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:

Good advice Jon; take it. — Wayne To Fish is Human…To Release Divine! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think you misspelt "opinion". In any case, some things are better kept to oneself. JonCook.

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Frank, We’re just about 10 miles from the Rappahannock near Fredericksburg.  I live on the PO River.  Bluegills so big behind my house your pontoon boat would go for a sleigh ride!  Bring a 7 wt.!  Looks like we might have to postpone the Brookie trip Dianna and I had planned for tomorrow.  She bought me a strange here.  I bought her a fishing outfit and she bought me yard work tools.   hmmmmm…… I can’t quite put my finger on it but soething seems amiss. Wayne To Fish is Human…To Release Divine!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – lotsa snippage here of a great time had by Wayne…… Wayne, congrats on winning MC’s rod, I’m sure you’ll put it to good use. Of course you realize now that Dianna is outfitted and had a taste of ff’ing, your outfit is not complete…send me your snail mail addy and I’ll send you a matched set of a knife and fork to help you eat all that crow and humble pie  :-) …. before long Dianna will be outfishing you (just ask Rich Warren aka Debbies fishin’ pardner)  Still and all you’re a lucky man to have a wife interested in your favorite sport.  Whereabouts do you live in VA?  I get down to the eastern part fairly often (Roanoke/Lynchburg area) and haunt the Maury and James River for smallies. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

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I’ll just hazard a guess here….she has your number!  :-) Frank Church – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Frank, We’re just about 10 miles from the Rappahannock near Fredericksburg.  I live on the PO River.  Bluegills so big behind my house your pontoon boat would go for a sleigh ride!  Bring a 7 wt.!  Looks like we might have to postpone the Brookie trip Dianna and I had planned for tomorrow.  She bought me a strange here.  I bought her a fishing outfit and she bought me yard work tools.   hmmmmm…… I can’t quite put my finger on it but soething seems amiss. Wayne To Fish is Human…To Release Divine! lotsa snippage here of a great time had by Wayne…… Wayne, congrats on winning MC’s rod, I’m sure you’ll put it to good use. Of course you realize now that Dianna is outfitted and had a taste of ff’ing, your outfit is not complete…send me your snail mail addy and I’ll send you a matched set of a knife and fork to help you eat all that crow and humble pie  :-) …. before long Dianna will be outfishing you (just ask Rich Warren aka Debbies fishin’ pardner)  Still and all you’re a lucky man to have a wife interested in your favorite sport.  Whereabouts do you live in VA?  I get down to the eastern part fairly often (Roanoke/Lynchburg area) and haunt the Maury and James River for smallies. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

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What a trip!  The past 6 days go to, surviving at, and returning from…….THE CLAVE!!!!.

Thanks for your report Wayne. I look forward to other reports. It’s lonely this side of the Pond:-) — Bill http://www.graigroad.demon.co.uk

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Well, The Famous Grouse is almost gone ( I left my MaCallan at Clave Central).  Thanks for listening and sharing. — Wayne (who came away …..Changed!) To Fish is Human…To Release Divine!

um…wayne, you didn’t think those polyleaders would be free, did ya?  i am in possession of your autographed bottle of mac… the benefit of being the last guy to leave. jeff

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Fair trade Jeff!  I was just hopeing it went to a good home!  I’ll share my Mac with you anytime. — Wayne To fish is human….To release Divine! Before you buy.

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strange here.  I bought her a fishing outfit and she bought me yard work tools.   hmmmmm…… I can’t quite put my finger on it but soething seems amiss.

Wayne:I feel your pain…I don’t think we were supposed to understand women, but I don’t know about those farm implements. I thought chainsaws were only useful for horror flicks about some fellow Texans. Thanks for the boots. I will need about 10 days to tie some good flies for the trade. I need to tie more now that there are two fly fishing persons in your family. Since stripers are available at your lake I will include some or Richard Hart’s Ghost Minnows which have been very useful on Lake Whitney. Please send me your snail mail address sometime in the next 10 days or so. It sure was good to meet you and your lovely wife Diana at the clave. I thought she got the best prize of all in the raffle in the Spam Shirt. We need to have more raffle prizes like that next year. Big Dale

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What a trip!  The past 6 days go to, surviving at, and returning from…….THE CLAVE!!!!.  For all those of you who asked, a Clave is fishing camp for reprobates and some nice ladies.  Dianna and I arrived Friday after a pleasant  7 hour trip down from Virginia.  Dinner Friday night with Mark (Guyznflys), Debbie, Richard, Walt and his lovely wife Marie.  I was forced to sample the local brewery’s version of India pale Ale.  You’re right Walt, the horse has kidney trouble!  After plying Walt with a GREAT DEAL of alcohol I was finally able to twist his arm and get him to show my wife some fly rods.  You see, Dianna had shown a little interest in taking up the sport a couple of weeks ago.  I decided to buy her a set-up if she wanted to try it out.  Walt pulled out a nice selection of beginner/newbie rods for Dianna to look over.  Rather than forcing her to take the "best weight for a beginner" I elected to let her choose whatever felt good in her hands.  She tried quite a few and finally made a selection. Hardy Classic 7′ 3 wt. with a (color coordinated) Hardy Golden JHL Ultralight reel filled with a peach colored (color coordinated) WF3F 444 Rocket Taper flyline by Cortland.  What can I say, the woman has excellent taste in fly fishing equipment. Saturday we hung out at Clave Central and I cruised the Watauga out the back door.  Browns all over the place!  Saturday night Debbie gave Dianna casting lessons while Tom Brown created culinary masterpieces in rib roasting. Sunday I fished with Indian Joe on a middle stretch of Wilson’s Creek then up Little Wilson’s Creek.  Sunshine made ‘em spooky but we still caught fish.  The best part was meeting and fishing with IJ.  We worked the stream in grand style and I have never had a finer fishing companion.  When I slipped on a rock and a heavy log came crashing down on my leg as my face smashed into the gravel, I was glad to have someone along who doesn’t panic in and emergency.  Dazed and bleeding, struggling out from under the log, I heard a reassuring voice behind me; "Is your rod OK?"  It didn’t take but a few minutes back to fishing with IJ to forget all about the fall and get back to the enjoyment of the streams!  Monday was spent acquiring a fishing license and Choate wading shoes for Dianna and taking her down to the Watauga in the delayed harvest section to practice.  She did wonderfully and although she didn’t hook a fish she had several rises and a couple of strikes on her flys.  When she actually saw a nice Brown rise slowly, look her fly over, then smash it, she really got excited!  By Monday afternoon a newbie was born and a flyfisherwoman at that! Tuesday morning Dianna went shopping while IJ and I headed to Elk River.  I deeply regret leaving my oversize biscuit in it’s box on the table at Pappy’s!  I could use that biscuit about now!  The Elk started slow but finished strong with IJ and I catching a number of nice native (stocked 80 yrs. ago) Browns and Rainbows.  In the mid-afternoon IJ dropped me off at "the church" on the Watauga so Dianna could pick me up after shopping. During the 45 minutes I waited I made a few casts.  One Brown each 12", 15", and 18"!!  The really neat part was the spin fisherman standing about 100′ away watching me.  He hadn’t caught a thing and didn’t the whole time I was there!  Then on to "The Great Chili Cookout" courtesy of Indian Joe and the Clave Central crew.  A great meal and a great time.  Then the great raffle. I had carefully positioned myself for the drawing and read the flow with all the consummate raffle skills at my command.  Dianna won the fly tying vise and the great TEAM SPAM shirt!  She will not let me trade the vice off ( I don’t tie).  She says she will learn!   Then came the "BIG ONE"!!  Mike Conner’s contribution.  A beautiful 9′ 3 piece 4 wt. rod by MC himself!  I do have one complaint though.  IJ won the reel and line I need to go with it!!  And I thought he was a great guy!  Darn!  Now I hafta buy another reel and line!!  Woe is me.  Just one darn thing after another!!!!  OH!  BTW.  I met JEFFC.  I didn’t kill him or even threaten to kill him.  He is still and asshole but I did win the knotted leaders he brought to the raffle.  I usually use AirFlo Polyleaders but I am going to give these leaders a try. After using them I will drop jeffc a note to tell him how they performed. He will still be an asshole then but I will know how the leaders worked. For all the ROFF guys I met; you’re one helluva bunch of great guys!! Special THANKS to Mike Conner!!!!  (oh Mike, can you send me an autographed sticker to put on the rod?)  I am damn proud to own this rod.  I do not have another 4 wt.  It will make a great nymphing rod to Brookies and for smallmouth on the Rappahannock on those still June days.  Think of it!  A 3 pound smallmouth on a 5X tippet on Mike’s 4 wt. rod on a perfect June day! I’m drooling all over the keyboard.  That is one BEAUTIFUL rod Mike! Thanks to Waldo, Jeff, and all the gang who planned and made this thing possible.  Indian Joe is a friend and fishing buddy who made my days on the streams the stuff dreams are made of.  Friday morning the newest fly fisherperson in the family and I will head to the mountains for a day of Brookie fishing.  They have been waiting for us since before the last ice age.  Their time has come! Well, The Famous Grouse is almost gone ( I left my MaCallan at Clave Central).  Thanks for listening and sharing. — Wayne (who came away …..Changed!) To Fish is Human…To Release Divine!

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He will still be an asshole then but I will know how the leaders worked.

You missed the whole point of the Clave experience, Wayne. I’m embarrassed to think that you won Mike’s rod. –Steve

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Facts is Facts Steve. — Wayne To Fish is Human…To Release Divine!

You missed the whole point of the Clave experience, Wayne. I’m – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – embarrassed to think that you won Mike’s rod. –Steve

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lotsa snippage here of a great time had by Wayne…… Wayne, congrats on winning MC’s rod, I’m sure you’ll put it to good use.  Of course you realize now that Dianna is outfitted and had a taste of ff’ing, your outfit is not complete…send me your snail mail addy and I’ll send you a matched set of a knife and fork to help you eat all that crow and humble pie  :-) …. before long Dianna will be outfishing you (just ask Rich Warren aka Debbies fishin’ pardner)  Still and all you’re a lucky man to have a wife interested in your favorite sport.  Whereabouts do you live in VA?  I get down to the eastern part fairly often (Roanoke/Lynchburg area) and haunt the Maury and James River for smallies. Frank Church Elkhart, IN USAF RETIRED

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Facts is Facts Steve.

Fair enough, Wayne. I was hoping that you’d put the past behind and let bygones be such–or at least let go of the angst–especially since you and Jeff are both guys who I consider friends and good people. I can’t even remember exactly what caused the escalation–but, OK, I’ll stop trying to Rodney King the whole thing Anyway, it was a pleasure meeting you and your wife and–your opinion of a friend of mine notwithstanding–I’ll recant my previous statement and say if it couldn’t be me who won the rod then I’m happy it was you. Next time I’m in the DC area, I’ll let you know. Especially since I never did get a chance to see that 6′ 6-piece gem–and everyone should catch a 4-pound smallmouth on a fly at least once a year. –Steve

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Some of us like raspberry and some of us like vanilla; it’s what makes the world go round Steve!  I was hopeing you would get a look at that little pack rod.  It is extremely unusual and I know you would appreciate the workmanship in bamboo since you craft a beautiful rod in that medium.  You get up here often enough to catch the trout and smallmouth in good seasons. Since Dave Lacourse and Wolfgang let me try their lines on the pack rod and we determined it casts prety well with a 5 wt. I just might sneak that little rascal out and let you catch Brookies in the same stream President Hoover loved to fly fish in. — Wayne To Fish is Human…To Release Divine!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Facts is Facts Steve. Fair enough, Wayne. I was hoping that you’d put the past behind and let bygones be such–or at least let go of the angst–especially since you and Jeff are both guys who I consider friends and good people. I can’t even remember exactly what caused the escalation–but, OK, I’ll stop trying to Rodney King the whole thing Anyway, it was a pleasure meeting you and your wife and–your opinion of a friend of mine notwithstanding–I’ll recant my previous statement and say if it couldn’t be me who won the rod then I’m happy it was you. Next time I’m in the DC area, I’ll let you know. Especially since I never did get a chance to see that 6′ 6-piece gem–and everyone should catch a 4-pound smallmouth on a fly at least once a year. –Steve

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Question:

I want to take up fishing as a hobby, fresh water, lake or river. I live in winston salem n.c. and wonder if anyone can give me info on areas to fish, tips on suppliers of equipment in information for a complete beginner. thanks.

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I want to take up fishing as a hobby, fresh water, lake or river. I live in winston salem n.c. and wonder if anyone can give me info on areas to fish, tips on suppliers of equipment in information for a complete beginner. thanks.

Check out our website at http://blueridgegraphics.com The mountains in NC, especially Ashe Co. and Alleghany Co. are great places to fly fish. If you come to our site above, and look on our links page you will find Ashe Chamber and Alleghany Chambers pages. I believe a couple of fish outfitters are listed there. If not e-mail me and I’ll give you more info. Donna

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Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone recommend sources of "formulas" for tying leaders. I purchase a Maxima "kit" from Cabela’s which was advertised to contain "instructions" but was told by their Customer sevice rep that the mfg. does not supply such instructions. I have an old Orvis formula chart an article from Fly Fisherman which covers a few George Harvey formulas but would like to find something more extensive. Ideas? Tight Lines Ted Miller Can anyone recommend sources of "formulas" for tying leaders. I purchase a Maxima "kit" from Cabela’s which was advertised to contain "instructions" but was told by their Customer sevice rep that the mfg. does not supply such instructions. I have an old Orvis formula chart an article from Fly Fisherman which covers a few George Harvey formulas but would like to find something more extensive. Ideas? Tight Lines Ted Miller

Ted: For what it’s worth, I’ve been using George Harvey formula leaders for many years, mostly in the east but on many western rivers as well, and have found these leaders to be entirely satisfactory.  Of course, on stream I end up making all sorts of adjustments, depending on what I’m fishing and what the water is like, so I’m not sure what "formula" I would have at any given time.  The Harvey formulas are good starting points, however. Mark Faulkner

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Hi, One of my favorites, especially for Atlantic Salmon. 55 % Butt (heavy section)(mostly of 1 peice, can be 2) 25% Tapered Sections ( 4 short decending weights) 20% tippet (1 section) This is an easy formula to remember – 100" leader, and easy to work up or down in proportion For example 55" – 30 lb,   25" ( approx – 6" each) – 25lb, 20lb,15lb, 12lb,   20" – 8 lb. Works for me. Dennis Grant Atlantic FLy Fishing School Brookfield, NS

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Might also look at http://www.flyshop.com/Tactics/01-97Leaders/index.html for more information.

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Can anyone recommend sources of "formulas" for tying leaders. I purchase a Maxima "kit" from Cabela’s which was advertised to contain "instructions" but was told by their Customer sevice rep that the mfg. does not supply such instructions. I have an old Orvis formula chart an article from Fly Fisherman which covers a few George Harvey formulas but would like to find something more extensive. Ideas? Tight Lines Ted Miller

I noticed that some of those pocket version books such us "Guide of knots for leaders" have a lot of info that can be useful.   They are laminated so you could have them with you when you are fishing.  I am pretty sure you could get them in your local fishing store.   Arek.

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Ted; I bought the Maxima Kit from Cabela’s three years ago and it did come with a table of tapers. Can’t imagine why they arn’t putting it in the package now. I am providing several typical taper formulas in this posting and if you want others I will follow up based on any description of use that you provide. Enjoy! Regards, Ken Table ! Maxima Chameleon Leader size to Hook Size Size    Test    Dia     Hook 6x      2lb.    .oo5    18-24 5x      3lb.    .006    14-20 4x      4lb.    .007    10-16 3x      5lb.    .008    6-12 2x      6lb.    .009    2-10 1x      8lb.    .010    2/0-6 01x     10lb.   .012    4/0-4 02x     12lb.   .013    6/0-2 Join sections with blood knot Table 2 Maxima 60/20/20 Tapered Leader Formulas 5-7 Weight Lines 10′ Leader Test            Dia             Length 25              .020                    40" 20              .017                    27" 15              .015    (4")       (5")       6" 12 (02x)                .013    (4")       (5")       6" 10 (01x)                .012    (4")       (5")       6" 8 (1x)          .010    (4")       (5")       6" 6 (2x)          .009    (4")       (5")       24" 4 (4x)          .007    (4")       (24")       3 (5x)          .006    (24") 5-7 Weight Lines 12′ Leader Test            Dia             Length 25              .020                    52" 20              .017                    35" 15              .015            (5")       6" 12 (02x)                .013            (5")       6" 10 (01x)                .012            (5")       6" 8 (1x)          .010            (5")       6" 6 (2x)          .009            (5")       6" 4 (4x)          .007            (5")       (28") 3 (5x)          .006            (28") 8-9 Weight Lines 10′ Leader Test            Dia             Length 30              .022                    44" 25              .020                    27" 20              .017    (5")       (6")       8"" 15              .015    (5")       (6")       8" 12 (02x)                .013    (5")       (6")       8" 10 (01x)                .012    (5")       (6")       24" 8 (1x)          .010    (5")       (24") 6 (2x)          .009    (24") 8-9 Weight Lines 12′ Leader Test            Dia             Length 30              .022                    52" 25              .020                    35" 20              .017            (6")       7"" 15              .015            (6")       7" 12 (02x)                .013            (6")       7" 10 (01x)                .012            (6")       7" 8 (1x)          .010            (6")       28" 6 (2x)          .009            (28") – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone recommend sources of "formulas" for tying leaders. I purchase a Maxima "kit" from Cabela’s which was advertised to contain "instructions" but was told by their Customer sevice rep that the mfg. does not supply such instructions. I have an old Orvis formula chart an article from Fly Fisherman which covers a few George Harvey formulas but would like to find something more extensive. Ideas? Tight Lines Ted Miller

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Question:

I am interested in your experiences with a Bahamian Bonefish Lodge.  I am considering a trip to the Bahamas for bonefish and would like to know what all they included, how the guide service was, what did the guide provide, how were the accommodations, how was the food, but most of all, how was the fishing?

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The most interesting lodge I have fished is Exuma.  Lots of nice wadeable flats.  Some of them you can wade barefoot.  Food is good.  Accomodations good.  Guides are excellent.  Take your own gear , including flies.  Every guide I fished with wanted McVey’s Gotchas.  D(you fish with different guides every day at Exuma and a different flat every day.) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am interested in your experiences with a Bahamian Bonefish Lodge.  I am considering a trip to the Bahamas for bonefish and would like to know what all they included, how the guide service was, what did the guide provide, how were the accommodations, how was the food, but most of all, how was the fishing?

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My wife and I just got back from Kemps Bay, So. Andros Island … landed and released 26 bones on fly tackle in 3 days of fishing…made all arrangements through South Fishing in Islamorada. If interested call Alex @ 1-800-333-3347. The name of the camp was the Royal Palm & Bonefish Bay Club. The plan included airfare, lodging, meals, and guides. We fished with two guides…one was outstanding, the other very good. Accommodations are rustic, but in our opinion it was a truly enjoyable trip. Hope this helps. Bob Elliott, Rochester

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Question:

I’m brand new to flyfishing and was wondering if getting involved in a club was the best way to get started.  I live in the "Thumb" of Michigan. Any comments would be helpful.  Thank you.  Jeff.

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I’m brand new to flyfishing and was wondering if getting involved in a club was the best way to get started.  I live in the "Thumb" of Michigan.

Club membership is the best way for beginners.  There are probably locals in your state of both Trout Unlimited and the Federation of Fly Fishermen. Your quickest line would be to ask at a specialist FF store as near as possible to either your home or your likely fishing region.  There is a famous store and lodge run by "Rusty" Gates on the Ausable at Grayling, another at Traverse City etc.:  browse this newsgroup for phone numbers. — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

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I’m brand new to flyfishing and was wondering if getting involved in a club was the best way to get started.  I live in the "Thumb" of Michigan. Any comments would be helpful.  Thank you.  Jeff.

Hi Jeff, A club is a great way to learn from friends – either casting, fishing, and tying. To locate a club near you call the Federation of Fly Fishers at 800-618-0808 and ask about a FFF club near you. A local fly shop is also another source for this information. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Question:

        I just moved to boulder, to start school, and do not know any places to fish.   I have been fly fishing for 3 years, on the east coast, and would like to start out here.   I would be greatful if anyone could e-mail with info on good spots and what to fish with.   The closer to campus the better.   While I do not have a car, I could probably find a ride, if the stream was good enough. Ryan Crow

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The Thompson has plenty of great holes. Also if you have the means, drive up to Tucker Ranch (all the way up Baseline), and hike down the path on your right. There is a great little stream I’ve pulled many from. Jonathan Claxton

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Question:

I turned back to the 444SL after I tried othrs. The LASER line is very nice to cast and floats very high (makes line pickup easier), but: all this only for a very short time (I used it for only one season!). The hard coating is worn out very fast and you have to replace the line. The Wulf Triangel taper is very nice to fish, too. I used it in the 3/4 and 5/6 weight. Rollcasting is much fun and, especially with the 3/4, presentation of drys to very shy trout is terrific. The disadvantage, especially for the 3/4, is that it is very hard to transport heavier or more wind resistant flies. I now returned to the 444SL which can do the job much better: Very long casts are much easier with the 444SL, rollcasting nearly as good as with the TT, but if the situation requires it, I can also tie on a heavy stremer or a heavy weigthed nymph with a few split shots with still comfortable casting.                             Thomas

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If anyone needs a Cortland Fly line or has any questions about

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I used a 444SL for many trouble-free years.  In fact, I wore it out — the first line that I ever killed.  I’ve been thinking about giving the Lazer line a try, but have been playing around with Lee Wulf’s Triangle taper, as well as a few others.  Give me your pros and cons on the 444SL and the Lazer Line, with regard to durability, floatability.  Thanks.

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I used a 444SL for many trouble-free years.  In fact, I wore it out — the first line that I ever killed.  I’ve been thinking about giving the Lazer line a try, but have been playing around with Lee Wulf’s Triangle taper, as well as a few others.  Give me your pros and cons on the 444SL and the Lazer Line, with regard to durability, floatability.  Thanks.

According to the folks at FEATHER-CRAFT Fly Fishing in St. Louis, 444SL is designed specifically for fast-action rods, is stiffer than most lines and is considered 1/4 weight higher than it’s rating.  The Lazer line are supposed to be best for light action rods because it loads the rod quickly for short casts.  

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Question:

I still have not heard much information about fishing in the Herndon, Leesburg area for fly fisherman. Please E-mail me with info.

I lived in Virginia 12 years ago and used to fish a creek near Leesburg called Goose Creek.  No trout, but plenty of smallmouth and various other pan fish.  I can’t remember the road I used to] access the creek from.  I used to turn left off of Route 7 (west) prior to Leesburg.  You should be able to find it on a good map.

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I don’t know what you would consider to be "in your area", but, it’s hard to beat fly fishing in the Potomac for smallmouth bass.  Also, the Rapidan is an excellent early season spot for native brook trout.

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Abner) writes: I still have not heard much about …..

I imagine you have read Howell Raines book Fly Fishing Thru a Mid-life crisis   He talks about the area S. & W. of Washington, DC in Virginia. I thought it was an excellent book for all fly-fishers  Al

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Question:

This group is so full of guys with boats and sonar. Has anybody thought of creating a new group rec.outdoors.guy.boat.sonar? Seriously, aren’t there any flyfishers out there?  Has the world gone completely to sonar … -john

Just a few weeks ago the complaint was ‘are there only flyfishers here?’ or did you know that Its starting to warm up here- may hit 70F soon. flyfishers are starting to crawlout of hibernation (read tying den)– stoneflies are hatching– ITS TIME! BTW, I always use a fishfinder when I go flyfishing— polaroids + hares’ ear nymph in case the water is a little turbid or the pool is too deep to see in. mike

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I don’t know how everybody else felt about the two a day fillet knife postings, but I really don’t like reading ads, so after I asked the guy to stop twice, and he didn’t, I complained to Berkeley and they inactivated his account. I hope he didn’t have any important projects due 8-). Usenet is not for commercial posting. University equipment is generally not for commercial posting. Now, back to your regularly scheduled fishing news. This group is so full of guys with boats and sonar. Has anybody thought of creating a new group rec.outdoors.guy.boat.sonar? Seriously, aren’t there any flyfishers out there?  Has the world gone completely to sonar driving thick thumbed baitcasting bass and tuna fishers? Well, I guess the guys with boats and sonar pretty much don’t have anything to do all winter until iceout. We flyfishers just tie and post and tie and post. The weather sucks here too. -john — John Danskin                    | (609) 258-5386                  | Gradual student (609) 258-1771 fax              | Graphics systems

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I don’t know how everybody else felt about the two a day fillet knife postings, but I really don’t like reading ads, so after I asked the guy to stop twice, and he didn’t, I complained to Berkeley and they inactivated his account. I hope he didn’t have any important projects due 8-). Usenet is not for commercial posting. University equipment is generally not for commercial posting. Now, back to your regularly scheduled fishing news. This group is so full of guys with boats and sonar. Has anybody thought of creating a new group rec.outdoors.guy.boat.sonar? Seriously, aren’t there any flyfishers out there?  Has the world gone completely to sonar driving thick thumbed baitcasting bass and tuna fishers? Well, I guess the guys with boats and sonar pretty much don’t have anything to do all winter until iceout. We flyfishers just tie and post and tie and post.

        John,         Are you quite done giving your self-righteous decree of what should be posted in this group? My belief is that this group is for any subject-matter related to fishing. Fillet knives are definitely a part of fishing! How was this any different from the posts you see where some person either has a trolling motor for sale or is looking to buy one?! Who died and made you God?!         Larry

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  I am planning to go up to Norfolk(?) lake in N. Arkansas (east of Bull Shoals lake) on the last week of April. Any hints on what to expect up there? The lady told me everything will be biting, crappie, bass, striper, sandies, everything. Are there `bows up there? I will be renting a decent bassboat so I will be mobile. I wanted to see what ya’ll say, so I will not be unprepared when I go. I have the standard bass gear, plus UL, spinning gear, and my flyrod. The little woman will be with me, so at least one person will outfish me d8^)!                                           thanks,                                                    Daty

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I don’t know how everybody else felt about the two a day fillet knife postings, but I really don’t like reading ads, so after I asked the guy to stop twice, and he didn’t, I complained to Berkeley and they inactivated his account. I hope he didn’t have any important projects due 8-). Usenet is not for commercial posting. University equipment is generally not for commercial posting. Now, back to your regularly scheduled fishing news. This group is so full of guys with boats and sonar. Has anybody thought of creating a new group rec.outdoors.guy.boat.sonar? Seriously, aren’t there any flyfishers out there?  Has the world gone completely to sonar driving thick thumbed baitcasting bass and tuna fishers? Well, I guess the guys with boats and sonar pretty much don’t have anything to do all winter until iceout. We flyfishers just tie and post and tie and post. The weather sucks here too. -john — John Danskin                        | (609) 258-5386                      | Gradual student (609) 258-1771 fax              | Graphics systems

Actually, many of us bass fishers do so because it is the only game in town.  I was an avid fly fisher until I was forced to live in San Antonio (yes, I know there are stocked trout near here, but it is hard to elbow your way in between all the corn fishers).  I have fly fished for bass (and tied my own bugs).  But are bass fishers and their depthfinders really that different from trout fishers and their 300+ dollar fly rods? If you want to be a gadgeteer, you can do it anywhere. Just a thought Noel Montgomery p.s.:  There is no ice out in SA TX, we catch fish year round.

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|  My belief is that this group is for any | subject-matter related to fishing. Fillet knives are definitely a part of | fishing! How was this any different from the posts you see where some person | either has a trolling motor for sale or is looking to buy one?! Who died and | made you God?! |   Larry Actually Larry, there is quite a bit of difference between a person who wants to get rid of his personal trolling motor (or wants to buy a used one) and a guy who is running a business for profit and is advertising on the net.  On the other hand, if something offends me, I just don’t read it.  BTW everyone it is REALLY Spring in the Southland,  I fished Fri,Sat,Sun and got a pretty good sunburn through some SPF-25 lotion!                         -Pat. p.s. nobody had to die, I’ve always been God.   p.p.s.  I haven’t gotten many replies, anyone have a used light saltwater         conventional reel for sale?  (noncommercial responses         only please :}  ).

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