Question:

Mine or Dan’s? I am a disfunctional custom finish carpenter. Who longs to build everyone at least one perfect fishing rod. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods http://www.millenniumcustomrods.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What is your career field? Bill Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

What is your career field? Bill

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

MX I think! Wait till you see the whole site. Chris my new webmaster & I talked some to nite. Soon he will have our whole catalog, some 86 different — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods http://www.millenniumcustomrods.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey… I like that! Was that with Dreamweaver? Charles, he is in charge of flyrods only, by the way check out the new site. It is still under construction, but I really like the direction it is headed! — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods http://www.millenniumcustomrods.com I’ll volunteer for that field tester job Dave. LOL Dan, not only are we not closing up shop; we just got the final quotes form our supplier for the the spinning rods. Wish I could help you out in the employment field, shucks if this doesn’t play out I’ll likely be with you. Also we just finished a prototype 2 piece 8′6"  6wt. flyrod. Our feild tester has been having fits to get his hands on it since he first test cast it. So all you folks that fly fish for smallies, we’ve got you covered also. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

Hey… I like that! Was that with Dreamweaver?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Charles, he is in charge of flyrods only, by the way check out the new site. It is still under construction, but I really like the direction it is headed! — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods http://www.millenniumcustomrods.com I’ll volunteer for that field tester job Dave. LOL Dan, not only are we not closing up shop; we just got the final quotes form our supplier for the the spinning rods. Wish I could help you out in the employment field, shucks if this doesn’t play out I’ll likely be with you. Also we just finished a prototype 2 piece 8′6"  6wt. flyrod. Our feild tester has been having fits to get his hands on it since he first test cast it. So all you folks that fly fish for smallies, we’ve got you covered also. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

Charles, he is in charge of flyrods only, by the way check out the new site. It is still under construction, but I really like the direction it is headed! — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods http://www.millenniumcustomrods.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll volunteer for that field tester job Dave. LOL Dan, not only are we not closing up shop; we just got the final quotes form our supplier for the the spinning rods. Wish I could help you out in the employment field, shucks if this doesn’t play out I’ll likely be with you. Also we just finished a prototype 2 piece 8′6"  6wt. flyrod. Our feild tester has been having fits to get his hands on it since he first test cast it. So all you folks that fly fish for smallies, we’ve got you covered also. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Now Dave… if you’re gonna play with Connie’s computer… at least change the name. The idea of a less expensive rod sounds good. Can you compete though with places like Bass Pro Shops? I’m sure that there’s a much greater benefit from a semi-custom rod than the BPS specials, so you’ll have to stress that, as well as educate people like you have taught me. With that range of prices though… and the right salesman/sales pitch… you’d be running on the right track. Now… is this going to be feasible? Don’t forget that your time and talent is worth money as well. I don’t think that I’d drop the higher end line altogether… but rather keep them available when people begin to understand what a custom rod can do for them. I know that when I first began buying my rods, I was happy as a lark with the $20~$30 rods. As time came to replace them, I realized that if I wanted one that would last longer and help my confidence, I’d have to pay a little more. Once I got a really good rod in my hands, I knew that I’d never be happy with anything less. That’s why I came to you about my next rod. Hopefully, I’ll be able to drum you up a little business when I receive mine. I’ve already begun the teaching, and have impressed a few people. Wait until they see one of yours! Due to a recent downturn in the custom market we actually thought about closing up shop. And then an idea over came us. What if we could produce a line of rods in semi-production mode that would appeal to the more average angler.  To this end we are working with our suppliers to build a semi-custom rod at will retail for about $125.00 These rods will preform as well as our custom models yet, they will not have the frills. We are currently working on 10 models to include baitcastrs & spinning rods. We hope to have production models ready soon. These rods will be offered both in the retail market & as direct sales from our website. Which is now under going a major reconstruction. The new site will finally include our fly rod assembly. We hope that you will take the time in the coming months to check us out. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods

Response:

I’ll volunteer for that field tester job Dave. LOL

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dan, not only are we not closing up shop; we just got the final quotes form our supplier for the the spinning rods. Wish I could help you out in the employment field, shucks if this doesn’t play out I’ll likely be with you. Also we just finished a prototype 2 piece 8′6"  6wt. flyrod. Our feild tester has been having fits to get his hands on it since he first test cast it. So all you folks that fly fish for smallies, we’ve got you covered also. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!!

Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

Dan, not only are we not closing up shop; we just got the final quotes form our supplier for the the spinning rods. Wish I could help you out in the employment field, shucks if this doesn’t play out I’ll likely be with you. Also we just finished a prototype 2 piece 8′6"  6wt. flyrod. Our feild tester has been having fits to get his hands on it since he first test cast it. So all you folks that fly fish for smallies, we’ve got you covered also. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dave, I am glad that your not closing the doors.  Eventually I hope to have enough cash to order a rod from you, from all I have heard it will be great.  Now if you can help me find a job, I’ll order it right soon ;<} Good fishing and catching! No more dail-up! Guess I have to figure out how to change the "sig". The cable modem was a father’s day present. or birthday present, hhmmm perhaps both. Damn that means I am done for the year, and I didn’t get that Curado replaced. Double crap!!! Dan I’ve rambled enough, back to the rocking chair.  ZZZZZZZZZ Remove left x for a direct reply.

Response:

Now Dave… if you’re gonna play with Connie’s computer… at least change the name. The idea of a less expensive rod sounds good. Can you compete though with places like Bass Pro Shops? I’m sure that there’s a much greater benefit from a semi-custom rod than the BPS specials, so you’ll have to stress that, as well as educate people like you have taught me. With that range of prices though… and the right salesman/sales pitch… you’d be running on the right track. Now… is this going to be feasible? Don’t forget that your time and talent is worth money as well. I don’t think that I’d drop the higher end line altogether… but rather keep them available when people begin to understand what a custom rod can do for them. I know that when I first began buying my rods, I was happy as a lark with the $20~$30 rods. As time came to replace them, I realized that if I wanted one that would last longer and help my confidence, I’d have to pay a little more. Once I got a really good rod in my hands, I knew that I’d never be happy with anything less. That’s why I came to you about my next rod. Hopefully, I’ll be able to drum you up a little business when I receive mine. I’ve already begun the teaching, and have impressed a few people. Wait until they see one of yours!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Due to a recent downturn in the custom market we actually thought about closing up shop. And then an idea over came us. What if we could produce a line of rods in semi-production mode that would appeal to the more average angler.  To this end we are working with our suppliers to build a semi-custom rod at will retail for about $125.00 These rods will preform as well as our custom models yet, they will not have the frills. We are currently working on 10 models to include baitcastrs & spinning rods. We hope to have production models ready soon. These rods will be offered both in the retail market & as direct sales from our website. Which is now under going a major reconstruction. The new site will finally include our fly rod assembly. We hope that you will take the time in the coming months to check us out. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods

Response:

the light bill.  :-) — Jerry Barton www.jerrys-world.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Due to a recent downturn in the custom market we actually thought about closing up shop. And then an idea over came us. What if we could produce a line of rods in semi-production mode that would appeal to the more average angler.  To this end we are working with our suppliers to build a semi-custom rod at will retail for about $125.00 These rods will preform as well as our custom models yet, they will not have the frills. We are currently working on 10 models to include baitcastrs & spinning rods. We hope to have production models ready soon. These rods will be offered both in the retail market & as direct sales from our website. Which is now under going a major reconstruction. The new site will finally include our fly rod assembly. We hope that you will take the time in the coming months to check us out. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods

Response:

Due to a recent downturn in the custom market we actually thought about closing up shop. And then an idea over came us. What if we could produce a line of rods in semi-production mode that would appeal to the more average angler.  To this end we are working with our suppliers to build a semi-custom rod at will retail for about $125.00 These rods will preform as well as our custom models yet, they will not have the frills. We are currently working on 10 models to include baitcastrs & spinning rods. We hope to have production models ready soon. These rods will be offered both in the retail market & as direct sales from our website. Which is now under going a major reconstruction. The new site will finally include our fly rod assembly. We hope that you will take the time in the coming months to check us out. — Dave Norton Millennium Custom Rods

Response:

Question:

[...] PULEAZE cease with the html. Text only, thanks very much.

Response:

[snipped] <yawn how about yawning us an answer, eh mr. grey matter?

OK, if you promise not to top post any longer? There is no "answer", as anyone with a collection of more than a couple of flyrods (or over two dozen, in my case) will attest. We often allow ourselves "current favorites", and on occasion may even profess to a single "favorite" rod. But within a week we’re loving another just as much. We’re fickle. Sue us But, fwiw, I’ve got nothing better to do during rehab this morning, so I’ll play along: the finest five piece nine foot eight weight rod ever made is *my* Winston BL5 9/8. It has the sweetest action of any 8 or 9 weight in my stable (6 or 7 rods in that range) and you never notice the ferrules. It *is* the Holy Grail – if that happens to describe a highly portable bonefish and striper machine with no equal, period. OK? /daytripper (tune in later when I wax eloquent over my 7/2, or one of my 9/5s, or ….)

Response:

A couple fun questions for the group to chew on… What is the Holy Grail of flyrods?  Be specific.  Pick a single identifiable rod that you feel has more historical significance than any other.  Explain. The Leonard used by G.E.M. Skues.  It was more than a little responsible for some of his excellent writings and musings.

For me, there isn’t _one_ particular rod as there are too many that would fit the above description, and like most things involving tackle, no one would agree – one person’s "Holy Grail" is another’s flea-market, carnival glass candy dish.   For example, in no particular order, the above mentioned rod, rods used by Bergman, Ed Payne’s first rod (or a Payne-ferruled Leonard), Hemingway-owned rods, various Garrison rods (for example, very early rods, such as John Alden Knight’s or Miller’s "Wyandach" rod, or even the first of certain tapers) or even the borrowed Payne that started Garrison off.   Heck, even the rod(s) used in "the movie," or just the first split-bamboo, fiberglass, or graphite, etc. might qualify to one or more people. What is the Rolls Royce of flyrods?  Again, be specific.  Pick a single rod (or line of rods)that you feel represents the pinnacle of the rod building craft.  Explain. The Hexagraph range.  They combine all the desirable attributes of a good fishing rod, without the disadvantages.( excepting the relatively high price).

I suppose in very general terms, assuming a middle and general range of size, either the early Payne (the later Paynes are not, IMO, the rods the early rods were) or Garrison rods, given the "pinnacle of the rod building craft" condition.  But they have the disadvantage of needing a certain level of care.   That said, I don’t think there is a specific "Rolls-Royce of flyrods." A 6 1/2′ foot Payne to a saltwater fisher is little more than kindling, and a big Garrison with a large Fin-Nor to a small-stream trouter is a tentpole.  As to pure workmanship, I have a Payne-made multipart/multirod "set," thought to be a "one-off," that is probably the finest overall workmanship I’ve ever seen (and others have agreed), but as a true fishing "masterpiece," IMO, it’s marginal, given it’s bulk and as a whole, its overall lack of practicality.  But I also have what was a very inexpensive very light St. Croix glass, completely redone, that is as good at its purpose any I’ve used, and the finish is, again, IMO, as good as it comes. TC, R

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The Hexagraph range.  They combine all the desirable attributes of a good fishing rod, without the disadvantages.( excepting the relatively high price). fascinated by this, mike. Although I fish for salmon with B&W, this is the first good word I’ve heard about the hexagraph range. I’m shocked, btw, to learn that you’re even younger than I am. Ah those youthful days! Lazarus — Lazarus Cooke I know some of the rods from Bruce and Walker were pretty awful, in fact I cast a few.  This I feel was due to many of them having the wrong design characteristics. I did  not handle them all, and none of the salmon rods, so my comments are rather general in nature, and should not be construed as a general condemnation of the B&W rods.

I fish for salmon either with a 9 foot hardy – the first rod I bought – 6/7 weight, on which I’ve also caught most of my salmon, or on a B&W ‘Silver Stream’ 12 foot, which was never highly regarded but which I love, or a lovely rod (to my hand) – a very gentle 15 foot B&W ‘grilse’ – only 6 or 7 weight, but terrific for covering bouldery streams – quite big – like the upper reaches of the Finn, in Donegal, or the Mourne, in Tyrone, which are my favourite salmon rivers. These two rods are  quite slow, but they don’t get all nervous in the big winds of the West of Ireland, and you can keep control of the line and, if you’re lucky, the fish, in amongst all those boulders. So I like B&W a lot. SNIP As I have also said before, these rods are "fishing" tools, not "casting" tools. If you want a cannon, then get a super fast Sage or Loomis etc.  If you want pleasurable tireless fishing on rivers and streams, get either a good cane, ( not my preference, too much trouble,, and too expensive anyway), or a Hexagraph.

I agree with this distinction. Especially with salmon, you have to enjoy casting, rather than worry about it, since you may end up doing an awful lot of it for any fish you may hook. So I’m all for an easy, pleasant action rather than something that shoots the line a bit further. And few of the trout I catch are hooked more than (at the most) fifteen yards away. Occasionally, for fun, I’ll  cast a trout line further, but it’s only for the fun. i know that at that sort of distance the fly will be dragging enough for the fish to see, even if I can’t. That said, I’m very fond of a couple of rods I built myself from Sage reject blanks at fifty bucks apiece. L — Lazarus Cooke

Response:

<snip Deal with it, luser… /daytripper (who still doesn’t suffer newbie fools very well at all)

I dunno, Dave. I think you showed amazing restraint. I thought his indignant reply to your post would *really* set you off!  :) Tim

Response:

Oh, blow it out your ample arse, newbie. Someone posts an obvious troll ("duckin’ and runnin’", wasn’t it?) and you expect RESPECT for that act? /daytripper (who still doesn’t suffer newbie fools very well at all)

Well, at least he didn’t ask what everyone’s favorite "social lubricant" was…under the name of "Trixie ‘Biguns’ LaBoom"…from Dripping Springs, Texas… TC, R "standing tall and taunting…."

Response:

The Hexagraph range.  They combine all the desirable attributes of a good fishing rod, without the disadvantages.( excepting the relatively high price).

fascinated by this, mike. Although I fish for salmon with B&W, this is the first good word I’ve heard about the hexagraph range. I’m shocked, btw, to learn that you’re even younger than I am. Ah those youthful days! Lazarus — Lazarus Cooke

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The Hexagraph range.  They combine all the desirable attributes of a good fishing rod, without the disadvantages.( excepting the relatively high price). fascinated by this, mike. Although I fish for salmon with B&W, this is the first good word I’ve heard about the hexagraph range. I’m shocked, btw, to learn that you’re even younger than I am. Ah those youthful days! Lazarus — Lazarus Cooke

I know some of the rods from Bruce and Walker were pretty awful, in fact I cast a few.  This I feel was due to many of them having the wrong design characteristics. I did  not handle them all, and none of the salmon rods, so my comments are rather general in nature, and should not be construed as a general condemnation of the B&W rods. The first carbon fibre rods I handled, were also pretty lousy, as they were obvious attempts to duplicate cane actions. Carbon fibre does not possess many of the limitations of cane, and it seems pretty pointless to duplicate cane rods in this manner. It is in any case impossible to even duplicate cane accurately, unless you also consider the weight, which contributes to the action.  Saying that an ultra-light carbon fibre rod has the same "action" as cane is absolute nonsense, it can not have the same action, it simply does not possess sufficient mass. Notwithstanding its limitations, cane also has advantages. One of these is the "solid" construction. This contributes weight of course, but also gives the rod capabilities which an ultra-light tubular carbon fibre rod simply does not have. You may need to apply so much power to an ultra-light rod, to get it to perform at all, that it becomes infinitely more tiring to use, than a rod which is heavier to start with. One reason why many are now using fibreglass rods again. If these are relatively short, there is no noticeable disadvantage due to excess weight, in fact it is a positive advantage when casting. They are not as troublesome to care for as cane, and they are not as easily damaged either. Also, the "transition" point of a solid rod, the point before which a rod is capable of loading itself, because of its own mass, is much more pronounced, and much more useful for close range work with light lines. Some tubular rods are impossible to cast properly at short range, because one can not move them fast enough to load them. This also considerably reduces the delicacy with which one is able to cast. This, which I consider to be probably the single most important characteristic of a cane rod, can be not only duplicated, but enhanced, using the solid "hexagraph" construction. The resulting blank is perfectly straight, can not warp, is extremely robust, and more or less invulnerable to weather or any other similar damage. It will not take a set, it will cast in a perfectly straight line, without "wobbling", it has no pronounced "spine", ( it has none at all), the deformation common in tubular rods under stress does not take place, it will cast a wide range of weights easily,  etc etc etc. For a long time, it was my ambition to build such a rod, and make the materials and processes available to the home builder. Unfortunately I never realised it. The closest I ever got was building a hexagonal rod tip using fibre glass.  It took me a long time to make it, and the results, although encouraging, did not really warrant the amount of time involved. I am sure that if I could have used carbon fibre, that they would have been much better. I have read a great deal about the hexagraphs, and I have handled quite a few. For quite a while I snapped up all the second hand ones I could get hold of, as far as I could afford them, and I even bought three new ones. Incidentally the only "new" rods I have ever bought in my entire life, which were not either damaged, or heavily discounted in the first place. If I ever have the wherewithal, I would throw all the rods I own away, ( even the "good" ones), and buy myself a range of the new Hexagraphs. I think they are just about the ultimate fishing tool, at this particular point in time. As I have also said before, these rods are "fishing" tools, not "casting" tools. If you want a cannon, then get a super fast Sage or Loomis etc.  If you want pleasurable tireless fishing on rivers and streams, get either a good cane, ( not my preference, too much trouble,, and too expensive anyway), or a Hexagraph. TL MC

Response:

<yawn So sorry my posts don’t amuse you, oh great and powerful Caesar. Please don’t feed me to the lions!  I’ll try harder to please you next time, I promise. Do you treat all strangers with such disrespect?  I guess it’s pretty easy when you have a screen name to hide behind. Pete Greenwood

Oh, blow it out your ample arse, newbie. Someone posts an obvious troll ("duckin’ and runnin’", wasn’t it?) and you expect RESPECT for that act? Here’s what you earned so far: one FOAD on your permanent record. My "screen name" has been here for years and years, and the person behind it is known to far more of the denizens than yours shall ever be. Deal with it, luser… /daytripper (who still doesn’t suffer newbie fools very well at all)

Response:

A couple fun questions for the group to chew on… What is the Holy Grail of flyrods?  Be specific.  Pick a single identifiable rod that you feel has more historical significance than any other.  Explain. What is the Rolls Royce of flyrods?  Again, be specific.  Pick a single rod (or line of rods)that you feel represents the pinnacle of the rod building craft.  Explain. Ducking and covering… Pete Greenwood

Response:

[snipped] <yawn

Response:

how about yawning us an answer, eh mr. grey matter?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – [snipped] <yawn

Response:

<yawn

So sorry my posts don’t amuse you, oh great and powerful Caesar. Please don’t feed me to the lions!  I’ll try harder to please you next time, I promise. Do you treat all strangers with such disrespect?  I guess it’s pretty easy when you have a screen name to hide behind. Pete Greenwood

Response:

A couple fun questions for the group to chew on… What is the Holy Grail of flyrods?  Be specific.  Pick a single identifiable rod that you feel has more historical significance than any other.  Explain.

The Leonard used by G.E.M. Skues.  It was more than a little responsible for some of his excellent writings and musings. What is the Rolls Royce of flyrods?  Again, be specific.  Pick a single rod (or line of rods)that you feel represents the pinnacle of the rod building craft.  Explain.

The Hexagraph range.  They combine all the desirable attributes of a good fishing rod, without the disadvantages.( excepting the relatively high price). Ducking and covering… Pete Greenwood

Casting and mending…. TL MC

Response:

Question:

Can anyone give me some advice on a fly fishing life vest or personal floatation device? I’m interested in a model I can wear under my fishing vest when wading a river. I already purchased a standard vest, so hopefully the response isn’t to buy a vest with a floatation ballon built in (if they even manufacture something like that). What do people use when wading a river? Obviously, price isn’t really an issue… Thanks, Ryan

Response:

http://www.sospenders.com/models.html Look about halfway down the screen. I’d go with a manual (pull the lanyard) model. /daytripper (standard disclaimers apply) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Can anyone give me some advice on a fly fishing life vest or personal floatation device? I’m interested in a model I can wear under my fishing vest when wading a river. I already purchased a standard vest, so hopefully the response isn’t to buy a vest with a floatation ballon built in (if they even manufacture something like that). What do people use when wading a river? Obviously, price isn’t really an issue… Thanks, Ryan

Response:

Cabela’s and Pro Bass carry the Sospenders.  I got mine from Orvis a couple of years ago when the sold out at 50% off.  These things are great for tubing as you don’t even know they are on.  I think they have two sizes and the smaller is ok for most applications. DP

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone give me some advice on a fly fishing life vest or personal floatation device? I’m interested in a model I can wear under my fishing vest when wading a river. I already purchased a standard vest, so hopefully the response isn’t to buy a vest with a floatation ballon built in (if they even manufacture something like that). What do people use when wading a river? Obviously, price isn’t really an issue… Thanks, Ryan

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Question:

Hello Ken, This is something I’ve been doing quite a bit in the last couple of years. I’m certainly no expert, but here are a few thoughts.. For tackle I recommend a fairly stiff 8 weight rod with a Lamson reel.  You can get away with Pfleuger or a Scientific Angler but they’ll require more care and aren’t as smooth.  Use 20 lb. dacron backing.  Nothing your going to hook is going to run that far.  Even a big red usually stays within 100 yds of where he was hooked so you don’t need Bonefish gear. This rig will handle bass, redfish, speckled trout and the occasional flounder.  You’ll have to deal with wind.  Just the way it goes.  Try the Scientific Anglers Mastery series Wind Cheater line.  Helps a bit.  I also use a slow sinking line a lot and it’s a bit easier to cast into the wind.  I’d go with the Wind Cheater to start with.  Takes some of the edge off of being a beginner. The single most effective lure for me is a chartreuse/white Clouser minnow. Works on Reds and Specks under most circumstances.  Later you can go with some crab patterns for Reds and some Seaducers and Leftys Deceivers for Specks. Don’t discount Crazy Charlies either.. great under the lights for Specks. There are other patterns.. Roadkills, different shrimp imitations, but if you head out with half-a-dozen Clousers and a couple or lighter streamers, you’ll handle most of what you encounter. Is this what you wanted to know? Andy Schreckenghost Houston TX – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am new to fly fishing and in need of information for fishing in the coastal bend.  For instance reel and rod recommendations.  I hear that the wind is a consideration when fishing in the bay. I would appreciate any information. Thank you, Ken Clay

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I am new to fly fishing and in need of information for fishing in the coastal bend.  For instance reel and rod recommendations.  I hear that the wind is a consideration when fishing in the bay. I would appreciate any information. Thank you, Ken Clay

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Question:

Matt, This isn’t a "trip report" – this is a "day in the life report" and I hate you for it! Stop posting cruel things like this. -Greg – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I moved into a new house last month that has a trout stream running thruogh the backyard. Seeing as how work is slow (like I just said there’s a trout stream in the backyard) and my truck’s broken down (really too bad), I’ve had lots of time to get familiar with my new home waters. Today proved to be one of the finest days yet. I’ve been working on fishing the entire thing and today I managed to fish one of the branches all the way to its source. The crest of the blue ridge mtns. (that’s the only clue you’ll get).Today, I found brookie heaven. The weather was perfect, the water is finally back to normal and the fish wouldn’t leave my fly alone. I watched more than one fish strike at the fly three times before gitting a hold on it. One after another we hauled em. I was using a big fly (sz. 12 wooly bugger) so the little guys were having a hard time getting a grip on it. This was fine though, the fun is in the strike. I managed to land about 5 or 6 before pangs of hunger drove me home. I’ve gotta start remembering to bring along a snack.Tomorrow I’m fishing a different branch too see if it might be a "second heaven". I’ll keep you posted…P.S. Sorry to hear you didn’t catch any fish walt. Better luck next time

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believer in stocked trout breakfasts with eggs over easy, sourdough toast, French Market Coffee, and buttermilk pancakes, WITH maple syrup.

Yikes! I guess that explains your "Frequent Cardiac Surgery Card", George! ;^) /daytripper

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believer in stocked trout breakfasts with eggs over easy, sourdough toast, French Market Coffee, and buttermilk pancakes, WITH maple syrup.

George, I thought you told me you were diebetic.  (?) All those carbs AND sugar! Dave

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I moved into a new house last month that has a trout stream running thruogh the backyard. Seeing as how work is slow (like I just said there’s a trout stream in the backyard) and my truck’s broken down (really too bad), I’ve had lots of time to get familiar with my new home waters. Today proved to be one of the finest days yet. I’ve been working on fishing the entire thing and today I managed to fish one of the branches all the way to its source. The crest of the blue ridge mtns. (that’s the only clue you’ll get). Today, I found brookie heaven. The weather was perfect, the water is finally back to normal and the fish wouldn’t leave my fly alone. I watched more than one fish strike at the fly three times before gitting a hold on it. One after another we hauled em. I was using a big fly (sz. 12 wooly bugger) so the little guys were having a hard time getting a grip on it. This was fine though, the fun is in the strike. I managed to land about 5 or 6 before pangs of hunger drove me home. I’ve gotta start remembering to bring along a snack. Tomorrow I’m fishing a different branch too see if it might be a "second heaven". I’ll keep you posted… P.S. Sorry to hear you didn’t catch any fish walt. Better luck next time

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Wonderful little stream near Boone.  Fish it often and enjoy the Brookies as well as some of the local company.  Glad you like it too.  See you there! Wayne To fish is human…to release divine.     I moved into a new house last month that has a trout stream running thruogh the backyard. Seeing as how work is slow (like I just said there’s a trout stream in the backyard) and my truck’s broken down (really too bad), I’ve had lots of time to get familiar with my new home waters. Today proved to be one of the finest days yet. I’ve been working on fishing the entire thing and today I managed to fish one of the branches all the way to its source. The crest of the blue ridge mtns. (that’s the only clue you’ll get).     Today, I found brookie heaven. The weather was perfect, the water is finally back to normal and the fish wouldn’t leave my fly alone. I watched more than one fish strike at the fly three times before gitting a hold on it. One after another we hauled em. I was using a big fly (sz. 12 wooly bugger) so the little guys were having a hard time getting a grip on it. This was fine though, the fun is in the strike. I managed to land about 5 or 6 before pangs of hunger drove me home. I’ve gotta start remembering to bring along a snack.     Tomorrow I’m fishing a different branch too see if it might be a "second heaven". I’ll keep you posted…     P.S. Sorry to hear you didn’t catch any fish walt. Better luck next time

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P.S. Sorry to hear you didn’t catch any fish walt. Better luck next time

your condolences are most welcome, guess they couldn’t see my size 20 dry in all that big moving water. that’s ok….. i probably should have tied on an "ollie" like you did. for gods sake, it’s january, too early for dries. waldo

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Walt, you might want to go smaller next time. The sulphurs won’t be hatching for months;) Try a 28 midge, they were nailing them last week. You were fishing the stocked section, right? <grin I heard those fish were easy to    -**** Posted from remarQ, Discussions Start Here(tm) ****- http://www.remarq.com/ – Host to the the World’s Discussions & Usenet

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Walt, you might want to go smaller next time. The sulphurs won’t be hatching for months;) Try a 28 midge, they were nailing them last week. You were fishing the stocked section, right? <grin I heard those fish were easy to    -**** Posted from remarQ, Discussions Start Here(tm) ****- http://www.remarq.com/ – Host to the the World’s Discussions & Usenet

believer in stocked trout breakfasts with eggs over easy, sourdough toast, French Market Coffee, and buttermilk pancakes, WITH maple syrup.

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Matt, That post just shows what a low down bum you really are!  Here’s the rest of the world, slaving away at the daily grind and YOU are fishing – in the backyard no less!!! Have you NO shame?! Tom — Tom Brown The Signal Group Wake Forest, NC "If you’re not the lead dog, the view never changes."

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Question:

Mike Conner is the kind of fly fishing gentleman that I would  welcome to have him set up his fly tying vise next to mine and spend several days together . . . musing and inventing and comparing signatures.  Mike Conner always has a chair waiting him in my den of fly fishing affairs. Mr. G.

Well that is very kind of you George and I am sure you mean it, and I thank you for saying it. I am sure that if we stuck to flyfishing we would have a great time. I am proud of the fact that you invited me. Unfortunately I do not think I would be able to accept an invitation at the moment, especially in the light of some of your recent posts. My views on some things are obviously diametrically opposed to some of yours, and I am very much afraid we would end up in a heated argument, having nothing whatever to do with flyfishing ,  to no good purpose.  I do not wish to be unfriendly or insulting to you, in fact  I respect many of your achievements, and I have tried hard to be friendly, notwithstanding a few run ins we had on earlier occasions, but feel I must state the case as I see it. It is not my place to censure you publicly, this is a free group and you have the right to say what you like, and I am sure you can get along very well without my presumptuous advice. I will presume to give you some anyway, which is meant sincerely from someone who is truly trying his best to be friendly and helpful. Please try and moderate your tone in your posts, and try and think a bit more before you jump in with both feet on any and all subjects.  You have succeeded in upsetting a great many people recently, some very badly,  to no good purpose, and this will only result in unfriendliness, insults etc being cast in your direction, and is also bad for the group as a whole. You obviously have a lot to offer this group, and it is a shame that you constantly undermine your own position with nonsensical ranting and ill-considered statements or insults to all and sundry. It sometimes looks as if you were purposely inflaming people and making enemies of them deliberately. You must know yourself that this is no good, either for your person or your business.  Please George, take a rest and look back at some of your posts in the cold light of day, and I am sure you will realise that this sort of thing does nobody any good. Of seventy posts you sent in a very short space of time at least half were denigrating and insulting to somebody.   If you screw up on something, OK, so what, we all do occasionally, but most of us accept this and attempt to rectify matters as soon as possible. Blustering away as if nothing had occurred is not the way to do this. I accept and respect the fact that you are angry about the wanton destruction of the wilderness, and many other things, and your genuine desire to rectify matters, so are many others on this group and elsewhere. The methods proposed and the  type of posting you have been using is not the way to advance. The same goes for insulting remarks about your competitors, involved political harangues, or jumping on somebody who advocates using some other product etc etc etc.  George believe me please, these are not the actions of a wise man. Maybe you are subjecting yourself to too much stress in all your various efforts to change the world and make it a better place. I can understand your passion in this, in fact I am certain many on this group feel similarly, allowing your unbridled passion free rein , is a very bad way of going about it however, and does not particularly enhance the clarity of your arguments, or your chances of success, and probably blinds you to reality to some extent, so that you strike out illogically at anything even remotely concerned with the subject, in a manner and tone which is guarateed to upset people. Quiet considered argumentation backed up by a good example is far more liable to be successful, and would result in mutual respect and greater friendliness on the part of all concerned. I thought very carefully indeed before posting this to the group, as opposed to just privately, as I do not on any account wish you to take this as an insult. I feel however somebody must say these things to you as directly as possible so that there is no possible chance of misunderstanding, and that there are people on the group who would also like to say them, but are for various reasons reluctant to do so, but would nevertheless like to see them said. George, please do me one more favour. Read this post carefully several times. Go away and think about it for a while, and then come back and read it again before you reply. Perhaps we may yet sit down one day in your den and tie a few flies or down a few grouses. I would like to think so. Whatever you may think or say George. I wish you well. Sincerely Mike Connor

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Are you related to Jimmy Connors? I was once flamed for misspelling his name.

No relation, and I dont play tennis, but I do have balls If I flamed everybody who spelled my name wrongly, my fingers would be smoking, and I would need a new keyboard twice a week. Tait  leins ! Maik Koner

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 Mike Conner is the kind of fly fishing gentleman that I would  welcome to have him set up his fly tying vise next to mine and spend several days together . . . musing and inventing and comparing signatures.  Mike Conner always has a chair waiting him in my den of fly fishing affairs. Mr. G.

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 Hell Wayno, where is the mouthpiece on a golf club ? Tight lines ! Mike Connor,  the ignorant

Wayne Harrison’s ass so bad, he will confess humbleness. —

Question:

Classic Sports International will hold several CME CAT.1 approved Medical-Dental-Legal seminars at great fly fishing locations this year including Peace & Plenty Bonefish Lodge,Exuma,Bahamas(May 29-June 2) Five Rivers Lodge, Montana(June 26-30) and King Salmon Lodge,Alaska

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Classic Sports International will hold several CME CAT.1 approved Medical-Dental-Legal seminars at great fly fishing locations this year including Peace & Plenty Bonefish Lodge,Exuma,Bahamas(May 29-June 2) Five Rivers Lodge, Montana(June 26-30) and King Salmon Lodge,Alaska

No Doctors or Attorneys wanted Please do not attempt to book trips with me After 20 years of outfitting I refuse to take Doc’s or Sharks Go to Montana and fish for no talent ,stupid cutthroat or Alaska,another If your looking to bilk us taxpayers for your fishing trips see above post As an American I can honestly say we are proud that you are so concerned about your continuing education that you feel WE should pay for it. Bend over America here come the Doc’s & Sharks

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Question:

I will be staying on the beach at Ambergris Cay in mid October.  I plan on doing some guided fishing (tarpon, bonefish, etc…), but what about just flingin’ flies from the beach (fairly secluded)?  Are there snappers, etc available to throw small clousers to, or some other type of "saltwater panfish" to occupy an early morning of walking the beach?  Any suggestions on flies to bring and species available would be most appreciated. Paul DiConza Albany, NY

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: I will be staying on the beach at Ambergris Cay in mid October.  I plan on : doing some guided fishing (tarpon, bonefish, etc…), but what about just : flingin’ flies from the beach (fairly secluded)?  Are there snappers, etc : available to throw small clousers to, or some other type of "saltwater : panfish" to occupy an early morning of walking the beach?  Any suggestions : on flies to bring and species available would be most appreciated. Great question.  Please answer in the group.  Thanks. — Rick (who would like to do this himself, very soon.) T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Assistant professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    |  These University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    |  opinions Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. |  are mine.

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I will be staying on the beach at Ambergris Cay in mid October.  I plan on doing some guided fishing (tarpon, bonefish, etc…), but what about just flingin’ flies from the beach (fairly secluded)?  Are there snappers, etc available to throw small clousers to, or some other type of "saltwater panfish" to occupy an early morning of walking the beach?  Any suggestions on flies to bring and species available would be most appreciated. Paul DiConza Albany, NY

I was down in Belize a month ago and had a great time.  On the first morning I was preparing my rods and had a school of bonefish pass within fifty feet of the beach and had one on with the second cast.  There are plenty of "SW panfish" everywhere but you will have to use smaller flies.  I had my best luck with size 8 and 10 crazy charlies in Olive, olive brown,pink puffs (pink head white wings), tan and some orange.  You might have a hard time finding size 10 SW hooks and the only source I found was Partridge.  We ended up using 6 wt. rods most of the time stepping up to 8 wt. for permit and both with 15-18′ leaders.  Found that 3 feet of flourocarbon tippet of the end of a 15′ leader worked great.  We had many fish over 5Lbs. with the biggest landed fish of the week at 7lbs.  Saw plenty of bonefish over ten and a few golden bones.  Planning on going down again the end of March 97. EYES ON CHARLIES MINI, X-SMALL AND SMALL Good fishing,                      Marcos Vergara                      Fly & Field, Inc.

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Anywhere there is surf and coral you can catch small snappers, grouper and other stuff.  A wire leader is advisable.  The groupers will go to holes and have to be pulle out/

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Question:

I believe you mean Angling Specialties in Concord, don’t you. You could do a lot worse. They run a good shop in my view. They also have branches in Mississauga and Scarborough. Skinners in fine and with a long .. um .. "tradition" … which along with the expensive real estate tends to be a factor on your bill. — David A. Calderisi

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Does any one Know of any fly shops in the greater Toronto area?? I’ve been to Fishing Specialties in Concord just north of Toronto. I would like to know if there are any others.

Loris; Skinner Sport, 50 King Street East, Toronto         Right downtown, great store (biggest collection of flies I’ve ever seen) good people if a little strange. If you want an Orvis shop there is a new(er) one in Fergus about an hour away. Grand River Troutfitters, 790 Tower St. Fergus. Owner Ken Collins. He will ship if you call him. (519) 787-4359 Hope it helps —                         Dept. OB/GYN                         University of Western Ontario                         London, Ontario, CANADA

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there are a total of 3 separate Angling Specialties in the Toronto area, each with slightly different inventories and trun over rates.  In addition to these there is Skinners on king downtown, a toronto institution.  THere stock is on the light side but they are the only Orvis dealer around.  If you are willing to dirve to the KW guelph are there are several excellent shops.  Kingsway in north Guelph has an excellent fly tying section.  Natrual sports in kitchener is pretty good to.  There is the forks fly shop in inglewoood and northeast anglers in grimsby.  Lebaron in toronto (2 locations) is good for terminal tackle Best prices around.  And of course in oshawa there are a couple more shops.  Your best bet is to go to the fly forum the first week end in april. Ian Feir – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Does any one Know of any fly shops in the greater Toronto area?? I’ve been to Fishing Specialties in Concord just north of Toronto. I would like to know if there are any others. Thanx in advance and tight lines, Loris

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Hi all, Does any one Know of any fly shops in the greater Toronto area?? I’ve been to Fishing Specialties in Concord just north of Toronto. I would like to know if there are any others. Thanx in advance and tight lines, Loris

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Question:

Jensen) writes: Looking for foul weather gear

I would not look too hard for a bargin when looking for raingear, you will regret it later.  Get yourself some Grundens, Guy Cottons, or as a last resort some Helly Hansons(although Hellys have really gone down hill lately).  I work in the seafood industry in Alaska, and I have found that Grundens makes the best raingear out there.  And you can get it in day glow colors if you want to.  Look at comercial fishing outlets for them.

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: I would not look too hard for a bargin when looking for raingear, you will : regret it later.  Get yourself some Grundens, Guy Cottons, or as a last : resort some Helly Hansons(although Hellys have really gone down hill : lately).  I work in the seafood industry in Alaska, and I have found that : Grundens makes the best raingear out there.  And you can get it in day : glow colors if you want to.  Look at comercial fishing outlets for them. faulies, not me. But I would like to check out a commercial supplier in LA or OC, just to see what’s there.  Anyone know where to find one?

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-    I’m looking for foul weather gear but don’t want to pay the high prices – that the local stores charge.  Is there a good mail order place for this – stuff? I recently found a Helly Hansen mfg’s outlet store near Kenosha, Wisconsin.  I think they were just trying to sell yuppie sweaters and similar trendy stuff and they had their real foul weather gear on the shelf just to impress people. Never the less, they did have everything from their low end, $120 suits, to their high end, $900 suits.  They also had a hand written tag that explained in detail why each item was a mfg defect.  If I didn’t already have a suit I would have been very tempted to buy a $270 suit for $180 because they got their name embrodered on the wrong corner of the pocket. G. Jackson

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        I postedthis elsewhere so I’ll post it here.  Don’t get sucked in by all that expensive sailing oriented shit.  Read on.      On my first ocean cruise in 1981, I bought some "Offshore" foul weather gear at R.E.I. in Seattle.  Total piece of shit. After some pretty rough usage (we lost a rudder) and 31 days at sea, the seams leaked.  I took them back to R.E.I.  They said that they wern’t meant for the kind of sailing I do, but for the "weekend" sailor." I said "Well why the fuck! do you call it "Offshore"? To make a long story short, they wouldn’t refund my money and it just confirmed my opinion of R.E.I. as a fashion house for frustrated yuuppies. Growing up in Seattle, I have resisted the R.E.I Clone look mightily although I have to admit, Pile Jackets are great for me as I’m allergic to wool.      Where is this leading to?      Buy Helly Hansen fisherman foul weather gear. No seams, no fly, no pockets, NO LEAK!!!!  I’ve worn mine for 10 years fishing in Alaska and California and on many trans ocean sails.  Still wearing them.  My mother is borrowing them for a river rafting trip this month.  About $80 last time I bought (I have two pair) — — Turn off ascii capture on the personal computer 4;1H Press the <Return Key to return to mail … —

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     On my first ocean cruise in 1981, I bought some "Offshore" foul weather gear at R.E.I. in Seattle.  Total piece of shit. After some pretty rough usage (we lost a rudder) and 31 days at sea, the seams leaked.  I took them back to R.E.I.  They said that they wern’t meant for the kind of sailing I do, but for the "weekend" sailor."I said "Well why the fuck! do you call it "Offshore"? To make a long story short, they wouldn’t refund my money and it just confirmed my opinion of R.E.I. as a fashion house for frustrated yuuppies. Growing up in Seattle, I have resisted the R.E.I Clone look mightily although I have to admit, Pile Jackets are great for me as I’m allergic to wool.      Where is this leading to?      Buy HELLY HANSEN fisherman foul weather gear. No seams, no fly, no pockets, NO LEAK!!!! And they are tough as steel and easy to patch. I’ve worn mine for 10 years fishing in Alaska and California and on many trans ocean sails.  Still  wearing them.  My mother is borrowing them for a river rafting  trip this month.  About $80 last time I bought (I have two pair) —

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     I’m looking for foul weather gear but don’t want to pay the high prices that the local stores charge.  Is there a good mail order place for this stuff?                                      we suck!"

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:      I’m looking for foul weather gear but don’t want to pay the high prices : that the local stores charge.  Is there a good mail order place for this : stuff? I wouldn’t do it.  I would rather have something that fits.  I ended up with a "Grotto" jacket from Boat/US and Explorer trousers from West Marine because each fit properly.  (I can hear them fighting in the closet.) It’s kind of hit and miss because everything is S/M/L/XL. My biggest disapointment was the lack of rad colors. And my BIG IDEA, now placed in the public domain, is glow-in-the-dark zippers – so you can get them on at 3 am.

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