The Show Issue 2016

the buzz on the fly-fishing biz ®

INSIDE THE

SHOW 2016 ISSUE

Simms and the Bass World | Loving and Hating Competitive Fly Fishing | Sage Launches the “X” | The State of the U.S. Fly Market | Follow-Ups on Magnuson-Stevens... And More June 2016 AnglingTrade.com

FISH THE

TRUTH NEW LEADER AND TIPPET THE STRONGEST STRAIGHT TENSILE AND WET KNOT STRENGTHS IN THE INDUSTRY. PERIOD.

UP TO 35% STRONGER | 100% MORE HONEST* *REMEMBER X SIZES? SO DO WE. OUR NEW LEADER AND TIPPET MATERIALS FEATURE ACCURATE BREAKING STRENGTHS AND TRUE-TO-SPEC X SIZES, MEANING OUR 5X REALLY IS 5X.

scientificanglers.com | #fishthetruth

the buzz on the flyfishing biz

CONTENTS

®

Features

Departments

Editor

36 F LY- F I S H I N G COMPETITIONS: LOVE O R H AT E ?

6 EDITOR’S COLUMN

Managing Editor

Rank amateur

Kirk Deeter kirk@anglingtrade.com

Tim Romano tim@anglingtrade.com

Art Director

Pretender

Tara Brouwer tara@shovelcreative.com shovelcreative.com

Editor-at-Large Does it Really Have to Be That Scary?

A fresh spin on an old debate. (Plus a sidebar on a new competition format that might make everyone happy.)

By Kirk Deeter

Geoff Mueller

Copy Editors Mabon Childs, Sarah Deeter

By Marshall Bissett

8 CURRENTS

Contributing Editors

44 S I M M S A N D B A S S

The latest news from the fly-fishing industry, including reactions to the latest AFFTA Retailer Survey.

Tom Bie Ben Romans Steven B. Schweitzer Greg Vincent

50 C O U N T E R P O I N T: TRCP Responds on the Morris-Deal Report.

By Whit Fosburgh

Five years ago, an iconic fly-fishing brand set out to become an iconic bass-fishing brand.

How’s that working out?

By Shauna Stephenson

52 O P I N I O N More reasons to care about MagnusonStevens.

By Charles Witek

58 X M A R K S T H E S P O T

Photos unless noted by Tim Romano Angling Trade is printed twice a year, supplemented with bimonthly E-Newsletters by Angling Trade, LLC. Author and photographic submissions should be sent electronically to editor@anglingtrade.com.

Angling Trade is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and/ or photo submissions. We ask that contributors send formal queries in advance of submissions. For editorial guidelines and calendar, please contact the editor via E-mail.

Printed in the U.S.A.

62 B A C K C A S T

Advertising Contact: Tim Romano Telephone: 303-495-3967 Fax: 303-495-2454 tim@anglingtrade.com

A comprehensive, straight-shot review on the latest rod offering from Sage. Is it going to be a sales magnet for shops? We think so.

New Rod Lines

By Kirk Deeter

By Geoff Mueller

Street Address: 3055 24th Street Boulder, CO 80304 AnglingTrade.com

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Mail Address: PO Box 17487 Boulder, CO 80308

3

INTRODUCING THE X ROD COMMAND THE WATER

s a g e fl y fi s h . c o m

E D I TO R ’ S C O L U M N

WHY DOES EVERYTHING HAVE TO BE SO SCARY?

A couple years ago, I got a call from a producer of “Naked and Afraid.”

Yeah, it made me laugh too.

Apparently, he’d seen a story I wrote for WIRED magazine, where I canoed a stretch of the Cumberland River in Tennessee and Kentucky, by myself, camping for a couple nights, and testing “techie” gear along the way.

It really wasn’t that “extreme” of a trip. Truth is, I portaged around any rapids that were more than class II. At night, I sat in a comfortable chair, satellite-texted my wife, read a book, and sipped a bit of moonshine. I didn’t eat much, because I didn’t catch much (that I wanted to eat), so as soon as I hauled out, I made a beeline to Kentucky Fried Chicken.

I politely told this producer, “Dude, you don’t understand. I make 90 percent of AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

my living by informing people exactly

6

how NOT to find themselves underclothed, or feel at all scared when they

It now seems that everything has to “almost kill you” to have any media legs. I’m sorry, but where, along the line, did it become boring for someone to have their shit in one bag? I mean, isn’t that kinda why some of the companies in this magazine make things like GORETex waders, and fly rods that can toss a perfectly balanced fly line 80 feet… or coolers that hold ice for several days, thermal woollies, and sun protection?

Trust me, I get the “generational” thing, but I’m a little tired of “pavement walker” magazine editors and television producers who live in Brooklyn dictating the guidelines for outdoor “survival” in the modern era. Not that they are wusses. I’m always more afraid when I ride the New York City subway these days than I am when I’m fishing a river in bear country.

out writing stories and fly fishing, something has gone terribly wrong.”

I went on to explain that the most dangerous animal in the world is actually the mosquito. I also explained that I have been to many of the jungle places that Mr. Wade has chased “Monster Fish” in, and I might be crazy, but I can tell you that when a body with no face is found floating in a Bolivian river in the heart of booger-sugar country, my first hunch wouldn’t be that a fish ate that person’s face off.

Now we have “Fish or Die” and I actually wish those guys the very best because I like them, and I think they’re good for the sport. I wouldn’t have given them all the ink I have in various media outlets over the years if I didn’t genuinely feel that way. Those guys can actually fish! I think they’re going

I just don’t like the outdoors treated like some scary realm that forces you to put your life on the line whenever you experience it. I recently went to talk to a 5th grade class, and I spent an hour showing the kids awesome slides on a big screen—shots taken out of airplanes flying over the Alaskan Bush, or from the jungles in South America, and the flats in the Bahamas, and so on, and so on. And the point was that WRITING… stuff I started learning in my 5th grade composition class, has led me on all these cool adventures to places I never imagined I would see when I was a young boy.

So after that, it’s question time, and I call on the first hand that shoots up at the back of the classroom. And what do you suppose the question was?

to do well, and put a great spin on fly fishing (pun intended) for a whole new audience to see and experience. And I think that’s absolutely fantastic.

I just hope that after they film episodes in the jungle in South America, if they happen to fly back through Miami, they don’t take a wrong turn out of the airport. Because the truth is, that would be the most dangerous part of the trip.

Better you than me, boys. I’m on the “lodge plan” now. You keep pushing, and charging, and most of all, having fun.

Because the moral of the story is that people can have fun in different ways, seeking thrills or in the lap of luxury... fully clothed, and, well, of course,

are experiencing the great outdoors.

If I’m ever naked or afraid when I’m

Thanks, Jeremy Wade. Nice work.

“How many times have you thought the fish you were trying to catch was going to kill you?”

unclothed. And if the fun happens to involve a little fly fishing, it’s all good.

Actually, it’s great.

FINATIC

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

© Bryan Gregson Photography

7

CURRENTS

Congrats to AL Q!

Survey SAYS…

European model for fly fishing in this country?) so, the total size of the market appears, at least to us, to be relatively stable.

The survey pins the total number of fly-fishing participants in the United

The American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) has just released its Fly Fishing Retailer Survey. The information for this report was collected through an online survey of AFFTA member/retailers conducted by Florida-based Southwick Associates, an independent market research and economics firm specializing in the Those of you who know Al Quattrocchi,

hunting, shooting, sport fishing, and

and know what a genuinely good guy

outdoor recreation markets. Over 230

he is, how much he has given to fly fishing… well you’ll know that this is not a fluke at all. Al Q reports having caught two pending fly world records while fishing with his good friend and IGFA record holder, Dr. John Whitaker. Both

AFFTA surveys. We’ve poured through the findings, and think that it gives a pretty good reflection of where things stand now.

A Calico Bass on 12-pound tippet,

To view the full survey, you need to be

weighed 9.23 pounds, (largest recorded

an AFFTA member, and as such, you can

on fly, existing record is 5.4) using a

access the full report. Angling Trade has

Al Q sculpin fly. Also a white sea bass

permission to highlight several of the

on 20-pound tippet weighed in at 36

findings here, and comment on what we

pounds (existing record is 18.2).

think those findings represent.

Wrote Q: “Pretty crazy stuff to get two

The survey estimates the size of the

sight casted using an old Loomis 10/11 and Seamster reel loaded with Cortland Liquid Crystal clear intermediate on an AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

is a notable increase over previous

on the same day!

back to back. The white sea bass was

8

dealers completed the survey, which

Al Q-tied brown Shady Lady Squid fleye.

I wanted to use this outfit to honor a

trade to be $815 million, which seems like a jump over the past surveys that have put the market between $650 and $700 million; however, this survey factors in guiding as a source of

couple of old buddies that I always looked

income. Guiding and outfitting actually

up to, in fact the outfit was my friend Dr.

represented the largest segment of

Jerry Pierce’s who just retired from fly

the market at 16% (are we headed

fishing and was one of my mentors.”

more and more toward a pay-to-play,

States to be 4.5 million. Before you get excited and launch your E-magazine or new rod company based on that, realize that includes one-shot wonders.

Angling Trade estimates the population of anglers who actually buy things and participate on a fairly regular basis to be closer to 1-1.5 million, and two of the largest manufacturers (the only two we checked with) in this space concur with that assessment.

continued on next page...

Rise to the top of the fly fishing world...

www.jrharrisphoto.com

The AFFTA Dealer Summit October 16-19, 2016 Bozeman, Montana Registration opens August 1 “ Hands down the best business seminar I’ve ever been to. We’ll be back.”

— Steve Schmidt, Western Rivers Flyfisher

“ We received knowledge we can implement tomorrow!”

— Steve McLaughlin, Front Range Anglers

“ I have so many good ideas from the Dealer Summit, I don’t know what to act on first!”

Join AFFTA in Bozeman, Montana for educational hands-on seminars and roundtable discussions to benefit your business including marketing, advertising, merchandising and some of the best fishing in the West during the most beautiful and productive seasons of the year.

— David Leinweber, Angler’s Covey

For more information, visit: www.affta.org

CURRENTS

Good news for Far Bank: In terms of popular rod brands, Sage came in first, and Redington tied for second with Orvis.

Company and People News

concept for fly reel design. The

R.L. Winston Rod Company Acquires

quality approach in all of its product

Bauer Fly Reels

company continues with this precision development and design.”

The Fly Shop Hires Eric Esch

The largest contingent of fly dealers in America (28.9 percent) are in the Rocky Mountains. Those dealers also sell more fishing licenses than in other regions.

Most fly shops report gross income between 500-$750,000. Fewer than

Winston Rod Company in Twin

two percent report gross sales of $3

Bridges, Montana, recently acquired

million or more.

Bauer Premium Reel Company in Ashland, Oregon. “There are a lot

“The 2015 Dealer Survey is another

of very good fly reels,” said Winston

example of how AFFTA is helping

Chairman and Owner, David Ondaatje,

to move the business of fly fishing

“but there is something extraordinary

forward. This survey provides retailers

about Bauer that made us want to be

and manufacturers invaluable

more involved over the long term… a

data regarding the health, general performance and long-term direction of our sport and industry. All members of AFFTA will find this survey and its results to be invaluable as we plan our business for 2016 and beyond,” stated AFFTA Chairman Tucker Ladd.

"I always find surveys that track the fly fishing industry to be interesting, and this (effort) seems more in line with what we (Far Bank) have tracked in recent years," said Travis Campbell, CEO of Far Bank

fly-fishing travel specialist. Ersch brings a wealth of field-gained fly fishing experience having fished, guided and

leading-edge technology.”

managed some of the most famous

Bauer Premium Fly Reels was founded

water experience spans decades, and

in 1995 by Jon Bauer after designing

includes the Kola Peninsula of Russia,

one of the first large arbor fly reels made

the Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska and

in the USA. Previously, Jon had driven

Panama. Eric managed Big Ku Lodge

race cars for Porsche and Ford, winning

in Alaska for the past two seasons, and

several major events including the 1980

prior to that was manager of Paradise

fishing lodges in the world. His on-the-

Trans-Am Championship.

Lodge in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Said Bauer: “I did a lot of design and

Atlanta Will Host 2017 Fly

development work when I was racing.

You develop widgets all the time,

FIshing Show

Greater Atlanta, the ninth largest

for new ways to make your car better

population center in the U.S, will play

and faster. Starting in 1994, as an avid

host to one of the 2017 editions of

questions, but by and large, it gives

fly fisherman, I took the same approach

the Fly Fishing Show™, announced

us a pretty good impression of where

in designing innovative fly reels. Since

president and CEO Ben Furimsky.

things stand. We are obviously happy

I came from a different sport, (racing

to see where some of our brands are

not fly fishing), I approached fly reel

The Atlanta Fly Fishing Show is

positioned in the mix. I also find it

design differently. By applying principles

scheduled for Feb. 3 and 4. The Georgia

interesting to see how high the guide

of basic physics to the design and

show dates will replace the North

and outfitter category is in the listing

incorporating precision manufacturing,

Carolina show, said Furimsky, adding,

of revenue sources."

I was able to produce a totally new

“It is unfortunate that we have a limited

of areas where I still have some

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

announced it has hired Eric Ersch as a

because that’s how you win – you look

Enterprises. "There are a couple

10

beautiful product, good people and

The Fly Shop (Redding, Calif.)

continued on next page...

CAPT. SHANE SMITH

They just keep coming...

The awards, that is.

IFTD Best of Show Overall, IFTD Best Saltwater Fly Rod, Gray’s Best, Field & Stream Best of the Best, American Angler Gear of the Year, Yellowstone Angler 8-weight Shootout, Fly Fisherman Best Saltwater Fly Rod, Fly Rod & Reel Kudos Award, and so many more… Thank you all, we’re honored to receive the recognition.

Scott Fly Rod Company

|

2 3 5 5 A i r P a r k Wa y, M o n t r o s e , C o l o r a d o 8 1 4 0 1

|

970-249-3180

|

scottflyrod.com

CURRENTS

us the room for a watercraft area showcasing both fresh and saltwater boats designed for fly fishing including inflatables, kayaks, center consoles, flats skiffs, drift boats and Jon boats,” said Furimsky.

In addition to approximately 100 new product and vendor exhibits, the Atlanta Fly Fishing Show will feature some 60 demonstrations, fly-casting and fly-tying seminars, films, tackle and gear each day all pointed at southeastern states’

Atlanta will host The 2017 Fly Fishing Show

number of show and travel weekends to

was formerly called the Gwinnett Center.

work with and the demand to do Atlanta was just too great.”

“Atlanta is an ideal show location, within hours of fly-fishing venues from native

The Fly Fishing Show will be held at

trout streams to saltwater flats,” said

Infinite Energy Center, 6400 Sugarloaf

Furimsky. “Additionally, the expanded

Parkway, in suburban Duluth. The site

site at Infinite Energy Center gives

anglers. Exhibitor booths will include tackle manufacturers and retailers, rods, reels, boots, waders, vests and other accessories; technical clothing, lodges, overseas and domestic resorts, guide services and conservation organizations.

The two-day show is expected to draw fly-fishers – expert and novice – from North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida and throughout Georgia for demonstrations, classes and seminars by fly-fishing notables including Lefty Kreh, Bob Clouser and Gary Borger.

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers calls for ‘Stream Access Now’

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

For anglers, access to streams and

14

waterways is the most important factor in our participation in—and the perpetuation of—our outdoor traditions.

Our access opportunities, however, are far from guaranteed. Laws governing

continued on next page...

CURRENTS

ownership of streambeds vary widely

and organizations that contribute to

from state to state, some favoring public

expanding U.S. exports. Since 1961,

use and others favoring exclusivity.

nearly 2,800 companies have received

Well-moneyed efforts to further lock out

the E Award recognition.

everyday anglers from public rivers are advancing, with sportsmen experiencing

Fishpond’s LeCoq Honored

several major losses in recent years.

Until now, no national sportsmen’s group has tackled the issue of stream access.

At ICAST/IFTD, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers will be launching a national campaign, Stream Access Now. They will not only be engaging and informing

Recognized by Commerce Secretary Pritzker as the first Montana firm ever to receive “E” Award

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker made a point to recognize Simms. “Today, we honor companies like Simms Fishing Products—the

anglers and other sportsmen about the

first-ever Montana company to receive

issue; they will also combat the greatest

an E Award,” said Secretary Pritzker.

threats to access, state by state.

“The recipients being honored today demonstrate the opportunity inherent

Alongside some of the most powerful

in selling Made-in-America products

brands in the angling industry, BHA is

to the broad customer base that exists

launching a crowdfunding campaign to

outside our borders. Their success

raise money and awareness around the

contributes to growth, job creation,

issue of stream access. This will enable

competitiveness, and the success of the

us to uphold, enhance and expand

American economy.”

access to flowing waters – our birthright as Americans.

vision to build premium quality fishing and outdoor gear, using profits and shared passions of their dedicated consumers to support water, fish and habitat conservation efforts. Last month, Le Coq was recognized for his commitment and contributions to the environment as one of four nominees for the annual Pegasus Foundation Wings award.

Working on behalf of animals, the goal

To learn more and join the battle, visit

and Senior Director, Employee &

of the Pegasus Foundation is to “Give

www.streamaccessnow.com.

Community Engagement, Diane Bristol,

Great Ideas Wings” through focused

were on hand to accept the award from

grants and recognition of outstanding

the Secretary.

individuals and programs. The third annual Pegasus Wings Award ceremony

“Over the last 25 plus years, we have

will recognize extraordinary people

made a concerted effort to find the

who have made a significant difference

level Export Award

best partners to help us build our

for animal protection. 2015 nominees

Simms Fishing Products was one of 123

brand internationally,” Bristol said.

were recognized at a gala event in

“We have a deep appreciation for the

nationwide companies and organizations

Washington, D.C. at the Cosmos Club,

relationships we’ve built and the efforts

to receive the President’s E Award for

founded by John Wesley Powell in 1878.

they’ve made to represent us.”

Simms Recognized with Presidential-

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

founded the brand Fishpond with a

Sales Manager, Tim Malyurek,

Accolades

16

Simms Fishing Products International

Nearly 20 years ago, John Le Coq

exporting excellence during a May 16

“As both a business owner and an avid

ceremony in Washington, D.C. This is

The President’s E Award was created

angler, water and habitat conservation

the first time that a Montana-based firm

by President John F. Kennedy in

is paramount to everything I do.

has received the award.

1961 to recognize persons, firms,

I’ve had the privilege to work with

continued on next page...

WET KNOT STRENGTH–

STRONGER AT

ORVIS.COM/SUPERSTRONGPLUS

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

IT TOOK US 18 YEARS TO FIND A BETTER TIPPET MATERIAL THAN SUPER STRONG. WE FOUND IT, AND WE HAVE THE INDEPENDENT LAB TESTS AND FIELD TESTS TO PROVE IT. SUPERIOR ABRASION RESISTANCE, WET KNOT STRENGTH, AND IMPROVED PERFORMANCE— 45% STRONGER IN 4X.

17

CURRENTS

NGOs, governments, science-based

Affordable impulse items for anglers of all types & budgets

Books & DVDs

environment and species diversity,” says Le Coq. “I want to bring more DVD: $24 .99 srp

compassion to the table when it comes to wildlife issues, especially for states like Colorado that depend heavily on outdoor recreation dollars.”

Softcover: $24.99

make balanced decisions about the

Softcover: $16.99

organizations and businesses to help

Enamel Mug set of 6 $72.00 srp

srp $12 each

Le Coq regularly travels to Washington to speak about conservation. Most recently he has been meeting with several NGOs and individuals to DVD: $29 .95 srp

discuss predator-management issues, and importantly, creative funding mechanisms to be sure that non-game species across the country remain

ANGLER’S BOOK SUPPLY 800.260.3869

a priority. “As a CEO of an outdoor recreation company, and as an American

Featuring the very best books, dvds, calendars & gifts that fly-fishing has to offer.

who cares deeply about our natural resources, I know I need to make a stand for something much larger than the company I have created,” adds Le Coq. “My business must become a voice to communicate the principals of change that I feel and that are paramount to the longevity of species and diversity.”

AFFTA Awards Washington, D.C. Conservation Leaders

www.anglersbooksupply.com Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and White

clean water and healthy fish habitat,”

House senior advisor Brian Deese.

said Ben Bulis, president of the

AFFTA president Ben Bulis, along

Bozeman, Montana-based American Fly

with AFFTA members Simms Fishing

Fishing Trade Association.

Products, The Boat Company and AC Beane Outdoors were on hand to

“We are attentive to opportunities

present the awards.

to protect clean water for fish and fishermen, and appreciate all that

“Fishermen and our $646-billion outdoor recreation industry depend on

Washington, D.C. – The American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) held AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

a Capitol Hill reception last night to

18

celebrate champions for clean water, fish habitat and the outdoor industry.

Earlier in the week, AFFTA awarded four conservation leaders including Senator John Tester (D-MT), Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Senator

continued on next page...

EVERYTHINGOUTDOOR

OPEN AIR DEMO AUGUST 2, 2016 SUMMER MARKET AUGUST 3-6, 2016

SALT PALACE CONVENTION CENTER, SALT LAKE CITY, UT

REGISTER TODAY OUTDOORRETAILER.COM

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Save the Date!

19

CURRENTS

leaders in Congress and the White

off, Redington, launched its inaugural

House are doing to protect our outdoor

Home Waters events on the Deschutes

heritage and sporting traditions.”

River May 21st and more events have continued into the summer.

Product News BUFF UV Arm Sleeves

AFFTA is also closely watching public debate around potential conservation of the Canyons and Seamounts area of the Atlantic Ocean—off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts—and supports a monument designation for the area should access for recreational fishing be permitted. This unique ocean ecosystem supports a wide variety of

“Home Waters Co-Op is a celebration

For 2017 BUFF is launching a non-

fish and coral species.

of shared experiences on the water.

greasy alternative to sunscreen.

It’s about evening hatches, cold beers,

Available in three sizes, the new UV

campfire stories, and fishing with our

Arm Sleeves feature highly breathable

Redington/Sage Hit the Road to Home Waters

community,” said Redington brand

Continuing to lead the push to engage

hit the water and engage with anglers

more anglers both on the water and

across the country.”

manager Josh Prestin. “We’re excited to

polyester UPF 45+ fabric that blocks UV rays, wicks moisture, dries quickly and stays cool. The low profile design won’t impede while casting or reeling. The elastic upper with engineered silicon grip holds the sleeve comfortably in

UNI PRODUCTS J.G. Cote Inc. 1004 Princippale Ste-Melanie QC. Canada JOK 3AO Tel: 450-889-8054 Toll-Free: 1-877-889-8054 Fax: 450-889-5887 Email: info@uniproducts.com

NEW FROM UNI UNI-GloFloss (Glow in the dark) Light Blue

place for a clean, streamlined fit and stretch flatlock seams eliminate chafing.

They pack up small so anglers can keep a pair in the boat, another in a tackle box and one stashed in their waders.

The UV Arm Sleeves come in six fishing styles. Additionally, there are four styles of new Coastal UV Arm Sleeves that include extended back-of-hand protection and three UV Arm Sleeves

UNI-Thread 8/0 Fluorescent Green Waxed or Unwaxed on spools of 50 or 200 yds

with Insect Shield. MSRP: $25 for UV Arm Sleeves. Coastal Sleeves and Insect Shield prices slightly higher.

Gogal Publishing announces the

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

release of Stream Map USA -

20

UNI-GloFloss (Glow in the dark) Light Green Look to UNI for the best in spooled fly-tying materials!

www. uniproducts .com

Mountain West

Imagine being able to instantly find even the most obscure river, lake, stream or pond by simply typing its name, then immediately getting turn-by-turn

continued on next page...

THE RIGHT LINE

RIOPRODUCTS.COM

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

FOR EVERY FISH.

21

CURRENTS

driving directions right to that water.

“Go” for turn-by-turn driving directions

Gogal Publishing announces the release

right to that spot.

of Stream Map USA - Mountain West expanding Gogal’s signature brand

Upon arrival, Stream Map USA works

to 33 states with complete watershed

like a handheld GPS showing your

maps of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming,

location and following you as you travel

Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and

on the water. Along the way, you can

New Mexico.

save additional waypoints and even add your own notes with GPS accuracy.

Stream Map USA is a searchable,

This is ideal for marking fishing holes,

color-coded river, lake and stream map

campsites, tree stands, scenic locations,

displayed over your choice of roadmaps,

or just about anywhere you may want to

satellite images, and high-resolution

find again in the field.

topographic maps. You can search for any water across the entire region or

To get back to any waypoint, simply

limit your search by state or even search

choose it from your waypoints list,

an individual county. Once you locate a

tap the “Target” button, and then use

water destination, simple touch the map

the app’s built-in navigation compass

near a road to add a waypoint and tap

to point the way and count down the

continued on next page...

“We d on’t attra ct fly just an we cr eate glers; them .”

March 11 & 12, 2017 www.txflyfishingfestival.org • brew tastings (Texas) • extensive programs for women and children • wine tastings (Virginia)

April 8 & 9, 2017 www.vaflyfishingfestival.org

• casting and fly-tying instruction

p: Tim Romano

Our 50 years of innovation has helped us perfect what really matters — amplifying the thrill of human experience. Our ChromaPop™ lenses are the most advanced polarized lenses in the world, shown here in the Dockside. See true color and razor sharp definition, wherever the river takes you.

The experience is everything.™

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Once upon a hell of a time.

23

CURRENTS

distance right to that spot. It’s just like geocaching. Stream Map USA includes a field navigation compass that displays your GPS coordinates, compass heading, altitude and speed of travel, along with a red direction of travel arrow

Fine Rod Components and Cases Providing innovative solutions to the fishing rod industry since 1968

that points directly to your “Targeted” destination and it even works without phone service.

Each river, lake and stream is uniquely colored to set it apart from its tributaries. This eliminates the need to carefully read stream labels while tracing the blue lines to follow a stream. You simply follow the colored line from the

*Engraving options avalible

* Natural and Black Pearl finishes also available in Micro sizes

stream’s headwaters to its mouth. As a planning and safety tool, Stream Map USA includes access to current water

TM

A REPUTATION YOU CAN BUILD ON

conditions through the US Geological Survey’s National Water Information Service. Each stream monitoring station is highlighted on the map and you simply tap its gage icon to see current stream height, water flow, and other important information before you travel.

“We wanted to step away from traditional mapping and create a 21st century map of America’s watersheds

includes free updates and we don’t embed obnoxious advertising.”

You can view the entire Gogal Publishing catalogue online at www.

StreamMapUSA.com.

Orvis Launches US-Made Mirage Reel

harnessing the power of digital mapping, GPS technology, and the smartphone,” said author and company president, Mike Gogal. “With the release of Stream Map USA, we think we’ve done just that!”

Five editions of Stream Map USA AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

covering 33 states are currently available

24

on the App Store for $8.99 each. When asked about plans for Android, Mike Gogal said, “ We’re hoping to have the entire lower 48 states mapped by

The big push for Orvis this year is going

year’s end for both iOS and Android

to focus on two reel models and a line

users. Most importantly, our price always

of accessories. We are most intrigued

continued on next page...

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

25

CURRENTS

FEATURES Rod Weights: 10-foot 3, 4 and 5wt.

Action: Medium Grip: Cigar with 2” extension Sections: 4 Guides: Hard chrome snake ‘Shooting Guides’ and nano-lite stripping guides Reel Seat: Downlocking Nickel Silver with burled wood insert Storage: Premium graphite rod tube with embroidered logo rod sock Suggested Retail Price: $845

Winston's Super 10 Rods

about the American-made reboot of

10-foot models (3, 4 and 5wt.). Each

its Mirage reel. This one is going to

has been specifically designed for

sell for $649 for a size 5, but it’s going

high sticking and European style

to feature a number of Cadillac design

nymph fishing. The dynamic Boron III

elements that warrant that price.

technology, combined with a longer

Examples: 330-degree drag adjustment

length, progressive medium action and

with 27 detents (easy to access and

finely-tuned rod characteristics, provides

operate, using a patent-pending ball-

anglers with precise, delicate control of

and-ramp design; Type III military-spec.

line, leader and fly placement. The new

anodization (the best level available for

Boron III X Super 10 rods were designed

scratch and corrosion resistance); and

with the versatility to handle a range of

hardened steel clickers and plate. This

technical nymph techniques, double

one is going to be bombproof.

nymphs, weighted nymphs, strike indicators and light streamers. The rods

On the other end of the pricing spectrum, Orvis is launching a new model under the familiar Battenkill Disc Reel name, bargain priced at $139 for a size III. Orvis will also be launching their own branded aluminum snips for $79, AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

and pliers for $189.

26

feature their popular new “Shooting Guides,” with a new specialized down locking reel seat for optimum weight distribution and a 2˝ cork extension on the grip to reduce arm fatigue.

HIGHLIGHTS

American consumers can help protect Bristol Bay when buying wild sockeye salmon this summer.

Bristol Bay, Alaska watershed benefits from Pride of Bristol Bay partnership

Pride of Bristol Bay has begun accepting online reservations for its Buying Club, delivering sustainable Bristol Bay sockeye direct to consumers and chefs in communities across the country including Hailey, Ketchum and Boise, Idaho; Jackson, Wyo; Burlington and Warren, Vt; Brunswick, Rockland, Vinalhaven and Northhaven, Maine;

Advanced Boron III TechnologySensitive

and Orleans and Westport, Mass. The

tip to detect subtle takesStronger mid-

company, founded by fisherman Matt

Rod Series

section for accurate fly placementStrong

Luck in 2015, will donate 10 percent

lower half to control larger fish 2” cork

of all profits to Trout Unlimited’s Save

This new mini series of specialized

extension reduces arm fatigue in high-

Bristol Bay program. The Save Bristol

nymphing fly rods consists of three

stick and extended reach situations

Bay program is aimed at protecting

Winston Launches Nymph-Specific

continued on next page...

B A P T I S M S D O N ’ T TA K E P L A C E I N FA CT O R I E S . T H E Y B E LO N G T O T H E WAT E R .

F U L L I M M E R S I O N I N A B E L I E F SY ST E M T H AT S AY S A F L AW L E S S D R I F T W I L L R A I S E T H E L A R G E S T B R O W N . FA I T H T H AT W I N D W I L L S U B S I D E . T H U N D E R W I L L F I Z Z L E . A N D H I G H LY- C O N S I D E R E D G E A R W I L L S E E Y O U C O M F O R TA B LY T H R O U G H T H E B E AT- D O W N . R I V E R S A R E W H E R E W E R E C A L I B R AT E A N D C O N N E CT. T H E Y ’ R E W H AT W E M A K E O F T H E M . A N D T H E Y I N S P I R E W H AT W E M A K E . S O I T ’ S N O S U R P R I S E T H E W O R L D ’ S B E ST WA D E R S A R E H A N D C R A F T E D B Y A N G L E R S . B E C A U S E I T TA K E S O N E T O K N OW W H E N T H E Y ’ R E R I G H T.

# WADERMAKERS

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

SIMMSFISHING.COM

C L AY K R U L L , L E A D C U T T E R ,

WA D E R

M A K E R

MAKING THE WORLD’S BEST WADERS IS 99% INSPIRATION.

27

CURRENTS

“MOJO MUD“ is now

Bristol Bay, Alaska’s pristine watershed

To learn more about Pride of Bristol

and wild salmon populations from the

Bay and reserve a share of sustainable

Pebble Mine; a proposed open-pit mine

Britsol Bay, Alaska sockeye, visit: www.

in the headwaters of Bristol Bay’s most

prideofbristolbay.com For those who

productive salmon rivers. This unique

do not live in the above communities,

partnership allows consumers in the

Pride of Bristol Bay’s online ordering

lower 48 to buy wild Alaska sockeye

and national home delivery program

salmon direct from fishermen, while

commences September 15, 2016.

also helping protect the world’s largest sockeye salmon fishery. In response to Pride of Bristol Bay’s pledge to support the Save Bristol Bay program, Trout Unlimited’s Alaska Program released the following statement: “Trout Unlimited is thrilled to partner

Habitat USGS Studies the Impact of

Insecticides on Northwestern

JP’S BROWN* NYMPHING MUD

The same reuseable tungsten putty with a different name - still environmentally friendly, easy to use, and the choice of the pros.

Clackamas County Streams

with Pride of Bristol Bay to bring a little bit of Bristol Bay into the homes

15353 E. Hinsdale Circle, Unit F Centennial, Colorado 80112 www.anglersaccessories.com

and onto the grills of salmon lovers across the country. “Bristol Bay’s rich fishing history and famous salmon runs

A new study by the U.S. Geological

have captured the hearts of Americans

Survey, published today in the Journal

around the country, including President

of Environmental Monitoring and

Obama who visited Bristol Bay last fall.

By purchasing their salmon from Pride of Bristol Bay, consumers can feel good about where their salmon comes from while also supporting critical work to ensure that this national treasure is around for future generations to use and enjoy. Buying Bristol Bay sockeye salmon sends a strong message that wild salmon matter to Americans. It’s an investment in our nation’s health and in the cold, clean rivers that wild salmon require. While progress has been made to protect this world-class fishery, we still have more work to do. Luckily, eating Bristol Bay sockeye is one easy and

Assessment, found high concentrations of commonly used insecticides in streams running through the highly urbanized portion of Clackamas County.

The levels found in streams flowing through the greater Portland metropolitan area during a September 2013 storm were above U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

from the areas where it was applied through storm drainage systems to streams. When even small amounts of this chemical are mobilized, beneficial insects may be affected when the sediments and associated chemical settle out in streams.

“Because aquatic insects provide food for fish, birds and other wildlife, it is

benchmarks to protect aquatic

critical to better understand the full

life. The active ingredients of the

impact from this insecticide, including

insecticides detected included the

whether it is entering the food chain,”

chemicals bifenthrin, fipronil, malathion,

said Kurt Carpenter, USGS hydrologist

breakdown products of DDT, and others.

and co-lead on the study. “The strong negative effect of bifenthrin on aquatic

delicious way supporters in the Lower

28

303-690-0477

*Also available in gray

48 can help. Pride of Bristol Bay’s Buying

The chemical appearing to cause the

invertebrates seen in our study is

Club program is a great way to make

most toxicity was bifenthrin, a broad-

consistent with national USGS findings

Bristol Bay sockeye more accessible

spectrum insecticide used to kill insect

that in urban streams, of the many

to Americans and encourage people

pests around homes and businesses.

contaminants examined, bifenthrin

to vote with their forks for Bristol Bay’s

Bifenthrin attaches tightly to sediments

in bed sediments was the single best

fishery and communities.”

contained in stormwater, traveling

predictor of observed toxicity.”

continued on next page...

CURRENTS

More than 600 products contain

duplication of effort was avoided, and

some of the most innovative community-

bifenthrin; its high use and persistence

the quality of the final product was

based project proposals that are making

in the environment result in its frequent

substantially increased.”

a difference for native trout conservation across the western U.S.”

detection. Bifenthrin was detected in all five stormwater outfalls sampled, and 73 percent of streams sampled during the storm, sometimes at levels well above EPA benchmarks. Seventy-one

Western Native Trout Initiative Offers Funding Opportunities for Worthy Trout Projects

The 2016 Small Grants Program is supported by generous donations from project partners at Bass Pro Shops,

percent of streams contained bifenthrin

Orvis, and Blue Valley Ranch. The full

in streambed sediments at levels likely

RFP can be found here:

to affect aquatic insects. http://www.westernnativetrout.org/ Streams with no or low levels of bifenthrin in their sediment had significantly more aquatic insects such as mayflies, caddisflies and stoneflies than streams with high concentrations of bifenthrin. Streams with high

The Western Native Trout Initiative (WNTI) and its partners are once again offering opportunities for community organizations to tap into dollars to restore or recover western native trout

sediment levels contained mostly

in the rivers, lakes and watersheds

pollution-tolerant organisms, primarily

where they remain. The 2016 Small

non-insects.

Grants Program Request for Proposals

western-native-trout-initiative-smallgrants-program For more information about the Small Grants Program, visit www. westernnativetrout.org

continued on next page...

will be accepting applications until The USGS study was conducted, in

June 17, 2016.

part, to comply with a 2012 Oregon Department of Environmental Quality

The program specifically funds

“MS4” (Municipal Separate Storm

innovative projects that “jump start” or

Sewer System) Permit issued to 13 local

complete smaller, high-impact efforts.

governments in Clackamas County.

Projects considered for funding under

The permit’s primary purpose is to limit

the Small Grants Program may include

pollution discharges to creeks, wetlands

riparian or instream habitat restoration,

and rivers from urban areas.

“I’m proud of the fact that a dozen separate units of local government worked together to design and fund this monitoring study in partnership with the

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

USGS,” said Andrew Swanson, water

30

barrier removal or construction, population or watershed assessments needed for prioritization and planning, water leases or acquisitions to improve in-stream flows, and native trout-focused community outreach and education.

quality analyst with Clackamas County’s

Individual projects can be funded at a

Water Environment Services. “Each of

maximum of $3,000.

these local governments could have chosen to implement separate, small

“I know a $3,000 grant award may

monitoring efforts without assistance

sound small, “ said Therese Thompson,

from the USGS, but by working together,

WNTI Project Coordinator, “but over

the cost for each participating local

four previous years of funding, this grant

government was reduced, potential

program has consistently brought in

Fly fishing simplified...

SOUPLEFLY.COM // BOOTH 216

CZECH OR HIGH STICK d e a d d r i f t i n g ny m p h i n g te c h n i q u e s a re incredibly effective ways to fish for trout.

And our new Boron III X Super 10 rods were designed specifically for these and o t h e r m e t h o d s . Th e i r d y n a m i c B o ro n technology, combined with a longer 10 foot length, a medium progressive action and finely tuned rod characteristics, p rov i d e s a n g l e r s w i t h t h e p re c i s e, d e l i c a te co n t ro l t h ey n e e d fo r l i n e, leader an d fl y pl a cement. Supe r 10 rods offe r u n paralle d pe r for ma nce nd and the versatility to handle technical nymph techniques, double nymphs, we i g h te d ny m p h s , st r i ke i n d i c a to r s a n d l i g h t st re a me m e rs . The ro ds feature ou r n ew “Sh ootin g Guides,” a downlocking reel seat for proper weight distribution and a 2” cork extension on the grip to re d u ce a r m fa t i g u e. Fo r ny m p h i n g s u cce ss ,

THIS IS YOUR STICK.

winstonrods.com

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

T H E N E W B O R O N I I I X S U P E R 1 0 R O DS

31

CURRENTS

New This Year - IFTD Demo Day

to Fly Fish. The book was written,

each chapter is a “sidebar” of travel

compiled and edited by Terry and

information including airports nearest

Wendy Gunn and Bennett Mintz.

the park, fly shops, campgrounds,

Park chapters were researched and

hotels, restaurants, lodges, outfitters

written by guides, fly shop owners and

and nearby emergency medical services.

outfitters who best understand those waters, from Maine’s Acadia Park to

Of America’s 57 National Parks, 29 have

Katmai in Alaska.

some degree of fresh- or saltwater fly

New this year! IFTD will be hosting Each park chapter contains entry and

covered in full detail. Four parks–Dry

Grande Lakes Tuesday, July 12, from

access information, fish species, fly

Tortugas, Isle Royale, Voyageurs and

9am to noon, with lunch to follow. The

patterns, seasons and mile markers for

Wrangell-St. Elias—are discussed

inaugural IFTD Demo Day will allow

river and lake entry along with detailed

to a lesser degree because of their

maps and photos. Accompanying

remoteness and limited access.

media and retailers the opportunity to catch trophy bass using manufacturers' products. Twelve pond locations will be available for IFTD exhibiting companies to sponsor, and participating attendees will be utilizing golf carts to access the sponsored locations. This is a great opportunity for companies to talk directly with the attendees one-onone about their product outdoors, on the water, in a live fishing scenario.

Sponsorship of a pond is $500 and includes a table, three chairs, and transportation of all product to and from the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes golf pro shop to your pond location and lunch. To reserve your pond email callie@affta.org today. This event will fill up quickly! If you want to fish it’s FREE, but you must sign-up by emailing callie@affta.org.

Books AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Fly Fishing National Parks from East

32

fishing. Twenty-five of the parks are

a Demo Day at the Ritz Carlton at

to West in the U.S.

Stonefly Press has just released a comprehensive where-to-go, how-toget-there, do-it-yourself manual on fly fishing titled 25 Best National Parks

Archival quality. Limited ads.

Iconic voices; stunning images.

Conservation, adventure and travel.

Tablet and collectible paper editions.

Get The Flyfish Journal in your shop today Retail and adver tising: questions@thefly fishjournal.com or call 360.752.5559 www.thefly fishjournal.com

“Fly fishing in many parks is a longtime

flows from the bottom of Lake Murray

brook trout streams. Even though the

American tradition; but there are

offering a cold water fishery unlike any

Shenandoah National Park is only an

National Parks with outstanding fishing

other in the country. The Broad River,

hour from our nation’s capital, one can

that are largely ignored by anglers and

flowing from the north is a smallmouth

still hike into these hollows and fish all

more renowned for other activities,” said

bass angler’s dream. These two rivers

day without seeing another angler.

Stonefly Press publisher Robb Clouse.

merge to form the Congaree River.

The Congaree flows easterly and forms

For additional information or to

He cited Congaree National Park in

the southern boundary of Congaree

purchase the book, contact Stonefly

South Carolina. The chapter begins,

National Park. The Congaree

Press at www.stoneflypress.com;

“Few places in the world offer a year

boasts large numbers of small and

fax (877-609-3814); email orders@

round trout fishery lined with Spanish

largemouth bass. In the spring, stripers

stoneflypress.com.

moss-laden hardwoods; and come

up to 40 pounds migrate to spawn in

summer you’ll find smallmouth and

the upper stretched of the Congaree

striped bass.”

River and then move into the Saluda River for the summer.”

Congaree author Jake Howard of

JUST IN... (More New Product) New From Simms (a first foray

Shenandoah National Park author Harry

elaborates on opportunities in or

Murray of Murray’s Fly Shop in Edinburg,

adjacent to the park, “The three rivers

Virginia, wrote, “The opening of the

The new DOWNStream Jacket ($349.95)

located in its heart offer world class

Skyline Drive on September 15, 1934

leads Simms’ fall lineup. It is comprised

fishing that have been kept a secret for a

was especially important to anglers for

of a DWR treated down blend with

long time. The Saluda River, a tailwater,

it made available the headwaters of the

Primaloft Gold synthetic insulation with

into down)

continued on next page...

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Barron’s Outfitters in Columbia

33

CURRENTS

ultimate high loft. The DownStream

G4 Pro Packs will include a backpack,

specialty retailers in North America.

has 750 fill power equivalent and

sling, hip and tactical hip models, all

Locally’s technology also allows

is engineered for wet weather

featuring hideaway strap capabilities,

participating retailers to show

performance. Body mapping means

magnetic tool docking stations and

shoppers their available inventory

more insulation in lower sleeves and

large openings for easy access.

at their store directly on the Simms

hood. Hydrophobic sleeves remove stitching at the wrist so you can release fish and not lose warmth at the wrist.

SIMMS First Fishing Company to Integrate Locally’s On-Site Tools

There is a Women’s DOWNStream

Simms has already launched with this Locally further by adding product availability feeds directly on its product

Two other major offerings from

Simms Fishing Products recently

Simms for 2017 will be Headwaters

announced its website (simmsfishing.

Stockingfoot waders at a pricepoint of

com) will incorporate on-site tools

$399.95, and a series of G4 Pro Packs,

powered by Locally. Based in New

be able to locate gear in their area,

including slings hip packs, etc.

Orleans, LA, Locally helps online

reserve the gear for pick-up, or even

shoppers find and buy in stock in

transact and get the product delivered

The Headwaters Pro Stockingfoot

nearby stores through a platform of

to their door.

features three-layer GORE-TEX Pro

tools for brands and retailers.

pages via Locally’s Product Locator technology. Then, visitors would

“The Locally integration is all

Shell material, as well as patented front-and-back center seam design. It is

Locally was launched in 2014 by a

about helping the customer find

made in the USA.

handful of outdoor specialty retailers

product expertise that can only

with expertise in both local and online

be found at specialty retail,” says

sales. They realized that there was a

Steve Bendzak, Simms’ VP of Sales.

need for retailers to have a widerreaching online presence, especially targeted to their potential local shoppers. In addition, there was also a need for online shoppers who enjoy conducting product research on the internet but prefer completing purchases in stores to be able to access local inventory using the internet.

In launching with AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

universal inventory sync process. functionality, and plans on integrating

Jacket variation as well (also $349.95).

34

Dealer Locator, using Locally’s simple,

“Our objective is to create brand awareness, provide access to product knowledge and drive traffic to specialty retailers where a lifelong relationship can be established. The response to partnership with Locally from our authorized dealers has been rewarding and we anticipate significant participation.”

The Simms Dealer Locator is already live and the company is working with getting as large a percentage of its retailer base signed up in time

Simms, Locally

for the ICAST-IFTD Show in July in

now powers the

Orlando. To see it live, visit https://

company’s Dealer

www.simmsfishing.com/dealer-locator.

Locator, highlighting

Retailers are encouraged to visit

the locations of

simms.locally.com/retailers to sign up

approximately 550

and get started.

The new Air. The lightest, finest performing fly rod we’ve ever made. 2 through 6 weight. Incredibly broad casting range. New for 2017.

The new SST. Striking design, star drag color options, larger arbor, finest fully-sealed drag in the world.

New for 2017.

WINSTON ENERGY FLY LINES New, optimized performance lines designed for enhanced presentation, accuracy and energy transfer.

A true advancement. New for 2017.

winstonrods.com

FEATURE

COMPETITIVE FLY FISHING– IT’S A LOVE-HATE THING Written by Marshall Bissett

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

"Rank amateur..."

36

"Pretender"

“Fishing tournaments seem a little like playing tennis with living balls...”

The first told the sad tale of how

At the same time in far off Jajce,

Anthony Naranja, organizer of the Pro

Bosnia, another competition was not

Fly Angling Tour scammed anglers out

receiving the recognition it deserved.

Jim Harrison, Just Before Dark, 1991

of their entry fees and then refused to

In the 35th World Championship of

pay their winnings. When Field&Stream

Fly Fishing, the U.S. International Fly

The words “fly-fishing competition” can

ran this story, readers piled on with

Fishing Team won a silver medal and

raise enough hackle to supply a fly tiers

comments: “Add this to the list of

team member Devin Olsen scored an

convention. It’s a topic that prompts

reasons to stay away from competitive

individual bronze medal–an astonishing

stream rage and can twist the knickers of

fly fishing.” Naranja, a dentist from

achievement for a team that used to

a normally serene group.

Colorado, became almost as hated as

be soundly thrashed by the French,

the dentist from Minnesota who shot

the Brits and the Poles. Pro angler Jeff

In 2015, two news stories highlighted

Cecil the lion. A bad day for dentists,

Currier remembers when the event was

the extremes of this contentious debate.

anglers and competitors.

held in Jackson, Wyoming, in 1997.

continued on next page...

of

FEATURE

Best

Show Premium Fishing Flies

Premium Hooks for Fly Tying

Premium Fly Reels

Premium Fly Tying Tools

Premium Split Shot

Premium Boxes

Phone Orders: (800) 332-3305 E-Mail: info@anglersportgroup.com Website: www.anglersportgroup.com

Visit us at

IFTD

Show Booth

# 548

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Stock our award-winning brands

37

DENVER, CO JANUARY 6, 7 & 7

FEATURE

MARLBOROUGH, MA JANUARY 20, 21 & 22

“The US team came in 29th in a field

SOMERSET, NJ JANUARY 27, 28 & 29

of 30; the Europeans walked all over us on our home water.” The amazing turnaround in team performance since those dark days is the result of hard work, sponsorship dollars and national pride. Two competitions with very different outcomes.

2017

TESTOSTERONE AND THE COMPETITIVE SPIRIT

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016 38

We already have casting competitions and secretly find them irresistible.

From Best of the West to Speyorama we are held in awe by arrow head loops and gravity-defying distances.

Casting gods are great theatre and good for business—any other sport would have them tricked out in NASCAR outfits. Even the stately and austere River Test has succumbed to that most American event, the One Fly Tournament.

LYNNWOOD, WA FEBRUARY 18 & 19 PLEASANTON, CA FEBRUARY 24, 25 & 26 LANCASTER, PA MARCH 4 & 5

PHOTO COURTESY OF BARRY AND CATHY BECK.

If you don’t believe fly fishing is already competitive then you are not fishing enough with your male pals.

Every time Frank catches his limit and Jim gets skunked, it might as well be the World Series. Winning and losing are the sub currents of any fishing trip. According to Currier, “That is why reels have click drags – so that you can tell your buddies that you’re catching and they’re not!”

Now you may be that exceptional human, so evolved that the outcome is less important than the experience, but you can be sure that your guide does not share your life view. Every time you tell him that “it’s not about catching fish but having fun on the water” you are driving a stake into his heart, forgetting that he belongs to the most competitive social group on earth.

;

ATLANTA, GA NEW LOCATION FEBRUARY 3 & 4

Fly Fishing is NOT part of the show IT IS THE SHOW!

flyfishingshow.com INDUSTRY NOTABLES WEIGH IN

says Rajeff now in his 50th year as a competitor. “I don’t think it will ever

At a recent industry show in Denver, there was no shortage of angling legends with their own take on competitive angling. World champion caster and rod developer for the G.Loomis Company, Steve Rajeff

be a big money deal but I would favor more competition if it didn’t mess with our rivers and disturb the guys who want solitude.” Just as the technology of Formula One racing results in better

seemed like a good starting point.

brakes on your minivan, competitive

“What I learn from tournament casting

casting has turned the fly rod from a

finds its way into our everyday rods,”

noodle into a cannon.

FEATURE 888.512.8812

The trickle-down theory finds another strong supporter in Simon Gawesworth of RIO PRODUCTS, author of The Art of Speycasting and Speyorama competitor. “Developing Spey lines capable of much greater distance than 10 years ago is a passion driven by competition. Our new long belly line is based on what we learned from tournament casters,” says Gawesworth.

Few people have more insight into top level competition than former USA team captain, author and guide George

reservations@tflats.com

Daniel. Now retired from international competition, Daniel looks back on his competitive years starting with the ESPN Games in 2002. “You learn a lot, especially from the top European teams but there’s a big price to pay being away from home for long stretches.”

Currier agrees, “I’ve been asked to fish the Masters Championships (for over 50’s) this year on a loch in Ireland.

If it was more of a nymphing event in Europe I’m not sure I would be so keen.

It’s not my favorite way to catch fish.”

Daniel believes that outsiders look at competitions and immediately see the ‘loud and obnoxious’ side of the Pro Bass circuit. “What they don’t realize is that we can learn a lot from the bass guys—they are consummate innovators,” he adds. Asked about the strict rules of international team tournaments, Daniel pursues the

innovative theme. “The rules can be a barrier to entry for many people. In competition we can’t be as creative as we would like. You have to play the percentages to win.”

In his guiding career, Currier has seen the direct effects of Euro angling on his home water. “A few years ago you would never see a 10- or 11foot 4-weight rod in Montana, and companies like Winston have really gotten behind these changes.”

Both agree that it is a ‘young man’s game’ and that today’s youth are less competition averse than their solitude seeking parents.

Wisconsin angler, teacher and bona fide legend Gary Borger thinks we should focus on bass. “They are in waters all over the US and require the same casting, tying and other skills as trout. We could use the model of bass

continued on next page...

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Top flight competitive anglers have a hand in designing fanny packs, fly boxes, jackets, waders and everything else we use on the water. You may hate the idea of competition but it’s hard turn down its unintended benefits. Currier likens it to his other passion–playing pool. “I want to play someone who can kick my ass, that’s how you learn.”

www.tflats.com

39

FEATURE tournaments, and they could learn from us. How often do you see them use a tube fly or a two fly streamer rig?”

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Borger hopes that over time competitions might attract the interest of educators and fly fishing could be part of high school physical education programs. This is an idea that seems to be working in the UK where British tournament angler and director of the England Youth Fly Fishing team, Charles Jardine runs the very successful Fishing 4 Schools program and is a vocal proponent of anything that will bring young people in touch with the outdoors. He has this to say.

“Competitive angling; like it or loathe it (and most fall into the latter category) has been the tinder to the embers of fly fishing in the UK. It is growing not so much on stillwater where the heady, mass participation on our reservoirs over the last two decades was akin to a crusade. Instead, more and more fly fishers are turning to rivers and especially grayling—a species once shunned in the UK, but is now finding acclaim and revered. This is wholly on the back of vast interest of river fishing in the competitive arena that is Europe.

In turn this has spawned new tackle, thoughts, tactics and introduced the sport to a whole new type of fisher.“

40

If you were born before 1990, you may remember a time when every televised event was not a competition; cooking shows taught recipes without blue and red teams and you were in no danger of being voted off the island. Of course you can opt for quiet time on a pristine river (if you can find one) and find the antidote to all that winning at all costs stuff. At least you will never risk losing your entry fee or worse, coming in last.

OPINION

I’M CHANGING MY MIND ON COMPETITIONS… SO LONG AS THEY AREN’T ONLY ABOUT TROUT WRITTEN BY KIRK DEETER

It’s funny to me how this topic of

the famous Jackson Hole One-Fly,

competitive trout fishing comes

or the One Bug on the Delaware

up every few years. I’ve tried to

are at all bad. Quite the contrary.

see it from all angles. I’ve fished

Really great, in fact. They raise

(and failed) in charity one-fly

a ton of money for conservation

tournaments. I rejoiced at the news

causes. They’re fun, social events,

that Team USA (and our juniors) did

and nobody takes them too

well in international competitions.

seriously. Most importantly, in the

I’ve thought about it and thought

end, after those events are done,

about it… and I have run numerous

the rivers that they are held on

stories from all sides of the issue.

are in far better shape (or will be in better shape) than they were

But in the end, I cannot shake the

before, because the competitions

feeling that competitive fly fishing

happened. Sure, there are tons of

for trout is just plain stupid.

sore-lipped fish who would just as soon do without the competitions,

Now that’s not to say that the many charity fishing competitions, e.g.

continued on next page...

Millie Jo Paini releases a gray ghost back to its old haunt. Jardines de la Reina, Cuba. Rich Paini © 2016 Patagonia, Inc.

Taking care.

Over 40 years ago Patagonia’s first environmental grant was given to a river restoration group, and we’ve been supporting fish-specific causes ever since. We believe angling and conservation go hand in hand, and we’ve given over $13 million to grassroots organizations working to protect wild fish and their habitats around the world. To us, fly fishing isn’t about taking—it’s about taking care.

Join Patagonia in support of the River of Grass Declaration that demands immediate action to stop damaging discharges to coastal estuaries and restore the flow of clean freshwater to Everglades National Park and Florida Bay. Stop by Booth #401 to sign on and learn more from representatives of bullsugar.org.

but they’re about the only ones with a

himself, who founded the Bassmaster

But once you get one brown trout,

right to complain or criticize.

Classic, once said that if carp could

that’s it. You're wasting your time

jump, bass fishing wouldn’t be nearly

catching any more. Time to go get

Any other tournament, for pride, or

the sport it is today (well, he said

a smallmouth bass. After that, a

profit or show, that shows up, pounds

something like that, trust me, I just

the living snot out of trout for a week

carp. Then chase a pike. And if you

can’t remember exactly what it was).

really have some chops, you might

or so, then leaves, is one I would just

even get a tiger musky, for which

as soon do without. And I have yet to

The carp thing took off a little bit,

find a way to believe that anyone who

but only enough to maintain a very

draws or earns the “honey hole” on any

small counter-culture of bona fide

river is legitimately a better angler than

angling weirdos like myself. I don’t

you will get extra “tiebreaker” points if you happen to end up tied at the end of the day.

the one who drew a

Okay, sure, that requires

stinky beat.

Just my opinion, but I am entitled to it, and a helluva lot of other anglers share it.

I’m not against fishing tournaments in general. You’ll remember that a few

"Any tournament, for pride, or profit or show, that shows up, pounds the living snot out of trout for a week or so, then leaves is one I would just as soon do without."

wanted legitimate competitions as a means of generating attention, we should have more carp tournaments.

You can’t kill enough carp in most places to suppress their populations.

They live everywhere. Every angler has a training ground, no matter

somebody is going to have a lock on the bucket where all the walleye eat egg flies. I get that, but I have at least a little hunch that the team that wins the chase for 25 species might be equal all around fly-anglers as the team

years ago, I wrote that if fly fishing really

burning a lot of gas, and

that Czech-nymphs the think anyone thinks its ever going to be the major sales kicker we all hoped it would be. Oh well, we tried.

So now I hear about the “Mile High 25” in Colorado, and am starting to think that might be the best

most trout out of a river.

At least they better represent the type of all-around angler we want more of in this sport if we want to ultimately see the industry grow, and diversify… and the more we want

approach. It adds diversity to the

to create more space on rivers…

mix, encouraging people to chase

and the more we want to keep trout

And most of all, those carp are hard

different species with fly rods (which

populations viable. In the end, I

to catch! I have absolutely no doubt

no matter what anyone says, is a

think that’s more in tune with the

in my mind that when you factor in all

no-brainer positive ideal that can

ideals of “growing” the sport most

the things that make a great angler—

only benefit the sport of fly fishing).

retailers are interested in.

from casting ability, to fly selection,

And, by the way, the tournament

to reading water, and spotting

format doesn’t require pounding the

I’m sorry if you disagree with me, and

targets (or at least knowing where

living tar out of a population of trout

in some ways I’m happy for you if

they will be)—the common carp is a

that’s finning around in some pristine

you’re killing it through pushing the

far, far more accurate test than any

mountain stream.

competitive fly fishing for trout angle.

where they live.

If so, I’d love to know just how many

species of trout ever will be. They’re tougher and smarter than bass, for

Twenty-five species. Go get as many

European-style nymphing rods you sold

that matter. And the great Ray Scott

of them as you can in a weekend.

last year and how you did it.

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

43

FEATURE

FEATURE

SIMMS AND BASS...

HOW'S IT GOING?

Five years ago, a fly-fishing standard set out to “cross over” into the bigger, badder bass market. Will the Simms experience prompt other major fly brands to follow suit?

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Written by Shauna Stephenson

44

There’s a grey wall in the lobby of the

deep paragraph—not something you

everything beyond that wall together.

Bozeman-based Simms mothership.

can read quickly as you walk by. It’s no

On one side, a television plays loops

half-hearted slogan or inspired quote

Before civilization, it says, before all

of fish porn. To the right, a bank of

from someone long-dead.

today’s trappings and problems, there were rivers. And lakes. And oceans.

windows illuminate a hive of activity— the production floor that cuts, sews

Rather, this set of words set in san

and welds the waders for which the

serif caps of slaty grey on grey seem

company has become known.

to serve as a prelude, or perhaps

“...The more time immersed, the

the parentheses around an idea -

better we feel. The more time adrift

the rounded boundaries that hold

elsewhere, the deeper we ache to

On the wall is a long paragraph. It’s a

And we were drawn to them.

continued on next page...

Scot A Kuchta — SAKMEDIA

CHUMS-FLYVINES EYEWEAR RETAINER Chums is proud to partner with Flyvines, a Montana company which recycles used fly line to create outdoor accessories. Each Chums-Flyvines eyewear retainer is hand braided and one of a kind. chums.com

FEATURE return. It’s our addiction. It’s religion.

And it’s philosophy, economics and art all smashed into one. It’s nothing but ions, molecules, and particles and yet it is everything. At Simms, these aqueous environments are our root…”

From root comes brand, and the brand Simms has built is recognized throughout the world. Simms orange is to this growing company is what yellow is to Big Bird—birds of another color feather wouldn’t quite be the same.

For a long time, Simms has been a “go to” gear maker for fly anglers, catering to the drift boat rowing, river wading, hatch matching feather chuckers of the world. A fly-fishing standard.

And for many years, in occupying that niche alone, life was good.

But in 2011, Simms set their sights on an even bigger market: Bass.

That year, Simms unveiled its Pro Dry Jacket and Bibs. Since then, the company has brought on some major names in the bass world. Today, nearly half of the Simms Pro Team specialize in bass fishing.

Which has the angling world buzzing.

How can a company rooted in fly anglers also cater to what seems to be

"Simms Angler Casey Anthony winning the BassMaster Classic in 2015." Photo Credit Rich Hohne

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

a very different audience?

46

At its core, the choice to venture into

The sun a guide in Montana has to

Seated in the break room—also painted

the bass market boiled down to what

worry about is the same sun that a pro

in Simms orange—Rich Hohne, brand

bass had in common with fly: sun, rain

bass angler in Georgia has to worry

communications director for Simms

and cold.

about, or a flats guide in Florida.

But beyond that he says, there’s a

Fishing Products, explains: The bass world and the fly-fishing world really

“It was clear that a lot of our gear

aren’t that different.

translates to other types of fishing,” Hohne

***

universality to fishing.

says. “Gear should be there to connect

“We want to be a leader in promoting

anglers to their best days on the water.”

fishing and the fishing lifestyle.”

FEATURE “People say ‘I’m a skier,” or ‘I’m a runner.’ We want more people to say ‘I’m an angler.’” ***

Breaking into the bass market is no small feat.

This is a world of big money.

Big boats, big engines, big manufacturers… big ad budgets.

Beyond that, marketing tactics are simply different. While the fundamental desire to have high performing gear may be the same, the marketing behind those products looks very different.

In 2012, research firm Southwick Associates, estimated that of the 26 million people who considered themselves anglers in this country, 11 million of them were primarily chasing bass. And that translates to dollars: With $45 billion spent annually on fishing, Sixteen billion dollars of that was dedicated solely to bass.

“This market segment represents significant buying power and tremendous marketing And the average bass audience: They

opportunities to fishing brands,”

that the two worlds are all that different.

fish as much as they can and have the

said Rob Southwick, president of

same concern for the environment and

Southwick Associates, in a news

quality of fisheries.

release at the time.

concerned about the river, its fish

While some of the gear may be

In short, a good time to diversify.

populations and habitat. They aspire

different, and the geography may be

to fish more and define themselves

different, the fundamentals—desire and

There has been criticism that Simms

as an angler.

passion for fishing—are the same.

has devoted too many resources to

Take the average fly-fishing audience: Typically they are a passionate angler,

continued on next page...

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Hohne says he doesn’t necessarily accept

47

FEATURE the bass arena. But when you look at the numbers, that simply isn’t true, Hohne says.

“We’ve got a very modest media spend [for bass],” he says.

48

Known for their gritty black and white angler-based photos, Simms has

In 2015, not long after signing Casey

defined themselves with a very specific

Ashley, the pro bass angler went out and

look. And while they don’t plan on

won the Bassmaster Classic in some of

getting away from that baseline, you

the coldest conditions ever endured.

will see differences. The look is cleaner,

Part of that he attributed to Simms.

more angular, a nod to an audience that thrives on speed and energy.

“I’ve never fished in a tournament this cold like it was the first day,” Ashley

“We’re a product-led company. Always

said after winning.

have been, always will be,” Hohne says. “But we don’t yet know how

The ongoing shift raises the question

much of that [traditional Simms] look

of how a company diversifies without

and feel to move over without making

alienating its core audience? For

it its own thing.”

Simms, the trick has been to go with what they know with a few tweaks to

In the end, the main difference between

fit into the “typical” bass look. How

the fly world and the bass world?

far they will take that is a question the company in still weighing.

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

Rather, the company has focused on making key connections, bringing on well-known names to the bass team.

In 2010, members of the Mercury Pro team showed up in the Simms suits. By 2011, the company started signing bass anglers and has added to that team since with a number of well-known names including three-time angler of the year Aaron Martens, 33-yearveteran and bass fishing icon, Gary Klein, one of the fiercest competitors in the sport, Ish Monroe, and the legendary Shaw Grigsby.

And those relationships have paid off.

The bass world is one of big boats, big engines, big manufacturers, and big money...

“More lights,” Hohne says.

COUNTERPOINT

WANT BETTER POLICIES AND HEALTHIER FISH STOCKS? THEN WE NEED TO STOP POINTING FINGERS WRITTEN BY WHIT FOSBURGH Our goal in producing the Morris-Deal report was to lay out a broad vision for how federal fisheries management can work better for all recreational anglers, based upon the principles of upholding conservation, enhancing access, and highlighting our economic strength.

Witek’s critique is off-base and founded in the manipulation of certain facts and the omission of others.

As a lifelong fly fisher, I have no doubt that the six recommendations in the report are good for all recreational anglers and the fisheries themselves.

Here’s what they would mean: Rec Gets a Seat at the Table

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

For too long, recreational anglers have been ignored in federal fisheries management. In recent years, sportfishermen have redoubled efforts to make our voices heard, but infighting and division within our community continues to hold us back.

50

Case in point: The spring edition of Angling Trade featured a guest column by Charles A. Witek, III, (“Speak for Yourself”) that claims our community’s efforts to reform the Magnuson-Stevens Act will cripple fly fishing. Witek specifically takes aim at the recommendations made by the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and its sportfishing partners in the report “A Vision for Managing America’s Saltwater Recreational Fisheries,” more commonly referred to as the Morris-Deal report, owing to the panel’s co-chairs, Johnny Morris of Bass Pro Shops and Scott Deal of Maverick Boat Company.

More than 12 million Americans are involved in recreational fishing on saltwater every year, and we are as big as or bigger than commercial fishing in terms of economic benefit.

Yet, recreational fishing has never been a priority for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). To its credit, the agency is trying to work more closely with anglers, and they give credit to the Morris-Deal report for helping strengthen that relationship.

Shortly after the report’s release, NMFS developed and issued its first recreational fishing policy, a big step forward in improving relations with the recreational community and ensuring that recreational fisheries are considered in all agency actions.

A Different Approach for a Different Kind of Fishery Recreational fisheries require a more conservative management approach than commercial fisheries, which are

managed under the general principle of maximum sustained yield—pushing harvest right up to the edge to maximize catch without jeopardizing stocks. This requires very precise realtime data, which is difficult to gather in recreational fisheries. There are better models, such as the way the Fish and Wildlife Service manages waterfowl.

Each year, scientists and managers estimate breeding success and mortality (whether by natural causes or human impact) and set the next year’s bag limits and seasons. You need to build in a conservation cushion in case events conspire against you, but at least hunters know when there will be a season so they can make their plans.

Recreational anglers, and the businesses they support, deserve the same thing—a well-managed fishery with rules that all anglers can understand.

Fair Allocations Recreational fishing has exploded in popularity over the last 40 years, but in mixed-stock fisheries (where the fish are pursued by commercial harvesters and recreational anglers), allocation of that stock may have been set decades ago. Our report recommends that the fishery management councils periodically review allocations based on economic and conservation factors.

Recreational fishermen may actually lose some allocation in certain fisheries, but the point is still to make sure the conservation and economic needs of the fishery as a whole are being met.

Rebuilding Fish Stocks at a Reasonable Rate No one is advocating for a limitless timeline to rebuild stocks, as Witek

Imagine a world without fish and wildlife.

This is unthinkable.

417 projects in 46 states since 2006.

IT STARTS IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD.™

Every day in America, aquatic habitats are being degraded and this is happening in your backyard. Work with Beyond the Pond and partner with conservation NGOs, fish and wildlife agencies and fishing brands to reverse this trend and make your waters fishable and swimable.

National Fish Habitat Partnership • Washington, DC • 202-838-3466 • beyondthepondusa.com • fishhabitat.org

claims. Instead, this recommendation is based on the National Academy of Sciences stance that rebuilding timelines should vary depending on the species.

Stocks should get stronger whether they are fully rebuilt in 10 years or 12 years.

Some latitude would also allow for moderate changes in seasons, as long as fisheries are still rebounding and healthy.

This is how it’s done in very successful inland and coastal fisheries. There is no reason to believe it won’t work in the oceans as well.

Better Coordination with Local Fishery Managers

fish and expect to have strong gamespecies stocks.

What You Can Do It is easy to cherry-pick facts and try to divide our community through name calling or relying on broad stereotypes. But this is not about fly fishermen versus spin fishermen versus blue-water anglers. Those who have a vested interest in the status quo want you to believe this, but if we are going to create better recreational fisheries, with more fish in the water and more opportunities to pursue them, then we need to come together and not retreat to our comfortable—or critical—corners.

Stronger Protection for Forage Fish The species at the base of the entire marine fisheries ecosystem need robust management so our sportfish can flourish. We cannot decimate stocks of menhaden, herring, and other forage

Whit Fosburgh is the president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. He grew up hunting and fishing in upstate New York and was a member of Team USA in the 1997 World Fly Fishing Championships.

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

We want to make sure that the federal fisheries managers are working hand-inglove with their state counterparts. The most successful recreational fisheries are largely state-managed—snook, redfish, speckled trout, Alaska salmon, largemouth, and smallmouth bass to name a few—and federal managers should embrace this expertise. Witek

suggests that the states have allowed overfishing of Atlantic striped bass to occur, but he fails to acknowledge that in 2015, the states responded to declining trends in the fishery and angler concerns by implementing a significant harvest reduction before the stock reached “overfished” status.

Examples of federal management being that proactive or responsive are few and far between. Are states still subject to political pressures? Absolutely, and one could argue that the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s response to the striped bass decline should have happened sooner. But that is why we as advocates need to stay engaged; it is not an indictment of co-management.

51

June 2016.qxp_1/3 vertical 6/7/16 08:04 Page 1

Introducing

OPINION

STREAM MAP USA Covering the lower 48!

MAGNUSON-STEVENS: ANOTHER REASON TO CARE WRITTEN BY CHARLES A. WITEK, III

Stream Map USA is the first and only searchable river, lake and stream map designed specifically for iPhones, iPads and Androids.

"Where are the fish and how do I get there?"

As a fishing professional, you’ve probably spent a lot of time answering these questions.

It’s said that just about every fly

even whole books devoted to such

fishermen owns a 9-foot 5-weight.

species. The explosion of interest in fly

They probably also own every other

fishing for carp is a case in point.

fly rod that they need to fish in fresh water. Freshwater fly fishing

In salt water, that’s not the case. While

is a mature sport, with equipment

anglers regularly throw flies at bonefish,

purchases driven more by new

permit and snook—arguably the salt

technology than by new opportunity.

water equivalents of trout, salmon and bass—few fly fish for the maritime

That’s not true in the ocean. While fly

counterparts of bluegills and crappies.

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

fishermen have been landing striped

52

bass, weakfish and tarpon for more

In the Northeast, fish such as black sea

than a century, there are still a lot of

bass, scup and summer flounder will

untapped opportunities swimming

readily take a fly that’s retrieved in front

along America’s shores.

of their nose. Thanks to successful federal fisheries management efforts,

In fresh water, people cast flies to

all three species are abundant during

just about any fish that might take an

the dog days of summer, when striped

artificial lure. Whether one wants to

bass and false albacore are nowhere to

catch panfish or pike, it’s easy to find

be found. Even so, few fly fishermen

magazine articles, Internet essays and

have shown much interest in them.

continued on next page...

Now there's a quicker way!

Stream Map USA allows anglers to: • Find any river, lake or stream • Get turn-by-turn directions • Track their locations on the map • Create custom waypoints to save their favorite fishing spots Stream Map USA's integrated mapping and GPS tools can be used with roadmaps, satellite images and topographic maps even without phone service and it’s built-in navigation compass will guide anglers right back to their favorite fishing holes.

Stream Map USA is the perfect tool for tackle shops, fishing guides and anyone who loves to fish!

For detailed information contact:

Mike Gogal: 215-491-4223

StreamMapUSA.com

IN BRISTOL BAY, THE NEXT GENERATION OF GUIDES

HAS BEEN THERE FOR

GENERATIONS.

ART WEBB OF BCF JOHN VANVLEET

A TU ENDORSED BUSINESS: WWW.TU.ORG/TUE BECOME A TU BECOME ENDORSED BUSINESS: WWW.TU.ORG/TUE

Become a TU Business Member: www.tu.org/business Alaska Sportsman’s Bear Trail Lodge • TU GOLD LEVEL BUSINESS MEMBER • Bristol Bay Fly Fishing and Guide Academy • Nanci Morris Lyon, King Salmon, AK 99613

OPINION

Southern fly fishermen seem more

And red snapper are only one of a

They demonstrate the kind of

open minded about what they’re willing

number of species that can be caught

innovation, and marketing opportunities,

to fish for. Even so, underexploited

over relatively shallow reefs.

that result when fly fishermen target fish that they once ignored.

opportunities exist. In the Gulf of Mexico, federal managers are

In southern California, a group of

successfully rebuilding the red snapper

fly fishermen have already decided

stock; snapper are steadily recolonizing areas where they haven’t been caught in many years. That includes some shallow inshore structures, where they are vulnerable to flies.

to broaden their horizons. Naming themselves the “Calico Syndicate,” after the calico bass that is one of their primary targets, they have dedicated the past few years to designing new

Anglers who drop cut bait down to the reefs complain that red snapper have become so abundant, while bag limits have remains so low, that they

gear and techniques that allow them to catch fish that swim as much as 100 feet beneath the surface. They have worked with a number of tackle

However, there is a catch.

Fly fishing remains the least efficient way to catch fish such as flounder, black sea bass and grunts. If fly fishing for such species is ever to achieve the same popularity as fly fishing for carp and bluegills in fresh water, then the salt water panfish must be as abundant as carp and bluegills as well.

are forced to stop fishing shortly after

manufacturers to develop new lines of

Right now, that is the case. Thanks

they begin. Fishermen who have risen

gear that range from ultra-fast sinking

to the challenge of catching snapper

lines to leaders that saw through fronds

to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act,

on flies enjoy far longer, and more

of kelp, rather than snagging, when

interesting, outings.

dragged across them by a hooked fish.

continued on next page...

THE ALL NEW OSG STRIKER Light, easy to set up, and packs down small so you have better access to new rivers and wild places. It’s a two person, 102 lb. raft that negates the need for a trailer.

Featuring a self bailing floor, inflatable lean bar, and minimal frame design.

which requires fisheries managers to

Such organizations have already won a

end overfishing and promptly rebuild

victory in the House of Representatives,

overfished stocks, the populations of

where H.R. 1335, a bill that would gut

some popular coastal species have

the conservation provisions of federal

already been rebuilt. For others, the

fisheries law, was passed early last year.

rebuilding process is well underway.

Rebuilt stocks provide both angling and marketing opportunities that just don’t exist when fish are scarce.

Unfortunately, there are a number of commercial and recreational fishing organizations that are working hard to weaken Magnuson-Stevens. More interested in increasing short-term harvest than in the long-term health

Fortunately, they have not yet convinced anyone in the Senate to introduce a companion bill. However, their efforts to do so continue, and legislation to weaken Magnuson-Stevens could be introduced in the Senate this year.

Such legislation could only threaten the health of fish stocks, and would stifle the expansion of salt water fly fishing.

of fish stocks, they seek to delay the

For while abundant populations of fish

rebuilding of overfished populations

provide a host of new opportunities,

and to allow overfishing to continue for

depleted populations often provide no

an indefinite time.

opportunities at all.

FEATURE IMPERIAL FLY RODS

Handcrafted in Park Falls, Wisconsin, the Imperial series features performance and value unequaled in any other U.S.A.-built rod. ®

IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO SIMULTANEOUSLY KEEP YOUR NOSE TO THE GRINDSTONE AND CAST.

Some people live to work. Others work to live. But you, through luck or by design, remain focused on toiling in the halls of commerce only enough to maintain a formidable supply of flies. Or at least this is your plan some day. While they check email, you check hatch tables. While they hold a death grip on the throttle of their career, you have your hand wrapped around the cork grip of a St. Croix fly rod – casting. WWW.STCROIXRODS.COM

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

continued on next page...

57

MARKS SPOT THE

Product review by AT editor Kirk Deeter

FEATURE By now, the cat is well out of the bag.

I also see the market being extremely

you fish through superior loop control.

You all know that Sage has introduced

ripe and ready for this product.

With our innovative KonneticHD

a new fly rod it has named “X.”

Anglers love fast-action rods, and this

Technology came new inspiration

is a line-speed demon. By that, I mean

and opportunities in rod design.

I think that “X” is going to be the best-

that it is what the fattest sweet-spot,

The X rod’s all-new fast action taper

selling fly rod of all time, probably

graphite shaft driver is to every golfer

delivers greater blank recovery and a

within two or three years from right

in America—a legit way to help you

crisper tip stop, creating tighter, more

now, though I will be pleasantly

perform better than you actually are,

efficient loops throughout all ranges

surprised if Far Bank Enterprises

and take strokes off your game.

of casting styles. This taper allows you

"I hate false casts. Having spent a lot of time in scuba gear in rivers, watching how trout react to different factors, especially flies and fly lines that are cast over them, I know that shadows and motions from above are the primary deal-killers. The “X” is a one of the best “pick it up, set it down” rods I have ever cast.

By that, I mean, if you strip tight to the surface with a low rod tip, then load and shoot some line with an aggressive backcast, your forward cast is almost an afterthought. Done deal." (parent of Sage) actually tells me when

Most importantly, I am genuinely sold

to dig deeper into the rod and access

that happens.

on the performance and technology

the lower sections, shifting power

on a personal level, and over the

closer to the angler. Decreased lateral

From my vantage point, I see a well-

past 20-some years of writing about

and medial movement and vibrations

conceived, focused, yet grassroots-

fly rods, trust me, I’ve seen a ton of

in the blank result in a more accurate

up marketing strategy (it’s all about

contenders and pretenders. This one is

and efficient presentation, resulting in

the “buzz”) that the largest fly

real, and I will explain why in a bit.

a performance driven, forgiving fast

rod manufacturer in the world has

action blank - refining the synergy

obviously thrown “all-in” behind. This

First I’ll give you the promo-speak, if

rod series covers the whole fishing

for no other reason than it makes me

gambit, from small trout models

look smarter than I really am.

The technology, described by Sage:

handers, so Sage is obviously sold on

From Sage: “Ushering in a new era of

· New proprietary graphite/resin

its own “KonneticHD” (the HD stands

performance fast action fly rods, the

composite developed through

for high density) technology.

X will dramatically enhance the way

exclusive partnerships.

between angler, rod, line, and fly.”

continued on next page...

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

through the saltwater realm, even two-

59

FEATURE · Advanced high density (HD) fiber positioning, enhanced laminate characteristics, and optimized manufacturing techniques increase composite modulus while maintaining durability. · KonneticHD creates amplified strength-to-weight and stiffness- toweight ratios as needed within the rod blank. · Optimized fiber-to-fiber energy transfer along the length of the blank minimizes both lateral and medial vibrations, delivering accuracy in an easy loading blank with quick recovery, a crisp tip stop, and enhanced line feel for complete loop control.

Sage's marketing material for the X promises tighter loops.

· The highest energy transferring

(which I have professed to be the

flips my switch, as an angler, may

material we have ever

best fly rod made before), the Sage

or may not flip yours. It’s becoming

created, opening new doors for

One (which I also loved, and in some

even more of a totally subjective

our R&D Team to experiment

ways, am finding myself hard to budge

deal, because there are so many

with construction techniques, taper

away from), the Orvis Helios 2 (what

wonderful options out there that may

designs, and action profiles.

I consider to be the original “game-

just marry up to different anglers for

changer” in the modern era) and

lasting, meaningful reasons. What I

Okay, if you’re like me, you actually

the Thomas & Thomas Spire (which I

say, based on how I cast, may or may

get, at face value, about 40 percent of

simply find dead-sexy). I cast them all

not resonate with other anglers, and

what that really means. The real test

with the same two reels (a Sage Click,

I’m perfectly fine with that. In fact,

is when you line one up and fish with

and a Hatch 4-Plus), and the same two

I appreciate and respect that, more

it, which I started doing, over a month

lines (a RIO Perception 5-weight, and

than ever.

ago, long before the market tremors

an SA Ultimate Trout 5-weight).

But I will say a few things.

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

started to take full effect.

60

Now, if you are expecting a ranking, Sure, I was impressed at first shake,

or a proclamation that I have a new

First, I have never, in my life, cast a

and then at first cast. But in the

favorite rod, you might be a tad

rod that generates this type of line

interest of “due diligence” I went

disappointed. But the older I get,

speed, in a manner in which I can feel

down to my home pond and cast

and the more rods I fish, the more

that line speed being generated, in my

the “X” alongside the Scott Radian

I accept and understand that what

hand, through the cork grip, like the

FEATURE $39.99 MSRP 50% Dealer Margins 10 Functions - Stainless Steel

of the sipping trout you’re fishing to.

Of course, there’s an easy fix for that— elevate the imaginary landing zone a few feet above the water surface (where it probably belongs in the first place) and everything will be hunky-

WWW.CREEKCOMPANY.COM ▪ SALES@CREEKCOMPANY.COM ▪ (970) 879-5221

dory. Some of us, including myself, still prefer a moderate, even soft-

“X” does. It’s a more intimate casting

and motions from above are the

action rod for the most precise dry fly

experience. Yes, I have boomed big

primary deal-killers. The “X” is a one of

situations for that reason alone.

casts with other rods… I’ve even felt

the best “pick it up, set it down” rods

the precision just as much (when it

I have ever cast. By that, I mean, if you

The “X” is 1/16th of an ounce lighter

comes to accuracy) once I’ve made

strip tight to the surface with a low rod

than the One, for the record. What is

friends with other fly rods. I’ve just

tip, then load and shoot some line with

that, about two extra winds of backing

never felt it so deep down to my

an aggressive backcast, your forward

on a reel? Don’t concern yourself with

casting hand at the onset. I think that

cast is almost an afterthought. Done

weight these days, it’s all a wash now.

opens opportunities to understand

deal. Pick it up, load it, point it, will the

things like how to match the right line

target, and it goes there. It’s a hopper-

with this rod, and if an angler can dial

to-the-bank, all day long, out of a dory

in on that, they have more legitimate

option… and at larger sizes, a banging

performance freedom.

the mangroves for snook or bonefish, with minimal effort, stick.

When I cast, I often look at my loops,

For those anglers who are looking for an all-arounder… something with which they can cast some dry flies, or huck nymphs under a bobber, or even streamers, this is an indisputable “money” rod. There’s no two ways about it. I still love all

and I’m not bragging (I admittedly

Sage talks about the “tip-stop” factor,

cannot cast like some of you can), but

and normally, I’d take that with a

I do pride myself on driving a pretty

grain of salt… but for the fact that I

tight wedge. Wind doesn’t typically

genuinely noticed that also. It goes,

bother me. I’m going to say, looking

but it stops, and then it drops, with

at the loops I toss with the “X,” that

dead-on accuracy. Casting this rod can

That said, I love the “X,” partly for how

wedge is tightened at least another

be like driving tacks from 20 yards.

it feels in my casting hand and how I

2-3 inches, which might not sound like

Super precise. Bang, bang, bang.

am fishing it (we are still building our

much, but I think it matters a helluva lot, a least in certain conditions.

the other rods I mentioned earlier, and others too. In certain fishing situations, I still might opt for some of those rods over the “X.”

friendship at this moment), and partly If I were to ding the “X” on any front,

for what I think, as someone who has covered this industry for years, it’s

I hate false casts. Having spent a lot of

any fast-action rod. If you’re generating

going to mean for the fly shop owners

time in scuba gear in rivers, watching

that kind of line speed, and you

who sell it, and the anglers who fish it.

how trout react to different factors,

happen to drop the rod tip even a tad

especially flies and fly lines that are

low on final delivery, it’s going to look

It’s a legitimate “holy smokes, did I just

cast over them, I know that shadows

like someone tossed an M-80 on top

make that cast?” rod.

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

I’d ding it for the same reason I’d ding

61

B AC K C A S T

Jim Bartschi, president of Scott Fly Rods in Montrose, Colorado sees the phenomenon of forced introduction as an unnecessary means to an end.

“Every X number of years we replace this product category, or every year we want to unveil something new,” he says. “My feeling is that [rod] innovation really doesn’t happen on a timeline—and it certainly doesn’t happen by reacting to your competitors, which I see all the time.”

NEW MODEL YEAR How good fly rods are becoming harder to quit Written by Geoff Mueller

AnglingTrade.com | June 2016

The tech world’s pace of innovation is a rocket-propelled reality. By the time we pull the trigger on the latest iPhone, flat-screen TV, or digital camera there’s already a replacement waiting, ready to force us to rethink “what’s next.”

That whole process is both exciting and nauseating. Will innovation somehow revolutionize how we watch Sunday Night Football? Do we really care?

62

In the flyfishing sphere, life’s a little more relaxed. We stand in rivers for long hours pondering the behavior of a species propelled by a heartbeat—not a lithium-ion battery. We turn technology off. (Sometimes.) And we slow our roll in order to explore peripheries rather than the remote in our hands. But that hasn’t stopped industry manufacturers from marching to the mantra that says in order to sell more there must be an element of forever-new in the mix. That, too, can be both thrilling and wearing.

Scott’s Radian rod series was introduced at the International Fly Tackle Dealer show in Orlando in 2013, pocketing best-in-show honors. The company has since made new hires and ramped up production to meet demand. And although fresh offerings from the company will be unveiled this summer, it’s expected that the Radian, as a rod series, will dig its heels in for a while longer. In an intimate flyfishing community with relatively educated consumers, Bartschi adds, a quality fly rod should be a non-disposable product. “Instead of constantly tiring people out, our goal is to delight them.”

Non-endemic companies that make high-end goods have had success following a similar strategy. Porsche’s 911 model was born in 1964, launched a year later, and through the generations has become symbolic of athleticism, performance and, well, affluence. Over time, it’s also become an iconic ride. So much so that Porsche has not—likely will not—let it go.

When it comes to fly rods, however, most of the iconic, from classic Winstons to beloved Sages and other once-favorite sticks, are no longer in production. They live in collections.

They occasionally come up for auction on eBay. And they’ve since been lost to a landslide of new names, technology advancements, and an ever-changing spectrum of color hues that would make Bob Ross’s afro spin.

But there’s a shift occurring. And it stems from the fact that graphite rod technology is, according to the companies that turn out great gear, reaching a state of “Well, damn, there’s not much left to revolutionize here.”

Josh Prestin came to Redington two years ago, following a corporate stint at Cabela’s. As the Washingtonbased company’s brand manager, he’s witnessed what he calls a leveling of technology across the [rod manufacturing] industry. “As a brand we can produce incredibly performing rods at relatively approachable price points and the tech divide is shrinking.

It isn’t as much of a distinguishing factor as it once was.”

What that means is rods like those in Redington’s trout-centric Hydrogen family are being developed around a specific application; how we use a rod rather than a technology-hyped storyline. And unlike the latter, a richer purpose-driven narrative has the power to resonate over a longer time period, creating a degree of legacy in the lineup. Prestin says that Hydrogen, even with future tech updates, will maintain its moniker as well as its place in the Redington portfolio. For now, at least. And until relevant technology sparks the need for a new conversation.

Story, he adds, is key to Redington’s rod-naming practice. Every rod starts with a concept based on application, performance, and a target audience.

Projects typically have a title from the outset that relates to the plot.

Hydrogen was all about “lightest in class.” Redington’s new Vice series, on the other hand, is all about something pretty self-explanatory.

Its hard-to-quit aesthetics were inspired by a can of Copenhagen Wintergreen.

The AFFTA Fisheries Fund supports fisheries conservation projects to protect wildlife, habitat and access, and also fosters educational initiatives to grow new anglers. Let’s move the sport and industry of fishing forward...together.

To date, the Fisheries Fund has supported the following projects: • The Freshwater Trust’s efforts to restore steelhead & salmon habitat in the Big Sandy River Basin, Oregon • Trout Unlimited’s 5 Rivers Program that grows new university and college aged-anglers • Utah Stream Access Coalition’s fight for public access to Utah fisheries • Montana Trout Unlimited’s advocacy work regarding a proposed mine near the iconic Smith River fishery • Alaska Conservation Foundation’s work to permanently end threats of drilling and mineral extraction in the famed Bristol Bay, Alaska

For more information or to donate, visit: www.affta.org

h a nd cr a f t ed t o pe rf ec t i o n

est

19 6 9

T H E R O D YO U W I L L E V E N T UA L LY OW N Our craftsmen’s hands may not win any beauty contests but the rods they produce sure as hell should.

Beautifully handcrafted, we strive for perfection and uncompromising performance in every rod we make.

www.thomasandthomas.com HANDMADE IN AMERICA