Question:

But seriously, someone once told me that Greg LeMonde was accidentally shot while he was fly fishing.  This true? I believe he was hunting birds with his brother.

He was turkey hunting. JM

Response:

Well done Mike!  I don’t know bout Uncle Sam teaching him to shoot Indians at three hundred yards, but I wonder who taught him to shoot himself so comprehensively in the foot!!  Gillaroo

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[snip] I can hear an occasional rustling in the brush.  Maybe hear a bird or was it a bat flying by.

Or maybe it was a 30/06 whizzing by… /daytripper (maybe I should paint my vest blaze orange?)

Response:

An archived article by Old Rupe indicates that he often fishes in Michigan.  And it got me thinking… There are those days.  I’ve made it to the stream somehow in spite of my work schedule. It’s before daybreak and I am shivering on the tailgate of my truck.  I can hear an occasional rustling in the brush.  Maybe hear a bird or was it a bat flying by.  What is very obvious is the sound of the river and the anticipation of excitement.  A bit of starlight or moonlight provides just enough to see the outline of the trees.  These are the moments when the imagination sometimes runs wild and suddenly, I begin wondering about those sightings of the Michigan sasquatch.  Oh s**t, what was that?  Did I just see an anthropoidal form emerge from the shadowed thicket?  Or is it Old Rupe at three hundred yards trying to get a good look at my face? Mu in Michigan

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Maybe hear a bird or was it a bat flying by. Or maybe it was a 30/06 whizzing by… /daytripper (maybe I should paint my vest blaze orange?)

Oh, Mr. T, you menfolks is always talking about your guns and what size it is   d;-) But seriously, someone once told me that Greg LeMonde was accidentally shot while he was fly fishing.  This true? Mu

Response:

But seriously, someone once told me that Greg LeMonde was accidentally shot while he was fly fishing.  This true?

I believe he was hunting birds with his brother. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

Question:

I came up with a great new sport. It makes Fishing look like kids stuff 1) Get up into an airplane Piper cub will do and fly over someones ranch where they have cows. Get a large grappling hook and sharpen all the barbs. fly down towards the cows and swing the hook behind them. If you hook one ty it off onto one of the wing struts and gain altitude. I call this "beefing"

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Uh oh – beware the Noll troll who wrote, in part: … It makes Fishing look like kids stuff.

I call this "beefing." << -tran

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I came up with a great new sport. It makes Fishing look like kids stuff 1) Get up into an airplane Piper cub will do and fly over someones ranch where they have cows. Get a large grappling hook and sharpen all the barbs. fly down towards the cows and swing the hook behind them. If you hook one ty it off onto one of the wing struts and gain altitude. I call this "beefing" Hey Nimrod! Here’s a novel idea! Forget the cows!!!  Try doing this on jetskiers! A target that is moving would take more skill. Cows would be far too easy anyone could do that! Your going to have to work on a new name though…….Bummer !      Steve

Right on!!!

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Question:

How many of you use a whipped loop on your fly line to which you connect your looped leaders? Seems like this makes a lot of sense … yet the books don’t really discuss it … at least the books I have read … tried it for shooting head system … works well there …. John

Response:

How many of you use a whipped loop on your fly line to which you connect your looped leaders?

<SNIP You are describing the NAIL KNOT!

<SNIP I didn’t think he was describing a nail knot.  I thought he was talking about creating some sort of ‘loop’ in the end of his fly line, not tying a loop onto the end of the line with a nail knot. Could just be my misinterpretation though (certainly wouldn’t be the first time). Dave If we didn’t have some bad days, they would call it ‘catching’, not ‘fishing’.

Response:

You are describing the NAIL KNOT! It has always bothered me that the same knot gets different names depending upon how it is used. Nail knot Whip finish Snell They all are the same knot, even if made differently.

"Whipping" is NOT a nail knot.   It involves using a smaller diameter line or thread to secure a doubled-back portion of the main line. [Large lines (what non-sailors call "ropes") are whipped with heavy twine.]   In the case of whipping a loop in the end of a flyline, it involves stripping off a section of the coating, then folding it back and "whipping" the overlap with rod-wrapping or fly-tying thread. The "whip finish" refers to the way you end "whipping,"   It is not the same as a nail knot, either!   (See page 102, "Practical Fishing Knots II," Sosin and Kreh, 1991, Lyons and Burford, New York, NY) Bob Scott Ex-Navy

Response:

How many of you use a whipped loop on your fly line to which you connect your looped leaders?

Me. Then loop to a surgeons loop in the bimini of 6′ of 20# flourocarbon. It isn’t a nail not, by the way. Capt. Gary S. Colecchio West Palm Beach "Lie ? Me ? Never!  No, no, no, the truth is far too much fun !" – Captain Hook

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To others as well. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You are describing the NAIL KNOT! It has always bothered me that the same knot gets different names depending upon how it is used. Nail knot Whip finish Snell They all are the same knot, even if made differently. "Whipping" is NOT a nail knot.   It involves using a smaller diameter line or thread to secure a doubled-back portion of the main line. [Large lines (what non-sailors call "ropes") are whipped with heavy twine.]   In the case of whipping a loop in the end of a flyline, it involves stripping off a section of the coating, then folding it back and "whipping" the overlap with rod-wrapping or fly-tying thread. The "whip finish" refers to the way you end "whipping,"   It is not the same as a nail knot, either!   (See page 102, "Practical Fishing Knots II," Sosin and Kreh, 1991, Lyons and Burford, New York, NY)

These do describe the same mathematical topological entity as a nail knot. When you ignore such properties as the size of the various lines or ropes, the fundamental structure of all these knots is the same even though they may superficially look different. Bill

Response:

Hi John, Give it a try and see if it works out for you. I have seen it on many anglers lines that have come though the stores that I have worked. 1) You can turn back the flyline and wip a loop with the core. 2) You can use some dacron line for the lopop too. 3) You can use a factory braided mono loop or make your own braided mono loop. I try to test all the different knots, connections and systems to see how they work. What you or I choose to use ourselves is meaningless as there are so many ways to do all of this. PS: I prefer to ‘needle nail knot’ the mono butt of my leader to the fly line and I do see it is very popular for fresh water fishing in the California.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How many of you use a whipped loop on your fly line to which you connect your looped leaders? Seems like this makes a lot of sense … yet the books don’t really discuss it … at least the books I have read … tried it for shooting head system … works well there …. John

Response:

How many of you use a whipped loop on your fly line to which you connect your looped leaders? Seems like this makes a lot of sense … yet the books don’t really discuss it … at least the books I have read … tried it for shooting head system … works well there …. John

You are describing the NAIL KNOT! It has always bothered me that the same knot gets different names depending upon how it is used. Nail knot Whip finish Snell They all are the same knot, even if made differently. Bill

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Question:

        choose from among the well known sources, such as kaufmann’s, dan bailey, orvis, umpqua, ll bean, etc.; or, suggest your own favorite individual tier.

I don’t know who makes the best flies, but I was intrigued a couple of years ago by a tiny note in the upper corner of a page full of flies in an Orvis catalogue.  The note stated clearly and unambiguously that all Orvis flies are made in America except for those that are imported.  This eased my mind considerably as it is my policy to ALWAYS buy American….except when I want an import.

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drinking, the bdt society now solicits both members and input regarding this vital question:  which commercial house produces the highest quality pre-tied flies?

What? You want me to quit bying 85 dollar chicken necks from people who choose to live in the ugly part of Colorado?`This almost sounds unamerican. Seriously I seldom buy commercialy tied flies, but when I do it gives me another excuse to do business with those great folks at Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone.It is kinda cool to do business with a shop that sells flies only in useful sizes( none of that such and such patterns in sizes 2-22 etc.) Big Dale

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Every time I buy flies from someone else, I am unsatisfied with them.  If you want it done right, do it yourself. Pete C

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You are right Pete and if you still don’t like them blame the wife. Ernie Harrison Like to make fly-fishing stuff?  See: http://users.ccnet.com/~emh/ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Every time I buy flies from someone else, I am unsatisfied with them.  If you want it done right, do it yourself. Pete C

Response:

(snip) Well, I qualify on both counts but I’m afraid you guys would steal my boots and make me drink Canadian beer and American whiskey.

        a fate far better than you deserve, illini swine!!!         god, i keep forgetting. ahswaretuhgawd i’ll get them mailed next week. wayno

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         only wastrels and louts need apply for membership.  waldo, that means you and jeffey miller are pre-approved. muchas gracias, senor. we will wear those badges with honor this afternoon as we’re fishing all those grandfather watershed streams you love so much  :) go brookies, waldo

I just bought some sand eels ’cause I was too lazy to mess with the epoxy.  I guess I qualify too.  I hope the D’s still let me fish with them. Peter

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Peter I-buy-most-of-my-flies Charles scribbles: <<I just bought some sand eels ’cause I was too lazy to mess with the epoxy.  I guess I qualify too.  I hope the D’s still let me fish with them. No way, deprived one.  You ain’t fishin’ in *my* water with no stinkin’ sand eel.  Do you realize that you have been lumped into the same class as wayno, Pamlico Jim, Ken Fortenberry, Jeff never mind.  Can I join your club, amigo.  I promise to never ever Long Lost Louie Dave LaCourse

Response:

I just bought some sand eels ’cause I was too lazy to mess with the epoxy.  I guess I qualify too.  I hope the D’s still let me fish with them.

I don’t know about them there store-bought sand eels – they *might* work if depth-charge line. But as long as you bring the Sleeman’s, I’m sure both of us D’s will be happy to fish with you, Peter ;^) /daytripper (It’s gonna happen! I’m rigged for adventure once again!)

Response:

wayno –  pssst…waldo tied some flies in my presence…it was a horrifying experience…thought you’d want to know…btw, i generally forego belonging to any club that would have me as a member…gotta have some standards, don’t ya know…however, given the quality of this group, i’m proud to be a charter member…just don’t be askin fer no dues… me and walt been fishin for two days and are headin out again this morning…sorry you couldn’t make it… jeff – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         founded in order to preserve more spare time for serious drinking, the bdt society now solicits both members and input regarding this vital question:  which commercial house produces the highest quality pre-tied flies?         choose from among the well known sources, such as kaufmann’s, dan bailey, orvis, umpqua, ll bean, etc.; or, suggest your own favorite individual tier.         only wastrels and louts need apply for membership.  waldo, that means you and jeffey miller are pre-approved.         all responses are greatly appreciated by the charter member, yours truly wayno

Response:

Harrison) writes: choose from among the well known sources, such as kaufmann’s, dan bailey, orvis, umpqua, ll bean, etc.; or, suggest your own favorite individual tier.

Sam Surrey, from Michigan. Wayne Knight (remove nospam to respond via mail) Expert in the creation of  wind knots and tailing loops.

Response:

        only wastrels and louts need apply for membership.  waldo, that means you and jeffey miller are pre-approved.

muchas gracias, senor. we will wear those badges with honor this afternoon as we’re fishing all those grandfather watershed streams you love so much  :) go brookies, waldo — Ezflyfish.com                 Blue Ridge Book Gallery Quality Gear & Service        Used & Out-of-Print Books http://www.ezflyfish.com      http://www.abebooks.com/home/BLUEBOOKS P.O. Box 5112  Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828)963-5001

Response:

which commercial house produces the highest quality pre-tied flies?

The obvious answer is http://www.ezflyfish.com Before the grand opening of that preeminent establishment this bdt’er thought Feather-Craft Fly Fishing of St. Louis had the best quality. http://www.flyfishamerica.com/Ads/National/FeatherCraft98JF.html I find that I’ve been at this long enough not to need to mail order many flies anymore. I have the "basics" and I like to drop a dime in the local fly shop wherever I happen to be to pick up local favorites and replenish the "basics".         only wastrels and louts need apply for membership.  

Well, I qualify on both counts but I’m afraid you guys would steal my boots and make me drink Canadian beer and American whiskey. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Wayno, the misled, writes:

<<founded in order to preserve more spare time for serious drinking, the bdt society now solicits both members and input regarding this vital question:  which commercial house produces the highest quality pre-tied flies? Buy?  Buy?  You can drink while tying, my friend.  That’s half the fun.  Buy flies instead of tying them?  Sacrilege, I tell you, sacrilege!  Buy instead of spending countless hours in front of your vice using up thousands of dollars worth of materials?  Buy instead of getting deer hair clippings, herl, feathers etc all over the rug? Buy instead of providing your puppy a tasty saddle to munch on? (I like Kaufman’s, with LL Bean a very close second.  Go to www.kman.com.  Tell ‘em Louie sent ya!) Louie

Response:

        founded in order to preserve more spare time for serious drinking, the bdt society now solicits both members and input regarding this vital question:  which commercial house produces the highest quality pre-tied flies?         choose from among the well known sources, such as kaufmann’s, dan bailey, orvis, umpqua, ll bean, etc.; or, suggest your own favorite individual tier.         only wastrels and louts need apply for membership.  waldo, that means you and jeffey miller are pre-approved.         all responses are greatly appreciated by the charter member, yours truly wayno

Response:

Question:

Thanks. I’d love to go there, maybe next year! Miikeh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Very Nice,         maybe some day I will see my local waters (On your site)   like Hat creek or the Pit River.

Response:

If anyone is intersted, I have a new fly fishing site.  It’s nothing fancy, but I would appreciate any input or suggestions.  It has lots of pictures of streams I fish near my home in Minneapolis and other streams out west.  I also will be posting the current stream conditions for spots as I fish ‘em. http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/mmhodg/ Thanks. MikeH

Response:

Very Nice,          maybe some day I will see my local waters (On your site)    like Hat creek or the Pit River.

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Question:

i snapped the tip off my pm . i brought it back to orvis of boston and they gave me another right then and there.i was shocked still

Response:

Jeff Baker: <<i snapped the tip off my pm . i brought it back to orvis of boston and they gave me another right then and there.i was shocked still Why?  Shocked that they honored their warranty?  Or, shocked that they did not send it back to the factory?  There is much bitching and moaning about Orvis on these pages, but there products are superior and their warranties unprecendented.   Dave LaCourse

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Hi Jeff, I’ve alway found the folks at Orvis to provide good service. Glad things turned out for you. Take care & … tight lines – Al Beatty Whiting Farms – Hoffman Hackle Al Beatty2

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Ditto. I use all brands of stuff and like Orvis just fine. Sometimes guys think buying stuff from Orvis is being a yuppie, meanwhile they buy gear that is more expensive from other manufacturers and think they aren’t being snobs because it doesn’t say Orvis. Viva anything that works including ORVIS, ORVIS !!

Response:

You should have asked for a Trident.

i snapped the tip off my pm . i brought it back to orvis of boston and they gave me another right then and there.i was shocked still

Response:

I can vouch for the Boston store. My father died and my brothers and I divided his flyfishing equipment. I took the waders in to the Boston store while traveling to see if they still had the suspenders, which were missing, and to see if the waders could be altered a little. They said no to both, but steered me to the rack and suggested I pick out a new pair. I assumed it was a version of bait and switch (no pun intended), but was shocked to discover they meant – pick out a new pair. My father was a life long Orvis customer, and I will be too. John Tesar

i snapped the tip off my pm . i brought it back to orvis of boston and they gave me another right then and there.i was shocked still

Response:

John Tesar: Great story, John.  You will see folks on this ng bitch ‘n moan about Orvis, but their stuff is good (if pricey) and they do stand behind their product. Dave LaCourse

Response:

John Tesar: Great story, John.  You will see folks on this ng bitch ‘n moan about Orvis, but their stuff is good (if pricey) and they do stand behind their product. Dave LaCourse

    The Orvis dealers I’ve come in contact with are to a man, pretty good people. Being of sound mind and unsound bank account, most items they sell are regretably beyond my means. I do have two reels which I ordered along with the approprate line and backing. When I received them they were all set up ready to go. The gripes I see on this NG are not about quality or service but about the clothing etc. that are in the Orvis shops. Personally "who gives a rats patooty". If that is what it takes to make a shop fiscally sound, it’s better than a "closed" sign and I can walk on by. When ever I am in an area not close to home I search out an Orvis dealer and buy the recomended fly of the day( usually in threes). I’ve yet to be disapointed.                                                              John Popp                                                         in Sanford Fl.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I can vouch for the Boston store. My father died and my brothers and I divided his flyfishing equipment. I took the waders in to the Boston store while traveling to see if they still had the suspenders, which were missing, and to see if the waders could be altered a little. They said no to both, but steered me to the rack and suggested I pick out a new pair. I assumed it was a version of bait and switch (no pun intended), but was shocked to discover they meant – pick out a new pair. My father was a life long Orvis customer, and I will be too. John Tesar i snapped the tip off my pm . i brought it back to orvis of boston and they gave me another right then and there.i was shocked still

_____ I believe those waders came with a lifetime guarantee.  Yet, you are well taken care of and you should stick with those companies that make you satisfied and happy.  If the Boston Store does that for you, amen. I’d stick with them myself if I used Orvis equipment, under your circumstances.   Mr. G.

Response:

My father died and my brothers and I divided his flyfishing equipment. I took the waders in to the Boston store while traveling to see if they still had the suspenders, which were missing, and to see if the waders could be altered a little.

Please, bury me in my waders…I’ll be a needin’ ‘em. — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "Guilt replaced the creel…"

Response:

Please, bury me in my waders…I’ll be a needin’ ‘em.

Our pleasure. Is next Tuesday good for you? ;^)

Response:

My father died and my brothers and I divided his flyfishing equipment. I took the waders in to the Boston store while traveling to see if they still had the suspenders, which were missing, and to see if the waders could be altered a little. Please, bury me in my waders…I’ll be a needin’ ‘em. — TimW, Halfordian Golfer "Guilt replaced the creel…"

_____ Tim?  Consider yourself hugged.  Wonderful reply! Mr. G.

Response:

Please, bury me in my waders…I’ll be a needin’ ‘em. Our pleasure. Is next Tuesday good for you? ;^)

______ As a gentleman, that was uncalled for. Mr. G.

Response:

Please, bury me in my waders…I’ll be a needin’ ‘em. Our pleasure. Is next Tuesday good for you? ;^) ______ As a gentleman, that was uncalled for. Mr. G.

Aw, c’mon Georgie! It was clearly denoted as a rib – even you should be able to pick up on that ;^) /dave

Response:

 Please, bury me in my waders…I’ll be a needin’ ‘em. Our pleasure. Is next Tuesday good for you? ;^) ______ As a gentleman, that was uncalled for. Mr. G.

Aw, c’mon Georgie! It was clearly denoted as a rib – even you should be able to pick up on that ;^) << Hey, if that ‘hole diden’t pick up on the first ), the 2d one won’t do any good.  He probably thinks you’re going to steal one of his ribs.  After all, "denoted" is more than one syllable. Your post was perfect.  Only thing I didn’t like about it was that *you* posted it, not me. <g

Response:

Dave LaCourse,I was just surprised of the fact that Orvis exchanged the rod when I brought it in.I’ve been using Orvis products since 1965,fishing mostly with their cane.That exchange just made me feel good, sort of bringing me back to the good old days,when we thought of a company making products for us to enjoy,never thinking how we’re getting fucked like we or I do these days, J Baker.

Response:

good, sort of bringing me back to the good old days,when we thought of a company making products for us to enjoy, I know the feeling, friend.  They have exchanged a number of things for me, no argument, no explanation on my part.  I don’t like it – they exchange it.  I will continue to do business with them. I have been teased by friends on this NG about wearing Orvis driving shoes and driving gloves and hat, and a doggy bed for my good dawg Charlie.  It’s all in fun (I hope).  Orvis HAS gone the way of a yuppie-provider-store, but they still make fine fishin’ stuff and I will always be a customer. Dave LaCourse

Response:

I have been teased by friends on this NG about wearing Orvis driving shoes and driving gloves and hat, and a doggy bed for my good dawg Charlie.  

And I _do_ like the bed<g. I too like Orvis products. Some of their stuff is fluff, but I have had excellent luck with their fishing gear and have some of their luggage that is probably close to 20yrs old, has been around the world (literally) a couple of times, and is still in great shape. I sure wouldn’t hesitate to buy something just because it had their logo on it, not would I buy something simply because it did. FWIW. — Charlie…

Response:

John Tesar: Great story, John.  You will see folks on this ng bitch ‘n moan about Orvis, but their stuff is good (if pricey) and they do stand behind their product. Dave LaCourse

Hi All, Orvis, L.L.Bean, Patagonia and a few others have the reputation of taking care of their customers. Actually, if given the chance, many manufacturers will do something for you if a product does not last or doesn’t work out somehow. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY www.kiene.com

Response:

Question:

Hi All, There is a lot of low elevation action right now in Nor Cal. We have the striper spawning run that is below and above my town of Sacramento now. April/May/ June is prime time so go for it. There are small spring run steelhead and trout in all the valley rivers/streams and they are feeding on salmon fry and insects. The black bass are really taking off now especially on the sunny days. The shad run is getting close with May/June being the prime months for wading. They will be boat fishing for them very soon. Many low elevation lakes are seeing the end of the winter trout before they go deep and the bass are coming to the banks with the warm weather. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com

Response:

Trip Report of Sorts We got majorly lost driving back to anaheim from universal studios…last week. We missed the turnoff from 10 to 5 and didn’t notice it until we hit highway 15, Ontario, etc. and I told the driver….uh…."what road are we on…?". Ugly American Tourists on their day off. Your pal, — TBone The Halfordian Golfer

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi All, There is a lot of low elevation action right now in Nor Cal. We have the striper spawning run that is below and above my town of Sacramento now. April/May/ June is prime time so go for it. There are small spring run steelhead and trout in all the valley rivers/streams and they are feeding on salmon fry and insects. The black bass are really taking off now especially on the sunny days. The shad run is getting close with May/June being the prime months for wading. They will be boat fishing for them very soon. Many low elevation lakes are seeing the end of the winter trout before they go deep and the bass are coming to the banks with the warm weather. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com

Response:

Trip Report of Sorts We got majorly lost driving back to anaheim from universal studios…last week. We missed the turnoff from 10 to 5 and didn’t notice it until we hit highway 15, Ontario, etc. and I told the driver….uh…."what road are we on…?". Ugly American Tourists on their day off. Your pal,

Shit, if you didn’t notice until you got to Ontario – you were REALLY lost.  :) Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://home.cogeco.ca/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

Okay Bill, you convinced me.  I will leave these 30 lb stripers in the Chesapeake and the shad run and head to California.  Thanks for the tips by the way.  I talked to my buddy and he is bringing his raft and rowing frame. We will get a guide (hopefully) on the Lower Sac for Saturday and then raft it on Sunday and Monday. By the way, with my history, you might want to call the volunteer fire departments for the areas downstream from Redding and alert them to my presence.  They might want to stock up on grappling hooks.  Anyone else with a video camera is free to film from a safe distance.  Again, I thank you and my widow thanks you. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

Shit, if you didn’t notice until you got to Ontario – you were REALLY lost.  :) Peter

Hey, I grew up 10 miles from Ontario, does that mean I can claim dual citizenship? — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

Shit, if you didn’t notice until you got to Ontario – you were REALLY lost.  :) Peter Hey, I grew up 10 miles from Ontario, does that mean I can claim dual citizenship?

Frank, we’d be proud to call you one of ours.  Hell, you’d fit right in.  (Not sure if that’s a good thing, though?) Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://home.cogeco.ca/~pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

(excuse if this is a duplicate, but my server is a bit wanky) Okay Bill, you convinced me.  I will leave these 30 lb stripers in the Chesapeake and the shad run and head to California.  Thanks for the tips by the way.  I talked to my buddy and he is bringing his raft and rowing frame. We will get a guide (hopefully) on the Lower Sac for Saturday and then raft it on Sunday and Monday. By the way, with my history, you might want to call the volunteer fire departments for the areas downstream from Redding and alert them to my presence.  They might want to stock up on grappling hooks.  Anyone else with a video camera is free to film from a safe distance.  Again, I thank you and my widow thanks you. — Frank Reid Reverse email to reply.

Response:

We got majorly lost driving back to anaheim from universal studios…last week. We missed the turnoff from 10 to 5 and didn’t notice it until we hit highway 15, Ontario, etc. and I told the driver….uh…."what road are we on…?".

Yeah, the 4-level.  Depending on which way you hit that interchange where the 10, 101, 5, 110 all seem to merge, you might have to cross 4 lanes of highway in 1/8 mile to reach your desired destination. Mu

Response:

I’m planning a vacation for the end of July, and was considering the Shasta region of Northern Cal.  To fish the McCloud, Trinity,etc.  What I’ve read however seems to promote an awful lot of private water, and I’m not going to be able to afford guided trips.  Can anyone clue me in as to public access out there, and what to expect?  If I’m going to be frustrated by access, I’d rather go to Montana/Idaho/Wyoming as I usually do.  Thanks in advance. Ray P

Response:

Yes by all means go to Montana/Idaho/Wyoming we don’t have any guides and the water is all private. — Ernie Harrison Remove NOSPAM to send E-mail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m planning a vacation for the end of July, and was considering the Shasta region of Northern Cal.  To fish the McCloud, Trinity,etc.  What I’ve read however seems to promote an awful lot of private water, and I’m not going to be able to afford guided trips.  Can anyone clue me in as to public access out there, and what to expect?  If I’m going to be frustrated by access, I’d rather go to Montana/Idaho/Wyoming as I usually do.  Thanks in advance. Ray P

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(Rapalm) writes: I’m planning a vacation for the end of July, and was considering the Shasta region of Northern Cal.  To fish the McCloud, Trinity,etc.  What I’ve read however seems to promote an awful lot of private water, and I’m not going to beable to afford guided trips.  Can anyone clue me in as to public access out there, and what to expect?  If I’m going to be frustrated by access, I’d rather go to Montana/Idaho/Wyoming as I usually do.  Thanks in advance. Ray P

Hi Ray, There’s huge amounts of public water on the McCloud, Upper Sac, Trinity, Hat Creek, Pit River, Upper Klamath River, etc.     The McCloud has about a 3 mile section that is owned and operated by the Nature Conservancy and they limit access to a max of 10 rods at any one time.  All of the area from the McCloud Reservoir (lake) down to this is public access and great water.  Lots of public access above the reservoir too, but mostly stocked because it is open to bait fishing.  The Upper Sac has ~ 40 miles of public access.  Virtually all of the Trinity, Hat Creek, Pit River and Upper Klamath are open to public access. The Fall River is totally surrounded by private land but there is public access provided by CalTrout by  Island Bridge.  You do need a pram or other small boat to fish it, ther is no bank access.  The Fall and the section of Hat Creek below the influx of the Rising River are both big spring creeks.  The others are freestone streams.  Scenery is much different than Montana – much greener. Exception would be the Fall River which is best characterised as a large meadow stream that barely moves. Best to call before you come to see what conditions are on the different rivers.  I can tell you what the current conditions are on the McCloud and Upper Sac because I guide on those rivers.  Although I’ve guided in the past on the Fall and on Hat Creek, I’m not sure I’ll do so this year.  The Fly Shop in Redding is usually a good source for info on most of the N. CA rivers.  The Trinity Fly Shop will have current info on the Trinity.  With all the snow and rain we’ve had this year, I’d expect July to be good in N CA.                                            Good Fishing,                                                     Dan Dan Gracia Orvis West Coast Fly Fishing Schools

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Question:

Ralph Cutter has asked me to pass on the following regarding the successful reversal of a watermaster’s draw down plan on the Truckee river which would have seriously damaged the fisheries.  His access is temporarily blocked for technical reasons. Our effort started with an e-mail message from Ralph last Sunday afternoon.  The word was spread via e-mail to lots of fly fishing interests and fisheries biologists.  The next day the watermaster was deluged by phone calls.  The first reaction was stonewalling and the claim that nothing could be done.  By 4:00 p.m., the watermaster had completely capitulated to our request.  Shows what can be done by an intelligently directed and effective effort.  Ralph’s note is copied below: Congratulations! We did it!! I just spoke with the Federal Watermaster Gary Stone and he has developed a revised ramping schedule as follows: 3/17  5:00 pm  1,850 cfs to 1,400 cfs 3/18  7:00 am  1,400 cfs to 1,100 cfs       10:00am 1,100 cfs to 800 cfs       2:00 pm 800 cfs to 500 cfs       6:00 pm 500 cfs to 300 cfs 3/19  7:00 am  300 cfs to 200 cfs       10:00 am 200 cfs to 100 cfs    He asked me to "tell all your flyfishing friends they can stop calling me now."    As you recall the original plan was to cut flows from 1,950 to 1,000 cfs then six hours later cut that to 100 cfs. This morning Gary relented and added a third cut. After all our pressure (and substantial arm twisting by DF&G biologist Stafford Laird) he sat down this afternoon and did what was right.    You saved a fishery. On behalf of the trout, thanks.   -Ralph

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Nice story Dick, Ralph.  Good one! Cheers — Erik Poole

: Ralph Cutter has asked me to pass on the following regarding the : successful reversal of a watermaster’s draw down plan on the Truckee : river which would have seriously damaged the fisheries.  His access is : temporarily blocked for technical reasons. : Our effort started with an e-mail message from Ralph last Sunday : afternoon.  The word was spread via e-mail to lots of fly fishing : interests and fisheries biologists.  The next day the watermaster was : deluged by phone calls.  The first reaction was stonewalling and the : claim that nothing could be done.  By 4:00 p.m., the watermaster had : completely capitulated to our request.  Shows what can be done by an : intelligently directed and effective effort.  Ralph’s note is copied : below: : Congratulations! We did it!! : I just spoke with the Federal Watermaster Gary Stone and he : has developed a revised ramping schedule as follows: : 3/17  5:00 pm  1,850 cfs to 1,400 cfs : 3/18  7:00 am  1,400 cfs to 1,100 cfs :       10:00am 1,100 cfs to 800 cfs :       2:00 pm 800 cfs to 500 cfs :       6:00 pm 500 cfs to 300 cfs : 3/19  7:00 am  300 cfs to 200 cfs :       10:00 am 200 cfs to 100 cfs :    He asked me to "tell all your flyfishing friends they can : stop calling me now." :    As you recall the original plan was to cut flows from : 1,950 to 1,000 cfs then six hours later cut that to 100 cfs. : This morning Gary relented and added a third cut. After all : our pressure (and substantial arm twisting by DF&G biologist : Stafford Laird) he sat down this afternoon and did what was : right. :    You saved a fishery. On behalf of the trout, thanks. :   -Ralph — Burnaby, BC

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Ralph et al on Phones: Well Done!  Once again, Ralph wrestles a python… S.N.

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Question:

This is true.  Bass are funny like that.  My youngest son and I were out on a lake one morning when It was drizzling rain.  We couldn’t keep fish off our baits.  I even had one hit a plug floating on the surface while I was trying to unhook Brian’s fish.  We caught 21 that morning.  Best day ever for bass. -Burton

Did YOU read the subject line before posting? MikeH

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: The absolute worst time to fish is when a low pressure front is passing : through.  Changes in the barometric pressure affect all kinds of fish.  Their : balance system gets screwed up and they like to hold tight to cover and not : move.  Bass seem to bite better on cloudy days, but I’ve had no problems Sometimes it depends on intensity. One of the most memorable days I’ve had fishing came fishing for bass in Ohio. I was by myself in my 12′ canoe, and the morning was slow, but started to pick up. Then a front began closing in — the biggest, darkest, most defined storm front I’ve ever seen. I half expected a tornado to spawn, and had I been farther in the midwest it probably would have been certain. But the 1.5 hours before I got drenched was incredible. The bass were slamming my buzzbait so hard…not a single short strike…and they’d come leaping out 2, 3 times. It was great. In the end, I had "only" 7 hookups — but this was a C+K public lake (not even slot limits), and normally I’d have to work hard to catch one keeper sized bass all morning. But I remember each one, and I wouldn’t want to have caught any more. Since then, I’ve never been fortunate enough to be out fishing when a front like that has passed through. But I’m waiting. JonCook.

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Then a front began closing in — the biggest, darkest, most defined storm front I’ve ever seen. I half expected a tornado to spawn, and had I been farther in the midwest it probably would have been certain. But the 1.5 hours before I got drenched was incredible. The bass were slamming my buzzbait so hard…not a single short strike…and they’d

This is true.  Bass are funny like that.  My youngest son and I were out on a lake one morning when It was drizzling rain.  We couldn’t keep fish off our baits.  I even had one hit a plug floating on the surface while I was trying to unhook Brian’s fish.  We caught 21 that morning.  Best day ever for bass. -Burton — L. Burton Hawley         2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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The absolute worst time to fish is when a low pressure front is passing through. snip… Well here in Minnesota, the walleye fishermen jump up and down when a low pressure system is passing through.  Lots of wind and clouds make for a good walleye Also see my post to Fishing for Quality.  I had my best day last year during a rain storm if that means anything. Anyway, for me a good day fishing beats most anything. Mike HDid you read the subject line before making this post?

-Burton — L. Burton Hawley           2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR

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The absolute worst time to fish is when a low pressure front is passing through. snip…

Well here in Minnesota, the walleye fishermen jump up and down when a low pressure system is passing through.  Lots of wind and clouds make for a good walleye bite.  Also, as a muskie fishermen I would fish in a hurricane if we had ‘em.  Instead I’d fish in snow storms in November and have the best muskie fishing of the year. Also see my post to Fishing for Quality.  I had my best day last year during a rain storm if that means anything. Anyway, for me a good day fishing beats most anything. Mike H

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A little ryme I heard a long time ago goes:    Wind from the East, fishing is least.    Wind from the West, fishing is best.    Wind from the North, don’t salley forth. Don’t remember if there was one about the South!

But when the wind is from the South, It blows the fly to the fish’s mouth. A northeast wind is bad news around here. Woods Hole, MA   USA

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – the whole river seems dead. Are there any known environmental effects on trout feeding?  What conditions should one try to seek or avoid. The only advice I’ve heard is that cloudy days are better than sunny days. The absolute worst time to fish is when a low pressure front is passing through.  Changes in the barometric pressure affect all kinds of fish.  Their balance system gets screwed up and they like to hold tight to cover and not move.  Bass seem to bite better on cloudy days, but I’ve had no problems catching trout in all kinds of weather in a variety of temps.  I have also had trouble catching fish on very windy days (although that might have been a low pressure front moving now that I think about it). A little ryme I heard a long time ago goes:         Wind from the East, fishing is least.         Wind from the West, fishing is best.         Wind from the North, don’t salley forth. Don’t remember if there was one about the South! Tight Lines, -Burton

Wind or naught, don’t sit there and rot. — TimW Halfordian Golfer

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the whole river seems dead. Are there any known environmental effects on trout feeding?  What conditions should one try to seek or avoid. The only advice I’ve heard is that cloudy days are better than sunny days.

The absolute worst time to fish is when a low pressure front is passing through.  Changes in the barometric pressure affect all kinds of fish.  Their balance system gets screwed up and they like to hold tight to cover and not move.  Bass seem to bite better on cloudy days, but I’ve had no problems catching trout in all kinds of weather in a variety of temps.  I have also had trouble catching fish on very windy days (although that might have been a low pressure front moving now that I think about it). A little ryme I heard a long time ago goes:         Wind from the East, fishing is least.         Wind from the West, fishing is best.         Wind from the North, don’t salley forth. Don’t remember if there was one about the South! Tight Lines, -Burton — L. Burton Hawley           2330 NW Hummingbird Corvallis, OR          "Those children that you spit on           as they try to change their worlds,           are immune to your consultations,           and quite aware of what they are going through."      "Changes"      David Bowie

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Question:

I am new to the midwest and a local suggested I try the Pere Marquette. We live in Chicago, so I thought we’d make a weekend of the trip. I would appreciate the what, when, where, and how’s of fly fishing there for Salmon. Suggested camp grounds would be appreciated, as well as best route from Chicago and approximate travel time. Thanxs in advance, Bryan

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I am new to the midwest and a local suggested I try the Pere Marquette. We live in Chicago, so I thought we’d make a weekend of the trip. I would appreciate the what, when, where, and how’s of fly fishing there for Salmon. Suggested camp grounds would be appreciated, as well as best route from Chicago and approximate travel time. Thanxs in advance, Bryan

                                   * I am a native to MI (at least I am now) and I visit the PM rather frequently. If you email me at home I can give you phone numbers and the like for my favorite lodge.  I really like the Johnsons Pere Marquette lodge.  I have stayed there for only $35-/night midweek during the salmon season.  I don’t know what it is this year.  I now have a cabin of my own up there only 7 min. from the flies only water of the PM.  I suggest that you go mid-week if you can.  If you go, try to find the most inaccessible spot you can.  The river is so full of salmon you can practically walk across on their backs, in any hole in the river.  The trick is finding a place with few enough fellow fishermen that the fish haven’t already been spooked into oblivion.  A drift boat with a guide is an excellent solution if you have the money.  I have not done that yet, though.  The Johnsons lodge is also an Orvis shop (sorry) but they really are nice anyway.  They give away a really good map of the flies only section of the river.  It helps a lot.  Good luck.                                     * Lenny Bloksberg . . .

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