The New G Series Fly Rod From Scott: Video
The new Scott G Series may be my favorite small stream rod…ever.
This technical little rod is a winner. The G-2 has such a strong cult following that Scott rod designer, Jim Bartschi thought long and hard before messing with success. Ten years to be precise. It was time well spent. The new G Series rod is a marked improvement.
I’m always fascinated by the thought process of rod designers. I love to hear them talk about their rods and what they hope to accomplish with tapers and technology. This video is a great example. It will give you a much deeper understanding of this great tool.
WATCH THE VIDEO AND GET THE DETAILS ABOUT THE NEW SCOTT G SERIES FLY ROD.
Read More »Pack The Heat So You Can Pack it Out
NO TREES HERE TO CLIMB AND I CAN BARELY SEE THE TRUCK WITH MY NAKED EYES FAR OFF IN THE DISTANCE.
The recent run-in with the local WYDNR officer, who just gave me the run down about heavy bear activity in the area, has got me the heebie-jeebies. I’m trying to let loose and be one with the rod, but I can’t stop from thinking I’m smelling wet dog in the air, and I’m terrified of what could be lurking behind the thick moose brush out of sight. If you’re in the process of planning a trip into the deep wilderness where bear, moose, and other dangerous predators thrive, you just might consider purchasing a canister of pepper spray, and keep it holstered on your side. Hell it could save your life.
Two years ago, I stumbled right on top of a Boon & Crockett moose bedded down during a short hike-in to a secluded stretch of the Snake River. Luckily, we both decided to flight in opposite directions, and I only had to change my britches before wetting a line. Guiding in Alaska one season, I somehow managed to stay under the radar, as two giant brown bears went toe to toe battling over a spawning bed within inches of my outpost tent. And I’ll never forget the feeling of total panic, when I walked up on a fresh bloody mule deer kill on the Upper Hoback River this past July. With my heart pounding out my chest, and the realization of no one knowing my whereabouts, I quickly said the hell with fishing, and high-tailed it back to the truck before I became desert.
We often drop a thousand dollars or more for our out of town fly fishing trips without giving it a second thought. That’s why I find it ironic, that when we get there, we gawk at the $50 price tag of a can of pepper spray. I’m not sure if it’s my life experiences that’s making me wiser, or if I’m just getting softer in my old age, but I’m damn sure of one thing
Read More »Sunday Classic / The Fight Isn’t Over When You Get a Tarpon Boat-Side
Catching a tarpon on the fly is a feat most fly fishers dream about but never experience. Some fly anglers get lucky right out the gates, but for most of us, catching one of these beasts on the fly often takes several trips to accomplish. My good friend Capt. Bruce Chard is one of the most competent tarpon guides I know and has taught me a great deal about chasing the silverking. When he put me on my first 125 pound plus tarpon he made a point to let me know that the fight isn’t over when you get a tarpon boat-side.
Bruce Chard explained to me that many tarpon
Read More »Saturday Shoutout / Vokey’s Public Land Double
Two different perspectives on public land.
This is a really interesting back-to-back podcast on the current public land issues. April sits down for a conversation, first with Donald Trump Jr, Then with Corley Kenna, of Patagonia, to discuss the policy and threats to American public land. It is insightful, informative and thorough.
If you are a person who loves the outdoors, and why else would you be here, this is a must listen. I urge you to get informed and get involved. We are at a pivotal moment in our history. there is much to be lost or gained.
ENJOY, ANCHORED, WITH APRIL VOKEY
Read More »New Fly Rods From Sage
Two hot new fly-rods for2018 from the folks at Sage.
Sage has updated their lineup with a couple of interesting players. The new Salt HD takes technology from the Sage X and utilizes it in the popular Salt platform. Each model is focused on specific situations flats anglers will face in real life fishing. The Salt HD is available in weights 6-13 and 16.
Also new this year is the Foundation. A fast action Sage rod intended to introduce the brand to anglers who may have been sticker shy in the past. At $325, it’s the most approachable rod in the Sage lineup.
WITH THE VIDEO AND GET THE DETAILS ON THE NEW SAGE FLY RODS.
Read More »Keep Your Rod Tip Off the Water for Longer Drag-Free Drifts
Are you finding yourself struggling to get long drag-free drifts on the water?
If the answer is yes, you may be holding your rod tip too close to the water during your drifts. When your rod tip is positioned too low, you’re putting unnecessary fly line on the water that you in turn have to manage in order to maintain a drag-free drift. As soon as this unwanted fly line hits the waters surface, it’s immediately subjected to the surrounding currents. Depending on how fast the current is at your feet, the less time it will take for it to be pulled downstream and begin effecting your drift. Eventually all the slack will be pulled out in your fly line and your drag-free drift will be compromised. There’s of course a happy medium though, on rod tip position. Too high, and anglers will find it difficult to effectively mend and set the hook. I generally tell my clients to keep their rod tip at least three feet off the water’s surface.
Here’s a simple drill to help you understand and visualize how improper rod tip position on the water can negatively effect and decrease the length of your drag-free drift. Lay out a nice 30+ foot cast on the water. Make sure you stop your rod tip high above the water (a good 4 feet). Watch your drift for a few seconds, and then
Read More »Still a Few Spots Open For Abaco Lodge, March 1-6, 2018
By Louis Cahill
Experience one of the coolest saltwater fisheries anywhere.
Hosting this trip to Abaco Lodge is one of the highlights of my year. Abaco is such a unique fishery and a cool experience, I look forward to it all season. I always enjoy sharing the island and its great fishing with new anglers. The 2018 South Andros Bonefish Schools sold out in days but there are still a few spots open for Abaco, March 1-6, 2018. This is a great opportunity for a tropical getaway and some dynamite flats fishing.
Here are a few things that make Abaco a great choice.
Consistent fishing
All saltwater fishing is condition-dependent but Abaco has always treated us well. When conditions are good you tend to see quality bonefish in smaller schools. That means that you are more likely to get shots at 200 fish, for example, in 20 schools of 10, rather than 2 schools of 100.
Variety
Abaco is a diverse fishery. The unique character of the Marles offers lots of opportunities to fish in different types of water. If you are looking for a challenge, the ocean side is where you can hunt colossal bones. If you want to take it up yet another notch, Abaco has legitimate permit and tarpon fishing for the adventurous.
The absolute best accommodations
Abaco Lodge is extremely comfortable and well appointed without being the least bit stuffy. It’s a fun, relaxed atmosphere with amazing meals and drinks and the friendliest staff dedicated to your every need. The beautiful grounds, pool, convenient shopping and beach make it the perfect trip to enjoy with a non-fishing spouse.
March is perfect timing
March is a great time to visit Abaco. The climate there is a bit cooler than some of the other islands so the temps are perfect. It’s a great break from cold weather at home. The fishing is heating up and the bugs aren’t bad. It’s basically paradise.
I hope you will consider joining the group at Abaco Lodge this March. It’s a decision you will not forget. Just ask a few of the anglers who have.
“What and incredible fishery….
Read More »Sunday Classic / Treat your sunglasses as though your vision depends upon them
YOUR ROD, REEL AND LINE MAY BE THE ONLY PIECES OF GEAR MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOUR SUNGLASSES.
On most days I’d rather have the wrong fly than the wrong glasses. They are not only crucial for sight fishing and reading water but make wading safer and the whole fishing experience more pleasant.
A good pair of polarized sunglasses are not only essential but expensive, too. Their effectiveness can be seriously compromised by scratches, delamination, and unnecessary wear or damage. It makes sense to take good care of them.
Still, not everything about caring for your sunglasses is intuitive. I’ve worn glasses my whole life and recently found that I was damaging my sunglasses by washing them with soap and water, a practice I assumed was the best way to clean them. Reached out to my buddy Peter Crow at Smith Optics for some advice, and he provided me with some good common sense information to share with you.
Read More »Saturday Shoutout / Bye-Bye Bristol Bay
ONCE AGAIN WE ARE AT THE THRESHOLD OF DISASTER IN ALASKA’S BRISTOL BAY
I have very little that’s positive to say about this. If you care at all about wild salmon, and for that matter the food chain on which we all depend for life, you should watch this video on the American Angler site. You should also visit http://www.savebristolbay.org and get involved.
EPA REVERSES SALMON PROTECTION FOR BRISTOL BAY
Read More »New Fly Lines From RIO
Some especially nice offerings in the new RIO fly lines.
I am particularly excited about the new Flats Pro saltwater lines. I’ve been fishing the stealth tip version and i love it. Simon Gawesworth shows off the different options and talks about the design and performance, and you can read my full review of that line for more details.
There are also the highly anticipated Scandi 3D, multi-density lines for the spey caster. Multi-density Scandi lines have been available, and very popular in Europe for some time. These lines offer the best of both worlds in casting and swinging. There’s even a 3D version of the single hand spey.
WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ALL THE DETAILS ABOUT THE NEW RIO FLY LINES.
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