Number of Fish Caught: 2
Pattern: #12 Copper John
Location: Lily Creek, Emigrant Wilderness
Fished Lily Creek just below the log dam at Bear Lake, caught two trout, 1 rainbow and 1 Brookie. Fished for about an hour or two, but conditions worsened and we had to head out.
Report Submitted by: Jon H.
A short trip up north
East Carson River, CA Fly Fishing Report **September 15, 2010**
Date: 9-15-2010, 1 to 5:30 PM
Results: Two rainbows 14" and 12"
Method: Two fly nymph rig and caught both fish on the bottom fly, #16 bead head Prince Nymph.
Location: On highway 4 just north of the of the hwy 89 split.
Fishing was unexpectedly slow this afternoon, even when I switched to my dry-dropper set-up, which was successful on the 13th. After catching the two fish within the first 45 minutes I expected a more productive afternoon. Guess I should have caught the two fish and then taken a nap!
Report Submitted to the VFG Bulletin Board by: Dan Wallentine
Results: Two rainbows 14" and 12"
Method: Two fly nymph rig and caught both fish on the bottom fly, #16 bead head Prince Nymph.
Location: On highway 4 just north of the of the hwy 89 split.
Fishing was unexpectedly slow this afternoon, even when I switched to my dry-dropper set-up, which was successful on the 13th. After catching the two fish within the first 45 minutes I expected a more productive afternoon. Guess I should have caught the two fish and then taken a nap!
Report Submitted to the VFG Bulletin Board by: Dan Wallentine
First Ever Westslope Fly Shop Fly Swap
We want your Steelhead Mojo...
With the Grand Opening only a few weeks away and
Steelhead season upon us, we thought it’d be the perfect
time we put together our first ever Westslope Fly Shop
Fly Swap (Yes that is supposed to rhyme).
Get all the details here
With the Grand Opening only a few weeks away and
Steelhead season upon us, we thought it’d be the perfect
time we put together our first ever Westslope Fly Shop
Fly Swap (Yes that is supposed to rhyme).
Get all the details here
The Natives Are Restless
The cooler weather has the South Jersey Barracuda thinking about bulking up for a long cold winter. This fellow followed my fly three different times before finally eating it and then putting on a brief air show. There is something nice about catching a fresh water fish on a four weight that would like nothing better than taking a chunk out of your leg.
This one was a bit better suited for the four weight but still put a nice bend in it.
Review: The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy
Recently, I was asked to preview and then review the film, “The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy”. After watching the film for the first time, I was struck by the purity and Hardy passion for creating high quality products for the angling community. With its roots in Alnick, England, the Hardy Brothers set the standard for creating and manufacturing exceptional fishing tackle. In the same way, the producers of this film have done an exceptional job of capturing the history of the Hardy family and bringing to life, until now, their untold story. This DVD is a must see for any angler wanting to learn more about the history of rod building, fly reel construction, and the personalities that pioneered modern angling development. Look for “The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy” in your local fly shop or online where DVD’s are sold.
“The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy” is produced by Trufflepig Films. You can visit them at www.thelostworldofmrhardy.com
It certainly feels as though Autumn has started. Crisper mornings with clear blue skies. Whilst it is, at first glance, far from ideal conditons, fish can be surprisingly active into the evening. Often there's still some surface activity to be had. Even on stillwater, a long leader and a small spider will often find results.
Hook: Partridge SUD #20
Body: Hends wire (0.09), pink
Hackle: Greenwells Hen
Thread: Sheer 14/0 tan
Even smaller fish are welcome and give a healthy account of themselves:
~Dave
Hook: Partridge SUD #20
Body: Hends wire (0.09), pink
Hackle: Greenwells Hen
Thread: Sheer 14/0 tan
Even smaller fish are welcome and give a healthy account of themselves:
~Dave
Gear...Gear...and more Gear...
In my last entry I told you about 5 new products that we saw at the Denver Fly Fishing Dealers Show.
Here is an update;
In the quest for the ultimate indicator the screw top bobber was a falilure. John was on the Ronde this week and tried out our samples and they did not stay on the leader well. This is a product that was tried and failed you wont find these in the shop!!
So today another strike indicator is on the list. This one is called the Plumbobber. It looks promising is has a feature that will lock it into place at any point on the leader and then will release when a fish is hooked. This feature would be really convenient when chironomid fishing with a looong leader. It will get tested and if it passes the test you will find it in the shop. In the meantime we will be stocking the thingamabobber in the best colors in bulk so you don't have to buy a multipack with white ones in it that you can't see.
Another unique product is the "Magic Patch" this little piece of special material is used for drying out your fly before adding any floatant. But even better it will dry CDC flies that you are not supposed to put floatant on. It works we have tried it on CDC. The material is then sewed into a shape that is designed to hold a floatant bottle. It has a grommet on it to clip to your vest or pack. I think this one will be a keeper.
One of the fishing and tying tools from Dr. Slick that you need to check out is the twisted loop clamp I can't explain it here you need to look and it and try it. For those of us with big hands it gives a completely different grip range. For those clamps that you use on the stream or lake you will appreciate the ease of use. We will have this in a scissor and in a clamp model.
While we are on Dr. Slick, if you fish in cold weather and wear gloves or mittens and haven't tried the mitten clamp you need to get one. This is a great tool. We did not know how good it was until John found one on the Grande Ronde last winter and told me "Dad we need to stock these" we are stocking them!
The last item on the list this time is the Sage rod that has replaced the VT-2. I have a VT-2 in a #4 and it is my favorite rod. It has been my go to rod for Westslopes for a couple of years. I was a little disappointed that Sage was discontinuing the rod. Kind of like losing a friend in the line up. Well I had a chance to cast the new VXP at the Denver show. I tried it in a #3, #4 and #5 and I will forgive Sage for replacing the VT-2. First this is a beautiful stick a nice green color with green wraps and contrasting tipping. Over all it may be a tiny bit faster than the VT-2 but it is a easy rod to cast. This rod with a Rio Grand will be a rocket. The VXP will also be available in a two hander. We will have 6 sizes/weights in the single and 2 sizes in the spey model.
Like Mikey says "try it you'll like it"
Did we mention that on opening day we will have over 70 fly rods in stock!! Have you ever seen that many rods in one place? Man I can't wait.
Here is an update;
In the quest for the ultimate indicator the screw top bobber was a falilure. John was on the Ronde this week and tried out our samples and they did not stay on the leader well. This is a product that was tried and failed you wont find these in the shop!!
So today another strike indicator is on the list. This one is called the Plumbobber. It looks promising is has a feature that will lock it into place at any point on the leader and then will release when a fish is hooked. This feature would be really convenient when chironomid fishing with a looong leader. It will get tested and if it passes the test you will find it in the shop. In the meantime we will be stocking the thingamabobber in the best colors in bulk so you don't have to buy a multipack with white ones in it that you can't see.
Another unique product is the "Magic Patch" this little piece of special material is used for drying out your fly before adding any floatant. But even better it will dry CDC flies that you are not supposed to put floatant on. It works we have tried it on CDC. The material is then sewed into a shape that is designed to hold a floatant bottle. It has a grommet on it to clip to your vest or pack. I think this one will be a keeper.
One of the fishing and tying tools from Dr. Slick that you need to check out is the twisted loop clamp I can't explain it here you need to look and it and try it. For those of us with big hands it gives a completely different grip range. For those clamps that you use on the stream or lake you will appreciate the ease of use. We will have this in a scissor and in a clamp model.
While we are on Dr. Slick, if you fish in cold weather and wear gloves or mittens and haven't tried the mitten clamp you need to get one. This is a great tool. We did not know how good it was until John found one on the Grande Ronde last winter and told me "Dad we need to stock these" we are stocking them!
The last item on the list this time is the Sage rod that has replaced the VT-2. I have a VT-2 in a #4 and it is my favorite rod. It has been my go to rod for Westslopes for a couple of years. I was a little disappointed that Sage was discontinuing the rod. Kind of like losing a friend in the line up. Well I had a chance to cast the new VXP at the Denver show. I tried it in a #3, #4 and #5 and I will forgive Sage for replacing the VT-2. First this is a beautiful stick a nice green color with green wraps and contrasting tipping. Over all it may be a tiny bit faster than the VT-2 but it is a easy rod to cast. This rod with a Rio Grand will be a rocket. The VXP will also be available in a two hander. We will have 6 sizes/weights in the single and 2 sizes in the spey model.
Like Mikey says "try it you'll like it"
Did we mention that on opening day we will have over 70 fly rods in stock!! Have you ever seen that many rods in one place? Man I can't wait.
lucky lucky lucky bastard guy.
1) Lucky lucky lucky bastard guy gets drawn for muzzleloader Antelope (hard to do) and blasts one.
2) Lucky lucky lucky bastard guy also gets drawn for early season bull elk tag (almost impossible to do) and on the first day shoots himself a 7x6 trophy bull. (estimated 340 point range)
then...
3) Lucky lucky lucky bastard guy still has vacation time so he decides to spend some time fishing on the Black River and snags a 30in, 13.64lb brown.
...loss for words.
Read story here....
Update: local sources tell me that this fish was named "Bippie" and used to like to dine on bread and cold cuts.
RIP Bippie.
2) Lucky lucky lucky bastard guy also gets drawn for early season bull elk tag (almost impossible to do) and on the first day shoots himself a 7x6 trophy bull. (estimated 340 point range)
then...
3) Lucky lucky lucky bastard guy still has vacation time so he decides to spend some time fishing on the Black River and snags a 30in, 13.64lb brown.
...loss for words.
Read story here....
Update: local sources tell me that this fish was named "Bippie" and used to like to dine on bread and cold cuts.
RIP Bippie.
The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy
Visit the Virtual Fly Guides in a couple days for a review of "The Lost World Of Mr. Hardy" DVD. In the meantime, enjoy the trailer.
Notes from the Running Hun Lodge
The Excalibur Drilling Boys with Tish and a few Pintails |
The wet Spring and Summer in Saskatchewan has made things interesting ... in a lot of ways .
Wet conditions have made it almost impossible to drive the "gumbo " roads and the wheat fields remain uncut ... with all this standing water around we have had one excellent option ..Ducks ! and lots of them .Pintails ,Mallards , Teal and Wigeon are around in epic numbers.
We have broken out the decoys and Robo Duck , we have been shooting from coffin and willow blinds and our guests have been stimulating the local economy thru their purchases of Tungsten and Steel Shot.
The Britts and English Pointers have had to take a back seat and the one and only Lab in Camp who has stolen the show .We have been all over it and so has Tish who over the last 7 days has retrieved over 100 ducks.She is marking her birds well and getting right into it , whimpering as the birds circle above the decoys.
A long shot on a Mallard |
Covey sizes vary from 4 -25 birds , the small coveys are left alone , the larger ones are fair game. Now that the Pointers are getting out a bit they are shaking themselves out after a summer laying around in Arizona,funny how dogs who have not pointed birds since April pick up where they left off .
As we head towards and into October this area will start filling up with more White Fronts ,Ducks and Cranes , We are suggesting that Clients take advantage of the Waterfowl hunting and mix it up.
Rob Block covering an Okie Point |
Okie with a Hun |
Blue Winged Teal |
Spot Pointing Sharptails |
Salmon fishing is looking up...
Nearly an inch of rain fell in Lifton last night, meaning that the water we so badly needed in the rivers has now arrived.
The Tamar and tributaries are all up and coloured, which is great news for salmon fishers. The extra water has nicely coincided with the big spring tides, which should encourage numbers of fish to run.
If you are able to grab a last minute day or two with a salmon rod, now's the time!
You can catch David or Tim on 01566 784666 between 9am and 10am and 6.30pm and 7pm for more information.
The Tamar and tributaries are all up and coloured, which is great news for salmon fishers. The extra water has nicely coincided with the big spring tides, which should encourage numbers of fish to run.
If you are able to grab a last minute day or two with a salmon rod, now's the time!
You can catch David or Tim on 01566 784666 between 9am and 10am and 6.30pm and 7pm for more information.
Gear: For the Female Fly Fisher
Hilary's #IFTD coverage of a new fly rod complete with built in bling bling, got us thinking about the pros and cons of marketing gear specifically to women. To that end we started scouring the intertubes for examples. We found the usual pink revolvers, pink fishing vests, pink reels, and even this nifty rotary fly box complete with built in hatch calendar.
No word yet as to.....scratch that, whatever joke we make here will only serve to get us in trouble with the Editorial Trophy Wife. Feel free to make up for our fear prudence in the comments.
East Carson River, CA Fly Fishing Report **September 5, 2010**
Sean Wallentine
Sacramento, CA
Body of Water: E Carson River, Alpine County, CA
Date: Sunday, September 5, 2010
# of Fish Caught: 6
Species: 5 Rainbows & 1 Brown
Size: Biggest was 14"
Effective Flies: #16 Green BH Pulsating Caddis Nymph
Summary:Fished alone. Good weather and water flow.
Sacramento, CA
Body of Water: E Carson River, Alpine County, CA
Date: Sunday, September 5, 2010
# of Fish Caught: 6
Species: 5 Rainbows & 1 Brown
Size: Biggest was 14"
Effective Flies: #16 Green BH Pulsating Caddis Nymph
Summary:Fished alone. Good weather and water flow.
The Fish of 1,000 casts...
Steelhead season has finally arrived and Jesse (our FFF certified casting guru) has some great tips to get you in to the fish and save the wear and tear on you body...
If it is true that the Steelhead is a fish of a thousand casts your body will thank you for making your cast more efficient. Those of us old school anglers who still enjoy fishing with a single handed rod put a lot of wear and tear on the arm and shoulder casting bigger rods and flies. I have a few suggestions to make those thousand casts and still be able to drive home...
Jesse's impressions from the Fly Fishing Retailer Show
John and I spent two long days at the international fly fishing dealers show in Denver last week. I was on equipment overload half way through the first day. There were 240+ booths ranging from the small business area where small companies and individuals could show their products inexpensively on a 8' table to the huge mega booth from the Sage family (Sage, Redington, Rio and C&F).
The thing that I was impressed with is the new innovative products. The sport is so advanced that sometimes I think that there is nothing to improve on, but I was wrong. A few of the things I was impressed with that you will probably see in the shop when we open:
1. There is a new float indicator that is similar to the thingamabobber but instead of an eye at the top the top unscrews and you wrap your leader around the threaded portion and tighten it up. It seals with an o-ring this keeps it in place.
2. A clip that will attach to your vest, waders or shirt with a magnetized back (no holes in the fabric) it has a hook that will hold your rod at the stripping guide. Hands free to re-rig or change flies. I will have one with me all the time.
3. Scientific Anglers has bright fluorescent orange practice leaders with yarn attached. As a casting instructor is really nice to be able to see the line and leader when casting or teaching.
These leaders will make it a lot easier to work on your casting and getting that leader to straighten out. We will have these on our demo rods come check them out.
4. Sharks Tooth, maybe you have seen it, but this is the first time I have used it. It is an elastic band that fits around your tippet spools thread your tippet through the hole and it manages your line. Pull out what you need and the sharks tooth cutter on the elastic band nips it off, look ma only one hand needed.
5. Storage containers... We found a small innovative company that is making some great storage containers for flies and tying materials. The container that we will be using for customers to put their flies in is now usable in so many ways. I wont be able to explain it here but the system is so simple and effective you will be amazed.. AND it is so inexpensive I could not believe it. We will have them on hand in all the sizes and styles you have to see it to believe it.
These items are just a small portion of the new things we saw and tried out. In the days to come we will have more information about the show and the new goodies we saw and will have in the shop when we open.
Stay tuned the opening is getting closer

The thing that I was impressed with is the new innovative products. The sport is so advanced that sometimes I think that there is nothing to improve on, but I was wrong. A few of the things I was impressed with that you will probably see in the shop when we open:
1. There is a new float indicator that is similar to the thingamabobber but instead of an eye at the top the top unscrews and you wrap your leader around the threaded portion and tighten it up. It seals with an o-ring this keeps it in place.
2. A clip that will attach to your vest, waders or shirt with a magnetized back (no holes in the fabric) it has a hook that will hold your rod at the stripping guide. Hands free to re-rig or change flies. I will have one with me all the time.
3. Scientific Anglers has bright fluorescent orange practice leaders with yarn attached. As a casting instructor is really nice to be able to see the line and leader when casting or teaching.
These leaders will make it a lot easier to work on your casting and getting that leader to straighten out. We will have these on our demo rods come check them out.
4. Sharks Tooth, maybe you have seen it, but this is the first time I have used it. It is an elastic band that fits around your tippet spools thread your tippet through the hole and it manages your line. Pull out what you need and the sharks tooth cutter on the elastic band nips it off, look ma only one hand needed.
5. Storage containers... We found a small innovative company that is making some great storage containers for flies and tying materials. The container that we will be using for customers to put their flies in is now usable in so many ways. I wont be able to explain it here but the system is so simple and effective you will be amazed.. AND it is so inexpensive I could not believe it. We will have them on hand in all the sizes and styles you have to see it to believe it.
These items are just a small portion of the new things we saw and tried out. In the days to come we will have more information about the show and the new goodies we saw and will have in the shop when we open.
Stay tuned the opening is getting closer

Maine Striper Fishing Report: Super Fly Charters September 21st, 2010
This Report Will Be Simple...Come Fish The Kennebec...We Are Slaying The Stripers!!!
We still have lots of great fishing left between now and mid October so please contact us to reserve a tide or two..
Maine Striper Fishing Guide
Capt. George Harris
207-691-0745
www.superfly-charters.com
We still have lots of great fishing left between now and mid October so please contact us to reserve a tide or two..
Maine Striper Fishing Guide
Capt. George Harris
207-691-0745
www.superfly-charters.com
East Carson River, CA Fly Fishing Report **September 13, 2010**
Date: 9-13-2010, 2 to 5 PM
Results: Four rainbows, 8 to 12" and one brown 15".
Method: Dry, royal stimulator #14 and dropper #18, bead head green sparkle emerger.
Location: I fished the section just about the highway 89 and 4 split. This section is known to hold large stocked rainbows up to 27", but competeing with spin casters intent on "taking fish" is a challenge at times. The river below the bridge just east of Marleeville is restricted to catch and release single barbless hooks only. Having fished that area on a previous trip I know that it can be productive also. I recommend that a visit to the Tahoe Flyfishing Outfitters in S. Lake Tahoe for the latest info and river conditions.
Report Submitted by: Dan Wallentine on the VFG Bulletin Board
Results: Four rainbows, 8 to 12" and one brown 15".
Method: Dry, royal stimulator #14 and dropper #18, bead head green sparkle emerger.
Location: I fished the section just about the highway 89 and 4 split. This section is known to hold large stocked rainbows up to 27", but competeing with spin casters intent on "taking fish" is a challenge at times. The river below the bridge just east of Marleeville is restricted to catch and release single barbless hooks only. Having fished that area on a previous trip I know that it can be productive also. I recommend that a visit to the Tahoe Flyfishing Outfitters in S. Lake Tahoe for the latest info and river conditions.
Report Submitted by: Dan Wallentine on the VFG Bulletin Board
I'll be at the Bristol Branch of the Fly Dressers Guild this Wednesday (22nd September) to demonstrate some fly tying.
A range of patterns, both dry and sub-surface are on the cards, including a version this poly yarn spinner and some from the River Fly Box. I look forward to seeing some of you there:
The Bristol FDG
~Dave
A range of patterns, both dry and sub-surface are on the cards, including a version this poly yarn spinner and some from the River Fly Box. I look forward to seeing some of you there:
The Bristol FDG
~Dave
River Report
Four salmon have been landed and released on the Arundell Arms water this week, following a rise of a few inches last weekend. Dennis Mitchell landed his first two ever salmon - a 10-pounder on fly at Lydfoot on Monday, followed by a 9lb fish on spinner in Railway Hut Pool on Tuesday. David Pilkington landed a grilse of around 4lb and lost a much bigger fish in Silver Doctor on the Lyd on Wednesday on a Sunray Shadow. Yesterday evening, young Freddie Wordie landed a fish of around 6lb on a Sunray Shadow in Tunnel Pool on beat 7B. Several fish have been showing, but a little rise in water would bring more to the beats and give more favourable conditions in which to catch them. At present, the Tamar and Lyd are both running relatively low.
Trout fishing is good with fish freely rising to black gnats, small, dark sedges and stoneflies. Some good trout of 10in + have been caught, mainly on dry flies and small goldhead nymphs. Sea trout fishing has petered out rather, with low night time temperatures providing difficult conditions in which to catch fish.
Overall a little rain should provide a good back end to the salmon season.
Trout fishing is good with fish freely rising to black gnats, small, dark sedges and stoneflies. Some good trout of 10in + have been caught, mainly on dry flies and small goldhead nymphs. Sea trout fishing has petered out rather, with low night time temperatures providing difficult conditions in which to catch fish.
Overall a little rain should provide a good back end to the salmon season.
Best Rod.......On A Limited Budget
Since my budget has shrunk, not that it was ever that large to begin with, the best fly rod on a budget is from Rajeff Sports. The Echo line of fly rods can match any fly fishing application and are very reasonably priced. I love mine.
Maine StripeD Bass Fishing Report Super Fly Charters: Kennebec River 9/17/2010
Check out some of our pictures from the last few guided Striper fishing trips that we've had this week...I think they'll show what kind of fishing that we've been having
We still have lots of great fishing left between now and mid October so please contact us to reserve a tide or two..
Maine Striper Fishing Guide
Capt. George Harris
207-691-0745
www.superfly-charters.com
We still have lots of great fishing left between now and mid October so please contact us to reserve a tide or two..
Maine Striper Fishing Guide
Capt. George Harris
207-691-0745
www.superfly-charters.com
FlyFish Mag at IFTD--Part Fin
Ross Diamond Women's Rod
MSRP: $299-$319
The fine folks at Ross (follow them on twitter @flyfishpro) swear on Grandpappy's secret fishin' spot that the new Diamond rod is not dumbed down for women. New for 2011, the 4pc 3wt-8wt Diamond series is built on the Ross premium Rx graphite blanks with some women-specific attention, including a 25% reduction in the cork handle diameter, and a nice burgundy color. It's well-made, high-end-yet-affordable, lightweight, and has proper balance and power. But all this is unfortunately overshadowed for me by the feature that still has me scratching my head. Is it really necessary to gild the lily with a small fake diamond as seen in the picture above? Ross's own product description in the catalog states: "Custom cosmetics and a little bit of bling make this series a truly unique offering for female anglers who fish in style." I actually love to fish in sundresses and sparkly earrings, and my toenails are often painted in "sunrise poppy" so I'm not entirely sure why I take offense to the faux diamond accent on this rod. I guess I feel that when making women-specific gear, rod companies should think of us as fishing with style through our cast, patience, rhythm, presentation and love for water and wildlife, rather than fishing in style. And while I like wearing sparkly things on my ears, my earrings have nothing to do with my gear. I want my fly rod to be serious, solid, smooth and badass. Not foofy or glittery.
This is why I'm on the fence about this:
Ross F1 Reel Series
MSRP: $425-$525
The new F1 reel caused more buzz than a booth-full of bees at IFTD this year. And, at the risk of following the herd, my choice for IFTD "Best in Show." The words most associated with this reel so far are, "revolutionary" and "game-changing." The F1 is inspired by Formula 1 race car braking systems. With eight independent contact points to the friction system, the drag is designed to be the smoothest and most dependable on the planet with unmatched stopping power thanks to two-times the carbon fiber drag surface of other reels on the market. I'm told there's no start-up friction. The drag knob is cherry--it's a constant-torque, so you don't experience the prohibitive tension on the drag as you tighten, which can make you drop your rod tip and lose fish. The thing maxes out at 7 1/2 lbs of drag. The durable, heat resistant, totally sealed reel looks and feels like such a smooth machine, you'd think it had a motor. A carbon fiber stabilizer holds the spool as two fully-sealed stainless steel ball bearings offer a smooth rotation and great fit. And its unique, super-easy right/left hand retrieve conversion mechanism is the first like it in the industry.
Congrats to Ross Reels for being a leader in innovation and keeping us excited!
Finally from IFTD, here is a link to youtube video of Ross Worldwide's Jeff Hickman at the spey pond talking about the new Ross switch rod.
MSRP: $299-$319
The fine folks at Ross (follow them on twitter @flyfishpro) swear on Grandpappy's secret fishin' spot that the new Diamond rod is not dumbed down for women. New for 2011, the 4pc 3wt-8wt Diamond series is built on the Ross premium Rx graphite blanks with some women-specific attention, including a 25% reduction in the cork handle diameter, and a nice burgundy color. It's well-made, high-end-yet-affordable, lightweight, and has proper balance and power. But all this is unfortunately overshadowed for me by the feature that still has me scratching my head. Is it really necessary to gild the lily with a small fake diamond as seen in the picture above? Ross's own product description in the catalog states: "Custom cosmetics and a little bit of bling make this series a truly unique offering for female anglers who fish in style." I actually love to fish in sundresses and sparkly earrings, and my toenails are often painted in "sunrise poppy" so I'm not entirely sure why I take offense to the faux diamond accent on this rod. I guess I feel that when making women-specific gear, rod companies should think of us as fishing with style through our cast, patience, rhythm, presentation and love for water and wildlife, rather than fishing in style. And while I like wearing sparkly things on my ears, my earrings have nothing to do with my gear. I want my fly rod to be serious, solid, smooth and badass. Not foofy or glittery.
This is why I'm on the fence about this:
- I like the Diamond rod itself, but I do NOT like its name, "Diamond," and I do NOT like the diamond.
- I appreciate that Ross is paying attention to women, but I think the diamond indicates the wrong kind of attention.
- I am relieved that the rod is not pink, but it might as well be pink if there's going to be "bling" on it.
Ross F1 Reel Series
MSRP: $425-$525
The new F1 reel caused more buzz than a booth-full of bees at IFTD this year. And, at the risk of following the herd, my choice for IFTD "Best in Show." The words most associated with this reel so far are, "revolutionary" and "game-changing." The F1 is inspired by Formula 1 race car braking systems. With eight independent contact points to the friction system, the drag is designed to be the smoothest and most dependable on the planet with unmatched stopping power thanks to two-times the carbon fiber drag surface of other reels on the market. I'm told there's no start-up friction. The drag knob is cherry--it's a constant-torque, so you don't experience the prohibitive tension on the drag as you tighten, which can make you drop your rod tip and lose fish. The thing maxes out at 7 1/2 lbs of drag. The durable, heat resistant, totally sealed reel looks and feels like such a smooth machine, you'd think it had a motor. A carbon fiber stabilizer holds the spool as two fully-sealed stainless steel ball bearings offer a smooth rotation and great fit. And its unique, super-easy right/left hand retrieve conversion mechanism is the first like it in the industry.
Congrats to Ross Reels for being a leader in innovation and keeping us excited!
Finally from IFTD, here is a link to youtube video of Ross Worldwide's Jeff Hickman at the spey pond talking about the new Ross switch rod.
distracted...
Sometimes you just have to go to war in the button aisle of the local craft store, and the random fly-tying-supply-foraging be damned.
Labels:
fly tying,
non-fishing,
nonsense
Big river. Big flies. All dries.
Cormac McCarthy is the finest prose stylist of his generation. His novel The Road, winner of the Pulitzer Prize, is the finest book of any generation. McCarthy's writing is tight as a coiled Brassie. Just as effective and understated. In deference to the great American master, pale imitation ...
I've never seen the Columbia River as good as it is right now. Hoppers and October Caddis. That's it. We haven't used a fly smaller than size 8 in two weeks. We've used three patterns. Clients with gunslinger hooksets and the ability to manage 30 feet of line are netting the biggest 'bows of their lives.
Tom is one such client. So is Jim. Tom was told at a local flyshop that he would have to fish the Slocan right now to fish dries. The local flyshop clerk should consider another line of work. The new generation of anglers travel in packs and miss the point entirely. Streamcraft is lost on them. They don't know that at certain times of the year trout will look for orange bodies when no orange bodies are evident. The trout look but the anglers don't. They spend their lives looking down while the trout look up. They look down and peck at iPhones, immersed in nothing.
Tom hooked a great trout last evening. The rise was an optical illusion. The fly was on the water's surface and then it wasn't, a hole in the river, no visible disturbance. Tom struck. The great fish jumped two feet above the water, the pink yarn on top of the fly glowing like a comet. The fish broke off. It jumped once more and the fly came off, floating down the river. Attached to nothing.
Did you see that?
Yes.
The fly in its mouth?
Yes.
What are the odds?
Nothing and nothing.
My Lab Rio will be put down soon. His organs are failing. He's spent 13 years in boats and stubble and campers and curled up in front of fires. He's lived a fuller life than most because he's always looking up. He will be buried beneath a fir tree in the forest outside our cabin. Squirrels often take up in the tree, chattering and spewing shells onto the peat below. Rio would like that. The irony of the damned squirrels. A simple plaque on the tree will conclude with the words My Best Friend. My great dog has taught me much over 13 years. Most importantly, how to see what others miss. How to look up.
There are several weeks of guiding left, but this will be my final blog of the season. When Rio's gone I am heading to the South Island for five months. The noise of silence without Rio would be too much for a long Kootenays winter. Alone with a backpack and a flyrod and a one-man tent and the notion to stalk big browns in remote New Zealand rivers with dry flies. Foursomes are for golf courses, not streamsides. Fly-fishing is not a herd mentality.
Thank you for another great season. Great people on great rivers and streams. You fed Rio your excess apples and cookies and sandwiches, and you fed me your company and companionship. I hope that I was able to impart something in return. This blog entry is dedicated to Rio. I love you, old fella ... Chris
I've never seen the Columbia River as good as it is right now. Hoppers and October Caddis. That's it. We haven't used a fly smaller than size 8 in two weeks. We've used three patterns. Clients with gunslinger hooksets and the ability to manage 30 feet of line are netting the biggest 'bows of their lives.
Tom is one such client. So is Jim. Tom was told at a local flyshop that he would have to fish the Slocan right now to fish dries. The local flyshop clerk should consider another line of work. The new generation of anglers travel in packs and miss the point entirely. Streamcraft is lost on them. They don't know that at certain times of the year trout will look for orange bodies when no orange bodies are evident. The trout look but the anglers don't. They spend their lives looking down while the trout look up. They look down and peck at iPhones, immersed in nothing.
Jim with hopper-eating rainbow |
Pumpkin Caddis |
Tom hooked a great trout last evening. The rise was an optical illusion. The fly was on the water's surface and then it wasn't, a hole in the river, no visible disturbance. Tom struck. The great fish jumped two feet above the water, the pink yarn on top of the fly glowing like a comet. The fish broke off. It jumped once more and the fly came off, floating down the river. Attached to nothing.
Did you see that?
Yes.
The fly in its mouth?
Yes.
What are the odds?
Nothing and nothing.
Flex-Wing Caddis - Hot October |
Jim with October-eating rainbow |
My Lab Rio will be put down soon. His organs are failing. He's spent 13 years in boats and stubble and campers and curled up in front of fires. He's lived a fuller life than most because he's always looking up. He will be buried beneath a fir tree in the forest outside our cabin. Squirrels often take up in the tree, chattering and spewing shells onto the peat below. Rio would like that. The irony of the damned squirrels. A simple plaque on the tree will conclude with the words My Best Friend. My great dog has taught me much over 13 years. Most importantly, how to see what others miss. How to look up.
Unknown angler with Lab on Columbia River |
There are several weeks of guiding left, but this will be my final blog of the season. When Rio's gone I am heading to the South Island for five months. The noise of silence without Rio would be too much for a long Kootenays winter. Alone with a backpack and a flyrod and a one-man tent and the notion to stalk big browns in remote New Zealand rivers with dry flies. Foursomes are for golf courses, not streamsides. Fly-fishing is not a herd mentality.
Tom with October-eating rainbow |
Orange fly, big 'bow |
Jim with Slocan River rainbow |
Rio Grande |
FlyFish Mag at IFTD--Part 3
I heard someone at IFTD say, "thank goodness Redington got rid of that Rubbermaid logo!" I didn't dislike the old logo, but I do think the new one looks pretty slick on Redington's new apparel line. But the logo isn't what had me all touchy-feely in the Redington booth. My fingerprints were all over their new products, especially since their purchase-friendly pricing is enticing.
Redington Deschutes Rain Jacket
MSRP $149.95
After seeing it at the show, I've been thinking a lot about Redington's new Deschutes Rain Jacket for women. Especially yesterday, when we got stuck in a torrential downpour on the Elk River in British Columbia. This jacket should catch your attention with its good looks, but further capture you attention with its price. For 150-bucks, it's a great value, especially considering it is a technical piece featuring 2.5 layer Red Storm waterproof/breathable fabric with fully taped seams, four-way stretch, adjustable hood and cuffs and pit zips. Even though it's a rain jacket, it's not crunchy or loud. The trim-fitting cut is very flattering, and I think most women will agree that the moss color is beautiful. It's great to see Redington's new apparel line feature a head-turning technical piece at price that will encourage women to stay out in the rain long after the boys have bagged it.
Redington Crosswater Youth Outfit
MSRP $139.95
It's clear that Redington is a leader in the charge to make fly fishing fun, more accessible and affordable to anglers of all ages and ability levels. The new Redington Crosswater Youth Outfit is a great example of how easy it can be to get young people into good gear. Teens and beginners can rest assured that this is not a "kid" rod package. It looks legit, and I'm told it fishes very smoothly for a solid entry into the sport. The 8'6", 4-pc 5/6wt setup comes with a Redington Crosswater reel and pre-spooled Rio Mainstream line and knotless leader. Oh, and even a sleek rod case! And the whole thing, with fish facts and information printed on the box, is under 140 bones.
fishpond Tundra Tech Pack
MSRP $239
With more and more outdoor enthusiasts adding fly fishing to their list of chronic adventures, the need for a backpack/fly pack combo is ever-prevalent. Fishpond has responded to the demand with its new Tundra Tech Pack. The 1524 cubic inches of space offer plenty of room for overnight gear, while allowing a separate space for fishing accessories with the modular chest pack. The chest pack can be worn together or separately from the main pack, and can be moved to attach to the back when accessing fishing supplies isn't necessary. Now that's what I call a proper appropriation of integration and separation! The entire system is designed to be comfortable and low-maintenance with an internal frame, integrated rod tube system to carry two rods securely and a 100oz hydration reservoir.
Tomorrow, in my final IFTD report, I'll post about a rod that has me on the fence about women-specific fishing products, I'll link to video I shot of a hot switch rod, and I'll freak out about my pick for "Best of Show."
Redington Deschutes Rain Jacket
MSRP $149.95
After seeing it at the show, I've been thinking a lot about Redington's new Deschutes Rain Jacket for women. Especially yesterday, when we got stuck in a torrential downpour on the Elk River in British Columbia. This jacket should catch your attention with its good looks, but further capture you attention with its price. For 150-bucks, it's a great value, especially considering it is a technical piece featuring 2.5 layer Red Storm waterproof/breathable fabric with fully taped seams, four-way stretch, adjustable hood and cuffs and pit zips. Even though it's a rain jacket, it's not crunchy or loud. The trim-fitting cut is very flattering, and I think most women will agree that the moss color is beautiful. It's great to see Redington's new apparel line feature a head-turning technical piece at price that will encourage women to stay out in the rain long after the boys have bagged it.
Redington Crosswater Youth Outfit
MSRP $139.95
It's clear that Redington is a leader in the charge to make fly fishing fun, more accessible and affordable to anglers of all ages and ability levels. The new Redington Crosswater Youth Outfit is a great example of how easy it can be to get young people into good gear. Teens and beginners can rest assured that this is not a "kid" rod package. It looks legit, and I'm told it fishes very smoothly for a solid entry into the sport. The 8'6", 4-pc 5/6wt setup comes with a Redington Crosswater reel and pre-spooled Rio Mainstream line and knotless leader. Oh, and even a sleek rod case! And the whole thing, with fish facts and information printed on the box, is under 140 bones.
fishpond Tundra Tech Pack
MSRP $239
With more and more outdoor enthusiasts adding fly fishing to their list of chronic adventures, the need for a backpack/fly pack combo is ever-prevalent. Fishpond has responded to the demand with its new Tundra Tech Pack. The 1524 cubic inches of space offer plenty of room for overnight gear, while allowing a separate space for fishing accessories with the modular chest pack. The chest pack can be worn together or separately from the main pack, and can be moved to attach to the back when accessing fishing supplies isn't necessary. Now that's what I call a proper appropriation of integration and separation! The entire system is designed to be comfortable and low-maintenance with an internal frame, integrated rod tube system to carry two rods securely and a 100oz hydration reservoir.
Tomorrow, in my final IFTD report, I'll post about a rod that has me on the fence about women-specific fishing products, I'll link to video I shot of a hot switch rod, and I'll freak out about my pick for "Best of Show."