JUNE 2012
Sluice Boxes State Park
» Belt Creek History, Hatches and Trout Fishery
Omak Grand Opening
» Big R Stores Grand Opening Weekend
Gear Showdown
» High & Dry Fly Floatants
E R U T A E F E R U T A CRE
Farm Store Fly Fishing
iFish
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playlist
Click to Listen
Editor’s Angle Plane Bound to Baja
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iFish Playlist Music Currently Playing in Our Ears
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Fish the Farm Store Find Cool Fishing Items in the Farm Store
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Omak Grand Opening Brand Spankin New, Big R Fly Shop opens in Omak
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Fly Shop Gear Simms, Patagonia, Buck’s Bags and More!
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Gear Showdown Which Fly Floatant Will or Won’t Leave You High and Dry?
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Hidden in Plain View We Review Extraordinary Eateries
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A Creek Runs Through It Sluice Boxes State Park
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Killer Trout Candy Snack Time!
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Fred’s Fishy Tales It’s Story Time, and Nobody Tells em’ Better Than Fred
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Sandpoint F3T Review The Historic Panida Theater Sells Out!
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Creature Feature Chubby Chernobyl by Cornfed
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Molly Semenik’s Casting Class Class Review
A Division of Big R Stores
ON THE COVER Sam shows off Stephan’s catch Omak Lake Photo by Alfonso Martinez
June 2012 • Volume 5, Issue 5
Keaten “Cornfed” Labrel Calvin Fuller Jerrin Uecker Dustin Bise
Stephan Avena Greg Bennett Tom McCormack
BIG R FLY SHOP Great Falls, MT (406) 761-7918 4400 10th Ave. S Great Falls, MT 59405
BIG R FLY SHOP Omak, WA (509) 422-9840 1227 Koala Dr Omak, WA 83852
EDITOR PUBLISHER DESIGN & LAYOUT GENERAL INQUIRIES
BIG R FLY SHOP Ponderay, ID (208) 255-5757 477181 N Hwy 95 Ponderay, ID 83852
Sam Wike Alfonso Martinez John Ewald/Rob Guevarra robg@csww.net/john.ewald@csww.net
CONTRIBUTORS Sam Wike, Fred Telleen, Calvin Fuller, John Ewald, Keaten Labrel, Dustin Bise, Molly Semenik.
To keep current in fly shop happenings and the latest fishing reports, visit us @ www.bigrflyshop.com Big R Fly Shop Magazine is a free monthly electronic publication bringing the latest perspectives, events, blogs and products related to the sport and art of fly fishing. This magazine is published online @ www.bigrflyshop.com every month. To receive email notifications when new issues are released, enter your email address HERE. All email addresses will be kept strictly confidential and will only be used for purposes connected with Big R Fly Shop. © Copyright 2012 CSWW Inc., dba Big R Stores. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
I hope you all get out fishing this weekend. Enjoy this month’s read and watch our blog for updated posts from our trip. Salud! Sam Wike
EDITOR’S ANGLE
EDITOR’S ANGLE
I’m feeling pretty guilty right now. I’m sitting on a plane bound for the East Cape of Baja, Mexico. This morning I was frustrated with myself for even booking this trip. I have been on the road at stores for the past few weeks with the other buyers and I just finally got home, worked on my yard, went to a Trout Unlimited meeting, packed this morning, and here I am in a plane again. I hope Calvin packed for the both of us because I have a vague idea of what made it in my Patagonia roller duffel. However, I understand the sympathy points I’m racking up here, and frustrations and stress of everyday tasks has passed. I’m ready to run down the Rooster, or just sit in a beach chair. Roosterfish, at least the last time I spent a week down here, seem to know exactly how far I can cast and stay just a few feet past that point. Success or not with the fishing, we are excited to be headed that way, and really can’t wait to sit down under a grass roof and have some fish tacos.
iFish
What we currently listen to. Murderers - John Frusciante Fun - Some Nights Don Omar - Danza Kuduro Matt and Kim - Daylight MIA - $20 Maritime - Parade of Punk Rock T-Shirts Basshunter - Now You’re Gone Iron & Wine - Love Vigilantes Ghostland Observatory - Vibrate Darude - Calm Before the Storm The White Buffalo - Where Dirt & Water Collide Young the Giant - Cough Syrup The Xx - Crystalised Tiesto - Lord of Trance Arcade Fire - Wake Up 4
Apr 2012 Jun
Click to Listen
FARM STORE FARM STORE
Fish the Farm Store
REPURPOSED: (verb) Adapted for use in a different purpose Next time you come into Big R Fly Shop for anything from flies to terminal gear, apparel or fly tying materials, don’t forget to shop around the rest of Big R for any useful items that may aid you in the sport of fly fishing. Everyday items that are used for farming purposes can be used in unique ways that cater to your needs, from fly tying to fixing up that used drift boat you just bought from the guy down the street.
h Gorrilla Glue has many many uses. We have found that it makes a great head cement for fly tying. Not only will it keep your fly from falling apart, but it can also be used to build up glossy bodies that dry clear and hard just as any other epoxy or resin for fly tying does. This pack of two is only $2.99 f These dog grooming brushes are great for mixing dubbing materials. A coffee grinder does a good job mixing similar fibers, but only with a set of brushes like these can you mix heavier and lighter dubbings with ease. Priced as low as $6.99 per brush. Jun 2012
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GRAND OPENING
Omak Gran
When I first caught wind that we were opening our second largest location in O of a lot of fishing there, which is my way of learning about anywhere new, and I really have begun to connect and here is why.
My first experience in Omak started with a drive up the Methow River Valley wit tions en route to steelhead and trout destinations all over the northwest, and although I c gets us there alive every time... so far. I have learned to just bob my head to his techno I can’t wait to fish it more, furthermore we found tributaries to it that I’m even more exci years. We then headed to the other side in the Okanogan Valley and in about a half an h fly fishing opportunities that I hope I’ll have time to fish in this lifetime.
This past week we opened our new store and fly shop. We have some great st hired for the shop. He has high energy, is the high school soccer coach, he’s in love with to meet his very cool family; we are very excited to have him on our team. Next is Greg. owner of Putmbac guide service out of Omak and has guided the rivers and Stillwater in whole life, and knew what he was going to know, and that would be it. Man was I wron him about any kind of fishing, he is open to learning about any kind of fly fishing, and w steelhead on the swing before work (earlier in the year before the run closed), and I was of my fly fishing year so far. We also have Tanner working in and out of the fly shop w but I can tell he is excited to get in to things. During grand opening his eyes were glued t ers to sign up for our eMag. I’m looking forward to seeing what he will do with his oppo team members Tom McCormick and Eric Arnold who are local ambassadors to the fishin private lake right next to the store that Calvin, Patty, and I had the chance to sample th should be even though I hate to admit it). These are the guys directly associated with the store manager, and his team. Making a fly shop work inside a farm store isn’t easy, an to have some great managers in our stores, and they deserve endless thanks.
Our grand opening event was three days long in Omak. Calvin Fuller, Erik Haug success, and the results exceeded my expectations. I have come to the realization that O undiscovered and I can’t wait to learn more.
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Jun 2012
Although I think we have put together a great fly shop for the area, and I think w ers on the best gear and flies to carry from the store. Nothing is possible without custo fly shop walls, or insivde our store in general for helping us grow our business and supp
GRAND OPENING ROD SENSE
nd Opening by Sam Wike
Omak, WA my very first reaction was, “Where on earth is Omak, WA?” I had not heard was pretty clueless as to why we had decided to do this. However, the puzzle pieces
th Erik. Erik and I have driven all night from Montana numerous times to many destinacan’t stand his style of music and the amount of Red Bull that he drinks irritates me; he o and have a Red Bull with him because it’s easier. Anyways, the Methow is “sick” and ited to fish and the Methow steelhead runs have been improving and open the past few hour I swung my first Washington steelhead. We then drove north and found countless
taff running our new fly shop and they are total fish heads. Stephan is the first guy we steelhead, him and I doubled up on Lahottan Cutthroat before work last week, and I got Greg brings a huge wealth of knowledge and guiding experience to the shop. He is the n the area forever. At first I stereotyped Greg as the type of guy that has guided his ng as fishing on redds with beads. Greg is awesome and he lights up when you talk to wants to get better and learn more. Greg is also a steelhead junky and guided me to 2 s limited out before work started and we were both on the shop floor by 8am; highlight who is a younger guy from Okanogan. I haven’t got much time to fish with Tanner yet to the guests displaying their fly tying creativity, and was very eager to get new customortunity in the fly fishing industry. I also want to make sure I mention our other fishing ng community in Omak and also great assets to the fishing team. Tom even has his own he night before the sale, and Calvin is pretty proud of himself for that night (I guess he e fly shop but they are backed by a whole team of great retailers led my Andy Keith the nd it takes a creative personality to manage one. I do want to say we are lucky enough
gen, Patty Arthur, and others came together from our other stores to make the event a Omak is quite possibly our fishiest fly fishing store out of all of them, and also our most
we have a solid team of employees to back it up. We are eager to learn from our customomers. So first, and foremost we want to thank everyone who stepped foot inside our port our employees and their families. We look forward to earning your business.
Jun 2012
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GEAR UP
$44999
This deluxe pontoon boat comes fully loaded and ready for action for your favorite pond, lake or river. Before now, features like this were only available on much more expensive boats. The High Adventure will set the standard for great value in pontoon boats for years to come. The High Adventure comes complete with a motor mount, framed battery well and an integral anchor system with our patented Line-Lock for easy anchor release and retrieval. Other standard features include a roomy cargo deck, side storage pockets, an effective stripping apron and 6’ breakdown oars. The frame is powder-coated steel and the pontoons are made from 18oz. PVC coated polyester with an internal vinyl bladder. There is no better value than the High Adventure! 2-year warranty. Capacity: 375 Lbs. Inflated Size = 96" Long x 55" Wide Shipping Size = 52" x 24" x 10" Shipping Wieght = 60lbs
Cam Buckle Straps make securing loads quick and easy! 1 inch color coded cam straps with ironed ends guard against frayed ends and allow for quick and easy insertion into buckle.
2’ >>>>>>>> $299 3’ >>>>>>>> $399 6’ >>>>>>>> $499 9’ >>>>>>>> $599 12’ >>>>>>> $699
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Jun 2012
About Salamander Paddle Gear Our products are thoughtfully created and assembled in Boise Idaho with a sense of pride and craftsmanship. Our employees are passionate individuals fueled by a love of whitewater, flat water and well.... any kind of water. We are extremely proud to produce products water enthusiasts the world over can depend upon.
GEAR UP
Konic
Konic delivers smart design and high performance in Lamson’s most affordable reel. The same, super-smooth, fully sealed conical drag system and stainless roller clutch used in their more expensive reels are matched with machined components and pressure cast ALDC12 aluminum alloy spool and frame. Konic is anodized then finished with a 100% solid polyurethane coating to resist gouging and abrasion. Affordable reels just got a whole lot better.
“ANGLER” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> $1999 “DOWNSTREAM” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> $2499 “GUIDE” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> $2499
starting at
Aspect Ratio: Large Arbor Physical Weight: light weight Materials: machined aluminum + pressure cast Finish: anodize + polyurethane coating Drag System: fully sealed conical drag
$11999
Mountain River Lanyards Mountain River Lanyards offers a complete range of quality, hand crafted fly-fishing lanyards and accessories. Their products are designed and built in Montana by people who work and play in the great outdoors. Every product is totally functional. Each lanyard is fully adjustable and for your safety has a break away piece built in. The tippet carrier is super cool and easy to use. The chamois cloth is there to dry flies and clean your sunglasses. Take one along on your neck's fishing adventure! Great Falls and Ponderay and Omak stores only.
“LOOP” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> $1999 “STILLWATER” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> $1499 "THE ANGLER" is one of their better selling lanyards. The design of this lanyard stands out among other options. The tippet dispenser is horizontal which gives you great leverage to pull against the spools. Its padded foam collar is comfortable and will take weight off your neck. This lanyard comes with a fly drying cloth, a clean four snap system for tools and a spring loaded clip to attach it to your shirt. The bead / foam design of this lanyard is light weight and exceptionally nice looking.
We reserve the right to limit quantities and correct printing errors. Prices are subject to change without notice. Some items limited to stock on hand. Prices quoted in US currency.
Jun 2012
9
GEAR UP
Men’s Long-Sleeved Island Hopper Shirt
Serene in the face of serious heat and always up for a cleansing dunk in the hotel sink, an Island Hopper is traveler's manna. Its ultralight blend of moisture-wicking 65% all-recycled polyester and 35% organic cotton ventilates well and provides 20-UPF sun protection; the light colors reflect the sun; with 2-button adjustable cuff, a straight hem and side vents. The oversized drop-in chest pockets (sized for a fly box, passport or both) with mesh vents can be accessed through the vertical reach-through opening while keeping the top flap secured. Patagonia recycles used soda bottles, unusable second quality fabrics and worn out garments into polyester fibers to produce many of their clothes.
$4995
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Jun 2012
Great Falls and Ponderay and Omak stores only.
We reserve the right to limit quantities and correct printing errors. Prices are subject to change without notice. Some items limited to stock on hand. Prices quoted in US currency.
GEAR UP
$4499 Simms Clothing Company is the leader in the fishing apparel industry. Simms' focus on providing functional, comfortable clothing for the outdoor industry has positioned them atop the market. Their fishing apparel has become a favorite of all anglers due to the aforementioned comfort and function; with a full line of fishing specific apparel they have the perfect product for even the most extreme weather conditions. The Surf Short has the aesthetic properties of your classic "board short" with the Simms touch. The 100% polyester fabric is water resistant with quick dying capability and UPF 50+ sun protection. The shorts feature two different pockets; one cargo style with flap enclosure and the other flat with a zipper that can be used for storing those important items. These shorts are part of Simms Sportswear collection that affords the ability to wear the clothing on and off the water; or in this case on,off, and in the water. The shorts are available in three colors: pewter, saltwater camo, and traditional camo.
Jun 2012
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SHOWDOWN
HIGH & DRY! Fly Floatant Showdown Ever wonder if you are using the best fly floatant? Big R Fly Shop is here to answer that question. We have to decided to put some of the top fly floatants in the industry to the test. Success on the water comes with trial and error, and we aim to help!
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Jun 2012
Performance (floatability): Price:
Bottle Design:
8 out of 10 ______ 7 out of 10 ______ 6 out of 10 ______
Overall Satisfaction:
8 out of 10 ______
Total Rating
29 out of 40 ______
Loon Outdoors Aquel / Gel Floatant Brand/Type: ____________________
&
Performance (floatability): Price:
Bottle Design:
8 out of 10 ______ 9 out of 10 ______ 9 out of 10 ______
Overall Satisfaction:
8 out of 10 ______
Total Rating
34 out of 40 ______
Fly’s Up / Dip Floatant Brand/Type: ____________________
%
Performance (floatability): Price:
Bottle Design:
10 out of 10 ______ 10 out of 10 ______ 10 out of 10 ______
Overall Satisfaction:
10 out of 10 ______
Total Rating
40 out of 40 ______
SHOWDOWN GEAR UP
'
Frog’s Fanny / Powder Floatant Brand/Type: ____________________
Each reviewee was given a rating card to measure how well each oatant performed for them. Based upon their ďŹ ndings, here is a breakdown of how each oatant scored in the showdown and which one was declared the overall winner. Comments:
Great for saturated ies and CDC. Applicator brush is nice, don’t apply in the wind. This stuff is interesting. It’s good for drying a saturated y. I usually use Aquel ďŹ rst. It is also good for emergers and nymphs. Gives them a subsurface glimmer or can oat them above a heavier y. Comments:
Great product for all dries. Tends to lose performance after a few ďŹ sh and doesn’t work well on saturated ies. Temperature stable so it doesn’t get runny. Nothing is perfect, but this is usually my go to oatant on the water.
Comments:
Best oatant on the market right now. Easy application (dunk ies in bottle). Don’t use with rubber legs and keep away from ame. Okay, maybe this is near perfect. You can pre treat or re-treat your y with this stuff and it will oat. Just dip it, false cast a few times and look for heads.
*PE[PIWW :MGXSV] Jun 2012
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EATERIES
The BongoBrew hut is a new staple in Ponderay for coffee and organic burritos, salads, and wraps. What started out as a small coffee stand has turned into a local hotspot, offering drive through service as well as indoor and outdoor seating in the café. All of the beans here are fair trade, organic, and roasted in house to a perfect medium blend. The BongoBrew beans pack a punch when made as espresso, but is perfectly at home in a drip machine or French press, not overwhelming but strong enough to enjoy all the flavors of the bean and the roast. I recommend an Americano, black, so you can get the full effect. But the BongoBrew isn’t all about coffee. They used to have a full service kitchen in the hut, but have recently expanded the family business into the cafe on the back of the property. They have a great menu that features vegan, gluten free sandwiches, wraps, salads, and burritos. Meat lovers need not fret though; you can get the veggie burger served with bacon. Give the namesake Bump N Bongo Burrito a try for breakfast sometime. It’s packed full of sausage, eggs, and seasoned potatoes, all organic and made fresh to order. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, the in house muffins and pastries fill the counter every morning. Other menu options include Vegetable Curry or a Mediterranean Wrap. Another unique option is the take home lasagna and pizza. Grab some fresh organic eggs and milk while you’re at it to enjoy later at home. Last, make sure you grab a glass of their special filtered water.. trust me.
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Jun Apr2012 2012
Owners Jonah and Megan really care about their business and how it impacts the local community, hosting open mic nights for musicians and poets, as well as the occasional in-house party. Don’t be surprised if you hear a hand carved didgeridoo being played by Jonah accompanied by some hand drums when you stop in for your next caffeine fix and The BongoBrew Hut and Earth Rhythms Café.
EATERIES
by Dustin Bise The BongoBrew Hut and Earth Rhythms CafĂŠ 830 Kootenai Cutoff Road Ponderay, ID 83852 (208) 255-4863
...and don't forget that Jimmy Houston said "This is the best burrito I have ever had."
Jun 2012
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SLUICE BOXES
A Creek RUNS
THROUGH It Sluice Boxes State Park
One hike through the mesmerizing Sluice Boxes State Park along the beaten trails and rising limestone cliffs that parallel Belt Creek will leave you breath taken and awe-stricken. If the canyon walls could talk, they would speak of it’s once pure eco-rich waters teeming with abundant amounts of trout and aquatic life, it’s plush mining history resulting from nearly a century of acid mining drainage that this “bygone” trout paradise is still recovering from today.
by John Ewald Photos by the author
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Apr Apr2012 2012
SLUICE BOXES
As I stood high up on the rocky cliff ledge just off the trail and the old railway with my fly rod in hand, I watched as a good size trout made methodical rises to insects as they passed by on the water’s apex. The kitchen table sized pool was large enough to hold dozens of trout, yet the only trout that seemed to take residency in the spot was the one I was watching from high above. It was then I began to think about how many others had stood here before me, before the toxic mining degradation and the catastrophic 1925 collapse of the Silver Dyke Mine’s impoundment dam near Neihart’s Carpenter Creek, a tributary to Belt Creek. The collapse sent a slurry of metal-rich tailings into Belt Creek throughout the entire stretch of the Sluice Boxes and eventually all the way down to where it unites with Missouri River. I wondered if fishermen had stared down below at the very same pool, as I am now, and saw dozens of plump trout stacked up, holding in the depths of the pool, bellies full from the plethora of aquatic insects they had gorged themselves on during an afternoon hatch. Referring to the area and the town of Monarch, MT, an article from the CASCADE COUNTY DIRECTORY AND GAZETTEER 1896 – 97 stated “Monarch is also noted for being a natural summer resort, furnishing the finest fishing in Montana. Belt Creek is well supplied with trout and whitefish, and the streams of Dry Fork, Tillinghast, Pilgrim, and Tenderfoot are literally full of trout and grayling. These streams being quite near Monarch, make it one of the pleasantest resorts of Montana, and it is much patronized by tourists”. Such a shame when I think about what the area once was and really could have had the chance to be today. How could these silver, lead, and ore hordes of the early 20th century be so careless and let such a wonderful trout haven become so corrupt? As years have passed and mining days have long gone, Belt Creek has and is continuing to bounce back from the wrath it had endured. Floods over the years have flushed out many of the metals that once had settled among the streambed’s sediment. Also, the combination of the limestone geology, the abundance of highly alkaline springs within the limestone, and the prolific tributaries contribute to the creek’s steady recovery. The calcium rich geology of the limestone not only enhance the growth of the aquatic insects, but also the swimming trout that feed on them amidst its currents. Jun 2012 Apr 2012
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SLUICE BOXES
I can only imagine how a day of fishing might have gone back then. Taking a ride on the “Fish Train” would have been a delight to experience. Beginning in 1914, fisherman from Great Falls would board the Sunday morning Great Northern train bound for the Sluice Box canyon. After a full day of fishing, the men and women would hop back on the evening whistle call back to Great Falls, creels full of trout. I’m sure 40 or 50 fish in an afternoon or evening was not uncommon. This went on for over 30 years until most of the mining efforts ceased and the tracks were pulled in 1945. I can see trout being overly eager to eat almost any fly that would be presented to them, due to the thriving insect activity. I wonder if the hatches I see today are as good as they once were. I sometimes feel lucky to see stoneflys in March, yellow sallies, mayflies and caddis in May and June and the various terrestrials in the summer and fall that survive from the healthy streamside vegetation. Though I am content with days when I’ll only catch a handful of average sized rainbows, browns and cutthroat and an occasional 18-inch or larger brown, I wonder what this creek was like when it was considered a trout paradise. The resiliency and tenacity Belt Creek has shown on its journey in recovery makes me wonder if the current state of this watershed is as good as it’s going to get, or if it has yet to reach a higher pinnacle, as it once was, untouched and pure. For now, I appreciate every trout I am fortunate to bring to hand, witnessing its beauty, eye to eye. I appreciate Montana Fish Wildlife and Park’s conservation efforts and the EPA’s willingness to focus on clean up plans. I am grateful the creek is what it is today and that it offers such beauty and magnitude in a remarkable area very close to my hometown.
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Jun 2012
SLUICE BOXES
Hatches March-April: Skwala Stonefly, Black Winter Stone, Midges, Blue-winged olives May-June: March Browns, Salmonflies, Goldenstones, Yellow Sallies, Caddis, Pale morning duns, Green Drakes, Brown Drakes July-August: Tricos, Caddis, Craneflies, Terrestrials, Spruce Moths September-November: Blue-winged olives, Mahogany duns, October Caddis, Midges
Belt Creek and the park it has carved its way through is a special place in terms of what it has done for me as an angler. I have spent countless days and nights, incessantly casting flys into its runs, riffles, pockets and pools. It has been a place of solace for me, a place to forget about life’s daily grind. Every returning trip gives me a feeling that is indescribable. It’s as if my soul has become dependent upon my return in order to sustain a healthy sense of well-being. All sense of time is lost when I step foot into the park and into the creek. Its trout, some being my first that I can remember on a fly rod, have a hold on me. They are strong, resilient, and continue to grow larger in healthier in size with each passing season. It’s history aside, just knowing the beauty it beholds, and the excellent trout fishery that it is, I hold this creek in high regards as the paradise it once was, today, in every denotation of the word. Jun 2012
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SLUICE BOXES
When
If You Go
Belt Creek is open all year from the Evans-Riceville bridge downstream to the confluence with the Missouri River.
(Excerpted from A Grand Little Canyon by Jeff Erickson, Montana Outdoors 2006)
The rest of the creek opens the third Saturday in May through November 30th
Montana FWP acquired Sluice Boxes State Park in 1974 and subsequently designated it as a “primitive” park. That means few amenities, rustic conditions, and unspoiled scenery.
From it’s headwaters above the town of Neihart, past Monarch, through the 8 mile canyon stretch in the Sluice Boxes state park, the best fishing occurs in the summer months of July through October. Pre run-off fishing can be excellent above Armington Junction a few miles southeast of Belt, MT. November tends to be a bit slower, but streamer fishing in some of the larger pools can be very productive.
Location: The primary entrance to Sluice Boxes State Park is at the Riceville Bridge, 8 miles south of Belt on U.S. Highway 89, then a half-mile west on the Evans–Riceville Road. (It’s also possible to access the upper park where Logging Creek Road crosses Belt Creek. However, there are no facilities here, parking is along the road, and visitors must take care to avoid adjacent private property.) Facilities: The only facilities are a parking lot, vault toilet, park map, and a trail following the abandoned rail grade into the park’s interior.
From mt.gov
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Jun 2012
Kayaking and rafting: The stream requires advanced rafting or kayaking skills. During high water in early summer, the Sluice Boxes can be a treacherous death trap for the unwary or inexperienced. And by midsummer, the water is often too low to float.
Hiking: Hiking is ava places. The trail is n topographic map, an
Reaching the centra When flows permit, miles and requires
Camping: There are visitors to pack out stewardship,” says M
SLUICE BOXES
ailable along the old rail bed. Park manager Colin Maas cautions that most of the old rail trestles are down, requiring hikers to scramble along rocky areas in not maintained and in many places requires crossing Belt Creek. Hikers should be in good shape and bring rain gear, footwear for stream crossings, a nd plenty of food and water. Also, hikers should watch for poison ivy.
al gorge on foot can be dangerous during spring runoff. Plan hikes into the Sluice Boxes from mid-July through October, when safe fords are more predictable. , the entire distance from Riceville to the Logging Creek Road bridge can be covered in a day. The canyon between the two bridges encompasses 7 1/2 river 12 fords.
no designated sites in the park, but backcountry camping is allowed by permit. Maas is trying to foster a leave no trace ethic among park users. He asks all garbage, camp away from the creek, and use stoves, fire pans, or grills rather than open fires. “Because the park is such a gem, it requires a high level of Maas. “We’re always looking for volunteers to help us keep it clean.”
Jun 2012
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TROUT CANDY
TroutCandy Hogans
rock n roller stone
Wikes
big r Bug 22
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killer
Jun 2012
any trou
Davies
ExplosiOn Ston
Phillipes
Flu FlU sho
ut with this ďŹ ne selection of SAVORY
synthetic morsels.
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TROUT CANDY
Tantalize
Smiths
Dominicks
dam MidGE MidGe
Bob Keiths
Transluscent pupa
Missouri River Special
Jun 2012
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FISH TALES
Fred’s Fishy Tales Stories by Fred Telleen
I can list many instances were a positive or happy-go-lucky outlook seems to draw in the big fish success. Gene Zeller is one of those guys with the right approach. Gene made his first fly-fishing trip to Alaska several seasons ago in September. He was traveling with a couple veterans of Alaska fly fishing. Gene is the type of guest that guides love. His expectations were simple. He wanted to have a good time with his friends, while trying to catch a few fish. He was a self-professed novice, just looking to learn and take it all in. On his first day, Gene landed quite a few fish, including one impressive male rainbow that was easily over 10lbs. I think it was safe to say that Gene was in awe of the Kenai River’s rainbows and Alaska fishing in general. Guides will tell you that attitude is everything when it came to catching fish. Gene’s attitude was spot on.
Spawning Sockeye
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Jun 2012
monster fish can make. I said, “Gene, I am going to need a bigger net and you need to start chasing that fish.” I dashed to the drift boat for my big Frabil rubber net. When I got back to Gene, he was still holding ground, watching his reel handle spin. I said, “Gene, if you want this fish, we are going to have to run, maybe all the way to the end of the island.
Triple Locked On the fourth and final day of Gene’s trip, we set up on what was to be our last stop. It was a perfect location at the top of a side channel, below a riffle full of spawning sockeye. The other three guys jumped out of the boat like commandos and spread out in the prime water. The slot was full of big voracious dollies and a few smaller rainbows. Gene let the other guys pick their water first and then asked me where he should go. I directed him toward the bottom of the prime run, noting that sometimes the bigger rainbows would be across from a particular tree, in a little bucket. I quickly got lost in a frenzy of netting fish. I eventually ended up in front of Gene, while helping his upstream buddy land a Dolly. Then I witnessed a swirl near Gene’s drift, followed by the explosion that only a
Nice Dolly We followed the fish along the bank, down a tall grassy bear trail. Then it was back to the water’s edge, slogging through sticky mud and over mounds of slippery dead sockeye. There were several treacherous log obstacles and one perilously fast channel to cross. I approached our quarry three times with the net, but there was no way he was letting me near enough to close the deal. He seemed completely unfazed by the meager pressure of 0X tippet. Twice, the fly line was caught on in-river obstructions, but I managed to wade
Runaway Rainbow out and clear it. As we neared the end of the island, I decided to attempt an ambush. Gene was getting tired and the fish was showing no give. We were running out of playroom. I slogged down to a deeper pocket I knew the fish would travel through. I figured if I got in the water and was dead still, he might swim close enough to me for a sweep of the net.
me like a missile. I ducked and he went over my head as I tried to avoid the line. Icy water soaked my chest. By the time I helped Gene across the cut, the badass fish was way into backing again. To make matters worse, the backing was folded over a submerged limb, way out in the channel. Gene was getting winded from the battle. I knew there was no way he could clear the line and continue. We had been chasing the fish now for 40 minutes. I said “Gene, if we are going to land this fish, I will need to take the rod and go get him.” I really wanted that fish in the net. I have never had a trout make me feel so helpless, foolish and downright mad. The thought of not landing him made me sick. I think Gene was relieved to give up the rod. He was more tired than the trout. I think he was more worried about letting me down then landing the fish. I can get a little intense when a truly large fish is on the line. I took the rod, eased up on the tension and waded to my chest. I found the snag and managed to kick the line loose without falling down in the current. Miraculously, the fish was still on. He had actually moved back upstream. As I picked up
Troutzilla
Slippery Sockeye I laid my trap and sure enough, Gene came around the bend following our rainbow. He swam right into the pocket where I was waiting. I was waist deep in a little hole where a small channel cut in. At first, I could not see the fish. Then I recognized his form and was getting ready for my move, when he erupted. I mean he exploded out of the water, coming straight at
FISH TALES
The
slack, he turned and bolted back down-river. He was soon heading out into the main channel and we were out of island. The battle was about over. In moments, the remaining backing would be gone and our connection would fail. For a second, I almost accepted that. Then, I decided to try one last trick. Sticking the rod tip all the way to the bottom, I eased up on the pressure and waited. The spool rotation began to slow and finally, it stopped. Gently, I began to retrieve line. It took fifteen more minutes to get it all back. I backed up to the point where Gene was now resting on a log. I handed him the rod with the fish he had hooked-up an hour earlier, still attached. Then I put that fish in the net. Jun 2012
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F3T IDAHO
Sandpoint Ida
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F3T IDAHO
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Sandpoint, ID F3T 2012 This year we had over 320 people attend the first annual showing of The Fly Fishing Film Tour at the Historic Panida Theatre in downtown Sandpoint, ID. The April, 20th showing energized the crowd creating a frenzy of fishing talk and plans for the upcoming spring and summer. Refreshments were flowing and people were happily donating their funds to the two benefactors of the film, Tri-State Water Quality Council and Trout Unlimited. Several items were donated by vendors to help with door prizes and bucket raffles. This year we gave away a Sage Fly Rod, two fully guided fishing trips, Redington Sonic Pro Waders, Costa Sunglasses, and a whole lot more. Beer was donated by Laughing Dog Brewing and Sandpoint, ID and both red and white wine was donated by Pend Oreille Winery located in downtown Sandpoint, ID. We could tell that Doc of the Drakes was the crowd favorite. It is the touching story of a retired doctor who now has Parkinson’s decease and his pursuit of large brown trout on Idaho’s famed Silver Creek during the brown drake hatch. The Doc almost misses the hatch due the hospitalization, but the drakes wait for the Doc and show him one of the best hatches he has ever seen. Of course I couldn’t bring the boys over here from Great Falls, MT and not show them some huge fish! We went fishing the next day and hook some very large, beautiful, wild rainbow trout. Next year were are planning on having a Film Festival weekend where we plan on showing the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) on Friday night and then showing the International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) on Saturday night. We are once again creating a collaborative effort with Trout Unlimited and Tri-State Water Quality Council. All proceeds will benefit both of these great organizations. We look forward to seeing you next year! Calvin Fuller Big R Fly Shop
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FLY TYING
CREATURE FEATURE
Keaten “Cornfed” LaBrel ties the Chubby Chernobyl MATERIALS: • Hook: Size 6 Streamer • Thread: 70D Tan • Tail: Tan UV Crystal Flash • Under Body: Golden Dubbing • Head/Thorax/Abdomen: Tan Foam • Wings: McFlylon Gray • Legs: Rubber Legs The Chubby Chernobyl is a good all-around attractor pattern that is typically fished as a stonefly or salmonfly. Forget fine leaders and delicate presentations with this dry fly. This is a big bug that splashes and plops onto the surface film. The Chub is one of the more popular attractor patterns, finding it’s place in fly boxes in Montana, Idaho and Utah. This is also an easy fly to tie that will float all day long. Try a variation in pink foam or mix and match any color you like.
Have you ever wondered how that Royal Wulff or Parachute Adams you use so much was tied or how to tie it? EMAIL US. We would be more than happy to tie up the pattern as close to the original as possible for your viewing pleasure. Describe the fly as best as possible or better yet, send along a pic of the fly and the name of it. Don’t forget to check out the fly tying section up on the Big R Fly Shop website HERE. We upload a new fly tying video weekly as our featured Fly of the Week, and the fly tying section continues to grow with some of our most popular fly patterns.
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Did you Know?! The Big R Fly Shop Website Provides Up-to-Date Info on : Area Waters, Fishing Reports and Stream Flows. UPDATE YOUR
MIND
NOW!
You Can Also Find Other Fun and Informative Info :
Photo & Video Galleries, Fly Fishing Destinations, Quick Tip Videos, Fly Tying Videos, Fly of the Week, Bug Blog and Upcoming News and Events!
MOLLY SEMENIK
Mem�ies in May
Eight women participated in the women’s fly fishing class taught by Mark Ozog and myself, Molly Semenik. Class was held May 5th and this year marked the 10th year I have been teaching a women’s class in Great Falls. The Missouri River Fly Fishers and Big R Fly Shop have been strong supporters from the get go.
I just knew that we were going to have a great time as soon as this year’s group of women sat down and started laughing and sharing bits and pieces about their reasons for coming. Soon after introductions, we got to work. It is amazing how much we covered in a one day class. Over the last 12 years, I have taught over 1000 women to fly fish. Every year I tweak something, usually trying to cut out what is not of the utmost importance. I can tell things are going well by the responses I get, “I really feel I could go out tomorrow and give this a try” or “this is so much fun!, “I really like this”. I will be back again next Saturday May 4, 2013. The day before on Friday May 3, I will again be teaching casting lessons and returning to Big R for “gear night” Friday evening. I did get a chance to fish the Missouri on Sunday--my goodness you have big fish in your beautiful river! Mark and I caught a March Brown (a Mayfly, size 14) hatch that I will always remember. We primarily caught them on dries but a cripple pattern worked as did a March Brown nymph (wet fly tied by Bob Jacklin) which was tied 18 inches off the bend of the hook (used a clinch knot). I always enjoy my visits to Great Falls. Hope to see you next year.
Molly Semenik’s 2012 Women’s Fly Fishing Class
Molly
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We have back issues!
Not those kinda back issues, previous issues you can read if you missed one!
» The bins are full of the newest winter tailwater fly patterns
MAY 2012
Farm Store Fly Fishing
MARCH 2012
A New Take on an Old Standard » New Gear Review: Hardy Reels
Chasing Skwalla
» At the End of winter, in Hot Pursuit
Killer Trout Candy
» Devistating Early Spring Flies
Farm Store Fly Fishing
We Mean Business in Omak
» Meet the Crew, The Third Big R Fly Shop is Now Open!
Freshwater Wolves
» Spring Pike Fishing is in Full Moon
Rod Sense
» Our Rod Inventory Makes Sense
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» Brief Bio: Who is Big R Store Manager John Teini? SLOTS STILL AVAILABLE BOOK TODAY!
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FLY FISHING OPPORTUNITIES:
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» We Review Renzetti and Regal Vises
• J A NUA R Y
WE ALL HAVE OUR VISES
Farm Store Fly Fishing
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» A Brief Q&A With Friends That Came Along
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