Question:

Our family just exchanged a few gifts early. My daughter helps run a local zoo (great source for peacock feathers) and has to go in early Christmas morning to make sure all the animals are okay, so we won’t have our usual early AM gift swap. My youngest son gave me an organizer for my tying stuff that is *awesome* and wasn’t even on my list. It’s about 1/4 the size of Frank Reid’s box, so it is HUGE. Now I just have to go out and buy some more stuff to fill it. Looks like I’ll have to wrangle some more $$ by the time the fly fishing show comes to town. Back to bonding with the family and drinking a little toast to them – single malt, of course. I’ll tip my glass to you all as well. I’ve said it before, and at the risk of going maudlin I’ll say it again: I’ve gotten a great amount of information from this group over the past few years that has vastly improved my on-stream enjoyment and performance, and I appreciate every bit of it. I’ve also met some people I’d never have met without ROFF, and would have been a poorer man for not meeting them. — TL, Tim

Response:

. I’ll tip my glass to you all as well. I’ve said it before, and at the risk of going maudlin I’ll say it again: I’ve gotten a great amount of information from this group over the past few years that has vastly improved my on-stream enjoyment and performance, and I appreciate every bit of it. I’ve also met some people I’d never have met without ROFF, and would have been a poorer man for not meeting them. — TL, Tim

    well, maudlin is a word for people who can’t feel what you have just expressed.  of course, that is just an opinion from yfitons wayno – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

Question:

Depends on where you are (local species) . Price you are willing to spend. Local terrain of your most visited fishing water (overhanging trees vs open) Wading or bank fishing. However you can’t go wrong with the Cabelas 3forks 3wt 3piece 7.5′ combo as a starter. Ask anyone. John Popp – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I read the post on the brookie and checked out the world cup website. it seems to be a very novel idea. has this been around for a while or is it brand new….also i am interested more in flly fishing than spinning. could someone recomend a good starter setup for a novice?  thanks RJ —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

Lots of very favorable posts have surfaced recently about the rods John mentioned…they seem to be very good rods for the $$$.  The only change I would make is for starters I would suggest something in a heavier weight line, say a 5 or 6 weight.  It’s a little more versatile and easier casting heavy nymphs, streamers and bass type flys. Good luck and Tight Lines! Natty

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I read the post on the brookie and checked out the world cup website. it seems to be a very novel idea. has this been around for a while or is it brand new….also i am interested more in flly fishing than spinning. could someone recomend a good starter setup for a novice?  thanks RJ —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

Depends on where you are (local species) . Price you are willing to spend. Local terrain of your most visited fishing water (overhanging trees vs open) Wading or bank fishing. However you can’t go wrong with the Cabelas 3forks 3wt 3piece 7.5′ combo as a starter. Ask anyone.

You will quite certinly go wrong with a 3wt outfit for a complete beginner. Get a 5-6 wt first. The heavier line gives a much better feeling for the timing than a 3wt. Casting is easier with a heavier line. Wolfgang — shconnect Internet Service Grosse Strasse 17, 24392 S

Question:

I just got home after the clave…Debbie Ursenbach won a knot machine…

<snipped What is a knot machine?  I love gadgets, in fact my kids call me…never mind what they call me… <)))’    <)))’    <)))’    <’(((<    <)))’    <)))’

"Intolerance of ambiguity is the mark of an authoritarian personality."

Response:

Ernie Harrison won a fly box & over 100 flies donated by Bruiser Vern

Hot damn, thank you Bruiser I can’t wait to see them. Vern, a check is in the mail for postage, thanks for your good work. Ernie

Response:

I just got home after the clave…Debbie Ursenbach won a knot machine… <snipped What is a knot machine?  I love gadgets, in fact my kids call me…never mind what they call me…

http://home.earthlink.net/~eharrison241/ — Levi "So long, and thanks for all the fish."

Response:

Hot damn, thank you Bruiser I can’t wait to see them. Vern, a check is in the mail for postage, thanks for your good work.

Now, no one said anything about being able to *see* them!  Bruce ties a lot of those nice midge thingies.  Actually when you get that many lined up you begin to see a pinkish hue against the white fly box background Regards, Jeff

Response:

Hey Ernie, i was glad you won my flies, hope you like them. Bring them to the San Juan where you can use them.  I’ll take you fishing and we can tie a few blood knots. I’m serious about the visit ernie, come on down and bring Darin, RW, Warren, Willi, Charlie, Bob, Dan’l, and all the other Roffers with you. I’ll buy the beer and tie the flies.  On second thought, most of you will probably want to tie your own. There’s about 7 fly shops at the San Juan that need a new gadget in their inventory (I’m thinking blood knot machine). One more time, Warren, you ran a great clave.  I came late, found great people to fish with every day, and had the time of my life.  Can’t wait for Western Clave 2001. bruiser  YES I CAN POST!  YEE HA!  THANKS CHARLIE FOR THE COMPUTER HELP! Before you buy.

Response:

I’m serious about the visit ernie, come on down and bring Darin, RW, Warren, Willi, Charlie, Bob, Dan’l, and all the other Roffers with you. I’ll buy the beer  <unimportant stuff snipped

  When and where is all I need to know. Snoop — —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–==  Over 80,000 Newsgroups – 16 Different Servers! =—–

Response:

Bruce,    I am certain I will love your flies.  I have never fished the San Juan but if I ever get down that way I will let you know and you can show me the ropes.  I used to wholesale the Blood Knot Machine several years ago to companies like Hook&Hackle, but just sell a few I have left on the Internet for my own entertainment now. Ernie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey Ernie, Bring them to the San Juan where you can use them.  I’ll take you fishing and we can tie a few blood knots. I’m serious about the visit ernie, come on down and bring Darin, RW, Warren, Willi, Charlie, Bob, Dan’l, and all the other Roffers with you. I’ll buy the beer and tie the flies.  On second thought, most of you will probably want to tie your own. There’s about 7 fly shops at the San Juan that need a new gadget in their inventory (I’m thinking blood knot machine). One more time, Warren, you ran a great clave.  I came late, found great people to fish with every day, and had the time of my life.  Can’t wait for Western Clave 2001. bruiser

Response:

I wanted to get on roff before doing anything else and post the results of the raffle. Bob Skinner won HoldZit Products donated by Pat R. Pat Reichner won a hat, fly box, flies, second fly box, & flies from the fly swap donated by Warren F.

Thanks Vern….I never made it to the clave or the raffle to pick up my prize.   Please send it ASAP.<g Bob, it was nice of you to pass out your HoldZit products to the rest of the clave fishermen/ladies.  I was hoping everyone got a sample. — Sharp Hooks, Pat Holdzit Fishing Products Inc. http://www.holdzit.com Before you buy.

Response:

I just got home after the clave and after fishing Henry’s Fork, Buffalo River, and the Provo.  Why should the fishing end with the clave?  It didn’t for me. I wanted to get on roff before doing anything else and post the results of the raffle.  I should say that I have not read anything on roff and have no idea if anyone else have made another similar post.  More comments are to come after I clean out the car and get settled back into being home again. Mickey Agua won a quilt donated by Debbie U. Vernon Ursenbach won a bamboo fly-rod donated by Steve Z. Dan Finn won a fly rod donated by Mike C. & a rod tube donated by Tom B. Darin Minor won furled leaders donated by Michael E. & a ff book donated by Ken F. Brian D. Nelson won a knot tool & Simms thing donated by Frank C. & a bottle of wine donated by Dan F. Debbie Ursenbach won a knot machine & rod building info donated by Ernie H. Steve Zimmerman won 2 ff books donated by Kiyu Bob Skinner won HoldZit Products donated by Pat R. Michael Erana won a guided float trip for 2 donated by Brian N.  (There are special conditions that apply.) Bruce Hopper aka Bruiser won a fly box & 4 dozen flies donated by William L. Pat Wilson won a fly box, flies, & complete pheasant hide donated by Bob S. Frank Church T-Shirt & Y2K clave photo donated by Wayne H. Tom Brown won a fly box & flies donated by Dale W. Stephen Barnard aka RW won 2 ff books donated by Kelly R. Pat Reichner won a hat, fly box, flies, second fly box, & flies from the fly swap donated by Warren F. Ernie Harrison won a fly box & over 100 flies donated by Bruiser Dave Snedeker won a Cortland Lazerline WF3F donated by Darin M. Kelly Roger won a bunch of show stuff from Las Vegas donated by Vernon U. William Loehman won a 8′ 2wt fly rod donated by Charles W. Dale Wilkionson won a C&R tool & lanyard donated by RW Warren Findley won a fly reel donated by Walt W. Charles Wilson won a Bastard fly rod donated by Mickey A. (George ?) — Vern The new ROFF page: http://home.earthlink.net/~flyfishing4fun "Wilderness needs no defense, only more defenders"                             quote by Edward Abbey Before you buy.

Response:

Bruce Hopper aka Bruiser won a fly box & 4 dozen flies donated by William L.

I saw those flies – they appeared to be really well tied. Got questions?  Get answers over the phone at Keen.com. Up to 100 minutes free! http://www.keen.com

Response:

Question:

Well that’s not terribly expensive – I would recommend the 4 pc rod over the 2 pc. The higher resale valve will make up for the additional cost and it’s so much easier if you get a chance to do some traveling. The casting action on the 4 pc VPS is virtually the same on the 2 and 4 pc. The DS series is considerably slower action that the RPL / VPS series – I have cast both. Also the resale valve is considerably lower percent wise. Most everyone I know that purchased a DS outgrow it within a year or so. FYI: I normally fish RPLX rods (8wt & up) , to me the RPL/VPS is slower, but still very castable and able to shoot line, where the DS is too slow and unable to shoot line.

I’m not sure about the 5, seems light if you do much smallmouth fishing so my 2 bits: go for a 6. On the VSP –  I have a 690-4 RPL – I was told that the VSP is the exact same rod by sage.  It’s a nice rod, and  can cast a pretty good sized popper or streamer.  Most of my buddies that have cast it like it also. What is the cost of the VPS combo?

They want a little over $400 for a combo.  They give you a nice reel setup with backing and WF-F fly line, usually higher quality.   But then for the same action I was checking into the DS series rods, looks line the same rod action of med-fast, but at about $290 for the combo.  I am leaning towards the Sage more and more. One good thing (if you need the money), I start working 7 days a week in two weeks, so after I work two or three of them, I’ll have the money to buy either one if I want and still be able to feed the family. –Randy

Response:

… I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods.

Why ? — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Okay, I’m thinking about a new rod.  I stopped at my local shop today and checked out a few rods.  I’ve determined after talking with the guy there, I want a 5 weight for the different fishing I do, mainly smallmouth and trout. I have narrowed down to the following: a Sage DSL series , a Scott (whatever series), a step up to a Sage VSP series, or going to a different shop and getting a Orvis Silver label series rod.  I am not in a hurry since I will only start working 7 days a week in a few weeks (I’ll have the money after one or two weeks of this).     I am leaning towards the Sage VSP Combo right now, but this can change. I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods. –Randy

Response:

   I am leaning towards the Sage VSP Combo right now, but this can change. I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods.

Sage has a pretty hefty markup on their rods, IMO.  But, it seems to me the VSP is one of the best "values" (this term might be hotly debated by Mike Connor  Their rep was telling me how just a few years ago it was a top-of-the-line rod (used to be the RPL I think?)  Technology marches on and the price goes down.  Is it all of a sudden not such a good rod?  Of course not.  I preferred that rod’s action over the SP, but that’s just personal preference, and reasonable as far as Sage goes.  BTW, if you’re deciding on finials, go with something in iron rather than wood – more gothic looking * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

… I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods. Why ?

Exactly. No one can tell what you like. You have to try them and decide what you want, and then post your opinion and your reasons if you like. It’s not like buying a used car. I’m sure any of those rods would do the job. — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/ something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, BTW, if you’re deciding on finials, go with something in iron rather than wood – more gothic looking BTW, I’m not old enough to start playing golf yet…though If I could find a ‘gothic’ looking rod, I just might be able to interest my oldest daughter in fly fishing, I don’t think I seen black waders yet.

Randy, the keyword here is finial. I don’t think anybody is being so crude that they would suggest that you’re a golfer.     Jim * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    I am leaning towards the Sage VSP Combo right now, but this can change. I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods. Sage has a pretty hefty markup on their rods, IMO.  But, it seems to me the VSP is one of the best "values" (this term might be hotly debated by Mike Connor  Their rep was telling me how just a few years ago it was a top-of-the-line rod (used to be the RPL I think?)  Technology marches on and the price goes down.  Is it all of a sudden not such a good rod?  Of course not.  I preferred that rod’s action over the SP, but that’s just personal preference, and reasonable as far as Sage goes.  BTW, if you’re deciding on finials, go with something in iron rather than wood – more gothic looking

Maybe I should just get another ultra-light spinning outfit and one of those fly fishing shooting head attachments… ROFLOL BTW, I’m not old enough to start playing golf yet…though If I could find a ‘gothic’ looking rod, I just might be able to interest my oldest daughter in fly fishing, I don’t think I seen black waders yet. –Randy — Under  40……yet!

Response:

… I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods. Why ? — Ken Fortenberry

        oh, the profundity! wayno

Response:

BTW, I’m not old enough to start playing golf yet..

        well, randy, the truth is you are too damn old to start playing golf, if you are past 30. wayno, just keeping the record straight

Response:

BTW, I’m not old enough to start playing golf yet.. well, randy, the truth is you are too damn old to start playing golf, if you are past 30.

wayno, does miniature golf count? –Randy – the crowd goes crazy, as he sinks a hole in one as the ball goes over the bridge at the water fall, then under the prop of the wind mill into the pipe on the left and comes out into the cup…..

Response:

Wayno writes: well, randy, the truth is you are too damn old to start playing golf, if you are past 30.

As is often the case, Wayne is correct here, Randy. Golf is a game best learned before the teens, abandoned in one’s early twenties as a sport for old farts. When one achieves the latter status, one can resume the sport. This oncoming of old fart status can,however, occur at various ages, thus it is that some never give the game up at all.                       all in good fun,                           Tom Littleton

Response:

I’m not sure about the 5, seems light if you do much smallmouth fishing so my 2 bits: go for a 6. On the VSP –  I have a 690-4 RPL – I was told that the VSP is the exact same rod by sage.  It’s a nice rod, and  can cast a pretty good sized popper or streamer.  Most of my buddies that have cast it like it also. What is the cost of the VPS combo?

Okay, I’m thinking about a new rod.  I stopped at my local shop today and checked out a few rods.  I’ve determined after talking with the guy there, I want a 5 weight for the different fishing I do, mainly smallmouth and trout. I have narrowed down to the following: a Sage DSL series , a Scott (whatever series), a step up to a Sage VSP series, or going to a different shop and getting a Orvis Silver label series rod.  I am not in a hurry since I will only start working 7 days a week in a few weeks (I’ll have the money after one or two weeks of this).     I am leaning towards the Sage VSP Combo right now, but this can change. I will also be casting  all of these rods before I make my finial decision, but I’d like input on these rods. –Randy

Response:

I’m not sure about the 5, seems light if you do much smallmouth fishing so my 2 bits: go for a 6. On the VSP –  I have a 690-4 RPL – I was told that the VSP is the exact same rod by sage.  It’s a nice rod, and  can cast a pretty good sized popper or streamer.  Most of my buddies that have cast it like it also. What is the cost of the VPS combo?

They want a little over $400 for a combo.  They give you a nice reel setup with backing and WF-F fly line, usually higher quality.   But then for the same action I was checking into the DS series rods, looks line the same rod action of med-fast, but at about $290 for the combo.  I am leaning towards the Sage more and more. One good thing (if you need the money), I start working 7 days a week in two weeks, so after I work two or three of them, I’ll have the money to buy either one if I want and still be able to feed the family. –Randy

Response:

Question:

the ROFF Maine Clave will be held there next September.

It’s *this* September, right? (don’t want to show up a year early<g) — Charlie…

Response:

writes: the ROFF Maine Clave will be held there next September. It’s *this* September, right? (don’t want to show up a year early<g) — Charlie…

Sorry, Charlie.  Yes, *this* September. D.      —–  Posted via NewsOne.Net: Free Usenet News via the Web  —–      —–  http://newsone.net/ —  Discussions on every subject. —–    NewsOne.Net prohibits users from posting spam.  If this or other posts

Response:

: I think this describes what I am looking for to take my 12 year old for a few days : of FF’ing.  We are short-timers to the sport an decent fly tying students as well. : I am looking for a place either in northern NH or western Me. that is out of the : way but close or on some decent trout/salmon water.  Doesn’t have to be fancy (read : pricey) but just the basics to enjoy for a few days.  Please respond either : directly or to the group as others I’m sure have interest in such places.  If you : have a secret spot or two that I can impress my son with, email me privately and : I’ll be sworn to secrecy.  Thanks in advance.  Paul Neither the Libby camps or Bradfords camps are in Western Maine.  Both are in Northern Maine.  Quite a long drive from NH.  Other than that I expect you would enjoy either. — Isaac(Ike) B. Wilder That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.

Response:

Has anyone out there fished at Bradford Camps in Maine in the past few years ? If so, how was the experience (fishing, facilities, etc.) Thanks- RTW — Remove "zzz" from address if emailing direct.

Response:

You might reconsider and go to Libby’s.  I think the price is similar.  Go to www.libbycamps.com for more info.  And, no, I am not affiliated with Libby’s, although I do business with them in Maine and Labrador.  Matt and Ellen run a first class camp, with excellent cabins and 1st class food.  They even have remote cabins, strategically located on different ponds and rivers with all the amenities you would need — they are housekeeping — you fix your own meals. They are the ultimate "get away from it all" cabins. Dave LaCourse Hudson, MA

I think this describes what I am looking for to take my 12 year old for a few days of FF’ing.  We are short-timers to the sport an decent fly tying students as well. I am looking for a place either in northern NH or western Me. that is out of the way but close or on some decent trout/salmon water.  Doesn’t have to be fancy (read pricey) but just the basics to enjoy for a few days.  Please respond either directly or to the group as others I’m sure have interest in such places.  If you have a secret spot or two that I can impress my son with, email me privately and I’ll be sworn to secrecy.  Thanks in advance. Paul from Peterborough, NH

Response:

You might reconsider and go to Libby’s.  I think the price is similar.  Go to www.libbycamps.com for more info.  And, no, I am not affiliated with Libby’s, although I do business with them in Maine and Labrador.  Matt and Ellen run a first class camp, with excellent cabins and 1st class food.  They even have remote cabins, strategically located on different ponds and rivers with all the amenities you would need — they are housekeeping — you fix your own meals. They are the ultimate "get away from it all" cabins. Dave LaCourse Hudson, MA

I think this describes what I am looking for to take my 12 year old for a few days of FF’ing.  We are short-timers to the sport an decent fly tying students as well. I am looking for a place either in northern NH or western Me. that is out of the way but close or on some decent trout/salmon water.  Doesn’t have to be fancy (read pricey) but just the basics to enjoy for a few days.  Please respond either directly or to the group as others I’m sure have interest in such places.  If you have a secret spot or two that I can impress my son with, email me privately and I’ll be sworn to secrecy. Thanks in advance. Paul from Peterborough, NH

Response:

RWhite writes: Has anyone out there fished at Bradford Camps in Maine in the past few years ? If so, how was the experience (fishing, facilities, etc.) Thanks- RTW

I have fished the area while staying at Libby Camps.  Matt Libby can fly you into some remote ponds that don’t see many ffers.  I fished a pond with Bob Johnson, one of Libby’s long-time guides, and caught lots of 12 – 16 inch brookies, all on dries.  I know that Bradford Camps is "just around the corner" (so to speak) from Libby’s, but I’m not sure they have fly outs.  You can fish the area without them, but they do make for an easy way to see and fish the Allagash Wilderness.   You might reconsider and go to Libby’s.  I think the price is similar.  Go to www.libbycamps.com for more info.  And, no, I am not affiliated with Libby’s, although I do business with them in Maine and Labrador.  Matt and Ellen run a first class camp, with excellent cabins and 1st class food.  They even have remote cabins, strategically located on different ponds and rivers with all the amenities you would need — they are housekeeping — you fix your own meals. They are the ultimate "get away from it all" cabins. Dave LaCourse Hudson, MA

Response:

Paul writes:

(snip) If you have a secret spot or two that I can impress my son with, email me privately and I’ll be sworn to secrecy. Thanks in advance.

Paul, we’ve spoken before on this.  The Rapid River is a wonderful place for a dad/son team.  The food is wonderful, and the fishing the best.  See www.lakewoodcamps.com for more info.  I will be there the 1st, 2nd, and 4th weeks of June, and the ROFF Maine Clave will be held there next September. Dave LaCourse

Response:

Question:

I have a few more beginner questions for everyone.  You’ve been very helpful in the past, and I appreciate that. After sending a dry fly over a trout, and getting a strike but not being able to set the hook (I need to work on that a bit), I wonder if the trout will in general strike again on the same fly, or does should one try elsewhere, since the fish just encountered a hook and spat it out.  Comments? Second.  While looking at a trout this weekend, I noticed a flap on its face, between what I would call the "lip" and "cheek".  This seems to be a natural feature, but I haven’t seen (or noticed) it on other types of fish.  Can someone tell my why it’s there, and what the trout uses it for? Thanks db   — ****** Derek Berwald

Response:

After sending a dry fly over a trout, and getting a strike but not being able to set the hook (I need to work on that a bit), I wonder if the trout will in general strike again on the same fly, or does should one try elsewhere, since the fish just encountered a hook and spat it out.  Comments?

Hi Derek, Yes a fish will come back for a second shot on some occasions.  It may not have spit the hook our.  It’s possible you were too fast on the strike and pulled it away at the last minute.  If you are striking fast this could be the problem.  To set a hook, it’s always better to raise your rod rather than yank it into the next county.  Your success could very well go up. Regarding you next question, I’ll leave than for one of the experts in that areana. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

Response:

After sending a dry fly over a trout, and getting a strike but not being able to set the hook (I need to work on that a bit), I wonder if the trout will in general strike again on the same fly, or does should one try elsewhere, since the fish just encountered a hook and spat it out.  Comments?

The dumb, backcountry, cutts I was catching last weekend in a lake deep in the Wind Rivers would not only hit my wooly bugger more than once, they would sometimes hit it after being hooked and played for a second or two!  On the other hand, they wouldn’t hit a dry fly twice. More "educated" street-wise fish won’t hit the wooly bugger twice. Fish will often hit bait repeatedly. — -Wayne Trzyna

Response:

Yes a fish will come back for a second shot on some occasions.  It may not have spit the hook our.  It’s possible you were too fast on the strike and pulled it away at the last minute.  If you are striking fast this could be the problem.  To set a hook, it’s always better to raise your rod rather than yank it into the next county.  Your success could very well go up.

I have yanked more flys away from fish than actually hooked up fish. I get really bad on ponds where you can watch the fish come up and take the fly (or nymph). carl carl

Response:

Question:

        I live in Ohio and would like to know where would be a good place to go and try a little fly fishing!!  I am new at it so I am not that experienced with figuring the hatches and etc.  I live near columbus.  Bass and trout are what I would mainly like to fish for! Eric

Response:

       I live in Ohio and would like to know where would be a good place to go and try a little fly fishing!!  I am new at it so I am not that experienced with figuring the hatches and etc.  I live near columbus.  Bass and trout are what I would mainly like to fish for! Eric

agaga

Response:

Try the Grand River by Painesville, OH there is a park called Helen Wyzman park where there is good Smallmouth fishing.  There is also steelhead on the river in the fall.  Also, Conneaut River by Conneaut, OH is very good for steelhead.  There are quite a few other places try contacting the Valley Angler in Chagrin Falls they can give you more info

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:        I live in Ohio and would like to know where would be a good place to : go and try a little fly fishing!!  I am new at it so I am not that : experienced with figuring the hatches and etc.  I live near columbus.  Bass : and trout are what I would mainly like to fish for! You may want to try out the Scioto river and the Olentangy north of Columbus. They are excellent smallmouth waters. If you feel like going for trout, try the Mad River between Urbanna and Zanesfield. Anywhere that the road crosses over is an access point on the Mad. Also, check out the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Wildlife. They both have loads of info on whats available in the state. DNR also has a publications division with lots of free maps and info on the outdoors in this state. They are located on Belcher Drive in Columbus. Check the phone book for numbers on where to call. Jon Porter

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        I live in Ohio and would like to know where would be a good place to go and try a little fly fishing!!  I am new at it so I am not that experienced with figuring the hatches and etc.  I live near columbus.  Bass and trout are what I would mainly like to fish for! Eric

Some years ago I read an article about the Mad River, which I believe is down your ways.  My memory of the piece is sketchy, but I still remember being astounded when I read that this stream (or parts of it) is a cold water fishery with holdovers and even some wild trout. Can anyone verify or correct this? Also, since moving to Cleveland I’ve been avoiding lake fishing, simply because I don’t have a boat and shore access can be frustrating.  Well last week, I bit the bullet and went over to Findley Lake, south of Oberlin.  The day was overcast and gloomy, there was a strong breeze, but a number of fishermen dotted the shore and lake.  I think they were surprised/curious to see a fly-guy on the lake, as more than a few of them walked my way to check me out.  I got there around 10 A.M. and in the 2 hours before the park filled up with picnicers, I caught 4 heavy bluegills and a smallish largemouth, all on a #14 black streamer.  It was great fun, made even better by the look of disgust of a nearby fisherman when he saw that I was putting all the fish back in the lake. Andy

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: Some years ago I read an article about the Mad River, which I believe is : down your ways.  My memory of the piece is sketchy, but I still remember : being astounded when I read that this stream (or parts of it) is a cold : water fishery with holdovers and even some wild trout. : Can anyone verify or correct this? Yeppers.  This is all true. Since you live in Ohio, check your fishing regs. There is Info there on the Mad. Also, check with your local District office of the DNR (listed in the regs) For information on the Clear Fork of the Mohican River. The state started stocking that with trout also. And it is much closer to you in Cleveland. Jon Porter

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Question:

Will someone please post the materials list for a Pheasant Tail nymph.  I can’t believe it but my three tying books don’t list the pattern! Thanks, Johnny

Response:

Will someone please post the materials list for a Pheasant Tail nymph.  I can’t believe it but my three tying books don’t list the pattern! Thanks, Johnny

Thread – tan Tail – pheasant tail tips Body – pheasant tail fibers wrapped like herl Ribbing – thin copper wire Thorax – copper wire (for bulk and added weight) over-wrapped with peacock               herl Wing case – pheasant tail with fibers divided at the head and turned back on               either side as "legs" (trimmed to 2/3 body length) – can be tied as bead head or with variations (flashback, mylar ribbing, etc.) Good fishing!  J. Rice

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materials: cock ring-neck pheasant tail, peacock herl, fine copper wire, black thread, 1X nymph hooks (pretty fancy, huh?) tie thread base, tie tail using 4-8 barbules from tails feather depending on size equal to 1/2 length of hook shank (no longer) with 3-4 wraps of thread; tie in copper wire, wrap tail fibres forward to midpoint; counter wrap copper wire rib, tie off and trim (your thread is now just forweard of the midpoint of the shank); fold back fibres over top of fly and tie down with a couple of wraps; tie in peacock herl and wrap a full thorax; fold fibers forward over the herl forming the case, tie down with 3-4 wraps of thread; divide fibres and fold back along the sides to form legs, tie down and whip finish. I don’t think I left anything out. A little practice and you should be able to tie 16-20 flies per hour with a rotary vice. Personal variations permitted. Hope this helps. — Ken Clark Ft. Lupton, CO

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I’m not sure what a book might say, but I’ve tied thousands with the following: cooper wire Pheasant Tail Fibers Peacock Herl Lead underbody (if allowed) Tie in tail of 3-6 tail fibers, Tie in a length of pheasant tail fibers 1/8′ or so wide and 1 1/2 times the length of hook shank and wrap fibers forward to 2/3 point of shank (do not cut butts)  rib with wire forward tie down with thread wrap peacock in for thorax and bring pheasant over top of hook for wing case tie down pull a few fiber out to side as legs tie off your done. Good luck, Great Nymph

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Pheasant tails, peacock hurl, fine copper, hook and thread. John Nesselrode Shawnee, KS

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Will someone please post the materials list for a Pheasant Tail nymph.  I can’t believe it but my three tying books don’t list the pattern!

The original English tie by Frank Sawyer uses only PT herl and fine copper wire (i.e. no thread.)  If your wire is fine enough, it’s all you need. (A cheap source is transformers from broken electrical gadgets.) — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

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Will someone please post the materials list for a Pheasant Tail nymph.  I can’t believe it but my three tying books don’t list the pattern! Thanks, Johnny

Hi Johnny Here is the dressing as written by Frank Sawyer in the 1950s.  Sawyer was a river keeper and is the man credited with the invention of the PTN. This dressing may not be what you were expecting as it uses fine copper wire rather than thread.  Although that sounds difficult, I have dressed some of these myself and it wasn’t that hard.  They were also VERY effective.  Good luck. Russ         Now as to the dressings.  The materials used are quite easy for         most, who are interested, to obtain.  To represent the several         olive nymphs my pattern of the pheasant tail can be constructed         on three different hook sizes, No 00, No 0 and No 1*, and I         make no claim that the use of pheasant tail fibres for the body         of nymphs or flies is original.  But what I do claim is the         manner of the base building, ballasting, and the tying in of         the pheasant tail fibres with fine copper wire, of a colouring         to suit and tone in which the general dressing.  Artificial         nymphs tied in my way are not difficult to make, and the simple         instruction I am able to give should be sufficient for anyone         with nimble fingers to follow.         First grip the selected hook firmly in the vice and then give         the hook an even covering from bend to eye with fine         red-coloured copper wire.  The wire we use is little thicker         than a human hair and this one can obtain at little cost from         various sources.  It is used for the windings in small         transformers, dynamos, or electric motors.  After the hook has         been covered and the wire locked so that it cannot spin around         the hook shank, wind the wire in even turns to the point where         the thorax of the nymph is to be constructed, and there build         up a hump.  Then wind the wire back to the hook bend and let it         dangle.  Wire is much easier to use than silk as it will not         spin off or loosen if the tension is relaxed.         The wire with its red colour forms the base for the dressing         and at the same time gives additional weight to the hook.  I         dispense entirely with the use of silk and use the fine wire to         tie in the dressing.  The wire is now dangling from the hook         bend.  Take the four centre fibres of the browny-red cock         pheasant tail feather.  Hold the fibres by the tips and then         tie them on the with the wire so that the fine ends stand out         about one eighth of an inch from the hook bend.  They form the         tails, or the set of the nymph.  Then spin the four fibres of         the pheasant tail on to the wire so that they are reinforced,         and then lap fibres and wire evenly to the hook eye.  Hold the         wire firmly, separate the fibres from it and then wind the wire         to the point behind which the thorax is to be made.  Bend the         fibres back and fasten for the first lap of the thorax, then         forward to the eye of the hook again.  Fasten here securely         with half a dozen turns of wire and then cut away spare         fibres.         Our finished effort should have a very pronounced thorax which         suggests the bulging wing cases, and a body which tapers neatly         to the tail.  With the tail fibres spread, all is complete.         It will be noted by those who follow these instructions that         the upper part of the thorax which imitates the wing cases is         much darker than the rest of the body.  This is brought about         by the lapping back and forth of the butt ends of the pheasant         tail fibres.  If wire and fibres are wound evenly on the hook,         the spare ends should have the dark tone which is a feature in         the butts of these fibres.  This gives a very natural         appearance to the thorax.  The fibres of pheasant tail vary in         length, and indeed texture, from the butt of the feather to the         tip, so when dressing a nymph one can select lengths most         suitable for the size of the hook, bearing in mind that when         the body is made the dark part is ready to use for lapping.         When wet this pattern has a translucent effect and one can see         the red of the wire showing through the pheasant tail fibres.         The artificial, so constructed, has a very good entry to water         and will sink deeply when required.  The hook point is not         muffled or guarded in any way by hackles or by the dressing,         and a slight lift of the rod will drive it home. * Modern sizes 14, 15 and 16

Response:

Will someone please post the materials list for a Pheasant Tail nymph.  I can’t believe it but my three tying books don’t list the pattern! Thanks, Johnny

The nymph is tied with copper wire as thread.  Leaving a long tag, wrap to the bend.  Tie in about 6 pheasant tail fibers, leaving the tips for the tail.  Wrap the wire to the start of the thorax (2/3 up the shank), then create a body by wrapping the butts of the pheasant tail.  Tie them off with the wire, then use the long tag to rib the body.  Tie off the copper ribbing with the copper "thread" then trim everything.  Tie in a larger bunch of pheasant tail fibers, with the tip length about hook shank length, then some peacock herl (2-3).  Wrap the wire almost to the eye, then back to the herl, then forward again.  This weights the nymph, so wrap according to what you want.  Wrap the herl to create a plump thorax, tie it off, and trim it.  Pull the fibers over the herl to create a wing case, then pull about three to each side and create legs.  Wrap a copper head, and finish. BTW, this nymph REALLY works if fished deep.

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Thanks to everyone for the help on the pattern! Johnny Johnson

Response:

Thanks to everyone for the help on the pattern! Johnny Johnson

This is just funny enough that I’ve got to share it with ya’ll. I’ve long been a collector of road kills, much to the chagrin of both my wife and my oldest son, Michael.  Well, last month, while riding my bicycle to work…. you guessed it– I found a road kill. Well, sort of.  It was a coil that some technician had probably set on top of his car before pulling out of the parking lot.  And, it had been run over a few times.  It was definitely dead! Then, along comes this whole discussion of the original PT pattern. Lo and behold, the coil is just the thing for the wire component of the original PT pattern.  To make it even better, a hunter friend gave me two pheasant hides this year.  I’m tying nymphs for the price of the hook! So, my question is:  Has our sport gotten a little out of hand when the HOOK is over 99% of the cost of a fly?  :^) Tight pants^h^h^h^hlines! Charley

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Speaking of personal variations: For the thorax, I like to dub.  I use a dubbing loop, and stuff a couple of small bunches of selected fur in.  I keep the guard hairs in with the soft underfur.  Then I twist up the loop and wrap.  Then pull the butt ends of the PT over top as a wing case and tie off.  The guard hairs in the dub look like legs/assorted appendages and give the fly a bit more life. Another variation: Don’t put a wing case on.  I.E., tie it "in the round".  This is a philosophical thing.  In the vise, we’re always thinking of the top and bottom of the fly, but this may not be how it will behave in the water.  There is a philosophy that suggests that an upside down nymph is as upsetting to a trout as any other "error" when tying, for example some type of pure "match the hatch" dry fly. Bob Lundy IWFFC Mississauga, ON http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/rlundy/

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Will someone please post the materials list for a Pheasant Tail nymph.  I can’t believe it but my three tying books don’t list the pattern!

Hi Johnny, The Pheasant Tail is included in my fly tying web site. If you’d like, it can be found at… WWW Fly Tyer:    http://www.ns.net/~barnard (this is a non-commercial site)  :-) Look in the category "modern nymph". You will find both a recipe and step-by-step instructions. I hope this helps,    Alan.

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So, my question is:  Has our sport gotten a little out of hand when the HOOK is over 99% of the cost of a fly?  :^)

That’s the way it should be; it’s out of hand when it’s the other way around ! One a similar subject, I regularly donate trout to a friend and he regulary brings me cock pheasant centre tail feathers from his father-in-law’s shoot.  I now have ~150 of the damn things. I’d like to get into dyeing or bleaching them so I have some choice over colour; does anyone have any experience of this please ?  Where do I start ? Thanks in advance Russ

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One a similar subject, I regularly donate trout to a friend and he regulary brings me cock pheasant centre tail feathers from his father-in-law’s shoot.  I now have ~150 of the damn things. I’d like to get into dyeing or bleaching them so I have some choice over colour; does anyone have any experience of this please ?  Where do I start ? Thanks in advance Russ

Well, Russ, it just so happens I know the answer to this because I found it today while researching an article for my fly fishing club newsletter. American Angler ran a five part series of articles called "Modern Dyes and Dyeing for Fly Tiers", by Wm. T. Roubal, from May, ‘94 through Jan, ‘95.  The one on bleaching was the last one, Jan. ‘95. Charley

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Thanks to everyone for the help on the pattern! Johnny Johnson

One other suggestion.  Have had good results using PT tied with greyish-brown dubbing for the thorax instead of peacock herl.  Might even try that with flashabou wing casing.  Whatever way you tie it, the PT just never stops producin!!! g

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One other suggestion.  Have had good results using PT tied with greyish-brown dubbing for the thorax instead of peacock herl.  Might

PT inventor Frank Sawyer also made a similar nymph using grey goose herls (improvised on the spot in N. Sweden, if I remember right). — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

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Question:

 Last July, my wife and I spent a fabulous week at a wilderness  outpost cabin in the heart of British Columbia.  Our hosts were  Rhonda and Duncan Stewart of Stewart’s Lodge and Camps.  This is  a fantastic lodge with access to over 20 lakes and streams from  the main lodge on Nimpo Lake.  They also have several wilderness  outpost locations.  We chose the wilderness outpost location for  our honeymoon.  Everything was perfect.  The rainbows averaged  1-3 pounds and were anxious to devour several well-known flies.  We had the entire lake to ourselves for 4 days.  There were no  trails or roads into this place.  The Stewart’s have erected a  wonderful cabin that is more than comfortable.  We enjoyed  hiking, canoeing, backpacking, and lots of fishing.  I’d like to  go back and catch the huge rainbows in the river locations.  Stewart’s lodge is located near Tweedsmuir Provincial Park.  This  is a beautiful park with plenty of great hiking opportunities.  It reminded me of Glacier Park with one exception…no people.  You virtually have most areas to yourself.  Stewart’s Lodge and Camps is a great place for fisherman and  non-fisherman alike.  I know that we will go back soon.  I’ll be  happy to answer any questions about our experience.  You can also  find out more information at their WWW site:  http://www.on-the-fly.com  Sincerely,    David Neils            3919 Benthaven Drive  Fort Collins, Colorado 80526

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:  Last July, my wife and I spent a fabulous week at a wilderness :  outpost cabin in the heart of British Columbia.  Our hosts were :  Rhonda and Duncan Stewart of Stewart’s Lodge and Camps.  This is stuff deleted… You can also call Rhonda or Duncan for a full color brochure/newsletter. This is well worth reading if you are planning a fly fishing adventure to Canada. Call 1-800-ON-THE-FLY Tell them I sent you. David Neils

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Question:

check out the fly fishing page at this site.  The fly fishing info changes on a monthly basis. http://www.accelerated.com  ::::::::::::::::::::<<< INTERNETWORKING THE DESKTOP ::::::::::::::::::::  John Loschky  SPRY, Inc.                          Phone: (206) 442-8225  316 Occidental Avenue South         FAX:   (206) 447-9008      Seattle, WA  98104                  http://www.spry.com  :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

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check out the fly fishing page at this site.  The fly fishing info changes on a monthly basis. http://www.accelerated.com

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