Question:

this is a huge area for a country where it rains constantly, and which is therefore awash with good fishing rivers and lakes.   There are pages and pages to be written about each of the counties you’re mentioning. I strongly suggest three books (or two, depending on whether you prefer to fish rivers or loughs/lakes.) http://www.moytura.com/irishbooks/sport1.htm for Peter O’Reilley’s definitive books on loughs and rivers. Also "A Man May Fish", written maybe in the sixties , for an account of fishing in Ireland that will make you want to spend a lot longer than a day doing it. You can start looking for secon hand copies on bookfinder.com at http://www.bookfinder.com/search/?st=sl&ac=sl&qi=WQ0EJCyJRTTzZZcAfRgT1i9 WQ0eGIYgT:122:227 Best Wishes Lazarus – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello- My husband and I are planning a trip to Ireland in the latter part of September this year.  We will mostly be visiting with family while there, but will have about 1 week to explore after that.  We are mostly interested in Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon areas.  We might have just a day to fish. Does anyone have experience fishing in this area?  Good streams/rivers to check out?  Any suggestions of a good outfitter to rent us the necessary gear for a day? Thanks in advance for any input! Betsy in Santa Fe

Response:

Thank you to Dave and Lazarus for your replies.  Yes, I will check out those books, Lazarus.  Dave, thanks for the Google suggestion.  I had actually already done that.  I guess I wasn’t clear enough in my original post, but I was hoping for some personal accounts or experiences to be shared.  Just a differnet approach for us to consider before we leave… Thanks again! Betsy

Response:

Hello- My husband and I are planning a trip to Ireland in the latter part of September this year.  We will mostly be visiting with family while there, but will have about 1 week to explore after that.  We are mostly interested in Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon areas.  We might have just a day to fish. Does anyone have experience fishing in this area?  Good streams/rivers to check out?  Any suggestions of a good outfitter to rent us the necessary gear for a day? Thanks in advance for any input! Betsy in Santa Fe

Response:

Bwalker writes: My husband and I are planning a trip to Ireland in the latter part of September this year.  We will mostly be visiting with family while there, but will have about 1 week to explore after that.  We are mostly interested in Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon areas.  We might have just a day to fish. Does anyone have experience fishing in this area?  Good streams/rivers to check out?  Any suggestions of a good outfitter to rent us the necessary gear for a day? Thanks in advance for any input! Betsy in Santa Fe

Go to www.google.com (or any of the other search engines), and type in "fly fishing" + "Ireland".  You will get lots of hits.  The info is at your fingertips. hth Dave

Response:

Question:

Bob, If either of you go, or any Roffian for that matter, please try to find these guys and let me know: Acheson Technologies, LLC 6337 South Jamaica court Englewood, CO 80111 (888) 302-0067 They allegedly manufacture the RodRack, which transports fully assembled fly rods on the exterior of vehicles. Rod locks inside unit, unit locks to vehicle. El Paso Bob with another fly fishing specific question – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   Is the Denver FF show coming up on Jan. 6 & 7th a worthwhile event? Any Roffers going?  Normally, I wouldn’t drive that far but I have a daughter (and sis-in law) in Denver and there’s always shopping for the wife.  (Might have to drop by Charlie’s and pick up some more books.) Snoop

Response:

Thanks for the heads-up on this show. Where is it being held? I haven’t seen any ads for it.

Response:

There is a web site with a complete list of things going on at www.flyfishingshow.com Laurence

Response:

  Is the Denver FF show coming up on Jan. 6 & 7th a worthwhile event? Any Roffers going?  Normally, I wouldn’t drive that far but I have a daughter (and sis-in law) in Denver and there’s always shopping for the wife.  (Might have to drop by Charlie’s and pick up some more books.) Snoop — —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

I picked up a brochure, and it looks like it will be a pretty good show. This is the first year for a show of this format in Denver, but it looks pretty good, with world renowned tyers, book signings, and all sorts of demos. I’ll even put you up for a night or two, if you’re so inclined.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –   Is the Denver FF show coming up on Jan. 6 & 7th a worthwhile event? Any Roffers going?  Normally, I wouldn’t drive that far but I have a daughter (and sis-in law) in Denver and there’s always shopping for the wife.  (Might have to drop by Charlie’s and pick up some more books.) Snoop — —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

I picked up a brochure, and it looks like it will be a pretty good show. This is the first year for a show of this format in Denver, but it looks pretty good, with world renowned tyers, book signings, and all sorts of demos. I’ll even put you up for a night or two, if you’re so inclined.

Charlie,   Thanks for your kind offer.  Got beer????   I’m heading to the Bighorn tomorrow for a couple of days.  I’ll see what kind of shape I’m in when I return & decide whether or not to make the trip.  I would like to visit you and Pat for one day if I come down.  I suppose I should visit my daughter too, but she doesn’t fish:)   Are you going to the show? Snoop — —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

  Is the Denver FF show coming up on Jan. 6 & 7th a worthwhile event? Any Roffers going?  Normally, I wouldn’t drive that far but I have a daughter (and sis-in law) in Denver and there’s always shopping for the wife.  (Might have to drop by Charlie’s and pick up some more books.) Snoop

Charlie Framinski show is on the 6th & 7th of January.  Chuck says the turn out will be at least 4 – 5,000 people, which is a lot of fly fishermen.  Doug Swisher and I will be attending.  I will have a rather straight forward, plain booth with some of our general products along with bamboo fly rods anyone is welcome to inspect and see for themselves what is is we are doing today. Shopping in general at the Mart is a rather complete place from what I understand.  I think the show is at the intersection of I-25 & I-70, which is the MouseTrap area of Denver.  There is a Quality Inn on the location, I understand.  Its been a while since I’ve been in that area but I did live in Colorado for many years.   I will be landing at Jefferson County Airport and will just rent a car. This show is 100% FLY FISHING, so the turn out won’t be in the hundreds of thousands as they are with all purpose sports shows Snoop.  Yet, I’m going to attend and may be in Denver on or before Friday because I think the booths set up on Friday, is my guess.  I just got the packet but haven’t had time to read it yet. I think it may well be your while to attend, if only to try some fly casting and getting some bargains on all sorts of fly fishing stuff. These shows are usually good places to find fly tying materials and for getting good ideas. Hope to see you there.  Drop by and say hello.  Hope this helps others who are thinking of attending Chucks All Fly Fishing Sports Show in Denver this coming weekend. — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

I understand the Denver Fly Fishing Show is next weekend. There is a remote possibility I will drive over from Kansas. Any of the Colorado poster’s going to try and attend? Wayne

Response:

I understand the Denver Fly Fishing Show is next weekend. There is a remote possibility I will drive over from Kansas. Any of the Colorado poster’s going to try and attend?

      Ain’t gonna "try" to attend, I will absolutely be there. Last years’ show was the first time they’ve done the all-flyfishing format, and it was a great cure for cabin fever. This year’s show promises to be even better.       How shall we try to spot each other? Pink bridesmaid’s hats?

Response:

i am planning on dropping by…haven’t been before… thought i might check it out… richard / colorado

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I understand the Denver Fly Fishing Show is next weekend. There is a remote possibility I will drive over from Kansas. Any of the Colorado poster’s going to try and attend? Wayne

Response:

      How shall we try to spot each other? Pink bridesmaid’s hats?

I’ll be coming from Kansas, look for the Ruby Slippers As I said, it is a REMOTE possibility, due to driving the daughter to the Wichita airport on Friday and some other such stuff. If it looks like I can make it, I’ll send you an email late Friday night or early Sat morning before I leave with my pager and cell number so we can meet up. That is, if you were going to be there in the afternoon. Wayne

Response:

"Wayne Knight" As I said, it is a REMOTE possibility, due to driving the daughter to the Wichita airport on Friday and some other such stuff. If it looks like I can make it, I’ll send you an email late Friday night or early Sat morning before I leave with my pager and cell number so we can meet up. That is, if you were going to be there in the afternoon.

     Okee doke. Don’t be offended if I don’t answer anything prior to Fri evening, we’re heading over to Aspen in a couple of hours and won’t be back until late Fri.

Response:

I understand the Denver Fly Fishing Show is next weekend. There is a remote possibility I will drive over from Kansas. Any of the Colorado poster’s going to try and attend?

I’ll meet you in the Cathy Beck autograph line at noon. — The Halfordian Golfer

Response:

Wayne Knight: I understand the Denver Fly Fishing Show is next weekend. There is a remote possibility I will drive over from Kansas. Any of the Colorado poster’s going to try and attend?

Charlie Wilson:       How shall we try to spot each other? Pink bridesmaid’s hats?

I should be easy to find. I’ll be wearing a flannel shirt and a ball cap. (Seriously though, it shouldn’t be too hard to come up with something more or less unique. Bolo ties would do the trick. After all, it’s either that or else those giant foam rubber cowboy hats.) — Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyoming

Response:

Question:

Conchs – native Key Westers – used to swear there was nothing better than lime juice. Tried it once but it made me feel like a margarita, so I didn’t have it on long enough to say if it really worked. Uhhh, …so where was the salt?

Often comes right out of your skin when the skeeter weather is right, just add lime juice…

Response:

Conchs – native Key Westers – used to swear there was nothing better than lime juice. Tried it once but it made me feel like a margarita, so I didn’t have it on long enough to say if it really worked.

Uhhh, …so where was the salt?

Response:

Naahhh, wasn’t us….  Those Tenderfoot scouts never could catch anything sitting out in the woods (except for a few mosquitos)….. When I was both in the Boy Scouts and later while a scout leader we used to go on Snipe hunts at most every campout. So you’re the one who drove these cute, cuddlies to the brink of extinction. Shame on you and your Boy Scout Troop. Digger, AKA Grumps (old and crusty) All errors; spilling, grimatical, ore tieping intenshunal.

– On my retirement adventure from the rolling hills of the Southern Tier in New York State…..    Traveling in my 1999 Dodge 2500 6-spd diesel, 1999 Sunnybrook 27RKFS 5th-wheel

Response:

When I was both in the Boy Scouts and later while a scout leader we used to go on Snipe hunts at most every campout.

So you’re the one who drove these cute, cuddlies to the brink of extinction. Shame on you and your Boy Scout Troop. Digger, AKA Grumps (old and crusty) All errors; spilling, grimatical, ore tieping intenshunal.

Response:

I believe they are planning on using student volunteers to conduct an official Snipe Hunt and Count over spring break,

That’s another Guvmint project doomed to failure. While students on  Spring break are prolific hunters they will NOT be looking for snipe. You can bet on that. Digger, AKA Grumps (old and crusty) All errors; spilling, grimatical, ore tieping intenshunal.

Response:

Yes. Noseeums are bad news, and unlike mosquitos, nothing less than 50% DEET will deter them for long – at least not in my case. I break out the 95% DEET when I find myself in noseeum country.

NoSeeUms do seem to be stymied by thicker oils on the skin, like Skin So Soft (which I have observed to be useless against skeeters).  One article I read recommended using cooking oil; it would prevent the NoSeeUms from biting thru it and entangle the skeeters — problem is, you look like a walking fly strip!

Response:

Like a lot of other Gummint projects, the intro of the Snipe did not go as planned.  There are still plenty of skeeters and NoSeeUms in evidence and no signs of the Snipe.  I believe they are planning on using student volunteers to conduct an official Snipe Hunt and Count over spring break, but that might turn out to be an unsubstantiated rumor.  Some suspect that the Snipe may have fallen victim to the poachers at the Chokoloskee end of the ENP now that the square grouper fishing has been taken over by the commercial organizations and these folks still have to feed their families. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I thought since they introduced the Snipe to the Everglades they have been able to control the overwhelming No-seeum population. Correct me if I’m wrong. AL My one and only trip to the Everglades acquainted me with "no-seeums"  - a very tiny black fly that bites.  We stayed at a government campsite somewhere in the Everglades and woke up during the night with my "sunburn" really itching.  Turned on the lights and found those black bugs everywhere. They were so small that screens were no deterrent.  They could just fly right through them.  Fired up the generator, turned on the A/C and it sucked them all into the filters.  Then we could sleep through the night. Dick Lucas

Response:

Correct me if I’m wrong.

Consider yourself corrected. BTW the snipe has been hunted into near extinction and is now on the endagered list. So don’t get caught hunting them at night. Digger, AKA Grumps (old and crusty) All errors; spilling, grimatical, ore tieping intenshunal.

Response:

When I was both in the Boy Scouts and later while a scout leader we used to go on Snipe hunts at most every campout.  The Tenderfoot scout on his first campout would get the "honor" of catching the Snipe.  After it was good and dark out, he would be placed out in the woods with a big sack.  We told him that we would beat the brush to drive the Snipes toward him.   Then we went back to camp to have another cup of coffee for the next hour or so.  After that we would sneak up on him and make loud growling sounds as we sneaked up on him.  After that, we brought him back into camp to the great laughter of all the troop. Correct me if I’m wrong. Consider yourself corrected. BTW the snipe has been hunted into near extinction and is now on the endagered list. So don’t get caught hunting them at night. Digger, AKA Grumps (old and crusty) All errors; spilling, grimatical, ore tieping intenshunal.

– On my retirement adventure from the rolling hills of the Southern Tier in New York State…..    Traveling in my 1999 Dodge 2500 6-spd diesel, 1999 Sunnybrook 27RKFS 5th-wheel

Response:

Digger writes: BTW the snipe has been hunted into near extinction and is now on the endagered list. So don’t get caught hunting them at night.

Is it ok then to hunt them during the day?  Tougher I know, but maybe more sporting. Mark – who wonders if pate’ of Snail Darter would be good snipe bait.

Response:

Check with the Rangers about the critters; lots of different foot trails, depending on water levels and there are canoes/kayaks for rent. Bug populations depend on the severity of the previous winter; bring plenty of DEET and some long, light-colored clothing; Navy Blue is the most favorite color for skeeters!  Cold showers at Flamingo; also a coin laundry tucked away in the motel there.  No hookups. If you have the time and have never done it before, take one of the airboat rides from the many places along US41. The places flying a striped flag reminiscent of Germany’s flag are Miccosukee-owned. Also, if you have the time, a trip on the people ferry from Biscayne NP visitor’s center out to Elliott Key would prolly be interesting, as would a glass-bottom boat ride to the reef in John Pennekamp SP. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Were planning on taking a trip to the Everglades National Park between March 12th through March 23rd. We’ve never been down there. We would like to see as much wildlife as possible for picture taking without becoming gator bait. We have reservations for Flamingo Park, and Long Pine Key Campground. Question are: 1. Does anyone have suggestions as to what’s the best place to visit for wildlife photography? 2. Are there better campgrounds then the one’s in the park? 3. How bad are the insects? 4. What can I expect as to access to the trails, crowds, etc? Really appreciate the input.

Response:

Bug populations depend on the severity of the previous winter; bring plenty of DEET and some long,

We happened to be there (Flamingo) after a dry period, no rain for two weeks, and nice breeze. Very enjoyable but the rangers had a slide show which showed a white wall that was completely covered wtith bugs. We lucked out and enjoyed a three day stay. Used the pool at the lodge everyday (GREAT). Hope you luck out as we did. I agree try John pennecamp SP on Key Largo (we found ALL FL SPs to be very nice) Digger, AKA Grumps (old and crusty) All errors; spilling, grimatical, ore tieping intenshunal.

Response:

3. How bad are the insects?

My one and only trip to the Everglades acquainted me with "no-seeums"  - a very tiny black fly that bites.  We stayed at a government campsite somewhere in the Everglades and woke up during the night with my "sunburn" really itching.  Turned on the lights and found those black bugs everywhere. They were so small that screens were no deterrent.  They could just fly right through them.  Fired up the generator, turned on the A/C and it sucked them all into the filters.  Then we could sleep through the night. Dick Lucas

Response:

I thought since they introduced the Snipe to the Everglades they have been able to control the overwhelming No-seeum population. Correct me if I’m wrong. AL – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My one and only trip to the Everglades acquainted me with "no-seeums"  - a very tiny black fly that bites.  We stayed at a government campsite somewhere in the Everglades and woke up during the night with my "sunburn" really itching.  Turned on the lights and found those black bugs everywhere. They were so small that screens were no deterrent.  They could just fly right through them.  Fired up the generator, turned on the A/C and it sucked them all into the filters.  Then we could sleep through the night. Dick Lucas

Response:

Were planning on taking a trip to the Everglades National Park between March 12th through March 23rd. We’ve never been down there. We would like to see as much wildlife as possible for picture taking without becoming gator bait. We have reservations for Flamingo Park, and Long Pine Key Campground. Question are: 1. Does anyone have suggestions as to what’s the best place to visit for wildlife photography?

We camped for a week in the Everglades around Christmas time about 15 years ago. I am sure that much has changed, but I was amazed at the photo opportunities along the Anhinga Trail. It’s (or it was) a black-top and board-walk trail that leads along side of, and into, a swampy area. A tremendous variety of birds congregated there. I have pix of birds that I would have had to spend weeks in the "wild" to take. Alligators were abundant and easy to shoot. Sometimes they were only 10 to 15 feet away! By 9:00am there were dozens of photographers lined up along the trail. The primary sound was shutters being released. But, conditions may be different in March. My most memorable pix were taken early in the morning while the Anhingas were still sleeping in the "trees" and they were silhouetted against the light of the early morning sun as it cast long shadows across the swampy water. But the pix that cost me the most was one I have of a group of Roseate Spoonbills that were perched in a tree. Not having insect repellent with me in the truck (I had left if behind in the trailer), I mounted my camera on my tripod, set all of the camera controls while still in the truck. I quickly darted out of the truck and snapped two pix before I was unable to stand the attacking mosquitoes any longer. I have no idea how much blood I donated in the brief time (2 minutes) that I was outside of the truck, but it was sutstantial. 2. Are there better campgrounds then the one’s in the park?

We only stayed in the two campgrounds you mentioned. I remember Flamingo Park as being rather boring: a huge open expanse of trailer pads while Long Pine Key was relaxing with its numerous tall pines. Besides, Long Pine Key is close to the Anhinga Trail, which I visited each day for hours. You can find more information at:  http://www.nps.gov/ever/home.htm Cheers, Harry

Response:

If you’re a tent camper, you get a tent with NoSeeUm netting, but of course that cuts down the ventilation a little.  DEET isn’t effective, but light clothing is, as are sheets for sleeping. I stayed at JPennekamp SP in Dec one year and was infested with NoSeeUms thru the TT window/vent screens.  They lived about three days after I left the area. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 3. How bad are the insects? My one and only trip to the Everglades acquainted me with "no-seeums"  - a very tiny black fly that bites.  We stayed at a government campsite somewhere in the Everglades and woke up during the night with my "sunburn" really itching.  Turned on the lights and found those black bugs everywhere. They were so small that screens were no deterrent.  They could just fly right through them.  Fired up the generator, turned on the A/C and it sucked them all into the filters.  Then we could sleep through the night. Dick Lucas

Response:

Were planning on taking a trip to the Everglades National Park between March 12th through March 23rd. We’ve never been down there. We would like to see as much wildlife as possible for picture taking without becoming gator bait. We have reservations for Flamingo Park, and Long Pine Key Campground. Question are: 1. Does anyone have suggestions as to what’s the best place to visit for wildlife photography? 2. Are there better campgrounds then the one’s in the park? 3. How bad are the insects? 4. What can I expect as to access to the trails, crowds, etc? Really appreciate the input.

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _______  We are now concentrating on making (we hope) one of the most complete fly tying programs in the world given enough time.  I think this project will take at least three years. I am going to ask each and every one of you to submit four flies and the way you tie them.  We hope as traditional as possible. … Mr. George Gehrke President We here at the ET2 Flyfishing Emporium and Shaolin Monk Reeducation Center respectfully request that everyone everywhere send to us one dozen flies to be entered into the KCUSFC (Ken Could Use Some Flies Contest). Please submit your dozen from one or more of the following patterns and sizes, (the more times you enter the better your chance of winning). Yellow Humpy    14, 16, 18 Royal Wulff     12, 14, 16 Parachute Adams 14, 16, 18 The winner will be announced in this forum, and will receive INSTANT IMMORTALITY, WORLD WIDE ACCLAIM, and A SIX PACK OF ST. LOUIS BUDWEISER ! All entries will be judged by a panel of drunken ROFFians and the vast majority of the flies will be fed to ravenous rhododendrons.

Even so, it’s a much better deal than that offered by VI#1…

Response:

Gotta be in big mouth cans.                     Frank Reid The winner will be announced in this forum, and will receive INSTANT IMMORTALITY, WORLD WIDE ACCLAIM, and A SIX PACK OF ST. LOUIS BUDWEISER !

I had planned on providing longnecks but will accomodate career military contestants without prejudice. Send those flies, Francis, and take your chances. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Gotta be in big mouth cans.                     Frank Reid – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The winner will be announced in this forum, and will receive INSTANT IMMORTALITY, WORLD WIDE ACCLAIM, and A SIX PACK OF ST. LOUIS BUDWEISER !

Response:

Gotta be in big mouth cans.                     Frank Reid The winner will be announced in this forum, and will receive INSTANT IMMORTALITY, WORLD WIDE ACCLAIM, and A SIX PACK OF ST. LOUIS BUDWEISER !

— Mr.G http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

Response:

_______  We are now concentrating on making (we hope) one of the most complete fly tying programs in the world given enough time.  I think this project will take at least three years. I am going to ask each and every one of you to submit four flies and the way you tie them.  We hope as traditional as possible.  A complete tying instructions column would be appreciated, a picture of yourselves at the vise or astream, and a little history or bio would be nice.   Send the flies or very good photographs via e-mail.  Focus is important and a common light blue, tan, or black background that would best set off your flies will serve you and us well when ever possible. Please tie one dry, one wet fly, one nymph and one streamer if possible.   The site will be set up in those four sections as DRY WET NYMPHS STREAMERS as soon as we get enough delineation. I look forward to hearing from all as your support is much appreciated. We are and the world are also interested in seeing your fly tying signature.  This is why sometimes we will list two or three ties of the same fly such as the Adams. I will do each and every one a good job regarding the page/s about you and your flies. Thank you all in advance.  I look forward hearing from you. Mr. George Gehrke President http://www.gink.com/fly/fly_of_world.html —

Response:

_______  We are now concentrating on making (we hope) one of the most complete fly tying programs in the world given enough time.  I think this project will take at least three years. I am going to ask each and every one of you to submit four flies and the way you tie them.  We hope as traditional as possible. … Mr. George Gehrke President

We here at the ET2 Flyfishing Emporium and Shaolin Monk Reeducation Center respectfully request that everyone everywhere send to us one dozen flies to be entered into the KCUSFC (Ken Could Use Some Flies Contest). Please submit your dozen from one or more of the following patterns and sizes, (the more times you enter the better your chance of winning). Yellow Humpy    14, 16, 18 Royal Wulff     12, 14, 16 Parachute Adams 14, 16, 18 The winner will be announced in this forum, and will receive INSTANT IMMORTALITY, WORLD WIDE ACCLAIM, and A SIX PACK OF ST. LOUIS BUDWEISER ! All entries will be judged by a panel of drunken ROFFians and the vast majority of the flies will be fed to ravenous rhododendrons. — Mr. Ken Fortenberry Sommelier

Response:

Question:

 For those that use Outlook Express, I need your help.  I want to accomplish two things. 1) change my name that appear on the NG to "fly-fishing-midget." 2) have another of my hotmail addresses appear on the NG instead of my primary address. I am now using My Deja to accomplish this.  However, I rather use Outlook Express unless I’m searching something. I think everyone will know why I want this changed due to be all the hoopla going on lately.  I hope to eliminate the hate mail that my wife sees coming to my primary address.  I can read it at one of my other addresses without upsetting my wife.  She has nothing to do with my actions on this NG or other e-correspondence.   Vern U Before you buy.

Response:

Vern, try this: For 1) Select the News Group Select TOOLS Select Accounts (Hi-Lite Account Desired) Select Properties Select Name and enter the name you want to use Select OK For 2) Try: Same as above except select E-Mail Address instead of Name, Both Name and email address can be entered at one time if you want. Personally, I like Vern better and the hate mail will die quickly, good luck Jim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For those that use Outlook Express, I need your help.  I want to accomplish two things. 1) change my name that appear on the NG to "fly-fishing-midget." 2) have another of my hotmail addresses appear on the NG instead of my primary address. I am now using My Deja to accomplish this.  However, I rather use Outlook Express unless I’m searching something. I think everyone will know why I want this changed due to be all the hoopla going on lately.  I hope to eliminate the hate mail that my wife sees coming to my primary address.  I can read it at one of my other addresses without upsetting my wife.  She has nothing to do with my actions on this NG or other e-correspondence.  Vern U Before you buy.

Response:

  I hope to eliminate the hate mail that my wife sees coming to my primary address.  I can read it at one of my other  Vern U

Ohhhhhhhh Vern baby….I just hate it when youstop touching me in that special way you have…….I just hate when you have to leave so early in

Response:

  I hope to eliminate the hate mail that my wife sees coming to my primary address.  I can read it at one of my other  Vern U Ohhhhhhhh Vern baby….I just hate it when youstop touching me in that special way you have…….I just hate when you have to leave so early in

Hooooboy… I think ASADI slipped in the stream and hit his head!!! Someone get a DOC and a cold beer! Tihs man is hurt! {shudder} — Michael Era

Question:

Use a Griffitt’s Gnat The best advise I have is do not try to fish a midge hatch with a match in size. It is generally futile. The hook size is impractical for decent hookups and, think about it, the trout are going to pick out your tiny fly from all the mass that have hatched? Good lucK. I suggest you fish a Griffitt’s Gnat instead. Unlike most aquatic insects, the midges are hatching from CLUSTERS of eggs in the meniscus . . . little gooy egg masses. The Griffitts imitates the egg clusters. Thats what the fish are going for because it gives them more food per gulp. The Griffitts is also big enough to carry a decent hook, and to tie on with normal vision. End of advice Dave

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I’m in Colorado and been fly fishing for 15 yrs. Let me say this, we tend to fish the same nymph and vary the color and size…different colored rib and collar. My tip, when fishing in the early A.M. start very small (22-24) on your dropper and swim it just off the bottom. Add only enough weight to keep it low and clean. The colder it is on the river the more slight the touch. Success is tight line to the hook and set on the tiny movement of your indicator.

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: Hello: : This message is pretty similar to one I posted a while ago, but if anyone : has any new or additional comments they’d like to post, I would be most : interested. : Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges. Aren’t we all? : Would be interested in opinions relative to to whether : midges are most productive in; : -very early spring : -heat of the summer : -fall Midges are an all year round possibility in Aus. especially in lakes. : Also, large or small flies [generally] best for each of these three seasons? Rarely less than size 18, things like black spiders, griffiths gnat, work for me.  I’d also use some more imitative pupa but prefer the simpler flies (the fish seem to as well).   Tied on a light hook the spiders (also do well as ants ) will float low in the film, a heavier hook gets them down an inch or two.     The Gnat I use mainly, when there are  mating swarms over the water, although it fishes well as a single bug too. : Thanks, : Bob Good Luck. Steve

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We have some really good midge fishing in Nevada on the East Walker River near Bridgeport, which can be fished year round.  Some of our other rivers could have good midge fishiing, but they are closed during the winter. My opinion is that midge fishing is good only when ther are not many large flies around.  Therefore midge fishiing  is usually good in the winter when the mayflies and caddis’s have disappeared, and before the stoneflies and BWO’s come out.  However, if they are the dominant fly at other times, fish will feed on them.  I carry my midge box year round, but don’t use it much in the warmer months. In regards to size, match the natural as closely as possible.  You will probably be to large!  Dry flies should be tried during the warmest part of the day.  My favorite rig is a size18-22 parachute adams as a point fly and a black midge emerger or brassie as a dropper. Good luck

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: This message is pretty similar to one I posted a while ago, but if anyone has any new or additional comments they’d like to post, I would be most interested. Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges. Would be interested in opinions relative to to whether midges are most productive in; -very early spring -heat of the summer -fall Also, large or small flies [generally] best for each of these three seasons? Thanks, Bob

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Hello: This message is pretty similar to one I posted a while ago, but if anyone has any new or additional comments they’d like to post, I would be most interested. Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges. Would be interested in opinions relative to to whether midges are most productive in; -very early spring -heat of the summer -fall Also, large or small flies [generally] best for each of these three seasons? Thanks, Bob

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midges are most productive in; -very early spring -heat of the summer -fall

Actually Bob, I have had some of my best days with midges during warm spells in January and February.  The best times will naturally correspond to the hatching regimes if the midges in the streams that you fish. Once the mayfly and caddis hatches are done in the summer, fish will turn there attention to terrestrials and midges, so for a general answer, late summer, fall, winter, and early spring would probably be the best times. The size of flies you use will be keyed to the insect activity in the area that you fish. You really need to put your time in on the streams, and ask questions of the local anglers. You will be surprised how quickly you will learn, and how your successes will increase. Best of luck. George Adams

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Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges.

I hate it when I’m put on a hook and thrown in a river.  This midge’ is staying on dry ground.  :) Vern

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Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges. Would be interested in opinions relative to to whether midges are most productive in; -very early spring -heat of the summer -fall

There is no straight forward answer to that. On many tailwaters the fish feed heavily on midges year round. In the free stone streams here in Colorado and much of the West, the only hatches still occurring in late Fall, Winter, and early Spring are midges. The surface feeding fish are generally feeding on the emerging insect and sparse flies that float in the film are usually best. Many midges are extremely tiny and although it’s best to match the size, I find that when going below a size 22 hook, hookups are a problem.  If your presentation is good enough, you can get away with using a larger fly. A dead drift presentation is a must. A long light tippet and a downstream presentation helps. When the midges are hatching heavily enough to bring the fish to the surface, you have alot of natural flies to compete with and your presentation must be right on the money because the fish won’t move for your fly.   Midge fishing can be fun but it is very fussy fishing. You are usually targeting a single fish trying to get the perfect presentation and take. Sometimes you’ll get a fish on your first cast but often MANY casts must be made before you have success. Midges will bring up good fish to the surface especially in the Winter when there is no other insect activity. I’ve caught some of my better fish on midges. Also, large or small flies [generally] best for each of these three seasons?

There are lots of exceptions to this but as a general rule, Spring has the hatches of the bigger insects.  As the seasons progress, the insects get smaller in size. Willi

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I have seen midges mostly in early spring and this time of year. Looking in my notebook they seem to like waters around 55*. The lake I fish in the spring has some very large midges (#14) that the trout go bonkers for. When the Mayflies and Caddis start hatching they aren’t as common. Then again after the water temps drop I start to see them again albeit a bit smaller (#18). sf

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: This message is pretty similar to one I posted a while ago, but if anyone has any new or additional comments they’d like to post, I would be most interested. Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges. Would be interested in opinions relative to to whether midges are most productive in; -very early spring -heat of the summer -fall Also, large or small flies [generally] best for each of these three seasons? Thanks, Bob

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: This message is pretty similar to one I posted a while ago, but if anyone has any new or additional comments they’d like to post, I would be most interested. Trying to learn a bit more (still) about fishing Midges. Would be interested in opinions relative to to whether midges are most productive in; -very early spring -heat of the summer -fall Also, large or small flies [generally] best for each of these three seasons? Thanks, Bob

All others posting a reply assume you are interested in fishing rivers.   On many lakes and reservoirs midge fishing is the best game going from Nov-April, assuming you can find open water.  The lake midges can be very large by river standards, sizes 12-16.  4x tippets will work with the jumbo imitations and are probably necessary since the lakes will give up a lot of 20+ inch fish.  This will be a very lazy style of fishing, seldom to visible fish.  I look for a shoal area in which fish are occasionally seen taking midges on the surface, and just fish the water with a floating line and a very SLOW hand-twist retrieve.

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Question:

The Fly Fisherman is a true FF shop they can accomidate you for fresh and saltwater, they also have a store in Titusville (you can FF for redfish in the indian river and mosquito lagoon area). Dominic Pruitt Cary, NC (Relatives in Orlando area)

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Dear Joseph                 There are two excellent fishing shops Jumbo Sports and The Fly Fisherman, they are both in the yellow pages. I visitedthem while i was on holiday. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have received a very interesting job offer in the Orlando area (zip 32750)… but I’m trying to check some things out before I commit myself. I know the fishing is good down there… but what’s the flt-fishing presence like? Any good shops in the area? Any tying supplies for freshwater? I may be headed down for an interview shortly… any place I should scope out while I’m there? Thanks! — Joe Ellis         o/~ The Synthetic Filker o/~ |   TesserAct Studios  ()X  Darwin (;        Now on the Web at      |  Cincinnati, OH 45240  //~~~LL~~~~LL~  http://shell.idt.net/~ellis69 | New Dimensions In Filk!   If you race a train to the crossing and the train gets there first,      the train wins. If you get there first, the train STILL wins.

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I have received a very interesting job offer in the Orlando area (zip 32750)… but I’m trying to check some things out before I commit myself. I know the fishing is good down there… but what’s the flt-fishing presence like? Any good shops in the area? Any tying supplies for freshwater? I may be headed down for an interview shortly… any place I should scope out while I’m there? Thanks! — Joe Ellis         o/~ The Synthetic Filker o/~ |   TesserAct Studios  ()X  Darwin (;        Now on the Web at      |  Cincinnati, OH 45240  //~~~LL~~~~LL~  http://shell.idt.net/~ellis69 | New Dimensions In Filk!   If you race a train to the crossing and the train gets there first,      the train wins. If you get there first, the train STILL wins.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have received a very interesting job offer in the Orlando area (zip 32750)… but I’m trying to check some things out before I commit myself. I know the fishing is good down there… but what’s the flt-fishing presence like? Any good shops in the area? Any tying supplies for freshwater? I may be headed down for an interview shortly… any place I should scope out while I’m there? Thanks! — Joe Ellis         o/~ The Synthetic Filker o/~ |   TesserAct Studios  ()X  Darwin (;        Now on the Web at      |  Cincinnati, OH 45240  //~~~LL~~~~LL~  http://shell.idt.net/~ellis69 | New Dimensions In Filk!   If you race a train to the crossing and the train gets there first,      the train wins. If you get there first, the train STILL wins.

       One thing you’ll learn is that Orlado is just one area, there are many cities in the area and all are back to back so to speak. Check the phone book and don’t be put off by the city names. There is an Orvis shop in Winter Park, 2 Bitters shops, all kinds of mall shops, KMart sells fly fishing poppers, flys and some low level gear as does WallMart. Fern Park, Altamonte Springs, Winter Park are some of the towns heading north on either I-4 or 17/92 all really close together. There are numerous bait and tackle shops all over the place and Titusville, Cape Canaveral is also close. as to bait and tackle "The big Bass hole is about 6 blocks from my house in Sanford. It’s on lake Monrow (the St.John’s runs through it.) What you’ll need is an 8wt at least for bass and small saltwater possibly a 3wt for bream and a short 5wt for general streamside among trees etc. There are so many shops and sporting goods stores that I can’t begin to tell you about all of them.                                                             John Popp                                                          in Sanford Fl.

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Question:

Next month there will be a fly fishing/tying seminar, January 9 & 10 at Boise State University.  Big names like Jack Dennis, Mike Lawson, and Gary LaFontaine are the headliners.  Two day seminar; each day different, and you can go for one or both days.  Cost is $25 for one day, $45 for both.  A free video with admission.  Raffles, other good stuff. Good way to spend that extra Christmas cash you will find in your stocking. Better yet, hint to your spouse or email Santa Claus that a seminar pass would be a great Christmas gift. The local fishing clubs, like the Ted Trueblood Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Boise Valley Fly Fishermen, Fly Fishers of Idaho etc. are working with the Idaho Angler to put this on.  Proceeds will go to a special account set up for the purpose of making some appropriate investments at Mormon Reservoir, the new trophy trout reservoir south of Fairfield, Idaho. For more information, or to sign up call the Idaho Angler at:  800-787-9957,

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The seminar is actually on January 10 and 11, Saturday & Sunday.

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Question:

As with anything having to do with this sport, get the best you can afford. Metz, Spencer, and a half-dozen other growers often sell half capes for about the same price as the next grade down. Unless you are tying up to professional prodution a good #2 grade half will last through several seasons. Everyone resents the initial outlay of $$$ for a good cape, but the payoff is you don’t purchase them very often. Cabela’s and other supply houses also sell decent genetic necks that are quite useful, if limited in size and color.

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how bout finding some fishin’ buddies to split some necks with….that how I started out. some times stores will sell you split necks, if you take classes from them…they can always use the other half in class or for production tying. i agree with the other respondent, however, buy the best you can..you’ll be disappointed with the #3’s for drys size 14 and smaller. happy tying,….and DON"T GIVE UP!! there aren’t enuff of us out there! #:)#  Larry Medina

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Hoffman Super Saddle. Tons of real long feathers 10 down to 18 or so. Can tie two or three flies per feather.

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I need some new hackle, I’m getting better at tieing, and the hackle from the kit sucks.  I would like to hear some opinions on which Hackle to buy.   I am leaning towards Metz grade #3 in Grizzly from Orvis (29 bucks), anyone know of a better deal let me know.  Thanks. Scott

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I thought that a grade three hackle would be better for tying wet flies than dry, but I just read an article that said that they rate the hackle by the count of usable feathers, the main size, and length. I thought that a grade 3 hackle would be softer hackle than a grade 1 or 2 is this true or are there just more usable feathers on a grade 1. Can you tye as good a dry with a grade 3 hackle as you could with grade 1.  I am simply a begginer I dont know grade 3 hackles are softer by expierience I just thought that was how it was THANKS! The factors that determine a hackle grade are numerous.  A neck or saddle are graded on the number of usable hackles, length of hackle, color, webbiness, stem diameter and uniformity of barbule lengtht. Now the problem arises when you compare hackles from two different companies.  A #2 Hoffman  may be better than a #1Metz metz.  Will a #3 be "softer"?  Well yes it may have a little, or a lot, more web depending on the company.  A #3 Hoffman will tie a good dry fly, but some of the other companies it may not.   The best thing to do is to inspect it carefully before you buy it.  Generally it can be said that you will get what you pay for. About 7 years ago I bought my first Hoffman saddle and now I am hooked.  I have currently 5 Hoffman saddles and 3 necks.  They are the only ones I use for my dries.  I know they are kinda expensive and I have a tight budget, but they are worth it.  There is nothing more frustrating to me than trying to tie a good fly with a shitty feather.   Good Luck, Marty

Hi Marty, I agree. Hoffman is only company that has saddle hackle that is small and stiff for trout dries. In the old days, we always used rooster saddles for wets and rooster necks for dries. Henry Hoffman changed that. Metz saddles are better for wet flies as they don’t seem to be stiff enough for dries. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY

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  <big snip   Then Metz started to become available and Henry started to bring over some of his first "super grizzly".  This is one area where materials have only gotten better.

  Amen to that. Several months ago a guy came into the local shop carrying grampa’s tying kit. Grampa must have been a serious tyer, the kit had a lot of really nice stuff (jungle cock cape, etc), the tools and thread were all top quality from that era. The dry fly hackles were a different story altogether; the individual feathers were all tapered, the stems were thick (compared to modern hackle), and none of the feathers would tie smaller than about sz 10. Charlie

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writes: Amen to that. Several months ago a guy came into the local shop carrying grampa’s tying kit. Grampa must have been a serious tyer, the kit had a lot of really nice stuff (jungle cock cape, etc), the tools and thread were all top quality from that era. The dry fly hackles were a different story altogether; the individual feathers were all tapered, the stems were thick (compared to modern hackle), and none of the feathers would tie smaller than about sz 10.

I’m not yet as old as grandpa, but a size 16 would be the smallest you could find on a neck, they would be less than an inch long, and you would need to use at 3 or 4 feathers to tie one fly.  Thought I’d died and gone to heaven when I got my first Metz #2 brown neck.  I still have it but there are no feathers left smaller than #10.                                                         Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

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writes:    Hi! I thought that a grade three hackle would be better for tying wet flies than dry, but I just read an article that said that they rate the hackle by the count of usable feathers, the main size, and length. I thought that a grade 3 hackle would be softer hackle than a grade 1 or 2 is this true or are there just more usable feathers on a grade 1. Can you tye as good a dry with a grade 3 hackle as you could with grade 1.  I am simply a begginer I dont know grade 3 hackles are softer by expierience I just thought that was how it was THANKS!

Hi Dolph, As others have said here, none of the growers grade on the same standards.  But within a particular brand, there is a big difference between a #1 and a #3. Historically (this is all subject to change), the #1 necks had higher feather counts, smaller sizes, less webbing, longer length feathers (more useable feather), more flexible stems,  rounder stems, and denser barb counts on the feather (more barbs per inch).  Usually the biggest difference between 1 and 2’s is the quantity of small sizes – more of the 20 through 24 sizes on the #1’s.  Often the #1’s don’t have useable size 10 or 12 feathers because the stems are too thick.  #3 necks often have more webbing than 1’s or 2’s but not always.  Most often the biggest difference between 2’s and 3’s is that the stems on the 3’s are stiffer, and sometimes oblong instead of round.  This makes them very tough to wind. The grading system is hardly perfect and you can often look through a batch of #2’s and find some that are as good as the #1’s and #’3s that are as good as 2’s.   Nothing compares to the Hoffman’s necks.  Their #2’s are comparable to just about anyone elses #1’s.  The saddles make great dry fly tying feathers but primarily have only 2 sizes on them.  The necks have a wide assortment of sizes.  Haven’t seen any saddles that will compare with the Hoffman’s for dry flys. For wet flies I still use hen neck feathers.  They are shorter and have more rounded tips.  These are always webby and fold easily for that swept back look on wets.  Used to be able to find them easily and they were cheap.  Haven’t seen many in recent years.  Get them if you can find them, they are a far better choice for wet flies than rooster necks. We are spoiled today with the necks available.  I remember when indian capes were all that you could get.  I would take a trip over to Tigard, OR once in a while just to paw through Kaufmann’s capes.  Lance and Randall would go over to India each year, select their own stock, and bring it back.  Then Metz started to become available and Henry started to bring over some of his first "super grizzly".  This is one area where materials have only gotten better.                          Good Tying,                               Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

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When you use TWO on a dry fly, you need to take a size 16 (for example) feather from the right side of a cape and the left side.   Mr. G.

Good post.   I’m curious about your left/right suggestion.  I never make any effort to use feathers from opposite sides of the cape when double wrapping. Could you elaborate more on why this is useful? Regards, Joe.  

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        Hi! I thought that a grade three hackle would be better for tying wet flies than dry, but I just read an article that said that they rate the hackle by the count of usable feathers, the main size, and length. I thought that a grade 3 hackle would be softer hackle than a grade 1 or 2 is this true or are there just more usable feathers on a grade 1. Can you tye as good a dry with a grade 3 hackle as you could with grade 1.  I am simply a begginer I dont know grade 3 hackles are softer by expierience I just thought that was how it was THANKS!                                         Dolph

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This is a multi-part message in MIME format. Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit DEAR BUZZARD:  You happen to ask a question that I must rise too.  It is an excellent question.  May I add a few thoughts to get this discussion going? The observation is keen that different hackle manufacturers are indeed grading their hackles differently.  In fact, I doubt the lot of them ever got together and came up with a standard that rates necks from different companies to the same matching-game.  Everyone should give this some thought. Frankly Buzzard, you’re going to have to become a good judge of hackle/necks yourself.  There are certain things you must always pay attention too and I’m not about to cover them all here and now.  But each tier has certain patterns that require different advantages from feathers.  They can be softness, hardness, webbing, lack of webbing, short feathers, long feathers, narrow and wide, the combinations are endless and all feathers have a use in fly tying in one fly or another. Remembe this.  Never throw them away. Besides colors (any color) A feather for DRY FLY FISHING is different in desired aspects than hen feathers for wet flies, nymphs, streamers, etc. BUT!  A hen feather doesn’t necessarily mean it is a feather of less worth. I (personally) won’t settle for a number two neck when for a few dollars more I will be happier with a number one (1)!  The difference between a two and a one can be miles apart even though the numbers are next to each other.  Numbers mean different values to different people.  In grading feathers (Cock necks) throw the number system out the window. Waste it.  It means nothing between manufacturers, BUT with a specific manufacturer such as Hoffman necks, it can be a very reliable numbering system because of one factor.  Hoffman Products (now raised in Grand Junction Colorado) are CONSISTANT and TIGHT in quality.  Whereas; Metz Necks vary with the wind and each chicken season.  Quality always suffers when production increases beyond supervisory abilities.  Hate to say it, but its true. A DRY FLY FEATHER must have certain factors for each tier.  Length, evenly wide hackles, very little webbing, barbel stiffness, sharp tips (not curled on the ends, etc.) flexiable (not brittle) stems, maturity, (in look and feel)  and when you inspect a neck, make sure the skin isn’t brittle so it will crack when bent a little.  (Use some gink on the skin back to keep it from drying out.  Excellent for this, incidently.  And please everyone, don’t slam me for offering a friendly fact) So, basically, today . . .  because of neck retail prices, the trend is splitting a Hoffman neck.  When you buy a split, you are getting only right handed or left  handed bends in feathers.  When you use TWO on a dry fly, you need to take a size 16 (for example) feather from the right side of a cape and the left side.  So, what I’m saying, is . . . if at all possible, always buy the complete neck if its financially comfortable or possible. I’ll let everyone take it from here. Mr. G.         Hi! I thought that a grade three hackle would be better for tying wet flies than dry, but I just read an article that said that they rate the hackle by the count of usable feathers, the main size, and length. I thought that a grade 3 hackle would be softer hackle than a grade 1 or 2 is this true or are there just more usable feathers on a grade 1. Can you tye as good a dry with a grade 3 hackle as you could with grade 1.  I am simply a begginer I dont know grade 3 hackles are softer by expierience I just thought that was how it was THANKS!                                         Dolph

Content-Type: text/x-vcard; charset=us-ascii; name="vcard.vcf" Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit Content-Description: Card for Mr. G. Content-Disposition: attachment; filename="vcard.vcf" begin:          vcard fn:             Mr. G. n:              ;Mr. G. org:            Gehrke’s Fly Fishing Products title:          President note:           Do something, even if it’s right x-mozilla-cpt:  ;0 x-mozilla-html: FALSE end:            vcard

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Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone ever tried this? It occurred to me while watching Charlie West’s fly fishing show on the Outdoor Life Channel. They had such good photos of aquatic insects or their aquatic forms, I wondered how they were obtained. It occurred to me that it might be possible to collect a few nymphs from a local stream and "grow" them in a home aquarium. I could even design an aquarium in a devil’s food, cake-pan shape to allow some sort of stream flow imitation in case they need moving water. Any ideas? In a regular aquarium, the normal inhabitants wouldn’t even have to be evicted if I were to use caddis nymphs. No tetra in it’s right mind would attack something that size that is also covered in gravel Maybe I could thin out the fish population in the tank with dragonfly larvae. Fun to watch and I would have a biological model for fly tying! This could become an interesting thread! Thanks, David Buschhorn

Hi David-    We’ve been raising aquatic insects for over 15 years. Let me know exactly what kind of bugs you want to grow and hatch and I’m sure we can help you out.    -Ralph —

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Has anyone ever tried this?

. . . Thanks, David Buschhorn

David, I know of at least two reference books on hatches in which the authors report having raised mayflies, stoneflies, and caddis in an aquarium. In both "Hatches II" by Caucci & Nastasi and "Western Hatches" by Hafele & Hughes the authors make several references to raising and observing mayflies in their home aquariums. I think there may be some pointers included on how to actually raise aquatic insects in an aquarium yourself, so I’d highly recommend these two sources as a starting point. Regards, Fred

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David. Growing your own nymphs is a piece of cake. Clean water, a sandy or silt bottom to the tank, aeration, and some plant life from where you collected your nymphs are really all that is required. Your nymphs will feed off the plants or detritus, and you’ll even see the nymphs grazing from any algae that grows on the side of the tank. I’ve reared many species here in England. The principals would be the same where you are. Best of all is the ability to watch nymphs hatch just inches away from your face. So too is the feature of watching the sub imago change to imago. Caddisfly larvae and dragonfly larvae will eat anything else in your tank so be careful which species you stock with. If you are into photography you’ll also get great shots of the emerging nymphs and the various stages of adult fly life. You might find also that this side of your hobby will be as enjoyable as actually fishing. Good Luck. Dave. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Has anyone ever tried this? It occurred to me while watching Charlie West’s fly fishing show on the Outdoor Life Channel. They had such good photos of aquatic insects or their aquatic forms, I wondered how they were obtained. It occurred to me that it might be possible to collect a few nymphs from a local stream and "grow" them in a home aquarium. I could even design an aquarium in a devil’s food, cake-pan shape to allow some sort of stream flow imitation in case they need moving water. Any ideas? In a regular aquarium, the normal inhabitants wouldn’t even have to be evicted if I were to use caddis nymphs. No tetra in it’s right mind would attack something that size that is also covered in gravel Maybe I could thin out the fish population in the tank with dragonfly larvae. Fun to watch and I would have a biological model for fly tying! This could become an interesting thread! Thanks, David Buschhorn

– dave tait

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone ever tried this? It occurred to me while watching Charlie West’s fly fishing show on the Outdoor Life Channel. They had such good photos of aquatic insects or their aquatic forms, I wondered how they were obtained. It occurred to me that it might be possible to collect a few nymphs from a local stream and "grow" them in a home aquarium. I could even design an aquarium in a devil’s food, cake-pan shape to allow some sort of stream flow imitation in case they need moving water. Any ideas? In a regular aquarium, the normal inhabitants wouldn’t even have to be evicted if I were to use caddis nymphs. No tetra in it’s right mind would attack something that size that is also covered in gravel Maybe I could thin out the fish population in the tank with dragonfly larvae. Fun to watch and I would have a biological model for fly tying! This could become an interesting thread! Thanks, David Buschhorn

David, Grow enough of them and you can create your own hatches! Seriously, Swisher and Richard’s book:  "Selective Trout" goes into detail on this subject.  It’s a great book. Jack

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Has anyone ever tried this? It occurred to me while watching Charlie West’s fly fishing show on the Outdoor Life Channel.

<snip It occurred to me that it might be possible to collect a few nymphs from a local stream and "grow" them in a home aquarium. <snip Any ideas?

<snip  Fun to watch and I would have a biological model for This could become an interesting thread! Thanks, David Buschhorn

Greetings, David, yes, this might get interesting.  I can’t help you much, however, I would suggest you cross-post this to the news groups:                                    sci.bio.fisheries or possibly the group:             sci. aquaria                 Someone in these groups should have some valuable information for you in this regard.  _Good luck on your project, and keep us informed on its progress!_ Cheers, and tight lines -Mark

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Has anyone ever tried this? It occurred to me while watching Charlie West’s fly fishing show on the Outdoor Life Channel. They had such good photos of aquatic insects or their aquatic forms, I wondered how they were obtained. It occurred to me that it might be possible to collect a few nymphs from a local stream and "grow" them in a home aquarium. I could even design an aquarium in a devil’s food, cake-pan shape to allow some sort of stream flow imitation in case they need moving water. Any ideas? In a regular aquarium, the normal inhabitants wouldn’t even have to be evicted if I were to use caddis nymphs. No tetra in it’s right mind would attack something that size that is also covered in gravel Maybe I could thin out the fish population in the tank with dragonfly larvae. Fun to watch and I would have a biological model for fly tying! This could become an interesting thread! Thanks, David Buschhorn

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