Question:

Bob Have you tried really small baits??   I use 3" twisty tails on a very light jig with 6lb test on tough days.  Just a thought. Merry Christmas and catch one for me cause all the water up here is hard. Steve – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I may have mentioend once or twice before that I like to play around fishing the canals when I only have a few hours to fish.  During warm weather its great.  I have found where to catch a few, and they are always there.  Not many keepers, but lots of fun on light tackle with an occassional nice fish. Since the weather turned cooler they have all disappeared.  I know the bass still have to be there somewhere.  But I can’t find them.  I have heard that when the weather turns cold they head for deeper water, but I’m talking about canals here.  What deeper water? — Bob La Londe The Security Consultant http://www.diycomponents.com 849 S Ave C Yuma, Az 85364 (928)782-9765 ofc (928)782-7873 fax ROC 103044, C-12 ROC 103047, L-67

Response:

Bob Have you tried really small baits??   I use 3" twisty tails on a very light jig with 6lb test on tough days.  Just a thought. Merry Christmas and catch one for me cause all the water up here is hard.

You have my condolences.  Down here we only have to deal with hard water in our plumbing. I’ll try some smaller stuff like that for probing the bottom.  I usually use small stuff like1/8 oz spinners when it gets tough, but I forgot about using smaller bottom probing stuff. I even just picked up some small jigs because I want to try some float and fly next weekend floating a couple miles of the Colorado river. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Steve I may have mentioend once or twice before that I like to play around fishing the canals when I only have a few hours to fish.  During warm weather its great.  I have found where to catch a few, and they are always there.  Not many keepers, but lots of fun on light tackle with an occassional nice fish. Since the weather turned cooler they have all disappeared.  I know the bass still have to be there somewhere.  But I can’t find them.  I have heard that when the weather turns cold they head for deeper water, but I’m talking about canals here.  What deeper water? — Bob La Londe The Security Consultant http://www.diycomponents.com 849 S Ave C Yuma, Az 85364 (928)782-9765 ofc (928)782-7873 fax ROC 103044, C-12 ROC 103047, L-67

Response:

I may have mentioend once or twice before that I like to play around fishing the canals when I only have a few hours to fish.  During warm weather its great.  I have found where to catch a few, and they are always there.  Not many keepers, but lots of fun on light tackle with an occassional nice fish. Since the weather turned cooler they have all disappeared.  I know the bass still have to be there somewhere.  But I can’t find them.  I have heard that when the weather turns cold they head for deeper water, but I’m talking about canals here.  What deeper water? — Bob La Londe The Security Consultant http://www.diycomponents.com 849 S Ave C Yuma, Az 85364 (928)782-9765 ofc (928)782-7873 fax ROC 103044, C-12 ROC 103047, L-67

Response:

Question:

  Michael, – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –          First off, where exacty are you presently residing.       Clagary as you know,is a booming-better than the 70’s.With one of the lowest unemployment numbers in the Nation.       The weather is finally warming up.The Bow River has been opened all year round and this weekend all of the smaller rivers and creeks around Southern Alberta open up for the season–Can wait!!       I’ve got all my gear ready and taking the Day off work to hit the Elbow at about 8am.The rivers arerunning a little high due to the spring run off but ha,that fishing. Take Care For Now. PAUL Before you buy.

Hi Paul, I am now living in South Jersey. I work in Philadelphia. I used to live in the NW of Calgary in Around the Country Hills Area. Before I came to South Jersey I only knew how to spin fish. I learned how to cast and fish in Atco Lake on Route 30. Just small blue gills and pumpkin seeds but it was a hoot! My first fly rod was a Diawa and it was an eight weight! If you can imagine chasing blue gill on an eight weight! Still it was a blast. As I became instantly infatuated with Fly Fishing I began researching it and that was when I stumbed onto r.o.f.f. last year. I was quite active posting but lifes "other" demands get in the way. I still fish like crazy but I haven’t been "speaking" in the ng too much. Just now I am starting to beak off again. I was watching fishing Canada last night and they were doing a segment on the old man river up by Crows Nest Pass. That looked FANTASTIC! Just like I remembered it. I used to fish a spot on the Bow that is by a golf course just out of town (south west I think) and we used to get some BIG rainbows out of there! Next time I visit I warned my wife that she would not be seeing a lot of me! I plan on calling on all of the people I have been corresponding with to get some time out with them and also to do some of my own exploring! I’d like to get over to Sam Livingston’s fish hatchery and work that stretch after the spill way! Also along a small bend close to south Costco! Thanks for the interest! — Michael Era

Question:

I like the deep diving ff shad in the crawdad pattern,but day in and day

out the tube rules for me,in stained water I like a smoke colour with red fleck and in clear water the salt&pepper has worked great,I’ve been fishin smallies here in Ont. for years and there’s nothin like it!use light tackle and really enjoy it.Hope it helps and good luck                

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I finally found a place fairly close to go fishing for smallies. What’s some good bait’s to try? Thanks,  Bill

Response:

This is a river (Nottoway) SW of Richmond , Va. Exactly what kind of tube jigs are everyone referring to? For large mouth, I got rid of everything I had except plastic worms and a few top water baits. The only tube jigs I,m familiar with are the small ones for Crappie fishing. Thanks,  Bill

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – River or lake?? it does make a big difference..also region… THAT"S WHAT DICK SAID * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Exactly what kind of tube jigs are everyone referring to Thanks,  Bill.

I can not speak for everyone here but the tube jigs that I am referring to are the phenix tubes. If you would like to order some you can contact a friend of mine. He can be reached at phone number  1-519-766=hook(4665) his name is ray, he has allowed me to post this and is willing to ship to whom ever wants the best tubes money can buy.

Response:

This is a river (Nottoway) SW of Richmond , Va. Exactly what kind of tube jigs are everyone referring to? For large mouth, I got rid of everything I had except plastic worms and a few top water baits. The only tube jigs I,m familiar with are the small ones for Crappie fishing.

Tube jigs are manufactured by many outfits.  You can fish them on the bottom by inserting a lead head jig hook into them or fish them off the bottom via a Carolina rig with styrofoam packed into the jig and a plain hook threaded into it (or use a floating jighead).  In smaller sizes they can also be fished a fixed distance under the surface by using a float. Mepps Aglias always worked well for me too.  You need to learn how to fish them in different depths and to read the water.  Having the spinner rise up towards the surface at the end of the swing as your line tightens and to be able to place your lure so that this happens right as the spinner is near good-looking structure is an effective method.  Most people just toss out spinners and retrieve them blindly which is an inefficient method of fishing with spinners.  Then, convinced of their ineffectiveness, they relegate spinners to a lonely spot in the tackle box.   A small 4" plastic worm in pumpkinseed, chameleon. motor oil-fleck, june bug (you get the idea, drab earth tone colors – though sometimes chartreuse and white are the hot tickets) drifted under a float works well too. If you are drifting along with the current in a canoe or boat you don’t need a float just let the line out and watch for strikes. I would suggest you consider trying to learn to fly fish for them if your river is wadable or if you have a boat (though I definitely feel wading is infinitely more interesting). You won’t need great casting skills or finesse (generally speaking) and it’s a whole lot of fun.  An inexpensive setup from KMart or Cabelas will be sufficient.   Learning to read the water, not choice of lure will help you the most however in catching the fish in my opinion. Mu Young Lee Ann arbor, MI  USA

Response:

This is a river (Nottoway) SW of Richmond , Va. Exactly what kind of tube jigs are everyone referring to? For large mouth, I got rid of everything I had except plastic worms and a few top water baits. The only tube jigs I,m familiar with are the small ones for Crappie fishing.

 I know this place Bill . I suggest a 1/4 oz , tandem ( gold colorado , silver willow ) , white spinnerbait with a split tail trailer . I also suggest a pearl super fluke on a 4/0 gamakatsu hook . And the key to both of the baits is to remember that there is current and present your lure with it .

Response:

Thanks for your help, I’ll definitely try your suggestions.  Thank again, Bill

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is a river (Nottoway) SW of Richmond , Va. Exactly what kind of tube jigs are everyone referring to? For large mouth, I got rid of everything I had except plastic worms and a few top water baits. The only tube jigs I,m familiar with are the small ones for Crappie fishing.  I know this place Bill . I suggest a 1/4 oz , tandem ( gold colorado , silver willow ) , white spinnerbait with a split tail trailer . I also suggest a pearl super fluke on a 4/0 gamakatsu hook . And the key to both of the baits is to remember that there is current and present your lure with it .

Response:

I finally found a place fairly close to go fishing for smallies. What’s some good bait’s to try? Thanks,  Bill

Response:

Try tube jigs ,I like deep diving bomber crankbaits(model A) in baby bass color.They work the best in some current. Crank them as slow as possible this time of year and hold on.I just caught a five pounder my biggest ever on 11-28-99 using this pattern.

Response:

River or lake?? it does make a big difference..also region… THAT"S WHAT DICK SAID * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

I am going to have to get some of these Tube Jigs I keep reading about here. My brother had a few last summer and they were catching where nothing else was. However, He did catch a 6 1/2 lb Smallmouth last spring. On a white small sized crank bait he found about two weeks before! I was extremely jealous! John Diel www.2stupiddogs.net Oklahoma Fishing Reports and More!

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Question:

I’ve been looking through USA Today for the past few days during school & noticed Northwest’s advertisements for their new MSP-FBU service and was wondering if anyone knew what type of plane will be used on this run ? DC-10 ? Is there actually the demand for a MSP-FBU flight ? — kev http://www.geocities.com/southbeach/marina/6273/index.html np: something by someone on woxy-97x you can dye your hair, but its the one thing you can change. can’t run away from yourself… -pulp

Response:

I’ve been looking through USA Today for the past few days during school & noticed Northwest’s advertisements for their new MSP-FBU service

Actually it will be MSP to OSL, since Fornebu (FBU) closed last October, and Oslo’s airport is at Gardemoen (sp?) now. and was wondering if anyone knew what type of plane will be used on this run ? DC-10 ?

Yes. Is there actually the demand for a MSP-FBU flight ?

Well, given that the instructions on the pay phones at MSP are also in Norwegian, yes, I think so. This route will also feed Brathens’ hub at OSL for connections to other Scandinavian cities. Northwest flew MSP-FBU in the 70’s and 80’s. -Erik

Response:

I’ve been looking through USA Today for the past few days during school & noticed Northwest’s advertisements for their new MSP-FBU service Actually it will be MSP to OSL, since Fornebu (FBU) closed last October, and Oslo’s airport is at Gardemoen (sp?) now.

Oops. Sorry about that. And is the code for Gardermoen really OSL ? I thought it was GEN. Is there actually the demand for a MSP-FBU flight ? Well, given that the instructions on the pay phones at MSP are also in Norwegian, yes, I think so.

I never knew. Quite fascinating, really. This route will also feed Brathens’ hub at OSL for connections to other Scandinavian cities. Northwest flew MSP-FBU in the 70’s and 80’s.

Why not a MSP-CPH or a MSP-ARN flight instead of a MSP-OSL/GEN flight for connections to other Scandinavian cities ? Is it because of Northwest’s previous experience flying MSP-FBU ? — kev http://www.geocities.com/southbeach/marina/6273/index.html np: something by someone on WOXY-97x. you can dye your hair, but its the one thing you can change. can’t run away from yourself… -pulp

Response:

says… I’ve been looking through USA Today for the past few days during school & noticed Northwest’s advertisements for their new MSP-FBU service Actually it will be MSP to OSL, since Fornebu (FBU) closed last October, and Oslo’s airport is at Gardemoen (sp?) now. Oops. Sorry about that. And is the code for Gardermoen really OSL ? I thought it was GEN.

I would have thought OSL is the city code for Oslo. GEN is or was certainly the airport code for Gardermoen – or maybe they have changed GEN to OSL now that FBU is closed and GEN is a "real" airport? Well, given that the instructions on the pay phones at MSP are also in Norwegian, yes, I think so. I never knew. Quite fascinating, really.

You have to be kidding. MSP? I never heard of any oil, fishing or knitting industry in Minnesota? Northwest flew MSP-FBU in the 70’s and 80’s.

I think they also used to fly ARN-JFK in the 80’s. P-O — Per-Olof Litby Product Mgr, Microsoft Nordic, Box 27, 16493 Kista, Sweden Mobile +46 70 452-2885 Dates in your calendar are closer than they appear.

Response:

Oops. Sorry about that. And is the code for Gardermoen really OSL ? I thought it was GEN

I think it was GEN until FBU was closed, and then became OSL, since it is now Oslo’s one official airport (I am ignoring Torp) Why not a MSP-CPH or a MSP-ARN flight instead of a MSP-OSL/GEN flight for connections to other Scandinavian cities ? Is it because of Northwest’s previous experience flying MSP-FBU ?

Again, I thin it is to hook into Brathen’s system, which is partly owned by NW’s partner KLM. I think that the ORD-CPH and ORD-ARN service that SAS/United offers (and SAS’s control over CPH and ARN) forces "Wings" (NW/Brathens) to OSL. -Erik

Response:

You have to be kidding. MSP? I never heard of any oil, fishing or knitting industry in Minnesota?

You obviously never listen to A Prarie Home Companion on National Public Radio. Quick history:  When the Great Northern and the Northern Pacific were being built, they actively recruited Scandinavians to populate the lands given to them to build the rail lines by the U.S. government (homesteading). Thus, to this day, the prominent heritage of European-Americans who live between Minneapolis and Seattle is Scandinavian (Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, Icelandic, and Finn) -Erik -Erik

Response:

Really?  Where?  I lived there for 15 years and don’t ever recall this.

Next time you are at the airport, look in the main hall.: Northwest flew MSP-FBU in the 70’s and 80’s. Yep, and MSP-ARN as well if I recall correctly.

I think it was a MSP-ARN-FBU triangle. -Erik

Response:

Thus, to this day, the prominent heritage of European-Americans who live between Minneapolis and Seattle is Scandinavian (Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, Icelandic, and Finn)

There’s a strong majority of people of German/Swiss/Austrian descent in some areas as well, though.  Particularly southern and western Minnesota. —                      Written online using slrn 0.9.5.4!                    The Theorem Theorem: If If, Then Then.

Response:

Is there actually the demand for a MSP-FBU flight ?

MSP-OSL yes, because there is only one non-stop a day from Oslo to USA and that is with SAS’s 767. Nice with a timesaving alternative. Anders

Response:

Question:

Howell Raines’ great book "Fly Fishing the Midlife Crisis" is on sale for only $5.99 at www.bargainbookwarehouse.com. In the stores it sells for $22. I don’t think they have any other fishing books.

Response:

"Fly Fishing Through the Midlife Crisis" I agree that it is an excellent read, and I’m not even at mid-life yet…Clint – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Howell Raines’ great book "Fly Fishing the Midlife Crisis" is on sale for only $5.99 at www.bargainbookwarehouse.com. In the stores it sells for $22. I don’t think they have any other fishing books.

Response:

Question:

I would echo Tom Hewitt’s comment re: standing in a canoe
to flyfish.  Canoes are an excellent platform if you want to develop the skill. I would note, however, that not all canoes
perform equally for this purpose.  As mentioned in Tom’s article
flat, shallow-v, and shallow-arch bottomed boats in general are
better choices to begin with. But keep in mind that your own sense of balance will determine which boat you feel most comfortable in.  Some v-hulled canoes are rather narrow (33 inches and less for 16′ length) and tho stable feeling while sitting, grow inherently less stable as the the center
of gravity moves higher compared to wider (34" up width) boats.
There are several ways to become accustomed to standing in a
canoe to flyfish or pole, or to scout a rapid, etc…  One would be to simply take the boat you have now and start practicing.
The second would be to borrow or use as flat-bottomed a boat as you can find and start at that level.  Progress to a better quality canoe as you feel more capable.  Your progress will be
limited only by your tenacity.  Even so, it is not a hard skill
to learn.
One can also attach sponsons or outriggers to add a measure of safety and security to your initial efforts.  However, these add-ons are not very portable, interfere with the maneuverability of the canoe, and are only necessary if one’s sense of balance is not particularly good.  Purchasing or building
these appertenances is a personal call.  Look in the classified section of Paddler or Canoe and Kayak magazine for info on these products. As to finding a used boat.  Good luck.  Good quality used canoes are snapped up pretty quickly and are hard to find. One suggestion that might pan out is your local canoe club.  Members
are always buying and swapping.  Call the American Canoe Assoc.
member club that is closest to you to get info.  Their web address
is: http://www.aca-paddler.org/
Dave Hadden, Owner
Vision Canoes
http://www.digisys.net/vision — Posted using Reference.COM                         http://www.reference.com Browse, Search and Post         Usenet and Mailing list Archive and Catalog. InReference, Inc. accepts no responsibility for the content of this posting.

Response:

Question:

Anyone with experience flyfishing the Morehead City NC area during the summer? Wife wants to go on vacation there in the late July/Aug timeframe… Understand there is good wading on the inland waterway there and some opportunities for FF with guides… Any experience?

Response:

 (J. Marker) writes: Anyone with experience flyfishing the Morehead City NC area during the summer? … opportunities for FF with guides… Any experience?

Call John Martyn at Martyn’s Sea & Stream (919-403-1604) in Durham, NC.  He can give you good information and put you in touch with area guides.  I’ve fished with Bill Harris and will be going with him again. (John can give you his number]. Good fishing! J. Rice

Response:

Anyone with experience flyfishing the Morehead City NC area during the summer? Wife wants to go on vacation there in the late July/Aug timeframe… Understand there is good wading on the inland waterway there and some opportunities for FF with guides… Any experience?

The best thing going in the summer months is spanish mackerel fishing.  Go out to Cape Lookout and look for schools breaking water along the hook. Fish will be all inside the bight.  Sometimes using anchored yachts for ambush points.  Beautiful place too, very secluded, about 7 miles from Beaufort and Morehead.  Contact me and I could take you

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Question:

Standing up in a canoe is like anything else.  Doing it right requires practice.  I’ve done it but I don’t like to stand in a canoe.  When I was looking for the boat I have now, a kayak, I received many recommendations saying that I should get a canoe.  The main point was that I could pole a WW canoe up a shallow run when, with a kayak, I’d have to get out and wade.  They had a good point and I have had to wade some chutes that I could have poled a boat up.  However, my kayak offers many advantages for a solo paddler and I normally use it for transportation to a place and then I get out and do whatever I’m going to do. Bob — —– Bob Perkins, Director of Institutional Research and Planning Methodist College Fayetteville, NC  28311                          Office: 910-630-7037

Response:

I am considering purchasing a canoe or kayak for quick trips to the lakes, rivers and bays for fly fishing and recreation around Houston.  Most of the time I will be fishing alone, but would like to take my son or another friend at times.  Day trips only, no overnight or long journeys anticipated.   Suggestions as to canoe vs kayak and other details would be appreciated.  Size, composition, design, etc. would all be helpful.

Response:

I am considering purchasing a canoe or kayak for quick trips to the lakes, rivers and bays for fly fishing and recreation around Houston.  Most of the time I will be fishing alone, but would like to take my son or another friend at times.  Day trips only, no overnight or long journeys anticipated.   Suggestions as to canoe vs kayak and other details would be appreciated.  Size, composition, design, etc. would all be helpful.I bought a 13 foot Navarro canoe that I like a lot.  It’s pretty light

at 58 pounds, 38 inches wide with a pretty flat bottom (flattened arch is what the brochure calls it) which gives it enough initial stability that you can actually stand up in it to cast, though I don’t very often. It’s built with resin impregnated cherry wood ribs and a fiberglass skin. It’s quite pretty to look at if that’s important to you…about $900.  It’s not designed for white water but handles very nicely on lakes and slower moving water with one or two anglers aboard. E-mail me if you have any questions…We-No-Nah makes a canoe with similar configuration, size and weight.  No wood but it’s about $150 cheaper, and they also make a good canoe.  Happy hunting. Dean Henry

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: I am considering purchasing a canoe or kayak for quick trips to the lakes, rivers and bays for I’ve never owned or tried a kayak, but my guess is they would not be a comfortable general-purpose fishing platform. I used to own a 12ft canoe that was absolutley great alone, but really could not handle two people. For two, I wouldn’t go smaller than 15ft. We have an Old Town Discovery 15"8", and like it alot. I handle it alone (car-top) always, and I’m a small guy; its 80lbs, but if you’re willing to spend more you can get much lighter canoes. Just go to a shop and pick up all the canoe maker’s sales booklets. These will explain different hull shapes, etc., and I think you’ll see what you want pretty quickly. If not, then talk to a salesperson. I don’t know how much time you’ve spent in boats or in canoes, but if you have no experience, you might find canoes a bit nervous. I think some people get used to it and some don’t; I’m not sure you can ever tell ahead of time. Just gotta try it, I guess. good luck, Jon Cook.

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Canoe probably your best bet. Its only draw back is the extra weight. I have a poke boat which is a semi covered deck, very light, kayak like boat. Its great for getting around, but forget even kneeling in it. In a canoe you could, with care, stand to cast. I. Clair

Response:

I second the Aquaterra Keowee.  I bought the single seat model early this year and I love it.  It’s actually a pretty good fly fishing platform, but I use it mostly for getting to where I want to fish and then wading if possible.  It’s stable, lightweight, and floats in anything, but you have to sit in it, no kneeling.   Doug

Response:

David, I e-mailed you the other day, but I think I forgot to send it. Duhh! Anyway, I’ll repeat what I wrote and you can ignore this if I did send. If you are planning to take two kids along you will need a canoe. It is challenging for three people to fly fish from a canoe. You’ll have to take turns casting. If you want to have a real blast fishing solo, try a Keowee. It is a 9 foot long, 30-40 pound heavy duty plastic molded recreational kayak. No whitewater for this baby, but it is great for poking around in places that even a canoe can’t easily get into and out of. It has just enough room for a small amount of gear and is very stable – not `tippy’ like most kayaks. Once you are in, it is nearly untippable. It takes a wee while to get used to getting in and out – not a easy as a canoe – but I love mine. My fishing friend and I each have one and we just pop them on the roof racks and off we go. They are made in the U.S. by a company called Aguaterra. They make many models, so specify the Keowee. It comes in several colours, including camo I think, and costs about $300 US. I think LL Bean sells it and maybe even Eddy Bauer. I bought mine in Maine from Maine Sport near Camden. I’ve also seen it in Kittery Maine at a large outfitter (can’t remember the name) and at the LLBean store in Freeport, Maine. In New Hampshire I have seen it in Littleton at the LaHouts Sports Store. I believe I’ve seen it in the LLBean catalog. I also use a canoe sometimes and own a float tube. I enjoy them all. Have fun with whatever you end up buying. Sandy

Response:

I have something very similar – it’s a Creek Boat. It’s a one man, sit down low, fishing boat. It has a small livewell and a mounting block for a trolling motor and a foot steering system built in. Mine has oarlocks added also. Price is in the same range. It is a little lighter, but it is not indestructible. -Andy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I second the Aquaterra Keowee.  I bought the single seat model early this year and I love it.  It’s actually a pretty good fly fishing platform, but I use it mostly for getting to where I want to fish and then wading if possible.  It’s stable, lightweight, and floats in anything, but you have to sit in it, no kneeling.  

Response:

In a canoe you could, with care, stand to cast.

Careful here. That is sort of like saying "in an automobile you could, with care, enter the Pikes Peak road rally".   You’d best not stand in a canoe with a rounded bottom and no keel, such as typical for whitewater.  Pick one with a wide beam, flat or shallow vee bottom and tumblehome – wider at or just above the waterline than at the gunwales. The manufacturers offer different models for various purposes. Pick one made for fishing or cargo or family use, not whitewater or fast cruising. Mark Vinsel http://www.lanminds.com/local/vinnie/gallery.html

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – David, I e-mailed you the other day, but I think I forgot to send it. Duhh! Anyway, I’ll repeat what I wrote and you can ignore this if I did send. If you are planning to take two kids along you will need a canoe. It is challenging for three people to fly fish from a canoe. You’ll have to take turns casting. If you want to have a real blast fishing solo, try a Keowee. It is a 9 foot long, 30-40 pound heavy duty plastic molded recreational kayak. No whitewater for this baby, but it is great for poking around in places that even a canoe can’t easily get into and out of. It has just enough room for a small amount of gear and is very stable – not `tippy’ like most kayaks. Once you are in, it is nearly untippable. It takes a wee while to get used to getting in and out – not a easy as a canoe – but I love mine. My fishing friend and I each have one and we just pop them on the roof racks and off we go. They are made in the U.S. by a company called Aguaterra. They make many models, so specify the Keowee. It comes in several colours, including camo I think, and costs about $300 US. I think LL Bean sells it and maybe even Eddy Bauer. I bought mine in Maine from Maine Sport near Camden. I’ve also seen it in Kittery Maine at a large outfitter (can’t remember the name) and at the LLBean store in Freeport, Maine. In New Hampshire I have seen it in Littleton at the LaHouts Sports Store. I believe I’ve seen it in the LLBean catalog. I also use a canoe sometimes and own a float tube. I enjoy them all. Have fun with whatever you end up buying. Sandy

VISUALLY SPEAKING, from an outsider’s point of view.  Visual Pollution is just as real as many other forms.  I imagine, to someone of your generation, fly fishing out of a kayak, to many of us would be like seeing a whale turd in a party punch-bowl.  You not only don’t like looking at it, you wouldn’t use it either.  Yet, float tubes are another matter and I cannot explain to you why.  Go for a canoe, my friend. nuff said. George Gehrke

Response:

Go with a canoe.  The Keowee is a nice platform, but its carrying capacity is limited.  I know a guy who fishes out of a sea kayak, but he paddles 2-5 times a week and normally doesn’t fly fish.  It’s theoretically possible for me to fly fish out of my Prijon Taifun (kayak), but if I’m going to fly fish I’ll use the boat to get where I’m going and then wade. Bob — —– Bob Perkins, Director of Institutional Research and Planning Methodist College Fayetteville, NC  28311                          Office: 910-630-7037

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One important consideration in chosing a craft for flyfishing is comfort. I have a 16′ Greenland style kayak that I use in the ocean. I also spend some time in the surf on a sit_on_top style kayak (you wouldn’t believe how many stripers hang out in that surf). Of the two, the sit on top is probably more stable for casting and fighting fish, and is certainly a better surf boat, but it is much less efficient to paddle and for me, is very uncomfortable. The one I’ve been using, ocean kayaks ‘frenzy’, has ribs built into it to give multiple places for bracing your feet. I suppose if you are 2" shorter or taller than me it would probably be a comfortable fit, but no matter how much I adjust the seat I can’t get a comfortable fit. Thus, I can’t imagine spending a lot of time trying to cast from it. Most conventional kayaks have internal foot braces that are adjustable. So if you decide to go plastic/sit on top I’d recommend spending at least one hour sitting in the boat to see if it is comfortable for you. Casting when your legs are cramping up can be a drag.                                                         jc

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I recently went through the canoe vs. kayak dilemma and settled with a kayak–a folding kayak. Although I had wanted a platform I could stand in, the seaworthiness and the portability of the folding kayak ruled out.  Obviously it’s nice to have easy access to my gear, food, etc. and even bring along someone else, but a kayak was a much better choice for me as I do most of my flyfishing is saltwater and I often travel by air to fish. The kayak I bought, a Feathercraft K Light Plus folds into a backpack and weighs only 32 pounds; it takes only 15 minutes to assemble; my rod fits under the deck bungees and I can take it out easily. The best thing is that I can take the kayak out into open ocean and not be concerned about being swamped over and I can fight a current quite easily.  I’ve been in big rips and paddled right back-up the beach to my car and fished in four foot swells–no problem. In a canoe in current I’d be swept away. I’m sure I will take it to the Everglades for redfishing and  the Keys and Bahamas for bonefishing just as I took it to Martha’s Vineyard for stripers, blues, and bonito. The kayak is fast, too.  If getting to a destination is your objective, you will expend much less energy and have more time for fishing if you use kayak rather than a canoe. As far as casting from the kayak goes it has yet to be a problem–I just keep the backcast high–no need to stand. As far as storage goes, I keep most of what I need in a waterproof deck bag and waterproof bags in the hull. Folding kayaks are not inexpensive; but for the ability to take it wherever I want to fish, it’s worth it. Good luck, Darren Lew New York, NY

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It is actually pretty hard to tip a family/fishing type canoe. The first thing you should do is go out and tip yours on purpose (or tip a demo model before you buy). Learn how it reacts, and what it takes to tip it. Do this with two people – have one stand and the other make some sudden moves.

I used to stand up while surfing waves in my Blue Hole in my wilder days of youth ;- In my experience, in most cases the canoe stays upright when someone standing in it falls out. The canoe gets "pushed out of the way" rather than capsizing, or the person loses footing and trips trying to regain it in the confines of a canoe (most come with rather small dance floors). In a wide keeled boat, this is less likely to happen, but it still is a risk. Even small jon boats exhibit this "snatch-the-rug" behavior. The pedestals in bass boats are there largely for stability; people aren’t that good at standing in small areas without something to lean on for any length of time. Try marking off a small rectangle and stand in it casting for a while without stepping outside of it. I would plan on sitting to cast most of the time. If (big if when you are as sloppy as I am) you have a nice tight loop it doesn’t need to drop below shoulder level anyway. -Andy

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writes: Canoe probably your best bet. Its only draw back is the extra weight. I have a poke boat which is a semi covered deck, very light, kayak like boat. Its great for getting around, but forget even kneeling in it. In a canoe you could, with care, stand to cast. I. Clair

Alot depends on the canoe. I have a mad river winoski that I have no problem standing in however, the tradoff for that stabality is speed. Other models are faster than my boat some are more durable, less durable, lighter or heavier. Boats vary alot in what they are designed for, you may want to take a look at rec.boats.paddle. Also get a honest idea of what you want from a boat, then go talk to a dealer that knows boats. Canoes are canoes in the same way cars are cars, if you need a pickup you will never be satisfied with a civic. Lastly, the main item that keep me away from a Poke is I need the versitility that a canoe offers. I can carry two adults ,my lab and decoys. Yet, it is not too much boat for one person to fish from solo. Charles

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David…I would recommend a canoe based on your intended use. I currently have two We-No-Nah canoes which are incredible for their intended use, the c-1 for racing and the tandem for backcountry touring. For your use a basic Coleman or Old Town would be fine, why spend the bucks for weight savings or paddling efficiency when you can get what you need for a quarter of the cost? Since you are not going to do any major carries or long distance paddling stick with the basics. By the way if you do go with a canoe I still wouldn’t advise on standing to cast. Good luck with your decision. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am considering purchasing a canoe or kayak for quick trips to the lakes, rivers and bays for fly fishing and recreation around Houston.  Most of the time I will be fishing alone, but would like to take my son or another friend at times.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – David, I e-mailed you the other day, but I think I forgot to send it. Duhh! Anyway, I’ll repeat what I wrote and you can ignore this if I did send. If you are planning to take two kids along you will need a canoe. It is challenging for three people to fly fish from a canoe. You’ll have to take turns casting. If you want to have a real blast fishing solo, try a Keowee. ……. VISUALLY SPEAKING, from an outsider’s point of view.  Visual Pollution is just as real as many other forms.  I imagine, to someone of your generation, fly fishing out of a kayak, to many of us would be like seeing a whale turd in a party punch-bowl.  You not only don’t like looking at it, you wouldn’t use it either.  Yet, float tubes are another matter and I cannot explain to you why.  Go for a canoe, my friend. nuff said. George Gehrke

So far, great responses and advice, and all is appreciated.  At this point, I will approach the purchase by several methods, all tempered with everyone’s input (even George’s – more later).  In Houston, we have REI and Sun & Ski Sports stores, as well as others that will rent kayaks and canoes.  I intend to try several.  Also, I have found several kayak and canoe clubs that give demonstrations and/or lessons.  Knowledge is a powerful tool, especially when so cheaply obtained!  To George – I not only explained to my 9 year old son the visual nuances and social faux pax of a "whale turd in a party punch bowl", but also of some peoples’ intolerance to the lifestyles of others.  Gee, I am in my mid forties with gray hair, yet you seem to believe I am some twenty year old doing an endo and scaring the trout – although whitewater kayaking is on my to-do list. Imagine the visual pollution of the first bamboo rod to a greenheart rod holder, the first fiberglass rod to a bamboo holder, the first graphite rod to a fiberglass rod holder!  Is your mode of transportation a horse, a Model T, a `57 Chevy, a bicycle, a Viper, a bus??!!?  Yet, ornithopters are another matter, and I cannot explain to you why, my friend. "Strive to leave for our children a better world, then they will do the same for theirs."     – David Hinners

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Question:

 Could someone post a response as to where the location of the nearest hospital or emergency treatment center is to the St. Regis Canoe area in the northern adirondack section of New York State?   I’ve gotten conflicting info about Tupper Lake, Paul Smiths, etc. I would like to have the location in mind just in case a planned trip there has a medical emergency arise. Thanks, Woody

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Saranac Village has a very nice hospital. I had to take my wife there last year when she was bitten by a "carrion fly" who left behind some foreign matter and she had a nasty reaction to it. Her leg swelled up about twice its size and nasty red streaks were running up toward her hip… The highest volume patient service that the emergency crew there provides is the removal of fishing hooks . There is no hospital at Paul Smiths, although the College has a first aid facility when the students are there.  I suspect there is one at Tupper Lake, but I don’t know for certain. -Tim — Tim Hewitt – President, Downeast Chapter Wooden Canoe Heritage Association, Ltd http://www.wcha.org

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Question:

Anyone fished this lake? Any good? I’ll be in SF mid-April.

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Anyone fished this lake? Any good? I’ll be in SF mid-April.

There are fish there I guess. I use to see some people around the edges with poles. I never saw a fish and I doubt if flies wil be of any use.. Regards — Michael Paine Mit der Dummheit kampfen Gotter selbst vergebens.

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Anyone fished this lake? Any good? I’ll be in SF mid-April.

  To say that Merced is a lake is a bit of a stretch.There are some large marshmellow eater’s in that pond (s). The flat "concrete"  noses of the fish are truly nice:-).  Fish the surf  (salt) , which is less than a mile away.    Harry

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There are some huge trout in that lake…..there is a upper and lower portion tho. Not sure which one is better. I believe that the upper lake needs a  boat more than the other one. I agree with that one post regarding flies. I havent seen fish rising out there and bait dunkers catch the most fish. But for bait fisherman Merced has some lunkers. Kurtz-

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snip But for bait fisherman Merced has some lunkers.

Primarily retired brood stock from hatcheries around the state. Ross Wilson

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 writes:

: :Anyone fished this lake? Any good? I’ll be in SF mid-April. This is a put and take lake that is not known for fly fishing. That said, there are some big fish planted, (and maybe some holovers.) I have lived in the area for 18 years and have thought about what a wooly bugger might do. Just never got around to trying. There are boat rentals available. So give it a try. George Berns Trout Live in Beautiful Places

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