You know some people don’t have a flyfishing shop right next door and asking here is a great way for people to learn.  So give em a brake or just keep on driving that jeep util you find a suitable wall..

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Question:

Thank you Azure. I hope you are well, spike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Noen; You are welcome. A) I’m scared of Alan. B) He is nice to the new ppl like you. C) He is nice to the ca girls. D) Or It’s because he has been here about 3 years longer that you. I have seen extraordinary acts of kindness from him, and has earned certain rights, that as a boundary i don’t allow all ppl to have. In short he is pretty fly for a white guy. He has that punk ethos happening, i respect that. With love, spike But really the number one reason, is the way he flames ppl that ask stupid questions or when a new person thinks they have things all figured out, and they get a post from Alan. (uproarious giggles) Spike, you have a hilarious way of hitting the nail right on the head. azure drop ‘trou’ to reply — For more information about this posting service, contact: If you want an anonymous account, visit our sign-up page: http://asarian-host.org/emailform.html

Response:

Hi Colin; Yikes beats me. Maybe your news reader doesn’t like doing it. For some reason, it doesn’t work with the new icq proper either. Try it with a word app, like notepad, if it does, it’s that agent warez, you are using. It’s the right-hand number pad you are using right? I’m good, thank you, it’s nice you are back. How is life? You are building now? Roofing and framing? Hey if you need a garage door(s) i’ll tell you how it get it very cheap, and if the fishing is as good as i hear, in that area, i’ll hang it for free. Are your finger nails that pretty purple color, framers always have? Take care and use a level and square, spike – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 0233=

Question:

I’ll be in Cork, Ireland the week of May 10th and am trying to decide whether or not to stay a few extra days for some flyfishing for native browns. I ran the standard searches thru dejanews and hotbot and found some interesting March salmon info but not much for May browns. I called the Cork fisheries guy for some info but any suggestions for books or web sites or guides or lodges? Thanks, Doug

Response:

Get hold of PeterO’Reilly’s books on the Rivers; Loughs and Flies of Ireland (all published by Merlin Unwin books). The Suir, in Co. Waterford (east of Co. Cork) is -in many opinions- one of the best wild brown trout rivers in Europe. Try Andrew Ryan at www.flyfishingireland.com Tight lines Tony D – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll be in Cork, Ireland the week of May 10th …. etc. (snipped)

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Question:

Does any one know how the dry conditions in Alaska is affecting the fishing?  I am planning a trip this month to Fairbanks, and need to know if it will be worth fishing.  Also, any good home pages about Alaska fishing? David L. Ransom ‘94 "Railwacker" ‘83 Nighthawk 650,       ‘50 Chevy 1/2 ton http://http.tamu.edu:8000/~daver/dave.html

Response:

Does any one know how the dry conditions in Alaska is affecting the fishing?  I am planning a trip this month to Fairbanks, and need to know if it will be worth fishing.  Also, any good home pages about Alaska fishing? David L. Ransom ‘94 "Railwacker" ‘83 Nighthawk 650,       ‘50 Chevy 1/2 ton http://http.tamu.edu:8000/~daver/dave.html

I just came back from a week in the Bristol Bay area.  The water level is down as much as 5′ in some of the lake systems from normal this time of year.  It depends on where you go and what feeds the drainage you are in.  If the drainage is mainly yearly snow melt then the water will be down.  If the source is glacial then the water level might be up because of the early warm weather we’ve had. All in all, and in most areas, the fishing will probably not suffer this year.  It may affect pink salmon runs and spawning because they use small steams that could be impassable this year.  The pot hole country that I flew over last week looked just slightlly lower that normal, (less than a foot.) I’d say go for it, when in doubt take your gear.  You can do other tourist stuff just as easy with your fly rod in the hotel room if the fishing is not good. R. Wood in Alaska

Response:

Philip: ROFF is not a binaries group.  If you have pictures to share, post a text-only message to ROFF alerting people to the pictures and post the actual pictures to alt.binaries.pictures.fishing. Many news servers will strip the picture out automatically if you try to post to ROFF, so folks may never see what you intended them to.  Other than that, posting to ABPF will save you from people who have slow connections that get clogged by a picture you posted, even though you had the best of intentions.  Doing otherwise can be the newsgroup equivalent of slashing open major blood vessels before jumping into the shark tank at the aquarium. Zippy —< This article was posted through www.newzpig.com —

Response:

Hi Philip, Nice picture. That would look great blown up and framed on your wall. It reminded me of a float trip I once tool in AK. Thanks. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop http://www.kiene.com 800/4000FLY USA toll free

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks to everyone on the board who offered advice on fly patterns and how to fish for salmon in Alaska.  It paid off.  We caught many salmon (3 species in five days).  Plus, we got into some very aggressive Dollies. Thanks….

Response:

If one were to move to Alaksa, where would the optimum location be.  Heres the factors to consider,  occupation: Science teacher,  type of fish wanted: Salmon/trout (duh), uncrowded fishing (if possible anymore), close enough to a larger town/city to occupy my wife for a day (or two) here and there.

Sounds like you want to live in Wasilla – its north of Anchorage 50 miles or so. Lots of rivers, lakes and wide open spaces. Wasilla has just enough of a population for schools and such. I can’t stand the place myself, but lots of people love it there – the fishing is first class however. Hans – Juneau, AK

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If one were to move to Alaksa, where would the optimum location be.  Heres the factors to consider,  occupation: Science teacher,  type of fish wanted: Salmon/trout (duh), uncrowded fishing (if possible anymore), close enough to a larger town/city to occupy my wife for a day (or two) here and there.

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what flies and rods are good for the trout speices there?  When is the best time of the year to go?  Thanks for your time

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what flies and rods are good for the trout speices there?  When is the best time of the year to go?  Thanks for your time

   The question is a little vague to get much in the way of usefull response. Keep in mind that Alaska is about 20% as large as the entire Lower 48 so a lot depends on where in Alaska you’re talking about. There’s plenty of areas in Alaska that don’t have any trout. Are you talking about fishing on the road system or in the bush?    I fish some rivers that only have fish in them for 4-6 weeks a year and others that fish well all season long. There are some rivers that I like to fish in June and others that I want to be on in September. There is no best time of year; it depends on what you want to do and how you want to fish. Trout season opens in Southwest and Southcentral Alaska from early to mid-June. After September weather becomes iffy and a lot depends on how early winter sets in. Flies and equipment depend on when and where you’re going.

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Question:

Any info on possibilities of small lake or stream fishing here. I have heard there’s some bass possibilities here.

Response:

There are lots of ponds with LM and Peacock bass in them.  I’ve personally only caught them on a spinning rod, but there’s no reason they wouldn’t take flies.  There may be some bass or other interesting creatures in the larger streams.  There sure are a lot of them on Kauai, and there are some nice flats areas that ought to be fishable for Ulua (Trevally) and their younger brothers, Papio.–Crashjibe

Response:

Only stream fishing when i was there ran through Kokee State Park.  Purely "put & take" trout.  Definite for Peacock.  Don’t expect to find ANY gear there, though.

I fished some of the freshwater reservoirs in cane fields (get a permit…they’re free from the sugar co.). Largemouth and peacock a’plenty *:) I thought I remember reading where Kokee has a very short fishing season….did I remember right?

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Question:

Apart from all the other advantages, hand tied leaders offer two distinct advantages for me.         1. I seem to present the fly better with a hand tied leader         2. One of cost, they are distinctly cheaper.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize The Lefty Kreh/Mark Sosin book Practical Fishing Knots II gives a good methodology for constructing saltwater leaders. I use all Mason hard mono for my saltwater leaders, which I tie in the methods suggested in Kreh/Sosin. (i.e. Surgeon’s loops, bimini twists, huffnagle knots, etc.) 2. Can you surfcasters get anecdotal about your line selection (i.e. what is better in waves… a 30′ shooting head attached to mono? or a 30′ head attached to some floating line? 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket. thanks for the know-how Check out the Teeny running lines. They’re made of limp, braided material which doesn’t curl up and will shoot through the guides easily in case it gets tangled. They’re neutrally-bouyant rather than high-floating like floating fly lines. I like them better than the level fly line-type running lines, but they’re a bit pricey. (Cope & McPheter’s carries them in the Bay area…) Regards, Fred

One word of caution about both braided shooting line and level flyline for use in the surf. These lines can pick up particles of sand and abrade both your guides and your fly rod.  It depends upon the nature of the beach, but under the right conditions you can ruin a fly rod in one outing. However under some circumstances these shooting lines can work great. Ian Walker

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1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize

I had the same problem with weighted clousers of that size and still have the bumps on the back of my head to prove it! Someone replied to my post on this matter and suggested that I try using a shorter leader while someone else replied suggesting that I use a uniform diameter mono leader that is relatively stiff. I tried combining the suggestions by attaching a three foot section of 12#test Berkely Big Game to the end of my Fenwick 9wt WF intermediate sinking line. The fly moved better in the air during false casts, but the mono just couldn’t turn over the fly for a straight presentation. Not that the presentation is essential for the fish, but it helps to keep the line from fouling even before I start stripping. This worked a bit better when I dropped the fly size down to a #2 clouser, but it didn’t solve my original problem. Longer mono sections proved worse in practice and shorter tapered leaders didn’t do it either. I’m still stumped. I recently purchased a 12wt for fishing rougher surf on the south shore of Long Island and was sort of hoping that the line weight increase would help in this situation (I’ll be casting some heavy epoxy flys too). Too bad…. 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket.

Are you using the collapsable variety or the dishpan with/without mono fingers? I use the collapsable and thought that was the problem. Then I fished with another salty flyrodder who had the dishpan (without mono fingers) and he had the same problem…. HH&TL,       Jose

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think that being easier to tie is the ONLY possible advantage that the surgeons knot has over the blood. From my informal tests, I believe the blood knot to be stronger.  Your mileage may vary, but I’d think that there would be a definite answer to this question.  Namely: which is stronger a properly tied blood or properly tied surgeons knot. I have found the surgeons knot superior when the diameters of the two lines differs by more than a few x’s.  This happens mostly when I use a knotless leader and have changed flies a few times too often. I’ve found the blood knot clearly superior when the diameters are nearly the same…as they are when I’m tying my on leaders.  They don’t take long to tie, either, once you get the hang of it.  My biggest problem with the blood knot: I can’t tie it while smoking my pipe!

I am sorry that I did not state this exception in my initial post.  I definitely agree that when the diameters are quite different, I have a difficult time getting a blood knot to hold.  I generally use 3 wraps on each side of the knot, but I will use possibly 5 wraps when tying different size diameters together.  I should possibly consider the surgeons knot in this instance. I am happy to hear someone else who doesn’t think the blood knot is hard to tie.  It is simple: a couple wraps and through, a couple wraps and through, wet, tighten, snip, fish. question: do any of you put zap-a-gap or something similar on the blood knots in your leaders?  Doesit make a difference?

I have tried, but I really have not seen any difference.  It might help prevent the blood knot pulling out in the circumstances outlined above. Enough rambling on my part.  I like the often-chastised blood knot. -tgades

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I would like to cast a vote for tying your own leaders.  True, knotless leaders are easy and do not pick up moss and debris but a hand-tied leader will improve your presentation with drys if you use a hard/soft leader/tippet system.  FlyFisherman has an article in the July edition that talks about it some.  I’ve tied my own leaders for about a year and a half and think they’re worth the effort.

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I would go with the handtied leader.  I use a permanent butt section   attached to my flyline with a nail knot and with a perfection loop in the   end.  I put a perfection loop in the end of my leaders and use a loop to   loop connection.  The flyfish listserv has had extensive discussion   recently concerning failures of braided leader connections at the point   of attachment to the flyline. —   Dept. of Chemistry Centre College 600 W. Walnut St. Danville, KY 40422 phone (606)238-5416

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Conrad,         What do I have to do to subscribe to this flyfish listserv? Jim

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" If you want, I can provide size and length parameters for most species, just tell me which ones you are going for. (and yes, we do sell ready made leaders, too!) Tight Lines Tackle Shop and Guide Service Lockeport, Nova Scotia, Canada

And now a question to bcurry and other ff surfcasters. I was surfcasting last night in Santa Cruz and I had a bitch throwing a 1/0 deceiver. My rodbuilder flipped me a reel to try. This reel (in this order) backing, clear mono, and a 30′ shooting head had a six foot mono leader that I practiced for 2 weeks on grass. All was well. I have a 9′graphite 12 wght rod and the loaner reel/shooting head is about the same. Added to the mono "leader" I added 12′ 5 lb test leader and my deceiver It was foul city. In the surf, with a 30 foot shooting head 2 questions come to mind: 1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize 2. Can you surfcasters get anecdotal about your line selection (i.e. what is better in waves… a 30′ shooting head attached to mono? or a 30′ head attached to some floating line? 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket. thanks for the know-how

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1. Can you recommend a [in the surf] leader formula for 1/0-3/0 flies perch, stripers are the prize

The Lefty Kreh/Mark Sosin book Practical Fishing Knots II gives a good methodology for constructing saltwater leaders. I use all Mason hard mono for my saltwater leaders, which I tie in the methods suggested in Kreh/Sosin. (i.e. Surgeon’s loops, bimini twists, huffnagle knots, etc.) 2. Can you surfcasters get anecdotal about your line selection (i.e. what is better in waves… a 30′ shooting head attached to mono? or a 30′ head attached to some floating line? 3.This mono curled like Harpo Marx in my shooting basket. I would think some real fly line (like my 7 wt 444 sinking line) would at least lay flat in the bottom of my basket. thanks for the know-how

Check out the Teeny running lines. They’re made of limp, braided material which doesn’t curl up and will shoot through the guides easily in case it gets tangled. They’re neutrally-bouyant rather than high-floating like floating fly lines. I like them better than the level fly line-type running lines, but they’re a bit pricey. (Cope & McPheter’s carries them in the Bay area…) Regards, Fred

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I’m just getting started flyfishing, and I’m hooked. Though I’ve been using borrowed gear, I’m going to buy my own rod/reel soon. Unless I hear lots of negative reports about it (I’ve heard tons of good reports), I’m goin to go with the Orvis Clearwater Henry’s Fork outfit (8.5ft/5wt), since about $150-175 is my limit. My real question here, though, is about leaders. I know that Orvis (esp. since I’m buying my rod/reel/line from them) has several different kinds of leader systems: knotless leaders, braided leader system (which seems pretty snazzy), and the ol’ tie ‘em yourself from scratch method (which appeals to the traditionalist in me). Should I start with a knotless or braided leader/tippet system? or Should I learn to tie leaders myself (using books/friends/etc. as advice)? Also, I’m wondering about waders, but I’ve posted that separately. Thanks Steven Jarvis

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I’m just getting started flyfishing, and I’m hooked. My real question here, though, is about leaders. I know that Orvis (esp. since I’m buying my rod/reel/line from them) has several different kinds of leader systems: knotless leaders, braided leader system (which seems pretty snazzy), and the ol’ tie ‘em yourself from scratch method (which appeals to the traditionalist in me). Should I start with a knotless or braided leader/tippet system? or Should I learn to tie leaders myself (using books/friends/etc. as advice)?

Use the braided leader/tippet.  I do and like them a lot.   A sunny day,      a box of midges,         and a wandering stream…   Man, this MUST be heaven!   <    Steve Kulpa    <<

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I like to use knotless tapered leaders. maybe because I’m lazy, but there may be some very slight advantages with them. There are no knots to create drag, and the material has no "memory" (the hand tied t.l.’s i bought at the Yellowstone Angler took forever to straighten out). Also, I noticed that the braided sections can sometimes soak enough water to make them ride just under the surface of the water, which can be annoying. However, these factors are so slight that if your traditional tendencies say tie them yourself then that’s what you should do. Let us know if you have ?’s about size, lengths etc.

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Should you decide to tie your own leaders, for God’s sake free yourself from the tyranny of the blood knot.  You can learn the surgeons knot in about 30 seconds. It’s quicker, its better and it HOLDS.  Remember, all this is supposed to be fun, not rocket science. RLPPT

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My real question here, though, is about leaders. I know that Orvis (esp. since I’m buying my rod/reel/line from them) has several different kinds of leader systems: knotless leaders, braided leader system (which seems pretty snazzy), and the ol’ tie ‘em yourself from scratch method (which appeals to the traditionalist in me). Should I start with a knotless or braided leader/tippet system? or Should I learn to tie leaders myself (using books/friends/etc. as advice)?

Hi, I’d recommend the traditionalist choice, which happens to be the cheapest, too. Learning to tie your own leaders isn’t hard, and works really well, because you can change at will, when the occasion calls for it. Also, you’ll find that some species just don’t have pre-made leaders to buy (i.e. pickerel, which need a 10-15# test, but with a short 6" 30# opr more section to avoid "bite-offs". If you wantr, I can provide size and length parameters for most species, just tell me which ones you are going for. (and yes, we do sell ready made leaders, too!) Tight Lines Tackle Shop and Guide Service Lockeport, Nova Scotia, Canada

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Should you decide to tie your own leaders, for God’s sake free yourself from the tyranny of the blood knot.  You can learn the surgeons knot in about 30 seconds. It’s quicker, its better and it HOLDS.  Remember, all this is supposed to be fun, not rocket science. RLPPT

I think that being easier to tie is the ONLY possible advantage that the surgeons knot has over the blood.  From my informal tests, I believe the blood knot to be stronger.  Your mileage may vary, but I’d think that there would be a definite answer to this question.  Namely: which is stronger a properly tied blood or properly tied surgeons knot. I have personally found the answer to be the blood. -tgades

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: Should you decide to tie your own leaders, for God’s sake free yourself : from the tyranny of the blood knot.  You can learn the surgeons knot in : about 30 seconds. : It’s quicker, its better and it HOLDS.  Remember, all this is supposed to : be fun, not rocket science. RLPPT : I think that being easier to tie is the ONLY possible advantage that the : surgeons knot has over the blood.  From my informal tests, I believe the blood : knot to be stronger.  Your mileage may vary, but I’d think that there would : be a definite answer to this question.  Namely: which is stronger a properly : tied blood or properly tied surgeons knot. I have found the surgeons knot superior when the diameters of the two lines differs by more than a few x’s.  This happens mostly when I use a knotless leader and have changed flies a few times too often. I’ve found the blood knot clearly superior when the diameters are nearly the same…as they are when I’m tying my on leaders.  They don’t take long to tie, either, once you get the hang of it.  My biggest problem with the blood knot: I can’t tie it while smoking my pipe! question: do any of you put zap-a-gap or something similar on the blood knots in your leaders?  Doesit make a difference? — Laboratory for Applied Logic    Dept. of Computer Science University of Idaho             www: http://www.cs.uidaho.edu/~foster

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