Question:

  Michael, – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –          First off, where exacty are you presently residing.       Clagary as you know,is a booming-better than the 70’s.With one of the lowest unemployment numbers in the Nation.       The weather is finally warming up.The Bow River has been opened all year round and this weekend all of the smaller rivers and creeks around Southern Alberta open up for the season–Can wait!!       I’ve got all my gear ready and taking the Day off work to hit the Elbow at about 8am.The rivers arerunning a little high due to the spring run off but ha,that fishing. Take Care For Now. PAUL Before you buy.

Hi Paul, I am now living in South Jersey. I work in Philadelphia. I used to live in the NW of Calgary in Around the Country Hills Area. Before I came to South Jersey I only knew how to spin fish. I learned how to cast and fish in Atco Lake on Route 30. Just small blue gills and pumpkin seeds but it was a hoot! My first fly rod was a Diawa and it was an eight weight! If you can imagine chasing blue gill on an eight weight! Still it was a blast. As I became instantly infatuated with Fly Fishing I began researching it and that was when I stumbed onto r.o.f.f. last year. I was quite active posting but lifes "other" demands get in the way. I still fish like crazy but I haven’t been "speaking" in the ng too much. Just now I am starting to beak off again. I was watching fishing Canada last night and they were doing a segment on the old man river up by Crows Nest Pass. That looked FANTASTIC! Just like I remembered it. I used to fish a spot on the Bow that is by a golf course just out of town (south west I think) and we used to get some BIG rainbows out of there! Next time I visit I warned my wife that she would not be seeing a lot of me! I plan on calling on all of the people I have been corresponding with to get some time out with them and also to do some of my own exploring! I’d like to get over to Sam Livingston’s fish hatchery and work that stretch after the spill way! Also along a small bend close to south Costco! Thanks for the interest! — Michael Era

Question:

Absolutely Abe!!!!!!! — ~~~~ The RodMaker (a.k.a) The Shadow……hehehe!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – RodMaker wrote!! AJH, Nothing wrong with fiberglass rods. Used in the correct applications. I agree with you RodMaker!! I use my fiberglass rods to fish my crankbaits with and a few other lures too!!

Response:

For cranks, go to a 7 ft. or 7 1/2 ft. stick not only will you gain some in casting distance; but you will like the "feel" more .A med/heavy is more that adequate for this purpose. — ~~~~ The RodMaker (a.k.a) The Shadow……hehehe!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Rodmaker;I just bought a nice 6 1/2 ft  fiberglass rod made by Abu Garcia, I thought I needed it for crankbaits but after using it a few times I set it aside with the other "had to have" stuff. I read too much about fishing.. Fiberglass has it’s place and had it’s time. It rests next to a Fenwick HMG 6 1/2 ft spinning rod that I "had to have"

Response:

Oh-oh! a whole new can of worms! — ~~~~ The RodMaker (a.k.a) The Shadow……hehehe!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Nothing wrong with a Shakespeare Wonder reel and a Mitchell 300 either. Lets hear it from the "I still use a Mitchell 300" guys.

Response:

Huh The description of the repair is detailed with pictures. I have all the confidence that the repair would be adequate. I think the man is trying to repair a fibre glass rod of sentimental value. I f he repairs it himself and does an adequate job it will add to it’s sentimental value. It would for me. Al – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Al, stick to things that you are learned about! C. Boyd Phiffer’s advice is antiquated at best. If you have a real question, ask — ~~~~ The RodMaker (a.k.a) The Shadow……hehehe! There is a book entitled Tackle Care and Repair Handbook (Field & Stream) by C. Boyd Pfeiffer. It is a paperback book. Chapter 6 is on rod repair and there are a few pages about re installing (taping then wrapping) your missing guide. You may be able to get the book at the library. For others the book covers repair and maintenance of rod,reel,lures and accessories. Al

Response:

The Epoxymoron somehow seems to fit, Mike!But what is a "respectable" Rodmaker? Anyone care to know my take? — ~~~~ The RodMaker (a.k.a) The Shadow……hehehe!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – "Respectable rodmaker"…..? There’s two words you don’t see next to each other too often. Hmmm, alliteration and an oxymoron rolled into one…or would that be an epoxymoron.  LOL  Just kidding RodMaker. — "Mad-Mikey"  At first, fishing and hunting were just hobbies,              then they became addictions taking all my time              and money. If they ever find a cure for these              sicknesses—   I’m refusing treatment. Before you buy.

Response:

HMG 6 1/2 ft spinning rod that I "had to have" And what would you want for that HMG?

– "Mad-Mikey"  At first, fishing and hunting were just hobbies,              then they became addictions taking all my time              and money. If they ever find a cure for these              sicknesses—   I’m refusing treatment. Before you buy.

Response:

Al, stick to things that you are learned about! C. Boyd Phiffer’s advice is antiquated at best. If you have a real question, ask — ~~~~ The RodMaker (a.k.a) The Shadow……hehehe!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – There is a book entitled Tackle Care and Repair Handbook (Field & Stream) by C. Boyd Pfeiffer. It is a paperback book. Chapter 6 is on rod repair and there are a few pages about re installing (taping then wrapping) your missing guide. You may be able to get the book at the library. For others the book covers repair and maintenance of rod,reel,lures and accessories. Al

Response:

There is a book entitled Tackle Care and Repair Handbook (Field & Stream) by C. Boyd Pfeiffer. It is a paperback book. Chapter 6 is on rod repair and there are a few pages about re installing (taping then wrapping) your missing guide. You may be able to get the book at the library. For others the book covers repair and maintenance of rod,reel,lures and accessories. Al

Response:

RodMaker wrote!! AJH, Nothing wrong with fiberglass rods. Used in the correct applications. I agree with you RodMaker!! I use my fiberglass rods to fish my crankbaits with and a few other lures too!!

Response:

Rodmaker;I just bought a nice 6 1/2 ft  fiberglass rod made by Abu Garcia, I thought I needed it for crankbaits but after using it a few times I set it aside with the other "had to have" stuff. I read too much about fishing.. Fiberglass has it’s place and had it’s time. It rests next to a Fenwick HMG 6 1/2 ft spinning rod that I "had to have"

Response:

Nothing wrong with a Shakespeare Wonder reel and a Mitchell 300 either. Lets hear it from the "I still use a Mitchell 300" guys.

Response:

My dad had a ‘51 Kaiser. Was a nice car back then.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Nothing wrong with a Shakespeare Wonder reel and a Mitchell 300 either. Lets hear it from the "I still use a Mitchell 300" guys.

Response:

My dad had a ‘51 Kaiser. Was a nice car back then.

That’s a very questionable position, Bob.  I know, I inherited one from my father-in-law. 3" diameter round push buttons in middle of door panels to open the doors. Doesn’t matter if the lock button is pushed or not. Door pops open when you push the big button. Talk about convenience! Great way to get rid of unwanted relatives. Since the windows were always open anyway (the side windows had a habit of shattering when you hit a decent bump), you just ask ol’ Uncle Dan (who is riding shotgun)to hit the button and roll the window up as you’re taking a hard left. RichZ

Question:

Oh man.  Bears and goats and underwear and snakes and trees and…and….and…jeez!  What kind of people are you??!

Ya ain’t seen nothin’ ’till you’ve seen an ol’ rattler tryin’ to get his fangs loose from LaPlac’s shorts<g. — Charlie…

Response:

ROFFLOL

Rolling Outdoors Fly Fishing Laughing Out Loud??? Regards, Jeff

Response:

(Hilarious stuff snipped) Steve, I sure hope you keep this up, ’cause I find myself wading through all the other stuff just to find your review (I also make certain that I have no comestibles in my mouth that might otherwise coat my monitor). Thanks for the levity. Bob

Response:

we need a new acronym because ROTFLMBO is and understatement after reading this weeks report.

How about  LSHIPM  (Laughing So Hard I Pissed Myself) Though this appropriate thanks to the go potty post. Peter

Response:

ROFFLOL

Monday April 24th Discussion of a cleaner, gentler version of ROFF continues this week

<and cetera

Response:

much good snippeded.. Walt, far beit for me to call into question your sage advise, but on Upper Creek the odds of seeing is pretty fair; however, the odds of being bitten is anyone’s guess!  Caution is emphasized!  In addition to everything else I own, I ,always, carry a snake bite kit. Which leads me to another thought: Are there any good sherpas coming to the Clave! Opie and so are the snakes. i’d like to emphasize that the odds of seeing,

snippage… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – a serpent is extremely remote, the situation does exist so take a little bit more care than usual moving up a stream, especially where you put your hands when climbing. waldo

Response:

C… leaves are coming out… and so are the snakes….

Oh man.  Bears and goats and underwear and snakes and trees and…and….and…jeez!  What kind of people are you??!

Response:

By midweek they’re drinking Metamucil instead of scotch and crashing at 9 o’clock.

But up plenty early to see PJ drag *your* ass out of bed<g. — Charlie…

Response:

By midweek they’re drinking Metamucil instead of scotch and crashing at 9 o’clock. But up plenty early to see PJ drag *your* ass out of bed<g. — Charlie…

which is well worth the price of admission also…. although jeff, mark, and i got some serious fishing done this past week, there’s still plenty left to do. the best moment i had was on a little feeder stream in the wilson watershed… jeff, after much ado, standing in a small waterfall, bow & arrowed a stimulator through a tight gauntlet of rhodo into a small stone faced pool …. he was rewarded with a truly beautiful wild brown of about 10-12 inches and i was rewarded with the satisfaction of  viewing a well done presentation in a damn near impossible scenario. way to go jeffie, you’ve earned your small stream badge one other note of import…. spring is here… leaves are coming out… and so are the snakes. i’d like to emphasize that the odds of seeing, much less being bitten by a serpent is extremely remote, the situation does exist so take a little bit more care than usual moving up a stream, especially where you put your hands when climbing. waldo

Response:

< great stuff snipped With blatant disregard for the feelings of those who won’t be arriving at the clave until later in the week, Tom Brown posts the Clave Kickoff menu, generating a collective outporing of drool not experienced since Greg Pavlov’s last post. …

For future reference, it’s been my observation that it’s best to arrive at a ‘Clave as early as possible. Tom’s Opening Ceremonies feast is one good reason, another is that the geezers are still able to party and socialize a bit early in the week. By midweek they’re drinking Metamucil instead of scotch and crashing at 9 o’clock. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Definitely first class synopsis and commentary Steve.  Hope you will continue the weekly satire.

Response:

Monday April 24th [snip] Meanwhile the Dueling Daves (Tripper and LaCourse) get in an argument about who could wade the best back when they were both healthy enough to actually fish standing up. [snip] And that’s the week that was. Until next time, –Steve

we need a new acronym because ROTFLMBO is and understatement after reading this weeks report.

Response:

Monday April 24th Discussion of a cleaner, gentler version of ROFF continues this week

        oh, hell, man, this was terrific.  but not accurate.  i am the guy in charge of getting the *t-shirt* put together.  my little boy is the designer.  and louie laplac is the hat guy. wayno, always a stickler for the truth.

Response:

oh, hell, man, this was terrific.  but not accurate.  i am the guy in charge of getting the *t-shirt* put together.  my little boy is the designer.  and louie laplac is the hat guy.

Aw, crap. I knew that. My bad. Sorry LaCourse. –Steve

Response:

Aw, crap. I knew that. My bad. Sorry LaCourse.

Here’s a way to help you remember: when you think hat, think head. That leads to head up the ass, which leads to Forty. Since nobody would ever wear a hat designed by Forty, it has to be LaPlac! <g — Charlie…

Response:

Totally freaking hilarious, Steve. You’ve founf your calling. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

Totally freaking hilarious, Steve. You’ve founf your calling.

I agree.  I love reading Steve’s new week review.  :-) — Vern My ROFF page: http://msnhomepages.talkcity.com/ResortRd/v_deloy/ROFFintro.html Before you buy.

Response:

Monday April 24th Discussion of a cleaner, gentler version of ROFF continues this week with topics falling into the following general categories: (1) Newbies are idiots; (2) People who call newbies idiots are idiots (3) People who whine about calling newbies idiots are idiots (4) People who get upset at those who whine about newbies being called idiots are idiots. Meanwhile the Dueling Daves (Tripper and LaCourse) get in an argument about who could wade the best back when they were both healthy enough to actually fish standing up. Vern suggests a new idea for a "telecopying" wading staff that will apparently allow you to send and receive lewd FAXes while fishing instead of having to sit on the cold copy machine at the office. Tuesday April 25th BillyFish exposes fly fishing’s dirty little secret (literally) when he poses the question "how do you go potty when you’re on a float tube in the middle of a lake?" Noted suggestions include: (1) soil yourself and change clothes when you get back to the car–Ken Fortenberry; (2) Wade wet and no one will know–Charlie Choc; (3) use the "Stadium Pal", which consists of three parts: an external catheter worn like a condom, a flexible hose, and a collection bag worn on the inner calf–Frank Reid. Incidentally, the Stadium Pal Web site provides a helpful sizing template you can use to determine what size catheter is the best fit–see http://www.stadiumpal.com/sizer.htm for details. NOTE to Muskie: don’t worry about printing out the template–the 23mm size should give you plenty of room to grow. Wednesday April 26th Political debate of the relative advantages of stiff versus limp resurfaces, with Democrats advocating a stiff leader and Republicans calling for a limp leader, for obvious reasons. The Roadless Initiative issue (aka the Ted Turner plan) is discussed, with several interesting facts being brought to the attention of the group: (1) 98 percent of the earth’s surface is covered in asphalt; (2) animals that have been seen by man are not wild–by definition–so therefore there is no proof that wild animals have ever existed; (3) The West is full of fat people passing themselves off as outdoorsmen. Thursday April 27th Planning for the upcoming Carolina Clave reaches a fever pitch. The Dueling Daves finally call a truce to their wader argument and begin fighting over how long it will take them to get to the Clave. Fortunately for everyone else, the thread quickly morphs into a YAWTDIYSABT (Yet Another What To Do If You See A Bear Thread). With blatant disregard for the feelings of those who won’t be arriving at the clave until later in the week, Tom Brown posts the Clave Kickoff menu, generating a collective outporing of drool not experienced since Greg Pavlov’s last post. With Wayne Harrison–this year’s Carolina Clave Hat Designer–not around for much of the week, speculation abounds that the Clave hat will be adorned with the familiar Born-Again-ROFFian acronym "WWJD", which of course stands for "What Would Jehrke Do?". We’ll have to await his response to see if these rumors are accurate. Friday April 28th Indian Joe has graciously offered to provide the meat for the Clave Chili (aka Chili con Carnage). Apparently he’ll also be providing the chopped tomatoes, left over from the Clave meal he prepared in October. A discussion of Claves for the Next Millenium (aka 2001) begins, with suggestions for California (are there fish left in California?) and Florida (are you allowed to fish at Disney World?) being offered as suggestions. Unfortunately, yours truly cannot in good faith accept the nomination as Florida Clavemeister because, well, I get *really* seasick standing in a boat and I think Steve Spurrier is Satan. Saturday April 29th Someone asks a question about strike indicators and receives plenty of advice, not the least on-topic of which is that you just gotta see the movie "U-571." By now it has become obvious from the repeated trip reports presented by Waldo and Jeffy that they are trying to fish their brains out this week and next, knowing full well that all fish within 150 miles of Boone will be permanently spooked during the week of May 7th due to increase alcohol and urine content in the water during that time. They also must have seen the weather reports for that week which report scattered Fortenberries. And finally, Dave LaCourse shares with ROFF the fact that "you do not need a prostate to pee straight or have sex." Which begs the question: why even bother to get your prostate checked if you can still do those two things? But seriously everyone, if you’re over 40 don’t forget to Turn-and-Cough and Jiffy-Lube once a year. And that’s the week that was. Until next time, –Steve

Response:

Question:

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

Response:

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

Response:

Question:

I’m not sure how useful a strict definition of fly fishing would be. California, like many other states, makes a distinction for fishing with a single barbless hook and using artificial lures only which seems like the right thing, management-wise.  It’s not clear to me why you’d ever want to distinguish between fly fishers and spinning lure casters for purposes of management. In my book, someone who uses a spinning outfit to cast a bubble with a six foot leader and a fly on the end is fly-fishing.  I cannot see why you’d ever want to prevent someone from fishing in the above manner in waters intended for the more classical forms of angling with a fly rod.  (Unless, of course, you’re British! <g).

Response:

Yeah, that’s pretty much it.   If a state is going to have special fly fishing only streams or seasons, it should IMHO have a decent definition of what qualifies as fly fishing.  

I don’t think Georgia has any FF only public water, and I’m not sure I’d be in favor of it. We do have artificial only/single hook, etc type restrictions which I think are sufficient. I’d agree, though, that if you have a FF only designation you need a good definition.   — Charlie…

Response:

For what its worth, following are Connecticut’s official definitions of a fly and fly fishing. FLY:  A single or double hook dressed with hair, feathers, tinsel, thread, yarn or similar material to which no bait, spinner, spoon, plug, or other device is added. Extra weight may be built into the fly in its construction, as in a weighted nymph, and additional weight may attatched to the leader or line. The use of strike indicators is permitted.

This definition would make lead a head jig fly.  I believe some states have a clause saying that weight cannot be molded onto the hook.

Response:

In my book, someone who uses a spinning outfit to cast a bubble with a six foot leader and a fly on the end is fly-fishing.  I cannot see why you’d ever want to prevent someone from fishing in the above manner in waters intended for the more classical forms of angling with a fly rod.  (Unless, of course, you’re British! <g).

Rhubarb, rhubarb, murmur, murmur The right honorable gentleman from San Diego is full of CRAP!<g Mu Young Lee   Ann Arbor, MI  USA

Response:

For what its worth, following are Connecticut’s official definitions of a fly and fly fishing. FLY:  A single or double hook dressed with hair, feathers, tinsel, thread, yarn or similar material to which no bait, spinner, spoon, plug, or other device is added. FLY FISHING:  Angling with the use of a fly reel, fly rod, fly line, leader, and a fly or flies. Extra weight may be built into the fly in its construction, as in a weighted nymph, and additional weight may attatched to the leader or line. The use of strike indicators is permitted. George Adams

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -For what its worth, following are Connecticut’s official definitions of a fly and fly fishing. FLY:  A single or double hook dressed with hair, feathers, tinsel, thread, yarn or similar material to which no bait, spinner, spoon, plug, or other device is added. FLY FISHING:  Angling with the use of a fly reel, fly rod, fly line, leader, and a fly or flies. Extra weight may be built into the fly in its construction, as in a weighted nymph, and additional weight may attatched to the leader or line. The use of strike indicators is permitted.

I propose continuing this topic so that we might come to a practical definition of fly fishing that we could all shout out to our respective regulatory agencies.   Maybe some official definitions are already sufficient and concise.   If so, I’d love to hear them.   The Connecticut definition above, however, falls short IMO because of what is does not exclude.   Under that definition, an angler use the chuck and duck method of throwing weight but still be legally fly fishing so long as he used fly fishing equipment.   My own state regs (MD) are similarly vague. As I’ve said before, what makes fly fishing mechanically different from spin fishing is that with fly fishing, the fly is propelled by the weight of the line itself, not by weight on the end of the line.   Do you suppose we could actually work constructively together on ROFF to devise a concise regulatory definition of fly fishing that correctly and completely defines what we do? How do your state regs handle it? I’m serious.   For this topic, at least, forget all the controvery and BS we’ve been dealing with elsewhere and be rational and constructive.   We might actually accomplish something.   (I better stop before I start singing Cumbayah.) Joe

Response:

I propose continuing this topic so that we might come to a practical definition of fly fishing that we could all shout out to our respective regulatory agencies.   Maybe some official definitions are already sufficient and concise.   If so, I’d love to hear them. I guess I don’t understand whay fly fishing needs to be defined. Are you proposing fly-fishing only waters, special seasons, etc? — Charlie…

Yeah, that’s pretty much it.   If a state is going to have special fly fishing only streams or seasons, it should IMHO have a decent definition of what qualifies as fly fishing.   In my home state of Maryland, we do have FFO streams, and violations of the spirit of that regulation are not, to my knowledge, a problem here.   However, since I read this post right after a discussion of fishing on the Salmon R. in NY, the abuse of the FFO regulation there was fresh in my mind.   I’ve kind of had a burr under my saddle about that for a few years now.   It’s not my home state, but a substantial portion of the economy in that area derives from we tourists. If it’s not a national problem though, maybe I’m just spinning wheels. Joe Joe

Response:

Question:

Will be heading to the Bighorn the first week of may.  looking for others experiences this time of year.  Also, heard there may be some type of algee released from the lake this time of year.  Is this true?  Is there an impact on nymphing?  What else can you tell me?

Response:

Will be heading to the Bighorn the first week of may.  looking for others experiences this time of year.  Also, heard there may be some type of algee released from the lake this time of year.  Is this true?  Is there an impact on nymphing?  What else can you tell me?

I recommend you contact Bob Krumm, well know Bighorn guide at and it’s condition at different times of the year. Good luck. — Tight Lines ….. Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products http://www.btsflyfishing.com Tiemco quality hooks, under $6.00 pkg/50

Response:

Question:

Has anyone had any experience fishing in the Caymans or Cozumel? I’ll be there this Xmas and would like to do a little bit of fishing.  I heard there are bonefish and tarpon opportunities. Thanks for your help. Bill

Response:

I was in Grand Cayman last Feb. You are probably staying on 7 mile beach. If so, go north and find Papagallo Restaurant. It, by the way, is the only really fine restaurant we found on the island if you’re into that. Keep going past the place and suddenly you’er in bush on rough dirt roads. There are tons of canals that were dug to keep mosquitos down. There are supposed to be small tarpon  in them and if the lake at the reastaurant is any indication they are there. Whats even prettier is the shore along the north in this neighborhood. There is a reef way off with breakers and very large expansive flats and NO CROWDS at all which is very welcome from the 7 mile beach scene. It gets you into the island thing "Mon" and the fly fishing thing all very quickly ( and close to the hotels) and is really beautiful. When you get to the end of the first road past the restaurant go left to get to the shore here. Anothyer place thats even easier and very pretty, but not as wildernessesque, is to go through and south of Georgetown and take the road that goes along the south shore. There are a few parking areas where you can walk 30 feet to the flats and its gorgeus. The areas I found are after the road turns east, about 10 minutes after you have passed where the cruise ships dock. Check out the guy who is the doctor of the black coral clinic you pass on your way. Neat fellow with great prices on stuff he carves himself. I found grand cayman to be very civilized and without these fishing excursions, would have hated it. They balanced it perfectly. Its not a breathtaking place like the Virgin islands, but now you know where to find really inspiring places. Have a good time. Clair

Response:

Has anyone had any experience fishing in the Caymans or Cozumel? I’ll be there this Xmas and would like to do a little bit of fishing.  I heard there are bonefish and tarpon opportunities. Thanks for your help. Bill

You can catch bonefish on Cozumel anytime. There are some real good guides that can take you out to the remote north end of the island. I have fished with Victor, Papo, Enrica(sp) and Alex. You can stay at the Southern Cross Club on Little Cayman Island. They have bonefish and small land-locked tarpon. A 9′#8,  3 or 4 piece outfit is the most popular size for light salt water travel. It is a good size for most fish to 30#. I use a Mastery Bonefish floating line because it is stiffer and works better out of a boat. Take a varity of bonefish flies and some 2/0 streamers. I always take a few poppers. Polarized glasses and a hat are needed. If you have any questions you can e.mail or call me, 800/4000FLY (USA). William Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA

Response:

Was in Cayman Brac in 94 and stayed at Brac Reef. Main purpose was diving however, righty there in front of the hotel was a wadeable rip where one could cast to Tarpon, Lemon sharks and Barracuda ! In addition, Little Cayman was a short boat ride away and offered large Tarpon and Bonefish. — "The true Angler is content to fish alone" Brian Di Carlo

Response:

Question:

Going to the San Juan in March is a great idea — I was there for a week last year and I highly recommend it!  Be sure to dress properly as it gets cold.  You’ll need neoprenes, gloves and a hat. You can enjoy yourself on a low budget fairly easily.  For example, you can camp or stay in a nearby hotel for about $40 per night.  Food is reasonably priced in the local restaurants.  As far as a guide goes, its not abolutely necessary.  There are fish everywhere and the hotspots are easy to find.  A guide for one-half of a day for $125 might be a good idea, however, to learn how to fish the San Juan.  As you know, every river is different. The water level is the most important determinant of the ease and likely success of your fishing.  If the water is high and muddy, you I recommend that you at least ask some locals about the safe spots to fish. You certainly wouldn’t want to take a spill in 40 degree water running at 2500 cfs.

Response:

I am a college student who would like to fish the San Juan River in March,  for Spring Break.  Is the fishing very good this time of year?  I am also on a tight budget, is a guide necessary to get some quality fishing ( I am a very experienced trout fisherman)?  I would appreciate any advice on fishing this river, expecially at this time of year…also, what does an out of state license cost?  Thank you in advance…!                                                                   B.K. McMillian                                                                   Mizzou Fly-Fisherman                                                                   email:

Response:

Question:

[snip snip] in the other direction. The Blue is good as is the Frying pan but the smaller and less fished rivers and creeks of N. Co. are a true joy. The fish may not be as big but the crowds are not there and the experience is

[snip snip] they won’t be for long if this keeps up… Tim Walker

Response:

I am going to Colorado next summer to fly fish.  Since I will be driving from West Virginia, I would prefer not to go more than 2 hours from Denver. I need advice as to the best streams to fish and possibly places to stay. I would prefer a cabin or cottage.  What about the South Platte, Fryingpan, Colorado, and Blue River? Which would be the best choice? Any help or suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for you time. Scott

Response:

There are many good places within 2 hrs of Denver. The S.Platte is over fished and crowed with very inconsiderate fishermen. I would suggest going in the other direction. The Blue is good as is the Frying pan but the smaller and less fished rivers and creeks of N. Co. are a true joy. The fish may not be as big but the crowds are not there and the experience is much better. Pristene settings, little or no trash. Check out the high mountain lakes and streams of the RMNP. Estes Park Anglers can help with guides and places to stay in the area.

Response:

I try and visit my some of my kids in Colo every summer.  But as you know even in late August the So Platte at Deckers was unfishable and the Arkansas as well.  But maybe this summer will be normal…. South Platte River in Deckers.  Take Rt 285 west out of Denver.  Turn Left at Pine Junction.  Follow to the bottom the the canyon.  Use 2 flies, RS-2 and Buckskin (both nymphs) size 18 or 20.  No larger than a 6X leader is mandatory.  Use a small floating strike indicator and place a very small shot about 6 to 8 inches from the fly.  The idea is to keep the nymph just off the bottom so adjusting the indicator for water depth is essential.  Fish places where slow water meets fast water like behind larger rocks.  The fish are there so make sure you work the section very well adjusting the indicator for depth.  Looking for flashing fish near the bottom that are feeding.  Flip the rig up stream and let the indicator float as naturally as possible.  Keep repeating until the indicator hesitates the slightest in the float.  Just raise up you rod tip and bingo! there’s a fish on.   If you use this method correctly you will get hook ups (gauranteed!!) the trick is to bring them to net on a 6X leader in fast water.  The regulations are flies and lures only, 2 fish per day over 16 inches.  Try just down stream from the trestle bridge at Deckers.  The technique is effective on all Colo streams.  The "Flies and Lies" fly shop in Deckers can also help in supplying you with flies. On a Saturday, you will not be alone.  But there are so many fish and so few fisherman that know the method and use it effectively , it has never gotten in my way.  I’d recommend getting there at 1st light (Say 5:30) fish unitl 1000 AM and then leave.  Return at say 6 Pm and fish until dark (9 PM).  I’ve found you can avoid a crowd this way.                                                indicator                                                                                                                                  micro shot                        (e.g. lil corkie) In the current, looks like this flow is right to left                                                                                !                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 !                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 ! I’d also suggest Tarryall Resevoir, over Kenosha Pass (RT 285 west and turn left at Jefferson) in south park.  Wade fish from shore with damsel fly/dragon fly/sonefly nymphs twitched just below the surface (long leader, 10′).  You can cast to feeding fish.  Fish the side that has the paved road frontage toward the dam (in between the stone jettys).  There is very good dry fly activity there after the sun goes down (say 7pm) and dark. (Native browns, stocked rainbows (12-14") and even some cutthroat and kokanee).  Tarryall creek (not subject to runoff) downstream from the resevoir is also pretty good (this section is now part of a private club). We have had great success on the Arkansas River down stream from Salida.  Good success fishing for Browns on brown stone fly nymphs fished close shore.  Best technique is walk down the middle and fish both shore lines.  The other 2 flies that have been good to us are the muddler minnow and the Renegade.  This stretch has the same regulations as the Deckers section of the So. Platte.  The signs this summer indicated it is now Public Lands all the way down to the bridge in Wellsville. Keep in touch, maybe we can "hook up" when I am out there this summer (I hope). Good fishin!!! Bill Althoff

Response:

Question:

You’re a wealth of information.  Thanks!  And glad to see you’re in higher ed too.  No wonder you’re so willing to share info.  Got any suggestions on the best dry fly patterns to use?? Roger Gary L. Bertrand

: Thanks for your help Gary.  I really appreciate it.  But a : question…terms I’ve not heard "put&take" and "NoCreel."  Do both of : those mean catch a release?  That’s just fine with me, I’d never keep : a fish unless it accidently was killed in the process of catching it : anyway. : : Are the parks closed during the week all winter?  When do they open : and about what time of year does the good dry fly fishing start? : : Roger. : : I say "put & take" in the sense that during the regular season at the trout : parks, they PUT them (rainbows, usually 11-14") in each evening (about 2.3 : trout per expected tag) and we TAKE them out the next day (limit 5) on a $2 : daily tag.  Whistle blows at 6:30, everybody casts, 1/3 catch a fish, 2/3 : catch somebody else.  You can C&R if you like (20+ days are not uncommon), : but I don’t recommend it in crowded areas when the bubbas aren’t catching : much.  There are different conditions at the 4 parks (I am not familiar : with Roaring River Park) during the regular season – March 1 to October 30. :  Meramek Springs (St.James) Park allows anything, and I don’t recommend it : unless you enjoy casting around some guy chunking cheese on a treble hook : with a Rhino rod.  Bennett Springs (N of Lebanon) has 3 zones – flies only, : something like flies only but you aren’t restricted to a single-point hook : (lots of rooster tails), and bait.  Montauk Springs (SW of Salem, SE of : Licking) has flies only, anything goes, and a c&r area.  Winter season in : all 4 parks is from mid-November to mid February, weekends only, c&r (only : they call it NoCreel), flies only.  They stock them only once pretty : heavily at the start of winter season, so the catching is great in Nov and : drops off during the winter. :       The rivers below Meramec Springs (Meramec R) and Montauk (Current R) are : trophy trout areas (limit 3,15" minimum) and are open all year anytime. : You can fish them on a state or out-of-state license, put can’t keep trout : without a trout stamp.  The catching is not as good as it is in the parks, : but the fishing is much better.  The river below Bennett Springs (Niangua : R) is also open all year with no restrictions, but I haven’t fished it very : much.  I find the Bennett Springs area too crowded, even during winter : season, but they have some of the best shops in the state, so I make a : couple of trips (it’s about an hour-and-a-half from here) a year for : fly-tying supplies. :       The good dry fly fishing starts around daybreak on any day you’re lucky : enough to be out in the river without freezing your butt off (and maybe : even a few mornings with frost on your pumpkin), but I think the fishing is : best on weekdays in April.  There’s too many people on weekends, and by May : there’s too many people all week. : Gary : — : Gary L. Bertrand   Dept. of Chemistry : University of Missouri-Rolla

Response:

One good place to start might be Bennett Spring State Park. It’s a put-n- take fishery but at least is relatively easy to get to from KC and can provide a fairly decent "fix". Ask any store that sells flies how to get there.

Response:

I’ll give it a try….an, I’m glad you know about the need for a fishing "fix."  I’d take a 6" rainbow right now just to see a fish — it’s been too long since my waiders have been wet. : One good place to start might be Bennett Spring State Park. It’s a put-n- : take fishery but at least is relatively easy to get to from KC and can : provide a fairly decent "fix". Ask any store that sells flies how to get : there.

Response:

I’ll give it a try….an, I’m glad you know about the need for a fishing "fix."  I’d take a 6" rainbow right now just to see a fish — it’s been too long since my waiders have been wet.

Don’t go running down there right now, expecting to put&take.  All of the Missouri trout parks are now in Winter Season for NoCreel (C&R) fishing only, and only open Fri, Sat, Sunday.  A $5 permit lets you fish all the parks (4) all winter. — Gary L. Bertrand

Response:

Thanks for your help Gary.  I really appreciate it.  But a question…terms I’ve not heard "put&take" and "NoCreel."  Do both of those mean catch a release?  That’s just fine with me, I’d never keep a fish unless it accidently was killed in the process of catching it anyway. Are the parks closed during the week all winter?  When do they open and about what time of year does the good dry fly fishing start? Roger. Gary L.

: I’ll give it a try….an, I’m glad you know about the need for a fishing : "fix."  I’d take a 6" rainbow right now just to see a fish — it’s been : too long since my waiders have been wet. : : Don’t go running down there right now, expecting to put&take.  All of the : Missouri trout parks are now in Winter Season for NoCreel (C&R) fishing : only, and only open Fri, Sat, Sunday.  A $5 permit lets you fish all the : parks (4) all winter. : — : Gary L. Bertrand

Response:

Thanks for your help Gary.  I really appreciate it.  But a question…terms I’ve not heard "put&take" and "NoCreel."  Do both of those mean catch a release?  That’s just fine with me, I’d never keep a fish unless it accidently was killed in the process of catching it anyway. Are the parks closed during the week all winter?  When do they open and about what time of year does the good dry fly fishing start? Roger.

I say "put & take" in the sense that during the regular season at the trout parks, they PUT them (rainbows, usually 11-14") in each evening (about 2.3 trout per expected tag) and we TAKE them out the next day (limit 5) on a $2 daily tag.  Whistle blows at 6:30, everybody casts, 1/3 catch a fish, 2/3 catch somebody else.  You can C&R if you like (20+ days are not uncommon), but I don’t recommend it in crowded areas when the bubbas aren’t catching much.  There are different conditions at the 4 parks (I am not familiar with Roaring River Park) during the regular season – March 1 to October 30.  Meramek Springs (St.James) Park allows anything, and I don’t recommend it unless you enjoy casting around some guy chunking cheese on a treble hook with a Rhino rod.  Bennett Springs (N of Lebanon) has 3 zones – flies only, something like flies only but you aren’t restricted to a single-point hook (lots of rooster tails), and bait.  Montauk Springs (SW of Salem, SE of Licking) has flies only, anything goes, and a c&r area.  Winter season in all 4 parks is from mid-November to mid February, weekends only, c&r (only they call it NoCreel), flies only.  They stock them only once pretty heavily at the start of winter season, so the catching is great in Nov and drops off during the winter.         The rivers below Meramec Springs (Meramec R) and Montauk (Current R) are trophy trout areas (limit 3,15" minimum) and are open all year anytime. You can fish them on a state or out-of-state license, put can’t keep trout without a trout stamp.  The catching is not as good as it is in the parks, but the fishing is much better.  The river below Bennett Springs (Niangua R) is also open all year with no restrictions, but I haven’t fished it very much.  I find the Bennett Springs area too crowded, even during winter season, but they have some of the best shops in the state, so I make a couple of trips (it’s about an hour-and-a-half from here) a year for fly-tying supplies.         The good dry fly fishing starts around daybreak on any day you’re lucky enough to be out in the river without freezing your butt off (and maybe even a few mornings with frost on your pumpkin), but I think the fishing is best on weekdays in April.  There’s too many people on weekends, and by May there’s too many people all week. Gary — Gary L. Bertrand   Dept. of Chemistry University of Missouri-Rolla

Response:

I’m looking for some good fly fishing places in Missouri.  I’m expecially interested in streams that are within easy driving distance to Kansas City.  I normally fish Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, so this will be a new exprerience, so I’d appreciate any suggestions.  Thanks!

You will have to decide what is easy driving distance, but I’ll give you some ideas.If you are talking about in the normal in season time, Do the Merremac River and the Current river. As far as the Merremac goes, there is a bunch of big water fishing from around St. James on downstream. (Jon boat is good to float with then get out and wade.) The Current river offers some great classic trout stream fishing from Montauk springs on downstream. (Montauk is good for the kids and some practice in the flys only sections. Also a decent place to stay.) concentrate your serious fishing however on the current river downstream from the springs. Locals can give you guidance. Canoe is good for transportation. There are a few liveries around Montauk and you can park your car at the pickup and float down to it and leave the canoe. Don’t be put off by the Corn fisherman in the parks. They are gettin’ dinner and having a good time with the family. The Classic fishing, as I said is in the streams out of the parks. If you want some REAL western type fishing, go to Mountain Home Arkansas and fish the White and Norfolk rivers. Definitely hire a guide at Blue Ribbon Flies in Mountain Home. It will make your trip worthwile and safe. Best fishing is this time of year for the big ‘uns. Great fishing year around though. By the way, some of the land on the Current River (which is part of the Ozark Sceninc Riverway) was homesteaded by my ancestors, and I still have a bunch of relatives  we go see from time to time.     If you want specifics on locations and suggestions rather than these generalizations, Email me and I’ll respond. Kevin Williams-Indianapolis, IN

Response:

I’m looking for some good fly fishing places in Missouri.  I’m expecially interested in streams that are within easy driving distance to Kansas City.  I normally fish Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, so this will be a new exprerience, so I’d appreciate any suggestions.  Thanks!

Response: