Question:

<snip Nice read, Sam. — TL, Tim

Response:

Howdy Sam     As a sometime resident of Pa. i have a camper in Coburn close to Penns Creek wife is from Scranton where would this lovely little stream be i would like to check it out. Email me if you want.                    Handyman Mike           Standing in a river waving a stick

Response:

I finished up my summer vacation at my boyhood home in eastern Pennsylvania late in the evening of July 3. I planned to rise before dawn on Independence Day and fish my favorite little creek. [HISTORIC ASIDE] I fished this creek as a boy some twenty five years earlier. Then, it was at best, marginal water.  Smelly, appearing nearly devoid of anything alive, and in places, algae nearly choked the stream due to phosphate pollution from industry far upstream. But it had trout, and I could walk there. Twenty five years ago that’s all I needed. In the intervening years, I went off to college, moved several times, got married, and had several jobs. I visited the creek whenever I got back home. Never to fish, just to try to recapture some of those boyhood memories I guess.  Over the past 6 or 7 years, I noticed that the smell had gone and so did the algae. Not surprising, since the upstream industry, and all the related jobs, disappeared. That is why most of my contemporaries and I left the area in the first place. Over the past 3 years, I was able to follow stocking reports, Pennsylvania state water reports and even fishing reports via the internet.  The stream was definitely on the mend. In fact, recently it was supposed to be removed from the list stocked streams due to a "Class B or better designation, and sizable wild trout population" according to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PAFBC). The decision to not stock was later reversed because of a public outcry. Knowing some of the history of this stream, and knowing some of the troubles of the PAFBC, I was skeptical to say the least. [END OF HISTORICAL ASIDE] Before dawn came and went (as it sometimes does) and I was still in bed. However, I was on the creek by 6:00am. It was already hot, opressively hot. I was to pay dearly for that extra hour of sleep. Should have gotten up at 4:30 like the alarm clock said. It was the tail end of week long 90+ degree streak. The water had a good flow but promised little relief from the heat. As I entered the water, I was pleasantly surprised by the cool press of my breathables against my bare legs.  Stream thermometer read 66 degrees, not too shabby! I waded upstream about 100 yards or so, and stood in an ankle deep riffle. I gazed upstream at a 50 yard stretch of knee deep flat water, with another riffle at the head. There were about a dozen fish rising in front of me.  I could not tell what they were feeding on, but I did notice that most of the bugs I saw were gray. So I tied on a #16 gray EHC. There were at least two fish between the biggest riseform and myself, and it was under a low hanging branch.  Not going to get that one. I decided to cast to the closest one, which I spooked after a few casts.  I crept forward to cast to the next one that was still feeding.  On the second cast, there was a kamakazee rise to my fly.  As I set the hook, I thought "little fish, big ones don’t crash that hard…probably not a trout anyway". I had it, or wait, did it have me? It was not quite the little fish I imagined. After a savage but brief fight, I brought a beautifully colored, fully finned, and yes, wild 15 inch brown trout to hand. After a quick and admiring look, I released it, and it darted upstream.  I was so happy I laughed out loud. I waited for about 15 minutes for the fish to start rising again, but they never did.  It was 7:45am, and the heat was intensifiying.  I briefly though of moving on upstream, but then thought I should just go home. Landing more fish on that day would make me no happier.

Response:

Question:

Hi, I haven’t received my flies yet Paul EARTHLINK SUCK

You were expecting the flies by e-mail?  I doubt it’s Earthlink’s problem. BTW – current plan is to be in NY Friday after all…  Fingers crossed and gear already in the car.

Response:

I haven’t received my flies yet

Mine parcel arrived today.  I spent quite some time going over all of the flies.  The flies already mentioned, as well as the rest, are indeed nice flies.  One in particular really jumped out at me.  The woven soft hackle Isonychia nymph tied by Glenn Tippy really caught my eye.  I guess I kind of have a fascination with woven bodied flies but have limited myself to larger patterns in the past.  I keep fly swap flies for examples in my own endeavors and I plan on replicating this one after the conclave when I have some time to get out and shop for the materials.  I am also thinking about some modifications for different species, etc.  Oustanding tie Glenn and thanks for the inspiration. — Warren Findley Remove (nospamZZ) to respond via email http://www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt/

Response:

Got home from vacation in NH today and found the package on top of the inevitable pile of junk mail.  Made taking the kayaks and canoe off the car, and all the other crap of unpacking, fly. Thanks to all. Glenn Tippy GKT

Response:

Joe, I also received my flies in great shape a couple of weeks ago.  Sorry for the long delay in letting you know.  I have been busy at work and in fishing so I have been away from the group for the last two weeks.  Thanks guys for the great ties!  I hope mine met with everyone’s expectations if not let me know and I will tie you a better one and send it off to you. Later Ed Bleck AKA Didymus

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Jay Peck is a friend of mine, a non – roffian, and  I invited him to join the swap.  He is from the Rochester area, and works as a guide at a fly shop there.  You must be, too, as is evidenced by your "Caledonia scud", no doubt intended for Spring Creek. Peter Collin Got the package of flies yesterday.  Looked them all over and everybody did a great job!  I am going fishing next week for 4 days and will be using them.  I am definitely going to try out that "Mink Coat" where I know it should work. Great job everybody Rob Hey Joe- Flies received safe and sound.  Good job.  Kudos to the swapmeister, and the flies are great as well. Who is Jay Peck, by the way (tied a burnt wing mayfly)?  Is he from the Rochester area? Scott Aha!  It is the same Jay– a talented guy.  I know he’s a fine tyer, and pretty well represented in pattern books dedicated to the Northeast.  He works out of Coleman’s (of Tony Germuga fame )  He’s a very talented guide and salmon and steelhead fisherman.  I think Rick Kustich also uses some of his photographs in his books. Peter–where do you fish?  Lets get together sometime when you’re in the area.  You’re dead-on about my poor excuse for a scud.  I would have tied them better if I knew Jay was going to see it!!  My understanding is that it was designed to hide the lead for way back when Spring Creek was no-lead. Another historical fly from that era was the "Nickel Nymph", which was tied on a huge hook.  I think that pattern called for Condor!!  I would love to get my hands on one of those flies. Scott

Response:

How did you get those? Those were extra flies I tied for the swap meister. I put them in an envelope that said swap meister on the front.

I’m back at the hotel & have only had one beer so far, so here’s the simple explanation:   I had everybody tie 25 flies so they would get one of their own back in the fly swap set.   That way, I didn’t have to keep track of who’s set was who’s.   However, a few guys miscounted & only sent 24.   For those guys, I put their name on the plastic cup, & skipped them when sorting their respective sets of flies.  They didn’t get one of their own, but everybody else did.   Simple so far, eh?  (If anyone didn’t get one of their own flies in the swap, that’s why.) Well, yours (Dave) was one of the first sets I sorted, & because you labelled those two little envelopes, I mentally assigned the first two cups to Paul Goodwin (photos) & myself (swapmeister).   I put the correct envelopes into the correct cups.   Then I came across the first set of 24 (instead of 25) & forgetting what I’d done earlier, I must have taped Peter’s name on the second cup since he was the first "swapper-specific" set.   Later on, to my surprise, it turned out that I too had miscounted (only 24) & had to put my name on a cup to skip as well.   Unfortunately, it was not the same cup I’d put your "Swapmeister" envelope in. Told you it was a simple explanation.  :-) Joe F. DDFS alum.

Response:

Would you like them back?  I’d hate to cheat the swapmeister!  Or is this like the ball games, where you get to keep the ones that go into the stands? Pete

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well, both were in the little manila envelope that said "swapmeister". But I didn’t know Joe was doing three patterns.  Maybe they were strays that somehow fell into the pile.  I’ll consider them a bonus. Oops.   I didn’t tie those (& from my hotel room here I can’t remember who did), but that swapper identified one envelope for the photos & one for me personally.   In my haste, I screwed up & sent that one to you (I remember how, but it’s too complicated before breakfast <g).  I pretty much packed the boxes, mailed ‘em, & headed out of town, so I wouldn’t have realized my mistake for a week or so.   If that’s my only screw up, I’ll be happy. Joe F. DDFSwapmeister (who figured out the internet connection in his hotel room)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Jay Peck is a friend of mine, a non – roffian, and  I invited him to join the swap.  He is from the Rochester area, and works as a guide at a fly shop there.  You must be, too, as is evidenced by your "Caledonia scud", no doubt intended for Spring Creek. Peter Collin Got the package of flies yesterday.  Looked them all over and everybody did a great job!  I am going fishing next week for 4 days and will be using them.  I am definitely going to try out that "Mink Coat" where I know it should work. Great job everybody Rob Hey Joe- Flies received safe and sound.  Good job.  Kudos to the swapmeister, and the flies are great as well. Who is Jay Peck, by the way (tied a burnt wing mayfly)?  Is he from the Rochester area? Scott

Aha!  It is the same Jay– a talented guy.  I know he’s a fine tyer, and pretty well represented in pattern books dedicated to the Northeast.  He works out of Coleman’s (of Tony Germuga fame )  He’s a very talented guide and salmon and steelhead fisherman.  I think Rick Kustich also uses some of his photographs in his books. Peter–where do you fish?  Lets get together sometime when you’re in the area.  You’re dead-on about my poor excuse for a scud.  I would have tied them better if I knew Jay was going to see it!!  My understanding is that it was designed to hide the lead for way back when Spring Creek was no-lead.   Another historical fly from that era was the "Nickel Nymph", which was tied on a huge hook.  I think that pattern called for Condor!!  I would love to get my hands on one of those flies. Scott

Response:

Jay Peck is a friend of mine, a non – roffian, and  I invited him to join the swap.  He is from the Rochester area, and works as a guide at a fly shop there.  You must be, too, as is evidenced by your "Caledonia scud", no doubt intended for Spring Creek. Peter Collin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Got the package of flies yesterday.  Looked them all over and everybody did a great job!  I am going fishing next week for 4 days and will be using them.  I am definitely going to try out that "Mink Coat" where I know it should work. Great job everybody Rob Hey Joe- Flies received safe and sound.  Good job.  Kudos to the swapmeister, and the flies are great as well. Who is Jay Peck, by the way (tied a burnt wing mayfly)?  Is he from the Rochester area? Scott

Response:

Got the package of flies yesterday.  Looked them all over and everybody did a great job!  I am going fishing next week for 4 days and will be using them.  I am definitely going to try out that "Mink Coat" where I know it should work. Great job everybody Rob

Hey Joe- Flies received safe and sound.  Good job.  Kudos to the swapmeister, and the flies are great as well. Who is Jay Peck, by the way (tied a burnt wing mayfly)?  Is he from the Rochester area? Scott

Response:

How did you get those? Those were extra flies I tied for the swap meister. I put them in an envelope that said swap meister on the front. Any ways the red one is an electric leach and the streamer is called cutt bait. The streamer is actually a saltwater pattern I use for sea run cutts and salmon but I figure there are green back minnows anywhere in the world. Later Dave —

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – There were two flies I go with no tag on them.  One was a red woolybuggery sort of  thing and the other was a chartreuse streamer.  Can anybody claim these? Peter Collin

Response:

Well, both were in the little manila envelope that said "swapmeister". But I didn’t know Joe was doing three patterns.  Maybe they were strays that somehow fell into the pile.  I’ll consider them a bonus.

Oops.   I didn’t tie those (& from my hotel room here I can’t remember who did), but that swapper identified one envelope for the photos & one for me personally.   In my haste, I screwed up & sent that one to you (I remember how, but it’s too complicated before breakfast <g).  I pretty much packed the boxes, mailed ‘em, & headed out of town, so I wouldn’t have realized my mistake for a week or so.   If that’s my only screw up, I’ll be happy. Joe F. DDFSwapmeister (who figured out the internet connection in his hotel room)

Response:

Well, both were in the little manila envelope that said "swapmeister".  But I didn’t know Joe was doing three patterns.  Maybe they were strays that somehow fell into the pile.  I’ll consider them a bonus. Peter Collin

Response:

Got the package of flies yesterday.  Looked them all over and everybody did a great job!  I am going fishing next week for 4 days and will be using them.  I am definitely going to try out that "Mink Coat" where I know it should work. Great job everybody Rob

Response:

I think my favorite was the Madame X.  It was tied very expertly, and is the kind of floating attractor that works well on my local streams. Peter Collin

Response:

!! Definitely an inspiration to improve upon my skills for the next swap to come. tight lines to all…… Thom Adams – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Got the package of flies yesterday.  Looked them all over and everybody did a great job!  I am going fishing next week for 4 days and will be using them.  I am definitely going to try out that "Mink Coat" where I know it should work. Great job everybody Rob

Response:

There were two flies I go with no tag on them.  One was a red woolybuggery sort of  thing and the other was a chartreuse streamer.  Can anybody claim these? Peter Collin

Response:

There were two flies I go with no tag on them.  One was a red woolybuggery sort of  thing and the other was a chartreuse streamer.  Can anybody claim these?

Hmmm, I don’t see those in my collection, so I’ll take a guess.  Since there’s no red anything in my box it might be mine.  Is it a pinkish orange foam body with a white comparadun style wing and a bushy brown tail?  If so, it’s my Orange Woof bluegill fly (some of them had green rubber legs, some didn’t).  The streamer might be Big Dale’s Foam Spider.  Does it have rubber legs?

Response:

I could be wrong, but I have some of Big D’s foam spiders and I don’t believe they would be considered streamers.  However, he could very well have tied a different type of foam spider pattern than I have, I guess? Op

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – There were two flies I go with no tag on them.  One was a red woolybuggery sort of  thing and the other was a chartreuse streamer.  Can anybody claim these? Hmmm, I don’t see those in my collection, so I’ll take a guess.  Since there’s no red anything in my box it might be mine.  Is it a pinkish orange foam body with a white comparadun style wing and a bushy brown tail?  If so, it’s my Orange Woof bluegill fly (some of them had green rubber legs, some didn’t).  The streamer might be Big Dale’s Foam Spider.  Does it have rubber legs?

Response:

I could be wrong, but I have some of Big D’s foam spiders and I don’t believe they would be considered streamers.  However, he could very well have tied a different type of foam spider pattern than I have, I guess? Op

I wouldn’t call it a streamer but it has a marabou tail and is the right color.  Nothing else really looks like a streamer except for Joe’s Madame X (bullethead deer hair) and Wayne’s Mink Coat. I’m hoping we can get Paul Goodwin to do pics next week which will end all speculation.  It’s in your court Paul, the database is set up. –Stan

Response:

Hi, I haven’t received my flies yet Paul EARTHLINK SUCK

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I could be wrong, but I have some of Big D’s foam spiders and I don’t believe they would be considered streamers.  However, he could very well have tied a different type of foam spider pattern than I have, I guess? Op I wouldn’t call it a streamer but it has a marabou tail and is the right color.  Nothing else really looks like a streamer except for Joe’s Madame X (bullethead deer hair) and Wayne’s Mink Coat. I’m hoping we can get Paul Goodwin to do pics next week which will end all speculation.  It’s in your court Paul, the database is set up. –Stan

Response:

Question:

_____  This is a great day to begin fly tying with my new NOR-VISE.  I suppose it can be said that fly tying and fly fishing for me goes far beyond being just a hobby.  Its a study in life itself, of temperament, the various sciences that range from hydrology (OH! There he goes!  He just floated right by us!) to entomology, the science of cements for repair waders that will now always leak, to how to pack a fly box using the Dewey Decimal/Alpabetical Filing System without going crazy.  It still seems, no matter what, you always find the fly you want in the last pocket of you 18 Pocket fly fishing vest . . . just before you drop it in the river. Arrrrrrggggggggguuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!! I am one of the those wise old hoots who enjoys his reverie and I suppose it comes from years astream packed with a million memories.  I like good music which to me is anything that wasn’t dictated by the "now generation".  I go way back.  When I say ‘way back’ I mean to the eras of Holiday with her sensual, provocative voice, to Stan Kenton, Dave Brubeck, the Dorsey’s, tunes like Sing, Sing, Sing, Elk’s Parade, Lullaby of Birdland, Cole Porter’s Old Black Magic, others such as Green Eyes, (done especially by Artie Shaw) laced with some of the finest concertos by Wolfgang Amadaus Mozart.  Naturally, fly tying requires a few more essentials but music and fly tying is the dubbing for my mind. I confess also that I am a lover of Port Wines and the Tawny brands suit me fine for I do not like overly sweet wines at all but I don’t like them bitter or any that lay flat on the tongue. It seems I cannot tie without a few bird dogs (my Llewellyn Setters) under the table but it comes not with a price.  I say this because it came to me these sounds of pleasure from under my table one day.  I dropped my hand down to get that familiar lick but it was not too be, so I slide my chair back a bit and look at my dog ‘Shotgun’ who has his chin laying upon my Jungle Cock neck, all slimed and in-between his paws.  His eyes look up to the top of his head as if saying, ‘no, you can’t have it!’ Well today, warm weather has come to my canyon and the sun dresses all the buds on the trees.  My canaries are singing their song of spring over the soft music.   Things are in harmony and my glass if full.   — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _____  This is a great day to begin fly tying with my new NOR-VISE.  I suppose it can be said that fly tying and fly fishing for me goes far beyond being just a hobby.  Its a study in life itself, of temperament, the various sciences that range from hydrology (OH! There he goes!  He just floated right by us!) to entomology, the science of cements for repair waders that will now always leak, to how to pack a fly box using the Dewey Decimal/Alpabetical Filing System without going crazy.  It still seems, no matter what, you always find the fly you want in the last pocket of you 18 Pocket fly fishing vest . . . just before you drop it in the river. Arrrrrrggggggggguuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!! I am one of the those wise old hoots who enjoys his reverie and I suppose it comes from years astream packed with a million memories.  I like good music which to me is anything that wasn’t dictated by the "now generation".  I go way back.  When I say ‘way back’ I mean to the eras of Holiday with her sensual, provocative voice, to Stan Kenton, Dave Brubeck, the Dorsey’s, tunes like Sing, Sing, Sing, Elk’s Parade, Lullaby of Birdland, Cole Porter’s Old Black Magic, others such as Green Eyes, (done especially by Artie Shaw) laced with some of the finest concertos by Wolfgang Amadaus Mozart.  Naturally, fly tying requires a few more essentials but music and fly tying is the dubbing for my mind. I confess also that I am a lover of Port Wines and the Tawny brands suit me fine for I do not like overly sweet wines at all but I don’t like them bitter or any that lay flat on the tongue. It seems I cannot tie without a few bird dogs (my Llewellyn Setters) under the table but it comes not with a price.  I say this because it came to me these sounds of pleasure from under my table one day.  I dropped my hand down to get that familiar lick but it was not too be, so I slide my chair back a bit and look at my dog ‘Shotgun’ who has his chin laying upon my Jungle Cock neck, all slimed and in-between his paws.  His eyes look up to the top of his head as if saying, ‘no, you can’t have it!’ Well today, warm weather has come to my canyon and the sun dresses all the buds on the trees.  My canaries are singing their song of spring over the soft music. Things are in harmony and my glass is full. — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

– (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – _____  This is a great day to begin fly tying with my new NOR-VISE.  I suppose it can be said that fly tying and fly fishing for me goes far beyond being just a hobby.  Its a study in life itself, of temperament, the various sciences that range from hydrology (OH! There he goes!  He just floated right by us!) to entomology, the science of cements for repair waders that will now always leak, to how to pack a fly box using the Dewey Decimal/Alpabetical Filing System without going crazy.  It still seems, no matter what, you always find the fly you want in the last pocket of your 18 Pocket fly fishing vest . . . just before you drop it in the river. Arrrrrrggggggggguuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!! I am one of the those wise old hoots who enjoys his reverie and I suppose it comes from years astream packed with a million memories.  I like good music which to me is anything that wasn’t dictated by the "now generation".  I go way back.  When I say ‘way back’ I mean to the eras of Holiday with her sensual, provocative voice, to Stan Kenton, Dave Brubeck, the Dorsey’s, tunes like Sing, Sing, Sing, Elk’s Parade, Lullaby of Birdland, Cole Porter’s Old Black Magic, others such as Green Eyes, (done especially by Artie Shaw) laced with some of the finest concertos by Wolfgang Amadaus Mozart.  Naturally, fly tying requires a few more essentials but music and fly tying is the dubbing for my mind. I confess also that I am a lover of Port Wines and the Tawny brands suit me fine for I do not like overly sweet wines at all but I don’t like them bitter or any that lay flat on the tongue. It seems I cannot tie without a few bird dogs (my Llewellyn Setters) under the table but it comes not without a price.  I say this because it came to me these sounds of pleasure from under my table one day.  I dropped my hand down to get that familiar lick but it was not too be, so I slide my chair back a bit and look at my dog ‘Shotgun’ who has his chin laying upon my Jungle Cock neck, all slimed and in-between his paws.  His eyes look up to the top of his head as if saying, ‘no, you can’t have it!’ Well today, warm weather has come to my canyon and the sun dresses all the buds on the trees.  My canaries are singing their song of spring over the soft music. Things are in harmony and my glass if full. — (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

– (C) George Gehrke 2001 http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html     fine bamboo flyrods & blanks

Response:

Question:

What happened to my original thread?

Response:

What is a boobie? Buzzer?

Hi Michael, A Booby is a particular type of lure, I’m surprised no-one has described one sooner. Take for example a Black Booby. Hook            Long shank #10 Tail            Black marabou Body            Black chenille with silver rib   Hackle          Black cock The Booby bit           Two polystyrene/ ethafoam beads about 3/16" diam tied at the eye of the hook. The beads are encased in a small piece of nylon stocking and tied in with a figure of 8 whipping (better still a piece of surgical rubber such as condom rubber – waterproof see!) Fished on a very short leader, about 18" with a fast sink line. Allow to sink to the bottom and retrieve slowly. Takes can be vicious. As a method of fishing, I agree with one contributor to this thread, it is boring, but just the thing when you want a bit of a rest to sip that single malt. — Bill http://www.graigroad.demon.co.uk

Response:

<snip questions answered by Michael 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink?

Probably a bit dirty. Clean it with a very mild detergent solution, rinse well then treat it with Mucilin. 6. … How about Boobies?

Don’t know anything about UK boobies, but here in the states if you want boobies, especially the gorgeous, perky young ones, it’s best to troll with a late model sports car. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Nice one!

Response:

Sometimes you just don’t know the depth to fish. In that case I use a sinking line (they sink at different rates, so make certain you know your line). On the first few casts I’ll let it sink for 5 seconds before I start retrieving. I then go to 10 seconds and so forth until I find the correct depth.  Not as scientific as some methods,  but it usually works if you have enough patience. DLH – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 1. Any general rules for depth  (when I cant see the fish) Depth will primarily depend on what the fish are feeding on, and the temperature of the water.  On a hot summer day, you often get a layer of very warm water on top, and cool water underneath.  In winter you get the opposite effect.  Fish will therefore be deep.  (How deep will depend on lake and feeding behavior).  While in early spring, optimum temperatures will be in the top layer, as in late fall.  At some times of the year, fish can be anywhere in the water column. 2. Any general hotspots Generally fish hang out where there is 1) food; 2) optimum temperature; 3) protection from predators.  Typical hotspots include: — in spring fed lakes, in summer, springholes where cool water enters the lake, producing optimum temperatures — inlets, where incoming streams wash in food and/or produce optimum temperatures — drop offs which provide deep water protection with easy access to shallows holding bait fish for food. 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink? Beats me. 4. How do I guess what colour buzzer etc to use? Is a buzzers a streamer/bucktail?  Try to check out baitfish in lake. If you can’t determine, start with something close to the bottom color, e.g. brown, olive. 5. Does the size of fly depend on lake size? Not necessarily. 6. Is it easier to catch with a lure/ streamer than nymph or buzzer? How about Boobies? What is a boobie? Buzzer? Michael — www.geocities.com/yosemite/falls/3363 Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Don’t know anything about UK boobies, but here in the states if you want boobies, especially the gorgeous, perky young ones, it’s best to troll with a late model sports car.

Cash works as well as the sports car Ken, and its a great deal less bulky, but somehow I’ve managed to lose the manual on how to acquire either.  Can you help me out here?

Response:

… I’ve managed to lose the manual on how to acquire either.  Can you help me out here?

Buy low, sell high. Hope this helps. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

1. Any general rules for depth  (when I cant see the fish)

Use a weigted nymph or streamer ( lure )  and "count down"  until you get a strike.  Technique is cast, count until bottom is felt, retrieve. Cast again, count minus ten ad retrieve etc.  This works best with sinking lines, but will also wortk with nymphs etc on a very long leader. 2. Any general hotspots

Around sunken hedges and similar, it takes a while to get to know the hotspots on stillwaters.  One tip though, do not fish with the wind at your back just because it is comfortable. Fish into the wind, and try the margins first before wading in etc. If the prevailing wind has been in the same direction for some time lots of surface food etc will be very close to the bank opposite to the direction the wind is blowing. A woolly bugger or wormfly or stick fly drawn over the stones etc especially in a slight wave right in the margins is usually successful. Dont forget to try dry flies, Chew and Blagdon are noted for the good surface activity. Hoppers, and similar are a good bet. 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink?

It may be dirty, clean it with warm soapy water. Most things from Airflo are rubbish, includng their lines and rods. Buy a Cortland !!!!!!! 4. How do I guess what colour buzzer etc to use?

Try black first, then brown , then green then red, or fish a team to start with and use the one that gets the most hits. It is also possible to see buzzers hatching, take a small pair of binoculars along, and scan the water carefully. The shucks from the last hatch will ofetn be floating in the margins, and also check the spiders webs on the bushes in the area, these will have example of the last hatches stuck in them. Saves a lot of guesswork. Also you can ask one of the regulars, they are usually happy to help. Just dont clump up like a bloody elephant and disturb anyones fishing. Wait if necessary until they stop for a smoke or something. 5. Does the size of fly depend on lake size?

No, it depends on the size of the natural which you wish to imitate. Lake size is immaterial. Buzzers vary in size considerably, but sizes 12 14 and 16 are common. A snipe and purple and a partridge and orange are also excellent buzzer imitations, and catch remarkably well. 6. Is it easier to catch with a lure/ streamer than nymph or buzzer? How about Boobies?

Depends what you mean by easy. Lure fishing means continuous long casting with basically a fish imitation. It is sometimes very successful, sometimes not.  Buzzers ( midge pupae, Chironomid = non biting midges )  are usually fished static, or at least evyr slowly indeed,in the surface film. Booby fishing is usually quite deadly, technique = sinking line, short leader, no more than three feet, and down to ten inches. Cast sinking line out, allow to sink to bottom, retrieve in short pulls which causes the foam headed booby to dive towards the bottom like a fry heading for shelter. Bright fluorescent boobies work well for rainbows, more sober colours, black brown etc for browns. The technique is effective but boring. Tight lines ! Mike Connor

Response:

<snip questions answered by Michael 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink? Probably a bit dirty. Clean it with a very mild detergent solution, rinse well then treat it with Mucilin.

Hi Ken, I would beg to differ, you should on no account treat modern floating lines with Mucilin, this will damage the coating. If a dressing is required Cortland line dressing is about the best. TL MC

Response:

Hi Ken, I would beg to differ, you should on no account treat modern floating lines with Mucilin, this will damage the coating. If a dressing is required Cortland line dressing is about the best.

Hmm. There are two Mucilins. The red Mucilin is mostly animal fat and has never hurt any of my lines so far as I can tell. The green Mucilin is a silicone paste and I’m not familiar with it. I find the Cortland to be somewhat hard to apply because it tends to clump up and make a mess. Have you tried the PZ Plasticiser ? I haven’t but it sounds good. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

<SNIPPED Have you tried the PZ Plasticiser ? I haven’t but it sounds good. — Ken Fortenberry

Hi Ken, I spoke to the former president of Cortland not long ago on this very subject. He confirmed that dressings, other than those recommended by the manufacturer, should be avoided.  At one time it was of no particular consequence, as long as you avoided petrochemical derivatives and one or two chemicals like DEET, and some suntan lotions  or similar. Nowadays the line coatings are so complex that it is best to avoid dressings at all if you are not sure what to use. The possibilites are in the meantime endless, even not taking things like albolene,  rain-x, vaseline,   and God knows what else into account, I do not use these, simply because I do not know what is in them, and what effect it may have on my line. I do not doubt for one second that some of them work very well.  The Cortland dressing is the best I have found up to now, I wash my lines after every outing in warm soapy water, let them dry,to the floaters I then apply a thin coat of the Cortland stuff by pulling the line slowly through the applicator and buff it off again using a soft cloth.  Never had a problem, and I have some lines that are well over ten years old and still in regular use. I have some even older ones as well, but they are a bit stiff, so I dont use them anymore. Some pastes contain solvents besides the dressing, this will at first do no obvious harm to the line, but after a while the plasticizers will be leeched out and small cracks will start to appear, shortly after that the line becomes useless.  I have seen lines damaged very badly after only being used a dozen times, it was not always possible to find out why, and may in fact have been faulty lines occasionally, but in the main the damage was due to incorrect line dressing or contamination, and on several occasions heat stress, or fume damage ( line left in boot [trunk] of car with petrol [gas] tanks etc ), fine grit adhering to some line dressings will also damage a line very quickly indeed, which would not happen if there was no dressing on it. I can see no point in buying a nice expensive line and then using some cheap dressing of largely unknown content and efficiency on it.  I dont put olive oil in my car engine either, although this would work, and be cheaper, but with what effects and for how long ? I buy the best engine oil I can get which the manufacturer recommends. While it is probable that the potential damage done by certain products is minimal, why take the chance ?  For the same reason I dont use the plasticizer products, they contain solvents which contain the plasticizers, and these may have a deleterious effect on the line with time. The plasticizer content in most modern products is designed to last the normal useful life of the product, it is unlikely that additives will extend this useful life by much if at all. The plasticizers added at manufacture are an integral component  of the plastic, those added at a later stage will only affect the surface of the line if at all, deep penetration would require a transport medium such as a solvent, and there you have "catch 22" again. I know a guy who uses bacon fat to treat his line and his leaders and his flies when necessary, and he swears the "flavour" helps as well, he may be right, but I think I will stick to my method for the time being. Tight lines ! Mike Connor

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it’s dirty….clean it with a soft soap..treat it with cortland or airflo dressin, and wallah…as new. the airflo 7000ts is a fine and genuine hi-tech fly line for y2k and beyond. if you ain’t fished it… your loss. a blatant advertisement brought to you by the likes of that dastardly self promoter, laurie and jo wooer, dahlwhinnie sipper this fine eve (thanks t.), and general rascal, wataugan walt… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – <snip questions answered by Michael 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink? Probably a bit dirty. Clean it with a very mild detergent solution, rinse well then treat it with Mucilin. Hi Ken, I would beg to differ, you should on no account treat modern floating lines with Mucilin, this will damage the coating. If a dressing is required Cortland line dressing is about the best. TL MC

– 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:

1. Any general rules for depth  (when I cant see the fish) 2. Any general hotspots 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink? 4. How do I guess what colour buzzer etc to use? 5. Does the size of fly depend on lake size? 6. Is it easier to catch with a lure/ streamer than nymph or buzzer? How about Boobies? Thanks in advance

Response:

1. Any general rules for depth  (when I cant see the fish)

Depth will primarily depend on what the fish are feeding on, and the temperature of the water.  On a hot summer day, you often get a layer of very warm water on top, and cool water underneath.  In winter you get the opposite effect.  Fish will therefore be deep.  (How deep will depend on lake and feeding behavior).  While in early spring, optimum temperatures will be in the top layer, as in late fall.  At some times of the year, fish can be anywhere in the water column. 2. Any general hotspots

Generally fish hang out where there is 1) food; 2) optimum temperature; 3) protection from predators.  Typical hotspots include: — in spring fed lakes, in summer, springholes where cool water enters the lake, producing optimum temperatures — inlets, where incoming streams wash in food and/or produce optimum temperatures — drop offs which provide deep water protection with easy access to shallows holding bait fish for food. 3. Why does my Airflo 7000 floating line start to sink?

Beats me. 4. How do I guess what colour buzzer etc to use?

Is a buzzers a streamer/bucktail?  Try to check out baitfish in lake. If you can’t determine, start with something close to the bottom color, e.g. brown, olive. 5. Does the size of fly depend on lake size?

Not necessarily. 6. Is it easier to catch with a lure/ streamer than nymph or buzzer? How about Boobies?

What is a boobie? Buzzer? Michael — www.geocities.com/yosemite/falls/3363 Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

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Question:

FFGuy wrote 7) 3 liters of water, platypus with bite valve

Aside from being a furry little guy with a duck bill, what’s a platypus? —                                                       -dnc-

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FFGuy wrote 7) 3 liters of water, platypus with bite valve Aside from being a furry little guy with a duck bill, what’s a platypus?

It’s a water bladder.  Basically an extremely tough plastic bag with a tube and a valve that you bite down on to drink the water.  As you can’t tell from my horrible description, they are a pretty cool invention.  They are nearly indestructable, insulated, and can carry a relatively large amount of water conveniently.  I use one (actually a generic equivalent) while fishing, hiking, biking, boarding, etc. Later,      - Ken — "During my service in the United States Congress, I took the  initiative in creating the Internet."  - Al Gore

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Here is my top ten Excluding Rod,Reel and Line 1    Flask of Coffee 2    Cheese Sandwiches 3    Cigars 4    Lighter 5    Bow Net 6    Sportsclip Tool 7    Solarshield Glasses 8    Gink 9    Floating Fly Box (inc flies) 10  Waders

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I got into fly fishing during the last year.  soon after my soon to be father-in-law became interested also.  naturally we go fishing together. I bring every possible fishing gadget I can carry, He on the other hand is a brings a rod.  I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water. What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

Get an average sized fanny pack or a vest with only a few pockets, and then only take what you can fit in it.  Limited carry capacity is great aid to self-discipline.  Besides, you’ll look real neat and tidy to the daddy-in-law. Cheers Visit The Streamer Page at http://www.cgocable.net/~pcharles/index.html

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I’ll assume you’re talking about fly fishing in a river/stream and about EQUIPMENT, not supplies. So here’s my list in order of importance: 1)Rod/Reel, 2)Vest, 3)Glasses or flip-focals(for seeing), 4)Waders, 5)Polarized sun glasses, 6)Hat. 7)Fanny Pack. Any other item I consider a supply and should fit into #2 or #7 above.

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Just thought of a take-off on the saying Lee Wulff coined regarding C & R. "Limit what you carry. Don’t carry your limit!" What do you think?

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8.  Drying crystals (dessicant).

This has to be the least entrant for the top ten. — something bogus to avoid spam)

Response:

absorbent paper towels that are FREE in the service station work swell.  Just squeeze the wet and hopefully chewed up and slimy fly with a piece of one and dress with Aequel or Daves bug Float or Blue Ribbon Super Dry Fly Float or SA dry fly floatant or Loon easy Dry or Hydrostop or Albolene and get back to fishing.

man, you’re slippin. you forgot GINK. you know, why go on the river with those lesser quality floatants when you can have the best. thats GINK, the best damn floatant your hard-earned money can buy. here, i’ll spell it out for you, G-I-N-K. i’ll share a little known roff secret with ya pal. the inventor of GINK is a once-in-a-blue-moon poster here at roff. if you ask him nicely, i’d bet my last dollar he would send you a complimentary bottle of GINK. waldo the omnipotent flytier and man about stream

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i’d bet my last dollar he would send you a complimentary bottle …

I’ll take THAT bet. Think he’d send me one too ? The absolute best thing to use for drying a wet dry fly is an Amadou. Among the many semi-liquids, Dave’s Bug Float is the best. — Ken Fortenberry

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8.  Drying crystals (dessicant). This has to be the least entrant for the top ten.

Oops, that makes no sense. I meant to write the "least likely entrant." — something bogus to avoid spam)

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Ten most important beside the obvious rod/reel/waders with belt: 1. Polarized shades. 2.  Bill hat with flip down magnifiers. 3.  Fly box with "hatches" in dries and nymphs. 4.  Extra leader and 3 sizes of tippet depending on what kind of fishing. 5.  Nippers. 6.  Rain gear, preferably Goretex. 7.  Wading staff.  (Goes along with the flip down mags – I’m old) and water bottle. 8.  Drying crystals (dessicant). 9.  Hemostats. 10.  Landing net. There has to be room also for a can of V-eye-eeeeena Sausages. Of course my list is like going through the express line at the super market — 10 items or less.  And the woman behind me swears under her breath because I have 15.  <G Dave LaCourse

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License.  Nothing worse than haveing to try some place to buy a license earl in the am for some dufuss that forgot to get one the night before. Drying crystals?  Those neat blue and highly absorbent paper towels that are FREE in the service station work swell.  Just squeeze the wet and hopefully chewed up and slimy fly with a piece of one and dress with Aequel or Daves bug Float or Blue Ribbon Super Dry Fly Float or SA dry fly floatant or Loon easy Dry or Hydrostop or Albolene and get back to fishing. Ten most important beside the obvious rod/reel/waders with belt:

snip 8.  Drying crystals (dessicant).

snip Dave LaCourse

– Mike in PDX "When the trout are lost, smash the state."                          Tom McGuane

Response:

i’d bet my last dollar he would send you a complimentary bottle … I’ll take THAT bet. Think he’d send me one too ?

        there’s another bet you’d lose, forty.  george is among the most generous men i’ve ever met.  it’s just that he will have a helluva time locating you, under all those damn rocks. wayno – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -The absolute best thing to use for drying a wet dry fly is an Amadou. Among the many semi-liquids, Dave’s Bug Float is the best. — Ken Fortenberry

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  george is among the most generous men i’ve ever met.  it’s just that he will have a helluva time locating you, under all those damn rocks.

A most generous spammer is still a spammer. Your thing with the rocks is tiresome. Surely a wisecracking wiseacre of your prodigious abilities can do better than to repeat yourself to the point of self parody. — Ken Fortenberry

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1. rod, reel & line (duh..) 2. flybox. 1 wheatley(model) should do if you know the water 3. sunglasses 4. pliers 5. some float & sink stuff 6. leaders & extra tippet material 7. hat 8. net 9. raincoat 10. basic first aid And now it’s time to take my own advice.. Cheers, Herman I got into fly fishing during the last year.  soon after my soon to be father-in-law became interested also.  naturally we go fishing together. I bring every possible fishing gadget I can carry, He on the other hand is a brings a rod.  I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water. What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

– Cheers, Herman Herman Nijland Daytime webmaster Lifetime flyfisher

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Be sure to have a couple of the Holdzit Tool Saver holsters and a gink holder dangling from your vest.  The Tool Saver will keep your hook file and forcepts rust free and your gink handy.  Check the Holdzit Fishing Products site out at http://www.holdzit.com Sharp Hooks, Pat I got into fly fishing during the last year.  soon after my soon to be father-in-law became interested also.  naturally we go fishing together. I bring every possible fishing gadget I can carry, He on the other hand is a brings a rod.  I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water. What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

Response:

I am a beliver in keeping things simple and light. Here is what I pack: 1.  One fly box with drys and nymphs combined.  If I loose that many flys then I should proceed back to camp and have a beer to forget about the crappy day fishing. 2.  Leader/tippet material. 3.  Fishing hat-  it’s tradition. 4.  First aid kit/ thermal blanket 5.  Rod/reel 6.  Snack for emergency situations. 7.  clippers.

Response:

What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

1) Camera 2) A book 3) Some Flies 4) Rod -n- reel 5) Tippet -n- leader 6) Nailclippers 7) Water Munchies 9) T.P. 10) Polarized sunglasses!!! Later,      - Ken — "During my service in the United States Congress, I took the  initiative in creating the Internet."  - Al Gore

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1. Consolidated fly box 2. polarized sunglasses 3. tippet material 4. various sized split shot 5. rod 6. reel 7. fly floatant 10. waders if you really want to travel light, these are all you need (I didn’t include "vest", because everything fits inside it.).  items 9, and 10 might be: 9. camera 10. strike indicators Pete C

Response:

I got into fly fishing during the last year.  soon after my soon to be father-in-law became interested also.  naturally we go fishing together. I bring every possible fishing gadget I can carry, He on the other hand is a brings a rod.  I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water. What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

 Required-rod reel line leader/tippet flies. Extras-spare tippet material, swiss army knife (in belt sheath), spare leaders, camera, net, vest, soap, towel, pliers(needle nosed). Of coarse variations due to water fished and locale are to be considered, for instance in some of the areas I frequent I carry a side arm due to the over abundance of cotton mouths. I probably carry an over abundance of flies unless I’ve been there the day before and conditions haven’t changed. Bear in mind That I fish Florida waters from the bank where snags are a given and fish for bream and bass so there are times when rod/reel selection changes.                                                            John Popp                                                          in Sanford Fl.

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I feel I show up a little light, I have desired but have never needed more stuff.  My vest is packed with the following: 1) 4 fly boxes, each holds 90 flys 2) 3 tippet spools 3) # 6 split shot 4) 4 spare tapered leaders varying length and weight 5) Hemostats 6) Nippers, keeps the dentist off my back 7) 3 liters of water, platypus with bite valve Toilet paper, keeps skid marks to a minimum 9) Gink, keeps George happy 10) Bug net Plus the required stuff wide brim hat, waders, boots, Rod/Reel and a good attitude Al Simpson – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

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I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water.

I suggest you just cut down on the number of soon to be father in laws. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

I got into fly fishing during the last year.  soon after my soon to be father-in-law became interested also.  naturally we go fishing together. I bring every possible fishing gadget I can carry, He on the other hand is a brings a rod.  I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water. What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

Response:

I got into fly fishing during the last year.  soon after my soon to be father-in-law became interested also.  naturally we go fishing together. I bring every possible fishing gadget I can carry, He on the other hand is a brings a rod.  I know I’m carrying 10 more pounds to the stream than he is. He takes every opportunity to point this out.  This spring I plan to cut down on the number of tools I carry to the water. What are the 10 most important items you all would take to the water for a day a fly fishing?

        don’t know that i would take that many items, but i’ll just start listing:         1. small box of flies, about a dozen dries, maybe six or eight nymphs.  patterns would vary, depending upon weather, time of year, stream chosen.         2.  fingernail clippers         3.  couple extra leaders         4.  couple spools of tippet material         5.  gink         6.  hook forcepts, or whatever you call them         7.  strike indicators         8.  lightweight knife         9.  can of tuna and some mustard, plastic utensils         10.  olympus compact 35mm camera         well, i’ll be damned.  there were ten items. wayno – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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Question:

Beginning angler, need advice: What would be best live/artificial Baits to catch Catfish & Bass? What should be the best locations in the streams (no current, fast current, ponds, depths, etc…) where Catfish or Bass are concentrated? Thank you very much indeed.

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Brian, I haven’t done alot of catfishing but I ran across a guy the other day and he said he uses a product called junnies (do a search on the web). he said he bought the stuff off the internet and that a catfish guide told him about it he stated that the guide had the maker come fishing with him and they caught 10 to 1 (maker vs. guide). I do alot of creek fishing and catch alot of bass. I use a lure by rebel called a creek hopper. On a good day I catch and relese about 30 (1/2lb to 1 1/2lds) bass and no telling how many sunfish. you can also check: <A HREF="http:www.tn-outdoors.comtn-outdoors.com</A for other fishing and hunting articles. happy fishing Larry

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I have found that a ball of chicken liver on a medium size treble hook works well in most situations. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Beginning angler, need advice: What would be best live/artificial Baits to catch Catfish & Bass? What should be the best locations in the streams (no current, fast current, ponds, depths, etc…) where Catfish or Bass are concentrated? Thank you very much indeed.

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I have a question:  how do you get the chicken livers to stay on the hook.  I got some fresh chicken livers to use for bait and they were the consistancy of mush.  I would have had a better chance of trying to put grape jelly on the hook.  I have heard you can freeze them but this seems like a messy job.   Any suggestions you can give would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have found that a ball of chicken liver on a medium size treble hook works well in most situations. Beginning angler, need advice: What would be best live/artificial Baits to catch Catfish & Bass? What should be the best locations in the streams (no current, fast current, ponds, depths, etc…) where Catfish or Bass are concentrated? Thank you very much indeed.

Response:

I have found that a ball of chicken liver on a medium size treble hook works well in most situations.

BBBbbbbbbut chicken liver flies right off the hook when you’re fly fishing.  Fresh pork skin is the best way for the fly fisherman —  * Center for Computational Biology  * Montana State Bozeman  (406) 994-7061  * http://www.nervana.montana.edu/~sandy */

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Hey…. Martha Stuart of Flyfishing <g <g <g Yuk Yuk Yuk !!! Are you still using the Hot Glue gun to tie your flies (I just came across your article from the Disco era) ?. I (obviously) found it amusing as hell….sorry…<g I also saw your foam nymphs in the Umpqua book…congratulations… — TimW Halfordian Golfer

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You can use strips cut from pantyhose to wrap the chicken livers in prior to placing them on the hook.  This keeps the bait on the hook but still lets the scent and blood reach the fish. A couple tips: – Cutting the pantyhose into strips prior to going fishing will spare you a significant amount of hastle from your fishing buddies. – Be careful when inserting a hook with a large barb.  It is not easy to stick the hook through the fabric.  Or better yet mash the barb down somewhat. – Let the wrapped liver soak in blood before you hurl it at the catfish. – I’ll leave the acquisition of the aforementioned garments to you.  Your wife may worry if she catches you rifling through her dresser. Good luck – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a question:  how do you get the chicken livers to stay on the hook.  I got some fresh chicken livers to use for bait and they were the consistancy of mush.  I would have had a better chance of trying to put grape jelly on the hook.  I have heard you can freeze them but this seems like a messy job.   Any suggestions you can give would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

Response:

FROM, ANDRE !   I OFTEN TRY SEWING THREAD WITH MY CHICKEN LIVER, SIMPLY PUT THE LIVER ON A TRI -HOOK  AND PROCEED TO RAP IT ABOUT 10 TIMES ,  THAT ALWAYS WORKS FOR ME.

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Question:

I recently broke the fly rod that I grew up fishing – an 8 ft 8 wt fiberglass Shakespeare.  I need to replace it and want a rod that I will not "out grow".  I have considered an L.L. Bean guide series 9 ft, 7 or 8 wt at about $200 with a lifetime unconditional guarantee.  I also saw a 9 ft 8 wt Loomis IMX recently for $275 on a close-out.  The Loomis cast very nicely.  I have not felt the Bean rod but have always been very happy with their products. Any advice would be appreciated.  How much better is the Loomis & is it worth the extra money?  Has anyone used the Bean rod? I grew up fishing for pickerel and bass in Delaware, but I primarily fish for Steelhead and smallmouth bass since moving to California and would like to do some Shad fishing.

Response:

Check out the St. Croix Products I Think For your money they rate up their with poles hundreds of $ more. — Larry D. Madison Life without Black would surely make White blind You. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I recently broke the fly rod that I grew up fishing – an 8 ft 8 wt fiberglass Shakespeare.  I need to replace it and want a rod that I will not "out grow".  I have considered an L.L. Bean guide series 9 ft, 7 or 8 wt at about $200 with a lifetime unconditional guarantee.  I also saw a 9 ft 8 wt Loomis IMX recently for $275 on a close-out.  The Loomis cast very nicely.  I have not felt the Bean rod but have always been very happy with their products. Any advice would be appreciated.  How much better is the Loomis & is it worth the extra money?  Has anyone used the Bean rod? I grew up fishing for pickerel and bass in Delaware, but I primarily fish for Steelhead and smallmouth bass since moving to California and would like to do some Shad fishing.

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Question:

I’m planning a steelhead trip on the Eel last week in January.  Would appreciate any advice, including flies to use, etc. Thanks, David

Response:

I’m planning a steelhead trip on the Eel last week in January.  Would appreciate any advice, including flies to use, etc. Thanks, David

Call the Eureka Fly Shop in Eureka. William Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY

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Correction, give the wrong site, try the following for northern california coast rivers. http://www.northcoastweb.com/fishing/ Mike

Response:

I’m planning a steelhead trip on the Eel last week in January.  Would appreciate any advice, including flies to use, etc. Thanks, David

Cast on over to Northern California Fly Fishing for some good info.  http://www2.ecst.csuchico.edu:80/~jschlich/Flyfish/flyfish.html Mike

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Question:

I read the article in the December issue of Fly Fisherman magazine by Tom Earnhardt on fishing for False Albacore off the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The article definitely got me excited, as Earnhardt claims peak fishing months are October and November. Furthermore, he also states several times in the article that it is not necessarily an advantage to have a boat to catch these fish…that many can be caught wading near inlets. My question is, can anybody out there confirm Earnhardt’s information? A friend and I are seriously considering a long weekend trip down there in November, but we sure don’t want to go all that way to wade and catch nothing! (Hiring a boat is simply not possible on our limited budgets.) Thanks, and if you haven’t read the article, check it out! Scott Wilkinson Bethesda, Maryland

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Scott, Tom’s article is correct, sometimes … In the Outer Banks, you can see an incredible range of conditions and therefore widely varying fishing situations, but for the most part, you will be able to cast to a catch albies from the beach. I would suggest contacting a local shop or two in the area you intend to travel to, and find out if the fish have been close in before you go. Try the Hatteras area, the Morehead City area and/or Harkers Island. All can be real hot spots when the fish are bitin’. Good luck, and hang on! Tom Dougherty – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I read the article in the December issue of Fly Fisherman magazine by Tom Earnhardt on fishing for False Albacore off the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The article definitely got me excited, as Earnhardt claims peak fishing months are October and November. Furthermore, he also states several times in the article that it is not necessarily an advantage to have a boat to catch these fish…that many can be caught wading near inlets. My question is, can anybody out there confirm Earnhardt’s information? A friend and I are seriously considering a long weekend trip down there in November, but we sure don’t want to go all that way to wade and catch nothing! (Hiring a boat is simply not possible on our limited budgets.) Thanks, and if you haven’t read the article, check it out! Scott Wilkinson Bethesda, Maryland

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… on fishing for False Albacore off the Outer Banks of North Carolina…

Scott, My son and I were at Harker’s Island this past Sunday.  Breezy, cold and sunny.  A weather front had gone through the following day and the Albert "pop-ups" were scattered.  About 17 boats/rods were FFing most of the day in the Cape Lookout area both inside and outside the "hook."  Some of the big dogs in SWFF were there.  Some folks were flipping spinning rods.  We learned of one fish hooked up all day.  I’ve been in the "hook" on days in November when the entire surface was alive with fish.  Some days you get ‘em, some days you don’t.  A boat would GREATLY improve your chances.  If you come, try to plan several days of fishing to give yourself a shot at one day when everything is "right." Our one day was still better than sitting at home!  You can call John Martyn at Sea and Stream in Durham, NC for info on current fishing conditions (919-403-1604).  He also can put you in touch with Bill Harris or one of the other FF guides in the area if you decide to go that way.  John or Bill would probably give you more accurate, last-minute info about on-the-water conditions than the locals at Morehead or Harker’s. Good fishing!  J. Rice

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Question:

If you fish, boat, camp, hunt or anything to do with the great

outdoors and have friends that do the same, why not start your  OWN business with little or know cost to you? < The IRS does make a distinction between a hobby business and a real business. You may be asked to demonstrate that it is a real business and not just supporting your hobby. Just because you have the legal paperwork that shows it to be a "business" doesn’t mean that the IRS has to accept it. The small tax savings will be more than offset by the cost of an audit. You are just making yourself a target.

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My name in Norm Larsen and I’d like to tell you a fishing story!! A couple of week ago a friend of mine came to me and asked me if I fished, I said sure I fish, why? Well he said: " if I could show you how you can deduct your fishing, camping, boating and hunting expenses from your income tax AND earn an income would you like to here about it? That was a no-brainer  for me, so I asked him to show it to me. He proceeded to show me of the most  interesting companies I had ever seen, The companies called Champion Fishing    Co.  based out of  Texas. They have a 197 page catalog that is full of outdoor  equipment. All name brand gear like Mitchell, Fenwick, Remmington etc. By October of this year they’ll have golfing, mountain bike and organized sporting equipment too!! I thought it made since to buy my gear from myself than from someone else! They have the simplest compensation plans I have ever seen too! There’s no start-up fees, no inventory, no quota’s , no organizational  tracking and no weekend deliveries!! Everything is shipped direct to the buyer. The recreational fishing industry is a $69.4 BILLION dollar a year business with 60 million people. That doesn’t include the Pro- Fishing industry, boating, camping or hunting!! Champion Fishing Co. has been growing at a fantastic rate. The number of reps has tripled since last October. Some states only have a few reps so were talking ground floor, "once in a life time opportunity"! If you fish, boat, camp, hunt or anything to do with the great outdoors and have friends that do the same, why not start your  OWN business with little or know cost to you? If would like more info on this program, please contact me by return email with your address and I’ll send you some info. If you give me your phone number I’ll call you a week or so after I send to answer any questions you may have. Sincerely, Norm Larsen

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