Question:

I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need information on stability, size and type.

Hi all, for small lakes and ponds you might want to consider a solo canoe. I own a Mohawk solo 14 and I’m very pleased with it. Here are some things to think about that might help. Mohawk has a nice kayak style two piece paddle that works very well with this canoe – it makes the canoe pure joy to paddle and after you get to where you are headed you can take it apart and have a normal canoe paddle for getting past tight spots. The solo canoe draws very little water (about 1 inch) and can glide over logs, sandbars and weeds – a big plus for Florida! It is surprising fast, I have a GPS and have found I can maintain about 4 MPH at a 1/2 hour pace and can sprint up to 5.5 MPH for a short bit – very helpful when trying to get past a bridge with a lot of current. It is very light – less then 40 LBs and is very easy to car top and portage. I often carry it over head without a yoke two blocks to the local lake with no problems. The canoe is completely open and has easy to access storage. On the down side, because it is open you have to be careful in larger lakes and flats – large boat wake and or heavy chop could swamp the canoe. A kayak would be much better for rough water. It is very tippy, forget about standing up! All casting must be done sitting down. I have found this is not too much of a problem and has helped made me improve my casting. Because the boat is so light and draws little water the wind really moves it around. This can be an advantage as some of the best days I have had were drifting the flats on a light wind. It is amazing what you can sneak up on when making no sound. When the wind picks up a light anchor tied to the transom with cheap (floating) rope will put your back to the wind and make for some great downwind casting. When you want to move simply paddle backwards a few strokes and the floating rope with come up on the side and you will be able to pull it in with out turning around or getting up out of the seat. I hope this helps, Dale — Dale Coleman

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How about this?   http://www.tribalance.com/tribalance.htm Chris "Padishar Creel" Fanning

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Or this: http://darkwing.uoregon.edu/~rbear/yak.html Micro Poke Boat. I’ve built a pack frame to carry it in to wilderness lakes in the Cascades, Shown spin fishing, but also good for fly. Very stable. I’ve built a rod holder that sits between my knees, use a 9′ combo rod with the reel seat seven inches from the butt, very good for trolling streamers and nymphs, and the whole boat is my shooting basket. I also have a Wilderness Systems Critter, and have seen Pungos, Mallards, etc. used this way, but I like the Poke best because it weighs so much less and the high freeboard is good wind protection in rough weather. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How about this? http://www.tribalance.com/tribalance.htm Chris "Padishar Creel" Fanning

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http://www.kayaker.com/products/boats/boat.asp?type=recreational&ID=30 john

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here’s a link to an article discussing kayak fishing with some good pointers… <http://www.stripersurf.com/kayaks101.html — so much fishing, so little time — –please remuv the ‘NOWAY2it’ from my email addy to email me–

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I, too, have an Ocean Kayak Ambush.  They are considerably more stable than a canoe, even.  I have both.  The Ambush is big enough for two and has a removable second seat.  Lots of storage space.  It is big and heavy, but more maneuverable and speedy than a canoe.  It also has a trolling motor mount molded into the design.  I have used it as well.  With a 17 lbs. thrust motor, it really boogies across the creeks and lakes. Now for the spam.  I wanted one of these kayaks for years and could not find one.  Then one of my clients requested a few Ocean Kayaks for a promotion they were doing.  Once I started researching, I found out that one of the companies I rep is Johnson Outdoor, who owns Ocean Kayak.  Duh.  Okay, so I can sell you one straight from the factory and have it shipped anywhere in the continental U.S. If you are interested, let me know and I’ll put together a price.  We could even do it through ebay if you wish. Scott P.S.  That was not too "spammy" was it?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve paddled the Ambush by Ocean Kayak, and found it to be a very stable boat…I couldn’t flip this one if I wanted too.  It’s a heavy boat, though, and may be a bit much for one person to haul to and from the water.  I have no financial interest in Ocean Kayak, and having said that here’s a link to the Ambush.( http://www.oceankayak.com/products/ambush.html ) HTH. Cheers, Bill I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need information on stability, size and type.

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just keep in mind the weight for both stability and ease of transport. A plus on stability and a negative on the latter. — so much fishing, so little time — –please remuv the ‘NOWAY2it’ from my email addy to email me–

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I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need information on stability, size and type.

I have a couple of kayaks I fish out of. I mainly fish salt water flats but I have fished for striper in GA Lake Lanier. I read the mentions of the Ride. Good little yak but it is slow to paddle. Not sure which Ocean Kayak model you are looking at. There are several great paddle fishing sites on the web. Most are focused on salt water. However, tips on choosing a kayak are going to be the same with a few differences for lake fishing. If you are going to be flyfishing from a yak the absolute in stability is the Tribalance. It has outriggers and will NOT flip. You CAN fall out of it though. It also has advantages of being a sit it that you can sit ON as well. The cockpit then becomes a handy stripping basket. Also nice it you fish in colder climates to get out of the wind. I have a full review on my site http://flatsfisher.com and the same review and other information is available on the salt water oriented http://paddle-fishing.com The direct site for Tribalance is here http://www.tribalance.com/ I personally liked my Tri but could not keep up with some of the other boats and it needs the rudder in py opinion in the open water or it tracks funny at times. I replaced it with a Hobie Outback that uses a pedal system rather than paddling. It is stable enough to stand in but I would not think it ideal for all the motion involved in fly casting(at least the way I do it <g) You will have a price premium on the Tribalance as well; new close to $900 compared to a new Ride at about $600. good luck, atljoe

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I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need information on stability, size and type.

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I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need information on stability, size and type.

This one has been recommended to me: http://www.wildernesssystems.com/kayaks/boats/therideangler_a.html This is the only one i’ve seen where you able to stand up in…..well i’m sure you could stand in other models, but ya might get wet. ….hmmm, is there a term for a Full Reid in a kayak? brians

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This one has been recommended to me: http://www.wildernesssystems.com/kayaks/boats/therideangler_a.html

I have two Rides (not the ‘angler’, I added the rod holders and anchor myself) and they are great for fishing. I don’t stand up in mine to fish, but have tried it and it can be done. — Charlie…

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….hmmm, is there a term for a Full Reid in a kayak?

Absolutely.  That would be known  as the "Mason Flip," and there are several variations. Cheers, Bill (Mason) (Mostly upright, seldom dry)

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I’ve paddled the Ambush by Ocean Kayak, and found it to be a very stable boat…I couldn’t flip this one if I wanted too.  It’s a heavy boat, though, and may be a bit much for one person to haul to and from the water.  I have no financial interest in Ocean Kayak, and having said that here’s a link to the Ambush.( http://www.oceankayak.com/products/ambush.html ) HTH. Cheers, Bill

I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need

information on stability, size and type.

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I am planning to buy a kayak for flyfishing small lakes and ponds……need information on stability, size and type. If you are interested in a Sit Inside kayak take a look at the Pungo by Wilderness System. Nice and stable, a super comfy adjustable seat and a huge cockpit opening. Best thing would be to narrow down your list then go to a shop and test paddle the models that interest you. It’s just like buying a flyrod, test it locally then make your decision. One size doesnt fit all. good luck, Walter

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Question:

John, that’s an inspiration to aspiring Grandads throughout ROFF. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://members.home.net/pcharles/streamers/index.html

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Grandma and I had #1 and #2 grandsons this afternoon fishing Foothill Lake in Palo Alto.  #2 is two years old and, with Grandma, was tossing his Snoopy rod and reel with the practice casting plug everywhere, sometimes in the water <g!  #1 is 8 years old and ALWAYS catches more fish with Dad than with Grandpa <g!  #1 was tossing Powerbait, worms and marshmallows all over the lake with no luck but he was doing a good job.  Late in the day, the following occurred: He:  Look at that guy on the dock, Grandpa.  What is he fishing with? Me: A fly rod. He:  Isn’t that what you fish with? Me: Yes. He:  That looks like fun.  (Heart twinges) Me:  It is. He:  It looks hard. Me:  Well, it takes training.  Like bicycle riding or a skate board. He:  They’re easy, Grandpa. What’s he doing now? Me:  Stripping a fly imitating a minnow. He:  That looks like lots of fun (Heart Jumps). Me:  It is. He:  Would you show me how?  (BE STILL MY HEART) Me:  OK, whenever you want too. He:  Takes spin outfit, sits on rock and watches caster roll casting, double hauling and practicing long beautiful casts for good 5 minutes <WOW. She:  (Watching #1 watching fly caster) to me:  BE STILL MY HEART. Me:  OK Bud, it’s time to go. He:  Grandpa, will you teach me how to fly fish? HEART IN MY THROAT!!! Me:  Too choked up to say anything but SURE – Who’s Hungry? He:  Later he said:  "Mom Grandpa is going to show me how to fly fish!" She:  (Rolls eyes) Oh, he IS is he?  to me "How did you arrange that?" Me:  It’s in the genes <g!

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<snip A most delightful post, John. And a great lesson to one who pushed too hard to get my kids to embrace my sport.  Ah!!! But when the grandchildren come along. Patience, patience and patience. Perhaps.<G Thanks Kiyu

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You are indeed a lucky fellow.  Great post.  Looking forward to hearing how he progresses.  If only every 8 year old was as lucky …. Cheers and TLs. Natty

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Grandma and I had #1 and #2 grandsons this afternoon fishing Foothill Lake in Palo Alto.  #2 is two years old and, with Grandma, was tossing his Snoopy rod and reel with the practice casting plug everywhere, sometimes in the water <g!  #1 is 8 years old and ALWAYS catches more fish with Dad than with Grandpa <g!  #1 was tossing Powerbait, worms and marshmallows all over the lake with no luck but he was doing a good job.  Late in the day, the following occurred: He:  Look at that guy on the dock, Grandpa.  What is he fishing with? Me: A fly rod. He:  Isn’t that what you fish with? Me: Yes. He:  That looks like fun.  (Heart twinges) Me:  It is. He:  It looks hard. Me:  Well, it takes training.  Like bicycle riding or a skate board. He:  They’re easy, Grandpa. What’s he doing now? Me:  Stripping a fly imitating a minnow. He:  That looks like lots of fun (Heart Jumps). Me:  It is. He:  Would you show me how?  (BE STILL MY HEART) Me:  OK, whenever you want too. He:  Takes spin outfit, sits on rock and watches caster roll casting, double hauling and practicing long beautiful casts for good 5 minutes <WOW. She:  (Watching #1 watching fly caster) to me:  BE STILL MY HEART. Me:  OK Bud, it’s time to go. He:  Grandpa, will you teach me how to fly fish? HEART IN MY THROAT!!! Me:  Too choked up to say anything but SURE – Who’s Hungry? He:  Later he said:  "Mom Grandpa is going to show me how to fly fish!" She:  (Rolls eyes) Oh, he IS is he?  to me "How did you arrange that?" Me:  It’s in the genes <g!

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Thanks, that story ruled!  Perhaps you should start shopping for 6 ft fly rods <g Best of luck and congratulations, — Warren Findley

It might be easier for him to learn with an 8 foot rod. About fifteen years ago a friend and I started his eight year old son with my 8 foot 6 weight Cortland. He still uses that rod. I will look forward to meeting him at Flyfish 2002 next year. Big Dale

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<snipped story of Grandson Thanks, that story ruled!  Perhaps you should start shopping for 6 ft fly rods <g Best of luck and congratulations, — Warren Findley

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Question:

What weight rod is typically used when going after the fat Alberts?

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Peter, at least an 8 wt.  A 9 or 10 might be better because of the wind conditions if fishing from the island.  Most importantly, a reel with at least 200 yards of 20 lb. backing and a good disc drag.  HANG ON!! — Wayne To Fish is Human…To Release Divine! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What weight rod is typically used when going after the fat Alberts?

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What weight rod is typically used when going after the fat Alberts? A 9 wt is probably the most common, but I prefer a 10 wt. With a 10 wt you can really put the wood to a good size Albie. A large arbor such as a Tibor or Bauer is a big advantage. –tony

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Thanks for all responses. We are headed to Harkers Island at the end of October for our first try for the false albacore and were wondering about the tackle. Peter G. Aitken

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What weight rod is typically used when going after the fat Alberts? A 9 wt is probably the most common, but I prefer a 10 wt. With a 10 wt you can really put the wood to a good size Albie. A large arbor such as a Tibor or Bauer is a big advantage. –tony

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What weight rod is typically used when going after the fat Alberts?

Do yourself, and the fish, a favor and forget the 8 and 9 weights and stick to the 10 wt.  Use a heavy tippet so you can pressure th efish and get it in quicker, they will fight until they are dead otherwise.  I am using 20 pound fluorocarbon for a tippet.  It makes a difference.  Also check out flies tied on circle hooks for albies.  Work great.  The fish don’t get off at all.  Check the flytying page on my site for a rundown of patterns I like to use.  Good luck. — Capt Gordon Churchill http://www.flyfish-nc.com Flyfishing guide, instructor and flytier.

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Question:

Turn the Sage (with apologies to Bob Seager *and* Metallica): Here I am, On the road again, There I am, Totin’ the Sage, Here I go, Fishing afar again, There I go, Off to Maine. –Steve

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See ya there buddy….leaving tomorrow night…will be arriving with DT and SF…I know you check the web on the road ( I think )… ND#1  ( good song )

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Turn the Sage (with apologies to Bob Seager *and* Metallica): Here I am, On the road again, There I am, Totin’ the Sage, Here I go, Fishing afar again, There I go, Off to Maine. –Steve

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Sage doesn’t make a bamboo… I was thinking more along the lines… On the road again I just can’t wait to get on the road again. The life I love is fly fish’n with my friends, And I can’t wait to get on the road again T-14 hours and counting. Paul

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Turn the Sage (with apologies to Bob Seager *and* Metallica): Here I am, On the road again, There I am, Totin’ the Sage, Here I go, Fishing afar again, There I go, Off to Maine. –Steve

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There I go, Off to Maine. –Steve

        me, too, zimbo…that is, if i can even *find* raleigh, nc, at this time of the morning.         i plan to plant the regimental flag of the 55th north carolina, army of northern virginia, further north than it has ever been.         wayno – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Ditto…….T 1 1/2 hours ND#1

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sage doesn’t make a bamboo… I was thinking more along the lines… On the road again I just can’t wait to get on the road again. The life I love is fly fish’n with my friends, And I can’t wait to get on the road again T-14 hours and counting. Paul Turn the Sage (with apologies to Bob Seager *and* Metallica): Here I am, On the road again, There I am, Totin’ the Sage, Here I go, Fishing afar again, There I go, Off to Maine. –Steve

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…         i plan to plant the regimental flag of the 55th north carolina, army of northern virginia, further north than it has ever been.

How quaint. Reminds me of another regimental flag of the treasonous states captured by a Minnesota regiment of the Army of the Potomac and recently found in the vaults of the Minnesota Historical Society. Some bunch of history minded Johnnie Rebs from Ole Virginny wanted Minnesota to return their flag. Gov. Jesse Ventura, bless his pointy little head, told ‘em to forget about it, "we took it fair and square" was his official response. — Ken Fortenberry

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Some bunch of history minded Johnnie Rebs from Ole Virginny wanted Minnesota to return their flag. Gov. Jesse Ventura, bless his pointy little head, told ‘em to forget about it, "we took it fair and square" was his official response.

That’s why I really like Jesse. No mealy-mouthed pussy footing around the issues. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

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the issues.

I bet he didn’t even have to take a poll before that response either. Damn I miss Barry Goldwater. Big Dale

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. Damn I miss Barry Goldwater.

No shit. He was a true conservative, the kind that made me a R in my younger days. He had crazy ideas like the government staying out of people’s bedrooms, fiscal responsibility, stuff like that. And he was a pretty comitted environmentalist. Oh, no, wait. That’s not the Republican platform. Goldwater must’ve been just another damn liberal! — "Number 3: Put education first."  – from Geo. W.’s campaign website, list of his top ten concerns

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. Damn I miss Barry Goldwater. No shit. He was a true conservative, the kind that made me a R in my younger days. He had crazy ideas like the government staying out of people’s bedrooms, fiscal responsibility, stuff like that. And he was a pretty comitted environmentalist. Oh, no, wait. That’s not the Republican platform. Goldwater must’ve been just another damn liberal!

Don’t forget, towards the end the conservatives talked about kicking him out for his stance on abortion. — Charlie…

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bedrooms, fiscal responsibility, stuff like that. And he was a pretty comitted environmentalist. Oh, no, wait. That’s not the Republican platform. Goldwater must’ve been just another damn liberal!

I prefer to think that he was a liberterian before the tern was invented. He made points with me when he said that he thought Buchanen was a good democrat. Big Dale

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Yeah, though a libertarian won’t do anything to protect the environment (actually, won’t do anything to stop any private citizen from doing anything bad to any other private citizen short of the classic nine common-law felonies). P.S. Free bicentennial brownie button to anyone who can name those nine felonies. Here’s a hint (prepare for nostalgia, you law docs): mr and mrs lamb. Even more extra credit for anyone who remembers the two apple-stealing cases. — "If you want to live like a Republican, vote Democratic" — Harry S. Truman

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Question:

Does Dwight Lyons have a web site? Big Dale

Brain fart on my part, sorry I did not post it originally. http://www.teleport.com/~lyons/ — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas Before you buy.

Response:

Now that I’ve gotten a couple of years fishing under my belt, I’ve determined that I like fishing a slower action rod.   Short of purchasing a bamboo rod, I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight.

Hey maybe you can find a fiberglass rod you like, then you can really save some bucks.  I think Winston makes some, but that’s not exactly what I had in mind by saving a few bucks Regards, Jeff

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Short of purchasing a bamboo rod, I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight.

Don’t try a Scott G-series rod unless you are willing to spend a few bucks. Big Dale

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ROFFians: Now that I’ve gotten a couple of years fishing under my belt, I’ve determined that I like fishing a slower action rod. Short of purchasing a bamboo rod, I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight. Thanks much!

If money is no object and you want graphite there are only three choices inspite of all the suggestions you have recieved… They would be the: Winston Tom Morgan Favorite 8′ Four weight or any other Winston IM6 Series Trout rod. (note the 5 pc models are not moderate) Thomas and Thomas Paradigm Series Scott Powerply Series Money an object look at the Orvis Silver Label Mid Flex or if you want to try Glass Winston, Hardy, and Scott make nice ones but I recommend some glass rods sold by a Cane Rod maker in Oregon named Dwight Lyons. — Wayne Knight Expert in creating tailing loops and windknots Otherwise Fishless in Kansas Before you buy.

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I agree with Ken and Peter on the Orvis Superfine/Silver Label full flex models.  I have a Silver Label 792 (2wt, 7′9") and absolutely love it.  Like you, I prefer more moderate actions.  Some of the full flex versions of the Silver Labels are the exact same blank as the more expensive Superfines. Winston, T&T, Scott, Powell etc. are all outstanding though they will severely lighten the wallet. Another one worth checking into is the Sage DS2 series…..maybe a bit faster than the Orvis full flex models but still quite moderate. Tight Lines! Natty

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Janik) … I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight. Orvis Superfine (save some bucks and get the Silver Label version).     – Ken I second this – Orvis Far n’ Fine 7′ 9" in the silver label version – not expensive, unconditional warranty and one of the best all-round trout rods ever made for small to mid sized streams.  Throws a DT-4 quite well too.  We’ve had five of this series in the family and only one was less than satisfactory (3 wt. Tippet.)  If you’re interested in a 4 wt., then try the 7/11. If you’re planning on spending a bit more and fishing small streams then the Hardy Perfection E Glass 4 wt. 7′ 6" should be on your list. Walt at ezflyfish.com can give you the details.  I have the 6′ 6" 3 wt. version – fabulous little rod for tight, little streams.  I hear that its bigger brother is just as nice. Scott, Winston, and East Branch all have very good rods with medium – slow action as well. Peter

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How slow is slow?  I have a Sage DS that I love.  It is listed as a "medium" action, I think, by Sage.  It is slower that any other Sage other than the discontinued LL series.  The price for a 4 piece is about $250.00.  A great rod to try. Chris Brown

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some glass rods sold by a Cane Rod maker in Oregon named Dwight Lyons.

Does Dwight Lyons have a web site? Big Dale

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Hi All, This is a common thing in trout fly fishing. Normally, the more you fish, the better you cast. Now you can cast slower rods, so you move more in that direction. Most will cast the lightest, softest rod that will allow them to get the fly to the fish. This will allow you to land larger fish on lighter tippets.  This is not true for everyone, but it is a standard event around our shop in Sacramento, California, USA. Some softer rods: Loomis GL2, Sage SPL, Sage SP, Winston IM6, Scott G series……. Many companies will have a faster series and a slower series like ‘Thomas & Thomas’. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ROFFians: Now that I’ve gotten a couple of years fishing under my belt, I’ve determined that I like fishing a slower action rod. Short of purchasing a bamboo rod, I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight. Thanks much!

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ROFFians: Now that I’ve gotten a couple of years fishing under my belt, I’ve determined that I like fishing a slower action rod.   Short of purchasing a bamboo rod, I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight. Thanks much!

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… I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight.

Winston. — Ken Fortenberry

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I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight.

Scott G Series are moderate action and their Fibertouch are slow. — Charlie…

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… I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight.

Orvis Superfine (save some bucks and get the Silver Label version).      - Ken — "If any of you cry at my funeral, I’ll never speak to you again!"                                      - Stan Laurel

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… I would appreciate hearing any suggestions on manufacturers who make rods that that have a slower action.  It would most likely be a 4 or 5 weight. Orvis Superfine (save some bucks and get the Silver Label version).     – Ken

I second this – Orvis Far n’ Fine 7′ 9" in the silver label version – not expensive, unconditional warranty and one of the best all-round trout rods ever made for small to mid sized streams.  Throws a DT-4 quite well too.  We’ve had five of this series in the family and only one was less than satisfactory (3 wt. Tippet.)  If you’re interested in a 4 wt., then try the 7/11. If you’re planning on spending a bit more and fishing small streams then the Hardy Perfection E Glass 4 wt. 7′ 6" should be on your list. Walt at ezflyfish.com can give you the details.  I have the 6′ 6" 3 wt. version – fabulous little rod for tight, little streams.  I hear that its bigger brother is just as nice. Scott, Winston, and East Branch all have very good rods with medium – slow action as well. Peter

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Question:

Being somewhat of a vest freak, (along with several alternatives, the best of which is a chest halter with a couple of packs on it), at the last count, which was about five minutes ago, I owned 31 separate purpose built vests, jackets, halters, creels, and related equipment.

31 vests, etc., indeed. Take a look at: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/sp_ROFF_people/page1/connor/con… Mike looks like a desperate deserter from the Vietnam War. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

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Whiner. I wear a Columbia Sportswear vest I bought at the outlet center for under $20. It has zip-off fleece sleeves, so when it’s cool I can wear a fairly tight fleece vest under the fishing vest, then zip on /zip off/add/remove layers all I want. My .02. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Guys.  Thanks for the (fewer than I’d hoped) opinions on vests. Somehow, I thought the thread would have generated a lot more discussion.

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I wear an Orvis Battenkill Pro Guide Vest.   It was one of the few vests available in my size, XXXL  (I’m 6′4+ and 300Lbs+)  It is also big enough that I can layer clothing under it, and light enough that it doesn’t bother me wearing it all day long.  There’s plenty of space for everything I carry with me including some bulkier items such as a rain poncho, bottled water, a spare reel and spare spools. Of course the fact that I have no other vests, nor have I ever worn another,  I can’t comment on how it compares to any others…..  but it has worked thus far for this (large) newbie. Joshua – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   Guys.  Thanks for the (fewer than I’d hoped) opinions on vests. Somehow, I thought the thread would have generated a lot more discussion. Generally, everyone here has strong opinions on damn near everything.  I’m surprised everyone was so quiet about vest opinions.  I guess I should have said I was going to wear the vest in a burned wilderness area and wanted to look good when pilots checked me out with their binoculars:) Bob Skinner    Buffalo, WY —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

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Being somewhat of a vest freak, (along with several alternatives, the best of which is a chest halter with a couple of packs on it), at the last count, which was about five minutes ago, I owned 31 separate purpose built vests, jackets, halters, creels, and related equipment. Most of it is really excellent for one specific purpose, and just about useless for all others, or is at the best a severe compromise, for a whole variety of reasons. On reflection, the inevitable result is that no matter what I put on, it has some disadvantage owing to the  weather, water depth, ease of access, tackle carrying capacity, weight, lack of pockets, surfeit of pockets, etc, etc, or simply personal comfort, at the venue where I eventually arrive, after hours of agonising what to wear, and extremely difficult decisions about what I absolutely have to take along. This unfortunate situation is considerably exacerbated when I visit a new venue, and do not know what I might need, mainly because there are not many pockets big enough to accommodate a kitchen sink. My best overall fishing clothing is a GoreTex SAS camouflage jacket, but this is not suitable for use in very warm weather, when "full", ( the relatively little known "Connor

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I think you might be missing the point.  You are not Orvis.  Orvis makes a lot of money off their products and they are pretty big as fishing companies go.  While YOU might not be able to make a living giving fishing instruction for free, Orvis COULD.  The question is whether it would be better off in the long run to give them free or not. … Don’t look now Jeff, but Orivs HAS been in the business for the long run for a very long time.  Their practices don’t seem to have hurt them a great deal. …

I completely agree.  I was just pointing out what I thought the *question* was, not the answer Regards, Jeff

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Wolfgang,    You don’t mean that, you know what happens when you turn a hobby into a profession don’t you? Ernie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ……guides, professional fly-dressers, ski-teachers, tennis and golf pros etc. Whores, one and all.  That’s what it means to do it for money.  Would that I could do so! Wolfgang who’s been giving it away for free for far too long.

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I charge people a pretty solid hourly rate to teach them fishing, casting and fly tying. It’s taken me 35 years to get the experience I have today and I went to considerable effort (and expense) to get the qualifications I hold. I put a value on my time (and a price)  … even if you don’t

Well, it’s taken me 40 years to get my experience, (I’m a slow learner), and I am always willing to help a newcomer with tying or fishing free of charge. Furthermore, all things considered, I feel I put a higher value on my time even though I don’t attatch a price tag to it. If you don’t understand that concept, then there’s no way I can explain it to you. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

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I charge people a pretty solid hourly rate to teach them fishing, casting and fly tying. Well, it’s taken me 40 years to get my experience, (I’m a slow learner), and I am always willing to help a newcomer with tying or fishing free of charge.

If I’m not mistaken Tony is a professional casting instructor. I wouldn’t charge anything for sharing what little I know about flyfishing, but it would be a cold day in hell before I set up a Unix lab gratis. — Ken Fortenberry

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If you don’t understand that concept, then there’s no way I can explain it to you.

That belongs on http://www.vandruff.com/art_converse.html <g. — Charlie…

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Very difficult subject this.  Tony is an independent angling professional, he writes a lot about it, and he also has some of the best instructor qualifications available, which are quite difficult to achieve, he has to live from it. He really has no other option than to charge for it, and as he is good, he charges more. It is not really sensible to compare what he does to Orvis

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Vern, You may want to check out a Loomis GL4.  I am told that it is has a very similar action to the top of the line GLX (my rod), but at half the price ($250?).  I just somehow broke the tip on mine (a 5wt), and after inspection Loomis supplied a new tip section absolutely free.  I love this rod–very light, fast, with plenty of backbone.   Good shopping (Christmas is fast approaching), Pat K

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Surely driving over it the same side a few more times would have allowed him to shoot round corners?!! David – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My cousin an I were jump shooting ducks in some ponds down by the ocean. After we left I noticed my cousin’s old single shot 12 gauge wasn’t in the jeep.  We went back and it lay in the sand with tire tracks over the barrel. The barrel had a slight bend in it so I told my cousin to drive the jeep over it again while held it with the bent side up.  It worked and he hunted with that old gun for several years after that. Ernie Harrison Want to make tapered leaders?  http://home.pacbell.net/ernie2 I did something similar when I was a kid, but Dad’s casting rod was made of steel and was bent something awful.I still remember the look in some of my friends faces when I told them that all Dad said was "Well did you learn anything?"

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If it were me, I would contact the manufacturer. I have found most rod companies to be very sympathetic to accidents, especially if you tell them the truth about how it was broken. Usually not on a fish. Good luck.

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buddies. I did something similar when I was a kid, but Dad’s casting rod was made of steel and was bent something awful.I still remember the look in some of my friends faces when I told them that all Dad said was "Well did you learn anything?"   Big Dale

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<snipped Ugh, I remember doing that… Waaaaaay back when I got my first fly rod I tried to learn it all by my self and I had a Diawa Cherrywood Series rod. It was fairly light (About a 4-5 if I had to guess now) and I sure did not know how to use the thing. I ended up shutting the door on the tip and snapping it off. That was the end of that rod for me. Now I think I probably would try to re-tip it. That story also sends shudders through me as I am taking my five year old daughter out fishing once in a while and I will certainly keep that story in mind to make me more cautious! Hope it works out! Michael Era

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As the proud single parent of the Virtual Flybox I was so excited to learn that the very successful, publically traded corporation, About.Com thought highly enough of my humble web offering to write a feature article touting it’s accomplishments. If you have a spare minute or two please visit…  http://flyfishing.about.com/sports/fishhunt/flyfishing/mcurrent.htm …and ponder the praises…and you of course are always welcome to stop by the VFB. Thanks everyone…it wouldn’t have happened without you! keep tyin’…byard * * * * * * * * *   V I R T U A L    F L Y B O X    * * * * * * * * *    Fly Tyers Worldwide * Hundreds of Patterns * Tying Instructions                     http://www.VirtualFlybox.com * * * *   F E A T U R I N G   *  9 6 2  *   P A T T E R N S   * * * *

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Congratulations on your recent mention in About.com   I took a look at your link, are you on your way to commercial success? Making a web site is tough, even more so when you do it for fun… Have a great day!

Hi Adam… Thanks for the visit and the congrats! The Virtual Flybox was never or will ever be a commercial project. It was never my intent to profit from this venture. On the other hand, due to the mega-hours involved with the production of this website, some form of compensation had to be considered. So the institution of an advertising program was necessary as well as an appeal for financial support from the viewership. In the last year the VFB has served up over 1 million pages of information to flyfisherman worldwide. The hours involved in keeping abreast with this demand exceed 50 per week. My need for nutrition is the same as anyone elses…hence, what you may consider commercialism. BTW…you are doing a wonderful job with your Small Streams site…it has always been one of my favorites. keep tyin’…byard * * * * * * * * *   V I R T U A L    F L Y B O X    * * * * * * * * *    Fly Tyers Worldwide * Hundreds of Patterns * Tying Instructions                     http://www.VirtualFlybox.com * * * *   F E A T U R I N G   *  9 8 0  *   P A T T E R N S   * * * *

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Question:

Anyone know good spots in the Utica / Rome /Herkimer area?? Thanks Dave

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Dave, West Canada Creek is pretty good, as is Fly Creek between Cooperstown and Index on Rte 28.  If you head a little farther down into the Oneonta – Morris area both Otego Creek (Rte 205 & Cty Rte 11) and Butternut Creek in Morris right next to the Fairgrounds are also pretty good for small steam fishing. Hope this helps C. Segina

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