Question:

Fished with Capt. Dave Dudley for a 4 hour trip.  Headed out of Oregon Inlet to the ocean side and about 6 miles north and a quarter mile off the beach.  Stripers were scattered but managed 5 small fish 15 to 18 lbs. Will try one more time before the water temp gets too low for a decent fish.  Reports from the Sound indicate plenty of 3-8 pounders still being taken. Fish are taking LARGE Halfandhalfs and Deceivers (at least 8 inches). Capt Dave is an excellent guide specializing in fly fishing and light tackle. Spotted a nice whale in the area and rode along side for a bit. Great to look at but stink big time. Wayne to fish is human….to release Divine!!!

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time, pack the 40-weight rod and some #54 diatom imitations……backing should be substantial as well<g. Report warmed up the day for me, ice-bound in central PA.                                  Tom

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Question:

On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

At the Maine Clave in September, the Lakewood Camps staff prepared sack lunches for people who didn’t want to interrupt their fishing at mealtime. I recently found the remains of a stick of cheese from one of those lunches in the bottom of one of the front pockets of my vest. I left it there for good luck. –Steve

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Pretty much was Ken has said, except for the camera.  My most important tool is a knot tying tool, although if I lost it I could use my hemostats to tie the clinch knots. I also carry a stick of "Mean streak", a magic marker for coloring the last 12 – 16 inches of tippet white.   Dave LaCourse Pirate and Bottom Dweller

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"Peter Charles" wrote Different fish  species usually means different stuff but the constants are: snip Peter

Nice list Peter, I also carry: Albolene Tippet material Extra leaders antiseptic Ernie

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two condoms, a wine opener, a yashica t4super, two rolls of film (one b&w, one 400asa fuji print), and a waterproof copy of the kama sutra.

Two, huh? Who’s the other guy? –Steve

Response:

I also carry a stick of "Mean streak", a magic marker for coloring the last 12 – 16 inches of tippet white.

Interesting. I’ve never heard of doing something like that. I’m assuming that’s to make the tippet more invisible when fishing dry flies, no? Is that for mono tippet or only for flouro? I thought the darker colors were more invisible so this is news to me. –Steve

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frog fanny What’s a frog’s ass doin in your vest? Seriously though, what is it?

Frog’s Fanny is a self-described "Double Duty Fly Treatment". I first learned of it this summer from Mary Dorsey’s guide friend who gave me a couple of his "Ray Charles Specials", (even a blind guy could catch a fish on this fly , that had been brushed with this stuff. I was REALLY impressed with it and said so here on ROFF. Turns out Charlie Wilson had discovered this stuff a long time ago and was so impressed he bought a whole case, just in case they ever went out of business, so he sent me a bottle. It’s essentially a very fine powder that you apply with a brush to work it into the dubbing. Highly recommended. — Ken Fortenberry

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I also carry a stick of "Mean streak", a magic marker for coloring the last 12 – 16 inches of tippet white. "Zimbo" wrote … Interesting. I’ve never heard of doing something like that. I’m assuming that’s to make the tippet more invisible when fishing dry flies, no? Is that for mono tippet or only for flouro? I thought the darker colors were more invisible so this is news to me. –Steve

Zimbo, In some parts of the country there is a drifting caddis that spins a white line which helps it to drift.  A white tippet resembles this line. Ernie

Response:

On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

I’m a bit of a minimalist, but here goes… – flies (usually in two small boxes) – extra tippet – license – floatant – hemostat – sunglasses – trash bag (for carrying out garbage left by other fishermen) Don’t have a vest, usually use a generic fanny-pack.      - Ken

Response:

Zimbo writes: I also carry a stick of "Mean streak", a magic marker for coloring the last 12 – 16 inches of tippet white. Interesting. I’ve never heard of doing something like that. I’m assuming that’s to make the tippet more invisible when fishing dry flies, no? Is that for mono tippet or only for flouro? I thought the darker colors were more invisible so this is news to me. –Steve

No.  It is used to color the tippet (kind doesn’t matter) to mock the thread of net making caddis worms.  It is a neat trick used on the Rapid and other rivers in Maine.  It works with the green rock worm.  Sometimes the worms (larva) are washed away from their rock, but hold on, not unlike a spider dangling from his web.  Read Gary LaFontaine’sCaddisflies. Dave L.

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On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

in my wader pocket- -spool or 2 of maxima -license -hook file tucked inside front of wader (or if raining in rain jacket pockets)- -one flybox -one shooting head wallet for holding sink-tips vests suck,<G chris

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Nice list Peter, I also carry: Albolene Tippet material Extra leaders antiseptic Ernie

I’ll be you carry yourself very well, Ernie. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

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: Frog’s Fanny is a self-described "Double Duty Fly Treatment". : It’s essentially a very fine powder that you apply with a : brush to work it into the dubbing. Highly recommended. So is it bait or what?  ;-) You never actually say what double duties it performs… JonCook. — Are you a r.o.f.f. newbie? Then see http://www.cs.nmsu.edu/~jcook/ROFF/

Response:

On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

There’s no rule that says you need to fill them. What I carry depends on where I’m fishing. For local waters or waters where I think I know what to expect, I have a somewhat minimal fishing shirt I use that has only two pockets. I carry floatant, nippers, and two spools of tippet. I carry two small flies boxes.  Inside of one of the boxes there is some Biostrike strike ind. and a few small weights in addition to flies. I ALWAYS carry a pair of reading glasses. On waters I’m not familiar with, I carry a fully loaded vest but the main difference is more flies. I do try and avoid this because I find a fully loaded vest a pain. Willi

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: Frog’s Fanny is a self-described "Double Duty Fly Treatment". … You never actually say what double duties it performs…

Blurb straight off the bottle; … Frog’s Fanny is not only the best dry fly floatant that you will ever use, now you can really "Match the Hatch" by coating your nymphs with Frog’s Fanny. It will put an air bubble around them that looks exactly like an emerging insect. It floats a dry fly better than anything I’ve ever used if brushed into the dubbing thoroughly, can’t vouch for the "air bubble around the nymph" claim. — Ken Fortenberry

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good inventory snipped<

This shows me that I don’t fish often enough.   To give the detailed inventory Ken offers, I’d have to get out my vest and check. I never carry my sunglasses in my vest, they stay on a neck cord.   I don’t usually carry a compass, but I have taken a small GPS on occasion.   Never needed a tape measure (yet).   Don’t carry a Leatherman tool, but have a nifty little pair of curved needlenose pliers. All in all, I carry much the same stuff as Ken, except in my upper right outside pocket are some strike indicators. Nice idea for a thread, thanks TR.<

ditto. Joe F.

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I’ll add ; a small pen lite flashlight, a cheap pair of reading glasses chap stick pocket knife – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – … My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with? Inside pockets (5): first aid kit leatherman tool map & compass car keys Outside vest: patch of amadou nipper on a retractable cord hemostat foam fly patch (can’t get barbless hooks to stay on a wool patch) hook hone Upper right pockets (2): leader wallet with spare leaders & licenses floatant frog fanny Orvis dessicant Upper left pockets (2): camera spools of tippet (usually 4X, 5X, 6X for trout) Lower right pockets (2): sunglasses whisky flask fly box Lower left pockets (3): stream thermometer (used to be outside next to hook hone but I lost too many) fly box red Mucilin patch of Cortland line cleaner container of assorted weights (rarely used tape measure Back of vest (two compartments): lunch water bottle rain jacket and a brand new landing net from Float ‘n Fish. Nice idea for a thread, thanks TR.

         Harry Mason     www.Troutflies.com               *** "Quality Flies for a Trout’s Eyes"

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Different fish  species usually means different stuff but the constants are: nippers hemostat hook sharpener magnet-needle-nailknot thingie key to the back of my truck flashlight thermometer bandaids compass matches splitshot strike indicator putty spare sunglasses also usually carry a small camera and a flask of the good stuff Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://members.home.net/pcharles/streamers/index.html

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frog fanny

What’s a frog’s ass doin in your vest? Seriously though, what is it?

Response:

At first you just put in a few things that you need and before you know it you don’t have any room left. Ernie "TimeRanger" wrote – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

Response:

On a typical day of fishing -, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?

        two condoms, a wine opener, a yashica t4super, two rolls of film (one b&w, one 400asa fuji print), and a waterproof copy of the kama sutra. wayno

Response:

… My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

I use an LL Bean chest pack and usually carry the following: Outside: Albolene Nippers Hemostat Flashlight Insect repellent Leader straightener Mesh Pockets: Tippet Material, sizes depending on stream and time of year, Inside: Goose neck light Compass Reading glasses Sunglasses Extra leaders More tippet material Dessicant 1-1/2" square magnet(instead of fleece patch) Weights Small needle nose pliers Car key Wallet containing licenses Thermometer Hook hone Line dressing Backstrap: Maps (if needed) Spare reel spool w/line Bandana Toilet Paper Wader patch Spare glasses Lunch, light jacket, or rain gear (if needed) In very hot weather, I use a mesh backstrap which carries nothing, so all of the above would be eliminated. Again, good idea for a thread. George Adams "From the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse, the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down." ___Kris Kristofferson "The Pilgrim/Chapter 33"

Response:

On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

In my vest (just going by memory here) Inside Pockets Left Side Leader Wallet (3 packs of 10′ 5x & 7.5" 6x leader. One fast sinking leader) Extra Spool of 5x, 6x tippet Pewter Flask (filled with either Captain Morgan, Talisker or Tequila) Miniature Flashlight Inside Pockets Right Side Eyeglasses Fishing License Bottom Left Outside Pockets Two foam fly boxes – one nymph/emergers, one dry fly Bottom Right Outside Pockets Midge Fly box David’s  Sunflower Seeds (Salsa or Ranch) Middle Outside Pocket Leatherman Tool Spyderco Pocket Knife Top Outside Pocket Split shot Strike Indicators (Yarn and Foam) Outside D-ring left side – Fly floatant – Albolene Outside Right side – Old metal shower curtain ring – holds two spools of tippet Zinger with Snips for tippet Back zippered section – If weather looks bad – store my rain jacket in there.  If it is good weather, will store extra beers. Depending on time of year, In the bottom of it, carry my fingerless wool gloves Back outside D-ring – Net Wear a fanny pack for lower back support, wade belt Outside Pocket Safewater Bottle (In a pinch will also hold 3 beers and a small sandwich) Inside chest waders pocket – On the San Juan, carried my digital camera in a Ziploc freezer sandwich bag bc. — I don’t care who you are, you are not walking on the water while I’m fishing.

Response:

On a typical day of fishing – say on the recent San Juan Clave, what are the things in your vest/chest pack that you would not be without (besides flies)?  My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with? — All fishermen are liars ‘cept you n me, and I’m starting to have doubts about you! www.fishticker.com

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… My vest (el cheapo Wally World special) has about 20 different pockets and an assortment of D-rings.  What sort of goodies do *you* fill these pockets with?

Inside pockets (5): first aid kit leatherman tool map & compass car keys Outside vest: patch of amadou nipper on a retractable cord hemostat foam fly patch (can’t get barbless hooks to stay on a wool patch) hook hone Upper right pockets (2): leader wallet with spare leaders & licenses floatant frog fanny Orvis dessicant Upper left pockets (2): camera spools of tippet (usually 4X, 5X, 6X for trout) Lower right pockets (2): sunglasses whisky flask fly box Lower left pockets (3): stream thermometer (used to be outside next to hook hone but I lost too many) fly box red Mucilin patch of Cortland line cleaner container of assorted weights (rarely used tape measure Back of vest (two compartments): lunch water bottle rain jacket and a brand new landing net from Float ‘n Fish. Nice idea for a thread, thanks TR. — Ken Fortenberry

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Question:

You said it twice, so, I can only guess that was a sincere *response*. Opie  **Hurt in Lenoir!**         isn’t that the town that inspired the famous axiom, to wit: "if you’re found here at night, you’ll be found here in the morning"? or was that "you can’t go home again"?         no, wait:  "stuck inside of lenoir with the ashville blues again"…ah, hell, forget it.

I knew a guy named Emil Lenoir many years ago.  Once told me that he bought a twelve year old Tuareg girl when he was in the foreign legion in Morocco.  Not sure what the connection is here. Wolfgang who has been to Lodi, WI but managed to escape

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Wolfgang who has been to Lodi, WI but managed to escape         in the inimitable style of ol forty himself:  not to put too fine a line on it, or some similar shit, but wasn’t creedence clearwater making reference to lodi, california? anally retentively yours, wayno

No, no, NO!  What DO they teach in the schools these days?  Leopold squeezed the Congo with an iron hand from Belgium, WI. Hitler wrought havoc on the entire European continent (not to mention a whole heap of gypsies and other undesirables) from Berlin, WI.  Friday night witch frys are a lovely old tradition in Salem, WI.  And why on Earth would anyone suppose that an immensely popular rock band would sing a song about some nothing little burg in California?  And don’t even get me started on what goes on in Oconomowoc!! Wolfgang geographer nonpareil         p.s.:  and isn’t this just the kind of question that answers the question, "what the hell does wayno *do* all the time…

the answer IS the question grasshopper

Response:

…. wilson’s is always good…. Sure!  Never took ME there, sumbitch! Wolfgang who has created a monster.  Becky wants to go backpacking on the AT in NC in April.  Wanna go fishin Waldo?    :)

sure as shit i’ll go afishin’ with ya….. but *not* on wilsons <g walt

Response:

You said it twice, so, I can only guess that was a sincere *response*. Opie  **Hurt in Lenoir!**

        isn’t that the town that inspired the famous axiom, to wit: "if you’re found here at night, you’ll be found here in the morning"? or was that "you can’t go home again"?         no, wait:  "stuck inside of lenoir with the ashville blues again"…ah, hell, forget it.         wayno

Response:

Wolfgang who has been to Lodi, WI but managed to escape

        in the inimitable style of ol forty himself:  not to put too fine a line on it, or some similar shit, but wasn’t creedence clearwater making reference to lodi, california? anally retentively yours, wayno         p.s.:  and isn’t this just the kind of question that answers the question, "what the hell does wayno *do* all the time…

Response:

This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller. …

FIVE people fishing Wilson’s at the same time ? Sounds crowded. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller. … FIVE people fishing Wilson’s at the same time ? Sounds crowded.

lol’s…. walt (couldn’t really call them drsob’s, at least when they’re not present)

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Now looka here Walt, I don’t mind a little embelishment of detail to make a good story, but *nobody* will believe *that* introduction. It was a fun trip, though.  Wish I could remember what Tom — Tom Brown Wake Forest, NC Please don’t tell my mother that I hang out at ROFF; she thinks I play piano at a whorehouse.                                              Author’s name withheld This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller.

Response:

This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller.

<sniped I don’t know about anybody else, but the writing here is a good as the articles I read in my fly fishing magazines and I really like the annual subscription rate…

Response:

‘preciate the invite Walt! Opie  **No LDB’s in Walt’s future from me!**

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller. Tom stayed here at my home and Jeff stayed down at his cabin, the only roughing-it, aside from the stream, was cooking those big 16 ounce rib eyes on the grill friday evening. Saturday morning we headed out to Wilson’s Creek after stops at the flyshop and the grocery store for sandwiches and beer. We arrived at the trail head, rigged up, grabbed a walking brew, and headed down the trail to meet the stream. No encounters of the snake kind, a uneventful 30 minute hike. The stream was absolutely gorgeous. The water was running high and clear from the recent rains we have been enjoying here in the mountains. The usual rainbow in the first pool rejected my initial proffering, par for the course, I think he enjoys teasing me. We fished upstream with the usual ahhhs and reflections that a beautiful day on the water inspires deep within. Initially, the fishing was slow as we moved up. We each caught a fish or two with some misses. I was fishing a black beetle but switched to an adams para b/c in my haste to leave the house, I had forgotten my sunglasses and a low riding black meniscus beetle is tough to keep track of even with glasses. Both Tom & Jeff were fishing visible flies and the switchover made sense. We fished up through the timeless granite pools, each taking his turn, each watching the waters with anticipation of the next strike. We arrived at the junction of Little Wilsons and Jeff headed solo up that tiny water…. water that is infested with little feisty brownies in the 5 to 10 inch range. Tom and I continued up Wilson’s and it was like night and day. Whereas the fishing was somewhat slow before, we were now catching fish in nearly every pool or riffle, I think we even had a three fish pool, which is an accomplishment on these waters. On this day, I encountered a knot failure. I lost a fly in a rhodo when the line broke at the clinch knot. I usually don’t suffer that failure, the knot is a good one and I’ve been using it as long as I can remember. It’s usually my wind knot that fails. The secret to a good clinch is 5 turns, through the loops, wet with spittle, and gently cinch down by holding the fly in one hand and the tippet in the other, don’t tighten by pulling on the tag end of the tippet. Also, I believe that tippet needs to be similar in size to the eye of the hook for a clinch to perform properly. A size 6 wooly bugger on 6x will break at the knot….. just my experience. Anyway, Jeff, after much success on ‘lil wilsons, pulled out into a camp of beer-swillin, pig-lovin, banjo-playin rednecks. That must have been a sight. He hiked back to the truck and was kind enough to drive it up to where Tom & I would be pulling out so we would not suffer those gross indignities <g. It was great to see Jeff’s truck when we pulled out. The last 1/2 mile of river all I heard from Tom was "where’s the beer!" We lounged a bit enjoyin’ a beer or two, ate our lunches, and Jeff and I headed back up Wilson’s, leaving Tom with the beer. I think it made Jeff’s day when he caught one more fish than I on this side trip…. he being such a competitive cuss. Great day, great fish, and greater companions…… thanks guys, I needed it. Walt

Response:

I never saw that original post, thanks for the report, have been wondering about fishing Wilson’s sometime soon  Would you say the fishing generally stays good between now and, say, October?  Thanks, This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller. Tom stayed here at my home and Jeff stayed down at his cabin, the only roughing-it, aside from the stream, was cooking those big 16 ounce rib eyes on the grill friday evening. Saturday morning we headed out to Wilson’s Creek

Regards, Jeff

Response:

I never saw that original post, thanks for the report, have been wondering about fishing Wilson’s sometime soon  Would you say the fishing generally stays good between now and, say, October?  Thanks,

that’s whaccha get fer killfilin’ me <g sure jeff…. wilson’s is always good…. walt

Response:

‘preciate the invite Walt! Opie  **No LDB’s in Walt’s future from me!**

not my fault op. i swear, it was jeff’s fault. he was in charge of the invites… ldb’s…. shoot, i think we drank a bunch of them <g walt

Response:

You said it twice, so, I can only guess that was a sincere *response*. Opie  **Hurt in Lenoir!**

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ‘preciate the invite Walt! Opie  **No LDB’s in Walt’s future from me!** not my fault op. i swear, it was jeff’s fault. he was in charge of the invites… ldb’s…. shoot, i think we drank a bunch of them <g walt

Response:

…. wilson’s is always good….

Sure!  Never took ME there, sumbitch! Wolfgang who has created a monster.  Becky wants to go backpacking on the AT in NC in April.  Wanna go fishin Waldo?    :)

Response:

This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller. <sniped I don’t know about anybody else, but the writing here is a good as the articles I read in my fly fishing magazines and I really like the annual subscription rate…

Amen!  An English professor I knew in college was fond of saying that writing is the most difficult work that man has ever created for himself.  He never read this news group.  Never have so many made it look so easy. Wolfgang waiting for the day when some ambitious soul collects it all and turns it into a novel

Response:

This past weekend I was visited by two gracious Southern gentlemen, Tom Brown and Jeff Miller. Tom stayed here at my home and Jeff stayed down at his cabin, the only roughing-it, aside from the stream, was cooking those big 16 ounce rib eyes on the grill friday evening. Saturday morning we headed out to Wilson’s Creek after stops at the flyshop and the grocery store for sandwiches and beer. We arrived at the trail head, rigged up, grabbed a walking brew, and headed down the trail to meet the stream. No encounters of the snake kind, a uneventful 30 minute hike. The stream was absolutely gorgeous. The water was running high and clear from the recent rains we have been enjoying here in the mountains. The usual rainbow in the first pool rejected my initial proffering, par for the course, I think he enjoys teasing me. We fished upstream with the usual ahhhs and reflections that a beautiful day on the water inspires deep within. Initially, the fishing was slow as we moved up. We each caught a fish or two with some misses. I was fishing a black beetle but switched to an adams para b/c in my haste to leave the house, I had forgotten my sunglasses and a low riding black meniscus beetle is tough to keep track of even with glasses. Both Tom & Jeff were fishing visible flies and the switchover made sense. We fished up through the timeless granite pools, each taking his turn, each watching the waters with anticipation of the next strike. We arrived at the junction of Little Wilsons and Jeff headed solo up that tiny water…. water that is infested with little feisty brownies in the 5 to 10 inch range. Tom and I continued up Wilson’s and it was like night and day. Whereas the fishing was somewhat slow before, we were now catching fish in nearly every pool or riffle, I think we even had a three fish pool, which is an accomplishment on these waters. On this day, I encountered a knot failure. I lost a fly in a rhodo when the line broke at the clinch knot. I usually don’t suffer that failure, the knot is a good one and I’ve been using it as long as I can remember. It’s usually my wind knot that fails. The secret to a good clinch is 5 turns, through the loops, wet with spittle, and gently cinch down by holding the fly in one hand and the tippet in the other, don’t tighten by pulling on the tag end of the tippet. Also, I believe that tippet needs to be similar in size to the eye of the hook for a clinch to perform properly. A size 6 wooly bugger on 6x will break at the knot….. just my experience. Anyway, Jeff, after much success on ‘lil wilsons, pulled out into a camp of beer-swillin, pig-lovin, banjo-playin rednecks. That must have been a sight. He hiked back to the truck and was kind enough to drive it up to where Tom & I would be pulling out so we would not suffer those gross indignities <g. It was great to see Jeff’s truck when we pulled out. The last 1/2 mile of river all I heard from Tom was "where’s the beer!" We lounged a bit enjoyin’ a beer or two, ate our lunches, and Jeff and I headed back up Wilson’s, leaving Tom with the beer. I think it made Jeff’s day when he caught one more fish than I on this side trip…. he being such a competitive cuss. Great day, great fish, and greater companions…… thanks guys, I needed it. Walt

Response:

Question:

Can anyone help me.  I love biking and flyfishing in lakes in the South. It just seems natural that i should have a small one man fishing boat with pedals like a bicycle.  Ideally it would have gears much like a 3-speed, or 10-speed bike. Could a bicycle frame be adapted to  power a small boat?  If anyone knows of such a beast or kits/plans, etc. please let me know.  Thank you.

Response:

We have plans for pedal boats.  These date back to the 40’s and 50’s. I do not recall whether any of them have gearing like a 3 or 10 speed bike.  We charge $15 for copying and mailing.  Contact us if you are still interested. Good Luck and Fair Seas Marshall and Jo Duhaime,Jr. Classic Boatworks of Maine – We build and restore classic wood boats. http://www.nemaine.com/classicboatworks

Can anyone help me.  I love biking and flyfishing in lakes in the South. It just seems natural that i should have a small one man fishing boat with pedals like a bicycle.  Ideally it would have gears much like a 3-speed, or 10-speed bike. Could a bicycle frame be adapted to  power a small boat?  If anyone knows of such a beast or kits/plans, etc. please let me know.  Thank you.

Response:

We have plans for pedal boats.  These date back to the 40’s and 50’s. I do not recall whether any of them have gearing like a 3 or 10 speed bike.  We charge $15 for copying and mailing.  Contact us if you are still interested. Good Luck and Fair Seas Marshall and Jo Duhaime,Jr. Classic Boatworks of Maine – We build and restore classic wood boats. http://www.nemaine.com/classicboatworks

Can anyone help me.  I love biking and flyfishing in lakes in the South. It just seems natural that i should have a small one man fishing boat with pedals like a bicycle.  Ideally it would have gears much like a 3-speed, or 10-speed bike. Could a bicycle frame be adapted to  power a small boat?  If anyone knows of such a beast or kits/plans, etc. please let me know.  Thank you.

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Going to fish the Bighorn in September.  Any suggestions regarding guides, flies, gear, best spots, etc.???  Any information you can share is appreciated. Hi Black caddis (#18 – #20), tan caddis (#14) and Trico’s (#20) are the main hatches at that time of the year.  You need to call the different shops in Fort Smith to schedule a guide OR you can rent a boat and do your own trip.  Usually people fish the first 13 miles of the Big Horn below Yellowtail Dam.  There are three fishing access locations 1. After Bay at Fort Smith, 2. Three Mile, and 3. Big Horn (13 mile).  Usually people float from either After Bay or Three Mile to Big Horn access.  There are many places along the way to stop and wade fish. I’m not sure what the stream flows will be in September but last week the river was fairly high and moving right along.  There was still great fishing.  To monitor the stream flows for the Big Horn AND the rest of Montana check out the Current Stream Flow report on the net at http://wwwdmthln.cr.usgs.gov/www/rt/rt_table.html Good luck and Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

A good place to stay on the Big Horn is the Cottonwood Camp.  They are located below Ft. Smith near Three Mile. There units are small campers or converted camper bus.  Shower and store facilities at the site.  Cost was $10.00 per person per night.  Couldn’t beat the cost or the hospitality.  Enjoy!!

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Al, I’m going to be in Bozeman next weekend, Friday thru Monday, (August 1-4).  Can you recommend a guide for nearby waters?  How about flies for this time of year? Thanks, Bob McAnulty PS:  Will you also forward address, phone number, hours info on your shop? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Going to fish the Bighorn in September.  Any suggestions regarding guides, flies, gear, best spots, etc.???  Any information you can share is appreciated. Hi Black caddis (#18 – #20), tan caddis (#14) and Trico’s (#20) are the main hatches at that time of the year.  You need to call the different shops in Fort Smith to schedule a guide OR you can rent a boat and do your own trip.  Usually people fish the first 13 miles of the Big Horn below Yellowtail Dam.  There are three fishing access locations 1. After Bay at Fort Smith, 2. Three Mile, and 3. Big Horn (13 mile).  Usually people float from either After Bay or Three Mile to Big Horn access.  There are many places along the way to stop and wade fish. I’m not sure what the stream flows will be in September but last week the river was fairly high and moving right along.  There was still great fishing.  To monitor the stream flows for the Big Horn AND the rest of Montana check out the Current Stream Flow report on the net at http://wwwdmthln.cr.usgs.gov/www/rt/rt_table.html Good luck and Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Going to fish the Bighorn in September.  Any suggestions regarding guides, flies, gear, best spots, etc.???  Any information you can share is appreciated. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Going to fish the Bighorn in September.  Any suggestions regarding guides, flies, gear, best spots, etc.???  Any information you can share is appreciated.

Hi Black caddis (#18 – #20), tan caddis (#14) and Trico’s (#20) are the main hatches at that time of the year.  You need to call the different shops in Fort Smith to schedule a guide OR you can rent a boat and do your own trip.  Usually people fish the first 13 miles of the Big Horn below Yellowtail Dam.  There are three fishing access locations 1. After Bay at Fort Smith, 2. Three Mile, and 3. Big Horn (13 mile).  Usually people float from either After Bay or Three Mile to Big Horn access.  There are many places along the way to stop and wade fish. I’m not sure what the stream flows will be in September but last week the river was fairly high and moving right along.  There was still great fishing.  To monitor the stream flows for the Big Horn AND the rest of Montana check out the Current Stream Flow report on the net at http://wwwdmthln.cr.usgs.gov/www/rt/rt_table.html Good luck and Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Question:

There is a fly tying cd (perhaps 2) available in both Mac and PC-compatible format (but not necessarily the same cd). Anyway, has anyone know of or have seen a reputable mail order firm that offers these at a discount? — dept of math/cs ut martin

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There is a fly tying cd (perhaps 2) available in both Mac and PC-compatible format (but not necessarily the same cd). Anyway, has anyone know of or have seen a reputable mail order firm that offers these at a discount?

Hi Jim I think the CD you are looking for is Tying Flies for Trout by Dick Stewart and Farrow Allen.  It’s available through Bob Mariotts at 800-535-6633 (orders) or 800-367-2299 (fax orders).  Also get his catalog, it’s the most incredible catalog/information source you’ll ever see. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Question:

I have a Tempo and camp/fish every other weekend. I love it!  It is a great car but space is somewhat limited.  I’m sure the car can handle the drive but you will have to pack wisely.  Space is adequate for 2 on short (1 week) journeys, but I suspect you may run out of places to store your gear if you will be out longer than that. Jim

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[ Article crossposted from rec.travel.usa-canada ] [ Author was Ray F Pero ] My wife and I will be travelling around the Yukon from late July until late August this year.  We will fly into Whitehorse, rent a car and drive around the territory.  We also hope to hook up with some local (inexpensive) outfitters for a guided wilderness experience. I need answers to three questions to help me plan our trip. 1) The best rental car deal appears to be for a Ford Tempo.  Would a Tempo be good enough for the drive up the Dempster Highway to Inuvik and back? 2) We intend to camp along the way to save some money on accomodations.   How much can I expect to pay per night at the campgrounds?  Is it necessary to reserve space ahead of time or can I just show up? 3) Many of the trips listed in the brochures I’ve received in the mail regarding wilderness adventure travel are prohibitively expensive.  Would there be any local guides who we could hire by the day for a more reasonable amount of money?  I don’t expect anyone to carry my gear or cook for me, I simply want someone who knows the local terrain and conditions and who could add an element of safety to the trip.  I’m hoping I can save money with the added benefit of tailoring the trip to meet our wishes.  How much would a local guide charge per day for such a trip?  We will bring all of our own equipment (except possibly for a canoe should we decide upon a river trip). Any help with the above questions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

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[ Article crossposted from rec.travel.usa-canada ] [ Author was Ray F Pero ] My wife and I will be travelling around the Yukon from late July until late August this year.  We will fly into Whitehorse, rent a car and drive around the territory.  We also hope to hook up with some local (inexpensive) outfitters for a guided wilderness experience. I need answers to three questions to help me plan our trip. 1) The best rental car deal appears to be for a Ford Tempo.  Would a Tempo be good enough for the drive up the Dempster Highway to Inuvik and back?

Yes, I think you would make it.  It is a really well kept gravel road in comparison to any gravel roads in the lower 48, and high clearance is not a requirement.  Make sure to bring at least one if not more spare tires in good shape and full of air as the gravel really eats up the tires. The only challenge on this road is the remoteness should anything go wrong. I blew one tire and it was shredded by the time I got the car stopped, the gravel is very unforgiving.  Also slow WAY down and/or stop and pull over as far as you can to the right whenever a truck is oncoming as they throw lots of gravel and don’t slow down for you.  Much better to take a gravel spray stopped than moving.  Also stop in Dawson before you start the trip and check on the current conditions at the visitors center.  They have nice videos to preview the trip and really get you excited and informed before you go.  Also plan on more days than you think for the trip. 2) We intend to camp along the way to save some money on accomodations.   How much can I expect to pay per night at the campgrounds?  Is it necessary to reserve space ahead of time or can I just show up?

No need to reserve space, there is no overcrowding, although if you are worried about getting a choice campsite then stop early in the day, like 4 or 5pm instead of 8,9, or 10pm.  Although all the campsites are great and firewood is included in your self registration fee.  Be sure to bring some sort of axe though as it is not pre-chopped. 3) Many of the trips listed in the brochures I’ve received in the mail regarding wilderness adventure travel are prohibitively expensive.  Would there be any local guides who we could hire by the day for a more reasonable amount of money?  I don’t expect anyone to carry my gear or cook for me, I simply want someone who knows the local terrain and conditions and who could add an element of safety to the trip.  I’m hoping I can save money with the added benefit of tailoring the trip to meet our wishes.  How much would a local guide charge per day for such a trip?  We will bring all of our own equipment (except possibly for a canoe should we decide upon a river trip).

Local guides are definitely available; just look for flyers in resteraunts and on posts, in sporting goods stores, asking around, etc. They are definitely the best way to go IMHO because they are usually locals who have lived there for a good long time and have a lot of character.  My personal recommendation is to plan to spend some quality time in Teslin, south of Whitehorse.  Teslin Lake is large, but provides excellent fishing opportunities, especially for Lake Trout.  There is also great fishing in the streams that feed the lake, and many challenging hiking trails.  I’m sure even canoeing would be a possibility.  We arrived in Teslin and wanted to fish for Lake Trout, found a flyer describing a guide, at the general store, went to the resteraunt and found a pay phone inside. We proceeded to make the call and it turned out the guide was in the resteraunt and answered on his mobile phone.  It was hilarious.  So we booked him for the next day and we had a blast.  I would definetly recommend him and if you would like his info I may be able to find it at home.  He also had all kinds of tips for the rest of our trip.  He informed us of where the locals tell people to fish and where the locals fish.  He also did guided hiking, rafting, etc. Well worth the $, and much cheaper than an outfitter. Any help with the above questions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Have a great time; I wish I was going again. Feel free to email me with more questions. Ken Koca — Lockheed Martin Astronautics   (303) 977-5464 Mail Stop: T-3725 P.O. Box 179                   "Don’t think about Denver, CO  80201              memories, make them."

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Question:

The original remark may be humorous to a man, but not to many of the women who may be exploring fly fishing on the internet. This type of attitude and mind set on the stream or anywhere else is not always comfortable to everyone.

I dont’s intend to speak for everyone nor to make everyone comfortable.  All I know is that I only read one response (yours) that took offense at my little joke.  I know that there are quite a few women that read this group and none of them seemed to take offense at it either.  I did, however, see at least one response from a woman that takes offense that the industry seems intent on selling equipment "designed" specifically for women.  I contend that trying to turn flyfishing into a non-gender neutral sport is more damaging then my little joke could ever be.  I’d also like to believe that a sense of humor is a gender neutral attribute as well. — John Fereira Isis Distributed Systems – Ithaca, NY

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The original remark may be humorous to a man, but not to many of the women who may be exploring fly fishing on the internet. This type of attitude and mind set on the stream or anywhere else is not always comfortable to everyone.

Uh Oh, someone’s going to save us all from the evils of politically incorrectness.  Lighten up. Jerry Cobb Nashville, TN

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Lighten up?…NO I DON’T THINK SO….saying something like tits on the grips is not funny, it’s not mature, and it doesn’t belong here.

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Seems to be any rod that can be taken apart has a male AND a female end!

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 guess some women just, want to be "Fashion Barbie"…

I’d like to point out that women have been less than pleased with the manufacturers who have tried to make them into "Fashion Barbie."   It has to be the most negative comments I’ve hear at women’s flyfishing club meeting.  Most, being conservationists, are into greens and browns and wouldn’t be caught dead in pink or purple on a stream.

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You ought to see what has happened to the diving equipment industry. All these wild colors for wet suits, fins, masks, snorkles, tanks, regulators, knives, gauges, bc’s. You’re supposed to be color co- ordinated for the fish! An then you go down…..guess what happens to all those colors at 80 feet? Yup, unless you have a strobe flash on all that fancy equipment, it all looks the same.  :) What you are seeing in ffing equipment is the same thing except it doesn’t go away when it goes into the woods. Bees and yellow- jackets do like yellow and pink, though. :OOO– Bill Fashion plate of leftover GI olive drab equipment…..

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The original remark may be humorous to a man, but not to many of the women who may be exploring fly fishing on the internet. This type of attitude and mind set on the stream or anywhere else is not always comfortable to everyone.

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Your remark regarding women’s rods possibly having breasts is rather ignorant…one would like to believe that even you would see that there is no place for that sort of comment in the fly fishing community. Good grief, are you suggesting that the "fly fishing community" is humorless? You know, now that I consider a good protion of the posts

Sexism, bigotry, and general boorishness is NOT considered humor in a public place.  This is a public forum, not the locker room.  Some humor will always be appropriate in the locker room and nowhere else.  It might serve some of you well to learn when and where such humor is appropriate. —— Mike Tucker-  The Virtual Flyshop Web: http://www.flyshop.com Phone: 970/225-6445

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The largest diameter grip I ever made on a fly rod was for a woman. The lady in question had tendonitus (sp?) in her hand and the small diameter grips on her factory made rods made it much worse. After using the rod I built her, she came back and had me replace the grips on all of her rods. Trying to generalize by gender is, IMNSHO, Bullsh*t. — Phil Koenig Manhattan Custom Tackle Ltd. http://fishdoc.com./ "I’m the boss,so WHATEVER I say is OK"

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Your remark regarding women’s rods possibly having breasts is rather ignorant…one would like to believe that even you would see that there is no place for that sort of comment in the fly fishing community.

Oh give me a break.  It was a joke, actually one I stole from George Carlin from his observation in describing a brand of womens cigarettes. I agree with the other person that mentioned that creating a flyrod for women is just a bit insulting.  Flyfishing is as a gender neutral sport as you can get and I don’t understand why people are trying to turn it into something otherwise.  Actually, I do.  Equipment manufacturers are just trying to sell more merchandise.  Women step into their waders the same way I do and can fart around on the stream as well as the next guy. — John Fereira Isis Distributed Systems – Ithaca, NY

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sounds like hype to me…a little sand paper will make the grip smaller…I can almost live with the mauve vest, and the burgandy waders, but this idea that fishing has to be *marketed* to women seems like an insult to women to me.  When Orvis says "here you go women, a flyrod just for you", they sound as if they are saying all our other rods are for men and not for you. It’s a nothing but an insulting gimmick in my mind DAMN RIGHT, Craig.. All Orvis did was put on a smaller grip..Like ALL women have little hands (like Frenchmen;)). I don’t think so!!!! If I can handle a SAGE 9′8Wt .. and 7+" of real man;).. like most REAL outdoors women can.. and have done for years…It is down right insulting! It’s like Walker says,"A cash flow runs through it". By the way, I have brown waders and a green vest, I look like a cute little tree on the stream,(stealth…it’s an Art!); not like "Barney". I guess some women just, want to be "Fashion Barbie"…

Who knows.  Maybe there will be a market for "Catskill Barbie" and "Catskill Ken". I personally want to catch fish..that’s why it’s called fishing….that’s why I’m out there, and none of my equipment has a cute little white "O" on it!! ….and NO,John F. the rods don’t have little breasts on them..the grips are still the basic "penis" shape, they have always been… Tickles, &"Bear "hugs for Charley

And as someone pointed out awhile back,  "queer" flyfishers like to hold the rod with the other hand because it feels like someone else is holding it. In flyfishing size doesn’t matter. — John Fereira Isis Distributed Systems – Ithaca, NY

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Your remark regarding women’s rods possibly having breasts is rather ignorant…one would like to believe that even you would see that there is no place for that sort of comment in the fly fishing community.

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Sounds like hype to me…a little sand paper will make the grip smaller…I can almost live with the mauve vest, and the burgandy waders, but this idea that fishing has to be *marketed* to women seems like an insult to women to me.  When Orvis says "here you go women, a flyrod just for you", they sound as if they are saying all our other rods are for men and not for you. It’s a nothing but an insulting gimmick in my mind

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Your remark regarding women’s rods possibly having breasts is rather ignorant…one would like to believe that even you would see that there is no place for that sort of comment in the fly fishing community.

Good grief, are you suggesting that the "fly fishing community" is humorless? You know, now that I consider a good protion of the posts to this group you may be right. It seems that the computerized fly fisherman spending time on this group are endowed with an excess of selfimportance and no fun whatsoever. How about we all take a giant step back and a look at the big picture. We are really just a small, insignificant piece of that picture.  Just enjoy you days astream and not make it into more than it is – fishing.

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Sounds like hype to me…a little sand paper will make the grip smaller…I can almost live with the mauve vest, and the burgandy waders, but this idea that fishing has to be *marketed* to women seems like an insult to women to me.  When Orvis says "here you go women, a flyrod just for you", they sound as if they are saying all our other rods are for men and not for you. It’s a nothing but an insulting gimmick in my mind

DAMN RIGHT, Craig.. All Orvis did was put on a smaller grip..Like ALL women have little hands (like Frenchmen;)). I don’t think so!!!! If I can handle a SAGE 9′8Wt .. and 7+" of real man;).. like most REAL outdoors women can.. and have done for years…It is down right insulting! It’s like Walker says,"A cash flow runs through it". By the way, I have brown waders and a green vest, I look like a cute little tree on the stream,(stealth…it’s an Art!); not like "Barney". I guess some women just, want to be "Fashion Barbie"…I personally want to catch fish..that’s why it’s called fishing….that’s why I’m out there, and none of my equipment has a cute little white "O" on it!! ….and NO,John F. the rods don’t have little breasts on them..the grips are still the basic "penis" shape, they have always been… Tickles, &"Bear "hugs for Charley …..N.

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.Your remark regarding women’s rods possibly having breasts is rather ignorant…one would like to believe that even you would see that there is no place for that sort of comment in the fly fishing community.

First Day being a P.C. Cop in Owl Creek…Huh? Honey, if you think John’s comment was ignorant..maybe you should haul your ass over to R.O.F.F.PC ONLY!!! or R.O.F.F.H. (humorless);…  (Tim, these weren’t on your list…please add.) Some of us aren’t PC on the P.C., but don’t worry, after we die, we will burn in Hell….Remember, life’s a bitch, and 7X tippet breaks….. Tickles;) …N.  

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(PWullenweb) writes: A few brands offer a women’s version (e.g. Orvis’ Mary Orvis Marbury), but I’m not sure if there is a significant or logical reason to go with those other than the lighter weight.

Th only difference between the Orvis "MOM" rod and the Orvis "Trout" rod is the handle.  Both are 8 ft. 6 wt. fullflex rods made out of the same blank.  The MOM rod has a handle that has been turned down for smaller hands.   You would be best served by casting the appropriate rods for the conditions you will fish until you find one you like, and if you want a smaller handle on it, any custom rod maker can turn the handle smaller for just a few $.  Size and weight is not a problem. All three of my kids started with 8 1/2 to 9  foot rods when they were between 9 and 11 years old.                                                            Dan Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

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Hi Pluck, The ‘womens rod’ is a silly idea. I don’t believe that a rods purpose or application changes with gender. The rods purpose is to cast a line and play a fish. Seems as silly as a ’soft periwinkle’ fishing vest. My ideas on rods are governed by the fact that I build bamboo but for trout a 7 1/2 ft 4 or 5 in a fast action is a good place to start. For smallmouth bass I woul choose an 8ft parabolic action rod for a  5/6 weight. Good fishing, A.J. Thramer

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I’m new to fly fishing and am looking to buy a rod.  A few brands offer a women’s version (e.g. Orvis’ Mary Orvis Marbury), but I’m not sure if there is a significant or logical reason to go with those other than the lighter weight.  I’d like to make this rod somewhat of an "all arounder", at least for the present.  Most of the time I’ll be on a small upstate NY lake, fishing from shore or in a boat for panfish, trout, as well as smallmouth and largemouth bass.  I’d like though to be able to take this rod to fish in some nearby streams.  Info on length, line weight and/or model would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance. Puck Wullenweber Ithaca, NY

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Pluck, Women can fly fish better then men and its not the rod!! I suggest a week vacation in July, Aug. or Sept at the Hawley MT. Ranch, where you can Fly Fish, ride horese,hike or just read a book, Its just 25 miles north of Yellowstone Park.   We do a lot of things other than fishing. Just ask!!! BBlewett

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I’m new to fly fishing and am looking to buy a rod.  A few brands offer a women’s version (e.g. Orvis’ Mary Orvis Marbury), but I’m not sure if there is a significant or logical reason to go with those other than the lighter weight.  I’d like to make this rod somewhat of an "all arounder", at least for the present.  Most of the time I’ll be on a small upstate NY lake, fishing from shore or in a boat for panfish, trout, as well as smallmouth and largemouth bass.  I’d like though to be able to take this rod to fish in some nearby streams.  Info on length, line weight and/or model would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance. Puck Wullenweber Ithaca, NY

I think lighter weight is one critical factor, the other being the size of the grip. Rods not designed for women may have grips that are larger than you are comfortable with (depending of course on whether you have large hands.) If you can find a comfortable grip you can use it – most quality rods are pretty light anyways.

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The possible difference with woman’s rods would be in the grip.  Possibly smaller than normal.  I would suspect that it is generally hype and marketing.  Try both and let me know.   For suggestions for a rod, I would suggest a 5 or 6 weight.  You are asking a lot for a rod to do all you want it to do and still be fun.   I lean towards the 5wt for the fun factor with trout and panfish.  You would have to use small poppers & deerhair bugs with the 5 wt due to the wind resistance.  Also, make sure the rod is 9′. If your starting out you’ll ask for 1 rod to do it all.  After a few years thought, you’ll own about 4 rods (trust me, I’ve been there)!

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I’m new to fly fishing and am looking to buy a rod.  A few brands offer a women’s version (e.g. Orvis’ Mary Orvis Marbury), but I’m not sure if there is a significant or logical reason to go with those other than the lighter weight.

<snip Hi, My recommendation would be for you to locate a reputable local dealer and cast as many rods as possible in your price range. The rod that ends up working the best for you may or may not be a women’s version. I think it’s much more important how the fly rod works than what it says on the label. I hope this helps,   Alan.   Alan Barnard   Kiene’s Fly Shop   Sacramento, California   WWW Fly Tyer   http://www.ns.net/~barnard

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Pluck, Women can fly fish better then men and its not the rod!! I suggest a week vacation in July, Aug. or Sept at the Hawley MT. Ranch, where you can Fly Fish, ride horese,hike or just read a book, Its just 25 miles north of Yellowstone Park.   We do a lot of things other than fishing. Just ask!!!

Womens fly rods?  What, do they have little breasts on them or something? Just to clarify a couple of things.  The name was "Puck", not "Pluck". Since I also live in Ithaca I know that we can flyfish (a five minute walk for me to the nearest stream from my front door), ride horses (there’s a B&B place about 1000′ down the road of me that is a horse ranch), hike (across my driveway and 100′ in the other direction from the B&B are trailheads which go into a wildlife reserve, and I can read a book just about anywhere.  I’ll let you sleep on my couch for half of what your ranch charges. — John Fereira Isis Distributed Systems – Ithaca, NY

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Question:

Does anyone know anything about fly fishing for stripers and blues at Rye Playland (or anywhere else in Westchester County for that matter)?  I live in the area and would appreciate any info.  thanks —   floete

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If you live there you already know you need a boat…. If that is no problem then you will find very good fishing from Scotch caps as far east as you want to run. The best times for me were on a dropping tide near the caps or a high tide just about everywhere else. Clousers work well, poppers when blues are around and big deceivers too. Watch for fire worm hatch in June/July. For Playland the breakwall was good. Use a sinking tip and have fun ! "The true angler is always content to fish alone" Brian Di Carlo

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Question:

I am new to fly fishing and need advice on what type and brand of rod is best to buy. I will probably be doing most of my fishing on the rivers and streams of New Zealand,

Why don’t you try an E-mail to Simon Lusk who maintains the New Zealand flyfishing web page.  I don’t have his email address right now but I’m sure you can get it on the Web. Mike Ray Atlanta, GA Cashiers, NC

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(John Birnbaum) writes: I am new to fly fishing and need advice on what type and brand of rod is best to buy. I will probably be doing most of my fishing on the rivers and streams of New Zealand, I don’t know whether this has any affect on the rod I buy.

Personally I fish with the Orvis PM-10 865-4 ($485) which is an 8 1/2 ft 5wt. 4 piece rod.  There is now a 9 foot version of this rod available which will give you a little better mending, but I like the one I have. This is a great fast action rod with a delicate tip for the South Island and many of the streams & rivers of the north.  If you’re going to be fishing the rainbow runs up the feeder streams from the big lakes in the North Island, you might want a 9′ 7wt for some of the big streamers used there.  The gentleman I teach our schools with, Dean Schubert, has spent 12 months out of the last 5 years fishing the South Island of New Zealand and he prefers the PM-10 906-4 (9′ 6wt.4 piece $485).  A 4 piece rod in  8 1/2  to 9 ft. length is a good choice especially if you’re trekking though the country.  I wouldn’t suggest a rod lighter than a 5 due to the size of the trout and the need to be able to pressure the fish authoritatively at times (tough to do with a 2, 3, or 4 wt.).  Another rod that works well and is a medium fast action is the Orvis HLS RM "Spring Creek Traveler ($300 – 9ft. 5wt. that really casts a 6 wt. line).The 25 yr. "any way you can break it" guarantee doesn’t hurt either. As always you should try to cast the rods before you buy if at all possible.                 Good Luck, and I’ll try not to be too jealous of your fishing opportunities,                                                                Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Schools Dan Gracia                                                               Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools If you kill that big fish you can’t catch ‘em again.  So what if they eat other fish?  If you kill the big ones there will only be little ones left (funny how that works!).

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I am new to fly fishing and need advice on what type and brand of rod is best to buy. I will probably be doing most of my fishing on the rivers and streams of New Zealand, I don’t know whether this has any affect on the rod I buy. Thanks, Dylan. I would think about Orvis fly rods. I know they are a bit uppyish but the product is very good. You can’t beat the 25 year return policy. I own an Orvis Henry’s Fork with a Battenkill 5/6 reel it’s great.

I would think about a SAGE 389-3LL (lifetime warranty!), 3piece for better transport which might be great for longer hikes or helico= pter transports in NZ. The 3 wt line is delicate enough not to spook the fish but is heavy enough to carry a trout fly well (except = very heavy streamers). The 8ft9inch length is great for roll-casting. It has a medium fast action with lots of power and delivers fl= ies on long leaders with ease and will protect your tippet if you get the real big ones which are native to NZ. You can feel the loa= ding of the rod very nicely, which does not mean that the rod is whippy or slow. I fish it with a 3wtDT/F line (Cortland, of course)=

Response:

I am new to fly fishing and need advice on what type and brand of rod is best to buy. I will probably be doing most of my fishing on the rivers and streams of New Zealand, I don’t know whether this has any affect on the rod I buy. Thanks, Dylan.

Response:

I am new to fly fishing and need advice on what type and brand of rod is best to buy. I will probably be doing most of my fishing on the rivers and streams of New Zealand, I don’t know whether this has any affect on the rod I buy. Thanks, Dylan.

I would think about Orvis fly rods. I know they are a bit uppyish but the product is very good. You can’t beat the 25 year return policy. I own an Orvis Henry’s Fork with a Battenkill 5/6 reel it’s great.

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Dylan,     I have never fished NZ before but I would say that your best bet for the trout that I have read about is a 3 – 7 wt rod ( ah heck, get one of each ). Use the lighter rods on the spring creeks and the heavier rods for big water and windy conditions. I’d say either a 3, 6 or a 4, 7 combo would be nice and I would lean to the 3, 6 end. If you could only have one rod I would choose a 5 wt with 8-9 ft length.   As far as brands go, I would look to the British Commonwealth if NZ is a member because a rod imported from the US is going to be very expensive. Hardy and Partridge make bamboo and graphite fly rods and of course Hardy makes wonerful reels that are advertised as lifetime guaranteed. Partridge also makes great hooks. They are expensive here in the US but I pay for them because I like them.   From the US Orvis, Sage, Thomas and Thomas, Loomis, Scott et al all make great products. I personally use Orvis and Sage products. Good Luck Chuck Abbott

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