Question:

1. How many days should we spend in Bangkok?

Three days, two if you are in a hurry and just want to see the major things. But you can also spend five days in Bangkok without getting bored. 2. Same question for Chiang Mai.  How many days?  I don’t mean to ask dumb questions but I am trying to figure out how many days to spend at these places.

Two days in Chiang Mai, some extra days if you do a trek in the mountain. 3. As far as beach areas, our travel agent is pushing Phuket and Ko Samui.  How desolate are these areas?  I mean, can I go walking on the beach and expect to see fewer than 10 people or will there be hundreds all over the beach?  The last thing I want is to go to some beach resort with hundreds of people.

Forget Phuket. Koh Samui is also quite crowded, although not as bad a Phuket. Koh Samet which the other poster suggested is not bad. See to get an idea how the island looks in high season: http://www.molon.de/galleries/Thailand_Dec01/KohSamet/page_.shtml 4. Any reviews of the Golden Buddha resort in the Andaman Sea.  I am looking for a very quiet place but I don’t necessarily want to spend 6 hours getting to that place from Phuket if Phuket is desolate enough during the off peak season.

Don’t go to Phuket. — Alfred Molon Remove the obvious to email Olympus C4040 online resource at http://www.molon.de/4040.html Photo galleries at http://www.molon.de/Galleries.htm

Response:

The closest beach resorts to Bangkok, Pattaya and Cha Am/Hua Hin will both be busy, Koh Samet or Koh Chang, both past Pattaya are probably a good bet, or otherwise go down the coast south of Bangkok to very remote beaches such as Bang Saphan. — Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Response:

My fiancee and I are seasoned travellers spending two weeks in thailand for the first time.  I have a few questions that I’m hoping people here can answer.  We are going at the end of October which I know is an off peak time.  The plan is to fly into Bangkok, spend a few days at a beach area, fly up to Chiang Mai, and then back to Bangkok. 1. How many days should we spend in Bangkok?

3 ,depends on how you handle the air polution too 2. Same question for Chiang Mai.  How many days?  I don’t mean to ask dumb questions but I am trying to figure out how many days to spend at these places.

3 3. As far as beach areas, our travel agent is pushing Phuket and Ko Samui.  How desolate are these areas?  I mean, can I go walking on the beach and expect to see fewer than 10 people or will there be hundreds all over the beach?  The last thing I want is to go to some beach resort with hundreds of people.

depends on where on the island patong is busy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -4. Any reviews of the Golden Buddha resort in the Andaman Sea.  I am looking for a very quiet place but I don’t necessarily want to spend 6 hours getting to that place from Phuket if Phuket is desolate enough during the off peak season. Anyway, I have written a lot and let me stop here. I thank you for your time. V

Response:

My fiancee and I are seasoned travellers spending two weeks in thailand for the first time.  I have a few questions that I’m hoping people here can answer.  We are going at the end of October which I know is an off peak time.  The plan is to fly into Bangkok, spend a few days at a beach area, fly up to Chiang Mai, and then back to Bangkok. 1. How many days should we spend in Bangkok?

We were in Bangkok a total of 4 days, 5 nights in July of this year. 1st night was at the beginning of our trip as we arrived at 11pm. Spent the next day in Bangkok and then took the night train to Chaing Mai.  We had a compartment and it was a great trip.  Since it is you honeymoon, you should be aware that the berths are designed of one person but adequate for more than one if necessary.    The last 4 nights of our trip were also spent in Bangkok.  We saw many of the highlites and several other interesting things.  You could spend a month in this city but it is not a relaxing place.  I’d do it at the end of my vacation if you are looking for peace and quiet first. 2. Same question for Chiang Mai.  How many days?  I don’t mean to ask dumb questions but I am trying to figure out how many days to spend at these places.

We spent a total of 8 nights in the north, none in Chaing Mai.  The first 4 days were with a guide and we toured quite extensively.  Not sure how a third person would fit into a honeymoon situation.  I guess I wouldn’t like it.  But I can recommend a fantastic guide.  We did tour around Chaing Mai and the Night Market is not to miss.   3. As far as beach areas, our travel agent is pushing Phuket and Ko Samui.  How desolate are these areas?  I mean, can I go walking on the beach and expect to see fewer than 10 people or will there be hundreds all over the beach?  The last thing I want is to go to some beach resort with hundreds of people.

We spent 4 nights on Koh Samui at a terrific place.  Called Rocky Resort.  It is south of Lamai beach.  The very popular Chaweng beach is popular for a reason, it’s very scenic.  Also fairly busy.  At Rocky resort, the private beach is small but you can walk south from the place along a deserted beach for about 2km to a fishing village. No resorts that way.  I don’t think the beach is a great swimming beach but they were talking about clearing out some of the coral to improve it when we were there.  Rocky is designed for the crowd that doesn’t encourage wild parties or have teenagers and children.  While they are around, the place is still very quiet.  Good restaurant also. Easy taxi ride to other locations. Great people that run it. 4. Any reviews of the Golden Buddha resort in the Andaman Sea.  I am looking for a very quiet place but I don’t necessarily want to spend 6 hours getting to that place from Phuket if Phuket is desolate enough during the off peak season.

If you want desolate, go to Koh pha ngan, the next island after Samui. Stay away from Haad Rin at the south and pick one of the northern beaches.  There is nobody.  Not sure of the accomodation but somebody on the web can probably advise. Any specific questions or if you want to be bored with my 20 page travel journal email me at Have a great trip! Gord. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Anyway, I have written a lot and let me stop here. I thank you for your time. V

Response:

My fiancee and I are seasoned travellers spending two weeks in thailand for the first time.  I have a few questions that I’m hoping people here can answer.  We are going at the end of October which I know is an off peak time.  The plan is to fly into Bangkok, spend a few days at a beach area, fly up to Chiang Mai, and then back to Bangkok. 1. How many days should we spend in Bangkok? 2. Same question for Chiang Mai.  How many days?  I don’t mean to ask dumb questions but I am trying to figure out how many days to spend at these places. 3. As far as beach areas, our travel agent is pushing Phuket and Ko Samui.  How desolate are these areas?  I mean, can I go walking on the beach and expect to see fewer than 10 people or will there be hundreds all over the beach?  The last thing I want is to go to some beach resort with hundreds of people. 4. Any reviews of the Golden Buddha resort in the Andaman Sea.  I am looking for a very quiet place but I don’t necessarily want to spend 6 hours getting to that place from Phuket if Phuket is desolate enough during the off peak season. Anyway, I have written a lot and let me stop here. I thank you for your time. V

Response:

My fiancee and I are seasoned travellers spending two weeks in thailand for the first time.  I have a few questions that I’m hoping people here can answer.  We are going at the end of October which I know is an off peak time.  The plan is to fly into Bangkok, spend a few days at a beach area, fly up to Chiang Mai, and then back to Bangkok. 1. How many days should we spend in Bangkok?

At least two or three days you need to see some of the highlights. 2. Same question for Chiang Mai.  How many days?  I don’t mean to ask dumb questions but I am trying to figure out how many days to spend at these places.

Depends on if you want to do a trekking (3 days). Chiang Mai is a relaxing town and you need at least one or two days for it. 3. As far as beach areas, our travel agent is pushing Phuket and Ko Samui.  How desolate are these areas?  I mean, can I go walking on the beach and expect to see fewer than 10 people or will there be hundreds all over the beach?  The last thing I want is to go to some beach resort with hundreds of people.

Go to Ko Samed. It is nearby Bangkok and some of the beaches are very desolated. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 4. Any reviews of the Golden Buddha resort in the Andaman Sea.  I am looking for a very quiet place but I don’t necessarily want to spend 6 hours getting to that place from Phuket if Phuket is desolate enough during the off peak season. Anyway, I have written a lot and let me stop here. I thank you for your time. V

Response:

Question:

Actually, flyrods are more since that was quoted correctly.  Secondary part costs have increased dramatically since the Clinton defascoes and Greenspan screw ups with the economy.

So until you give me a new figure let’s work with a  100% increase on costs over the past four years (although I can’t beleive it should be this high). That still implies a helathy profit of several 100%. You have not used the correct price at all.  Most of the fly rods are around $500 – $700.  

Check your own website. I clearly stated I was using the MSRP which is quoted at $1620 to $3000. This is the price you expect a retailer to charge for your rods. or did you post a hugely inflated MSRP in order to make your rods appear to be worth more tahn they really are. Surely that would be unethical… George Gehrke "bamboosan" http://www.gink.com George Gehrke "lowest priced bamboo fly rods regardless"

And this is wrong too. Your MSRPs for your product line rods are higher (and in some cases considerably higher) than the price of most handmade rods which, as you have admitted yourself in the past, have higher quality.

Response:

The Cortland "444 Clear Camo" is the most popular here in California, USA, planet earth.

For those in the know (such as my cat) the inter-galactic postal service now requires both "Galaxy" AND "ZIP + AZ + RA" for speedy delivery… K

Response:

  Where the fuck are those guys in white coats when you need them? Playing Poker over at Wayne Harrison’s house:  Joker’s Wild? Glad to see you’re not brain dead yet by responding to my troll of vulgarity. My apologies for the civilized language. Mr.G. "back to regular casting"

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Actually, flyrods are more since that was quoted correctly.  Secondary  part costs have increased dramatically since the Clinton defascoes and  Greenspan screw ups with the economy. So until you give me a new figure let’s work with a  100% increase on costs over the past four years (although I can’t beleive it should be this high). That still implies a helathy profit of several 100%. You have not used the correct price at all.  Most of the fly rods are  around $500 – $700. Check your own website. I clearly stated I was using the MSRP which is quoted at $1620 to $3000. This is the price you expect a retailer to charge for your rods. or did you post a hugely inflated MSRP in order to make your rods appear to be worth more tahn they really are. Surely that would be unethical… Whoa, right here ass hole.  You don’t know for jack shit the quality of our fly rods.  Admit it!  Where is your source of knowledge derived from?? Other assholes?

You should learn to read and comprehend and control your infamous short-temper. You are supposed to be a mature adult, so why not start acting like one. I did not say your rods are of bad quality. I asked if they were really worth $1600 to $3000, which are prices commanded by top quality, hand made rods, constructed by gentlemen with many years of craftmanship behind them. You have often commneted yourself that your rods are of porduction line quality, and, while they may or may not be the best production line rods in the world, I find it hard to believe they are of the same quality level as the handmade rods, and therefore worth an equivalent amount. So, I ask you, would you put your rod with a MSRP of $3000 (note, I said MSRP, not "special online price") up against a hand-made rod charged at $3000? Would you gurantee your rod to be of the same quality and standard as that handmade rod? I’ll tell you what.  I dare you, if you wish to see a beautiful bamboo to order one and in your case you will pay in advance for a Bastard for a bastard.  I will defy you to  be able to find fault with it compared to any other bamboo fly rod in the world. Okay, you chicken shit son of a bitch.  What say you? George Gehrke bamboosan

I have no wish whatsoever to do business with a man who uses such language and shows such obvious contempt for his "customers". I am very choosy about who I give my money to. Sorry.

Response:

Some people wonder why the hell little bottles of Floatant sell for $20 NZ here…

Is there money to be made smuggling Albolene to NZ? — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

Some people wonder why the hell little bottles of Floatant sell for $20 NZ here… Clark

You can always order factory direct as ours don’t sell for that there Clark. Even the cost of postage would be cheaper than what it takes you to drive to the store. Your Pal, George

Response:

Some people wonder why the hell little bottles of Floatant sell for $20 NZ here… Clark

Um, isn’t that about 8.00USD?  Granted, more expensive than in the US, but considering the costs involved versus the market, that doesn’t, on the face of it, sound so outrageous.  Of course, if it’s Ginkle’s Gunk, I can see the basis for your confusion… TC, R

Response:

Rusty?  I did an extensive article with drawings on how fly lines are made. The engineering has been paid for long ago and that deals with line tapers mainly.  What does change are coatings and finishes.  That is all. The process is so simple as to boggle the mind and the cost of making a fly line is indeed one of the lowest in American Manufacturing in the industry. This is why one can readily appreciate HOW a company like Cortland can afford full page ads in magazines.  The profit margin is so vast as to be literally obnoxious and unfair.  Just like Frog Butt, the fly fishermen of America are NOT getting a square or honest deal when it comes to fly lines. No joke.  Fly lines from all the manufacturers are over priced.  I mean, WAY over priced! Consider this.  A Cortland 333 or 444 could be bought in Wal-Mart here in Lewiston Idaho just a week ago and  for several years for the low, Low, LOW price of only $11.57.  Would you like to hear the rest of the story? The new (and I wonder about this term as a hype bite) 555 Cortland costs no more to make than any other Cortland Fly Line.  If they cost more, okay; I’ll let you increase that factor about what this article is worth.  How about .02 Cents? George Gehrke Each of these fly lines all cast the same, believe it or not.  It’s nothing to get excited about.  Fly lines are expendable and as far as I’m concerned, the 555 should sell for LESS THAN Twenty dollars per line. You know everyone?  I keep saying this time and time again.  The packaging costs more than what it takes to make a fly line and the labor required is not much at all, but for some odd reason this fact just doesn’t soak in. Fly line companies need to be boycotted if you want to get them back into the honesty game, like it or not.  Thing is, it’s all I mainly fish with is Cortland Fly Lines but I use only the fairly priced ones and always will. George Gehrke "Inside Trade Secrets"

Response:

Yep! Clark

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Some people wonder why the hell little bottles of Floatant sell for $20 NZ here… Is there money to be made smuggling Albolene to NZ? — visit my web site: http://home.earthlink.net/~royalwulff/

Response:

Yep basically but my point was, even at $8.00 US, for what it is some people just are not in a position to be bitching about how Cortland prices its lines, apart from the obvious factors already pointed out about the engineering and development and manufacture of new lines. Cortland didn’t just find a material used to keep ladies knickers up and repackage it as an expensive fly line. Clark

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Some people wonder why the hell little bottles of Floatant sell for $20 NZ here… Clark Um, isn’t that about 8.00USD?  Granted, more expensive than in the US, but considering the costs involved versus the market, that doesn’t, on the face of it, sound so outrageous.  Of course, if it’s Ginkle’s Gunk, I can see the basis for your confusion… TC, R

Response:

Yep basically but my point was, even at $8.00 US, for what it is some people just are not in a position to be bitching about how Cortland prices its lines, apart from the obvious factors already pointed out about the engineering and development and manufacture of new lines. Cortland didn’t just find a material used to keep ladies knickers up and repackage it as an expensive fly line.

My article on how easy it is to put some PVC plastic on a string apart from engineering which has been done years ago and paid for ten thousand times over, machinery that hasn’t changed in fifty years in making the web core and the automated ejection dies that cost a dime a dozen, is long ago paid for. It is just the change of plastic advances.  Cortland or S.Anglers all buy the plastics by the thousand pound box lots and it’s cheap.  The cost of the plastic coating the fly line you’re using today is about a 1/20th of a cent worth, if that. I know what a fair price for a fly line is and you don’t Clark.  I’m telling you that you can make it sound extravagant but it isn’t.  The art work on a fly line box is more extravagant than the line, believe that.  My point is simple.  Fly lines are over priced. George Gehrke The exchange rate where you are is indeed just numbers.  You have the same buying power and that is not America’s fault now, is it?  How much money is good wages per hour there?  A hundred dollars an hour or three dollars an hour?

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Rusty?  I did an extensive article with drawings on how fly lines are made. The engineering has been paid for long ago and that deals with line tapers mainly.  What does change are coatings and finishes.  That is all. The process is so simple as to boggle the mind and the cost of making a fly line is indeed one of the lowest in American Manufacturing in the industry. This is why one can readily appreciate HOW a company like Cortland can afford full page ads in magazines.  The profit margin is so vast as to be literally obnoxious and unfair.  Just like Frog Butt, the fly fishermen of America are NOT getting a square or honest deal when it comes to fly lines. No joke.  Fly lines from all the manufacturers are over priced.  I mean, WAY over priced! Consider this.  A Cortland 333 or 444 could be bought in Wal-Mart here in Lewiston Idaho just a week ago and  for several years for the low, Low, LOW price of only $11.57.  Would you like to hear the rest of the story? The new (and I wonder about this term as a hype bite) 555 Cortland costs no more to make than any other Cortland Fly Line.  If they cost more, okay; I’ll let you increase that factor about what this article is worth.  How about .02 Cents? George Gehrke Each of these fly lines all cast the same, believe it or not.  It’s nothing to get excited about.  Fly lines are expendable and as far as I’m concerned, the 555 should sell for LESS THAN Twenty dollars per line. You know everyone?  I keep saying this time and time again.  The packaging costs more than what it takes to make a fly line and the labor required is not much at all, but for some odd reason this fact just doesn’t soak in. Fly line companies need to be boycotted if you want to get them back into the honesty game, like it or not.  Thing is, it’s all I mainly fish with is Cortland Fly Lines but I use only the fairly priced ones and always will. George Gehrke "Inside Trade Secrets"

"I assure everyone here, you can build the finest bamboo fly rod in the world for less then $50 – $65 dollars. " George Gehrke, 31 December 1998 Quoted _retail price_ on www.gink.com  = $1620 Profit = 1620 – 80  = $1540  (allowing for some inflation!) % Profit = almost 2000 %.  That’s quite some markup! Note: This is not the "special offer if you buy via the internet price", but the manufacturer’s suggested retail price for a Blonde model. If you want a Black Raven at MDRP of $3000, the markup is closer to 3650 %. It is up to the reader to decide whether these are the "finest bamboo" in the world. What should we think about such high markups? "The more commercial you become the lower the manufacturing costs UP to a CERTAIN point. Then things average out to around $49.95 each. THAT rod is now being sold for $2500! Which is such a con job as to require all of us to march upon Orvis and other Overpricing Fly Rod Manufacturers who are "Over-Charging" and we should slap them silly. " George Gehrke,  31 December 1998 What can we do but agree with this sage advice. The line forms on my right…

Response:

"Rapscallion"   YOU!  You chickenshit sonofabitch, who doesn’t have the balls to present your own real name dares to challenge me, the God and Ruler of Roff?  I’m George Gehrke, the one and only.  Who are you.  Nothing? George Gehrke "a somebody" And proud of it.

Where the fuck are those guys in white coats when you need them?

Response:

"Rapscallion"   YOU!  You chickenshit sonofabitch, who doesn’t have the balls to present your own real name dares to challenge me, the God and Ruler of Roff?  I’m George Gehrke, the one and only.  Who are you.  Nothing? George Gehrke "a somebody" And proud of it.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Actually, flyrods are more since that was quoted correctly.  Secondary part costs have increased dramatically since the Clinton defascoes and Greenspan screw ups with the economy. So until you give me a new figure let’s work with a  100% increase on costs over the past four years (although I can’t beleive it should be this high). That still implies a helathy profit of several 100%. You have not used the correct price at all.  Most of the fly rods are around $500 – $700. Check your own website. I clearly stated I was using the MSRP which is quoted at $1620 to $3000. This is the price you expect a retailer to charge for your rods. or did you post a hugely inflated MSRP in order to make your rods appear to be worth more tahn they really are. Surely that would be unethical…

Whoa, right here ass hole.  You don’t know for jack shit the quality of our fly rods.  Admit it!  Where is your source of knowledge derived from?? Other assholes? I’ll tell you what.  I dare you, if you wish to see a beautiful bamboo to order one and in your case you will pay in advance for a Bastard for a bastard.  I will defy you to  be able to find fault with it compared to any other bamboo fly rod in the world. Okay, you chicken shit son of a bitch.  What say you? George Gehrke bamboosan

Response:

For just about any manufactured goods, the cost of raw materials is minor compared to the costs incurred in research and development, manufacture, distribution, and promotion. Basing the "fair price" of a flyline on the cost of bulk PVC is about the same as saying that split-cane flyrods shouldn’t cost any more than 20 or 30 dollars because they are made of little more than bamboo, cork, steel, and nickel. Besides that, there is currently enough competition in the fly line market that I seriously doubt that an artificially high price would last for very long.

This is very true, but misleading and not entirely correct.  The general rule of thumb that I have found is that wholesale is roughly half of retail and wholesale is over two times the cost of production.  You are basically paying for the manufacturer to make a profit and then the retailer to make a profit.  My friend was signed up with several business that had guide programs and I got to see some of the price sheets for Orvis and others.  What was costing me $5 (brass beads), he was getting for $1.50 or so.  If you knew the mark up on stuff like hackle, fly rods, etc you would shit your pants, which wouldn’t be a problem if you were paying wholesale because you could afford a pair just to crap in.  The glasses I wanted that were $150, he could get for $45.  Unlike other industries, the mark ups on fly fishing gear is huge.  Those that are able to afford it do so.  Those that can’t afford it but still want it sacrifice and buy it anyways.  Those that can’t afford it buy something that is a good substitute but within their price range.  I think the fly fishing industry has basically nickled and dimed us over the years to find the upper limits of what we are willing to pay as consumers and have been very effective at doing so.  The few manufacturers that start off at discounted prices eventually join up with the rest and start charging the same as everyone else.  Look at rod prices for instance. — Warren change addy to yahoo for email Henry’s Fork Clave info and Bozeman, MT fishing info http://www.geocities.com/troutbum_mt3/HFclave.html

Response:

Actually, flyrods are more since that was quoted correctly.  Secondary part costs have increased dramatically since the Clinton defascoes and Greenspan screw ups with the economy. You have not used the correct price at all.  Most of the fly rods are around $500 – $700.  Just the ferrules which are all American Made  usually are nearly $200 worth.  That is not my idea of fair pricing either.  Then there are the Agate Guides, snake guides, reel seat, cork, labor. No, we don’t over charge but you sure do know how to blue sky and put things out of context.  As a Roffian, you fit right in. George Gehrke "bamboosan" http://www.gink.com George Gehrke "lowest priced bamboo fly rods regardless"

Response:

I know what a fair price for a fly line is and you don’t Clark.  I’m telling you that you can make it sound extravagant but it isn’t.  The art work on a fly line box is more extravagant than the line, believe that.  My point is simple.  Fly lines are over priced.

For just about any manufactured goods, the cost of raw materials is minor compared to the costs incurred in research and development, manufacture, distribution, and promotion. Basing the "fair price" of a flyline on the cost of bulk PVC is about the same as saying that split-cane flyrods shouldn’t cost any more than 20 or 30 dollars because they are made of little more than bamboo, cork, steel, and nickel. Besides that, there is currently enough competition in the fly line market that I seriously doubt that an artificially high price would last for very long. — Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyoming

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I know what a fair price for a fly line is and you don’t Clark.  I’m telling you that you can make it sound extravagant but it isn’t.  The art work on a fly line box is more extravagant than the line, believe that.  My point is simple.  Fly lines are over priced. For just about any manufactured goods, the cost of raw materials is minor compared to the costs incurred in research and development, manufacture, distribution, and promotion. Basing the "fair price" of a flyline on the cost of bulk PVC is about the same as saying that split-cane flyrods shouldn’t cost any more than 20 or 30 dollars because they are made of little more than bamboo, cork, steel, and nickel. Besides that, there is currently enough competition in the fly line market that I seriously doubt that an artificially high price would last for very long. — Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyoming

You make a compelling point and I bow to it. George

Response:

Any opinions on the best full sinking line for stillwater applications? steve haun sioux falls

Response:

Any opinions on the best full sinking line for stillwater applications?

Depends what you require of it. We do a lot of reservoir fishing from boats here in the U.K. We use everything from neutral density (barely breaks through the surface) through to some fairly scary high density fly lines (e.g. Airflo DI7 and DI8). Note that these last named are proper casting tapers, not just lengths of lead core trolling line. If I were to pick only one sinking line, I’d probably choose a 3M Scientific Anglers WetCel 1 intermediate – popularly known here by its colour: the ‘Kelly Green’. It’s a nice line to cast and generally useful. Tight Lines, Tony Deacon

Response:

Some people wonder why the hell little bottles of Floatant sell for $20 NZ here… Clark

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Bill?  I went to my favorite or nearest Fly Shop and looked at the Cortland 555 and for $60 Cortland isn’t offering much for something that only cost them .87 Cents to make.  Hell, the packaging cost more! I just wish there was more honesty in fly line pricing than what is taking place in America today.  These fly lines should not be retailing for any more than about $15 each and this is the truth… The 555 is a new line, and the people who developed it, advertise it, distribute it, etc, all need to get paid. If they sold for only $15, the engineers (and others) currently in the flyfishing industry would move on to greener pastures, or the companies would go out of business. Maybe both. With the kind of fishing I do, and the kind of budget I’m currently living with, the budget lines made by Cortland and SA suit me just fine. OTOH, it’s nice to know that they (and others) are constantly innovating. There is a price to pay for having the newest, slickest line, but judging by the sales of high-end fly tackle, there are plenty of customers who are willing to pay for it, just as there are plenty of others who are willing to stay with the older-generation lines in order to save money for other things. — Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyoming

Response:

Bill?  I went to my favorite or nearest Fly Shop and looked at the Cortland 555 and for $60 Cortland isn’t offering much for something that only cost them .87 Cents to make.  Hell, the packaging cost more! I just wish there was more honesty in fly line pricing than what is taking place in America today.  These fly lines should not be retailing for any more than about $15 each and this is the truth…

The 555 is a new line, and the people who developed it, advertise it, distribute it, etc, all need to get paid. If they sold for only $15, the engineers (and others) currently in the flyfishing industry would move on to greener pastures, or the companies would go out of business. Maybe both. With the kind of fishing I do, and the kind of budget I’m currently living with, the budget lines made by Cortland and SA suit me just fine. OTOH, it’s nice to know that they (and others) are constantly innovating. There is a price to pay for having the newest, slickest line, but judging by the sales of high-end fly tackle, there are plenty of customers who are willing to pay for it, just as there are plenty of others who are willing to stay with the older-generation lines in order to save money for other things. — Rusty Hook Laramie, Wyoming

Response:

Hi Steve, We sell most the full sinking weight forward slow sinking clear lines for a lakes. The Cortland "444 Clear Camo" is the most popular here in California, USA, planet earth. Years ago the WF6S type 2,  SA or Cortland was the most popular lake line. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any opinions on the best full sinking line for stillwater applications? steve haun sioux falls

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Bill?  I went to my favorite or nearest Fly Shop and looked at the Cortland 555 and for $60 Cortland isn’t offering much for something that only cost them .87 Cents to make.  Hell, the packaging cost more! I just wish there was more honesty in fly line pricing than what is taking place in America today.  These fly lines should not be retailing for any more than about $15 each and this is the truth. I walked into Lewiston’s Wal-Mart to buy some Cortland 444 fly lines for about the same low price of around $15 and this store said that Wal-Mart pulled not only the Cortland Fly Lines and ALL Fly Line brands but the leaders.  I no sooner got outside to my electronics center (Pick Up) and called 1-800-Wal-Mart and we had a serious discussion about this issue. Seems their light bulb may have come back on.  We will see. George

Response:

Question:

early June is prime but many lakes offer good fishing into the 1st half of July. Mid to late June into the 1st week of July is prime time for travelling sedges. The merrit area about 1 hour south west of Kamloops is also good and there is a very nice looking golf course just east of the town with a large modern resort. Salmon Lake, Glimpse, Peterhope, Plateau, the Lakes of the Douglas Lake Ranch and also Roche Lake and it’s many nearby lakes are all close by. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Prime time out of Kamloops for fly fishing is May/June as it is not very high elevation. July can be too late for the good fishing. For golf and fishing, I would pick a week in early June. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com What time of year? Can’t advise much on golf as I don’t. The Kamloops area is a good bet. My ex boss retired up there a few years back to engage his interest in both pursuits. It’s best known for it’s still water fishery with dozens of lakes within an hour or two’s drive. There is some fine stream fishing as well. Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

Great! Thanks much.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve golfed a lot in Kamloops and they have some real good courses. Dunes, Rivershore and one up on the plateau on the south side of #1 going east.  Forget the name but it’s a nice one as well.  Good fishing just south of Kamloops in the Logan lake area.  About 1 hour gets you to lots of fishing lakes. Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

Prime time out of Kamloops for fly fishing is May/June as it is not very high elevation. July can be too late for the good fishing. For golf and fishing, I would pick a week in early June. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What time of year? Can’t advise much on golf as I don’t. The Kamloops area is a good bet. My ex boss retired up there a few years back to engage his interest in both pursuits. It’s best known for it’s still water fishery with dozens of lakes within an hour or two’s drive. There is some fine stream fishing as well. Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

Thanks for the additional information. k

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Prime time out of Kamloops for fly fishing is May/June as it is not very high elevation. July can be too late for the good fishing. For golf and fishing, I would pick a week in early June. — Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento, CA, USA www.kiene.com What time of year? Can’t advise much on golf as I don’t. The Kamloops area is a good bet. My ex boss retired up there a few years back to engage his interest in both pursuits. It’s best known for it’s still water fishery with dozens of lakes within an hour or two’s drive. There is some fine stream fishing as well. Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

I’ve golfed a lot in Kamloops and they have some real good courses. Dunes, Rivershore and one up on the plateau on the south side of #1 going east.  Forget the name but it’s a nice one as well.  Good fishing just south of Kamloops in the Logan lake area.  About 1 hour gets you to lots of fishing lakes. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

What time of year? Can’t advise much on golf as I don’t. The Kamloops area is a good bet. My ex boss retired up there a few years back to engage his interest in both pursuits. It’s best known for it’s still water fishery with dozens of lakes within an hour or two’s drive. There is some fine stream fishing as well. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

We’re thinking June or July.  Will check out Kamloops. Thanks. karen

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What time of year? Can’t advise much on golf as I don’t. The Kamloops area is a good bet. My ex boss retired up there a few years back to engage his interest in both pursuits. It’s best known for it’s still water fishery with dozens of lakes within an hour or two’s drive. There is some fine stream fishing as well. Wanting to put together a fishing/golfing trip to BC. Any suggestions on an area we might find good prospects for both activities?

Response:

Question:

"A-Sad-Eye" wrote… Walt…how much would it take to open up a fly shop?….NC is the first place I have ever been that made me think twice about retiring in South America…

Did I read that right?? Norht Carolina = South America? That explains why I can’t understand anyone when I go through a drive-up window. <g John, it sounds like you’re in for a long month. –Steve

Response:

"A-Sad-Eye" wrote… NC is the first place I have ever been that made me think twice about retiring in South America… Did I read that right??

No. Try again and this time parse it like John already intends to retire near his wife’s home in South America. — Ken Fortenberry

Response:

Thanks for the analysis re these hazards to graphite rods.  Makes sense.  However, most non-purist ffers are not going to stop fishing nymphs, which have to be weighted by some method, whether beadheads, lead wrap, or split shot. To the extent possible we have to avoid banging our rod tip when casting, by refining or modifying our casting technique. Casting with a more open loop works for me. PatK – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hooks are bad enough on graphite tips but bead heads and lead weighted nymphs are worse.  As many of the modern gentry use space age gadgets to tie their flies with, they snap more and more graphite tips because the bead head flies smack at high velocity against the graphite rod tips nicking them.  Oh, they may not snap right away, or next week or the next day but they  will snap soon enough. Nicking graphite is exactly like scratching a pane of glass. Apply the pressure at just the right spot and the glass follows the scratch longitude.  The cross section loads on a tip that is only 3/32 more or less in diameter has Pound Per Inch loads on the cross section that can exceed 185,000 – 250,000 psi at any given time.  Put one imperfection into that circumference and you will have a fiber explosion that can sound like a small bolt of lightening when she pops!  Anyone that sends a graphite tip back to a manufacturer  that has snapped but who has fished Bead Heads with it, are not being fair to the companies that make them.  Frankly, I don’t think any Graphite Fly Rod Company today realizes this fact regarding why they are getting so many fly rods back with broken tips. Frankly, fly fishing to me means "All’s Fair With Fur or Feather," just as in upland hunting over a nice brace of Llewellyn Setters.  But it isn’t fair when fly fishermen are beating perfectly made fly rod tips with Brass, Metal or Lead Bead Heads other than normal hook hazards which is bad enough as it is, breaking them and then claiming foul. The extra glitter most get with bead heads is the same as fishing with pistol petes and calling it fly fishing, I suppose.  A little mix of the spinning world into fly fishing is the rogue these days and still claiming its fly fishing in the purist sense of the word. Well, it may be fly fishing but it isn’t pure to the traditions of old. It is compromises in order to take advantage using ingenious methods. The array of glittering materials have seen a huge explosion such as crystal hair, etc.  But Flashabou or Crystal Hair doesn’t smash against the rod tips like bird shot like items do, damaging the fly rods to certain ruin, sooner or later. I think it is only fair that we all consider being absolutely fair with fly rod companies turning out excellent products.  "Well, I slammed the car door on it and it broke," is the complaint and if the fly rod company doesn’t replace it for free . . . oh my! This is why I never use bead head flies and/or nymphs.  At least, not yet I haven’t.  It just doesn’t hold the magic for me as it does for others.  I guess it all depends upon which generation you learned to fly fish in. I have no regrets. Mr. G. http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

* 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:

Hooks are bad enough on graphite tips but bead heads and lead weighted nymphs are worse.  As many of the modern gentry use space age gadgets to tie their flies with, they snap more and more graphite tips because the bead head flies smack at high velocity against the graphite rod tips nicking them.  Oh, they may not snap right away, or next week or the next day but they  will snap soon enough. Nicking graphite is exactly like scratching a pane of glass.  Apply the pressure at just the right spot and the glass follows the scratch longitude.  The cross section loads on a tip that is only 3/32 more or less in diameter has Pound Per Inch loads on the cross section that can exceed 185,000 – 250,000 psi at any given time.  Put one imperfection into that circumference and you will have a fiber explosion that can sound like a small bolt of lightening when she pops!  Anyone that sends a graphite tip back to a manufacturer  that has snapped but who has fished Bead Heads with it, are not being fair to the companies that make them.  Frankly, I don’t think any Graphite Fly Rod Company today realizes this fact regarding why they are getting so many fly rods back with broken tips. Frankly, fly fishing to me means "All’s Fair With Fur or Feather," just as in upland hunting over a nice brace of Llewellyn Setters.  But it isn’t fair when fly fishermen are beating perfectly made fly rod tips with Brass, Metal or Lead Bead Heads other than normal hook hazards which is bad enough as it is, breaking them and then claiming foul. The extra glitter most get with bead heads is the same as fishing with pistol petes and calling it fly fishing, I suppose.  A little mix of the spinning world into fly fishing is the rogue these days and still claiming its fly fishing in the purist sense of the word. Well, it may be fly fishing but it isn’t pure to the traditions of old. It is compromises in order to take advantage using ingenious methods. The array of glittering materials have seen a huge explosion such as crystal hair, etc.  But Flashabou or Crystal Hair doesn’t smash against the rod tips like bird shot like items do, damaging the fly rods to certain ruin, sooner or later. I think it is only fair that we all consider being absolutely fair with fly rod companies turning out excellent products.  "Well, I slammed the car door on it and it broke," is the complaint and if the fly rod company doesn’t replace it for free . . . oh my!   This is why I never use bead head flies and/or nymphs.  At least, not yet I haven’t.  It just doesn’t hold the magic for me as it does for others.  I guess it all depends upon which generation you learned to fly fish in. I have no regrets. Mr. G. http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

Response:

The extra glitter most get with bead heads is the same as fishing with pistol petes and calling it fly fishing, I suppose.

It’s quite easy to get a little flash with other materials, as you pointed out.  I would guess that beadheads seem to catch more fish simply because it’s like a built in split shot – most people catch more fish simply because the nymph ends up deeper. Regards, Jeff

Response:

The extra glitter most get with bead heads is the same as fishing with pistol petes and calling it fly fishing, I suppose. It’s quite easy to get a little flash with other materials, as you pointed out.  I would guess that beadheads seem to catch more fish simply because it’s like a built in split shot – most people catch more fish simply because the nymph ends up deeper. Regards, Jeff

______  A spherical bead head always has a flash spot or bright spot on it.  A glint that attracts whenever it gets into sunlight.  Besides what you point out about getting nymphs down to xink to the bottom, there are other ways besides beads.   — Mr.G http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

Response:

Man I’ve got so much to say…… Opie…you’re good and I’m sorry to hear about Mom.  Wish her the best. I know how you care for her and have you seen Walt…how much would it take to open up a fly shop?….NC is the first place I have ever been that made me think twice about retiring in South America. But I almost blew it because Wayno…..I  could have used you in Chicago because the weather was rainy and it got real drunk out before I went into the Orvis shop and thought, I wish Wayne was here because… Wayne, even tho’ I hate brand name labels….Orvis does make some good shit and I’d buy one of everything if I could afford it, but I couldn’t and I didn’t and I really wish – Wofgang would have been there to drive me back to the hotel because I got really lost and at times found myself in the deepest darkest alleys but now I’m home and the wife left  to visit her folks for a month and although I have scoured this town , nowhere is to be found, Low Down Brown and I wish… Ken were here to recommend a substitute, because… Charlie, I’ve only my beer and I’m down to stems and seeds again, and I’m   – Daytripper just about every damn day until she gets back and although I want to head south I might not make it because the horror and agony of knowing that countless gazzillions of insects died because they couldn’t xink to the bottom ….. ……well…..never mind.  But if there is something to get a nymph…or wooly down to the bottom  in some of the places I fish…..bring a camera ’cause I will xuck your dick……. …a month she is going to be gone gentlemen.  A month. This could get ugly…… john – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The extra glitter most get with bead heads is the same as fishing with pistol petes and calling it fly fishing, I suppose. It’s quite easy to get a little flash with other materials, as you pointed out.  I would guess that beadheads seem to catch more fish simply because it’s like a built in split shot – most people catch more fish simply because the nymph ends up deeper. Regards, Jeff ______  A spherical bead head always has a flash spot or bright spot on it.  A glint that attracts whenever it gets into sunlight.  Besides what you point out about getting nymphs down to xink to the bottom, there are other ways besides beads. — Mr.G http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

Response:

Man I’ve got so much to say…… Wayno…..I  could have used you in Chicago because the weather was rainy and it got real drunk out before I went into the Orvis shop and thought, I wish Wayne was here because…

        well, john, i doubt i will be able to make the connection, but here’s a little help to put in your pocket when things get tough; just follow the bouncing ball:         then take me disappearin through the smoke rings of my mind,         down the foggy ruins of time, far past the frozen leaves,         the haunted, frightened trees, out to the windy beach,         far from the twisted reach of crazy sorrow.         yes, to dance beneath the diamond sky with one hand waving free,         silhouetted by the sea, circled by the circus sands,             with all memory and fate driven deep beneath the waves,         let me forget about today until tomorrow.                 b. dylan  (but you knew that) your friend in the old north state wayno

Response:

…I don’t know Mr. G., but in my book an unconditional warranty on a rod is just that. ..and if we all want to be purists, wouldn’t we be using bamboo and braided hair lines?     I think you might be right though when you suggest that a definition of fly fishing might depend upon which generation you learned to fish in. Or, more than it being something to do with different generations, it could be that how you are introduced to fly fishing plays a larger part in shaping definitions. After all,the generation gap is a lot more narrow than we sometimes can recognize (lord knows, my once incredibly dense father keeps getting smarter and smarter the older I get).   In my case, no one I ever grew up with threw a fly; a casting book by Joan Wulff was my introduction. So I’ve never really had anyone tell me that "x" is fly fishing and "y" is not. My feeling is that if it’s an artificial lure and If I can cast it, then the fish and the trees should best beware.     …thanks for the great post, you got me thinking about my Pops.. and on fathers day at that. Later, Patrick

Response:

I like that! — Opie  –Planning for the Past– – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …I don’t know Mr. G., but in my book an unconditional warranty on a rod is just that. ..and if we all want to be purists, wouldn’t we be using bamboo and braided hair lines?     I think you might be right though when you suggest that a definition of fly fishing might depend upon which generation you learned to fish in. Or, more than it being something to do with different generations, it could be that how you are introduced to fly fishing plays a larger part in shaping definitions. After all,the generation gap is a lot more narrow than we sometimes can recognize (lord knows, my once incredibly dense father keeps getting smarter and smarter the older I get).   In my case, no one I ever grew up with threw a fly; a casting book by Joan Wulff was my introduction. So I’ve never really had anyone tell me that "x" is fly fishing and "y" is not. My feeling is that if it’s an artificial lure and If I can cast it, then the fish and the trees should best beware.     …thanks for the great post, you got me thinking about my Pops.. and on fathers day at that. Later, Patrick

Response:

…I don’t know Mr. G., but in my book an unconditional warranty on a rod is just that. ..and if we all want to be purists, wouldn’t we be using bamboo and braided hair lines?

purist because the term purist has not been defined except in the loosest sense.  I said, I was glad I learned to fly fish in my generation.  That in itself is definition enough.  I see you confirm that below.  Thank you for your thoughts and input.  There is a big difference between fly fishing and jig fishing with plastic worm these days.     I think you might be right though when you suggest that a definition of fly fishing might depend upon which generation you learned to fish in. Or, more than it being something to do with different generations, it could be that how you are introduced to fly fishing plays a larger part in shaping definitions. After all,the generation gap is a lot more narrow than we sometimes can recognize (lord knows, my once incredibly dense father keeps getting smarter and smarter the older I get).   In my case, no one I ever grew up with threw a fly; a casting book by Joan Wulff was my introduction. So I’ve never really had anyone tell me that "x" is fly fishing and "y" is not. My feeling is that if it’s an artificial lure and If I can cast it, then the fish and the trees should best beware.     …thanks for the great post, you got me thinking about my Pops.. and on fathers day at that. Later, Patrick

– Mr.G http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

Response:

If this is just the beginnings of *could get bad,* I fear the future! — Opie  –Planning for the Past–

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Man I’ve got so much to say…… Opie…you’re good and I’m sorry to hear about Mom.  Wish her the best. I know how you care for her and have you seen Walt…how much would it take to open up a fly shop?….NC is the first place I have ever been that made me think twice about retiring in South America. But I almost blew it because Wayno…..I  could have used you in Chicago because the weather was rainy and it got real drunk out before I went into the Orvis shop and thought, I wish Wayne was here because… Wayne, even tho’ I hate brand name labels….Orvis does make some good shit and I’d buy one of everything if I could afford it, but I couldn’t and I didn’t and I really wish – Wofgang would have been there to drive me back to the hotel because I got really lost and at times found myself in the deepest darkest alleys but now I’m home and the wife left  to visit her folks for a month and although I have scoured this town , nowhere is to be found, Low Down Brown and I wish… Ken were here to recommend a substitute, because… Charlie, I’ve only my beer and I’m down to stems and seeds again, and I’m   – Daytripper just about every damn day until she gets back and although I want to head south I might not make it because the horror and agony of knowing that countless gazzillions of insects died because they couldn’t xink to the bottom ….. ……well…..never mind.  But if there is something to get a nymph…or wooly down to the bottom  in some of the places I fish…..bring a camera ’cause I will xuck your dick……. …a month she is going to be gone gentlemen.  A month. This could get ugly…… john The extra glitter most get with bead heads is the same as fishing with pistol petes and calling it fly fishing, I suppose. It’s quite easy to get a little flash with other materials, as you pointed out.  I would guess that beadheads seem to catch more fish simply because it’s like a built in split shot – most people catch more fish simply because the nymph ends up deeper. Regards, Jeff ______  A spherical bead head always has a flash spot or bright spot on it.  A glint that attracts whenever it gets into sunlight.  Besides what you point out about getting nymphs down to xink to the bottom, there are other ways besides beads. — Mr.G http://www.gink.com/shopcart/index.html

Response:

Question:

Hi! I’m new to this newsgroup, and was wondering if anyone on here regularly fishes in Pennsylvania, specifically southwest/southcentral.  I’m from the Pittsburgh area, and do most of my flyfishing at Dunbar Creek and Laurel Hill Creek in Fayette Co., and Little Mahoning Creek in Indiana Co. (I believe). Just hoping I could find someone to BS with. Nicole

Response:

Hi! I’m new to this newsgroup, and was wondering if anyone on here regularly fishes in Pennsylvania, specifically southwest/southcentral.  I’m from the Pittsburgh area, and do most of my flyfishing at Dunbar Creek and Laurel Hill Creek in Fayette Co., and Little Mahoning Creek in Indiana Co. (I believe). Just hoping I could find someone to BS with.

Nicole – sorry, I’m a bit west and north of you – Centre County (State College), but come on up some time for some real fishing Mark Faulkner

Response:

Hi Nicole:     I’m in the same area, and based on your email probably work in the same general vicinity as you.  Fish Lyolhanna near Ligoner a good deal and like Slippery Rock near Portersville, both are within an hour of downtown Pgh. Drop a note or what ever. M. Sendek – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi! I’m new to this newsgroup, and was wondering if anyone on here regularly fishes in Pennsylvania, specifically southwest/southcentral.  I’m from the Pittsburgh area, and do most of my flyfishing at Dunbar Creek and Laurel Hill Creek in Fayette Co., and Little Mahoning Creek in Indiana Co. (I believe). Just hoping I could find someone to BS with. Nicole

Response:

Question:

We have set up a free site where flyfishermen can find other flyfishermen who have services to offer (Financial Planners, Business Consultants, Landscapers, etc.). We also offer links to sites we like as well as reviews of products or destinations we enjoy. Fly Shops can list free if they offer discounts to our viewers. We will accept products or invitations to destinations but will only offer reviews if we like them. Stop by and take a look. http://www.outofchaos.com/flyfishing.html Tight Lines, Dave Fischbach Charlie Levin

Response:

  I have a web site that may be of interest to some guys out there.  I am selling off part of my flyshop to anyone of interest.  There are good opportunities to not only let you buy at cost but also for any entrepeneures to make a few bucks on their investment too.  If this is something that will work for your site let me know .  We could make return links and also probably do a posting on your site. e-mail address.                                  Thank You,                                                  Bret

Response:

Question:

Has anyone had any experience fishing in the Caymans or Cozumel? I’ll be there this Xmas and would like to do a little bit of fishing.  I heard there are bonefish and tarpon opportunities. Thanks for your help. Bill

Response:

I was in Grand Cayman last Feb. You are probably staying on 7 mile beach. If so, go north and find Papagallo Restaurant. It, by the way, is the only really fine restaurant we found on the island if you’re into that. Keep going past the place and suddenly you’er in bush on rough dirt roads. There are tons of canals that were dug to keep mosquitos down. There are supposed to be small tarpon  in them and if the lake at the reastaurant is any indication they are there. Whats even prettier is the shore along the north in this neighborhood. There is a reef way off with breakers and very large expansive flats and NO CROWDS at all which is very welcome from the 7 mile beach scene. It gets you into the island thing "Mon" and the fly fishing thing all very quickly ( and close to the hotels) and is really beautiful. When you get to the end of the first road past the restaurant go left to get to the shore here. Anothyer place thats even easier and very pretty, but not as wildernessesque, is to go through and south of Georgetown and take the road that goes along the south shore. There are a few parking areas where you can walk 30 feet to the flats and its gorgeus. The areas I found are after the road turns east, about 10 minutes after you have passed where the cruise ships dock. Check out the guy who is the doctor of the black coral clinic you pass on your way. Neat fellow with great prices on stuff he carves himself. I found grand cayman to be very civilized and without these fishing excursions, would have hated it. They balanced it perfectly. Its not a breathtaking place like the Virgin islands, but now you know where to find really inspiring places. Have a good time. Clair

Response:

Has anyone had any experience fishing in the Caymans or Cozumel? I’ll be there this Xmas and would like to do a little bit of fishing.  I heard there are bonefish and tarpon opportunities. Thanks for your help. Bill

You can catch bonefish on Cozumel anytime. There are some real good guides that can take you out to the remote north end of the island. I have fished with Victor, Papo, Enrica(sp) and Alex. You can stay at the Southern Cross Club on Little Cayman Island. They have bonefish and small land-locked tarpon. A 9′#8,  3 or 4 piece outfit is the most popular size for light salt water travel. It is a good size for most fish to 30#. I use a Mastery Bonefish floating line because it is stiffer and works better out of a boat. Take a varity of bonefish flies and some 2/0 streamers. I always take a few poppers. Polarized glasses and a hat are needed. If you have any questions you can e.mail or call me, 800/4000FLY (USA). William Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA

Response:

Was in Cayman Brac in 94 and stayed at Brac Reef. Main purpose was diving however, righty there in front of the hotel was a wadeable rip where one could cast to Tarpon, Lemon sharks and Barracuda ! In addition, Little Cayman was a short boat ride away and offered large Tarpon and Bonefish. — "The true Angler is content to fish alone" Brian Di Carlo

Response:

Question:

Any ideas on shad fishing in the Columiba River would be appreciated. Thanks! K Lawson

Response:

Any ideas on shad fishing in the Columiba River would be appreciated. Thanks! K Lawson

My father in law uses a white jig or maybe its a small white fly.  I didn’t go and it was 5 years ago or so when he told me.  He fishes by McNary dam I think it is, downstream of the dam. Nice size fish I saw them, but I personally haven’t fished for shad. Tight lines.

Response:

Question:

Fished with Capt. Ron Rebeck of Backcountry Charters in Florida. Ron holds the 1994 world record Ladyfish title on fly. We caught literally a hundred or more Ladyfish, Reds, and Large Jacks. We weighed several of "my" Ladyfish for possible titles. Many fish "just" short. What a thrill. All on fly. They have a toll free no. 1-800-932-REEL(9335). This guy is the best guide I have ever fished with. Hope you try him out…enjoy!

Response:

Fished with Capt. Ron Rebeck of Backcountry Charters in Florida. Ron holds the 1994 world record Ladyfish title on fly. We caught literally a hundred or more Ladyfish, Reds, and Large Jacks. We weighed several of "my" Ladyfish for possible titles. Many fish "just" short. What a thrill. All on fly. They have a toll free no. 1-800-932-REEL(9335). This guy is the best guide I have ever fished with. Hope you try him out…enjoy!

Where were you fishing out of and how big is this world record ladyfish.  I lived and fished in SW Florida for quite a few years and always enjoyed catching ladyfish.  They fight as spectacularly as most anything. tight lines

Response:

Question:

If your going to fish Crowley in a tube, it would be criminal not to fish the Green Banks area.  Although at times it seems that you could walk bank to bank on the ‘tubers without getting you feet wet, this is a hot area of the lake.  Since the access roads are all unmaked dirt roads, you need to get directions from one of the local sproting goods stores.  I can get there but I can’t tell you how to get there. I have fished this area effectively using a sink tip line with an olive damsel fly nymph and olive woolybuggers in late June and July.  A word of warning, when the wind kicks up get off the lake.  It can be brutal. Good Luck, Dctr Trout

Response:

Where is Crowley Lake?

Response:

Where is Crowley Lake?

Crowley Lake is in Mono County, California. It is about a ten minute drive from the Mammoth Lakes Resort area. If you find Reno, Nevada on the map, follow Hwy 395 South-East approximately 180 miles.

Response:

Have you tried Tim Alper’s lunker pond yet?  His designer Rainbow’s are big.

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I am looking for some advice on fishing Crowley Lake from a float tube.   I have fished the surrounding area (Hot Creek, Mammoth Lakes, Rush Creek, etc.), but I have always hesitated to fish Crowley because I hear you need a float tube to fish it right.  Well, now I have the tube and would love to get some tips on catching the Browns and Rainbows that everyone rants and raves about. I am planning trips in the Spring, Summer, and Fall.  I know the Olive Matuka is a famous Crowley fly, but maybe there are others???  Also, I will be looking the ‘tote the tube’ to any promising lakes within a day hike. Thanks in advance for any help, Matt Riley

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I am looking for some advice on fishing Crowley Lake from a float tube…

I have tried tubing Crowley near the marina and also off of Benton Crossing Road.  Haven’t hooked any of the big trout but was pretty amazed at the thick soup of hatching bugs – no wonder the trout grow. One trip we hit into a school of Sacramento Perch.  Locals said they were the best eating fish of all; we were camping so we kept quite a few (no limit) and filleted them and fried them up in a beer/bisquick batter and I wholeheartedly agree. Delicious! Before we cooked them a trout purist friend of a friend was pouting because we hadn’t caught trout, said he didn’t want any, then later, OK well lemme try a little bit, then another and he ended up eating about ten of them himself. There are lots of other lakes worth tubing, up any of the roads that go west from 395 in the Bishop area.  Last year a writer to this list caught 6 and 10 lb. brown trout on dry flies at North lake. I think especially with all the water, this year should be good for the east side sierra lakes. I like this area as much for the scenery, and when the mountains still have snow on the it is best. mark Vinsel Visit my gallery: http://www.lanminds.com/local/vinnie/gallery.HTML

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