Question:

Not wishing to be a spoilsport or anything, and no offence to Sandy, but she is not the only lady posting. Cyli keeps getting forgotten it seems. She posts regularly.

I didn’t know I had an angling sister on this ng!  Cool!  Thanks for saying so, Mike. Sandy

Response:

the *one* fine *lady*–quite serious–that graces this NG!

Now, Opie, you don’t want to leave Sandy out, do you? — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

My most sincere apologies!  I had no idea?  I never considered?  Oh hell, before I get into any deeper shit.  Sorry, Cyli. Cyberspace can be so….um…damn….confusin’ sometimes! Actually, the waters have been nice and cool of late. Opie –the quite embarrassed–

‘Sokay.  I took it in good humour.  And responded in a way I hope is also taken as good humour. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

Not wishing to be a spoilsport or anything, and no offence to Sandy, but she is not the only lady posting. Cyli keeps getting forgotten it seems. She posts regularly. I didn’t know I had an angling sister on this ng!  Cool!  Thanks for saying so, Mike. Sandy

My alias doesn’t seem to lend itself to thoughts of femaleness. Though the vixen part my sig file would be a clue to those who know something about wildlife. If my sig file still shows up. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

My alias doesn’t seem to lend itself to thoughts of femaleness. Though the vixen part my sig file would be a clue to those who know something about wildlife. If my sig file still shows up. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless

Sorry cyli, or vixen??  Guess it’s just because I don’t know what the rbc: stands for, so I wasn’t clear on what the word vixen was referring to.  And that, followed by Fairly harmless.  What would you have us call you? BTW — I checked out your link, and am very impressed by the emotional impact of your artwork!  Are those all pastels?  Are you still painting nowadays? Sandy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My alias doesn’t seem to lend itself to thoughts of femaleness. Though the vixen part my sig file would be a clue to those who know something about wildlife. If my sig file still shows up. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless Sorry cyli, or vixen??  Guess it’s just because I don’t know what the rbc: stands for, so I wasn’t clear on what the word vixen was referring to.  And that, followed by Fairly harmless.  What would you have us call you? BTW — I checked out your link, and am very impressed by the emotional impact of your artwork!  Are those all pastels?  Are you still painting nowadays? Sandy

That’s impressive stuff – some of it reminds me of photos of Jupiter’s Red Spot – the word ‘fluid’ just doesn’t do it justice.  BTW, up here, rbc stands for Royal Bank of Canada – somehow, I don’t think that’s what you had intended.  <G (Soon to be coming to a bank near you.) Someone with an artistic mind would see fishing differently than would one (like me) who goes through life with a cold blooded, linear, analytical approach.  You should share your insights sometime – don’t be worried about your newbie fly fishing status – we were all there at some point in our lives.  A unique viewpoint would be very refreshing. Peter Visit The Streamer Page at http://members.home.net/pcharles/streamers/index.html

Response:

I’m afraid that I was also the victim of ignorance in this case.  I figured that rbc:  vixen was some sort of computer code, known only to those adept in such fields.  I am glad to know, now, that there are *at least* two fine ladies that frequent ROFF! Op

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My alias doesn’t seem to lend itself to thoughts of femaleness. Though the vixen part my sig file would be a clue to those who know something about wildlife. If my sig file still shows up. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless Sorry cyli, or vixen??  Guess it’s just because I don’t know what the rbc: stands for, so I wasn’t clear on what the word vixen was referring to. And that, followed by Fairly harmless.  What would you have us call you? BTW — I checked out your link, and am very impressed by the emotional impact of your artwork!  Are those all pastels?  Are you still painting nowadays? Sandy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My alias doesn’t seem to lend itself to thoughts of femaleness. Though the vixen part my sig file would be a clue to those who know something about wildlife. If my sig file still shows up. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless Sorry cyli, or vixen??  Guess it’s just because I don’t know what the rbc: stands for, so I wasn’t clear on what the word vixen was referring to.  And that, followed by Fairly harmless.  What would you have us call you? BTW — I checked out your link, and am very impressed by the emotional impact of your artwork!  Are those all pastels?  Are you still painting nowadays?

Oh, it’s a rec.backcounty joke.  Many have animal callings over there and one day the net.ranger challenged me to name my animal.  I was feeling cute, fleet, and snappish.  The rbc stands for recbackcountry. Cyli is just fine.  It’s pronounced ’silly.’  I found I was becoming way too serious.  It’s been one heck of a job training all the people I work with to use my alias (there’s another person with the same real life first name as mine working near me.).  Takes about a week of my not answering to my real name.  As half the people (including two of the bosses) knew me for years on local BBSes by Cyli and called me by it (especially as one of the bosses married a woman of the same first name).  It’s a very relaxed place, as long as we get the work done.  I do recognize vixen, but only in text, I’d not respond to it in person. Thanks for the compliments on my art.  It’s all done in binary, but with imitations of real artists tools.  Not  with programming or the kind of image stuff that Web artists and advertising for magazines use (not that there’s anything wrong with either.  But I don’t have the tools or the inclination for it.).  I used Painter II and Corel PhotoPaint 3  to do them.  Mostly I used the oil paint and water colour tools.  One of the advantages of binary is that you can use water colour over or under oil. And clean up and set up are as simple as one or two clicks.  Nonetheless, they still take the same number of hours to do that they would in ‘real’ art. I’ve not done much recently.  I have some that I really should finish (where I do use usual Web style tools) by putting frames around them and so forth and put up as another page.  But my job and something about my mother’s death (even though it was 3 years ago) put me into stop mode on creating.  I expect to get back to it within a couple more years. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

That’s impressive stuff – some of it reminds me of photos of Jupiter’s Red Spot – the word ‘fluid’ just doesn’t do it justice.  BTW, up here, rbc stands for Royal Bank of Canada – somehow, I don’t think that’s what you had intended.  <G (Soon to be coming to a bank near you.) Someone with an artistic mind would see fishing differently than would one (like me) who goes through life with a cold blooded, linear, analytical approach.  You should share your insights sometime – don’t be worried about your newbie fly fishing status – we were all there at some point in our lives.  A unique viewpoint would be very refreshing.

Thanks.  Fluid is pretty much what I aim for, as I sort of  paint emotions, which are always at least a little fluid.  No, not bank. Though I suspect I’d like to have a share of their vaults. I don’t know if I see fishing differently.  Maybe.  The beauty of a stringer of browns that I saw a year ago, lying on green weeds next to the stream may have stayed with me a bit longer than it would have with most.   Especially as they weren’t my browns.  I’m also pretty big on large trees that have been dead long enough for the bark to be gone.  I can sit on one and contemplate the far end of it very happily for some time.  Or sit on a stream bank and look at one that’s lying partly in and partly out of the stream.  They have interesting patterns and shapes and, like clouds, can form pictures in the mind. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

I’m afraid that I was also the victim of ignorance in this case.  I figured that rbc:  vixen was some sort of computer code, known only to those adept in such fields.  

As explained above, it almost sort of maybe is… I am glad to know, now, that there are *at least* two fine ladies that frequent ROFF! Op

Thank you sir.  And probably wise of you to assume there might be lurkers of female status.  Who knows what / who lurkers may be. — rbc:  vixen    Fairly harmless remove invalid or hit reply to email. Though I’m very slow to respond. http://www.visi.com/~cyli

Response:

Thanks for the compliments on my art.  It’s all done in binary, but with imitations of real artists tools.

Outstanding!! I’ve not done much recently.  I have some that I really should finish (where I do use usual Web style tools) by putting frames around them and so forth and put up as another page.  But my job and something about my mother’s death (even though it was 3 years ago) put me into stop mode on creating.  I expect to get back to it within a couple more years.

Let us know when you update your site.  I’m anxious to see more.  :^) Sandy

Response:

Brian don’t mind these freshmen!  One is from Montana and the other couldn’t find a stream in his own backyard. Are you a resident of NC?  If so, pick-up a Delorme’s map for NC.  I the front section you will find a list off NC trout streams with locations. If you hang out here long enough, you will inevitably end up fishin’ with myself or one of the many other ROFFians from NC, as long as you don’t insult the *one* fine *lady*–quite serious–that graces this NG!

Not wishing to be a spoilsport or anything, and no offence to Sandy, but she is not the only lady posting. Cyli keeps getting forgotten it seems. She posts regularly. If you are from outta state, let me know when you plan to visit and I will be happy to guide you to some fine steams in my area.  Free of charge of course!

That explains how you keep getting into hot water! TL MC

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Only on e-Bay! Op

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I will be happy to guide you to some fine steams in my area.  Free of charge of course! Do you sell bass bugs, too? <g — Charlie…

Response:

My most sincere apologies!  I had no idea?  I never considered?  Oh hell, before I get into any deeper shit.  Sorry, Cyli. Cyberspace can be so….um…damn….confusin’ sometimes! Actually, the waters have been nice and cool of late. Opie –the quite embarrassed–

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Brian don’t mind these freshmen!  One is from Montana and the other couldn’t find a stream in his own backyard. Are you a resident of NC?  If so, pick-up a Delorme’s map for NC.  I the front section you will find a list off NC trout streams with locations. If you hang out here long enough, you will inevitably end up fishin’ with myself or one of the many other ROFFians from NC, as long as you don’t insult the *one* fine *lady*–quite serious–that graces this NG! Not wishing to be a spoilsport or anything, and no offence to Sandy, but she is not the only lady posting. Cyli keeps getting forgotten it seems. She posts regularly. If you are from outta state, let me know when you plan to visit and I will be happy to guide you to some fine steams in my area.  Free of charge of course! That explains how you keep getting into hot water! TL MC

Response:

I will be happy to guide you to some fine steams in my area.  Free of charge of course!

Do you sell bass bugs, too? <g — Charlie…

Response:

http//:www.wnctrout.com for good nc info…. –waldo If there are any NC resident, I would like to hear there suggestions for Good NC Streams. Thanks…

– Wilson Creek Outfitters, Ezflyfish.com, Inc. 115 East Union Street; Morganton, NC 28655 http://www.ezflyfish.com

Response:

man, North Carolina has been fished out for years….. john

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If there are any NC resident, I would like to hear there suggestions for Good NC Streams. Thanks…

Response:

If there are any NC resident, I would like to hear there suggestions for Good NC Streams. Thanks…

Response:

  If there are any NC resident, I would like to hear there suggestions for Good NC Streams. Thanks…

First, tell us all about your home waters.  Where are the best places to fish, what flies do we use, when are the best hatches, when is the best time of year to fish, etc so we can add it to our dossier of places to fish so that we may have the info for future querries. Thanks in advance. Warren (Hopefully one of them NC boys will take pity on you and drop you a line via email with some suggestions.  If not, do a deja.com search under NC and get all the info they let slip:-)

Response:

If there are any NC resident, I would like to hear there suggestions for Good NC Streams. Thanks…

We try to keep these smaller streams out of the headlines.  Drop me an email and I’ll tell you where I don’t catch any fish – at least you can cross those off your list

Response:

Brian don’t mind these freshmen!  One is from Montana and the other couldn’t find a stream in his own backyard. Are you a resident of NC?  If so, pick-up a Delorme’s map for NC.  I the front section you will find a list off NC trout streams with locations.  If you hang out here long enough, you will inevitably end up fishin’ with myself or one of the many other ROFFians from NC, as long as you don’t insult the *one* fine *lady*–quite serious–that graces this NG! If you are from outta state, let me know when you plan to visit and I will be happy to guide you to some fine steams in my area.  Free of charge of course! Opie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If there are any NC resident, I would like to hear there suggestions for Good NC Streams. Thanks…

Response:

Question:

I didn’t see your original post so I don’tknow what your original questions were but I am pretty sure I can help you. — Capt Gordon Churchill http://www.flyfish-nc.com Guided flyfishing on the Roanoke River and the Crystal Coast of NC out of Atlantic Beach/Morhead City/Beaufort.

Response:

THanks for the reply. My wife and I are coming to Harkers Island in late October for 2 days of Albie fishing with Sarah Gardner. We plan to come a day early and spend a day seeing the sights, fishing from shore, visiting tackle shops, etc. My question was asking about places to fish, sights to see, and generally what to do in the area. We have a 4×4. Any info will be terrific! Peter G. Aitken I didn’t see your original post so I don’tknow what your original questions were but I am pretty sure I can help you. — Capt Gordon Churchill http://www.flyfish-nc.com Guided flyfishing on the Roanoke River and the Crystal Coast of NC out of

Atlantic Beach/Morhead City/Beaufort.

Response:

Thanks so much, Tony. We are heading down on Oct 23 so we still have time to plan. Any other info you can send will be terrific. Peter

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Peter, I go to Harker’s Island every November for the ‘albert fishing and can offer some suggestions. 1. Places to eat: I always try the locally owned establishments. The Crab’s Claw and Sanitary Fish Market immediately come to mind. 2. All of the Core Banks is open to 4 wheel drive traffic, though you will have take one of the private commerical ferries over. I believe it cost me $120 for the vehicle and 2 people (round trip). Also there are a couple of services that will take you via boat to Core Banks (and I believe Shackleford Banks, wild horses on this one), for a small fee, maybe $25 or so. I know that one operates out of Harkers Island Marina.  This would allow you to walk the beaches, fish and  then be picked up in the afternoon. And I think the Park Service may operate one as well. I would also suggest you contact the guide or charter service you will be using, I’m sure they can provide you all of the information you need. I may be able to locate some of the info I originally dug up a few years ago when I started going there, if so I’ll let you know. Tony Minnick

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My wife and I will be doing a couple of days of charter fishing at Harker’s Island in late October. We have never been there and have some questions. 1. Recommendations on places to stay – or to avoid. 2. Restaurants. 3. We are considering going a day early to see the sights and do some from-the-shore fishing. What possibilities exist for this kind of fishing (either fly or surf casting)? Are there beaches that are open to trucks? Any and all information welcomed. THanks, Peter G. Aitken

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Check with Gordon Churchill at  http://www.flyfish-nc.com. Tom — Tom Brown Wake Forest, NC When trouble arises and things look bad, there is always one individual who perceives a solution and is willing to take command.  Very often, that person is crazy.                                    …..Dave Barry – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My wife and I will be doing a couple of days of charter fishing at Harker’s Island in late October. We have never been there and have some questions. 1. Recommendations on places to stay – or to avoid. 2. Restaurants. 3. We are considering going a day early to see the sights and do some from-the-shore fishing. What possibilities exist for this kind of fishing (either fly or surf casting)? Are there beaches that are open to trucks? Any and all information welcomed. THanks, Peter G. Aitken

Response:

Peter, I go to Harker’s Island every November for the ‘albert fishing and can offer some suggestions. 1. Places to eat: I always try the locally owned establishments. The Crab’s Claw and Sanitary Fish Market immediately come to mind. 2. All of the Core Banks is open to 4 wheel drive traffic, though you will have take one of the private commerical ferries over. I believe it cost me $120 for the vehicle and 2 people (round trip). Also there are a couple of services that will take you via boat to Core Banks (and I believe Shackleford Banks, wild horses on this one), for a small fee, maybe $25 or so. I know that one operates out of Harkers Island Marina.  This would allow you to walk the beaches,  fish and  then be picked up in the afternoon. And I think the Park Service may operate one as well. I would also suggest you contact the guide or charter service you will be using, I’m sure they can provide you all of the information you need. I may be able to locate some of the info I originally dug up a few years ago when I started going there, if so I’ll let you know. Tony Minnick

Response:

Question:

He’ll be learning in the warmwater venue.  Bluegills, sunfish, rock bass, etc.  I’m wondering if it would be easier to learn the "feel" of casting with the heavier rod, or if the heavier rod would be a setback for the little guy.  I know a buddy I converted to fly fishing prefered the feel of an 8 when learning to cast.  He said he couldn’t feel what was going on as well with a 5. Share your experience…. Bob Scott

Bob:   I would guess your buddy was bigger and stronger.  To an eight year old, I still think a typical eight weight would feel like a telephone pole, as another responder noted.   I liked the six, because the rod was light enough, but the line weight seemed to be enough to get them going.  I wouldn’t go longer than 8 ft., either.      Just read Mr. Popp’s post, and everything he said is very true and worth remembering.  Particularly the part about not bothering to bring a rod yourself for the first few times out, at least.  It removes temptation, and allows you to really focus on making sure the kid has the best time possible.  And, patience, patience, patience…… when he’s had enough by his standards – not yours, you fishing fool – call it a day and get some ice cream. Mark Faulkner

Response:

      The rod is not as important as patience as long as he can handle it. The first thing to do is get him interested in fishing and the best way to do that is for him to catch fish. Fly fishing is a bit much for an 8 year old but a zebco closed face spinning rod fishing a bober and worms is ideal. Kids learn quick but when the action slows they lose interest quickly too. Pick a place with plenty of bream, leave your rod at home (you will be too busy helping him to fish). Catch enough to fry up for one small meal and go home (during a lull in the bites).

Many people who have successfully taught children to fish find a reel is unnecessary and a confusing complication for small children.  Either a cane pole or a fly rod with a fixed length of line, say 15 ft., allows the child to fish bait to a depth of say 6 ft. without bothering about the reel, and to present a fly on or near the surface anywhere up to 20 ft. distance.  The child can then concentrate on presentation first, or hooking and playing afterward, without needing to think about letting out more line or winding it in. — |  Donald Phillipson, 4180 Boundary Road, Carlsbad Springs,  | |        Ontario, Canada, K0A 1K0, tel. 613 822 0734         |

Response:

Hi, I missed the first post, but I disagree a bit with some of the info in the follow up. I have been teaching kids fly-fishing for a lifetime, and I have tried many methods. the first thing i would mention is that I do agree with a 6 or 7 wgt rod (and line obviously, you HAVE to have a balanced outfit).On the other hand, make it an 8′6" or even 9′. I don’t know if you’ve ever tried an 8′ but there is a significant diffeence. As I’ve said before, the best rod set-up is one that can cat easily, and to me an 8′6" 6/7 wgt is perfect. I think the small kid, small rod thing is a carryover from shooting – start ‘em on a .20 gauge shotgu, yadda, yadda… I also agree with the thought that you not bring a rod the first times, and would add, take ‘em somewhere their bound to catch fish – any fish !! Last summer taught my 7 yr. old cousin, his first fly fish was a smallmouth bass, and he loved it !!! I have taught as young as 4 yr olds, so go for it, and have fun!!! Bill Bill Curry Tight Lines Guide Service Lockeport, Nova Scotia, Canada http://www.tightlines.ns.ca

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m setting up an outfit for my girlfriend’s 8-year-old son for Easter.  She said "Don’t buy a rod…"   –actually, she said ‘fly fishing pole’  – "my brother-in-law has one he doesn’t use.  He’s sending it up for Easter with his daughter when she visits.  He says it’s fiberglass, and about 6" taller than he is."    He’s about six feet. I got it today.  If it’s not a spinning rod, it’s a dead ringer.  It’s 6′6", with a 12"-long, fat, untapered cork grip, 1"-wide sliding blue-anodized rings, and conventional two-footed guides.  It’s labeled "CONOLON live fiber AIR FLITE 412,  NARMCO, INC,  COSTA MESA, CA"   I guess I better pick up something else. Anyway, at WalMart, they carry a Cortland 8′6" 6-weight IM6 rod for about $37.  They also have a cheaper "graphite composite" Garcia (I think) for about $22.  It’s an 8-weight.  I have an older St.Croix 8′6" fiberglass 8-weight I’d be willing to part with.   It seems like the lighter rod would be better for the little guy (He’s pretty small).   I’m a bachelor, and never taught a child that age to cast.  I’m very anxious to get him started. Should I buy the better rod for a child that age?  Or should I give him my old St.Croix?  What level or proficiency should I expect, or strive for? Please give me a little advice, Dads out there! — Bob Scott

       The rod is not as important as patience as long as he can handle it. The first thing to do is get him interested in fishing and the best way to do that is for him to catch fish. Fly fishing is a bit much for an 8 year old but a zebco closed face spinning rod fishing a bober and worms is ideal. Kids learn quick but when the action slows they lose interest quickly too. Pick a place with plenty of bream, leave your rod at home (you will be too busy helping him to fish). Catch enough to fry up for one small meal and go home (during a lull in the bites).         I’ve taught a son 3 daughters, and 4 grandsons to fish and am starting on a great grandson who is 2 1/2 his attention span has increased to 10 minutes none started on flys and the son and only one grandson are really interested in fly fishing that much so far.          Remember the important thing is he have fun, catch fish and learn the simple things in fishing. He can develope the rest as he gets older. Have Patient he’ll learn if it’s fun and not too complicated.                                                          John Popp                                                        in Sanford Fl.

Response:

Hi Robert, I started my son casting and fishing at age 8. I gave him a fiberglass 7 1/2′ rod for a 5 line. It worked great for him.  Graphite was not available at that time. I suggest an inexpensive, light rod. At 8, Those heavy 8 wt and above feel like swinging a telephone pole to a small kid. Spring is around the corner, be sure to find some spawn areas with Bluegill for him to catch. The best and sure way to give a kid a good time catching fish. Good Luck ! — William Endicott – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m setting up an outfit for my girlfriend’s 8-year-old son for Easter. She said "Don’t buy a rod…"   –actually, she said ‘fly fishing pole’ — "my brother-in-law has one he doesn’t use.  He’s sending it up for Easter with his daughter when she visits.  He says it’s fiberglass, and about 6" taller than he is."    He’s about six feet. I got it today.  If it’s not a spinning rod, it’s a dead ringer.  It’s 6′6", with a 12"-long, fat, untapered cork grip, 1"-wide sliding blue-anodized rings, and conventional two-footed guides.  It’s labeled "CONOLON live fiber AIR FLITE 412,  NARMCO, INC,  COSTA MESA, CA"   I guess I better pick up something else. Anyway, at WalMart, they carry a Cortland 8′6" 6-weight IM6 rod for about $37.  They also have a cheaper "graphite composite" Garcia (I think) for about $22.  It’s an 8-weight.  I have an older St.Croix 8′6" fiberglass 8-weight I’d be willing to part with.   It seems like the lighter rod would be better for the little guy (He’s pretty small).   I’m a bachelor, and never taught a child that age to cast.  I’m very anxious to get him started. Should I buy the better rod for a child that age?  Or should I give him my old St.Croix?  What level or proficiency should I expect, or strive for? Please give me a little advice, Dads out there! — Bob Scott

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –       The rod is not as important as patience as long as he can handle it. The first thing to do is get him interested in fishing and the best way to do that is for him to catch fish. Fly fishing is a bit much for an 8 year old but a zebco closed face spinning rod fishing a bober and worms is ideal. Kids learn quick but when the action slows they lose interest quickly too. Pick a place with plenty of bream, leave your rod at home (you will be too busy helping him to fish). Catch enough to fry up for one small meal and go home (during a lull in the bites).        I’ve taught a son 3 daughters, and 4 grandsons to fish and am starting on a great grandson who is 2 1/2 his attention span has increased to 10 minutes none started on flys and the son and only one grandson are really interested in fly fishing that much so far.         Remember the important thing is he have fun, catch fish and learn the simple things in fishing. He can develope the rest as he gets older. Have Patient he’ll learn if it’s fun and not too complicated.                                                         John Popp                                                       in Sanford Fl.

John,     This guy is ready to progress from the Zebco stage already.  He lives, eats and breathes fishing, and fly fishing is what he wants to learn.   I bought him a fly tying kit for Christmas… you should see him go at it! Some very interesting stuff comes off that vise!     We will definitely be starting out with the local bluegills… when the water temp gets out of the 40s.  I think I’ll buy him the nice, light Cortland IM6 rod.  He’s casted my soft Orvis 9′ 5-wt with my hand over his, but not alone.  That’s the extent of his experience so far.  This intense interest in fly fishing developed this winter.  I gave him a beginner’s book on fly fishing, and his Mom’s been reading it to him.  He told me he already knows how to cast; "From ten o’clock to noon!" he says.     Should be fun. Thanks everyone for the suggestions. Bob Scott

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I’m setting up an outfit for my girlfriend’s 8-year-old son for Easter.  She said "Don’t buy a rod…"   –actually, she said ‘fly fishing pole’  – "my brother-in-law has one he doesn’t use.  He’s sending it up for Easter with his daughter when she visits.  He says it’s fiberglass, and about 6" taller than he is."    He’s about six feet.

If he is 6 ft tall at 8 years old, Bob, you are in BIG trouble if he doesn’t take a shine to you by, say, age 12.  Accordingly, I would probably be looking at a Sage, Loomis, Winston, etc. Anyway, at WalMart, they carry a Cortland 8′6" 6-weight IM6 rod for about $37.  They also have a cheaper "graphite composite" Garcia (I think) for about $22.  It’s an 8-weight.  I have an older St.Croix 8′6" fiberglass 8-weight I’d be willing to part with.   It seems like the lighter rod would be better for the little guy (He’s pretty small).   I’m a bachelor, and never taught a child that age to cast.  I’m very anxious to get him started. Should I buy the better rod for a child that age?  Or should I give him my old St.Croix?  What level or proficiency should I expect, or strive for? Please give me a little advice, Dads out there! — Bob Scott

Seriously, having worked with a few kids (and my daughters) on introductions to fly casting, I would suggest the lighter rod (but not too light).  I have a 1970’s vintage 6′6" Eagle Claw fiberglass that was pretty good when they were 8-10 years old, and would gladly lend it to you if that was feasible.  But at 10 or so, I started them on an 8 ft six weight "old" graphite – actually, an Orvis purchased about 1979.  This turned out to be a very good rod for them to work with.  However, since I gather you do a lot of surf/ocean fishing, and all my experience in teaching is on Pennsylvania trout streams, none of this may be relevent. Mark Faulkner

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I’m setting up an outfit for my girlfriend’s 8-year-old son for Easter. She said "Don’t buy a rod…"   –actually, she said ‘fly fishing pole’ (  – "my brother-in-law has one he doesn’t use.  He’s sending it up for Easter with his daughter when she visits.  He says it’s fiberglass, and about 6" taller than he is."    He’s about six feet. If he is 6 ft tall at 8 years old, Bob, you are in BIG trouble if he doesn’t take a shine to you by, say, age 12.

No… I meant my girlfriends BROTHER-IN-LAW is 6-feet!   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Anyway, at WalMart, they carry a Cortland 8′6" 6-weight IM6 rod for about $37.  They also have a cheaper "graphite composite" Garcia (I think) for about $22.  It’s an 8-weight.  I have an older St.Croix 8′6" fiberglass 8-weight I’d be willing to part with.   It seems like the lighter rod would be better for the little guy (He’s pretty small).   I’m a bachelor, and never taught a child that age to cast.  I’m very anxious to get him started. Should I buy the better rod for a child that age?  Or should I give him my old St.Croix?  What level or proficiency should I expect, or strive for? Please give me a little advice, Dads out there! — Bob Scott Seriously, having worked with a few kids (and my daughters) on introductions to fly casting, I would suggest the lighter rod (but not too light).  I have a 1970’s vintage 6′6" Eagle Claw fiberglass that was pretty good when they were 8-10 years old, and would gladly lend it to you if that was feasible.  But at 10 or so, I started them on an 8 ft six weight "old" graphite – actually, an Orvis purchased about 1979.  This turned out to be a very good rod for them to work with.  However, since I gather you do a lot of surf/ocean fishing, and all my experience in teaching is on Pennsylvania trout streams, none of this may be relevent. Mark Faulkner

Mark,     He’ll be learning in the warmwater venue.  Bluegills, sunfish, rock bass, etc.  I’m wondering if it would be easier to learn the "feel" of casting with the heavier rod, or if the heavier rod would be a setback for the little guy.  I know a buddy I converted to fly fishing prefered the feel of an 8 when learning to cast.  He said he couldn’t feel what was going on as well with a 5. Share your experience…. Bob Scott

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I’m setting up an outfit for my girlfriend’s 8-year-old son for Easter.  She said "Don’t buy a rod…"   –actually, she said ‘fly fishing pole’  – "my brother-in-law has one he doesn’t use.  He’s sending it up for Easter with his daughter when she visits.  He says it’s fiberglass, and about 6" taller than he is."    He’s about six feet. I got it today.  If it’s not a spinning rod, it’s a dead ringer.  It’s 6′6", with a 12"-long, fat, untapered cork grip, 1"-wide sliding blue-anodized rings, and conventional two-footed guides.  It’s labeled "CONOLON live fiber AIR FLITE 412,  NARMCO, INC,  COSTA MESA, CA"   I guess I better pick up something else. Anyway, at WalMart, they carry a Cortland 8′6" 6-weight IM6 rod for about $37.  They also have a cheaper "graphite composite" Garcia (I think) for about $22.  It’s an 8-weight.  I have an older St.Croix 8′6" fiberglass 8-weight I’d be willing to part with.   It seems like the lighter rod would be better for the little guy (He’s pretty small).   I’m a bachelor, and never taught a child that age to cast.  I’m very anxious to get him started. Should I buy the better rod for a child that age?  Or should I give him my old St.Croix?  What level or proficiency should I expect, or strive for? Please give me a little advice, Dads out there! — Bob Scott

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Question:

I am new to flyfishing and heard through a local fly shop that a women’s organization is starting up in the Phoenix,AZ area.  I left my info w/ someone’s husband at the shop but haven’t heard anything. maybe someone out there knows who I can contact. My husband doesn’t really fly fish, but I expect I’ll have him converted soon.

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scribed: I am new to flyfishing and heard through a local fly shop that a women’s organization is starting up in the Phoenix,AZ area.  I left my info w/ someone’s husband at the shop but haven’t heard anything. maybe someone out there knows who I can contact. My husband doesn’t really fly fish, but I expect I’ll have him converted soon. Yes…you sound as if you will. Whether he wants it or not. – "It is seldom that liberty of any kind is lost all at once."                                                     -Hume

That is exactly my point: if he chooses not to convert from baitcasting, that’s fine, which is exactly why I’d like to follow up on this info.  If he chooses not to join me in my new found hobby, I would like to find a place where friendly FF information is available. I’d like to think that once he sees how much fun it is, he’d like to come along.  If not, that shouldn’t impede my quest for knowledge or a nice walk in a creek.

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Question:

Bill–thank you for the clearest, most succinct piece of fishing advice I’ve seen recently in this group. I’m also going to the Bahamas for the first time next week and your advice was timely and valuable.

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I am planning my first bonefish trip to Abaco in April. Does anyone have a list of what to pack (stuff like sunscreen,etc.) to fish this area. I have never traveled to the Bahamas and would appreciate any suggestions. Also, any recommendations on clothing and fly patterns would be great. Thanks.

Jim, As of yet I have to wet a line in the southern salt.  However I attended a lefty Kreh seminar last year with a few good general tips, as follows: Find out what colour the bottom is where you are going.  Tie light coloured flies for a light bottom..  A dark bait would seem out of place in "nature" A few good flies in different sizes and colours are better than a vest of mix and match.. FInd out if the fish are being caught on a high or low tide and fish accordingly… Suncreen, suncreen and more suncreen… Ian

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I am planning my first bonefish trip to Abaco in April. Does anyone have a list of what to pack (stuff like sunscreen,etc.) to fish this area. I have never traveled to the Bahamas and would appreciate any suggestions. Also, any recommendations on clothing and fly patterns would be great. Thanks.

Start with a good hat that has a bill that is dark on the underside and has a chin strap for wind. Next, Polarized glasses that are not to dark and are in brown to yellow tones with a neck strap and side shields. Good sun screen is a must. I like very light weight long sleeve shirts and long pants for sun protection in light colors. Orvis, Streamline, Simms and Bare make about the same neoprene, thick soled flats booties that are the standard foot wear today. Most anglers are using #7, 8 and 9 weight outfits for bonefish depending on the wind, fly size and weight. We like leaders that a either hand tied or knotless that are ~ 9′ and clear with a stiff/hard consistency. If the wind is not blowing and the fish are spooky, I just add 3 to 5 feet of tippet and go down a size in flies. I recommend Cortland or SA saltwater lines for the hotter weather. In the Bahamas they use light colored Nasty Charlies that were developed there by Bob Nauheim of Santa Rosa ( Fishing International). The McVay Gotcha is very popular and Lefty Kreh really promotes the chartruese/white Clouser minnows. You might bring some small light colored crabs?  We use smaller/lighter flies in shallow water ( #6/8), medium weight/size flies(#4/6) for average depths(12 to 18") and larger/heavier flies( #2) with lead eyes for deeper water or current drift from tide movement. Take something to clean the salt spray from you glasses. I use a fanny pack if we are going for a long walk on the flats. Bring a small water resistant camera, batteries and film. I use a big stainless steel combo forcepts/cutter that will pinch the barbs, cut leader/tippet and remove deeply hooked flies. I hope that all anglers could have one nice day on the flats with the bonefish. Bill Kiene Kiene’s Fly Shop Sacramento,CA,USA 800/4000FLY

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I am planning my first bonefish trip to Abaco in April. Does anyone have a list of what to pack (stuff like sunscreen,etc.) to fish this area. I have never traveled to the Bahamas and would appreciate any suggestions. Also, any recommendations on clothing and fly patterns would be great. Thanks.

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Question:

We are announcing the opening of a new full service flyfishing resort located in North Central Colorado, near Walden, Colorado.  The new lodge has a maximum capacity of 12 anglers per day and features gourmet foods, outstanding new accommodations and twelve miles of  private virgin headwaters of the North Platte that have never been fished by the public.  Excellent populations of browns, brookies, rainbows, cutthroats and cutbows (up to 5 lbs.) in the same water.  All walk and wade.  Guided.  Instruction available.  No extra costs.  Catch and release.  Tremendous variety of types of waters to fish.  For further information, check out http://little-grizzly-creek.com/lgc.html or e-mail to Co. Rd. #1,  Walden, Colorado.  80480.  970-723-4209

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – We are announcing the opening of a new full service flyfishing resort located in North Central Colorado, near Walden, Colorado.  The new lodge has a maximum capacity of 12 anglers per day and features gourmet foods, outstanding new accommodations and twelve miles of  private virgin headwaters of the North Platte that have never been fished by the public.  Excellent populations of browns, brookies, rainbows, cutthroats and cutbows (up to 5 lbs.) in the same water.  All walk and wade.  Guided.  Instruction available.  No extra costs.  Catch and release.  Tremendous variety of types of waters to fish.  For further information, check out http://little-grizzly-creek.com/lgc.html or e-mail to Co. Rd. #1,  Walden, Colorado.  80480.  970-723-4209

There goes another one. There it goes again !. There goes another one. When will it ever end ?. TimW

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New?  New my ass…new if your new to the group…but i think most of us are tiring of this add by now… Dan Foster

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Question:

I am considering the purchase of Gortex waders (simms guide model) and I was wondering what people’s experience has been regarding the durability of these waders as compared with neoprene.  I have heard that they are very subject to developing leaks,  I am very tough on equipment and would crawl over glass and through barb wire to get to fish.  I am most interested in what your actual experince has been with these products and not what somebody said. Thanks for input, T. Frank

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I am considering the purchase of Gortex waders (simms guide model) and I was wondering what people’s experience has been regarding the durability of these waders as compared with neoprene.  I have heard that they are very subject to developing leaks,  I am very tough on equipment and would crawl over glass and through barb wire to get to fish.  I am most interested in what your actual experince has been with these products and not what somebody said. Thanks for input, T. Frank

Although I don’t have any, the reason I don’t is my friends who do all had leaks. Some soon, some later, but all have had leaks so far. One friend has returned his waders 3 times, but they were an earlier model of a popular but unmentioned muanufacturer. (their service in exchanging them has been quite good.) The Simms guide model looks and fits great in extended sizes, but I have resisted the temptation so far. Don’t know anyone who has them yet. For now I’m sticking to nylon or supplex and neoprene. Kevin Williams

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I am considering the purchase of Gortex waders (simms guide model) and I was wondering what people’s experience has been regarding the durability of these waders as compared with neoprene. I have heard that they are very subject to developing leaks,  I am very tough on equipment and would crawl over glass and through barb wire to get to fish.  I am most interested in what your actual experince has been with these products and not what somebody said.

I’ve got a pair of Simms Gortex with about 150 hours on them with no problems but I’m real easy on equipment.  OTOH, I developed a leak in a pair neoprenes in the first 10 hours of use. John Johnson Atlanta, GA

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I have been using the Simms Gor-Tex for about 1 year. They are the most comfortable wader I’ve worn. If you walk thru briars, barbed wire, etc. you are going to get leaks. Mine have been of the pinhole variety and are easily patched on the inside. I think they are not as durable as neoprene but the are certainly a lot more comfortable. GL. Jack.

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I am considering the purchase of Gortex waders (simms guide model) and I was wondering what people’s experience has been regarding the durability of these waders as compared with neoprene. I have heard that they are very subject to developing leaks,  I am very tough on equipment and would crawl over glass and through barb wire to get to fish.  I am most interested in what your actual experince has been with these products and not what somebody said. Thanks for input, T. Frank

Hi I’m on my second season guiding with a pair of Simms Gortex.  They are the best investment I’ve ever made in the direction of my personal comfort.  Even in 100 degree heat I’m as comfortable as if I were wearing a pair of jeans. Regarding leaks:  The fine Goretex lining is subject pin hole leeks caused by nettles, thistles, etc.  The type of pointy objects that that will slip between the fibers on the outside protecting fabric and puncture the inner membrane.  The outside fabric is really quite tough so glass and barbed wire are less of a problem than the real fine pointed things I just mentioned. When I got my waders I bought a repair kit.  It’s real easy to use even on the stream if need be but the pin hole leeks are not like a leek in a regular wader.  They just kind of seep.  When I notice a wet spot on my jeans when I remove the waders at the end of the day I wait until I get home to fix them.  At home I reverse the waders and fill the reversed leg with water from a hose and mark the leek with a felt tip pen, empty the waders and hang them up to dry.  About an hour later I put on the goop and 20 minutes after that the patch and the waders are ready to go.  I consider this a very small price to pay for the incredible comfort I get as a result.  No more sweat soaked poly long handles for me, thank you. Tight Lines Al Beatty BT’s Fly Fishing Products Bozeman, MT (96 catalog)

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Question:

Has anyone been hitting reds (or specks for that matter) in or around Corpus, the Laguna Madre or Aransas Pass lately? We have been getting skunked in the Laguna using Clousers and other attractors.         john koon

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I was at Baffin Bay two weeks ago with our fly fishing club and the reds were really turned on there. No one using fly rods caught reds less than 27" long, and one member caught a 34-incher. The winds were howling that day – 40 knots, which made the fish much less wary, especially at 9 Mile Flat.

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I’m going to fish Pine Creek, Slate Run and Cedar Run, PA for the first time from May 20-25.  If anyone has some good advice or anecdotes about the area, I’d really appreciate it.  Any hints on nymphing would be great. I’ve been camping in the area before and plan to camp up Slate Run at the campground.  Is it free? crowded?  I read Charles Meck’s book on PA trout streams and also plan to call the local fly fishing shop at Slate Run, which apparently has a hotline. Also, any thoughts on the Little Juniata? Thanks a million

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Question:

(Ehrenstrom) sez: DAY AND WEED-END TRIPS, INCLUDING REEF TRIPS AND… Don’t you mean "day and reefer"… after all, how d’you get a weed-end? — COD — "What ho, Mercutio"  [Wm Shaksper] — "What? Homer Simpson?!" [M Groening]

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this sounds like advertising…is it?

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: ANYONE INTERESTED IN TRYING OUT SAIL-KAYAKS IN THE KEYS, CONTACT US. WE : ARE A GOOD GROUP OF PADDLERS OUT OF MARATHON ORGANIZING DAY AND WEED-END : TRIPS, INCLUDING REEF TRIPS AND FULL MOON PADDLES. THERE IS EVEN THE : OPPORTUNITY TO DO SOME GREAT FLY-FISHING ON THE MANY FLATS NEAR BY, AND : IT’S NOT UNUSUAL TO PADDLE WITH DOLPHINS. SO COME JOIN US IN THE SUNNY AND : WARM FLORIDA KEYS. I just love those "WEED-END" trips, myself. If it’s advertising, it obviously clueless advertising. —                              Stealth Paddler           "If you didn’t see me, it’s not because I wasn’t there!"                   "Gene Police!  You – Outta the Pool!"

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ANYONE INTERESTED IN TRYING OUT SAIL-KAYAKS IN THE KEYS, CONTACT US. WE ARE A GOOD GROUP OF PADDLERS OUT OF MARATHON ORGANIZING DAY AND WEED-END TRIPS, INCLUDING REEF TRIPS AND FULL MOON PADDLES. THERE IS EVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SOME GREAT FLY-FISHING ON THE MANY FLATS NEAR BY, AND IT’S NOT UNUSUAL TO PADDLE WITH DOLPHINS. SO COME JOIN US IN THE SUNNY AND WARM FLORIDA KEYS.

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Question:

TIP OF THE DAY; Studying insects helps anglers Knowing when aquatic insects should hatch gives you an advantage. Near the end of April, I fished a stretch of the Whitewater River = expecting a hatch of Hendrickson mayflies. I knew from experience that the adults show up on the water’s surface sometime between 2 = and 5 p.m. The day was perfect for good mayfly action, dark and ugly. At 11 a.m., I started wading upcurrent,  fishing  streamers. They didn’t = work. Next I dredged deep pools with nymphs. Bottom-hugging snags ate my nymphs. The trout were sulking.  A few tentative taps at my nymph pattern kept me awake. By 3 p.m., after 4 hours of hard  fishing,  I had caught and released only = four small browns. I probably would have given up then if I hadn’t known there would be a hatch. Just as I was beginning to wonder if the hatch really would occur, I roundeda bend and spied a platoon of 11- to 14-inch browns frol= icking in an ankle-deep riffle. They attacked. Every other drift through the riffle brought a strike – on each of the four different=  Hendrickson dry-fly patterns I used.

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URL http://www.deltanet.com/users/msangil

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