Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dad and Charlie have developed a lovely new habit.  It seems that Charlie likes to curl up around Dad’s head when he goes to sleep.  So when Dad wakes up, he is likely to wake up with a cat literally on his head.  So sweet.  You think. How adorable.  I wish my cat would be that cuddly, you wish. THEN…Charlie lets go of one of his trademark silent releases of gas.  Now, don’t get me wrong, this is one of the sweetest cats going, but that cat is rotten inside. When he releases gas, it can make the entire room toxic.  So imagine Dad’s delight when he is laying there and Charlie is so very close to he smelly parts.  Dad says it is enough to make him cry sometimes.  As long as Charlie keeps his farts to himself, as my father says it, it feels all cuddly wuddly.  Otherwise he wonders if he is part of some chemical warfare. Thought I would share.  And as for Dad exagerrating – he ain’t.  That cat can clear me out of a room! Bridget

LOL! Thank you for that Bridget. I hope you and your Dad have a lovely day. Jeanette

Response:

It seems Charlie and Marble are related. I reckon that in the case of Marble, he has several dead mice stuck up his rear end, festering away which cause the smell. I’m expecting the military to be "adopting" Marble for extract of cat fart to be the next generation nerve gas ;-P Festive cheers, helen s Flush out that intestinal parasite and/or the waste product before sending a reply! Any speeliong mistake$ aR the resiult of my cats sitting on the keyboaRRRDdd

Response:

Thought I would share.  And as for Dad exagerrating – he ain’t.  That cat can

clear me out of a room! Bridget

But can he clear your sinuses? Suz Iron Chef Macmoosette Thank Heavens There’s Only One =^..^=   =^..^=   =^..^=   =^..^=  =^..^=  =^..^= Chocolate heals all wounds.                  

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dad and Charlie have developed a lovely new habit.  It seems that Charlie likes to curl up around Dad’s head when he goes to sleep.  So when Dad wakes up, he is likely to wake up with a cat literally on his head.  So sweet.  You think. How adorable.  I wish my cat would be that cuddly, you wish. THEN…Charlie lets go of one of his trademark silent releases of gas.  Now, don’t get me wrong, this is one of the sweetest cats going, but that cat is rotten inside. When he releases gas, it can make the entire room toxic.  So imagine Dad’s delight when he is laying there and Charlie is so very close to he smelly parts.  Dad says it is enough to make him cry sometimes.  As long as Charlie keeps his farts to himself, as my father says it, it feels all cuddly wuddly.  Otherwise he wonders if he is part of some chemical warfare. Thought I would share.  And as for Dad exagerrating – he ain’t.  That cat can clear me out of a room! Bridget

I am writting this in haste for if her ladyship Penny found out I would be resting in pieces. Penny is a wonderful cuddly and sweet siamese cat but eeeps. When she breaks wind RUN and I mean RUN away fast. I have talked to the TED and he siad there is nothing worng with her and gave me something to see if it would help, Also Sammy and Penny eat almost the same food so its definitely not the food, I guess some cats tummys are more aromatic than others. Hides this somewhere that her ladyship wont see ~jag~

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—–BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE—– Hash: SHA1 I am writting this in haste for if her ladyship Penny found out I would be resting in pieces. Penny is a wonderful cuddly and sweet siamese cat but eeeps. When she breaks wind RUN and I mean RUN away fast. I have talked to the TED and he siad there is nothing worng with her and gave me something to see if it would help, Also Sammy and Penny eat almost the same food so its definitely not the food, I guess some cats tummys are more aromatic than others. Hides this somewhere that her ladyship wont see

When I was a teenager, we had a cat who had a bad gas problem.  It was aggravated by the fact that he refused to eat anything other than tuna-flavor Puss’n'Boots, one of the smelliest canned cat foods on the market.  When he would let fly, it smelled like a fishing boat that had stayed out at sea for far too long.  He would actually get up and leave the room in search of fresher air, resulting in his shifting from room to room on a steady basis.  Other than stinkiness, however, he was a very sweet-mannered cat. —–BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE—– Version: PGPfreeware 7.0.3 for non-commercial use <http://www.pgp.com iQA/AwUBPhEPKTMYPge5L34aEQKyBACfbqUR+7Ux7DrZan9EBCt/D+FYjacAn3zQ 7o3l+3Xpo7uxJXcUyd1Ewhi3 =cZpW —–END PGP SIGNATURE—– — PGP key available from http://pgp.mit.edu "Reserve your right to think, for even to think wrongly is better than not to think at all." — Hypatia of Alexendria

Response:

Dad and Charlie have developed a lovely new habit.  It seems that Charlie likes to curl up around Dad’s head when he goes to sleep.  So when Dad wakes up, he is likely to wake up with a cat literally on his head.  So sweet.  You think. How adorable.  I wish my cat would be that cuddly, you wish. THEN…Charlie lets go of one of his trademark silent releases of gas.  Now, don’t get me wrong, this is one of the sweetest cats going, but that cat is rotten inside. When he releases gas, it can make the entire room toxic.  So imagine Dad’s delight when he is laying there and Charlie is so very close to he smelly parts.  Dad says it is enough to make him cry sometimes.  As long as Charlie keeps his farts to himself, as my father says it, it feels all cuddly wuddly.  Otherwise he wonders if he is part of some chemical warfare. Thought I would share.  And as for Dad exagerrating – he ain’t.  That cat can clear me out of a room! Bridget

Response:

Question:

Yeah I know, but I was angling for something more based on your other reply. I don’t know, like free ATV rides or fishing gear or something…

There’s no such thing as a free ATV ride!  Just ask Ken F. Op  –marked for life–

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Opie, your flies are totally the most awesomest and plus also you’re the bestest master fly tier ever. Hey the offer has been made to you on numerous occasions, but I think you are a fraidy-cat, or ya just don’t believe me when I say I have locks on all the bedroom doors? Not to put too fine a point on it, but I think he knows which side of the doors the locks are on.     Op  –not fooled by any liars, but I can be swayed– It’d take a pretty stiff breeze though. Wolfgang

You’re just itchin’ for a fight, aren’t you? Op  –none too prissy to kick a rats ass-kisser–

Response:

Opie, your flies are totally the most awesomest and plus also you’re the bestest master fly tier ever. Hey the offer has been made to you on numerous occasions, but I think you are a fraidy-cat, or ya just don’t believe me when I say I have locks on all the bedroom doors?

Not to put too fine a point on it, but I think he knows which side of the doors the locks are on.     Op  –not fooled by any liars, but I can be swayed–

It’d take a pretty stiff breeze though. Wolfgang

Response:

Opie, your flies are totally the most awesomest and plus also you’re the bestest master fly tier ever. Hey the offer has been made to you on numerous occasions, but I think you are a fraidy-cat, or ya just don’t believe me when I say I have locks on all the bedroom doors?

Yeah I know, but I was angling for something more based on your other reply. I don’t know, like free ATV rides or fishing gear or something…

Response:

So you finally got mine John?  I have no problem with it. Yes, yours and Jeff’s arrived Friday, and Mu’s today.  If I post the photo, though, Op, the whole world is going to know all this bad-mouthing of your tying skills was a fraud.  Damn nice fly for someone who’s only been tying a couple of months.  In fact, damn nice fly, period. JR

You are too kind sir!  Ya know ya got a free bed anytime ya feel the need to fish or whatever in NC. Op  –really, I’m quite harmless–

Response:

Yes, yours and Jeff’s arrived Friday, and Mu’s today.  If I post the photo, though, Op, the whole world is going to know all this bad-mouthing of your tying skills was a fraud.  Damn nice fly for someone who’s only been tying a couple of months.  In fact, damn nice fly, period. JR You are too kind sir!  Ya know ya got a free bed anytime ya feel the need to fish or whatever in NC.

Opie, your flies are totally the most awesomest and plus also you’re the bestest master fly tier ever.

Response:

Opie, your flies are totally the most awesomest and plus also you’re the bestest master fly tier ever.

Hey the offer has been made to you on numerous occasions, but I think you are a fraidy-cat, or ya just don’t believe me when I say I have locks on all the bedroom doors? Op  –not fooled by any liars, but I can be swayed–

Response:

So you finally got mine John?  I have no problem with it. Yes, yours and Jeff’s arrived Friday, and Mu’s today.  If I post the photo, though, Op, the whole world is going to know all this bad-mouthing of your tying skills was a fraud.  Damn nice fly for someone who’s only been tying a couple of months.  In fact, damn nice fly, period.

Dang!  Opie sent the good one to the guy with the camera!  Why didn’t I think of that??

Response:

I’ve got a photo of the five PTs done for the recently completed one-fly swap.  Do any of the participants mind if I post it to ABPF? JR

So you finally got mine John?  I have no problem with it. Op

Response:

I’ve got a photo of the five PTs done for the recently completed one-fly swap.  Do any of the participants mind if I post it to ABPF?

I assume you finally got mine then.  Fine with me, thanks.

Response:

I’ve got a photo of the five PTs done for the recently completed one-fly swap.  Do any of the participants mind if I post it to ABPF? JR

Fine with me but I never got Mu’s tie. Willi

Response:

Fine with me but I never got Mu’s tie. Willi

I just got Mu’s flyz on Sat. Willi, but still ain’t got my big swap flyz? Op

Response:

I’ve got a photo of the five PTs done for the recently completed one-fly swap.  Do any of the participants mind if I post it to ABPF?

No problem.  Shouldn’t there be 6 flies though? Mu

Response:

So you finally got mine John?  I have no problem with it.

Yes, yours and Jeff’s arrived Friday, and Mu’s today.  If I post the photo, though, Op, the whole world is going to know all this bad-mouthing of your tying skills was a fraud.  Damn nice fly for someone who’s only been tying a couple of months.  In fact, damn nice fly, period. JR

Response:

I’ve got a photo of the five PTs done for the recently completed one-fly swap.  Do any of the participants mind if I post it to ABPF? No problem.  Shouldn’t there be 6 flies though?

Thanks, Mu.  Yes, there should be six. JR

Response:

Yes, yours and Jeff’s arrived Friday, and Mu’s today.

How strange.  How did the east coast guys get my flies before you and Willi?  Also how did I get Jeff & Opie’s flies about a week before you did? Mu

Response:

I’ve got a photo of the five PTs done for the recently completed one-fly swap.  Do any of the participants mind if I post it to ABPF? JR

Response:

Question:

Mike:  those reviews were undoubtedly too long and complex for use on this guy’s site.  You really ought to be more concise in your evaluations, or you may never see your raffle tickets (which are roughly akin to powerball lottery tickets, I should note) Mark Faulkner

You are of course as usual perfectly right. My apologies. Here are the modified reviews.  Win$ton $age Orvi$ Hardy= hardly Cane is in$ane. Graphite= diamond just another aggregate, same price. Fluorocarbon = Dupont shares. Hoffman = Good dry flie$ Renzetti= Vice ( expensive, but sometimes worth it ) Airflo= no no Send tickets to  RO$$. TL

Response:

I’m giving away a new Sage 389-5 on my site.  I’m trying to compile reviews on Fly fishing equipment.  It works like a raffle, for every review you get one raffle ticket! Thanks, Forrest http://www.flyfishingreview.com/topics/contest.html Forrest Arakawa FlyFishingREVIEW.com http://www.flyfishingreview.com Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Airflo is crap.

I really like their PolyLeaders, that’s a product for which I’d hike a ways. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

I’m giving away a new Sage 389-5 on my site.  I’m trying to compile reviews on Fly fishing equipment.  It works like a raffle, for every review you get one raffle ticket!

Winston is too expensive Sage is too expensive. Orvis is too expensive. Hardy is too expensive, Cane is too expensive. Graphite is too expensive. Fluorocarbon is ridiculously expensive. Hoffman is expensive but worth it. Renzetti is too expensive but probably worth it. Airflo is crap. Please send my ten tickets to a needy person on ROFF. TL MC

Response:

Mike:  those reviews were undoubtedly too long and complex for use on this guy’s site.  You really ought to be more concise in your evaluations, or you may never see your raffle tickets (which are roughly akin to powerball lottery tickets, I should note) Mark Faulkner – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m giving away a new Sage 389-5 on my site.  I’m trying to compile reviews on Fly fishing equipment.  It works like a raffle, for every review you get one raffle ticket! Winston is too expensive Sage is too expensive. Orvis is too expensive. Hardy is too expensive, Cane is too expensive. Graphite is too expensive. Fluorocarbon is ridiculously expensive. Hoffman is expensive but worth it. Renzetti is too expensive but probably worth it. Airflo is crap. Please send my ten tickets to a needy person on ROFF. TL MC

Response:

Question:

There are so many… Try Fish & Fly at http://www.fishandfly.co.uk/  Ken Baron at http://www.cse.bris.ac.uk/~cckhrb/kb_fish.html UK Fishing World at http://www.cygnet.co.uk/ukfw/ Or why not use AltaVista and search for "+fly fishing +UK" ? Lasse – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone know of a fly fishing website   restricted to the UK ? Please let me know. I fish in Hampshire.

Response:

Anyone know of a fly fishing website   restricted to the UK ? Please let me know. I fish in Hampshire.

Response:

Anyone know of a fly fishing website   restricted to the UK ? Please let me know. I fish in Hampshire.

Hi Jeremy, It’s not a website but a newsgroup – try uk.rec.fishing.game (URFG) you’ll find a lot of U.K.flyfishermen there. — Bill

Response:

Anyone know of a fly fishing website   restricted to the UK ? Please let me know. I fish in Hampshire.

Hi Jeremy, < Anyone know of a fly fishing website restricted to the UK ? Please let me know. I fish in Hampshire. Yes.. try my site, although I’m in N. Wales. I’m currently adding a site for someone down your way. If you know of anyone who would like their fishery listing, let me know and I will add them to my site. Whilst you’re browsing, kindly sign my guestbook Regards, Dave. ( David Anthony Fink ) www  : http://homepages.enterprise.net/davefink/

Response:

Question:

: Another nice place is when you go into Idaho from Montana over the Lolo : Pass. Yes, but now everybody goes there.  Sheesh, like 2 or 3 people a week. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

: Well Rick, I can’t find my map just yet but I would have to believe : that the creek is just north of Galena Summit.  At least I think that : is what it is called.  It is the pass between Ketchum and Stanley.   Nice try, I know the area a little, but it is not the spot I was talking about.  Where would the lake be for the town I said reminded me of Tahoe? — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

That would be the place where Jacob’s Ladder and the Golf Course are?   X fork of the Y? — /* Sandy Pittendrigh                  –oO0  * http://www.nervana.montana.edu/~sandy  * http://www.avicom.net/sandy  */

Response:

Another nice place is when you go into Idaho from Montana over the Lolo Pass. — Ernie Harrison Remove NOSPAM to send E-Mail GIVE MY FLY FISHING BOOKS A NEW HOME Go to: http://users.ccnet.com/~emh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Let us all remember there are still amazing and beautiful places we can discover.  The whole damn point of this goofy post is to motivate you to get out a map and go looking. Stop motivating me, please!  I’ve already got a whole pile of maps and books about Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Idaho, BC, Alaska, New Zealand, and Patagonia (along with a collection of books and CDs about self-taught Spanish).  I racked up 1000 miles on my truck last weekend, and 35 miles on my tennis shoes seeking out some of the places on those maps.  The last thing I need is someone motivating me to buy another damned map! Stop it! — -Wayne Trzyna                           Fight spam! Join CAUCE (Coalition Email).  http://www.cs.colostate.edu/~trzyna    See http://www.cauce.org/

Response:

: Well Rick, I can’t find my map just yet but I would have to believe : that the creek is just north of Galena Summit.  At least I think that : is what it is called.  It is the pass between Ketchum and Stanley.   Nice try, I know the area a little, but it is not the spot I was talking about.  Where would the lake be for the town I said reminded me of Tahoe?

I guess the Salmon comment must have had me looking South instead of North.  Perhaps I should have been looking more towards Sandpoint. Gotta go, I am headed up to Red Ives and some (hopefully) hungry cutts. Marty P.E.T.A (People for the Ethical Termination of Antihunters)

Response:

20 miles of *the* place where the 2-5 pounders are found. That spot is below a small damn, and is on a river that to my knowledge, was the last river in the US to be successfully rafted [in] 1975. the section of the river I am talking about with the 2-5 pounders is in a

stretch of the river – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -where a canoe can easily navigate and is above the nasty part. Further, this spot is on one of the two major N-S highways in the state. It is not in the part of Idaho I usually write about. It is near a town where I thought, "wow… this is exactly what Tahoe looked like 20 years ago." It is in a valley with its floor at about 5000 feet. Near the spring creek, I was able to step across one of the (former) greatest salmon spawning rivers in the US. This place where I was able to step across this river is at least 600 miles from the ocean. I then drove to a spot on this same river where I was not able to throw a rock across it (because it is over 100 yards wide.) This river collects a *lot* of very pure water on its trip to the ocean.

Lot’s of rich facts, and I’m sure with a little sluething, the location of this spring creek is quite detectable. Of course, in trying to figure out where this gem of a spring creek is, your eyes would be pouring over the locations of more good fishing water than you could possibly cover. Mitch

Response:

: If your route takes you across the Panhandle of Idaho try the Locsha along US : 12.   OK, fish the Lochsa of you must, but stay away from its sister river, the Selway.  That is one crappy river.  In fact, although few know it, it is probably the crappiest trout stream in the US.  It is a looooooser. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

: I apologize, I left out some important detail.  By W Idaho I ment Boise, : and the fastest route takes me through East Idaho.  That does take me : past the streams that I mentioned.  The Panhandle route to Boise would : be longer, but more scenic.  Thanks for the information. Boise is south Idaho. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

Try the beaverhead in southwest montana just outside of dillon.  Fish near the dam on Clark Canyon resevoir.  Big, Big BIG fish.  Usually crowded but easy access for an afternoon of fishing.  Did I mention big fish? Matthew           Matthew W Kaphan    http://home.sprintmail.com/~mwk            Silverdale, WA

Response:

"THE ROOT!!!" If you are in Helena….. ya better swing down to Hamilton and fish the  "Bitterroot!!" "The most under rated river in Montana" – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I will be making a car trip the week of 7/13 to visit relatives.  We will be driving from Helena MT to W Idaho.  Since I am the only fisherman in my family I won’t have as much time to spend fishing as I would like.  If you had a half a day where would you go?  Henry’s Fork, Gallatin, Beaverhead, Madison, Big Hole?  There are possible routes that take me past all of these.  I will probably avoid YNP (except West Yellowstone), to much out the way.  I would prefer stream fishing to still water and big fish aren’t important, I am an intermediate level FF. Joe Wax If you drive from Helena to Western Idaho you won’t be fishing any of the streams listed above.  I assume you mean eastern Idaha and SW Montana.  If your route takes you across the Panhandle of Idaho try the Locsha along US 12.  If you did mean eastern Idaho go ahead and fish the Madison and the Gallatin.  Both are good this time of year.  The weather has finally warmed up a bit and by the middle of the month it should be perfect.  If you like a challange try the Henry’s Fork.  Any shop in West Yellowstone can give you current conditions. Doug — Doug & Tammy Stephens Bear Lake Valley, Idaho

Response:

Having read many posts from this self-styled non-potato farmer, I read this as high praise for the Selway and I am adding it to my Summer ‘98 itinerary.  Personally, I’ve never done well on the Lochsa. Phil Holt – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : If your route takes you across the Panhandle of Idaho try the Locsha along US : 12. OK, fish the Lochsa of you must, but stay away from its sister river, the Selway.  That is one crappy river.  In fact, although few know it, it is probably the crappiest trout stream in the US.  It is a looooooser. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

: Having read many posts from this self-styled non-potato farmer, I read this as high praise for the : Selway and I am adding it to my Summer ‘98 itinerary.  Personally, I’ve never done well on the Lochsa. I am no farmer.  That dot at the end is a period, so the sentence should read, "I am no farmer period."  Potatoes or anything else. Having straightened that out… See?  I told you the Lochsa was crummy and now I am telling you the Selway is even crummier. But on another note… I found a new stream today.  (Can anyone really believe it?)  It is a spring creek, comes complete with one of those pipes coming out of the side of a hill where people stop and fill up their water jugs.  I saw it from the road, and simply dropped over the side and walked it aways.  Lots of clearly visible trout is "gin clear" water (added to piss Tim off.)  Big fish too.  Not on a major road, but on a paved road.  (Should be easy to find since Idaho only has about 5.)  Absolutely nobody on the 10 miles of water I checked out. Odd… I thought.  On the road, big, easily spotted fish and no fisherfolk.  While I was standing around, looking like a non-potato farmer, three people on horseback rode up.  (Yep, real people, not dude ranchers or anything like that.  Just normal Idaho people, doing what Idaho people often do on a Sunday.  When they are not growing spuds, that is.)  So I asked, and they answered… nobody fishes that creek they said. And then I realized why.  First, publicity is not our strong suit.  (You probably didn’t even know that the odds are 50% that the McD’s french fry you ate last week is really a Idaho fry.  See, we don’t tell.)  Second, and this is  probably the real reason, I saw a group of people in the town closest  to this creek routinely pulling out 2-5 pounders at a location that *is*  right on a major road.  The folks who want to meat fish, must drive by this location to get to the spring creek I’m not telling you about.  And this ain’t no fish story… 2-5 pounders if they want them.  The third reason is that this is not "fly-fishing" territory.  Slimy wriggly things are the bait of choice. OK, pull out those maps.  One hint is that the spring creek is within 20 miles of the place where the 2-5 pounders are found.  That spot is below a small damn, and is on a river that to my knowledge, was the last river in the US to be successfully rafted.  I mean nobody was able to remain in a watercraft over the entire length of the river until 1975. Can you blieve that?  1975.  It is an amazing river.  (OK, perhaps that clue will help only Jon M.)   One other thing, the section of the river I am talking about with the 2-5 pounders is in a stretch of the river where a canoe can easily navigate and is above the nasty part.  Further, this spot is on one of the two major N-S highways in the state.  It is not in the part of Idaho I usually write about.  It is near a town where I thought, "wow… this is exactly what Tahoe looked like 20 years ago."  It is in a valley with its floor at about 5000 feet. OK, one other clue.  Near the spring creek, I was able to step across one of the (former) greatest salmon spawning rivers in the US.  To my knowledge, it is the farthest an ocean dwelling salmon swims (in the US) to spawn.  This place where I was able to step across this river is at least 600 miles from the ocean.  (Wow!  Some fish.)  I then drove to a spot on this same river where I was not able to throw a rock across it (because it is over 100 yards wide.)  This river collects a *lot* of very pure water on its trip to the ocean.   OK, that is Idaho trivia for today.  If you have an idea of the general location, let me know and I will tell you details if you are correct. I was more moved at finding this creek than I care to admit to you.  It is really amazing if you pause to consider it.  Let us all remember there are still amazing and beautiful places we can discover.  The whole damn point of this goofy post is to motivate you to get out a map and go looking. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

Knock it off, Rick.  This is cruel.

Response:

Another reason I made this post was to give a little notice just what a great part of the world Idaho is.  I’ve lived in Colorado, N. California and Washington, all are great places.  But I have not seen the beautiful, rugged, unspoiled and isolated country within the Idaho borders.   Take out a good map and look for yourself.  It is awesome. — Rick T. Rick Fletcher   –   http://www.chem.uidaho.edu/~fletcher/ Associate professor of chemistry  |  That’s Idaho, not Iowa.    | ad hominem University of Idaho               |  Upper Left Hand Corner.    | ad hominem Moscow, ID 83844-2343             |  No, I don’t grow potatoes. | ad hominem

Response:

I will be making a car trip the week of 7/13 to visit relatives.  We will be driving from Helena MT to W Idaho.  Since I am the only fisherman in my family I won’t have as much time to spend fishing as I would like.  If you had a half a day where would you go?  Henry’s Fork, Gallatin, Beaverhead, Madison, Big Hole?  There are possible routes that take me past all of these.  I will probably avoid YNP (except West Yellowstone), to much out the way.  I would prefer stream fishing to still water and big fish aren’t important, I am an intermediate level FF. Joe Wax

  Joe Just now got home from the Madison. Last week snowed on my sorry ass , river up and off color. This week, cleared and dropped. Fishing was very good both weeks and the night I was to leave caddis where on the bloom. Firehole fished well  PMD’s. The fork between the falls was Hm  (Rained every day I was there and snowed twice to beat the band. Fish where everywhere …..good trip, wet and cold but good fishing) "You can tell when I’m being facetious because I use subliminal smileys."

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -But on another note… I found a new stream today.  (Can anyone really believe it?)  It is a spring creek, comes complete with one of those pipes coming out of the side of a hill where people stop and fill up their water jugs.  I saw it from the road, and simply dropped over the side and walked it aways.  Lots of clearly visible trout is "gin clear" water (added to piss Tim off.)  Big fish too.  Not on a major road, but on a paved road.  (Should be easy to find since Idaho only has about 5.)  Absolutely nobody on the 10 miles of water I checked out. Odd… I thought.  On the road, big, easily spotted fish and no fisherfolk.  While I was standing around, looking like a non-potato farmer, three people on horseback rode up.  (Yep, real people, not dude ranchers or anything like that.  Just normal Idaho people, doing what Idaho people often do on a Sunday.  When they are not growing spuds, that is.)  So I asked, and they answered… nobody fishes that creek they said. And then I realized why.  First, publicity is not our strong suit.  (You probably didn’t even know that the odds are 50% that the McD’s french fry you ate last week is really a Idaho fry.  See, we don’t tell.)  Second, and this is  probably the real reason, I saw a group of people in the town closest  to this creek routinely pulling out 2-5 pounders at a location that *is*  right on a major road.  The folks who want to meat fish, must drive by this location to get to the spring creek I’m not telling you about.  And this ain’t no fish story… 2-5 pounders if they want them.  The third reason is that this is not "fly-fishing" territory.  Slimy wriggly things are the bait of choice. OK, pull out those maps.  One hint is that the spring creek is within 20 miles of the place where the 2-5 pounders are found.  That spot is below a small damn, and is on a river that to my knowledge, was the last river in the US to be successfully rafted.  I mean nobody was able to remain in a watercraft over the entire length of the river until 1975. Can you blieve that?  1975.  It is an amazing river.  (OK, perhaps that clue will help only Jon M.)   One other thing, the section of the river I am talking about with the 2-5 pounders is in a stretch of the river where a canoe can easily navigate and is above the nasty part.  Further, this spot is on one of the two major N-S highways in the state.  It is not in the part of Idaho I usually write about.  It is near a town where I thought, "wow… this is exactly what Tahoe looked like 20 years ago."  It is in a valley with its floor at about 5000 feet. OK, one other clue.  Near the spring creek, I was able to step across one of the (former) greatest salmon spawning rivers in the US.  To my knowledge, it is the farthest an ocean dwelling salmon swims (in the US) to spawn.  This place where I was able to step across this river is at least 600 miles from the ocean.  (Wow!  Some fish.)  I then drove to a spot on this same river where I was not able to throw a rock across it (because it is over 100 yards wide.)  This river collects a *lot* of very pure water on its trip to the ocean.   OK, that is Idaho trivia for today.  If you have an idea of the general location, let me know and I will tell you details if you are correct. I was more moved at finding this creek than I care to admit to you.  It is really amazing if you pause to consider it.  Let us all remember there are still amazing and beautiful places we can discover.  The whole damn point of this goofy post is to motivate you to get out a map and go looking.

Well Rick, I can’t find my map just yet but I would have to believe that the creek is just north of Galena Summit.  At least I think that is what it is called.  It is the pass between Ketchum and Stanley.  It is also, I believe, the divide between the Big Wood River and the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. This is spectacular country.  I honeymooned there with my wife(of course) but sadly, I didn’t take my fly rod.  Maybe next time I’m there I will have it. Marty P.E.T.A (People for the Ethical Termination of Antihunters)

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I will be making a car trip the week of 7/13 to visit relatives.  We will be driving from Helena MT to W Idaho.  Since I am the only fisherman in my family I won’t have as much time to spend fishing as I would like.  If you had a half a day where would you go?  Henry’s Fork, Gallatin, Beaverhead, Madison, Big Hole?  There are possible routes that take me past all of these.  I will probably avoid YNP (except West Yellowstone), to much out the way.  I would prefer stream fishing to still water and big fish aren’t important, I am an intermediate level FF. Joe Wax

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I will be making a car trip the week of 7/13 to visit relatives.  We will be driving from Helena MT to W Idaho.  Since I am the only fisherman in my family I won’t have as much time to spend fishing as I would like.  If you had a half a day where would you go?  Henry’s Fork, Gallatin, Beaverhead, Madison, Big Hole?  There are possible routes that take me past all of these.  I will probably avoid YNP (except West Yellowstone), to much out the way.  I would prefer stream fishing to still water and big fish aren’t important, I am an intermediate level FF. Joe Wax

If you drive from Helena to Western Idaho you won’t be fishing any of the streams listed above.  I assume you mean eastern Idaha and SW Montana.  If your route takes you across the Panhandle of Idaho try the Locsha along US 12.  If you did mean eastern Idaho go ahead and fish the Madison and the Gallatin.  Both are good this time of year.  The weather has finally warmed up a bit and by the middle of the month it should be perfect.  If you like a challange try the Henry’s Fork.  Any shop in West Yellowstone can give you current conditions. Doug — Doug & Tammy Stephens Bear Lake Valley, Idaho

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I’ve fished both SW Montana and Western Idaho.  i really enjoyed the Big Hole River between Wisdom and Wise River.  it’s accessible and wasn’t crowded at all.  you can go west from Wisdom and either head south into idaho or north a ways and then west into idaho over lolo pass.  Good luck.

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I’ve fished both SW Montana and Western Idaho.  i really enjoyed the Big Hole River between Wisdom and Wise River.  it’s accessible and wasn’t crowded at all.  you can go west from Wisdom and either head south into idaho or north a ways and then west into idaho over lolo pass.  Good luck.

No, No, the Wise and the BigHole are both over crowded and have no fish. The campgrounds are terrible and I believe there was a meltdown at a powerplant nearby.  Don’t go there!! Doug — Doug & Tammy Stephens Bear Lake Valley, Idaho

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I will be making a car trip the week of 7/13 to visit relatives.  We will be driving from Helena MT to W Idaho.  Since I am the only fisherman in my family I won’t have as much time to spend fishing as I would like.  If you had a half a day where would you go?  Henry’s Fork, Gallatin, Beaverhead, Madison, Big Hole?  There are possible routes that take me past all of these.  I will probably avoid YNP (except West Yellowstone), to much out the way.  I would prefer stream fishing to still water and big fish aren’t important, I am an intermediate level FF. Joe Wax If you drive from Helena to Western Idaho you won’t be fishing any of the streams listed above.  I assume you mean eastern Idaha and SW Montana.  If your route takes you across the Panhandle of Idaho try the Locsha along US 12.  If you did mean eastern Idaho go ahead and fish the Madison and the Gallatin.  Both are good this time of year.  The weather has finally warmed up a bit and by the middle of the month it should be perfect.  If you like a challange try the Henry’s Fork.  Any shop in West Yellowstone can give you current conditions. Doug — Doug & Tammy Stephens Bear Lake Valley, Idaho

I apologize, I left out some important detail.  By W Idaho I ment Boise, and the fastest route takes me through East Idaho.  That does take me past the streams that I mentioned.  The Panhandle route to Boise would be longer, but more scenic.  Thanks for the information. Joe Wax

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I will be making a car trip the week of 7/13 to visit relatives.  We will be driving from Helena MT to W Idaho.  Since I am the only fisherman in my family I won’t have as much time to spend fishing as I would like.  If you had a half a day where would you go?  Henry’s Fork, Gallatin, Beaverhead, Madison, Big Hole?  There are possible routes that take me past all of these.  I will probably avoid YNP (except West Yellowstone), to much out the way.  I would prefer stream fishing to still water and big fish aren’t important, I am an intermediate level FF. Joe Wax If you drive from Helena to Western Idaho you won’t be fishing any of the streams listed above.  I assume you mean eastern Idaha and SW Montana.  If your route takes you across the Panhandle of Idaho try the Locsha along US 12.  If you did mean eastern Idaho go ahead and fish the Madison and the Gallatin.  Both are good this time of year.  The weather has finally warmed up a bit and by the middle of the month it should be perfect.  If you like a challange try the Henry’s Fork.  Any shop in West Yellowstone can give you current conditions. Doug — Doug & Tammy Stephens Bear Lake Valley, Idaho I apologize, I left out some important detail.  By W Idaho I ment Boise, and the fastest route takes me through East Idaho.  That does take me past the streams that I mentioned.  The Panhandle route to Boise would be longer, but more scenic.  Thanks for the information. Joe Wax

Got it!  You may even try the Fall River south of Ashton on US 20.   Doug — Doug & Tammy Stephens Bear Lake Valley, Idaho

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Let us all remember there are still amazing and beautiful places we can discover.  The whole damn point of this goofy post is to motivate you to get out a map and go looking.

Stop motivating me, please!  I’ve already got a whole pile of maps and books about Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Idaho, BC, Alaska, New Zealand, and Patagonia (along with a collection of books and CDs about self-taught Spanish).  I racked up 1000 miles on my truck last weekend, and 35 miles on my tennis shoes seeking out some of the places on those maps.  The last thing I need is someone motivating me to buy another damned map! Stop it! — -Wayne Trzyna                           Fight spam! Join CAUCE (Coalition  http://www.cs.colostate.edu/~trzyna    See http://www.cauce.org/

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Question:

I am new to fly fishing and just bought my first rod and reel.  I am a bit curious though about how to set it up.  I have been able to connect the backing, line, and leader to the reel, but now I am not sure what to do. Do I tie a fly to the end of the leader or do I need to use a tippet?  If so what exactly is a tippet?  I have read about them but can’t seem to find one anywhere. I would appreciate any help you can give me both about setting up my equipment for the first time and getting out there and learning to cast. Any tips or tricks would be great.  Thanks — Kevin L. Hernandez

Hi kevin: To answer all your questions would take a very long time. I would suggest that a book might be a good investment. Fly Fishing by Al Kyte is as good a book for beginners as any I’ve seen. Being an American book this should be readily available and contain information which is relevent to you. It covers all the basics. I am sure that other contributers to the group can reccomend other more recent titles. Colin. — Colin J. McPherson B.Eng. Design and Structures Group, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Bath,Bath,U.K.

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Kevin: Ron’s advice about purchasing a good book on knots is sound. Meanwhile, you might want to check   http://www.flyfield.com/davetips.htm   (Dave Whitlock shows how to tie his recommended knots). Good Luck, Joe

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Kevin, Where did you buy? My local shop will set up equipment, make recomendations, has free casting and tying lessons, rents videos and is a great resource for people and information. Find a good one in your area. If no local shops, try your library for books and videos. For the short answer, a tippet is a length of leader-type material that you attach to the end of your leader to avoid using up leader every time you change flies.  Match the weight of the tippet material (sold in spools) to the end of your leader. Good fishing! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do I tie a fly to the end of the leader or do I need to use a tippet?  If so what exactly is a tippet?  I have read about them but can’t seem to find one anywhere.   I would appreciate any help you can give me both about setting up my equipment for the first time and getting out there and learning to cast. Any tips or tricks would be great.  Thanks — Kevin L. Hernandez

Response:

I am new to fly fishing and just bought my first rod and reel.  I am a bit curious though about how to set it up.  I have been able to connect the backing, line, and leader to the reel, but now I am not sure what to do. Do I tie a fly to the end of the leader or do I need to use a tippet?  If so what exactly is a tippet?  I have read about them but can’t seem to find one anywhere. I would appreciate any help you can give me both about setting up my equipment for the first time and getting out there and learning to cast. Any tips or tricks would be great.  Thanks — Kevin L. Hernandez

Kevin: Tippet is actually what the end section of your leader is called.  If you look at your leader, you will see that it is larger at the butt end which attaches to your fly line, and tapers to the tippet end.  The fly is tied to the tippet.  When you hear people talk about tippet material, what they are referring to is a section of line that does not taper, but is the same diameter through it’s entire length.  It comes in small spools (unless you buy in bulk), and is available in any flyshop.  What most people do, is buy tippet material and add sections of this to the leader as the line gets used up.  The purpose is to save changing the leader all the time and not have to mess with the more expensive fly line.  It also allows you to step down the size of the tippet line to enable you to attach smaller flies as may be needed for the type of fishing you are doing.  Tippet is referred to by it’s "X rating" i.e. 4X or 5X etc.  The larger the number, the smaller the diameter of the tippet.  Look on your leader package and see what size leader you got, it will tell you the tippet diameter, and then you can match the tippet material to the tippet end of the leader, again, saving wear and tear on the fly line in that you don’t have to hack off a piece of the fly line to attach a new leader all the time, and also save some dough because you can buy a spool of tippet material that will give you lot’s of changes cheaper than buying an entirely new leader. I trust you attached your backing, line and leader with knots that will not fail.  One of the first things you should do is get a basic book of fly knots and learn the ones you need to know and practice them before you head out to fish.  I’ve never seen a fish wait for someone to take their time messing up knots.  The same goes for your casting.  Practice before you get to the river or lake.  Take a lesson, have a friend work with you, go to a fly shop, get a video.  Do something, but don’t make your first cast the one standing on the riverbank. Finally, you might want to check out <http://www.flyshop.com and browse that page, especially checking their "Tactics" section.  Good luck, tight lines, and welcome to flyfishing. Ron.

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I am new to fly fishing and just bought my first rod and reel.  I am a bit curious though about how to set it up.  I have been able to connect the backing, line, and leader to the reel, but now I am not sure what to do. Do I tie a fly to the end of the leader or do I need to use a tippet?  If so what exactly is a tippet?  I have read about them but can’t seem to find one anywhere.   I would appreciate any help you can give me both about setting up my equipment for the first time and getting out there and learning to cast. Any tips or tricks would be great.  Thanks — Kevin L. Hernandez

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Question:

        I’ll second the Wekiva River Trip from Katie’s Landing.  Did that in a private boat last year with their shuttling….  Their’s is a good and responsible operation.  If you haven’t seen Florida rivers much this one’s a good intro.  I saw all the FL species of herons, plus limpkins, etc. on this run.         Joe P.

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If you want to drive a little further south (typically warmer as well) to North Palm Beach, you can rent Kayaks from The Adventure Times. They have regular guided tours to the Everglades and other local spots including intracoastal and ocean Call em at 407 881-7218 I’m going to be in Orlando the first week in January and am looking for paddling opportunities within say a 60 mile radius.  I won’t be taking a boat so I’m interested in outfitters or state parks that rent equipment. Thanks. Jason

Bob Denton President Gulf Stream International Boynton Beach, Florida Manufacturers of Sink the Stink The Water Sport Deodorizer That Really Works! For information on Boynton Beach, FL Scuba: http://www.flinet.com/gulfstream/scuba.html

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I go to the Cape Canaveral area often.  Fishing for redfish on the flats there is nice.  There is a non-powered only area north of 528 on the Bannanna river also.  You can rent from Extreme Sports, but they are not on the way, being about twenty south from the Cape.  Patrick AFB also rents to military types.  But all they have is small sit on tops.   If you want somethind exciting, the St Johns river, which runs from near the coast where I live, North through Deland.  The Manatees winter at Blue Springs by Deland.  They rent boats there. I’ve gone just North of lake Washington near the coast.  It is very small at that point, so all you will see is the occasional airboater.  The gators there are the biggest I’ve seen.  I fly helicopters for a living, so I’ve seen plenty.  They will probably be staying under the water in early Jan.  In late Feb, they are laying out.  Seeing them on the shore is not scary.  What is is when they shoot down the twenty foot wide stream right under your boat, leaving a wake like the Creature from the black lagoon. I will only take my big two person there, as my 14′ single might lead a big bull gator to think "Yea, I can take him".  

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I’m going to be in Orlando the first week in January and am looking for … Jason

PalnJones is right on with Wekiva.  This is a fantastic paddle (for Florida-no ww).  There is a Wekiva State Park & they rent canoes (not sure about kayaks) through a concessionaire (Kings Landings Canoe).   Kings Landing is the Place to put in and go to the Marina (I’ve been, I had my own kayak with me).  Fabulous river (for Florida).  There is a kayak/canoe/outdoor store in Orlando called something like Travel Country – in yellow pages under canoes – they can help with directions & maybe rentals.  It is 10-20 mile paddle depending where you go and the Kings Landing folks will run shuttle for you. kevin

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I’m going to be in Orlando the first week in January and am looking for paddling opportunities within say a 60 mile radius.  I won’t be taking a boat so I’m interested in outfitters or state parks that rent equipment.

Jason: I would second the recommendation David made about Wekiva Springs; just north of Orlando but literally a wilderness area along the edges of the city.  Wekiva State Park has a well stocked canoe livery and there is also a private company called Katies Wekiva River Landing that rents canoes.  Katies has routes of 6, 9, 12 or 19 miles.  I’ve hiked all along Wekiva and have seen the operation…very professional.  However, I personally have not taken the trips.  Never heard anything bad though.. Katies Info: Toll free from Orlando 628-1482      Other calls 407 332-4470 Ranger station Wekiwa River State Park    407 884-2009 If kayaking is your game, Travel Country Outdoors in Orlando 407 831-0777 does not rent anything but they do have a half day guided trip to Cape Canaveral NWR.  Another kayaking outfitter that does half-day guided trips (maybe rentals) is Agua Azul in Clearwater (near Tampa) 813 530-7555.  They have one trip "closer" to Orlando that is on the historic Hillsborough River out of the Tampa area.  It takes us 1.25 hours to get there from where we live near Disney.  My wife and I have done both of these trips and from a purely novice point of view had a GREAT TIME! Happy Holidays! Robert   Orlando

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I’m going to be in Orlando the first week in January and am looking for paddling opportunities within say a 60 mile radius.  I won’t be taking a boat so I’m interested in outfitters or state parks that rent equipment. Thanks. Jason

Response:

I’m going to be in Orlando the first week in January and am looking for paddling opportunities within say a 60 mile radius.  I won’t be taking a boat so I’m interested in outfitters or state parks that rent equipment. Thanks. Jason

There is a nice flat water (what else would it be) paddle on the Wekiva River, putting on near Apopka.  The water is crystal clear, and we saw alligators (small) the time we did it. There is at least one canoe livery, but I don’t remember the name.  Check the Yellow Pages. David

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Question:

Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any experience with this company? I am interested in buying a blank from them. Would appreciate any life experiences with this company. Thanks, DLowe

They are nice rods.  I have fished them, at the request of my fishing partner who sells them.  They cast very similar to a Scott, have a nice finish, etc.  Life experiences you may not find, as they haven’t been around that long (like maybe 5 or 6 years?) Tight lines, -Burton

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Excellent company run by first class people who build a fine product. You won’t be disappointed in my opinion. Tom Dougherty – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any experience with this company? A few years ago, I bought a prototype 8 1/2′ 3/4 wgt. (prototype meaning no graphics on the rod and it wasn’t listed in their brochure) that I ran across on sale, and I think it’s wonderful.  It has a slow action, rather like my Winston 3 wgt., but it’s a bit heavier than an all-graphite rod would be (I think it’s one of their ‘lamiglass’ hybrids).  It casts both 3 & 4 wgt. lines equally well; I choose which based on wind conditions and fish spookiness.  HPH

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after reading all reply’s i am happy to know that i am not the only one who has broken there diamondback rods.i have two backwater series rods and both have broken at the ferrule,the last one breaking on the first cast of the first day in the florida keys.great trip!!they did repair them very fast but not even a letter of explanation.i think my next rod is an rplx.                                                           larry morris

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I love fly fishing in general it is so fun!!!! I love you too

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I love fly fishing in general it is so fun!!!! I love you too

that was beautiful man. you still aren’t getting my beer, though… TimW

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I love fly fishing in general it is so fun!!!! I love you tooGeez Jerry –

Isn’t 10:32 in the morning a tad early to be drinking?

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I love fly fishing in general it is so fun!!!! I love you too

..T-Bone..Send the Doc a homebrew!!….;)

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I love fly fishing in general it is so fun!!!! I love you too ..T-Bone..Send the Doc a homebrew!!….;)

Nah, he’d just use it to splash back more prozak. TimW

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I love fly fishing in general it is so fun!!!! I love you too ..T-Bone..Send the Doc a homebrew!!….;)

Actually it sounds like he has had one too many already! -Burton

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6/7 wt, 8-1/2 ft four-piece rods for years.  Very stiff action and will punch a line into the wind like no other rod I’ve ever used. Great for alpine lake fishing, which is why this is my backpacking rod of choice. Also great for going deep in big streams. Forget delicate presentations, however.  I also broke mine, and Diamondback fixed it very nicely. I think Diamondback used to private label a line of rods for L.L.Bean. Good luck!

Response:

Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any experience with this company? I am interested in buying a blank from them. Would appreciate any life experiences with this company. Thanks, DLowe 21757.

Response:

Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any

experience with this company? I am interested in buying a blank from them. Would appreciate any life experiences with this company.<< I like the action of the rods, I have two a 9wt and a 5 wt. The five weight broke at the ferrules while casting the first time out and it took too long (IMO) to get it back but they did fix it. I will not buy another one, that is my experience. Wayne Knight Marietta GA                                              

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Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any experience with this company? I am interested in buying a blank from them. Would appreciate any life experiences with this company. Thanks, DLowe 21757.

      I visited the factory up in Vermont a few years ago, and at the time their set-up looked efficient and clean; they stocked a nice line of rods, blanks and rod-building supplies. I’ve not been there recently.   Louise Scharrenberg

Response:

Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any experience with this company?

A few years ago, I bought a prototype 8 1/2′ 3/4 wgt. (prototype meaning no graphics on the rod and it wasn’t listed in their brochure) that I ran across on sale, and I think it’s wonderful.  It has a slow action, rather like my Winston 3 wgt., but it’s a bit heavier than an all-graphite rod would be (I think it’s one of their ‘lamiglass’ hybrids).  It casts both 3 & 4 wgt. lines equally well; I choose which based on wind conditions and fish spookiness.  HPH

Response:

Have seen ad and sent for brochure on Diamondback rods, anyone have any experience with this company? A few years ago, I bought a prototype 8 1/2′ 3/4 wgt. (prototype meaning no graphics on the rod and it wasn’t listed in their brochure) that I ran across on sale, and I think it’s wonderful.  It has a slow action, rather like my Winston 3 wgt., but it’s a bit heavier than an all-graphite rod would be (I think it’s one of their ‘lamiglass’ hybrids).  It casts both 3 & 4 wgt. lines equally well; I choose which based on wind conditions and fish spookiness.  HPH

I built a rod on a Diamondback 3 pc. Backwater blank last year and have fished it, oh probably 100 times more or less. The first two times out I broke the ferrule between the mid and tip section. Diamondback was real good about replacing it, and the rod designer, George, seemed genuinely interested in what the hell I was doing with their rods to do this :- I was using a 450 head (10 weight blank). The third ferrule was the charm and I’ve since had no problems at all, though I notice they’ve gone to the (IMO) much more reliable tip over butt ferrule in this year’s Saltwater rods (yay!). In terms of performance it casts very well with the rated line (#10) no need to overload it for wind or large flies. It’s less stiff than my Cabelas HML and a little more stiff than my Fisher GT40 if that helps. I can cast it all day without fatigue. Their stock rods seem very well built, I like their clown nose fighting butts, and the saltwater blank is especially nice to look at. I’d get another one, esp. with the new ferrule.                                                                 jc

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Question:

A brief followup to my previous Paint Branch query: A friend and I fished there today (in the snow!) downstream of Briggs Cheney Road, upstream of Fairland Road. It looked like good trout habitat, relatively clear water, good riffles and drops, nice pools, good forest buffer for a hundred yards or more on either side… …but no fish in sight.  (The only sign of life was one little sculpin wriggling across the bottom.)  Are the trout extinct there, or just hibernating still? Scott in DC

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – A brief followup to my previous Paint Branch query: A friend and I fished there today (in the snow!) downstream of Briggs Cheney Road, upstream of Fairland Road. It looked like good trout habitat, relatively clear water, good riffles and drops, nice pools, good forest buffer for a hundred yards or more on either side… …but no fish in sight.  (The only sign of life was one little sculpin wriggling across the bottom.)  Are the trout extinct there, or just hibernating still? Scott in DC

Scott, Although I never tried fishing Paint Branch, I scouted it once during the early Summer with a pair of polarized glasses and observed two or three small trout.  By the way, there’s lots of great flyfishing for Smallmouth available in your local area. Regards, Eric Higgins

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Question:

I’m taking a Troop of Boy Scouts to Canada this July. To preserve my sanity I’m taking my fly rig. Anybody got some hot tips on the best flys and equipment to use? also if you have any info on what the boys should spin fish with we would appreciate it.  Thanks norm

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I’m taking a Troop of Boy Scouts to Canada this July. To preserve my sanity I’m taking my fly rig. Anybody got some hot tips on the best flys and equipment to use? also if you have any info on what the boys should spin fish with we would appreciate it.  Thanks norm

 In case no one told you, Canada is a little bit bigger than the U.S.A and spans the continient from Nova Scotia on the Atlantic to British Columbia on the Pacific ;^) But seriously, there is lots of great fly fishing all across the country.  I live in British Columbia and use minnow imitations for sea run cutthroat trout in coastal waters,  colourful flys for summer steel head in coastal streams, and traditional insect patterns for lakes and streams in the interior of the Province.

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 In case no one told you, Canada is a little bit bigger than the U.S.A and spans the continient from Nova Scotia on the Atlantic to British Columbia on the Pacific ;^)

Jeez …. I thought since ‘49 it started at Newfoundland on the east coast. I hope the NF and Labrador outfitters don’t read your posting!

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 In case no one told you, Canada is a little bit bigger than the U.S.A and spans the continient from Nova Scotia on the Atlantic to British Columbia on the Pacific ;^) Jeez …. I thought since ‘49 it started at Newfoundland on the east coast. I hope the NF and Labrador outfitters don’t read your posting!

O.K. your right,  I was off by about 350 miles!  Still a really huge country. But while were on the subject of Newfoundland – do you know why the Newfy was happy to hear that Quebec was leaving Canada……because the drive to Toronto would be so much closer!

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I’m taking a Troop of Boy Scouts to Canada this July. To preserve my sanity I’m taking my fly rig. Anybody got some hot tips on the best flys and equipment to use? also if you have any info on what the boys should spin fish with we would appreciate it.  Thanks norm

Hi, Canada is a BIG country, your choice of flies and gear will depend on where you are going. If you are interested in Novca SAcotia, I can help you out and would be more than pleased to do something with you even. Our specialty is teaching flyfishing to youngsters (16 years experience and nationally certified coaching level one). If you are interested in NS, drop me a line, even if you are coming here and don’t want them to flyfish, I think I could probably still help you out ! Tight Lines !00 Little Harbour Road, Lockeport Nova Scotia Canada  B0T 1L0 ph/fax 902-656-3329

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Never was too good a Geography, even in the good ole USA. I should have said that I was going to the Boundary Waters above Minn. Maybe I’ll come out and try the minnows pattern like you suggest. Any tips a little further east of BC? Norm

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:  In case no one told you, Canada is a little bit bigger than the U.S.A and spans the continient from : Nova Scotia on the Atlantic to British Columbia on the Pacific ;^) : Jeez …. : I thought since ‘49 it started at Newfoundland on the east coast. : I hope the NF and Labrador outfitters don’t read your posting! Thanks Don. Sorry I couldn’t make your conference. Still hoping to wangle a means of getting over to fish the Miramichi and maybe even talk about multimedia Jack  – Newfoundland and Labrador Science  and Technology Advisory Council                Tel     (709) 738-3400 114 Empire Ave., St. John’s, NF    A1B 1C7      Fax     (709) 738-3276

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m taking a Troop of Boy Scouts to Canada this July. To preserve my sanity I’m taking my fly rig. Anybody got some hot tips on the best flys and equipment to use? also if you have any info on what the boys should spin fish with we would appreciate it.  Thanks norm In case no one told you, Canada is a little bit bigger than the U.S.A and spans the continient from Nova Scotia on the Atlantic to British Columbia on the Pacific ;^) But seriously, there is lots of great fly fishing all across the country.  I live in British Columbia and use minnow imitations for sea run cutthroat trout in coastal waters,  colourful flys for summer steel head in coastal streams, and traditional insect patterns for lakes and streams in the interior of the Province.

Just to clarify: Canada Spans from Newfoundland to British Columbia, Not Nova Scotia to British Columbia,  There are about 500000 Newfoundlanders who don’t like being forgotten. Thanks Chris Newfoundland, Canada

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